Yarra's Deputy Mayor, Councillor Sharon Harrison, attended the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) State Council on Friday 29 May. Council works closely with the MAV to address issues that affect all Victorian councils and bring shared benefit to our communities.
The State Council is held twice a year and is attended by delegates from each council who vote to set the MAV's policy agenda.
Three notices of motion were submitted by Council, all of which passed successfully. Council's three motions called for Victorian Government action on:
supporting local live music precincts, venues and artists;
'Activity Centre' councils retaining some decision-making powers and improving infrastructure contribution arrangements; and
accessibility on public transport for people living with a disability.
Council also voted in favour of motions that align with its Council Plan, Health and Wellbeing Plan, other supporting plans and policy positions. These included action on cost shifting, supporting councils to provide adequate infrastructure for growing communities, climate adaption, the importance of flood mapping and affordable housing.
Councils also emphasised the importance of action to improve social cohesion in our local communities, and the need for more investment in health and social services in relation to homelessness, mental health, the loneliness epidemic and neighbourhood houses.
"I'm proud to have the opportunity to represent the interests of our community at the State Council," the Deputy Mayor said.
"We're able to ensure that the MAV's policy agenda reflects the needs and wants of Yarra residents."
