Achieving Improvements for the benefit of the Murray Mallee Community Berri Barmera Council, Coorong District Council, District Council of Karoonda East Murray, District Council of Loxton Walkerie,

Mid Murray Council, Renmark Paringa Council, Rural City of Murray Bridge, Southern Mallee District Council

55 Excelsior Parade, Hindmarsh Island SA 5214 Postal: PO Box 1014, Goolwa SA 5214

Phone: 08 8555 3929 Fax: 08 8555 0451

Mob: 0429 862 669 Email: ceo@mmlga.com.au

Website: www.mmlga.sa.gov.au ABN: 78 714 181 490

MINUTES for the

M&MLGA GENERAL MEETING held on the 5th August, 2011

at the

Renmark Paringa Community and Civic Centre, 61 Eighteenth Street, Renmark

and which commenced

at 10.00am.

The Meeting was open to the Public.

2

MINUTES

Minutes of the General Meeting of the Murray and Mallee Local Government Association (M&MLGA) which commenced at 10.00am on Friday 5th August, 2011 at the Renmark Paringa Community and Civic Centre, 61 Eighteenth Street, Renmark, SA.

ATTENDEES: Berri Barmera Council (BBC): Mayor Peter Hunt and Deputy Mayor Rhonda Centofanti. Coorong District Council (CDC): Cr. Neville Jeansch (proxy) and Tim Tol, Deputy CEO (proxy). District Council of Karoonda East Murray (DCKEM): Peter Smithson, CEO. District Council of Loxton Waikerie (DCLW): Mayor Leon Stasinowsky, (President), Deputy Mayor Mark Ward (proxy) and Chris Fels. Director, Infrastructure. Mid Murray Council (MMC): Mayor David Burgess, Deputy Mayor Kevin Myers and Dean Gollan, CEO (observer). The Rural City of Murray Bridge (RCMB): Mayor Allan Arbon, OAM, Deputy Mayor Barry Laubsch and Damien Moloney, CEO (observer). District Council of Renmark Paringa (RPC): Mayor Neil Martinson, Tony Siviour, CEO (proxy), Cr. Peter Hunter (observer) and Cr. Jack Gibb (observer). Southern Mallee District Council (SMDC): Mayor Gordon Hancock and Deputy Mayor Robert Sexton. M&MLGA – Peter Campbell, CEO. Guests: Tim Whetstone, MP, Member for Chaffey, Sharon Starick, Presiding Member, SA MDB NRM Board, Hugo Hopton, Regional Manager, SA MDB NRM Board, David Hitchcock, LGA SA, Alison McAllister, LGA SA, Malcolm Bayly, DPLG, Superintendant Ian Parrott, OIC, Murray Mallee Local Service Area, Terry Banks and Graham Brook, SA MDB NRM Board, Barry Hurst, observer, James Hancock, ABC News.

3

1. OPEN and WELCOME.

The President welcomed all those in attendance, making special mention of guests present and declared the Meeting open at 10.09 am. 1.2 Open and Welcome – Mayor Neil Martinson, Renmark Paringa Council welcomed all to the Renmark Paringa area. He spoke to a PowerPoint presentation, a copy of which forms part of these Minutes. 2. APOLOGIES. An attendance list was circulated. Members and Attendees were asked to record any additional apologies. Brenton Lewis, CEO, RDA (Murraylands and Riverland) Board, John Dawkins, MLC, Ivan Venning, MP, Member for Schubert, Rod Ralph, CEO, SMDC, Michael Boyd, CEO, CDC, Mayor Roger Strother, CDC, Peter Ackland, CEO, DCLW, Patrick Secker, MP, Member for Barker, Adrian Pederick, MP, Member for Hammond, David Beaton, CEO, BBC and Mayor Kevin Burdett, DCKEM. 3. CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES. The Minutes of the M&MLGA Annual General Meeting held on Friday, 3rd June, 2011 held at the Mid Murray Council Meeting Room, 49 Adelaide Road, Mannum, SA were previously electronically circulated, and uploaded to the Association’s website at www.mmlga.sa.gov.au under the “Minutes” tab. Motion resolved: That the Minutes of the Annual General Meeting held Friday, 3rd June, 2011 be accepted as a true and correct record. Moved: RCMB Seconded: BBC Carried. The following Item was brought forward for consideration for reasons of time constraints: Item 7.2.2 – (8.2.1.2 – 6/11) & (7.2.1.2 – 4/11) & (7.2.1.3 – 2/11) - SA MDBNRM Board – Proposed Integration with DENR – CEO, M&MLGA. Strategic Plan √ Annual Business Plan √ Gov’t Imposed √ Budget Implications × Budgeted × A PowerPoint Presentation and handout, copies of which form part of these Minutes, was provided by the Presiding Member, Sharon Starick and Hugo Hopton, SA MDB NRM Board Regional Manager. Questions and answers ensued.

