Annual Report 2009/10 - cuccoviadesign.com · Facilitating Research and Development ... Local...

LGA ANNUAL REPORT 1

Annual Report 2009/10

CONTENTS

LGA State Executive Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

President’s Report - Mayor Felicity-ann Lewis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Chief Executive Officer’s Report - Wendy Campana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Focusing on Outcomes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Representing Local Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Providing Leadership and Building Capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Improving Finance, Infrastructure and Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

Encouraging Participation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Monitoring LGA Enterprises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

Facilitating Research and Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

Managing LGA Governance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

The 2009/10 LGA Annual Priorities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Representatives on Local Government and Outside Bodies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Financial Statements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

LGA Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

LGA Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

LGA SEniOR ExECuTivE COMMiTTEE

LGA STATE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE – 1 JULy 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

Mayor Felicity-ann LewisLGA President

Mayor Joy Baluch AM LGA Immediate Past President

Wendy CampanaLGA Chief Executive Officer

LGA STATE ExECuTivE COMMiTTEE - Members and Proxy Members

Mayor David O’LoughlinLGA Vice President

Mayor Ivan BrooksLGA Vice President

Mayor John TrainerLord Mayor Michael Harbison Cr Jill Whittaker Cr John Pinto

LGA ANNUAL REPORT 3

Mayor James Maitland LGA Vice President

Mayor Jim Pollock LGA Vice President

Mayor Robert BriaMayor Gillian Aldridge Cr Richard Vickery Mayor Kym McHugh

Mayor Peter Davis Cr Leon Stasinowsky Mayor Ian Mann OAMMayor Ray Agnew OAM

LGA STATE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE – 1 JULy 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

LGA ANNUAL REPORT 4

inviTED OBSERvERS

LGA STATE ExECuTivE COMMiTTEE - Members and Proxy Members (Continued)

Proxy – Mayor Mark Braes Proxy – Mayor Mary-Lou Corcoran

Proxy – Mayor Julie Low

Acting PresidentLocal Government Managers

Australia (SA Div):Cate Atkinson (Playford)

from May 2010

Convenor Metropolitan Local Government Group

CEOs CommitteeHelen Dyer (Mitcham)

from May 2010

Proxy – Mayor Allan Arbon Proxy – Cr Raelene Telfer

Proxy – Cr Davina Quirke Proxy – Cr Carolyn WiggProxy – Cr Peter Jamieson

Proxy – Mayor Allan Aughey

LGA ANNUAL REPORT 5

PRESiDEnT Mayor Felicity-ann Lewis (Marion)

iMMEDiATE PAST PRESiDEnTMayor Joy Baluch AM (Port Augusta)

viCE PRESiDEnTSMayor Ivan Brooks (Mitcham)Mayor David O’Loughlin (Prospect)Mayor James Maitland (Wakefield Regional)Mayor Jim Pollock (Whyalla)

ZOnE / REGiOn REPRESEnTATivES & PROxiES

LGA STATE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

1 JuLy 2009 TO 30 JunE 2010

Adelaide Metropolitan Mayor Ivan Brooks (Mitcham)Lord Mayor Michael Harbison (Adelaide)Mayor John Trainer (West Torrens)Mayor David O’Loughlin (Prospect)Cr Jill Whittaker (Campbelltown)Cr John Pinto (Charles Sturt)Mayor Gillian Aldridge (Salisbury)Mayor Robert Bria (Norwood Payneham and St Peters) up to February 2010Proxies:Cr Davina Quirke (Burnside)Cr Peter Jamieson (Port Adelaide Enfield)Cr Carolyn Wigg (Walkerville)Cr Raelene Telfer (Marion)

Central Zone Mayor James Maitland (Wakefield Regional)Mayor Ray Agnew OAM (Yorke Peninsula)Proxy: Mayor Allan Aughey (Clare & Gilbert Valleys)

South East Zone Cr Richard Vickery (Tatiara)Proxy: Mayor Mark Braes (Wattle Range)

Southern & Hills Zone Mayor Kym McHugh (Alexandrina)Proxy: Mayor Mary-Lou Corcoran (Victor Harbor)

Spencer Gulf Cities Zone Mayor Peter Davis (Port Lincoln)Proxy: vacant

Eyre Peninsula Zone Mayor Jim Pollock (Whyalla)Proxy: Mayor Julie Low (Lower Eyre Peninsula)

River Murray Zone Cr Leon Stasinowsky (Loxton Waikerie)Mayor Ian Mann OAM (Mid Murray)Proxy: Mayor Allan Arbon (Murray Bridge)

inviTED OBSERvERS

Convenor Metropolitan Local Government Group CEOs Committee:Jeff Tate (Onkaparinga) up to May 2010Helen Dyer (Mitcham) from May 2010

President Local Government Managers Australia (SA Div):Cate Atkinson (Playford) from May 2010 (Acting President)Huxley Lawler (Burnside) from Oct 2009 up to May 2010Mark Withers (Charles Sturt) up to Oct 2009

It’s yet another example of how

Councils working together through

the LGA can help resolve issues

through our own effort.

Mayor Felicity-ann Lewis - LGA President

LGA ANNUAL REPORT 7

The 2009/10 year raised many challenges for Local Government . I am proud to say we met these head on and we continue to lead the way in responsiveness, innovation and provision of services to our communities .

We continued to work strategically to improve Local Government’s capacity to deliver for communities – often in partnership with other governments . It has certainly been a year of personal growth for me and I have relished the role of LGA President which has given me the opportunity to meet with many Elected Members and senior Council staff to discuss issues within and beyond Council areas .

I would like to start my report by thanking my State and Senior Executive Committees and particularly my Vice Presidents, Mayors James Maitland, Ivan Brooks, David O’Loughlin and Jim Pollock and Immediate Past President, Mayor Joy Baluch .

I would also like to acknowledge the professional and unwavering support that I have received from our CEO Wendy Campana and her team at the Secretariat and I am sure that I speak on behalf of all South Australian Elected Members and Council staff when I recognise the tremendous assistance that we receive from the Secretariat .

To my own Council, the City of Marion, thank you for the support you have shown me in my role as the President of the LGA – including on occasions people fulfilling my Mayoral duties . I could not perform these duties without your goodwill and assistance .

My husband Warren and my boys, thank you for the understanding and support .

My report will highlight some key achievements of the year for the Association, which could not have been achieved without the dedicated support and enthusiastic responses from our Member Councils .

The State election in March 2010 provided an opportunity for Local Government, through the LGA, to raise the importance of partnerships

between State and Local Governments for our communities . Our election strategy was carefully planned and executed and at the State level the major political parties and independents ‘sat up and took notice’ .

The effectiveness of the campaign positioned us in the media at a far higher level than any of the other State-level bodies . The on-line campaign site, with its wall of cameo messages by Mayors, Chairpersons or their proxies provided much interest with more than 3,000 hits on the site . Thank you to those involved for this support as it is the partnership between the LGA and Councils which is most powerful at such times .

We set out to meet with every Minister following the State election and had met with more than half by the end of the financial year, and it is clear to me that the Government’s commitment to open communication with the LGA remains recognised at the highest level .

In June 2010, I was elected unopposed as Vice President of the Australian Local Government Association and it will be my privilege to assist President Cr Geoff Lake with the national agenda for Local Government . I believe it recognises the important role the LGA plays in SA on national issues .

We have seen the Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program pump more than $7 .3 million into the South Australian economy during 2009/10 and assist Councils to complete important local projects . The program was good for communities, good for Local Government and good for jobs .

The Federal Government’s announcement of $19 .2 million for the National Water Security Plan for Cities and Towns program was a significant coup, particularly for the 18 Councils that received $7 .2 million for 29 projects which were brought together with the support of the LGA .

The issue of the independent setting of Council Member allowances was finally resolved by the State Parliament in November 2009, after years of LGA lobbying . This is another example of the LGA, with Council support, working

PrESIdENT’S rEPOrT

Mayor Felicity-ann Lewis

LGA ANNUAL REPORT 8

slowly and steadily to achieve an objective with Government support .

We now also have another example of other governments applying higher standards to Local Government than to themselves with the formal legal application of caretaker arrangements for Council elections . I don’t take issue with the provisions, but I think it does highlight a tendency for government to respond to any debate about behaviour in Local Government by reaching for the legislative ‘lever’ . We need to ensure that the tendency for media to take issues of Local Government performance to State Government does not result in over-regulation for Councils and unnecessary added costs for ratepayers .

The LGA’s consultation and communication processes with Member Councils are vital to the operations of the organisation and we recognise the amount of effort Councils put in to answering surveys and providing feedback on issues affecting Local Government . It is vital to our lobbying and leadership efforts .

As promised early in my Presidency, the CEO, or senior staff in her absence and I have been to many Council meetings – meeting with Council Members and staff on their home turf . Thank you for your generosity in helping me to understand your issues on the ground . I will continue these meetings during the remainder of my term of office .

On behalf of Councils the LGA strongly lobbied the State Government for recognition of the policy role of Council Members in relation to implementation of the 30-year Plan for Greater Adelaide, to ensure appropriate mechanisms are in place for their input . Having achieved an agreement on this we anticipate similar mechanisms will be incorporated in regional plan implementation processes as they are developed . Planning legislation and State processes need to reinforce early and proper consultation processes with communities and not make Councils responsible for truncated or inadequate consultation requirements .

I am pleased that Councils have embraced the LGA Governance Panel as an independent

mechanism to review Councillors conduct issues . It’s yet another example of how Councils working together through the LGA can help resolve issues through our own effort .

In May 2010 the LGA established the Independent Inquiry into the Management of Trees on Public Land, to address a growing number of issues triggered in part by extended drought conditions . The inquiry will undertake a community and stakeholders consultation process and finalise its report to us by the end of 2010 .

During the 2009/10 year the LGA again staged its Annual General Meeting in October and the General Meeting and Showcase in April . We have set a very high standard in our major events and I believe we maintained this standard during the year . In particular, the April Showcase under the title ‘Discover!’ saw more than a third of Councils participate in the speaking program and another 11 Councils take part in the impressive exhibition, showcasing their initiatives, projects and service delivery . In the Year of Women in Local Government it was very pleasing to see that more than half of the Showcase presenters were women . The entire event was a great success .

This year we saw Councils involve community representatives and a journalism student from the University of SA attended, but I would like to find more ways to ensure others are able to see the really good things that Councils are doing on so many different fronts at this event .

The LGA instituted a five year program during which time all Councils will undertake an independent governance assessment as part of the Good Governance Assessment Program . The program recognises that the governance standards and performance expected of Councils by the community continues to rise . Eleven Councils completed their assessments and had them reviewed by independent validators . The overall report of the validators can probably be summarised as ‘good but can do better’ and we need their detailed feedback to guide improvement efforts in Councils and for the LGA’s training and support programs .

LGA ANNUAL REPORT 9

In August 2009 I held a President’s Forum, attended by Council Members and staff, to look at the LGA Constitution, which provided valuable feedback for the development of a new document to replace the current outmoded Constitution . The General Meeting in April 2010 endorsed the new Constitution .

2010 celebrates the Year of Women in Local Government (YoWiLG), to increase women’s participation both as Elected Members and Council employees . South Australia contributed four of the 21 Australian Ambassadors to YoWiLG, a strong recognition of South Australia on the national stage . Congratulations to Jane, Tanya, Angela and Rebecca on this recognition .

I became aware of the LGA relatively early in my involvement in Local Government but I continue to be amazed at the breadth of its agenda and the many ways it supports Councils .

The LGA is now central to the very work that we do in Councils for our communities . From contracting processes for electricity purchase, education and training, the waste-water management program, our regulatory services program, and lobbying State and Federal Governments for a better deal for South Australian communities, and the work done by its Mutual Liability, Workers’ Compensation and Asset Mutual arrangements, Councils are effectively now working together on a wide range of areas and issues .

The Association is recognised at the national level for its innovation and many of the models designed by the LGA in SA are now in play interstate .

The LGA Education and Training Service has expanded the range of courses it offers for Council Members in particular and I am pleased to see attendance at residential and short courses offered for Councils . It is vital that Members continue to demonstrate we understand the demands of our role and that we are prepared to continue to upgrade our skills and knowledge .

A strong recognition by Councils of the benefits of working together in this changing

environment is likely to place ongoing demands on the LGA . The State Executive Committee instigated a review of fee for service arrangements offered by the LGA to ensure the organisation can continue to meet Council demands . We also made a bold decision to secure new premises for the organisation after 30 years in Hutt Street . The new building in Frome Street has two floors tenanted and therefore provides room for future consolidation . The ultimate goal will be to have Local Super, the Local Government Finance Authority and related organisations all housed in the one location .

The State Executive Committee ensured a due diligence process to ensure the building could be secured without any call on Councils and believes we made the right decision at the right time . I’m pleased to say that the new meeting rooms are far more flexible for the many meetings involving Council representatives which are hosted by the LGA – and for training courses and events . The building is also far more environmentally friendly than our old premises .

The work of the regional Local Government Associations, the Metropolitan Local Government Group and the South Australian Regional Organisation of Councils continued to underpin the work of the sector and assisted in the coordination of programs between the LGA and our 68 Member Councils .

