Notice of Meeting · 6.5 Summary on Energy Forum 40 6.6 SA Power Networks 42 6.7 Community Passenger Networks45 6.8 Update on Rubble Royalties 47

ECM 647713 SAROC Committee Meeting Agenda 16 March 2017

Notice of Meeting

Notice is hereby given that a meeting of the South Australian Regional Organisation of Councils (SAROC) will be held on

Thursday 16 March 2017 at 10:00am

Boardrooms at Local Government House

148 Frome Street, Adelaide

Matt Pinnegar

Chief Executive Officer

9 March 2017


SAROC Committee Members

Chairperson Mayor Erika Vickery* Naracoorte Lucindale

Region Representatives and Proxies

Central LG Region

Mayor Peter Mattey (Chairperson) Goyder

Mayor Denis Clark (Deputy Chairperson) Northern Areas

Deputy Member: Mayor Allan Aughey (Deputy Chairperson)

Clare & Gilbert Valleys

Deputy Member: Cr Bim Lange (LGA Board) Barossa

Mr David Stevenson Executive Officer

Eyre Peninsula LGA

Mayor Bruce Green (President) Port Lincoln

Deputy Member: Mayor Sam Telfer (Deputy President)

Tumby Bay

Mr Tony Irvine Executive Officer

Limestone Coast LGA

Mayor Erika Vickery (Presiding Member)* Naracoorte Lucindale

Deputy Member: Mayor Richard Sage (Deputy Presiding Member)

Grant

Mr Dominic Testoni Executive Officer

Murraylands & Riverland LGA

Mayor Dave Burgess (President &

LGA Immediate Past President)

Mid Murray

Mayor Peter Hunt (Vice President)* Berri Barmera

Mayor Neville Jaensch (Proxy) Coorong

Deputy Member: Mayor Brenton Lewis Murray Bridge

Mr Peter Bond Executive Officer

Southern & Hills LGA

Mayor Bill Spragg (Presiding Member) Adelaide Hills

Mayor Keith Parkes (Deputy Presiding Member)

Alexandrina

Deputy Member: Mayor Glen Rowlands Yankalilla

Mr Graeme Martin Executive Officer

Spencer Gulf Cities

Mayor Sam Johnson (Chairperson) Port Augusta

Deputy Member: Mayor John Rohde (Deputy Chair)

Port Pirie

Ms Anita Crisp Executive Officer

Observer

LGA President Mayor Lorraine Rosenberg Onkaparinga

*LGA Vice Presidents


Agenda

Item Page

1 Present & Apologies

1.1 Present

1.2 Apologies: Nil

2 Minutes of Previous Meeting

2.1 Minutes of meeting held on 25 January 2017 5

2.2 Resolutions and Actions from Previous meetings 12

3 Invited Guest Speakers

Ms Karyn Kent, Chief Executive Officer, Study Adelaide will speak regarding Temporary Graduate Visas (Subclass 458) and the Employer Portal.

4 LGA President’s Report 19

5 Regional Executive Officers’ Meeting

A verbal update if required

6 Reports for Discussion

6.1 Regional Election Strategy 21

6.2 Council Contributions to E-Planning Portal 28

6.3 Future Towns Future Cities Economic Development 31

6.4 Federal Mobile Phone Black Spot Program 36

6.5 Summary on Energy Forum 40

6.6 SA Power Networks 42

6.7 Community Passenger Networks 45

6.8 Update on Rubble Royalties 47

6.9 LGA Governance Review Update 48

6.10 Council DPTI Jetty Agreements 55

7 Confidential Reports

Nil


8 Late Reports

Nil

9 Any Other Business

10 Next Meeting

The next meeting will be held on Wednesday 17 May 2017 at 4.00pm at a regional location to be confirmed.

11 Close

2017 Meeting Dates

17 May (Regional location tbc) 19 July

27 September 15 November (Regional location tbc)

Local Government Association of South Australia

2.1 Minutes of Meeting held on 25 January 2017

Minutes of Previous Meeting

From: Jacqui Kelleher, Manager Executive Services

Meeting SAROC Committee 16 March 2017

ECM: 647712 Attachment: 646697

Recommendation

That the SAROC Committee confirms the minutes of its meeting held on 25 January 2017 as a true and accurate record of the proceedings held.

