Inquiry to Address Regional Funding Challenges
Public hearings will be conducted by the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Regional Development, Infrastructure and Transport in Wodonga, Wagga Wagga, and Taree this week. These sessions aim to address challenges related to local government funding across regional Australia.
In total, over 20 councils are set to participate in discussions. Topics will include grant distribution, recovery from natural disasters, and workforce challenges affecting regional Victoria and New South Wales. The Committee seeks to understand these challenges better and explore possible solutions.
According to Committee Chair, Mrs Fiona Phillips MP, “The Committee is looking forward to learning more about the fiscal sustainability of local government in both northern Victoria and regional NSW and potential solutions to current challenges for fast-growing regional cities and geographically larger shires with fewer rate payers.”
Beginning in Wodonga on Wednesday, 6th May, the hearings will be held at the Huon Room, Huon Hill Hotel, from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm. Regional city councils such as Wodonga and Wangaratta will focus on financial sustainability and infrastructure needs.
The Committee will move to Wagga Wagga on Thursday, 7th May. The meeting will take place at the Premier room, Mercure Wagga Wagga, from 9:00 am to 2:50 pm. Representatives from Regional Capitals Australia, NSW Country Mayors, and NSW Farmers will discuss issues like bushfire recovery and labour market conditions.
Finally, on Friday, 8th May, the hearing will occur in Taree at the Melaleuca room, Club Taree, from 9:15 am to 4:00 pm. This session will cover financial sustainability and broader pressures facing councils along the mid-north coast and inland up to the Tweed River, especially those recovering from natural disasters.
The Australian Parliament House Streaming Portal will provide access to the public for these hearings. Detailed programmes and additional information, including terms of reference and how to contribute, are available on the inquiry webpage.
Hearing Schedule and Locations
Public hearing details are as follows: Wodonga on 6th May at Huon Hill Hotel, Wagga Wagga on 7th May at Mercure Wagga Wagga, and Taree on 8th May at Club Taree. Each session will feature key speakers and cover important topics relevant to their respective regions.
Further information on the inquiry, including submissions and transcripts of previous hearings, can be found on the inquiry webpage. The Committee encourages public participation and welcomes feedback on the issues discussed.