2009/10 represented another year of productive change and growth in Local Government and I would like to thank Councils for their continued support and encouragement .

My report would not be complete without offering sincere thanks to our 739 Council Members who give their time for their communities, often serving on outside boards, commissions, authorities and committees as well as on community level organisations . To each and every one of you my thanks for your continuing work for your communities and I look forward to working with you in the future and for the future of Local Government and our communities .

For me, one of the key indicators

of our success has been the acknowledgement

of our work and professionalism by

other spheres of government.

Wendy Campana - LGA Chief Executive Officer

LGA ANNUAL REPORT 11

2009/10 has been a challenging year for Local Government facing legislative changes, a Council Ministerial inquiry, significant planning and development changes and a State election on top of ongoing infrastructure, finance, management, environmental, economic and social demands – along with preparations for a Federal election and Local Government elections . During the year we also undertook a significant review of the LGA with a primary focus on fee for service offerings to Councils and the Secretariat’s capacity to respond to Member’s needs .

The job of the LGA Secretariat is to provide sound policy and governance advice to the LGA State Executive Committee, President, General Meetings and the other structures established under the LGA Constitution and to implement their decisions within the resources provided . I am pleased to say I believe the Secretariat delivered on its responsibilities in the face of these challenges and worked with a significant review to ensure we can continue to deliver in the future .

I need to say up front that neither I nor other staff could deliver on these issues without substantial support from CEOs and senior staff of Councils both directly and through their professional bodies both formal and informal (too numerous to mention) . I want to place on the record my appreciation for the support you provide to the LGA which is a crucial element of advancing Local Government in this State for the benefit of communities .

I must also express my appreciation for the respect shown by Elected Members for the work which we do – within a sound governance framework . I believe the LGA State Executive Committee Members and LGA office bearers are encouraged to question our advice and performance . It is, I believe, a healthy, constructive and responsive environment .

These factors are essential for success – which is why we work to maintain them – and during the year we’ve had a number of successes . A range of these will have been highlighted by the President and are outlined more fully in this

annual report . They include finally seeing the Parliament introduce an independent process for setting Members allowances and a very strong State election campaign .

For me, one of the key indicators of our success has been the acknowledgement of our work and professionalism by other spheres of government . In one instance – the Federal Local Government Reform Fund – this has delivered significant resources and a strong desire to use skills and knowledge built within the LGA to apply in other States . The past five years of work on asset management and financial sustainability is starting to be noticed in other arenas .

I have also been pleased at how the LGA’s Education and Training Services, the Research and Development Scheme and our Industrial Relations services are being relied upon by Councils for support and leadership . Our capacity as a State to identify a current or future challenge, to research and develop a strategy to meet the challenge and then to implement the strategy is relatively strong .

There is nothing more certain than the emergence of new challenges and ongoing demands for us to meet higher standards of service, governance and management for communities .

With 2010 being the Year of Women in Local Government, I have seen a willingness to identify and find ways around any remaining barriers based on gender in our sector – combined with a healthy concern for ensuring merit remains the over-riding principle for advancement . It was pleasing to see the Women in Local Government Strategy and the Women’s Strategy Framework finalised after almost three years of preparation between the unions, the Australian Local Government Women’s Association, the Local Government Managers Australia and the Office of State/Local Government Relations .

The year has also seen substantial increases in efforts to raise governance standards with the establishment of the LGA Governance Panel to

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICEr’S rEPOrT

Wendy Campana


assist Councils to review conduct issues, the Good Governance Assessment Program being well under way and with some substantial improvements to our Regulatory Services Program . Governance issues require constant management by Councils and are areas where even small failures can cause significant damage to our reputation in the eyes of the media, other governments and the public .

The President has outlined some key intergovernmental developments and I believe the structured support we have provided to her in meetings with Ministers after the State election has provided a sound basis to continue to improve State/Local relations . We are certainly not able to resolve all issues at once but I have a sense that we are making solid advances and not taking a step forward in one area and a step back in another . I believe we have also been able to progress issues in such a way that the State can see the benefits of working strategically with us .

I am sure that the next State Budget and the work of the Sustainable Budget Commission will test the strength of State/Local relations . I am hopeful that the relationship will prove stronger than any short-term quick fixes .

Our relationship with the other key State level enterprises working for Local Government also deserves a mention . The LGA Workers Compensation Scheme, LGA Mutual Liability Scheme, Local Super and the Local Government Finance Authority all continue to deliver for Councils and to work hard to ensure they can keep delivering in the future . Late in the year we absorbed Local Government Corporate Services with a review to further improve purchasing and commercial services for Local Government .

It has been a pleasure to work with such a dedicated team of staff as we have in the LGA . In particular the open approach to our Review and Renewal of Organisational Capacity and Services has shown a focus on strengths and flexibility . I believe the outcomes of the review being implemented in the second half of 2010 will deliver a new dynamism in the LGA for the next three to five years .

I should also mention the superb support for our shift in office locations from Hutt Street to more modern and environmentally friendly accommodation in Frome Street . We undertook the search for a new home carefully and took advantage of market conditions for the long-term benefit of Local Government and with no call on members . The change in location was managed seamlessly and our new premises are more functional – particularly for Council staff and members through our new meeting and training rooms .

I want to place on record my appreciation for the professional relationship I have had with your President, Mayor Lewis . I believe we have delivered a strong team approach to leadership, intergovernmental representation and to policy development and look forward to continuing to work with her .

Finally I must once again thank each and every staff member of the LGA . The level of commitment to excellence is something which continues to show as we work to support Councils all the way from advising on ALGA meetings with Prime Ministers, through to arranging training courses for general inspectors and responding to public enquiries . It gives me great pride to lead such a dedicated team .

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICEr’S rEPOrT


FOCUSING ON OUTCOMESThe LGA supports Councils in SA in a variety of ways, supported by subscriptions and by user pays fees in a variety of areas . As demands on the LGA from Councils have grown the LGA State Executive has increased the efforts it has placed on assessing priorities for application of resources available to the LGA . It does this through having a medium to long-term strategic plan and a shorter listing of annual priorities updated each year . In addition during this year the LGA instituted a review with a specific focus on user pays service demands on the LGA and ensuring the organisation can support changing demand for such services and maintain core services (Review and Renewal of Organisational Capacity and Services) .

The annual priorities set for 2009/10 can be found later in this annual report . Report topics are grouped under the following broad headings consistent with both the annual priorities and the strategic plan (which are now aligned): Representing Local Government; Providing Leadership and Building Capacity; Improving Finance, Infrastructure and Resources; Encouraging Participation; Monitoring LGA Enterprises; Facilitating Research and Development; and Managing LGA Governance .

rEPrESENTING LOCAL GOVErNMENTintergovernmental RelationsIn 2009/10 the LGA undertook a major effort to raise the profile of Local Government issues at the State level, particularly through a strong State election campaign, direct briefings of politicians and their advisors on significant issues and working meetings with key departmental officers . A separate comment on the State election strategy and outcomes is provided overleaf .

The President of the LGA continued to meet with State Government Ministers with an intensive round of post-election meetings held between April and June 2010 . This has provided the opportunity to progress relevant campaign commitments with the returned Labor Government . Included in these commitments are a review of the State/Local Government Relations Agreement and the Minister’s State/Local Government Forum . High-level officer contact was also maintained with the Government and Opposition Members by the Secretariat and by representation on various statutory committees (refer Representatives on Local Government and Outside Bodies on page 41) .

The LGA continued to develop its relationships at the Federal level, through the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) and directly with Federal Ministers . The LGA’s membership on the board of the ALGA has kept us keenly involved in the direction and substance of issues that are important to South Australian Councils . The LGA was also involved in directly supporting South Australian Mayors and Chairpersons at the meetings of the Federal Government’s Australian Council of Local Government .

The direct relationship with Federal Ministers, developed by the LGA, has also created opportunities for the LGA and SA Councils to gain attention on South Australian issues and in their applications for Federal funding . The LGA has also been successful in securing Federal funding from the Local Government Reform Fund to work with South Australian Councils on a range of effectiveness and efficiency improvement projects .Local Government House at Frome Street.


Federal Election StrategyAs a part of its intergovernmental relations strategy the anticipated Federal election in late 2010 provided an opportunity for the LGA to complement the ALGA in its national campaign to position Local Government on key issues . Work commenced in late 2009/10 to gather the views of Councils on their key issues for a Federal campaign . Local Government in SA is taking a lead in collaboration and cooperation across all spheres of government, and we want to enhance collaborative activities with the next Federal Government to deliver for communities in SA, and indeed across Australia .

State Election Strategy The LGA Senior Executive Committee, through a delegation by the LGA State Executive Committee, was the ‘campaign manager’ of an intensive campaign leading up to the State election, in March 2010 . The aim of the campaign was to ensure that Local Government’s voice and issues were ‘heard’ effectively during the State election campaign . The campaign aimed to focus media attention on Local Government issues, in the metropolitan as well as in regional areas and to enhance the LGA’s position as a key peak body in South Australia . The overarching theme of the campaign was ‘Our Part of SA – Playing Our Part’ and was supported by specially created branding .

In a high profile and highly successful campaign, the LGA produced Strategic Overview and Commitments documents as well as four supporting blueprints highlighting core issues for Councils and their communities – Quality Neighbourhoods, Growing Opportunity, Green Living and Strong Foundations . In addition, using a specially created website the LGA added an electronic component to its strategy . This involved short ‘cameo’ videos by Mayors, Chairpersons, or their delegated representatives, speaking directly on issues of concern to their communities .

Council Member Allowances After years of LGA lobbying successive State Governments for an independent process to set Council Member Allowances, amendments to the Local Government Act 1999 were made by Parliament in late 2009 which came into effect in early 2010 . These amendments will see the Remuneration Tribunal determine the allowances for all Council Members before the November 2010 Local Government elections . Following consultation with Councils, the LGA prepared a comprehensive submission to the tribunal detailing the operations of Local Government in South Australia and providing the context for the tribunal to consider submissions from individual Councils, Council Members and other interested parties .

Local Government Elections Promotion Late in 2009 the LGA convened a committee involving the Electoral Commission of SA, the Office of State/Local Government Relations and representatives of the Local Government

Your neighbourhood means the world to you - Local Government election campaign.

‘Our part of SA - playing our part’ - State election campaign.


Communicators Network, with a focus on planning election promotional activities . The group worked on a single strategy in which the roles of the Electoral Commission and the LGA would be complementary . The theme ‘Your Neighbourhood means the World to You’ with three sub-themes, ‘Your Park’, ‘Your Street’ and ‘Your Library’ underlined the importance of community assets . A workshop for Councils was conducted in June and the strategy finalised for implementation later in 2010 .

Council Amalgamations/Boundary Reform In early 2010 the LGA commissioned a research project titled ‘Options for Consolidation in Local Government: A Fresh Look’ to be undertaken by the Australian Centre of Excellence for Local Government (ACELG) . This research project is intended to obtain ‘evidence’ of the real outcomes of Council amalgamations, not just focusing on the financial outcomes but balancing the claimed economic benefits of consolidation with a more detailed examination of democratic, representational and governance aspects .

This research project has international participation, involving Local Government NZ, and is expected to be complete late in 2010 . The LGA agreed to the allocation of $60,000 from the Local Government Research & Development Scheme towards the project .

ALGA and the Australian Constitution The ALGA continued to work closely with the Federal Government on a range of issues including the ongoing need for infrastructure funding – met in part through the Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program . The LGA has maintained strong support to its representatives on the ALGA Board, LGA President, Mayor Felicity-ann Lewis, the LGA Immediate Past President, Mayor Joy Baluch and alternates Mayors David O’Loughlin and James Maitland, and to SA delegates attending the ALGA’s National General Assembly in Canberra . Mayor Lewis was elected as a Vice President of the ALGA in June 2010 .

In June 2010 the Federal Government announced a grant of $250,000 to the ALGA to assist it to promote awareness of issues relevant to updating of the Australian Constitution . This work will focus on ways to strengthen the Federation by enabling stronger relationships between governments .

Recreation and Sport During the year the LGA engaged with the State Government to facilitate a more strategic relationship regarding recreation and sport including management of infrastructure . An LGA submission was also provided in support of the Federal Government ‘Crawford’ report which suggested a shift in the balance of Federal support from elite to grassroots recreation and sport . This concept also played a major role in our State election 2010 strategy and received a significant take up in the media and with other stakeholders including Sport SA . Currently Councils contribute almost 12% of their annual budget to recreation and sport making up almost $155 million each year .

Planning ReviewReforms to the State’s Planning and Development system remained very much at the forefront of the LGA’s work agenda during the past 12 months . Councils contributed strongly to the reform process, both through the LGA and individually .

A key component of work related to the continued implementation of reforms to streamline development assessment processes, including a review, jointly undertaken by the LGA and the Department of Planning and Local Government, into the operation of the Residential Development Code a year after its introduction . The LGA was also involved in the preparation of a number of submissions concerning proposals to amend legislation such as those regarding the significant tree provisions under the Development Act .

