In June, representatives from our Member Councils and the Hunter JO attended the annual National General Assembly of Local Government in Canberra convened by the Australia Local Government Association (ALGA). This event provides Local Government with a unique opportunity to engage directly with the Commonwealth to advocate for policy change and their communities.
A group of Council representatives and the Hunter JO CEO, Joe James, attended a meeting with the Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, the Hon. Kristy McBain MP. This meeting focused on demonstrating the united voice of the Hunter region and advocating for our joint priorities that have been identified through consultation with our Board.
The group in attendance discussed the importance of leadership and support, especially by the Commonwealth, to give confidence to communities during times of economic transformation, to need to drive planning and investment in public transport networks, building resilience through competitive access to global markets and the experience of rural councils.
Regional development and employment is a priority for all of our Member Councils with particular focus on working with the Federal Government to become a global destination, and alternate mining land use and economic diversification in the Hunter to secure the economic future of the region.
The collaboration through the Hunter JO and continued advocacy will play a role in ensuring the region as-a-whole continues to thrive.