Australian local government funding advocacy

Local government representatives across Australia are advocating for increased and reformed funding to address growing community and infrastructure pressures.

In Victoria, the Municipal Association of Victoria has called for investment to help 79 councils manage climate impacts, rising costs, and housing infrastructure. While some areas, such as Murrindindi Shire, have received funding for bushfire recovery, local leaders have noted that such grants may not fully address the scale of recent disasters. Additionally, calls have been made for federal assistance regarding security costs for religious events.

Broadening the scope to a national level, regional leaders in Tasmania and South Australia are pushing for significant fiscal reforms. In South Australia, regional associations are recommending that the Federal Government restore Financial Assistance Grants Funding to at least 1% of Commonwealth taxation revenue. Advocates are calling for a transition from competitive grant programs toward fairer, formula-based models to ensure the sustainability of essential infrastructure like roads and airports, particularly in regions with small rate bases.