4

4. BUSINESS ARISING.

Item 4.1 – (4.1 – 6/11) & (4.1 – 4/11) & (4.1 – 2/11) & (5.1 – 12/10) & (4.1 – 10/10) & (4.1 – 8/10) & (4.1 – 6/10) & (4.6 – 4/10) & (4.8 – 2/10) etc. - Ensuring Local Government Services Provision Project (ELGSPP) - Local Government Research and Development Fund (LGR&D Fund). Strategic Plan √ Annual Business Plan √ Gov’t Imposed × Budget Implications √ Budgeted √ The CEO advised that comments had been received from SMDC and BBC, both of which had been passed on to the consultants. In addition the CEO advised that further work was being undertaken by the Consultants on “impacts on real estate values” which is to be included in the final Report. No further comments on the draft Report were received. Motion resolved: That the Item be noted. Moved: DCLW Seconded: MMC Carried.

Item 4.2 – (4.5 – 6/11) & (11.1 – 4/11) – Broomrape Eradication Program. Strategic Plan √ Annual Business Plan √ Gov’t Imposed √ Budget Implications × Budgeted × General discussion ensued. It was further advised that the Minister is to meet with the community on this Item at the Murray Bridge Golf Club on the 16th August, 2011. The President encouraged representatives from affected Councils to attend. Motion resolved: That the Report be received. Moved: SMDC Seconded: MMC Carried.

Item 4.3 – (9.1 – 6/11) - STEP UP Program – Southern Mallee District

Council (SMDC) – Discussion Item. Strategic Plan × Annual Business Plan × Gov’t Imposed × Budget Implications × Budgeted × It was noted that Rod Ralph was an apology.

Motion resolved: That the Report be received and that individual Member Councils be encouraged to participate, should they see fit. Moved: RPC Seconded: RCMB Carried.

5

Item 4.4 – (4.5 – 4/10) & (4.7 – 2/10) & (4.3 – 8/09) & (4.3 – 6/09) & (4.5 – 4/09) & (4.5 – 2/09) & (7.2.1.2 – 12/08) - Trail Bike access to Road Reserves. Strategic Plan √ Annual Business Plan √ Gov’t Imposed × Budget Implications × Budgeted × Motion resolved: That the Report be received. Moved: MMC Seconded: DCLW Carried. Item 4.5 – (4.6 – 4/11) & (10.2 – 2/11) – Viterra Grain receival review – Southern Mallee District Council (SMDC). Strategic Plan × Annual Business Plan √ Gov’t Imposed × Budget Implications × Budgeted × Motion resolved: That the Report be received and that a watching brief be maintained, to be reviewed at the next Association General Meeting. Moved: MMC Seconded: RPC Carried. Item 4.6 – (11 - 6/11) - Un-roadworthy Road Vehicle Issues – correspondence forwarded to LGA – District Council of Loxton Waikerie (DCLW). Further explanations on this Item were provided by Superintendant Ian Parrott, Officer in Charge, Murray Mallee Local Service Area. Questions and answers ensued. Motion resolved: That the Report be received. Moved: MMC ̀ Seconded: CDC Carried. Item 4.7 – There was no other Business Arising. 5. REPORTS AND PRESENTATIONS.

Item 5.1 – Report(s) from Representative(s) of the Local Government

Association of SA (LGA SA). David Hitchcock, LGA SA, provided a verbal Report and spoke to a handout,

a copy of which forms part of these Minutes.

General discussion, questions and answers ensued.

6

Alison McAlister provided information on her role with the LGA and encouraged Councils to contact her if relevant data sets are required for submission and other purposes.

Item 5.2 – Report(s) from Representative(s) of the Office of Local Government (O of LG).

Malcolm Bayly, DPLG, provided a verbal Report.

General discussion, questions and answers ensued.

Motion resolved: That the Reports at Items 5.1 and 5.2 be received. Moved: SMDC Seconded: RPC Carried.

Item 5.3 – Reports of Delegates. (other than those applicable to Strategic

Issues - Environmental, Economic, Social and Governance).

Item 5.3.1 – SAROC.

Motion resolved: That the Report be received. Moved: MMC Seconded: CDC Carried. Item 5.3.2 – Murraylands and Riverland Regional Coordination Network (RCN). Strategic Plan √ Annual Business Plan × Gov’t Imposed √ Budget Implications × Budgeted × As there had been no RCN Meeting held during the period, no Report was provided. Item 5.3.3 – Murray and Mallee Zone Emergency Management Committee (ZEMC). Strategic Plan × Annual Business Plan √ Gov’t Imposed √ Budget Implications × Budgeted × Superintendant Ian Parrott, Officer in Charge, Murray Mallee Local Service Area (212), South Australia Police, provided Delegates with a verbal update Report. Questions and answers ensued. Motion resolved: That the Report be received. Moved: BBC Seconded: MMC Carried.

7

Item 5.4 – Chief Executive Officer’s Report. A question and answer ensued. Motion resolved: That the Report be received.

Moved: DCKEM Seconded: SMDC Carried.