Discussion

The draft minutes of the SA Regional Organisation of Councils (SAROC) Committee meeting held on 25 January 2017 are attached.

SAROC Committee Meeting Agenda - 16 March 2017 - Page 5 of 56

ECM 646697 SAROC Committee Meeting – Draft Minutes – 25 January 2017

Draft Minutes of the South Australian Regional Organisation of Councils meeting held on Wednesday 25 January 2017 at 8.27am at Local Government House, 148 Frome Street, Adelaide.

1. Welcome and Election of SAROC Chair

Ms Lisa Teburea LGA Executive Director Public Affairs opened the meeting and welcomed members and staff. As the Deputy Returning Officer for the South Australian Regional Organisation of Councils Committee, she called for nominations for the position of Chairperson for a period of up to 12 months.

Mayor Green nominated Mayor Vickery, who accepted the nomination.

Moved Mayor Green Seconded Mayor Jaensch that the SAROC Committee elects Mayor Vickery as Chairperson to hold office for a period of 12 months commencing 25 January 2017.

CARRIED

Mayor Vickery took the Chair at 8.30am and thanked members for the continued opportunity.

2. Present & Apologies

2.1 Present

Name Region

Mayor Denis Clark Central Local Government Region

Mayor Peter Mattey Central Local Government Region

Mr David Stevenson (Executive Officer) Central Local Government Region

Mayor Bruce Green Eyre Peninsula LGA

Mayor Sam Telfer (Deputy) Eyre Peninsula LGA

Mayor Erika Vickery Limestone Coast LGA

Mayor Richard Sage (Deputy) Limestone Coast LGA

Mr Dominic Testoni (Executive Officer) Limestone Coast LGA

Mayor Dave Burgess (LGA Immediate Past President)


Mayor Peter Hunt Murraylands & Riverland LGA

Mayor Neville Jaensch Murraylands & Riverland LGA

Mayor Brenton Lewis (Deputy) (from

9.40am)


Page 1 of 7

Version: 4, Version Date: 31/01/2017Document Set ID: 646697



Mr Peter Bond (Executive Officer) Murraylands & Riverland LGA

Mayor Bill Spragg (from 8.40am) Southern & Hills LGA

Mayor Keith Parkes Southern & Hills LGA

Mayor Glen Rowlands (Deputy) Southern & Hills LGA

Mr Graeme Martin (Executive Officer) Southern & Hills LGA

Ms Anita Crisp (Executive Officer) Spencer Gulf Cities

Observer:

Mayor Lorraine Rosenberg LGA President

LGA Secretariat:

Matt Pinnegar Chief Executive Officer

Lisa Teburea Executive Director, Public Affairs

Lea Bacon Director Policy

Andrea Malone (from 9.40am) Director Legislation

Stephen Smith Director Policy

Neville Hyatt Senior Policy Officer

Astrid Crago Administration Coordinator (minutes)

2.2 Apologies

Mayor Allan Aughey (Deputy) Central Local Government Region

Mr Tony Irvine (Executive Officer) Eyre Peninsula LGA

Mayor Sam Johnson Spencer Gulf Cities

Cr Bim Lange (Deputy) Central Local Government Region

Mayor John Rohde (Deputy) Spencer Gulf Cities

3 Minutes of Previous Meeting

3.1 Minutes of the meeting held 16 November 2016

Moved Mayor Hunt Seconded Mayor Mattey that the SAROC Committee confirms the minutes of the meeting held on 16 November 2016 as a true and accurate record of the proceedings held.

CARRIED

Page 2 of 7




3.2 Resolutions and Actions from previous meetings

Moved Mayor Hunt Seconded Mayor Spragg that the SAROC Committee notes progress with resolutions resulting from the 16 November 2016 meeting and outstanding resolutions from earlier meetings.

CARRIED

4 Invited Guest Speakers

Scott Loechel, LG Functional Support Group Project Manager gave a presentation on the Local Government Functional Support Group. Mayor Kevin Knight and CEO Mr John Moyle, from the City of Tea Tree Gully, shared their experiences of the Sampson Flat bushfire.

5 LGA President’s Report

Mayor Rosenberg gave a verbal update and answered questions from members.

