2/6/04
The Western Australian Government and peak local government bodies have, today, signed a consultation and communication partnership agreement.
Local Government Minister Tom Stephens said the agreement would help ensure that important decisions at both levels of government are based on the best available information.
"A closer, more effective working partnership can bring better laws, services and infrastructure for all Western Australians," Mr Stephens said.
The Minister said the objectives of the Government's agreement with the Western Australian Local Government Association and Local Government Managers Australia included:
- enabling each sphere of government to have more effective input into the other's policy development, legislation, projects and decision-making which may impact on their operations or resources;
- improving communication on issues and initiatives to be included in the State Budget; and
- increasing discussion of, and development of, joint responses to Commonwealth policy initiatives or legislation, which may impact on both spheres.
"To make this agreement work, both sides have agreed to ensure that the information they provide each other is complete, objective, reliable, relevant and easy to understand," Mr Stephens said.
"Our consultation processes will have clear goals and be organised around best practice principles.
"Most importantly we both have to ensure that our consultation allows sufficient time for new ideas and proposals to emerge and be incorporated.
"This agreement builds on the Partnership Agreement signed in December 2002 and demonstrates the commitment that the partners have to developing positive working relations."
Cr Clive Robartson, president of the Western Australian Local Government Association said the agreement was a positive step forward in strengthening relations between both spheres of government.
"Both State and local government have recognised the importance of effective communication and consultation practices between our two spheres of government," Cr Robartson said.
"This new agreement will assist elected members and staff within State and local governments to understand and put into place meaningful communication and consultation in interacting at all levels.
"The success of the agreement will depend on a sustained commitment by both spheres of government to promote organisational cultures that value and support effective communication and consultation."
Cliff Frewing, divisional president of Local Government Managers Australia welcomed the new agreement and said the agreement represented a culmination of hard work to establish new consultation and communication protocols.
"The agreement should lead to improved effectiveness in the ways the State Government and local governments deal with major issues affecting the community," Mr Frewing said.
Minister's office: 9213 6500
