Newly appointed Minister for Local Government Wendy Tuckerman today welcomed her appointment to the key role, saying local councils were crucial to the State's economy and building stronger and more connected communities.
Ms Tuckerman said she looked forward to meeting with key local government stakeholders and collaborating with local councils to better serve local communities.
"Our 128 local councils employ more than 48,000 people, manage $178 billion in assets, and spend over $12 billion each year on providing infrastructure, facilities and services to local communities across the State," she said.
"The Government has worked hard over recent years to support local councils and communities through drought, bushfires, floods and COVID-19 and we will continue to work closely with them to drive locally-led economic recovery initiatives.
"My appointment coincides with the beginning of the new council term, with 1,259 newly elected councillors now preparing to take office across the State.
"I look forward to working closely with our councils as we continue to strengthen the performance, integrity and accountability of local government.
"One of my high priorities is to strengthen collaboration and engagement between State and local governments on the best ways we can support local councils to better serve their local communities now and in the future.
"As a former Councillor, Mayor and Administrator for 17 years, I am only too aware of what is required to do a good job at the level of government closest to the community.
"Our local councils play a vital role in local service delivery and I'm excited to work closely with them to deliver strong outcomes for NSW communities.
"I look forward to collaborating and engaging with local councils to identify further measures to strengthen and support them to provide the key infrastructure, facilities and services our local communities need.
"Over the coming months I will be meeting with local government peak bodies, joint organisations, and mayors and general managers from metropolitan, regional and rural councils to hear their views and concerns first hand.
"I am honoured to be appointed to this key portfolio and I will do all I can to ensure that councils are in the strongest possible position to support the communities they represent across the State."