Moved Mayor Telfer Seconded Mr Peter Bond that SAROC recognise and formally thank Mr David Hitchcock for his many years of service.

SAROC congratulated Mayor O’Loughlin on his election as ALGA President.

Moved Mayor Hunt Seconded Mayor Green that the SAROC Committee noted the LGA President’s Report.

CARRIED

6 Regional Executive Officers’ Meeting

No update as no meeting has been held since the last update.

7 Reports for Discussion

7.1 Population Policy

Moved Mayor Jaensch Seconded Mr Bond that the SAROC Committee:

1. notes the report;

2. refers the need for continued advocacy for a South Australian population policy to the LGA Board;

Page 3 of 7




3. requests that the LGA Board confirms the position that a populationpolicy should guide:

a. Population growth and decline in and between regions (includingthe metropolitan region)

b. Impacts of an ageing population

c. Labour force and skills

d. Migration policy

e. Maintaining and enhancing liveability for regional, rural andremote communities

f. Demands on infrastructure provision, particularly transport,community facilities, essential services and broadband;

4. requests that the LGA work with other groups such as EDA, CEDA andUDIA to advocate for migration reform and population growth; and

5. requests that the LGA work with regional LGAs to identify specificopportunities and targets for regional growth capacity.

CARRIED

7.2 Draft Borrow Pit Guidelines

Moved Mayor Mattey Seconded Mr Testoni that the SAROC Committee:

1. notes the report; and

2. recommends to the LGA Board that the Guidance: Quarry and borrowpit rehabilitation in South Australia (November 2016) be adopted,subject to sign off by all regions within a two month timeframe.

CARRIED

7.3 Storm Events – State Power Supplies

Moved Mayor Clark Seconded Mayor Green that the SAROC Committee :


2. endorses the LGA submission to the Review of the Extreme WeatherEvent.

CARRIED

Page 4 of 7




7.4 Outreach Program

Moved Mr Bond Seconded Mr Testoni that the SAROC Committee defers consideration of this matter until the State Government has finalised its review.

CARRIED

7.5 Section 270 Ombudsman Recommendations

Director Legislation, Andrea Malone gave a verbal update.

Moved Mayor Burgess Seconded Mr Martin that the SAROC Committee:


2. notes that reports on this matter submitted separately by Eyre Peninsula LGA and Southern and Hills LGA have been combined into one report;

3. strongly urges all regional LGAs and individual councils to respond to the Ombudsman’s audit report by 31 March 2017; and

4. encourages the LGA secretariat to assist those regions who adopt the regional approach to managing internal reviews of decisions, by providing training for individuals/ panel members etc.

CARRIED

7.6 Study Adelaide and 485 Visa Holders

Moved Mayor Jaensch Seconded Mayor Burgess that the SAROC Committee:


2. invites Study Adelaide CEO, Karyn Kent to present to a future SAROC meeting about Study Adelaide and 485 Visa Holders.

CARRIED

8 Confidential Items

Nil.

9 Late Reports

Nil

Page 6 of 7




10. Any Other Business

Mayor Green spoke about the next Regional meeting to have Port Lincoln as a venue.

Mayor Parkes offered Alexandrina as another venue.

11 Next Meeting

The next meeting of the SAROC Committee will be held on Wednesday 15 March 2017 at 4.00pm at Local Government House, 148 Frome Street, Adelaide.

12 Close

The meeting was declared closed at 9.50am.

Minutes confirmed

…………………………………….

Chairperson signature

Date ………………………………

Page 7 of 7




2.2 Resolutions and Actions from Previous Meetings

Minutes of Previous Meeting

From: Jacqui Kelleher, Manager Executive Services



Recommendation

That the SAROC Committee notes progress with resolutions resulting from its meeting of 25 January 2017 and outstanding resolutions from previous meetings.

Discussion

The attachment to the report shows progress of resolutions from previous meetings of the SAROC Committee.