One of the most important initiatives in terms of reform to the State’s Planning Strategy was the release in July 2009 of the draft 30-year Plan for Greater Adelaide (the Plan) . The LGA was closely involved in facilitating a consultation


process for Councils in the Greater Adelaide Region, and in the preparation of a detailed submission to the Government in response to the draft Plan . Key issues for Councils included funding and planning of infrastructure, sustainability and governance arrangements for implementation of the Plan . These matters have continued to be a significant focus of interest to the Local Government sector since the Plan was officially adopted by the State Government in February 2010 .

The LGA strongly lobbied the State Government to acknowledge the need for a true partnership with Local Government to effectively deliver the targets in the Plan, and the necessity to engage and get commitment from all relevant Government Departments . The Minister for Urban Development and Planning, the Hon Paul Holloway MP, agreed to enter into an Agreement with the LGA, and has established the Government Planning and Coordination Committee which includes all relevant Departmental CEOs, to oversee the implementation process . The LGA continued to emphasise the role of the development for the industry/private sector, and the importance of community engagement in the success of the Plan .

The LGA also worked closely with the ALGA in the preparation of issue papers and policy statements as the Federal Government increasingly became more involved in the planning arena as a means of achieving housing affordability and economic stimulus agendas and recognised the impact on the planning system of other key challenges such as population growth, increasing rates of urbanisation, climate change, and infrastructure provision, notably transport .

Environmental Protection The LGA continued work with the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) in seeking to provide more effective responses to the community on matters where Councils and the EPA have a role regarding environmental protection matters . While not resolved by 30 June 2010, significant further work was undertaken on the roles of Councils and the EPA in the management of environmental nuisance complaints . The objective of this work is to ensure that the community receives clear and appropriate responses to environmental nuisance issues from the EPA and/or Councils . It is apparent

that some environmental nuisance complaints involve a significant element of neighbourhood dispute and the option of providing access to community mediation services to neighbours is being investigated .

During the year it was agreed to dissolve the EPA/LGA Subcommittee of the EPA Board to be replaced by a ‘High Level Group’ comprising the CEOs of the LGA, the EPA and the Local Government nominee on the EPA Board (Mr Stephen Hains) . The High Level Group met as required to deal with strategic issues emerging at the interface between the EPA and Local Government, including mutual concern about some environmental implications arising from the Plan for Greater Adelaide .

Public Health The Minister for Health, the Hon John Hill MP, released the draft Public Health Bill 2009 for public consultation in August 2009 . The LGA prepared an issues paper on the possible implications of the Bill for Councils and their communities and made an extensive submission to the Minister based on this consultation process . In June 2010, the LGA Senior Executive Committee received a briefing from senior officers of SA Health which indicated that most proposals and suggestions for change in the LGA submission had been incorporated in the final draft of the Bill . These changes will streamline the administration of the Bill by Councils and provide better public health outcomes to their communities .


It is expected that the Bill will be introduced in the Parliament in late 2010 . On behalf of Councils, the LGA still has some important matters to resolve in the implementation of the legislation, including immunisation funding, service delivery in regional Council areas and the development of tools and templates to assist Councils in the administration of the legislation .

The annual ‘Public and Environmental Health Council of the Year’ awards were presented at the LGA General Meeting held on 23 April 2010 . The regional Council winner was the City of Mount Gambier and the metropolitan Council winner was the City of Port Adelaide Enfield with honourable mentions going to the Alexandrina Council and the City of Charles Sturt .

Fire and Emergency Services Act Substantial amendments to the Fire and Emergency Services Act 2005 (proclaimed November 2009) established a new bushfire management framework for South Australia .

The LGA secured a commitment from the State Government that all Councils would have the option of membership on the new Bushfire Management Committees (BMC), that BMC would be responsible for developing bushfire management plans as opposed to Councils and that Fire Prevention Officers would only report to their respective Councils rather than other bodies or agencies .

Emergency Management ActThe review of the Emergency Management Act 2004 has been delayed so that any recommendations from the 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission can be fully assessed and where appropriate incorporated

into the new legislation . The LGA made a submission to the Review Committee recommending a better role definition for Local Government and inclusion of protection provisions for Councils and their employees if they were acting in accordance with the Act .

Road Funding During the year the LGA continued to lobby the Federal Government over the inequitable Identified Local Road Grants funding formula applied to SA . Pleasingly the supplementary funding for SA, won in 2005, was maintained in recognition of the inequitable formula . The LGA continued to seek a permanent fair distribution of the funds and for supplementary funding to be extended beyond 2011 until a permanent solution is found .

PrOVIdING LEAdErSHIP ANd BUILdING CAPACITyGovernance The LGA’s Governance Standards Advisory Committee (GSAC) continued to provide advice on leading practice and continuing governance improvement across the Local Government sector . It undertook a wide range of projects this financial year with emphasis on the following areas:• Legislative Review Program • Local Government Governance Panel - The

Committee considered various options for the Panel and provided advice to the LGA’s State Executive Committee which approved the proposed arrangements for the Panel .

• Good Governance Assessment Program –


The committee reviewed and endorsed the draft Program and pilot validation exercise . The LGA’s State Executive Committee has now endorsed the roll out of this Program and validation of Council’s self-assessments over a rolling five-year cycle .

• Code of Practice for Access to Meetings and Associated Documents – The GSAC developed new guidelines and model documentation to assist Councils deal with confidential items and the preparation of a code of practice .

At its November 2009 meeting the committee agreed that it had achieved its key objectives and determined that it should no longer meet on a regular basis but be available to provide advice as required .

Education and Training During the year, 2,028 Council Members and staff attended 95 programs organised by the LGA Education and Training Service .

An expanded range of seminars and training courses were held this year including:• A Council Members’ Governance Residential

Seminar - 23 attended;• A Chief Executive Officers’ Residential

Seminar - 51 attended;• A Deputy and General Managers’ Residential

Seminar - 31 attended;• Climate Change and Local Government

Seminars held in Adelaide and regionally with a total of 86 attending;

• A Personal Assistants’ Residential Seminar - 48 attended;

• A Mayors’ and Chairpersons’ Residential Seminar - 24 attended;

• A Governance Seminar - 66 attended;• A Nation Building and Jobs Plan Forum - 34

attended;• Caretaker Policy Information Sessions held

in Adelaide and regionally with a total of 93 attending;

• Irrigating Public Open Space - Implementing the Code of Practice training sessions held in Adelaide and regionally with a total of 36 participants;

• Residential Development Code Checklist training sessions held in Adelaide and regionally with a total of 50 participants;

• Section 7 Statements – Managing Enquiries training sessions held in Adelaide and regionally with a total of 85 participants;

• Voters Roll Compilation training sessions held in Adelaide and regionally with a total of 77 participants; and

• Local Emergency Recovery Seminars held in Adelaide and regionally with a total of 64 participants .

The LGA also works with other service providers to promote programs that are of interest and benefit to Council staff and Council Members .

Other courses conducted covered issues including: Induction training for new Councillors; Performance Management; Governance; Meeting Procedures; Development Assessment Panel Fundamentals; Developing and Sustaining Partnerships; Holding a Public Office; Financial Sustainability and Asset Management; Strategic Communications; Affordable Housing; Annual Business Plans; Annual Reports; Asteroid Database Training; Audit Committees; Business Continuity; By-Laws and Model By-Laws; Mandatory Reporting; Code of Conduct; Complaints Handling; Disability Discrimination


Act; Freedom of Information; Procurement and Probity; Rate Setting and Administration; Records Management; External Funding; Strategic Planning; Treasury Management; Whistleblowers; Business Writing; Community Engagement; Event Management; Leadership and Report Writing .

Local Government Elections Legislative Review A range of amendments to the Local Government (Elections) Act 1999 made by Parliament in late 2009 is designed to encourage greater participation in election processes – both nominations and voting – from all sections of the community . These followed a review of the 2006 Local Government elections, jointly funded by the LGA and the State Government . Guided by consultation with Councils, the LGA was able to negotiate a number of improvements to the amendment Bill during its passage through Parliament .

These amendments require a greater contribution from Councils toward promoting Local Government elections and include the first formal caretaker period for Local Government elections and the first legislated website to display candidate statements .

Burnside Council – Ministerial investigation In July 2009 the Minister for State/Local Government Relations appointed Ken McPherson to investigate certain allegations about the operations of the City of Burnside . The LGA provided a briefing to Council Members regarding the conduct of investigations of this nature and expectations for participation . While not directly involved in the investigation, the LGA Chief Executive Officer was interviewed by the investigator in relation to a number of associated matters . The timeframe for this investigation has been extended a number of times and was still in progress at the end of June 2010 . It is expected to be provided to the Minister before the end of 2010 . It is expected that the recommendations of this report may trigger further legislative reform .

volunteer Passport System Portability of volunteers, particularly in emergencies, was tackled through an LGA initiative to explore the concept of a ‘volunteer passport,’ with funding by the Federal Government and the Local Government Research and Development Scheme . Aimed at

reducing the barriers to volunteer movement across Local Government areas in South Australia the project focused particularly on volunteer emergency recovery support . After an extensive consultation process with Local Government and a number of other stakeholders a uniform registration and induction process for volunteers in the LG sector has been developed . The web-based registration and management system will allow the implementation of a passport system between Councils who choose to use it .

Extreme HeatIn consultation with a number of Councils the LGA produced a guide to assist Councils manage extreme heat events . The Guide sought to provide a balance between Councils responding to the needs of the community in a supportive manner as opposed to a course of action that might generate unrealistic community expectations . A key theme of the guide was the need for collaboration between the State, Councils and non government organisations so that an adequate response to assist the community could be achieved without undue duplication of services .

Catastrophic Fire Danger DaysA review of the national framework for community warnings saw the introduction of the fire danger index classification of ‘catastrophic’ which applies when the index exceeds 100 . At this index level there is the distinct possibility that even well prepared buildings may not be able to be adequately defended . In these circumstances the recommended strategy is to leave early . The application of this policy has proved difficult for Councils to manage, especially in relation to


the provision of essential services and the need to ensure the safety of their employees and volunteers . To this end the LGA, in consultation with Councils, the Country Fire Service and LGA Mutual Liability Scheme, has been developing a guide to assist Councils manage high fire danger days . The guide will be available to Councils in advance of the next fire danger season .

Riverbank CollapseSeveral Councils have River Murray frontage within their Council areas that has been subjected to riverbank collapse . The express powers that Councils have to act in these potentially dangerous situations is not clear and, as a result of legal advice, the LGA will be asking the State Government to examine the situation and provide a satisfactory legislative solution .

Zone Emergency Management CommitteesThe LGA has representation on the State Zone Emergency Management Implementation Group which has been responsible for overseeing the establishment of zones across the State . Local Government membership and participation in the zone structure is seen by the Government as being instrumental to their success . All zones, the boundaries of which are based on the State Government Regions, have now been established . A project officer has been appointed to assist the zones Committees develop plans .

Local Government continues to provide representatives on a number of key committees and advisory groups that comprise the State Emergency Management arrangements .

Regulatory Services ProgramCouncils now have access to a model enforcement policy and 11 standard operating procedures for regulatory powers commonly exercised by Council authorised persons . The LGA Research & Development Scheme has enabled the development of procedures that not only comply with the legal requirements but also with good administrative practice . Four Councils - Marion, Alexandrina, Mount Barker and Burnside - piloted the procedures and provided comments . The LGA presented two training programs on how to make the best use of the new procedures, which were well received . A new information paper was also produced as part of this program: Good Administrative Practice in Managing a

Complaints and Investigations Process . These materials will assist Councils’ compliance with new legislative provisions in the Local Government Act 1999, which came into effect in April 2010 . In addition, the LGA submitted a proposal to the Attorney-General seeking a number of amendments to the Ombudsman Act 1972, for the purpose of clarifying the Act and ensuring more transparency in the Ombudsman’s operations .

Legislative Review Program Parliament passed three pieces of legislation directly impacting on Local Government during the year . The Statutes Amendment (Council Allowances) Act 2009 finally achieves Local Government’s long-standing goal of having Council Members’ allowances set independently by the Remuneration Tribunal, rather than by Councils .

The Local Government (Elections) (Miscellaneous) Amendment Act 2009 requires, among other things, the development of a ‘caretaker policy’ for Council elections and requires significant changes to the way a Council’s voters roll is compiled and processed . The LGA developed a model caretaker policy for Councils to adopt or adapt and the LGA/SA Institute of Rate Administrators (SAIRA) Voters Roll Practice Manual has been updated to reflect the requirements of the Act . In addition, the LGA provided Councils with various resource materials on enrolment issues, including suggested communications strategies to inform their communities about the changes .

The Local Government (Accountability Framework) Act 2009 significantly amends the Local Government Act, with different amendments commencing at different times . During the reporting period, the two most outstanding changes made it mandatory for Councils to make their by-laws, audited financial statements and annual reports available on their website and to provide a facility on their website for asking and answering questions and for making submissions during the consultation period for annual business plans and budgets . The LGA coordinated and drafted a substantial submission on the proposed amendments and is continuing to work closely with the State Government to ensure that regulations under the new provisions are workable for Councils .


