Makin a splash! Mayor takes advocacy priorities to Canberra

This week, Mayor Alex Makin represented the City of Port Phillip at the Australian Local Government Association’s (ALGA) National General Assembly in Canberra. This annual conference brings together councils from all over the country to guide the strategic agenda for ALGA, highlighting issues that are important to the sector.

City of Port Phillip submitted four motions, all of which were passed during the Assembly. The motions involve key areas of advocacy including:

1. More federal funding for parks, community spaces and local infrastructure

Calling upon the Australian Government to create a dedicated funding program to help councils deliver the open space and community infrastructure that growing communities need.

2. A stronger national partnership to prevent and reduce homelessness

Requesting a coordinated national framework that funds practical, on-the-ground support such as early intervention, outreach services, local coordination and crisis infrastructure.

3. National action to strengthen social cohesion and combat racism

Calling for the Australian Government to lead and fund a coordinated national approach to addressing antisemitism, racism, hatred and bigotry in all forms through education, partnerships and local collaboration with local government.

4. Investment in infrastructure to support housing growth and urban renewal

Calling on the Australian Government to renew a national “Better Cities”-style partnership that will fund community and enabling infrastructure in high-growth areas. This includes roads, drainage, parks, sporting facilities, libraries, community hubs and other essential infrastructure needed to support growing populations and unlock new housing supply.

The NGA also provides a positive opportunity to share ideas, discuss various advocacy items and to meet with key stakeholders.

Mayor Makin met with Special Envoy for International Human Rights Mark Dreyfus MP, with Mayors from Glen Eira, Maribyrnong and Waverley to discuss social cohesion and how we can leverage local government to be the primary lever in addressing issues as the closest level of government to the community.

The Mayor also met with the Office of Jess Walsh MP, Minister for Youth and Minister for Early Childhood Education to discuss childcare in the City of Port Phillip and the critical role Council plays in the delivery of childcare services.

The Mayor also attended several roundtables and forums throughout the conference including a roundtable convened by the Australian Coastal Councils Association recognising that coastal erosion is a significant issue facing council and collective advocacy is required to to achieve greater outcomes for our community.

In a first for Port Phillip, the Mayor attended a session with the Council of Capital Cities Lord Mayors, reinforcing the national significance of Fishermans Bend as a source of new homes and employment opportunities. The City of Port Phillip looks forward to ongoing engagement with the Council of Capital Cities Lord Mayors and thanks ALGA for convening the National General Assembly.