6. FINANCIAL MATTERS.

Item 6.1 –Audited Financial Statements as at 30th June, 2011. Strategic Plan √ Annual Business Plan √ Gov’t Imposed √ Budget Implications × Budgeted √

Motion resolved: That the audited Financial Account Reports as provided in

APPENDIX 6 be noted and that the President and the CEO be authorised to sign off the Accounts in accordance with the Auditor’s instructions and to which the President’s and Member Council CEO’s Statements of Auditors Independence be appended. Moved: SMDC Seconded: DCLW Carried.

7. STRATEGIC ISSUES – Legend: General, Environmental, Economic, Social and Governance.

7.1 STRATEGIC ISSUES - GENERAL.

Item 7.1.1 – (8.1.3 – 6/11) & (7.1.1 – 4/11) - Strategy for Regional South

Australia. Strategic Plan √ Annual Business Plan √ Gov’t Imposed × Budget Implications × Budgeted × Motion resolved: That: 1) The Report be received, and 2) Through the President and the CEO, the Association responds to the draft Report as appropriate, and 3) That Member Councils be encouraged to respond and contribute to the consultation process when the final Report and discussion paper are released. Moved: MMC Seconded: BBC Carried.

8

Item 7.1.2 – (8.1.4 – 6/11) & (7.1.2 – 4/11) - Review of the Murray and Mallee Regional Infrastructure Plan (Plan) – CEO, M&MLGA. Strategic Plan √ Annual Business Plan √ Gov’t Imposed √ Budget Implications × Budgeted √

Motion resolved: That the Report be received.

Moved: SMDC Seconded: RCMB Carried.

7.2 STRATEGIC ISSUES – ENVIRONMENTAL.

Item 7.2.1.1 – (ongoing) - SA MDBNRM Board. (Delegate Representation). Strategic Plan √ Annual Business Plan √ Gov’t Imposed √ Budget Implications × Budgeted × Motion resolved: That: 1) The Report be received, and 2) That Rod Ralph be sincerely thanked for the services he provided to the Association as Local Government Representative on the SA MDB NRM Board. Moved: RPC Seconded: RCMB Carried. ***** Consideration of a M&MLGA Local Government nominee to the SA MDB NRM Board ***** General discussion ensued. Motion resolved: That the CEO gather further information on the role of Local Government representative on the SA MDB NRM Board and provide the information to Member Councils and make provision in the next General Meeting Agenda for a call for nomination(s). Moved: BBC Seconded: DCLW Carried.

Item 7.2.3 – (8.2.2 – 6/11) & (7.2.2 – 4/11) & (7.2.2 – 2/11) & (8.2.2 – 12/10) & (7.2.2 – 10/10) & (7.2.2 – 8/10) & (8.2.2 – 6/10) & (7.2.2 – 4/10) & (7.2.2 – 2/10) etc. – Regional Waste Management Strategy. Strategic Plan √ Annual Business Plan √ Gov’t Imposed √ Budget Implications × Budgeted × The CEO advised that ZWSA are seeking preliminary advice through this Association from Member Councils with respect to waste infrastructure requirements, including previous unsuccessful funding applications that are expected to be required over the next 2 to 3 years.

9

Motion resolved: That: 1) The Report be received, and 2) that, as appropriate, Member Councils be encouraged to submit ZWSA Regional Implementation Funding Applications for the next funding round, and 3) the CEO seek the information required from each Member Council and advise ZWSA accordingly. Moved: SMDC Seconded: DCLW Carried.

7.3 STRATEGIC ISSUES – ECONOMIC. Item 7.3.1.1 – Regional Development Australia, Murraylands and Riverland Board Inc. (RDA Board) – Regional Update Report – ongoing. Strategic Plan √ Annual Business Plan √ Gov’t Imposed √ Budget Implications × Budgeted × Motion resolved: That the Report be received. Moved: RPC Seconded: MMC Carried. Item 7.3.1.2 – Regional Development Australia, Murraylands and Riverland Board Inc. (RDA Board) – Local Government nominations to the RDA Board. Strategic Plan √ Annual Business Plan √ Gov’t Imposed √ Budget Implications × Budgeted × The President called for nominations. General discussion ensued when it was generally agreed that the CEO confirm the term of office and advise Member Councils accordingly. Motion resolved: That the Association acknowledges that further time for consideration of nominations is required by both the Riverland and Murraylands sub-groups of Councils and that following receipt of information by Councils referred to above, that the CEO will be provided with the name of the nomination from each sub-group of Councils. Moved: RPC Seconded: BBC Carried. Item 7.3.2 – (7.3.3 – 4/11) & (7.3.3 – 2/11) & (8.3.3 – 12/10) & (7.3.3 – 10/10) & (7.3.2 – 8/10) & (8.3.2 – 6/10) & (7.3.2 – 4/10) & (7.3.2 – 2/10) etc. – Broadband Development - Regional Enhancement. Strategic Plan √ Annual Business Plan √ Gov’t Imposed × Budget Implications × Budgeted × Motion resolved: That the Report be received. Moved: DCLW Seconded: CDC Carried.

