Local Government

There are 565 local governing bodies across Australia.

The Australian Government, through the Department of Regional Australia, Local Government, Arts and Sport contributes to the prosperity of the economy and the wellbeing of all Australians by assisting local governments to manage their own futures, including providing essential services and developing effective planning initiatives.

• Local Government Infrastructure Financing Review

  Minister Crean released the Ernst & Young report on infrastructure financing for local government titled ‘Strong foundations for sustainable local infrastructure: Connecting communities, projects, finance and funds’ on 18 June 2012.

• Constitutional Recognition of Local Government

  In September 2010, the Australian Government made a commitment to hold a referendum on recognition of Local Government in the Australian Constitution.

• Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program

  The Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program has made more than $1 billion available to local government authorities to build and modernise community infrastructure.

• Local Government Reform Fund

  The Local Government Reform Fund will help councils better manage their infrastructure and plan for future needs in their communities. Applications have now closed under this Fund.

• Australian Council of Local Government (ACLG)

  Link to the Australian Council of Local Government website.

• Financial Assistance Grants

  The Commonwealth provides financial assistance grants to local government under the Local Government (Financial Assistance) Act 1995. Details are provided in this section.

• Supplementary funding to South Australian councils for local roads

  Information on supplementary local roads funding for South Australian local governments.

• National Awards for Local Government

  The National Awards for Local Government recognise, reward and promote the innovative work of local governments across Australia.

• Development Assessment Forum

  Link to the Development Assessment Forum Homepage from this link.

• Australian Centre of Excellence for Local Government

  The Australian Government has contributed $8 million in funding for the Australian Centre of Excellence for Local Government to enhance professionalism and showcase innovation and best practice in the local government sector. The Centre will work with stakeholders to deliver services nationally, not only to urban areas but also to rural and remote Australia, including through online information.

• Local Government Publications

  View and print publications and maps about Local Government in Australia.