For Local Government, sustainability means a resilient local community and economy, a thriving environment, strong governance and a financially viable organisation. Sustainability is a principle to influence our decisions and activities to maintain and enhance our quality of life, now and in the future.
Local Government has a two-fold responsibility for sustainability;
1) to embed sustainability into organisational governance and operations (corporate sustainability),
2) to nurture communities that are thriving, prosperous and environmentally responsible (community sustainability).
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) constitute a set of 17 global objectives established by the United Nations in 2015, forming a core component of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. These Goals are designed to address a wide array of interconnected global challenges, including poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace and justice.
Australian Government
As a member state of the United Nations, Australia is dedicated to the global endeavour of achieving the SDGs by 2030. Australia delivered its first Voluntary National Review in 2018.
State Government
The State Government provides annual updates to track Environment and Social Governance (ESG) progress and align budget expenditure with the SDGs through the Supporting Continuous Improvement in ESG Outcomes for Western Australia report.
Local Government
Local Governments across Western Australia are actively contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). While some have formally integrated the SDGs into their strategic frameworks, every Local Government is making an impact. WALGA has developed the Localising the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals document to highlight the valuable contributions of Local Governments to achieving the goals.
The report:
- Maps Local Government actions to each of the 17 SDGs.
- Showcase brief case studies of relevant initiatives.
- Acknowledges the diverse ways Local Governments contribute, whether through direct service delivery, partnerships, advocacy, or funding.
This document aims not to prescribe action, but to highlight and celebrate the valuable contributions of Local Governments, while inspiring fresh ideas through the exchange of successful practices.
WALGA acknowledges that this document may not capture every initiative undertaken by Local Governments. The content of this publication has not been approved by the United Nations and does not reflect the view of the United Nations or its officials or Member States.