Resolutions from the SAROC meeting – 25 January 2017

Update

7.1 Population Policy Moved Mayor Jaensch Seconded Mr Bond that the SAROC Committee: 1. notes the report; 2. refers the need for continued advocacy for a South

Australian population policy to the LGA Board; 3. requests that the LGA Board confirms the position

that a population policy should guide:

a. Population growth and decline in and between regions (including the metropolitan region)

b. Impacts of an ageing population

c. Labour force and skills

d. Migration policy

e. Maintaining and enhancing liveability for regional, rural and remote communities

f. Demands on infrastructure provision, particularly transport, community facilities, essential services and broadband;

4. requests that the LGA work with other groups such as EDA, CEDA and UDIA to advocate for migration reform and population growth; and

5. requests that the LGA work with regional LGAs to identify specific opportunities and targets for regional growth capacity.

CARRIED

This item was referred to and adopted by the LGA Board.

Advocacy activities related to population policy will be ongoing.

7.2 Draft Borrow Pit Guidelines Moved Mayor Mattey Seconded Mr Testoni that the SAROC Committee: 1. notes the report; and 2. recommends to the LGA Board that the Guidance:

Quarry and borrow pit rehabilitation in South Australia (November 2016) be adopted, subject to sign off by all regions within a two month timeframe.

CARRIED

A Circular was issued on 1 February 2017 seeking feedback on the guidelines from member councils by 31 March 2017.

See Circular 5.5

Following consultation a copy of the guidelines will go to the LGA Board.



7.3 Storm Events – State Power Supplies Moved Mayor Clark Seconded Mayor Green that the SAROC Committee : 1. notes the report; and 2. endorses the LGA submission to the Review of the

Extreme Weather Event.

CARRIED

The Terms of Reference for the Review and LGA submission are available in LGA circular 4.10

7.4 Outreach Program Moved Mr Bond Seconded Mr Testoni that the SAROC Committee defers consideration of this matter until the State Government has finalised its review.

CARRIED

This item should refer to the LGA Governance Review, rather than a State Government review.

7.5 Section 270 Ombudsman Recommendations Director Legislation, Andrea Malone gave a verbal update. Moved Mayor Burgess Seconded Mr Martin that the SAROC Committee: 1. notes the report; 2. notes that reports on this matter submitted

separately by Eyre Peninsula LGA and Southern and Hills LGA have been combined into one report;

3. strongly urges all regional LGAs and individual councils to respond to the Ombudsman’s audit report by 31 March 2017; and

4. encourages the LGA secretariat to assist those regions who adopt the regional approach to managing internal reviews of decisions, by providing training for individuals/ panel members etc.

CARRIED

The LGA has agreed to provide training support to any regions which choose to adopt the panel model for s270 reviews.

7.6 Study Adelaide and 485 Visa Holders Moved Mayor Jaensch Seconded Mayor Burgess that the SAROC Committee: 1. notes the report; and 2. invites Study Adelaide CEO, Karyn Kent to present

to a future SAROC meeting about Study Adelaide and 485 Visa Holders.

CARRIED

Karyn Kent, Study Adelaide, has confirmed her availability and will speak at the March 2017 SAROC meeting.



Resolutions from the SAROC meeting – 16 November 2016

Update

6.1 Opal Wellbeing

Moved Mayor Jaensch Seconded Mayor Agnew that the SAROC Committee:


2. endorses the approach of the LGA President to:

a. advocate for a funding partnership with the State and Federal Governments for funding mechanisms for establishment of a Community Wellbeing program to be embedded in the regional and metropolitan LGA structures; and

b. request the State Government to release the Opal Program “evaluation report” to the LGA for circulation to Regional LGA’s and Constituent Councils.

CARRIED

The LGA Immediate Past President (Mayor D Burgess) has progressed discussion with the State Government on this matter which was also discussed (and supported) at the 14 December Premiers Local Government Forum.

The LGA and SA Health are in negotiations on partnership arrangements, including funding.

The OPAL evaluation report has been publicly released.

6.2 Speed Management and Road Safety

Moved Mayor Clark Seconded Dominic Testoni that the SAROC Committee:


2. endorses the Limestone Coast LGA as the trial region for the proposed pilot approach to the regional road safety management strategy; and

3. recommends the LGA Board request the LGA President contact the Minister for Road Safety to seek a timely and supportive decision for the establishment of a joint local/state government working group to develop a regional road safety management strategy.

