More reform for local government – and councils will be very pleased about it
Source: Queensland. Minister for Local Government. Media Release
"More savings and improved council efficiency are on the cards with the Bligh Government moving to simplify legislation with provisions for local councils. Local Government Minister Desley Boyle announced in State Parliament that a sweeping review was about to get underway into all legislation that has requirements on local councils.“There’s understandably many provisions in our Acts and pieces of subordinate legislation that councils as modern entities have to navigate,” Ms Boyle said in Parliament.“When we did the consultation on the old Local Government Act 1993, some councils admitted they were having difficulties working across the many different pieces of legislation that relate to their business.“They also noted that at times, they had trouble working with different definitions and other legislative requirements covered in different statutes. For example, there’s different rules governing the right of entry onto properties, different notice times, fines and penalties.“Well we are listening, and we will be simplifying the regulatory system to get the balance right between improving accountability and cutting red tape. This will undoubtedly lead to significant administrative savings for councils – but ratepayers and businesses too."