Comparative Performance Measurement The LGA’s Comparative Performance Measurement Program is an excellent resource for Council Members and staff, providing information to all Councils about their performance against a number of strategic indicators, and allowing them to compare their results with regional and State averages and the average results for Councils of a similar size . Data for the program is drawn from several State Government agencies and a voluntary community survey .

Following a review most Councils indicated support for the program and a desire for more information . Therefore in this financial year the number of strategic indicators was increased from 18 to 23 in seven key areas of: good governance; community satisfaction; financial and asset management; quality of life; community well being; environment and health; and quality service delivery . The voluntary community survey was also expanded to include more questions on satisfaction with Council services . The program began in 2002 and has resulted in 43 Councils agreeing to make their results publicly available, via a link from the LGA website .

Dog and Cat Management The LGA has developed five dog management standard operating procedures which aim to promote consistency of action within and between Councils . In addition, in accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the LGA and the Dog and Cat Management Board (DCMB), the LGA has also supported the development of the DCMB’s new training course for dog management officers, which draws on the LGA standard operating procedures .

EasyDataThe EasyData website, which provides access to comparative information on economic, social and environmental information at Council, regional and State levels, was updated during the year . The project was part funded by the Local Government Research and Development Scheme in partnership with the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) and the State Department of Trade and Economic Development (DTED), which hosts the site . With an easy to use software application, the site provides an entry point to a range of Federal, State and Local Government information with both graphic and tabular report downloads available to users . Regular updates of data are provided to refresh the site . The software application is also regularly updated to meet the increasing demands of users . The site won a 2009 Premier’s Award .

Water SecurityKey elements of the LGA’s Water Security strategy were recognised and highlighted in the State Government’s Water Security Plan - Water for Good – released in July 2009 . These included:• a joint commitment by the LGA President

and the Minister to review the Stormwater Management Authority and the Stormwater Management Agreement;

• a coordinated funding submission to the Federal Government for stormwater harvesting and re-use projects;

• promotion of the Waterwise Communities program to enable households to conserve water; and

• increase the recycling of wastewater in regional communities (see separate entry on CWMS) .

While significant progress was made on the review of the Stormwater Management Authority, the report was not available for consultation with Councils as at 30 June 2010 because of the State election in March 2010 and a new Minister for Water being appointed (the Hon Paul Caica MP) . The review of the Stormwater Management Agreement covering roles and responsibilities of State and Local Government had not yet commenced as at 30 June 2010 and will be a high priority task for the 2010/11 financial year .

The coordinated stormwater harvesting bid to the Federal Government secured an


investment of than $145 million in stormwater harvesting across Greater Adelaide which will save 4 .55 billlion litres of stormwater for re-use . Participating Councils were the Cities of Charles Sturt, Onkaparinga, Playford, Salisbury and Unley . A total of more than $50 million of Federal Government funds was allocated to these five projects with this funding being matched by significant contributions from the participating Councils, together with contributions from the State Government .

The LGA President met with the new Minister for Water to discuss a program of collaborative work on water security projects for 2010/11 given the importance of this issue to Councils and their communities .

Waste Management Under the guidance of the Local Government Association Waste Committee and with the assistance of Local Government Research and Development Fund, Zero Waste SA (ZWSA), Environment Protection Authority (EPA) and Keep South Australia Beautiful (KESAB) the LGA Secretariat has made steady progress over the last period in implementing the LGA Waste Strategy .

During the year the LGA has developed: • a Model Contracts and Tendering Toolkit

with associated discussion papers; • an Illegal Dumping Toolkit to assist Councils

manage this growing concern;• an analysis of markets for Council collected

recycling; and• an investigation into the viability of

Kerbside Recycling Services .

The LGA has also liaised with Councils and ZWSA in relation to food organics and e-waste collections, and lobbied for Local Government on the:• National Waste Policy;• Waste to Resources Environment Protection

Policy;• Public and Environmental (General)

Variation Regulations 2009; and• Local Government Accountability Act 2006 .

native vegetation Following the development of the LGA Native Vegetation Discussion Paper in late 2008, the LGA continued to work through the 17 recommendations of this report . The 2009/10 period saw a significant focus on the consideration of native vegetation in the better planning/development process and road safety . Working with the Department of Water, Land and Biodiversity Conservation and supported by a working group of Local Government officers, the LGA progressed the development of a framework for the assessment of native vegetation clearance along roadways for the purpose of safety . This framework will enable Councils to assess and undertake clearance of vegetation along roadways, for the purpose of safety without the need for a significant environmental benefit offset payment .

Climate Change Endorsed in late 2008 by the LGA, at the Annual General Meeting, the LGA Climate Change Strategic Plan 2008-12 and State and Local Government Climate Change Sector Agreement sets the scene for LGA activities in this area . Established under these strategies are the LGA Climate Change Sector Agreement Steering Committee and Climate Change Task Force which met a number of times during 2009/10, providing significant support and advice to the LGA in our pursuit of outcomes within these strategies .

In 2009/10 year the State and Federal Governments transitioned from a singular focus on mitigating greenhouse gases to an agenda that considered the importance of adapting to the likely impacts of climate change . To support the role of Councils, in adapting to climate change, the LGA has worked with various regions to establish climate change vulnerability and adaptation strategies including those on the Eyre Peninsula,


Central Region of Councils and the Murray Darling Basin Councils involved in the current Strengthening Basin Communities Projects . While we are still awaiting the development of a State Adaptation Framework the LGA has assisted in maintaining consistency in the adaptation processes underway .

The LGA Mutual Liability Scheme continues to deliver the Climate Adaptation and Risk project to Councils with over 35 Councils undertaking the program . The LGA has supported the delivery and refinement of the program and promotion of its valuable outcomes . Data obtained from the Climate Adaptation program has already proven useful supporting various applications for grant and program funding .

In particular the LGA has applied for National Climate Change Adaptation Research Facility funding under the Infrastructure and Settlements round . This project will aim to develop an asset management tool to enable Councils to better understand the asset management and financial impacts of climate change for their region .

On May 28, 2010 the LGA Renewable Energy Pilot Program (REPP) was launched involving six metropolitan and one regional Council . Modelled on the successful City of Victor Harbor solar program this LGA coordinated Pilot involves two distinct projects; the first involves Council hosted forums aimed at increasing the uptake of solar energy and solar hot water systems in the community . The second project is funded by the Local Government Research and Development Scheme and will provide participating Councils with audited data and strategic advice on options for increasing solar systems on Councils own infrastructure .

The LGA REPP has partnered with ZEN Home Energy Systems and will run for 12 months, finishing in May 2011 .

A key role of the LGA in the climate change portfolio is to assist Councils to build capacity to deal with this ever changing issue . During 2009/10 the LGA hosted a series of climate change education and training sessions in metropolitan and regional SA .

Management of Trees on Public Land inquiryThe Independent Inquiry into the Management of Trees on Public Land was announced on 20 May 2010 after being endorsed by the State Executive Committee with the support of the LGA Mutual Liability Scheme (MLS) .

The Board consists of Brian Cunningham (Chairman), former CEO of the Department of Trade and Economic Development and former CEO of Port Adelaide Football Club; Mary Marsland, Chair South Australian Housing Trust Board; and Peter Lockett, former CEO of the City of Charles Sturt . The inquiry will provide independent advice to the LGA on the most appropriate future management regime for trees on public land taking into account current and possible future changes in climatic conditions . Councils and the MLS have had recent experience with a number of incidents where trees on public land have caused damage to property and people . However, trees are also an important and valued asset and trees on Council managed public land (especially footpaths and road-sides) present a particular challenge to achieve a balance between environmental and public safety considerations . The Board is expected to deliver a final report at the end of 2010 .

Libraries During the year the LGA endorsed a Libraries Board initiated project to explore the costs and benefits of a common library management system across SA . The LGA began a program of consultation with Councils based on the business case from the project which was due to be concluded in July 2010 . The LGA also worked with Public Library Services and the Department of Education and Children’s Services in the development of a draft agreement to cover arrangements for joint-use school-community libraries .


Libraries continue to be one of Councils most important services with more than 11 .5 million visits and 18 .5 million items borrowed each year . Libraries rely on a high level of networking through the professional body Public Libraries SA and support based on the five-year Library funding agreement between the LGA and the SA Government . In 2009/10 this agreement delivered $17 .2 million of State funding for public libraries . This program is the largest in an overall State-Local funding context which delivers the lowest per capita funding to Councils of any State or Territory . In short ‘it’s a large part of a small bucket .’

Affordable Housing The second funding round of the Housing Affordability Fund was announced in November 2009 by the Federal Minister for Housing, the Hon Tanya Plibersek . This funding was directed to greenfield and infill developments and planning reforms . Preference was given to projects that delivered Transit-Oriented Developments and public housing estate

redevelopment projects that created mixed communities by building or redeveloping affordable homes for private ownership .

In addition, a joint LGA/DPLG Application was lodged to provide key system facilities to support the implementation of the Plan for Greater Adelaide . This sought to expand the current implementation of the national data interchange protocol (eDA) to produce a significant, sustainable and measurable improvement in the planning and development process . Whilst the application was not granted funding, it highlighted the ongoing challenge of achieving an integrated electronic development assessment system to tackle bottlenecks, for speedier planning approvals through the collection and assessment of planning and development statistics in a coordinated manner at a national level .

The LGA included this issue as a key commitment sought from the State Government in its State election 2010 platform document . Councils in SA have participated in Federal programs that have delivered nearly $19 million to date to our communities (through the Federal Housing Affordability Fund Round 1 and Round 2) .

Workforce PlanningIn 2009/10, the LGA signed an MoU with the State Government allowing Councils to access the State Government Graduate Register . This initiative will give Council’s access to an extensive database of University graduates specifically in areas of high employment demand such as engineering and accounting .

The LGA continues to administer the CareerStart funding for trainees, cadets and apprentices on behalf of Councils and provides guidance and assistance to Councils considering taking on a trainee, cadet or apprentice . An LGA awards program has been introduced to promote the use of trainees, cadets and apprentices .

The LGA conducts a sector-wide workforce data collection on a three yearly cycle . Outside of this, workforce planning statistics continue to be published from Local Government Grants Commission data and presented in graph and table form for Councils seeking comparative statistics for their workforce planning .


Traineeships, Cadetships and ApprenticeshipsAn MoU negotiated between the LGA and the State Government has formalised Local Government’s access to, and involvement in, the State’s CareerStart SA Program which includes Traineeships, Cadetships and Apprenticeships .

The LGA submitted its Annual Skills Recruitment Plan on behalf of Local Government and managed the allocation of funds to Councils for this program . The LGA also provided guidance and assistance to Councils considering taking on a trainee, cadet or apprentice .

In 2009/10 18 Councils engaged 43 trainees under the program . Eight Councils engaged 16 cadets during the year .

The LGA, the Department of Further Education, Employment, Science and Technology (DFEEST) and Local Government Managers Australia (LGMA SA) jointly provide annual awards to trainees, cadets and/or apprentices who make a significant contribution to their Council . The recipients of the 2009 CareerStart SA Awards were:Trainee of the Year Award - Gareth Gann, The Barossa Council; Trainee of the Year Award - Kimberley Williams, District Council of Robe; School-based Trainee of the Year Award - Tyla Matheson, District Council of Copper Coast; Best Council Traineeship Initiative of the Year Award - Port Augusta City Council .

industrial Relations The past year has been very active on the industrial relations front with Local Government being legislated into the State Industrial Relations system . An increase in both fee-for-service and free advisory services has kept the team busy .

The LGA offers a range of industrial services such as support for enterprise bargaining negotiations, dispute resolution, commission appearances, classification reviews, performance reviews, training and senior recruitment . The fee for service advice and assistance was used by 31 councils and three affiliates during the year .

The free advisory line receives on average of 220 calls and 386 emails per month . In addition, the industrial relations team has provided over 100 hours of support to Regional Development Australia bodies . The industrial relations team has been actively working with the other States in developing the Local Government Industry Award (Modern Award) and is currently making submissions on the State Wage Case .

Regional Development AustraliaSouth Australia became the only Australian State or Territory with Federal, State and Local Government funding for joint regional development bodies as a result of a formal agreement between the President of the LGA, Federal Minister the Hon Maxine McKew and State Minister the Hon Paul Caica . The LGA continued to work with Councils, the State and Federal Governments to ensure an effective transition from Regional Development Boards (RDBs) to Regional Development Australia committees (RDAs) .

Notwithstanding some teething problems, all RDBs were transitioned during 2009/10 including several board mergers .

Digital Tv In answer to the Federal Government’s decision to switch from analogue to digital television transmission, the LGA lobbied the Government for a commitment to fund the upgrading of Local Government retransmission infrastructure associated with the provision of digital television services in areas currently reliant on Council infrastructure .

Subsequently, the Federal Government announced, on 5 January 2010, that it would fully fund and build a new digital satellite broadcasting service for regional viewers unable to receive digital television from self-help facilities . The LGA subsquently wrote to the Minister commending the Government on this decsion . This decision will provide an equitable service for regional communities and dramatically improve the choice and quality of television service in regional South Australia .