10

Item 7.3.3 – (8.3.2.2 – 6/11) & (7.3.2.2 – 4/11) - Special Local Roads Program (SLRP) Funding Applications – 2011-2012 Funding Round – CEO, M&MLGA. Strategic Plan √ Annual Business Plan √ Gov’t Imposed × Budget Implications × Budgeted × Motion resolved: That: 1) The Report be received, and 2) That Member Councils note the information standard for SLRP funding applications as required by the LGTAP. Moved: RCMB Seconded: SMDC Carried. 7.4 STRATEGIC ISSUE – SOCIAL.

Item 7.4.1 – (8.4.1 – 6/11) & (7.4.1 – 4/11) & (7.4.1 – 25/11) & (8.4.1 – 12/10) & (7.4.1 – 8/10) & (8.4.1 – 6/10) & (7.4.1 – 4/10) & (7.4.1 – 2/10) etc. – Community Transport Needs and Access (Status Report). Strategic Plan √ Annual Business Plan √ Gov’t Imposed √ Budget Implications × Budgeted × Motion resolved: That the Report be received and that the Association continues to provide support as and when required. Moved: MMC Seconded: DCLW Carried. 7.5 STRATEGIC ISSUE – GOVERNANCE.

Item 7.5.1 – M&MLGA Annual Report 2010-2011. Strategic Plan √ Annual Business Plan √ Gov’t Imposed √ Budget Implications × Budgeted ×

Motion resolved: That the Association’s Draft Annual Report 2010-2011

presented as APPENDIX 10, to which Audited Accounts 2010-2011 are to be appended, be adopted. Moved: RPC Seconded: MMC Carried.

11

Item 7.5.2 – (8.5.1 – 6/11) & (7.5.1 – 4/11) & (7.5.1 – 2/11) - Council Performance Improvement Program – CEO – M&MLGA.

Strategic Plan √ Annual Business Plan √ Gov’t Imposed × Budget Implications × Budgeted ×

Motion resolved: That the Report be received. Moved: BBC Seconded: RCMB Carried.

Item 7.5.3 – Local Government Research and Development Fund (LGR&DF) Annual Report 2010-2011 – Regional Capacity Building Grant. Strategic Plan × Annual Business Plan × Gov’t Imposed × Budget Implications × Budgeted ×

The CEO has completed and forwarded the Association’s Annual LGR&DF

Report, attached as APPENDIX 12. Motion resolved: That the Annual 2010-2011 LGR&DF Report be endorsed.

Moved: DCKEM Seconded: BBC Carried.

8. BUSINESS/AGENDA ITEMS SUBMITTED. (including CORRESPONDENCE, NOTICES OF MOTIONS, DISCUSSION ITEMS etc.) – other than those dealt with separately.

Item 8.1 - Viterra grain waste disposal to Council's waste transfer facilities – Southern Mallee District Council (SMDC) – Notice of Motion. General discussion ensued. Affected Member Councils were encouraged to liaise with their respective Works Manager to seek potential solutions. Motion resolved: On consideration of the regional and potential state-wide impacts of contaminated grain disposal utilising Councils’ waste handling systems that the Association refers this matter to: 1) the next Regional LGA CEO’s Meeting to confirm state-wide applicability, and 2) subsequently to the SAROC Committee to seek the support of the LGA to seek an acceptable waste disposal solution. Moved: RPC Seconded: DCLW Carried.

12

9. CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED LISTING.

Item 9.1 – Correspondence received – Listing – other than that dealt with separately.

Motion resolved: That the Correspondence Listing be noted.

Moved: SMDC Seconded: MMC Carried.

10. GENERAL BUSINESS:

An opportunity was provided for Members to raise items of general interest or significant issues that had arisen since the Agenda was formulated. General discussion ensued in respect to the potential attendance of the Minister at an Association General Meeting. Motion resolved: That the Minister for State/Local Government Relations be invited to the next General Meeting of the Association. Moved: MMC Seconded: BBC Carried. 11. GUEST SPEAKERS. There were no Guest Speakers for this Meeting. 12. CLOSE AND DATE OF NEXT MEETING: The President thanked all those who attended the Meeting. He made special mention of Renmark Paringa Council for the provision of the venue and the catering. The President declared the Meeting closed at 12.25 pm. General Meeting – 7th October, 2011 – Rural City of Murray Bridge Council area. Signed: ………………………………………… (President) 7th October, 2011.

Murray and MalleeLGA LGA

General MeetingGeneral Meeting

Water Reuse

Flinders University Rural Clinical School

Flood Levee Banks

Growth

Community EventsCommunity Events

Water ReuseWater Reuse

Wastewater Collection System

RenmarkRenmark

• 25 pumping stations • Delivering approximately 750kl/day to the

wastewater treatment plant (WTP). • Council has upgraded a majority of these stations to Council has upgraded a majority of these stations to

ensure compliance with relevant SA Health requirements.

• Council was successful in obtaining $527,000 in grant funding to undertake upgrade works at the Renmark Treatment PlantTreatment Plant.

Water ReuseWater Reuse

The project will comprise the following components:

• Reshape and deepen existing lagoon and install new synthetic liner – storage capacity 50MLStormwater harvesting• Stormwater harvesting

• Upgrade of chlorination , pumping & filtration system• Fencing of the facility• Information bay

Water ReuseWater Reuse

Paringa

• A new WTP and reuse of the reclaimed water was A new WTP and reuse of the reclaimed water was undertaken in 2007/2008.

