So why do we need constitutional reform?

Including local government in the constitution is about recognising its role in Australia’s system of government and, more practically, about securing funding sources to deliver the services communities need.

Put simply, local government is an essential part of Australia’s system of government. Its contribution to our national wellbeing can be measured in economic and social terms, and more intangibly by the way it enhances our democratic way of life. It should be recognised in our national Constitution, alongside state, territory and Commonwealth governments.

In order to carry out its responsibilities, local government relies on a range of funding sources, including its own revenue measures, as well as grants from state and territory governments, and the Commonwealth. In 2009, a High Court decision (the Pape case) put into serious doubt the Federal Government’s ability to directly fund local government projects. ALGA believes that a constitutional referendum empowering the Commonwealth to directly fund local government, would put beyond doubt its ability to fund vital local projects.

Our campaign for reform will include local government stakeholders, as well as the community. We hope you’ll join us in this important campaign for constitutional reform.