CARRIED

The CEO Limestone Coast & a LGA representative met with the Minister's Advisor on 22 Feb 17. Summary outcomes: Minister unlikely to impose blanket speed reductions but does want to see some road speed limits reduced. Unlikely that road speed limits will be increased. The Minsters default position is 100kph and road fatalities reduced. No commitment to additional road funding. LC will approach MAC for another road safety program.



6.3 Road Safety

Moved Dominic Testoni Seconded Mayor Hunt that the SAROC Committee


2. recommends the LGA Board requests the LGA SA Secretariat to enter discussions with the Motor Accident Commission to consider adopting the Limestone Coast model for Regional Community Road Safety Awareness throughout rural and regional South Australia.

CARRIED

Lea Bacon, Director Policy, is representing the LGA Secretariat on DPTI’s Safe System Working Group. This issue with be raised with the MAC at the next meeting on 11 April 2017.

6.4 State Power Supplies

Tony Irvine provided a verbal update.

Moved Mayor Green Seconded Mayor Mattey that the SAROC Committee:


2. recommends the LGA Board request the LGA President to:

a. subject to outcomes of the COAG Energy Council meeting called in relation to the security of the SA power network, write to the Australian Energy Market Operator expressing urgency on requiring explanations for the causes of the recent State Black Out Event;

b. correspond with Electranet requesting the status of their asset replacement program and intentions to increase energy supply capacity on the Eyre Peninsula. In addition, requesting the status of the old line and if or how it will be maintained and used;

c. correspond with SAPOL requesting a report from emergency services organisations, detailing outcomes from event debriefs and what learnings/changes have arisen from the power outage event;

d. request that the State Government supply their future emergency management planning strategies/ actions to mitigate future

A letter has been written to AEMO seeking assurance that mitigative measures are now in place to restore power outage more expeditiously. AEMO has not responded.

Electranet CEO Steve Masters has responded (ECM 647304) advising that a number of options are being examined for the replacement of the ageing infrastructure.

The SA Government has appointed the Department of Premier and Cabinet (DPC) as the lead agency to organise the Government's response to the Burn's Review. The Burns Review has made 62 recommendations all of which have been allocated to a lead



communication blackout events such as experienced on Eyre Peninsula and other regions of the state as this could result in life threatening situations. (ie no 000 available for emergencies); and

e. correspond with Peter Malinauskas MLC suggesting that State Government resourcing for advertising on what to do in the event of a fire, be broadened to include other emergency situations and that there be an expansion of the Community Education Officer role especially with regards to communication.

CARRIED

government agency to prepare a response. The LGA met with DPC and highlighted a number of the recommendations that are directly applicable to local government. As a result the various agencies have committed to consulting the LGA in the preparation of their response.

The Minister has acknowledged our letter.

7.3 Automated Fire Danger Signs

Moved Mayor Mattey Seconded Mayor Spragg that the SAROC Committee recommends that the LGA Board request the LGA Secretariat to lobby for funding by the State Government (Country Fire Service) for the introduction of automated fire danger rating signs in South Australia.

CARRIED

The LGA has written to the Minister of Emergency Services in response to his letter declining to support the introduction of the signs Statewide. The LGA has suggested an alternate approach of conducting a trail in a number of selected councils to test the effectiveness of the proposal. The LGA has also included this in its budget pitch to the State Government.



Resolutions from the SAROC meeting – 28 September 2016

Update

1. Welcome and Election of a SAROC Chairperson

Mr David Hitchcock, Director Infrastructure welcomed members and staff. As deputy returning officer for the election of South Australian Regional Organisation of Councils Committee, he recommended that the election for a new Chairperson be postponed until the LGA Board elections had been finalised.

Moved Mayor Johnson Seconded Mayor Jaensch that the SAROC Committee:

1. postpones the election of a new SAROC Committee Chairperson until conclusion of the LGA Board elections; and

2 that Mayor Vickery continues as Chairperson until that time.

CARRIED

Completed.

Mayor Erika Vickery was elected as SAROC Chairperson in January 2017.



4. Report from the LGA President – March 2017

Recommendation

That the SAROC Board notes the report.

Rate capping

The Liberal Party’s motion to introduce rate capping amendments into the Government (Boundary Adjustment) Amendment Bill 2016 currently before Parliament was recently defeated in the Lower House. This follows their attempts to legislate rate capping through the Bill they introduced last year, which was voted down by the Government. Regardless of these outcomes, they have committed to taking this policy to the 2018 State Election. The LGA will continue to oppose the introduction of rate capping in our State, and run a public awareness campaign in 2017 to protect communities from cuts to council facilities and services.