• Concept required EPA, Department of Water and SA Health approval to utilise reclaimed water inside the normal 100m buffer zone from the River Murray.

• Lagoons were reshaped lined and integrated into • Lagoons were reshaped, lined and integrated into the wastewater treatment plant process train.

• All untreated effluent from the town is delivered directly to the WTP

• All treated effluent is discharged to the single lined lagoon (33.6Ml capacity)

Water ReuseWater Reuse

The WTP was commissioned in late 2008 with effluent irrigated to the adjacent oval and associated plantings.

Future Strategy

The Council will seek further infrastructure funding in an attempt to make Renmark Paringa Council TOTALLY NON-RELIANT on the River Murray.

Construction Completion

Flinders University Rural Clinical SchoolFlinders University Rural Clinical School

St St t & L l G t • Strong State & Local Government Support

• Allocated land- Renmark Paringa Ed ti P i tEducation Precinct

• Allocated $2m- RSFF

• Currently seeking between $20-$40m Currently seeking between $20 $40m in Federal Government funding

Flood Levee BanksFlood Levee Banks

• Met with Minister Caica 4 August 2011• Met with Minister Caica- 4 August 2011

• Joint funding - Department of Waterupgrade levee bankspg

• State not willing to except ownership of levee banks

GrowthGrowth

• Currently experiencing healthy supply of Currently experiencing healthy supply of Country Living & Residential allotments

• On market or nearing completion; 3 subdivisions – 73 allotments

• Stage 2 subdivisions currently being assessed; 2 submissions- 58 allotments

• At concept stage; 2 subdivisions- 109 allotmentsallotments

• Enquiries from Melbourne, Mildura and Northern Territory interested in commercial, community services and tourism development.

• Enquiries include supermarket, hardware, outdoor landscaping, restaurant, medical centre and holiday apartmentscentre and holiday apartments.

Community EventsCommunity Events

• Australian Mallee Fowl Forum- 29 JulyAustralian Mallee Fowl Forum 29 July

• National Drug Free Power Lifting Championships- 6 August

• Yamaha Motor Finance Enduro- 4 SeptemberYamaha Motor Finance Enduro 4 September

• Renmark’s 17th Rose Festival- 14-23 October

• Rotary District 9500 Conference- 21-23 October

P l H t hi L C t ‘H h R ’• Paul Hutchins Loan Centre ‘Hunchy Run’-29 October

• Chef’s on the Murray (Riverland Wine & Food Festival)- 13 November)

• Renmark Christmas Pageant- 2 December

• Time Machine (New Years Eve Celebration)-31 December

Fact SheetApril 201 1

What isregional integration?A new way of managing natural resources

The new Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) combines environment and natural resource

management in the one agency to create a single workforce to support Natural Resource Management (NRM)

Boards, the community, DENRand other government agencies.

The goal is straight forward - increase support for NRM Boards and provide integrated, easy to access, services to the

community.

Thisis the approach:

Better support the work of NRM Boards

Create a clear identity for our new service

Integrate the workforce of DENRand eight NRM Boards to improve service delivery

Work even more closely with our communities

Shift to a landscape approach across both public and private lands.

Regional integration is one aspect of NRM reform. At the same time we are reviewing the State NRM Plan and

working to better align environment and natural resource planning with development planning.

A single, integrated workforce

Natural resource management activities will be combined under one management structure with integrated support

services. A new regional delivery structure will bring regional NRM staff previously reporting directly to NRM Boards

together with regional DENRstaff to create a single, integrated workforce.

The role of NRM Boards will be strengthened with a clearer focus on support for communities to engage in planning

and decision making.

The new integrated service will build on past successes; we'll keep what's worked well and find solutions for things

that haven't.

'One stop shops' for natural resource information and services

Customers will need only visit one place to access environment and natural resource services. They will have the

option of visiting a physical location, or a virtual one. No more working out who delivers what - 'one stop shops' will

provide a full set of services.

Each region will have at least one shop-front, some regions may have several. The services they offer will vary to

meet the needs of the community they serve. The underlying principle for each will be to supply a full range of

services from one location.

They will be environment and natural resource management service hubs, providing a new face and focus forenvironment and natural resource service delivery.

2

They will be easily recognised by a brand that builds on the community's recognition of the current NRM Board

branding.

Leading the new service

The new regional delivery service will support NRM Boards to provide leadership to regional communities.

Regional Managers have been appointed as the first step in developing an integrated workforce. Regional delivery

staff, both DENRand NRM, support Regional Managers to manage natural resources according to an agreed

annual implementation plan.

These annual plans will be jointly developed and agreed in each region as the way in which the regional business of

each NRM Board and DENRis delivered.

Managing the work that needs to be done

A Regional Integration Taskforce is leading the work that needs to be done. The Taskforce is made up of several

internal and external groups and committees that each has a role in guiding the project.