L to R: Kimberley Williams, District Council of Robe; Gareth Gann, Barossa Council; and Tyla Matheson, District Council of Copper Coast.


The proposed service will relieve the pressure placed on Local Government to maintain existing analogue retransmission infrastructure . In the past some South Australian Councils have been required to own and operate retransmission infrastructure to extend the ‘self-help’ analogue television signals in an effort to reduce the impact of blackspots . This is not an area of core business for Councils and the costs associated with maintaining such infrastructure have been significant .

LGA ReviewThe LGA conducted a Review and Renewal of Organisational Capacity and Services (RROCS) using an independent consultant who surveyed all Councils (58 responses) to gauge the membership’s views about services the LGA should provide on a ‘fee’ basis . The results of the survey were clear – ‘keep doing what you do; offer services in the areas of benchmarking and information/data about the sector; workforce planning and consider other service areas such as media support and recruitment of CEOs and senior managers’ . In addition the review considered organisational capacity, structure and resourcing issues . The review was scheduled for completion in July 2010 and a change management strategy will be adopted to implement changes recommended and endorsed by the State Executive Committee .

IMPrOVING FINANCE, INFrASTrUCTUrE ANd rESOUrCESFinancial SustainabilityThe LGA maintained a focus on assisting Councils with their financial sustainability reform work, through its financial sustainability program, under the guidance of the Financial Sustainability Advisory Committee . Following the review undertaken in late 2008 the work of the financial program has focused on embedding financial sustainability principles into Council program areas . This has involved working with Local Government professional and representative bodies to implement whole of sector policy and practice development measures, targeted training and mechanisms for sharing expertise and experience .

In late 2009 the LGA worked closely with the Office for State/Local Government to submit a funding proposal to the Federal Government Local Government Reform Fund . The proposal sought $2 .5 million (supported by funding from the LGA, Councils and the Office for State/Local Government Relations) to implement an extensive program aimed at improving Councils’ asset and financial management practices . On 28 February 2010 the Hon Anthony Albanese MP, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, announced stage one funding of $1 .65 million towards three of the six components of this project . The LGA expects consideration of the remaining components of the project in the Minister’s stage two announcements .

State Budget and the Sustainable Budget Commission The State Budget was delayed to September 2010 as a result of the State election . The establishment of the Sustainable Budget Commission (SBC) in 2009 however resulted in a resolution at the April 2010 LGA General Meeting for the LGA to prepare a submission to the SBC . The submission, finalised in June,

SA

56.48

vicnSW Qld WA Tas nT Total

72.87Per capita 6yr Average $ 129.7 125.47 113.4 68.25 393.41 104.6

LGA Leadership and Management Team (L to R); Michael Barry, Director Local Government Reform; Barry Parsons, General Manager Corporate & Member Services; Chris Russell, Strategic Adviser Policy and Communications; Wendy Campana, Chief Executive Officer; David Hitchcock, Director Environment and Infrastructure; absent Paul Perry, Strategic Adviser Governance.

State/Territory government grants to Councils


highlighted the formal agreement between the Premier and the President of the LGA and highlighted both the progress of SA Councils in relation to their own financial sustainability and the benefits of joint investment in programs . It also highlighted potential areas for further work and potential problems created by ‘across the board’ cost cutting .

As a part of the submission the LGA purchased additional data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) to update Federal Government published statistics comparing State/Territory funding to Councils .

The table on page 26 shows a six year average of State/Territory funding per capita in each jurisdiction .

Federal Budget The 2010 Federal Budget saw a further allocation of $100 million to the Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program and a special grant of $250,000 to the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) to assist in education regarding Constitutional reform . These allocations were on top of funding to SA Councils of $78 .4 million in General Purpose Financial Assistance Grants (FAGs); $53 .6 million in Identified Local Road Grants; nearly $15 million in Supplementary Local Road funds for SA Councils; $28 .4 million in Roads to Recovery funding; and $4 .7 million in Black Spot Program funding . Financial Assistance Grants continued to decline as a percentage of Federal revenue and continue to be divided between States on an unfair basis which disadvantages SA .

Regional and Local Community infrastructure Program Throughout the year the LGA continued to support Councils’ efforts to access much valued Federal Government funding for community infrastructure works . Round two of the Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program (RLCIP) was announced by the Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, on 25 June 2009 . SA Councils shared $7 .3 million of the $100 million national pool of funding that was provided on an allocated basis to Councils and had the opportunity to make application to the $120 million strategic projects pool . No announcements of successful projects for the strategic projects pool were made during 2009/10 .

On 18 June 2010 the Australian Government announced round three of the Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program, providing an additional $100 million to Councils . This funding, provided on the same allocated basis as for round two, will result in SA Councils sharing a further $7 .3 million in 2010/11 .

Public Lighting SavingsSA Councils annually contribute to community safety through public lighting on roads, footpaths and local parks at a cost of over $12 .6 million . Following negotiations with ETSA Utilities the LGA was able to achieve annual savings for Councils in the order of 8% or $1 .3 million for 2009/10 . Further negotiations seeking cost reductions in the 2010-2015 period are continuing .


Council Rates The first suite of amendments to the Local Government Act 1999 arising from the Local Government (Accountability Framework) Amendment Act 2009 came into effect on 8 April 2010 . Key amendments related to the basis of rating, service rates and charges, and rebates for community services . The LGA provided a resource document for Councils explaining the various amendments and their implications . Opportunity was also taken to review the rating improvements and rating information documents and resources to assist Council’s implement the annual budget requirements during the 2009/10 rating process .

Statewide Wastewater Recycling Project In 2009/10 the LGA was in the final stages of implementing the Statewide Wastewater Recycling project which secured $20 million in Federal Government funding under the National Water Initiative . The project enabled 61 existing Community Waste Water Management Schemes (CWMS) in regional towns to be upgraded to treat wastewater for recycling . Thirty-one Councils participated in the project with a total capital investment of approximately $90 million . The estimated reduction in use of water from the River Murray, groundwater or other potable supplies was 8 .4 gigalitres per annum representing a major contribution to South Australia’s water security objectives by these Councils and their communities .

At 30 June 2010, 44 projects were either fully or virtually completed, 13 were well advanced through respective construction stages and four remained in the pre-construction phase . More than $44 million worth of works have now been subsidised, with total grant payments to Councils at 30 June 2010 amounting to over $10 million . The remaining projects are expected to be completed by December 2011 .

new Community Wastewater Management SchemesWith the Federal funding focused on upgrading existing CWMS, State funding is focused on towns seeking new schemes under a long-term funding agreement between the LGA President and the Minister for State/Local Government Relations, the Hon Gail Gago . The new CWMS program is aimed at providing communal sewerage services to

address public, environment protection and economic development objectives for regional communities at a price equivalent to that charged to SA Water country sewer customers .

Three major schemes achieved substantial or full completion this year:• Springton - The Barossa Council

(app $4 .5 million)• American River – Kangaroo Island Council

(app $7 million)• Port Wakefield - Wakefield Regional Council

(app $6 million)

Pre-construction investigations also proceeded for the following projects with an estimated combined value of $20 million:• Beachport – Wattle Range Council• Donovans – District Council of Grant (design

completed, tenders imminent)• Mount Compass – Alexandrina Council• Mallalla – District Council of Mallala (ready

for public consultation)• Tulka – District Council of Lower Eyre

Peninsula• Cowell – District Council of Franklin Harbour

Subject to adoption by Councils of final designs, construction is expected to commence on all six of the above schemes in 2010/11 . Seed funding has been provided to Councils for preliminary designs for new CWMS in six other towns in regional SA; Stansbury, Port Vincent, Penneshaw, Virginia, Two Wells and Peterborough .

The CWMS program is managed by the CWMS Management Committee comprised of representatives of Local Government and State Government agencies which reports to the LGA State Executive Committee . Throughout the year, the Committee has continued to focus on reform in the CWMS sector including:• CWMS Regional Joint Services Pilot Study in

the South East;• funding support for the High Rate Algal

Pond research program at Kingston on Murray and Lyndoch, aimed at reducing CWMS lagoon footprints and costs in remote areas (in conjunction with Flinders University);

• researching issues related to subsidy funding; and

• providing input to Government on statutory and regulatory matters related to water .


national Water Security Plan for Cities and Towns On June 10 2010 the Federal Minister for Climate Change, Energy Efficiency and Water, Senator the Hon Penny Wong and the LGA President, announced $19 .2 million in funding under the National Water Security Plan for Cities and Towns program .

The LGA’s Statewide submission totalling $7 .2 million funding will be applied to an umbrella project involving 29 projects across 18 Council areas and which will be managed by the LGA through the CWMS Management Committee . The LGA was able to aggregate a number of smaller regional Council projects which would not have otherwise been eligible for funding under the program’s guidelines . The projects include wastewater and stormwater recycling projects and other water conservation initiatives to assist South Australian Councils and communities to reduce demand on potable water supplies . The 29 projects are projected to save 1 .5 gigalitres of water per annum from the River Murray and groundwater sources .

The remaining $12 million has been allocated to Councils for eight stand-alone water saving projects . All projects will help communities diversify their water supplies and reduce reliance on rainfall by introducing stormwater harvesting and wastewater re-use schemes and using recycled water to irrigate open community spaces and improve capacities to better manage current resources .

natural Resources Management During 2009/10 the LGA continued to work with Councils and Natural Resource Management (NRM) regional boards to resolve ongoing concerns about the NRM funding mechanism and lack of services being delivered . The LGA facilitated two reports to address these issues and the resulting report recommendations were raised with the Minister for Environment, the Hon Jay Weatherill . The LGA also initiated an NRM/Local Government relationships MoU which was endorsed by the LGA State Executive Committee with recommendation for adoption by Councils and boards .

ENCOUrAGING PArTICIPATIONOut of the OrdinaryThe sixth successful series of Out of the Ordinary, hosted by popular newsreader Rob Kelvin, was televised on Channel 9 in January 2010 . Twenty-one stories were featured in the four episodes in January, which provided another reminder about the richness and diversity of life in South Australian local communities .

Ratings proved the series was again very popular with viewers, with the show often winning its weekly timeslot and more than 60,000 people tuning in to watch the final episode of the series . More than 170 local South Australian stories have been told using Out of the Ordinary since its inception highlighting Councils’ strong support for their communities . A seventh series is anticipated in 2010/11 .

LGA newsThe LGA continued to publish its four page monthly newsletter, the ‘LGA News’, with accompanying two-page insert ‘At A Glance . . .’ featuring stories from South Australian Councils . Copies of the newsletter were sent to all Councils, all South Australian State and Federal MPs, and media . An electronic copy of the LGA News and ’At A Glance…’ insert were also emailed to more than 1,500 recipients . Current and previous copies are also available on the LGA website .

Promoting Local Government A ‘Key Messages and Model Communications Plan’ project was initiated during the year designed to better support collaboration across the sector on communicating key messages . This project is due to be completed in the second half of 2010 .


During the year the LGA allocated some small sponsorship grants . The LGA supported the 2009 South Australian Tourism Awards by taking up bronze level sponsorship for these Awards . As a sponsor of the Awards the LGA received significant recognition and promotion and Local Government was acknowledged for its continuing support for tourism in South Australia . The LGA also sponsored Planning Institute of Australia (SA) awards and Trainee of the Year Awards .

The majority of LGA effort in this area has been focused on preparations for the Local Government elections in 2010, supporting the State election campaign, preparing for the Federal election campaign, and supporting the ALGA’s preparations for education in relation to recognising Local Government in the Australian Constitution .

Women in Local Government In 2007 the LGA State Executive Committee endorsed the establishment of a working group on Women in Local Government to assist the Minister for State/Local Government Relations, the LGA and the Office of State Local Government Relations (OSLGR) to determine key issues regarding the under-representation of women in Local Government .

This year the Joint Working Group which includes representatives from the LGA, Councils, Australian Local Government Womens Association (ALGWA SA), Local Government Managers Australia (LGMA SA), the Australian Services Union (SA & NT), the Office of State/Local Government Relations and the Minister has developed a Women in Local Government Strategy and a Women’s Strategy Framework . The framework identifies actions

for implementation under the headings: promotion/mentoring; flexible work practices; attraction and retention; and training and development .

The LGA, Councils, ALGWA (SA), LGMA (SA), Australian Services Union (SA & NT) and the Office of State/Local Government Relations also collaborated on a series of South Australian events to celebrate the national 2010 Year of Women in Local Government (YoWiLG) which included a highly successful Women in Local Government Dinner held at the Adelaide Pavilion in June .