2017 Public awareness campaign

The LGA’s 2017 public awareness campaign is part of a three-phase strategy to positively position the local government sector in the lead up to the next State Election, and our ongoing efforts to educate, activate and encourage communities to support the extent and value of services provided by councils. While this work will be led by the LGA, it will require a coordinated and collaborative sector-wide effort, and I have written to all South Australian councils asking for them to commit to supporting and leveraging our campaign through their own marketing and communications channels.

Transparency and accountability

I met with the Minister for Local Government on 27 February to discuss issues of transparency and accountability in our sector. We believe local government is already the most transparent sphere of government, but acknowledge there is further work that can be done to improve the consistency of reporting across the sector in relation to allowances and benefits. The LGA will now undertake to develop guidelines to help clarify items that must be included on salary and allowance and benefits registers, as well as a “model register” which can be adapted or adopted by councils.

Annual Member Survey

We have written to all elected members and council chief executives regarding the LGA’s 2017 Annual Member Survey. We are committed to continued improvement, and are seeking feedback from member councils both on our performance and areas of focus. The feedback we receive through this survey will be incorporated into our business planning for 2017/18, and help the LGA to prioritise what it works upon for the benefit of members.



New Shadow Minister

Following a recent front bench re-shuffle, David Pisoni has replaced Steven Griffiths as the new Shadow Minister for Local Government. David also holds the shadow ministries of planning, transport and infrastructure. I met with David on 21 February to brief him on key issues for our sector, and impress on him on our commitment to working across all levels of government on policies that will benefit our communities. David confirmed with me that the Liberal Party intends on taking its rate capping policy to the 2018 State Election.

Since the reshuffle Steven Griffiths has announced he will retire from parliament at the 2018 election, and I wish him well in his future endeavours.

Liquor Licensing Reforms

The LGA has raised concerns with the Minister for Consumer & Business Services that the Government’s proposed liquor licensing reforms will negatively impact on communities through limiting local government involvement to the planning process. For example, if a development approval does not restrict operating hours, under the Government’s proposed Bill a council may not be able to seek reduced operating hours to be imposed on a subsequent liquor license. We believe that council members provide the liquor licensing authority with a unique and valued insight into the history of licensed premises within a particular area, and the potential sensitivities surrounding these premises that may not be revealed through a planning process.

457 Visas

Last year the LGA wrote to the Minister for Education, the Hon Susan Close MP, about the Government’s decision to charge 457 visa workers with a household income of $77,000 public schools fees of up to $6,100 per child. Unfortunately, the Minister has recently declined our request to reconsider the introduction of this new fee. Many regional and rural firms rely heavily on 457 visa holders to fill key positions in their communities, including doctors, lecturers, graphic designers, meat workers, and accountants, and it doesn’t make sense to put up barriers which will make it harder for communities to attract these workers. We will continue to call on the Government to work with councils and stakeholders to develop a population policy, encompassing migration, the impacts of an ageing population, labour force and skills, and demands on infrastructure.


6.1 Regional Election Strategy

Reports for Discussion

From: Anita Crisp, Executive Officer, Upper Spencer Gulf Common Purpose Group

Key Initiative: K.I 1 Leadership and advocacy

Strategy: 1B Contribute to state-wide and local policy


ECM: 647528

Recommendation

That the SAROC Committee:

1. supports the ‘Making Regions Matter’ 2018 election strategy concept; and

2. encourages all regional LGA’s to participate.

Background

In the lead up to the 2014 South Australian election, the EPLGA and Central Region jointly hosted a forum for elected members and key stakeholders, from which an election platform specifically addressing regional SA was developed.

The forum involved a range of politicians, academics and experts, with decentralisation of population, decision making and funding the core theme of the election platform.