Timing

The project will be implemented over two years to July2012. Important milestones include:

July 2011

Locations for eight 'one stop shops' identified

• Regional management teams appointed

Brand for new service developed

End 2011

Single public interface adopted for each region

Combined business planning has been mapped out (for NRM Board implementation plan and DENR

priorities for regional delivery)

July2012

Fully integrated, single workforce delivering regional environement and natural resource management

services

Glossary

NRM: Natural Resource Management

NRM Boards: Community-based boards whose members are appointed under the Natural Resources ManagementAct 2004

Regional, Regions: 8 environment and natural resource management regions across South Australia, encompassingrnetropoliton and rural areas

Regional NRM staff: Previously reporting to NRM Boards, now merging with regional DENRstaff into a single,

integrated natural resource management workforce

Regional DENRstaff: existing DENRemployees, now merging with regional NRM staff into a single, integrated natural

resource management workforce

More information

Regional Integration Team: DENRRegionalintegration@sa.gov.au

NRM Regional Integration ProjectIntegration ProjectUpdate for Murray and Mallee LGA 5 August 2011g

www.environment.sa.gov.au

Improving Natural Resources Improving Natural Resources Management

On 26 October 2010 Minister Caica launched ‘Improving Natural Resource Management in South Improving Natural Resource Management in South Australia: Regional Integration of South Australia’s Environment and Natural Resource Management Delivery’Delivery’

The plan is to be implemented over two years to December 2012

www.environment.sa.gov.au

Previous arrangementsPrevious arrangements

• Department of Environment and Heritage• 8 Natural Resources Management Boards• 8 Natural Resources Management Boards• Department for Water Land and

Bi di it C tiBiodiversity Conservation• 2-3 regional work forces

www.environment.sa.gov.au

A new environment and natural A new environment and natural resources arrangement

• DENR, a new department, combines conservation and natural resources management within one agencynatural resources management within one agency

• DENR’s role is to help Government and South Australians make good decisions about the environment and gnatural resources

• DENR seeks to place the community at the centre of i t d t l tenvironment and natural resources management

• DENR is to support Boards in working with regional communities industries & 3 levels of government on NRM

www.environment.sa.gov.au

communities, industries & 3 levels of government on NRM

Objective - Four elements of Regional IntegrationRegional Integration

1. A single regional face for natural resources management resources management

2. An integrated NRM workforce3. An increased emphasis on

collaborating, partnering and engaging local communities

4. A shift to landscape scale approaches

www.environment.sa.gov.au

4. A shift to landscape scale approaches

ImplementationImplementation• Aligning regional boundaries• Redesigning organisational arrangements • Redesigning organisational arrangements

• single management structure; shared and simplified support services

• Improving community relationships• single community interface on environment and natural

resources management issues; increased, more effective involvement in planning and delivery

• Improving communication and engagement • between DENR NRM boards local government stakeholders • between DENR, NRM boards, local government, stakeholders

and delivery partners

• Integrated and transparent planning and investment

www.environment.sa.gov.au

• scoping new opportunities

BOARDGOVERNANCE ROLE

DENRGOVERNANCE ROLE

REGIONAL DELIVERY MODEL

MECGOVERNANCE ROLE GOVERNANCE ROLE

MANAGEMENT ROLENRM Board

(statutory body)

CEDENR

NRM Plan

(statutory body)Annual Performance

AgreementDENR

3yr Business PlanREGIONAL MANAGER

DENRCorporate Plan

Annual

www.environment.sa.gov.au

Annual Implementation

Plan

DENRRegionalIntegration@sa gov auDENRRegionalIntegration@sa.gov.au

www.environment.sa.gov.au

- . 1\e-,.,., ~." ~cz0J~'""-I~\N I{ e- ~tf120 11 V .fD L I G t A • ti The orceI, oca overnm~n ssocra Ion of Localof South Australia Government•

Regional LGA Topical Report for August 2011In attendance: David Hitchcock and Alison McAllister

Local Excellence ProgramThe development of the Local Excellence Program is happening at a rapid pace. The "Local Excellence- Councils Working Together for Communities" program has four key themes which is being furtherdeveloped in consultation with Councils and stakeholders:

community engagementfunctional reform and management;efficiency and effectivenessgovernance

Two 'expert' sessions have been held with academics, consultants and legal advisers on the issues andseveral regional forums with CEOs to further refine issues to be addressed under the themes. Fourissues papers will be issued following the initial consultations.

For further information contact chris.russell@lga.sa.gov.au

Regional Development & Growing Country Communities Policy WorkIn recent weeks much work has been done to develop the LGA's draft policies on Regional Developmentand Growing Country Communities. A formal request for feedback has been sent to LGA memberCouncils and other regional development and country community stakeholders on the policies andresultant actions. The final draft of the policies and actions will be workshopped at a Presidents forumon 14 September, prior to being presented for adoption at the LGA AGM on 27 and 28 October 2011.For further information contact Emily.white@lga.sa.gov.au

LGA's 2011 Annual General MeetingThe LGA's 2011 Annual General Meeting and Associated Sessions will be held on Thursday 27 andFriday 28 October at the Adelaide Convention Centre.