The goal of the 2010 YoWiLG was to raise awareness and promote the need for increased participation of women in executive and elected leadership roles within Councils across Australia . A Women Ambassadors’ Program was established as part of YoWiLG with the ambassadors chosen to act as role-models . The champions for SA women in Local Government were: • Jane Fetherstonhaugh - Director of Finance

and Community Services / Dep . CEO - District Council of Grant

• Tanya Hook - Project Officer - City of Tea Tree Gully

• Councillor Angela Keneally - City of Charles Sturt

• Rebecca Thomas (Young Ambassador) - General Manager City Services - City of Holdfast Bay

John Legoe Award The 2009 John Legoe Award was presented to three Council Members in recognition of their commitment and service to their communities . Mrs Gayle Legoe attended the Discover! 2010 Local Government Showcase and General


Meeting Dinner and presented awards to the following Council Members:• Mayor Joy Baluch AM (Port Augusta) was

presented with the John Legoe Award;• Mayor Paul Thomas (Copper Coast) was

presented with the Recognition Award; and• Cr Jane Muras (Campbelltown) was

presented with the Encouragement Award .

Electronic Services Program During 2009/2010 the Electronic Services Program focused its efforts on negotiating and signing a two-year agreement with Deloitte Online Consulting (part of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Ltd) for Unity™ Dynamic Council Websites (DCW) edition . The Agreement covers 94 Unity™ sites in total across South Australia and Tasmania, including one in Victoria and one in the Northern Territory . The team continued to work with Councils and Deloitte on defining enhancements for Unity™ and acceptance testing Unity™6 which is due for release in 2010/2011 .

LGA’s move to 148 Frome Street was a major focus for the Information Technology resources of the ESP team . The ESP Manager provided oversight for the logistics of the physical move and with assistance from the ESP team made the move to virtual servers and a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phone system . All this was achieved with minimal impact on service to Council clients while providing a flexible IT environment for future LGA activities .

The Electronic Services Program continued its involvement in the electronic Development

Assessment Interoperability Specification (eDAIS) Land Division Pilot Project delivering on the first stage of automation between the Department for Planning and Local Government and SA Water . In addition the highly successful SA Council Maps, winner of the Australian Government ‘Excellence in eGovernment Awards’, was incorporated into the Electronic Services Program providing a sustainable pathway for this valuable shared service .

Media Relations The LGA again increased media exposure to Local Government issues during the reporting period . The development of media relations and the cultivation of new media directions including a greater national media focus added to this exposure .

Two major issues during the year, the launch of the Investigation into Burnside Council and the 2010 March State election provided significant media attention . The LGA intensified its normal State election campaign strategy with most SA Mayors, Chairpersons or their proxies recording brief videos for the campaign website, which received more than 3,000 ‘hits’ during the length of the campaign . The LGA’s campaign more than outstripped any other key lobby group in terms of media generated from launches and media releases (see graph below for comparisons) .

A similar but less intense campaign was in development for the Federal election . During the year significant work was done on the development of a media strategy for the Local Government elections due in November 2010 .


LGA WebsiteThe LGA website continues to be a source of information for Councils and the primary mechanism by which Councils access LGA resources . During the year the LGA began a review of internal processes to support the website in preparation for the upgrade to the Unity 6 system expected later in 2010 . The look of the site was upgraded to be consistent with changes to the LGA branding and photo images refreshed . Some additional search features have also been added during the year .

MONITOrING LGA ENTErPrISESLG Corporate Services LGCS Pty Ltd trading as Local Government Corporate Services (a joint venture between the LGA and Local Government Finance Authority (LGFA)) continued to make progress over the past 12 months with a number of

initiatives providing Councils with access to a wide variety of value-added products and services . Two new panel contracts, one for the supply of earth moving and road making equipment and one for the supply of refuse vehicles, tractors, mowers, chippers, trailers, tanks, truck bodies, fire-fighting equipment, generators, compressors, construction tools and forklifts are now in place and available to Councils . In addition LGCS is participating in a national tender for truck vehicles planned for release in September 2010 . This will complete the suite of vehicle contract arrangements that should facilitate the process for Councils and suppliers as well as providing a real ‘value for money’ purchasing option .

Electricity contracts are now in place and operational for street and traffic lights (unmetered 12 & 24 hour) and smaller sites (below 160 Megawatt) . The current contract for larger sites (above 160 Megawatt) expires on 31 December 2010 and a new contract is in place for the ensuing three years .


Telecommunications tenders were also completed for both metropolitan and country-wide services and contracts are being finalised . A pricing and contract access review for fuels was undertaken and arrangements are in place for Councils to unilaterally access the SA Government fuel contract deemed the best option at this time . The After Hours Call Service was also re-tendered during the period and a more cost effective, regional and nationally integrated service is now being provided by LinkQ .

Planning for the 2010 Local Government Roads & Works Conference is well underway . This conference is scheduled for the 26/27 August 2010, hosted by the City of Mount Gambier . Tender and contract services were provided to a number of Council clients and the LGCS continues to support the LGA’s shared services program . The LGCS is currently working on a regional procurement pilot project for the SELGA group of Councils . Agreement was reached during the year to transfer LGCS to the LGA for review and a new future as a part of the LGA from the start of the next financial year .

LGA Mutual Liability Scheme The Local Government Association Mutual Liability Scheme (LGAMLS) continues to provide premium civil liability protection for all Councils and other eligible members in South Australia, through a self-managed fund . With the combination of a solid risk management framework and a proactive claims management approach (in conjunction with a robust reinsurance program) the LGAMLS maintains a solid financial position as it enters its 21st year of operation .

During the past 12 months, the Scheme’s net accumulated reserves have increased to $24 million (unaudited) with the total bonus allocation to member Councils increasing to $2 .31 million . The application of risk management principles and programs remains the focus of the Scheme’s development, with the majority of Councils achieving a combined average of 86 .5% for the 2010 Risk Assessment process – a whole of sector increase on last year’s average . The LGAMLS Board continues to endorse the provision of services that are able to return benefits to assist and define Local Government’s civil liability risk profile . An initiative in 2009/10 was the allocation of further significant funding to ensure every Council has access to the climate adaptation program, aimed at ensuring strategic plans recognise and respond to the potential for climate risks, across all functions of a Council . In addition, 2010 has seen a focus on tree management and coastal management . The development of value added risk related programs continues to assist Local Government in South Australia to remain proactive in developing its industry risk profile and keeping costs down – with profits being returned to member Councils in the form of an annual bonus .

LGA Workers Compensation Scheme The LGA Workers Compensation Scheme has continued to deliver benefits to Councils, both financially and operationally . During the past 12 months, accumulated reserves have grown to $18 .4 million (unaudited), with a record bonus allocation at 30 June 2009 of $9 .5 million ($8 .8 million last year) being paid to members . The number of Local Government employees injured at work has reduced for the 18th consecutive year which has assisted Councils deliver a more productive workforce . Positive prevention initiatives by members and the ongoing establishment of a sound Occupational Health, Safety and Welfare management system, supported by the Scheme, will continue to reduce the number of injured workers, adding to the $18 .1 million annual savings (as estimated by the scheme actuary, compared to being insured with WorkCover) delivered to Local Government through scheme membership during the 2009/10 period .


FACILITATING rESEArCH ANd dEVELOPMENTLocal Government Research and Development Scheme The Local Government Research and Development Scheme (LGR&DS) continued to be a primary source of funding for research in the Local Government sector . Funded through tax equivalent payments by the LGFA, it is managed by an Advisory Committee comprising representatives from the LGA State Executive Committee, Metropolitan CEOs, Country CEOs, Local Government trade unions, South Australian universities, Office for State / Local Government Relations, and the LGA Secretariat .

Since its inception the scheme has approved 415 projects with total funding (approved funding less returned funding) of $18,090,898 and attracted significant matching funds and in-kind support from other sources .

Key projects this year include:• Regional Capacity Building funding

allocations of $33,661 to each regional LGA and the Metropolitan Group

• Financial Sustainability Program Implementation – funding of $540,000 over two financial years, 2008/09 and 2009/10 (Local Government Association of SA)

• Proposed Independent Governance Panel – funding of $15,000 annually (Local Government Association of SA)

• Regional Development Australia Reform Implementation – funding of $15,000 (Local Government Association of SA)

• Water Security Plan – funding of $15,000 (Local Government Association of SA)

• Alternative Funding Arrangements for NRM Boards – funding of $20,000 (Local Government Association of SA)

• Cities as Water Catchments – funding of $50,000 to be allocated to the project in equal instalments over five years (Local Government Association of SA)

• Knowledge Base for Environmental Health Officers - Phase 2 – funding of $24,775 (Environmental Health Australia SA Branch)

• LG Data Collection and Management - Phase 2 – funding of $47,182 (Local Government Association of SA)

• LG Elections 2010 – funding of $220,000 to be allocated to this project over two financial years, $80,000 in 2009/10 and $140,000 in 2010/11 (Local Government Association of SA)

• Online Learning Management System and Training Modules – funding of $100,000 (Local Government Association of SA)

• Review of MOA Classification Structure funding of $15,000 (Local Government Association of SA & Australian Services Union)

• Zone Emergency Management Plans funding of $25,000 (Local Government Association of SA)

• Renewable Energy Pilot Program funding of $20,000 (Local Government Association of SA)

• Council Amalgamations funding of $60,000 (Local Government Association of SA)

• EasyData Upgrade - Data Table funding of $10,500 (Local Government Association of SA)

• Local Government Reform Fund - SA Application funding of $500,000 (Local Government Association of SA) .

Australian Centre of Excellence for Local Government Following the funding and establishment of the Australian Centre of Excellence for Local Government (ACELG) in mid-2009 by the Australian Government, the LGA recognised its significance by commissioning two reports: • a ‘Current State of Professional Development’

paper providing a ‘map’ of recent past and current education, training and research activities being undertaken with, for and about Local Government; and

• an ‘Issues, Challenges and Professional Development Priorities’ paper that identified the current key issues, changes and challenges facing the Local Government sector and their professional development priorities .

The LGA contributes input on issues and priorities for the ACELG to address . This is done through consultation meetings with ACELG


staff and through representation on the ACELG Research Forum whose members include currently active Local Government researchers from more than a dozen universities together with representatives from Local Government associations and professional bodies, Federal and Local Governments and the Australian Services Union .

MANAGING LGA GOVErNANCELGA Constitution and Governance Review The LGA continued an ongoing review of its governance arrangements during the year . A key feature of the year’s work was the adoption of a caretaker policy to ensure that the LGA is not seen to be supporting or opposing any individual candidates in periodical Local Government elections . Although the LGA is not required by law to have such a policy, this reflects the LGA’s ongoing commitment to meet common standards expected of public bodies and relevant to Local Government and the LGA’s role .

The LGA also continued to develop a new constitution to replace the current outmoded document . The constitution provides the framework within which the LGA operates for the benefit of Member Councils, and most importantly guarantees the rights of Councils to have a say in the operations of the Association .

Council Members and staff attended a President’s Forum in August 2009 at which valuable feedback was given and following further written feedback from Councils a final draft of the constitution was adopted at the LGA General Meeting in April 2010, and is currently awaiting Ministerial approval . The new constitution will require the development of a number of related governance documents including meeting procedures and delegation registers . It will also change and clarify procedures for meetings of the LGA and the election of office bearers .

The LGA State Executive is grateful to the members of its ‘Constitutional Review Reference Group’, which provided invaluable advice and generated discussion papers and other supporting documents to facilitate the constitutional review .

LGA Strategic Plan and Annual Priorities A new strategic plan was developed by a workshop of State Executive Members in July and formally endorsed in November 2009, following consultation with the Membership . The plan has seven key focus areas, including strong commitments to representing Local Government, help improving its capacity to deal with new issues, and encouraging community participation .

The LGA’s Strategic Plan guides the decisions of the State Executive Committee and ensures that LGA resources and efforts are directed towards those issues which are of greatest importance to Members . Following the election of each new President and State Executive Committee the strategic plan is comprehensively reviewed . The new plan has a simpler structure than previous versions and is underpinned by a list of ‘Annual Priorities’ which identify the highest priority activities for the year .

LG House and LGA Secretariat After more than 30 years at its Hutt Street location, the LGA relocated to new premises at 148 Frome Street, Adelaide, in May 2010 . The five year old building is about twice the size of the former Local Government House, and will provide a long-term home for the LGA and related Local Government organisations . The move followed a three-year search for a new home . It has spacious meeting rooms for use by Council Elected Members and staff, and will allow the LGA to reduce its environmental ‘footprint’ because of its modern equipment and computerised energy management systems .

Most of the staff of the LGA Secretariat is housed in an open plan office space on one side of the building’s ground floor . The remaining staff, reception area, and six flexible meeting rooms are located on the other side of the building . The building’s four levels are fully tenanted, with Local Government Risk Services occupying level one, and Federal Government agencies on levels two and three . The rents received for these tenancies will meet the building’s operating costs, making it essentially self funding .

Financial (LGA) The 2010 financial year brought a number of changes the most significant being the


purchase of new premises to house the LGA and its affiliated entities . The building at 16 Hutt Street was owned by the Council Purchasing Authority (CPA) Pty Ltd (wholly owned by the LGA) as trustee for the Local Government House Building Fund . Based on financial and legal advice a decision was made by the LGA and supported by CPA for the new building to be owned directly by the LGA . Settlement of the purchase of the building situated at 148 Frome Street, Adelaide, occurred on 2 February 2010 and the building at 16 Hutt Street, Adelaide was sold with settlement taking place on 31 May 2010 . The CPA distributed the net proceeds from the sale to the LGA . As a consequence the abridged financial statements show some marked differences in some accounts when compared to 2009 and notes explaining the differences are provided . The accounts of the LGA remain healthy and the building purchase was achieved without any call on member Councils .

