Role of Local Government
Local government is one of the three tiers of government in Australia, alongside the State and Commonwealth Governments.
Under Australia’s federal system of government, some powers were given to the national government through the Australian constitution, state governments are empowered under State constitutions, while Victorian Councils are largely empowered under the Local Government Act (1989).
Under the Act, the “primary objective of a Council is to endeavour to achieve the best outcomes for the local community having regard to the long term and cumulative effects of decisions” .
Council strives towards this objective through different approaches: a significant role in many and varied local service delivery (e.g. libraries, childcare, delivered meals), infrastructure provision and maintenance (e.g. community centres, footpaths or streetscapes), strategic planning (e.g. land use), regulation and enforcement (e.g. permits), facilitation (e.g. economic development), representation and advocacy (e.g. social justice issues, lobbying for better public transport), community development (e.g. community grants program), and through partnerships (e.g. working with service providers to assist new migrants).
For more information about local government see the Victorian Government's Guide to Local Government or visit the websites of the three main local government peak bodies:
Further information
Julie Wyndham
Corporate Planner
9205 5090
Julie.Wyndham@yarracity.vic.gov.au
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