Council Notices of Motion must be received by the LGA no later than 12 noon on Friday 16 September2011. Please refer to LGA Circular 24.10 or www.lga.sa.gov.au/goto/2011AGM for further information.

Ministerial meetingsThe President, Mayor Kym McHugh, Chief Executive Officer and senior LGA staff members continued tomeet with a wide range of Ministers and senior political figures including the new State/LocalGovernment Relations Minister, Russell Wortley (see item on Burnside), Regional Development Minister,Gail Gago, Environment Minister Paul Caica and Urban Planning and Development Minister, John Rau.

Carbon TaxOn Sunday 10 July 2011, the Prime Minister Julia Gillard launched the Clean Energy Future (CEF)package. This package contains action on 4 key policies: Carbon tax; Renewable energy; Energyefficiency; and Land use.

Key impacts for Local Government will be increased costs associated with electricity, fuel and wastemanagement however the Government has proposed a number of policies and funding packages toencourage investmemt in energy efficiency, renewable energy technology and improved land usepractices to offset these costs. The LGA will be working closely with the Australian Local GovernmentAssociation (ALGA) and other state associations to analyse and research the Governments CEFproposal and model its impact on Councils and their communities.

For more information on the Clean Energy Futures Package please refer to LGA circular 29.1 athttp://www.lga.sa.gov.au/site/page.cfm?c=237880rcontactadam.gray@lga.sa.gov.au

DME 70693Page 1

Review of Regional AirportsThe LGA, in partnership with the SA Tourism Commission, District Council of Grant and South EastLocal Government Association (SELGA), has appointed South Australian consultants Hudson Howells tocarry out a Regional Airport Study funded through the Local Government Research and Developmentscheme. The six month consultancy seeks to provide Local Government in South Australia with ablueprint to guide the sustainable management of airports under their control.

The Regional Airport Study, initiated by SELGA will look specifically at the management of airports in theSouth East region of South Australia. The intention is however, that recommendations and findings fromthe study, in the form of a report, will have a state-wide application and can be used by any regionalCouncil that has an airport under their control. A forum will be held in Adelaide to provide Council ownedairport managers with the opportunity to engage with the project consultant. For further informationcontact Emily.white@lga.sa.gov.au

The National General AssemblyThe NGA of Local Government was held in Canberra in June and was attended by a record number ofdelegates. For the first time in many years the Prime Minister Julia Gillard was a key note speaker at theforum along with Regional Australia, Regional Development and Local Government Minister SimonCrean, Climate Change and Energy Efficiency Minister, Greg Combet and Broadband Communicationsand the Digital Economy Minister, Senator Stephen Conroy.

Opposition Leader Tony Abbott, Greens Leader Bob Brown and Shadow Minister for Local GovernmentSenator Barnaby Joyce also addressed the meeting. The Lord Mayor of Auckland Len Brown spoke onamalgamation and being the first Mayor of the new Super City.

The Prime Minister, Minister Crean, Tony Abbott and Bob Brown reaffirmed their commitment to areferendum on Constitutional Recognition of Local Government.

A panel, headed by comedian David O'Loghlin, journalist Annabel Crabbe, economist and formerpolitician Dr John Hewson and communications consultant Jane Caro looked at the issue ofConstitutional Recognition and how to market the concept to the Australian public to ensure a Yes vote.For further information chris.russell@lga.sa.gov.au

Workforce Planning ProjectThe LGA has commenced the first stage of a Workforce Planning project that is undertaking sixcomprehensive workforce planning pilot projects - in small, medium and large country and metropolitanCouncils.The pilot Councils chosen from the expressions of interest (see LGA Circular 13.6) were MunicipalCouncil of Roxby Downs, Renmark Paringa Council, Naracoorte Lucindale Council, City of Prospect,Adelaide Hills Council and City of Onkaparinga.

During July all employees in the pilot Councils are being encouraged to complete a survey that willprovide information to assist with the preparation of comprehensive workforce plans and workforcedevelopment strategies for each of the Councils. The workforce development strategies will cover skillsgaps, staff retention, succession planning, recruitment, training, mentoring, resource sharing andcollaborative initiatives/practices.

The work undertaken by the pilot Councils will lead to the development of a Local GovernmentWorkforce Planning Manual and other workforce planning templates and tools to assist all SA Councilswith undertaking this task.

For further information contact Sandy Semmens, LGA Program Manager Training, Development andResearch Scheme by email sandy.semmens@lga.sa.gov.au or phone (08) 8224 2026.

Emergency Management• .Review of Emergency Management Act

DME 70693Page 2

A position paper has been endorsed by the Senior Executive Committee and forwarded to a specialcommittee of the State Emergency Management Committee for consideration. The primaryrecommendation is that a section be included under the "umbrella" of the Emergency Management Act,requiring a Council to prepare and maintain an emergency management plan for its area based on an"all hazards" approach incorporating the framework of prevention, preparedness, response and recovery

• Review of Disaster Insurance Issues for Local GovernmentThe ALGA has engaged John Comrie and Associates to conduct a National review. The LGA Secretariathas contributed an information paper to this review. For further information contactNeville. hyatt@lga.sa.gov.au

Solid Waste Levy ReviewThe LGA sought a review of the Solid Waste Levy, which the Minister for environment and conservationagreed to. CEO, Wendy Campana, has been appointed to the working committee facilitating the review,as has, CEO of Charles Sturt (LGA representative on the Zero Waste SA Board) Mr Mark Withers. Thereview is being undertaken by the Alien Consulting Group on behalf of Zero Waste SA.

