Wednesday 1 May 2024
A Parliamentary inquiry into local government funding and services has kicked off this week, with residents and local councils encouraged to make submissions.
Ms Benham said potential cost-shifting issues ranged from waste collection to school crossing attendants, and the repair of regional roads.
The Committee will investigate local government funding and service delivery in Victoria, including:
• Cost shifting from state and federal governments to local council;
• Ability of local governments to meet core service delivery objectives
• Local government’s revenue structure, as well as whether these structures are sustainable and appropriate; and
• Whether there are alternative models of funding to consider.
The inquiry was instigated by the Liberals and Nationals, in response to concerns from many local government areas.
“The Mildura electorate that I represent covers over 37,500 km2, and there are four local councils in the region,” Ms Benham said.
“I have met with councils across the region, and between state and local government it’s not always clear who pays for what, and how much each should pay.
“This inquiry will provide an important opportunity to examine what is working well and what can be done better.
“I encourage both local councils and residents to make submissions to the inquiry.”
Submissions are due by June 28, 2024 and can be made via the Legislative Council Economy and Infrastructure Committee’s webpage: Inquiry into Local Government funding and services (parliament.vic.gov.au)
You can also register to receive email updates for the inquiry on the committee’s website.