A message from our CEO from the ALGA National Conference - June 18

Published on 18 June 2018

A very chilly start to the day yesterday in Canberra with Mayor Mark Eckel and I walking the couple of kilometres to the National Convention Centre for a day's workshop at the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) Regional Cooperation & Development Forum, along with colleagues from 547 Local Governments from across Australia.

This year's forum brought together noted economists, researchers, government and industry experts to discuss the power of collaboration.

The forum launched the latest 21st State of the Regions report indicating insights into spatial change, economic growth, population and family structures, and key emerging trends in equality and inequality between regions.

We were also able to explore community engagement methods and tools.

A long day ... but worthwhile

The official opening of National Conference attracted about 850 colleagues from all communities across Australia. 

President of the ALGA, Mayor David O'Loughlin opened the conference, followed by a welcome address by Dr John McVeigh - Minister for Regional Development, Territories and Local Government.

Today will highlight Local Governments’ journey towards gender equity with a keynote address from Virginia Haussegger AM which Mayor Mark Eckel and I are looking forward to. Virginia is Director of 50/50 by 2030 Foundation.

At the end of today, we will join with other Councils from the Mallee to have discussions and dinner hosted by our Federal Member, Andrew Broad in the Parliamentary Dining Room.

The next three days will have 33 speakers to provoke ideas, and new ways of imagining futures for improving quality of life for all. 

Gerard José

CEO