A new era of positive progress is emerging for Local Government as a result of the direct intervention of new Minister David Templeman.

The WA Local Government Association has congratulated Minister Templeman for calling a meeting of agencies and groups associated with the sector that focussed on positive change.

The meeting was attended by representatives from State Government Departments, the Corruption and Crime Commission, Public Sectors Standards Commission, Local Government Professionals and WALGA.

WALGA President Cr Lynne Craigie said the sector appreciated that Minister Templeman was adamant that he wanted progress on key issues without conflict and undue criticism.

“The Minister wants positive progress and that is exactly what the sector wants to hear and that is what is most likely to achieve real change,” Cr Craigie said.

“It is in stark contrast to the way the sector was treated by the previous State Government that made constant demands with scant discussion and unwarranted criticism.”

Cr Craigie said a key aspect of the new approach from Minister Templeman was the State Government’s support of a Partnership Agreement between the two sectors.

At the meeting Minister Templeman outlined that development of the Partnership Agreement was underway and would likely assist WALGA in supporting Councils at risk of governance breaches.

The Minister also committed to undertake the Elected Member training program offered by WALGA to gain a greater understanding of the governance support available to Councils.

“The Minister is also hoping to expedite the review of the Local Government Act that has been in place for more than 20 years and is well overdue for revision,” Cr Craigie said.

“It is encouraging for the Association to have a Minister that is enthusiastic about making positive change to the sector and wants to understand all perspectives.”