The Assembly was officially opened by Her Excellency the Hon Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of Australia, who highlighted the vital role of civic leadership in fostering national resilience. Delegates were welcomed to country by Ngunnawal woman Selina Walker, acknowledging the traditional custodians of the ACT region.
Key themes of the Assembly included climate adaptation, with the launch of ALGA's "Adapting Together" report, and the evolving role of AI in local government. Delegates also participated in interactive listening sessions on housing, emergency management, workforce development, and road safety. These sessions provided valuable insights into shared challenges and opportunities for collaboration across all levels of government.
From left: Cr Libby Buckingham, Cr Alex Makin, Minister Kristy McBain, Cr Rod Hardy and Mayor Louise Crawford.
City of Port Phillip delegates met with Minister Kristy McBain to discuss financial sustainability, infrastructure, emergency management, and climate resilience. The Minister acknowledged the challenges councils face and highlighted potential support through federal programs.
The conference also featured an Expo with 77 exhibitors, connecting delegates to industry services across both the public and private sectors, and showcasing a wide range of information and products.
The Assembly concluded with a Ministerial Engagement Forum, where key issues such as funding flexibility, councillor remuneration, climate adaptation, and constitutional recognition for First Nations peoples were discussed. There was strong consensus on the need for increased support and recognition of local government's role in shaping Australia's future.
Port Phillip successfully passed two motions:
- Motion 75: Advocating for increased investment in urban active and public transport infrastructure.
- Motion 117.2: Calling for strengthened community services to enhance safety and social cohesion (in collaboration with Glen Eira and Merri-bek councils).
Both motions were carried without opposition, reinforcing Council's commitment to progressive, community-focused advocacy.