LGA Metropolitan Local Government Group The Metropolitan Local Government Group (MLGG) is comprised of the Mayors and Chief Executive Officers of 19 metropolitan Councils . It provides advice to the LGA State Executive Committee on issues affecting metropolitan Councils and also acts as a forum for

metropolitan Councils to discuss and progress matters which are of common concern . In July 2009 the MLGG held a post-budget review workshop at which it reviewed its initiatives and priorities in light of changes in Federal and State budgets and the content of the Greater Adelaide Plan . As a result of this process new initiatives were suggested, some were deleted, some re-prioritised and others confirmed as appropriate . Members endorsed reviewing the MLGG Strategic Plan at least every 18 months . Sub-committees established by the MLGG include a Metropolitan Chief Executive Officer Committee, which provides a forum for CEOs to discuss management issues and progress matters of mutual concern, an Executive Committee which monitors and advises on implementation of the MLGG Strategic Plan, and a Strategic Roads Committee, which considers and makes recommendations on Special Local Roads Program (SLRP) funding applications for metropolitan Adelaide .

The LGA’s South Australian Regional Organisation of Councils Committee Regional infrastructure, water and communications, including broadband, were


the predominant issues for the South Australian Regional Organisation of Councils (SAROC) Committee this year . Particular issues included consolidated planning across regional areas, placement of regional officers to assist with digital television switchover and consideration for broadband services to populations of less than one thousand persons in the Federal Government National Broadband roll out . The SAROC is a standing committee of the LGA State Executive Committee and represents the interests of 50 regional Councils through their regional associations .

Discover! 2010 Local Government Showcase and General Meeting The Discover! 2010 Local Government Showcase and General Meeting was held on Thursday 22 and Friday 23 April at the Adelaide Convention Centre with more than 270 delegates from South Australian Councils and related agencies attending the Showcase .

More than a third of Councils (24) participated in the speaking program, and it was encouraging to see a ‘first’ in the Year of Women in Local Government - more than half of the presenters were female . A further 11 Councils participated in the impressive exhibition showcasing their projects and services . The program was designed to showcase cutting edge initiatives and policy innovation that is implemented everyday by South Australian Councils for the benefit of their communities .

Presenters shared information on a wide variety of topics including: enterprise bargaining, red tape reduction, safer entertainment precincts, racism and discrimination, using GPS technology to drive graders, better leasing arrangements for recreational facilities, women

in Local Government, emerging women’s leadership training programs, waterproofing the west, water initiatives on Yorke Peninsula, strategic tourism growth for rural communities, Peterborough’s Steamtown Heritage Railway Centre, implementing regional DAPs, a shared CWMS management trial, transforming organisational culture, developing a future workforce, renewable energy, regional climate change action, obesity and lifestyle prevention, barking dogs vs peace in the neighbourhood, community flood safety, riverbank collapse issues along the River Murray, new library and new directions, and virtualisation .

There were a number of firsts at this event:• a refreshing presentation from three

students from the Gilles Street Primary School was well received by delegates as part of the Showcase program;

• an opportunity for Councils to bring along some of their community members to experience first hand the services being delivered by Councils everyday;

• the LGA was also pleased to host a UniSA journalism student at the Showcase as part of her curriculum requirement; and

• Discover! 2010 Local Government Showcase event was promoted by the Adelaide Convention Centre on their signage at the Adelaide Airport .

The LGA President Mayor Felicity-ann Lewis presented certificates of service to long-standing Council Members:- 30 years - Mayor Peter Davis, Pt Lincoln; and - 48 years - Cr Gordon Gallasch, Tea Tree Gully

(deceased - his family attended to accept the certificate)


1. Representing Local Government

1 .1 Ensure Local Government is positioned through elections as a strategic partner for the next terms for State and Federal governments .

1 .2 Ensure the Parliament is well briefed as to the impact of any legislative amendments on Local Government and Council views – particularly in relation to the Local Government Act, LG Elections, LG Accountability, Council Members Allowances, Public Health, and Fire and Emergency Services .

1 . .3 Continue to ensure planning reforms meet community and Council needs and ensure Local Government views on the 30-year Plan for Greater Adelaide are heard .

1 .4 Support the ALGA in working with the Commonwealth Government on updating the Australian Constitution to support effective Local Government for communities .

2. Providing Leadership and Building Capacity

2 .1 Ensure Local Government continues to address governance standards expected by the community including through the establishment and promotion of the LG Governance Panel to assist in dealing with member conduct issues, the delivery of the LGA Better Governance Program, and monitoring proposals in Federal and State Governments .

2 .2 Ensure the Member Strategy is delivered particularly in new approaches to election participation, candidate information and training opportunities for new and ongoing Council Members .

2 .3 Seek a new commitment from the SA Government to supporting reforms to reduce waste to landfill .

2 .4 Work with the LGA MLS to complete the program to support all SA Councils to have a Climate Change Risk Management Strategy by Dec 2010 .

2 .5 Assist Councils in the development of regional climate vulnerability assessments .

2 .6 Work with councils to prepare for the social, economic and environmental impacts of climate change, including the legislative requirements of the National Greenhouse Emissions Reporting Act (NGERS) and proposed Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme (CPRS) .

2 .7 . Continue to work towards the implementation of the 17 recommendations of the LGA Native Vegetation Working Group discussion paper and respond to additional native vegetation issues as they arise .

2 .8 . Implement the actions of the LGA’s Water Security strategy including the review of the Stormwater Management Authority by December, funding support for stormwater harvesting projects and responding to the recommendations of the State Government’s ‘Water for Good’ plan .

3. improving Finance, infrastructure and Resources

3 .1 Engage Commonwealth support and seek recognition of the pace of change in SA and the need to enable infrastructure asset management program funding to focus on key functional areas of Councils and assist in the adoption of best practice .

3 .2 Conclude a new five-year library funding agreement .

3 .3 Implement the LGA’s Financial Sustainability Program including supporting Councils with long term financial planning, financial governance standards, asset management planning and practices, and collaborative resource sharing .

3 .4 Complete the Statewide Wastewater Recycling project for the upgrade of existing Community Wastewater Management Systems (CWMS) by June 30 2010 and implement the program for the construction of new CWMS .

THE 2009/10 LGA ANNUAL PrIOrITIESas adopted by the LGA State Executive Committee


3 .5 Assist Councils to finalise arrangements for the introduction of new Regional Development Australia bodies .

4. Encouraging Participation

4 .1 Support Councils to better inform communities about the role, function and performance of Local Government including via, a Local Government election promotion campaign, the “Shape Your World” career branding; “Out of the Ordinary” television series and the Education Website .

4 .2 Support activities by Councils and the LGA which recognise that 2010 is the National Year of Women in Local Government .

4 .3 Cooperate with the State Government to encourage a better understanding in Councils and the community about the new legislative arrangements applicable to Local Government elections, and to promote greater participation by candidates and voters .

5. Monitoring LGA Enterprises

5 .1 Support the ongoing performance of enterprises to meet the needs of

Councils and review new opportunities to meet the needs of, or reduce the costs of Councils .

6 Facilitating Research and Development

6 .1 Seek to establish a working relationship with the new national Local Government Centre of Excellence and in particular to seek alignment with the SA Local Government Research and Development Scheme where appropriate .

7. Managing LGA Governance

7 .1 Complete the review of the LGA Constitution and implement any relevant or necessary improvements to governance arrangements in line with that review .

8. Other Activities Supporting the Strategic Plan

8 .1 Undertake such other activities as support the Strategic Plan which may arise during the year but ensuring significant resources are not delivered from the above annual priorities without the approval of the State Executive Committee .

THE 2009/10 LGA ANNUAL PrIOrITIES


The LGA has numerous representatives on various working parties, boards and committees including many State Government bodies . The majority of representatives are Members and staff of Councils .

Through our representatives the Association is kept abreast of and helps influence changes in plans, programs, projects and initiatives . At the same time Local Government’s views in relation to policy and proposals for amendments to legislation are also addressed .

The LGA thanks all of those who have given their time (in most cases without reward), for their contributions to these bodies in the interests of Local Government . Key bodies pursuant to Acts of Parliament and representatives at 30 June 2010 include:

ADELAIDE CEMETERIES AUTHORITYRepresentative: Cr Sue Clearihan, Adelaide City Council

AQUACULTURE ADVISORY COMMITTEERepresentative: Mr Stewart Payne, City of WhyallaProxy: Mr David Hitchcock, Local Government Association

BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF COUNTRY ARTS SA BOARDRepresentative: Cr Renee Ellis, Port Augusta City Council

BOUNDARY ADJUSTMENT FACILITATION PANELRepresentatives: Cr Ann Irving, City of SalisburyMayor James Maitland, Wakefield Regional Council

CLIMATE CHANGE SECTOR AGREEMENT STEERING GROUPRepresentatives: Mr Peter Bond, City of Victor HarborMs Anita Crisp, Central Local Government RegionMs Maggie Hine, City of OnkaparingaCr Eddie Hughes, City of WhyallaMs Belinda Portelli, City of BurnsideCr Stephen Yarwood, Adelaide City Council

COAST PROTECTION BOARDRepresentative: vacant

COAST PROTECTION BOARD LOCAL GOVERNMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEERepresentative: Mr Stephen Goldsworthy, District Council of Yorke Peninsula

CONSUMER ADVISORY COMMITTEE – ELECTRICITY Representative: Cr Philip Cheesman, Corporation of the Town of Walkerville

DEVELOPMENT ASSESSMENT COMMISSION Representative: Cr Carolyn Wigg, Corporation of the Town of Walkerville

DOG & CAT MANAGEMENT BOARDRepresentatives: Mr Chris Button, City of OnkaparingaMs Janice Connolly (Chairperson)Cr Jeff Cook, District Council of Yorke PeninsulaCr Rosalie Haese, City of West TorrensCr Irene Whennan, City of Marion

ENERGY CONSUMERS’ COUNCILRepresentative: Cr Philip Cheesman, Corporation of the Town of Walkerville

ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION AUTHORITY BOARDRepresentative: Mr Stephen Hains, City of Salisbury

ETSA UTILITIES CUSTOMER CONSULTATIVE PANELRepresentative: Cr Zane Young, City of Mitcham

INFRASTRUCTURE TASKFORCERepresentatives: Cr Jennifer Osis, Wattle Range CouncilMr Patrick Trimboli, City of Salisbury

LIBRARIES BOARD OF SARepresentatives: Ms Beth Davidson-Park, City of OnkaparingaCr Helen Nichols, City of CampbelltownMs Janice Nitschke, Wattle Range Council

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION MUTUAL LIABILITY SCHEMERepresentatives: Cr Max Amber, City of CampbelltownMs Wendy Campana, Local Government AssociationMr John Coombe, Alexandrina CouncilMr Ray Pincombe, City of UnleyCr John Ross, Tatiara District Council (Chairperson), Mr Michael Sedgman, Adelaide City Council

rEPrESENTATIVES ON LOCAL GOVErNMENT ANd OUTSIdE BOdIES


LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION WORKERS COMPENSATION SCHEMERepresentatives: Cr Max Amber, City of CampbelltownMs Wendy Campana, Local Government AssociationMr Tim Jackson, City of PlayfordMs Sharon Kelsey, City of MitchamCr John Ross, Tatiara District Council (Chairperson)Cr Natalie Victory, City of Marion

LOCAL GOVERNMENT FINANCE AUTHORITYRepresentatives:Mr Paul Cohen, Alexandrina Council (Chairperson)Mr Tony Pederick, Corporation of the Town of WalkervilleMs Wendy Campana, Local Government Association

LOCAL GOVERNMENT TRANSPORT ADVISORY PANEL Representatives:Mayor Brian Hurn, Barossa Council (Chairperson)Mayor Kym McHugh, Alexandrina CouncilMr Wally Iasiello, City of Port Adelaide Enfield

LOCAL SUPERRepresentatives:Mayor Brian Hurn, Barossa CouncilCr John Rich, Corporation of the Town of Walkerville

MINISTER’S STATE / LOCAL GOVERNMENT FORUMRepresentatives:Mayor Ivan Brooks, City of MitchamMayor Mary-Lou Corcoran, City of Victor HarborMayor Felicity-ann Lewis, LGA President / City of MarionMayor David O’Loughlin, City of ProspectMayor Jim Pollock, Corporation of the City of Whyalla

Proxies:Mayor Ray Agnew, District Council of Yorke PeninsulaMayor Joy Baluch AM, Port Augusta City CouncilMayor Robert Bria, City of Norwood Payneham & St PetersMayor James Maitland, Wakefield Regional CouncilCr Jill Whittaker, Campbelltown City Council

NATIVE VEGETATION COUNCILRepresentative: Mayor Jayne Bates, Kangaroo Island CouncilProxy: Mayor Kym McHugh, Alexandrina Council

NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT COUNCILRepresentative: Mayor Felicity-ann Lewis, City of MarionProxy: Mr David Morcom, Barossa Council

POWER LINE ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE (PLEC)Representative: Mayor Ivan Brooks, City of Mitcham

PREMIER’S CLIMATE CHANGE COUNCILRepresentative: Ms Verity Sanders, City of Port Adelaide Enfield

PUBLIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH COUNCILRepresentatives:Mr John Coombe, Alexandrina CouncilMayor Felicity-ann Lewis, City of MarionProxies:Mr Stephen Saffin, City of MitchamCr Helen Wright, City of Port Adelaide Enfield

SA BOATING FACILITY ADVISORY COMMITTEERepresentative: Mayor Jayne Bates, Kangaroo Island CouncilProxy: Cr Darren O’Halloran, Wattle Range Council

rEPrESENTATIVES ON LOCAL GOVErNMENT ANd OUTSIdE BOdIES


SA FLOOD WARNING CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEERepresentatives: Mr Wally Iasiello, City of Port Adelaide EnfieldMr Stephen West, City of Burnside

SA LOCAL GOVERNMENT GRANTS COMMISSION Representatives: Ms Mary Patetsos, Presiding MemberCr John Ross, Tatiara District Council

SA MEAT HYGIENE ADVISORY COMMITTEE Representative: Ms Susan Bourne, City of Playford

SA TRAILS COORDINATING COMMITTEERepresentative: Mayor Ivan Brooks, City of MitchamProxy: Ms Katrina Wills, Naracoorte Lucindale Council

SA WATER CUSTOMER COUNCILRepresentative: Cr Raelene Telfer, City of Marion

SOUTH AUSTRALIAN FRUIT FLY STANDING COMMITTEERepresentative: Cr Steven Mudge, City of MarionProxy: Cr Grant Gartrell, Alexandrina Council

SOUTH AUSTRALIAN HERITAGE COUNCILRepresentative: Mr Rob Donaldson, formerly of City of Holdfast Bay

SOUTH EAST WATER CONSERVATION & DRAINAGE BOARDRepresentative: Ms Lorna Gilmore

STATE EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEERepresentative: Ms Wendy Campana, Local Government AssociationProxy: Mr Michael Barry, Local Government Association

STATE LEVEL CROSSING SAFETY ADVISORY COMMITTEERepresentative: Cr Raelene Telfer, City of Marion

STATE RECORDS COUNCILRepresentative: Ms Tammy Watson, City of Port Adelaide Enfield

STATE RECOVERY ADVISORY COMMITTEERepresentative: Ms Heidi Metcalfe, City of PlayfordProxies:Mr Neville Hyatt, Local Government AssociationMr Trent Rusby, Alexandrina Council

STORMWATER MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE Representatives:Ms Wendy Campana, Local Government AssociationMr Brian Clancey, District Council of Mount BarkerMr Barry Grear, Presiding MemberMr Colin Pitman, City of Salisbury

SUPPORTED RESIDENTIAL FACILITIES ADVISORY COMMITTEE Representatives:Cr Kevin Duke, City of Norwood Payneham & St PetersCr Peter Heysen, City of Holdfast BayCr Penelope Richardson, City of Mount GambierCr Sue Whitington, City of Norwood Payneham & St PetersProxies:Cr Ann Irving, City of SalisburyMr Michael Livori, Eastern Health AuthorityCr Helen Wright, City of Port Adelaide EnfieldCr Joyce Yeomans, District Council of Yorke Peninsula

TRANSPORT ACCESSIBILITY ADVISORY GROUPRepresentative: Mr Mike Taggart, City of SalisburyProxy: Ms Jan Gaskin, City of Marion

UNIVERSAL ACCESS TO EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION STAKEHOLDERS ADVISORY COMMITTEERepresentative: Cr Joseph Cullen, Adelaide City Council

YOUTH ROAD SAFETY TASK FORCERepresentative: Cr Natalie Victory, City of MarionProxy: Cr Riccardo Zahra, City of Salisbury ZERO WASTE SA BOARDRepresentatives:Mr Jeff Tate, City of OnkaparingaMr Tom Spirat, The Corporation of the City of Whyalla


inCOME $ $Administration charges 1,700,034 1,611,101Distribution from the CPA 5,663,281 1Interest Received 241,329 282,867Local government conferences 198,691 212,123Recoupment of costs incurred in projects 176,557 169,533Rent received 472,004 - 2Seminars and conferences 687 11,340Subscriptions 1,778,893 1,719,344Annual General Meeting 61,030 44,235IR Service Fee 86,146 63,740Wages & other recoveries 128,153 229,264Sundry income 773,667 105,546 3

Total 11,280,472 4,449,093

ExPEnSESAudit fees 31,150 15,076Annual report 14,700 9,205ALGA subscriptions 189,576 183,001Allowances 50,000 45,076Assets written off 20,366 - 4Bank charges 1,406 1,139Cleaning 77,244 32,106 5Computer licenses, equipment, maintenance and rental 20,926 8,701Contribution to Building Trust Fund 172,333 188,000Consultant fees 200,332 191,364Depreciation 357,875 120,347 6Deficit projects written off 1,276 6,114Donations - 150Doubtful debts 34,433 - 7Electricity, light and power 65,497 30,485 8Equipment, rental & maintenance 26,432 27,766Fringe benefits tax and stamp duties 43,232 56,996General meeting expenses 74,076 67,964General projects 60,000 - 9Insurance 34,922 17,867 10Interest paid 312,942 - 11Legal expenses 199,011 171,480Library 261 340Local government conference/showcase 137,582 148,080Local government elections - 652Provision of staff entitlements 109,608 125,104Maintenance 30,554 11,939 12Motor vehicle expenses 38,740 40,049Office expenses 25,085 29,975Other 120 - Payroll tax 94,232 89,844Postage and couriers 21,705 18,240President’s dinner/forum 14,625 8,444Printing and stationery 34,167 38,285

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

2010 2009

Local Government Association of South Australia Abridged income Statement for the year Ended 30 June 2010


ExPEnSES (continued) $ $Promotions and public relations 92,397 113,248Project funds re-allocated - 60,000Rates and taxes 147,684 55,471 13Relocation costs 10,643 - Recruitment costs 16,708 14,703Salaries 2,183,557 1,959,756Security costs 6,597 336Sponsorship 8,386 7,070Staff development 20,300 17,054Subscriptions & seminars 12,643 24,117Superannuation 198,849 181,026Telecommunications 50,899 34,639Travel and accommodation 50,858 93,680Workers compensation 4,126 4,870

Total 5,298,055 4,249,759

Surplus/Deficit of income over expenditure for year 5,982,417 199,334

Association funds at the beginning of the financial year 1,427,003 1,228,310Capital Adjustment - Income pertaining to financial year ended 30 June 2008 received in 2009 - 140,000

Transfer to reserves - employee entitlement (82,452) (86,960) - asset replacement 331,818 (53,681)

Accumulated funds at the end of the financial year 7,658,786 1,427,003

Reserves 1,177,028 1,426,394

Total Association funds at the end of the year 8,835,814 2,853,397

nOTES TO SiGniFiCAnT iTEMS1 Distribution upon sale of 16 Hutt Street Adelaide (the former premises) by the Council

Purchasing Authority Pty Ltd .(CPA)2 Rental income from tenants of 148 Frome Street Adelaide (the new premises) .3 Includes the transfer of $668,110 from the Municipal & District Purchasing Fund as part of its

winding up .4 Fixtures and fittings attached to the new premises with a written down value of less than

$1,000 at time of settlement were written off along with surplus unwanted furniture from the former premises .

5 For the period 2/2/10 to 31/5/10 the LGA owned 2 buildings .6 Increase in fixed assets after purchase of the new premises .7 Kaurna State and Local Government ILUA Negotiations project .8 As per note 5 above .9 LGA contribution to the “Review and Renewal of Organisational Capacity” project .10 Includes building and content insurance for the new premises .11 (a) Interest paid to projects on un-used balances as at 30/6/10, internal book entry . (b) Interest paid on the outstanding loan over the former Local Government House .12 As per note 5 above .13 As per note 5 above .

2010 2009


$ $

Current AssetsCash and cash equivalents 16,223,403 28,728,640Trade and other receivables 1,789,748 2,363,459Other current assets 158,291 102,545

Total Current Assets 18,171,442 31,194,644

non-Current AssetsFinancial assets 350,005 5 1Property, plant and equipment 19,320,493 361,618 2Other non-current assets 55 641

Total Non-Current Assets 19,670,553 362,264

Total Assets 37,841,995 31,556,908

Current LiabilitiesPayables 828,912 1,038,139Financial liabilities 292,028 - 3Unexpended project funds 26,528,703 27,036,378Provisions 659,001 628,994

Total Current Liabilities 28,308,644 28,703,511

non-Current LiabilitiesFinancial liabilities 645,093 - 4Provisions 52,444 -

Total Non-Current Liabilities 697,537 -

Total Liabilities 29,006,181 28,703,511

net Assets 8,835,814 2,853,397

Association FundsReserves 1,177,028 1,426,394Accumulated funds 7,658,786 1,427,003

Total Association Funds 8,835,814 2,853,397

nOTES TO SiGniFiCAnT iTEMS:1 Loan to LGCS P/L .2 Increase in fixed assets after purchase of the new premises .3 The current portion of the balance of a loan the CPA maintained with the LGFA which was

taken out to extend the original Local Government House, taken over by the LGA .4 The non-current portion of the balance of a loan the CPA maintained with the LGFA which

was taken out to extend the former Local Government House, taken over by the LGA .

The LGA maintains a Cash Advance Facility - 24 hour basis floating rate with the Local Government Finance Authority (LGFA) to a limit of $12 million drawn to $937,121 as at 30/6/10 .

The above abridged Income Statement and Balance Sheet have been extracted from the audited financial report which will be available at the Annual General Meeting and from the Local Government Association .

2010 2009


Local Government Association of South Australia Abridged Balance Sheet as at 30 June 2010



Adelaide City CouncilAdelaide Hills CouncilAlexandrina CouncilAnangu Pitjantjatjara YankunytjatjaraThe Barossa CouncilDistrict Council of Barunga WestBerri Barmera CouncilCity of BurnsideCampbelltown City CouncilDistrict Council of CedunaCity of Charles SturtClare & Gilbert Valleys CouncilDistrict Council of CleveDistrict Council of Coober PedyCoorong District CouncilDistrict Council of the Copper CoastDistrict Council of EllistonThe Flinders Ranges CouncilDistrict Council of Franklin HarbourTown of GawlerRegional Council of GoyderDistrict Council of GrantCity of Holdfast BayKangaroo Island CouncilDistrict Council of Karoonda East MurrayDistrict Council of KimbaKingston District CouncilLight Regional CouncilThe District Council of Lower Eyre PeninsulaDistrict Council of Loxton WaikerieDistrict Council of MallalaCity of MarionMid Murray CouncilCity of MitchamThe District Council of Mount Barker

City of Mount GambierDistrict Council of Mount RemarkableThe Rural City of Murray BridgeNaracoorte Lucindale CouncilNorthern Areas CouncilCity of Norwood Payneham & St PetersCity of OnkaparingaDistrict Council of Orroroo CarrietonThe District Council of PeterboroughCity of PlayfordCity of Port Adelaide EnfieldPort Augusta City CouncilCity of Port LincolnPort Pirie Regional CouncilCity of ProspectRenmark Paringa CouncilDistrict Council of RobeMunicipal Council of Roxby DownsCity of SalisburySouthern Mallee District CouncilDistrict Council of Streaky BayTatiara District CouncilCity of Tea Tree GullyDistrict Council of Tumby BayThe City of UnleyCity of Victor HarborWakefield Regional CouncilThe Corporation of the Town of WalkervilleWattle Range CouncilCity of West TorrensThe City of WhyallaWudinna District CouncilDistrict Council of YankalillaDistrict Council of Yorke Peninsula

Wendy CampanaJacqui KelleherMichael BarryChris RussellBarry ParsonsDavid HitchcockPaul PerryLou PisanielloSandra Von HolstLee-ann VincenziAdam GrayRyan VineyAlison GillSandy SemmensPatricia CoonanStevie ConnorJohn Wright

Kirsten FielkeMeagan BrayMary Ann StenbergBethany LoatesKate SymesRobin GoossensPatti RaftopoulosVictoria GailitAndrea MaloneNeville HyattJohn MundyAmanda CallbuttIan MayVanessa BlakelockDanielle BaileyBill FurseSarah YoungVicky Newton

LGA MEMBErS

LGA STAFF AS AT 30 JUNE 2010


148 Frome Street Adelaide SA 5000 • GPO Box 2693 Adelaide SA 5001 DX 546Tel 08 8224 2000 • Fax 08 8232 6336 • Web www .lga .sa .gov .au

Annual Report 2009/10 - cuccoviadesign.com · Facilitating Research and Development ... Local...

Documents

Transcript of Annual Report 2009/10 - cuccoviadesign.com · Facilitating Research and Development ... Local...