The review will contain recommendations and modelling of alternative Solid Waste Levy structures, but itwill not be a policy position of the State Government. Zero Waste SA has indicated that any policydevelopment or change resulting from this report would be consulted on. The report is due to bereleased towards the end of July. For further information contact simon.thompson@lga.sa.gov.au

Libraries issuesThe LGA is continuing to negotiate with the Government regarding State subsidy for public libraries andis continuing to work on the One Library Management System project. For further information contactcate.atkinson@lga.sa.gov.au

Burnside investigationThe Minister and the President of the LGA have agreed to work together to address some of the issuesarising from the investigation. These issues include the way in which the Local Government Act 1999enables an investigation into a Council to be conducted; Councils' ability to deal with Elected Members'conduct; and the ability to manage friction among Members. For further informationandrea.malone@lga.sa.gov.au

Planning Reforms UpdateThe State Government is currently in the process of establishing 'Regional Planning Forums' to assist inthe development of a regional approach to delivering the Planning Strategy and will bring togetherCouncils, Regional LGAs, State Agencies, Regional Development Boards and Natural ResourcesManagement Boards. The Forums should provide an effective tool for aligning Development Plans withthe Planning Strategy, and help to identify potential Development Plan changes to be included in futureStrategic Directions Reports. Councils in the Greater Adelaide Region are currently preparing StrategicDirections Reports in response to the finalisation of the Plan for Greater Adelaide and the update of theSouth Australian Strategic Plan.

Work is continuing in relation to governance and implementation processes under the Plan for GreaterAdelaide; the review of the Development Plan Amendment process; and updating of the planning policylibrary which builds on the Better Development Plans Project begun in 2007. Legislative reforms includea joint LGAlDPLG review of the Residential Development Code, and a re-evaluation of the systemindicator data currently required to be collected by Councils, State Agencies and the ERD Court. TheLGA is currently developing a survey for Councils in relation to Development Plan Amendments, whichwill be sent to all Councils shortly. For further information contact megan.leydon@lga.sa.gov.au

Public Health Act 2011The Public Health Act 2011 has been passed by State Parliament and will gradually replace the Publicand Environmental Health Act 1987 in stages over the next two years. This new Act seeks to provide amodernised, flexible legislative framework, so South Australia can better respond to new public healthchallenges as well as traditional hazards.

DME 70693Page 3

There are a number of new elements in this Act, but it seeks to maintain and improve on many of theprovisions within the current legislation. It focuses on minimising the risk of communicable diseases,preventing chronic conditions, promoting the early notification of contaminants in food and theenvironment and provides a framework for taking action on the social determinants of health.

The Act was developed over a number of years following extensive discussions and consultation withLocal Government, Environmental Health Australia and other key stakeholders. The LGA will continueto work with Councils and SA Health to implement the Act and introduce the changes detailed within it.

Immunisation UpdateA core component of South Australia's immunisation program is the School Based ImmunisationProgram (SBIP) which has been delivered by local Councils for more than a decade and for which LocalGovernment's involvement dates back to the introduction of Diphtheria vaccinations in 1932.

The current service contract arrangement in place between SA Health and Local Government to deliverthe SBIP is set to expire on 31 December 2011 and as a result, the LGA Secretariat has initiatednegotiations with SA Health on updating the service and funding arrangements for the SBIP.

These discussions are in the preliminary stage and additional information will be provided to all Councilsby LGA Circular as it becomes available.

LGA Training Courses/SeminarsThe LGA Education and Training Service is offering a variety of training courses and seminars forCouncil Members and Staff in 2011. The Program is available on the Education & Training page of theLGA website at www.lga.sa.gov.au/goto/training. Councils are encouraged to register their CouncilMembers and Staff online at www.lga.sa.gov.au/gotolregistertraining. A July 2011 to June 2012Program will be provided in June 2011. Mini Programs for apeciaiist areas/groups are also available onthe Education and Training page. For further information contact Patricia Coonan, on 8224 2044 orpatricia.coonan@lga.sa.gov.au.

Online Training Modules for Council MembersThe LGA has six online training modules available to assist Council Members. The modules have beendesigned to complement the face to face training programs run by the LGA Education and TrainingService and Council in-house induction programs. For further information on this training please seeLGA Circular 50.7 or contact your CEO and/or Governance Manager.

Regional Training SessionsThe LGA Education and Training Service has scheduled training sessions in regional areas for variouscourses. Could you please encourage your Council Members and Staff to register? We need a minimumof 10 participants for the sessions to go ahead. Session information is available on the LGA website atwww.lga.sa.gov.au.

DME 70693Page 4