Federal Govt ‘welcomes partnership with ALGA’s new President’

Local Government Minister Mark Coulton has congratulated Linda Scott on her election as ALGA President, saying he looks forward to “a fruitful partnership in joint delivery of critical infrastructure and services benefitting all Australians”.

Meeting
with Cr Scott on the sidelines of the National Local Roads and Transport
Congress in Wagga Wagga, Minister Coulton said the widely respected City of
Sydney Councillor brings a wealth of experience to the high-profile national
role.

“Cr Scott’s
record of achievement on the City of Sydney Council speaks for itself, securing
funding for and delivery of essential community infrastructure,” Minister
Coulton said.

“Similarly,
Cr Scott has a stellar record of achievement as the current President of Local
Government NSW and as a Vice President of the Australian Local Government
Association.

“Today was a valuable opportunity to hear her constructive ideas for how our two levels of government can work even more closely together. I look forward to partnering with Cr Scott and the local government sector to rebuild the economy following Covid-19.”

“The
Liberal and Nationals Government’s community-led recovery plan empowers local governments
to deliver roads and community infrastructure through investment in
shovel-ready projects.”

Minister Coulton said there was no better example of this than the $1.5 billion Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.

“The Coalition understands the local government sector houses invaluable professionalism and expertise and is the closest level of government to the people it serves,” he said.

“I also look
forward to working with Cr Scott through mechanisms such as the Local
Government Ministers’ Forum with state and territory governments and ALGA,
which will ensure all levels of government are aware of the impact of COVID-19
on councils and are sharing ideas on how to respond.

“I am confident
Cr Scott will continue to represent the sector at the highest levels, as a member
of the new National Federation Reform Council, established following the
abolition of COAG.”