A coordinated campaign involving all regional LGA’s via direct correspondence, meetings with candidates/MPs and media then occurred, seeking three high-level commitments from candidates and political parties:

1. A commitment to 30% of South Australia's population to be based outside GreaterAdelaide, with a particular focus on growing our regional service centres;

2. A commitment to a strong 'Regional Investment' program to support infrastructuredevelopment in regional South Australia; and

3. A commitment to at least 30% of the State Government public service to be based inregional South Australia.


Discussion

With just over 12 months until the 2018 election, it will be important for planning ahead of another regional campaign to commence now.

Whilst there have been changes within Councils and community leadership since the last election, the key issue of gaining a genuine commitment by the next Government to decentralise the state and grow our regions, seems to remain an overarching priority that unites us all.

At a local level, most issues – from ageing infrastructure, cuts to hospital, health and education services, to extended electricity outages, increasing cost of levies without a commensurate return in services, ‘one size fits all’ reporting and duplication of bureaucratic processes – are all symptoms of centralised decision making.

With the trend of independents and minor parties holding the ‘balance of power’ likely to continue, the timing and the potential to effect real change cannot be under-estimated.

Whilst work has already commenced to update the content and data from the 2014 election document, the core themes appear to remain relevant in seeking a fundamental shift in the way a future Government sees and deals with regions.

To progress this regional election strategy, the next steps would be to seek support from SAROC; along with confirmation and commitment from all regional LGA’s towards:

1. Endorsement and co-sponsoring the decentralisation campaign by all regional LGAs 2. Involvement in another regional forum with MPs, academics and experts 3. Working with regional LGA member Councils to develop a list of:

• Top 3 local projects for each district (not necessarily council) • Top 3 ‘issues’ for each district

4. Working with other stakeholders in each region and member Councils to maximise and amplify key ‘decentralisation’ messages over the coming year through a wide range of communication channels, including media, direct discussions with community groups/MPs, newsletters etc.

It should be noted that whilst media/policy/political/network support from the LGA will be greatly appreciated, the campaign will ultimately need to be led by the regional LGA’s.

LGA Comment (Officer: Lea Bacon, Director Policy)

It is recommended that the regional election strategy is aligned with the LGAs public awareness campaign being rolled out to positively position the local government sector in the lead up to the next state election in March 2018.

Endorsed by the LGA Board, this campaign is part of ongoing efforts to inform, activate and encourage our communities to support the extent and value of services provided by councils. It is consistent with the unanimous decision from councils to reject rate capping at the LGA Ordinary General Meeting in April 2016.

On 3 March 2017, the LGA President wrote to all Mayors asking them to support the campaign. A copy of the letter and draft report to councils is attached.

In addition to the awareness campaign, the LGA is finalising a state budget submission that will lead into a state election strategy. It is recommended that a regional election strategy share some links with this work to create consistent sector-wide messaging.


SAROC may also wish to review the proposed campaign slogan of ‘Making Regions Matter’, which is not too distinct from the SA Liberal’s ‘Regions Matter’ campaign.

Financial and Resource Implications This activity has been anticipated in the LGA’s work program and resources are available to progress this work.


ATTACHMENT

2018 South Australian Election – Draft Regional Campaign

“MAKING REGIONS MATTER” Introduction

Strong regions are the building blocks for a strong state. Regional South Australia contributes $20 billion towards the state's economy, around quarter of a million jobs and 50% of exports. Around one quarter of the national barley crop1 and half of the nation's wind power2 is produced in country South Australia. Our wine industry contributes around $2.2 billion to the South Australian economy3 and provides two thirds of Australia's wine exports. We are a national leader in the seafood industry with the largest and most diverse aquaculture industry in the nation4. Mining potential in regional South Australia is ranked in the top 12 jurisdictions in the world, with minerals export already contributing over $2.7 billion towards the state's economy5. Rural South Australian's are custodians of most of our state's remaining native vegetation and wildlife habitat, scenic landscapes, agricultural land, rivers and coasts. Our regions offer a safe, affordable lifestyle, job opportunities, a strong sense of community with high levels of volunteering and local investment into services and facilities. But in comparison to other states, South Australia is well behind the mark in supporting country areas. Victoria has a long history of supporting growth of its regions, including a $1 billion 'Regional Growth Fund' which makes additional investment in regional infrastructure, services and facilities over and above existing State Government department core programs and infrastructure. Western Australia's 'Royalties for Regions' program quarantines 25% of mining royalties received by the state government for regional areas and has so far invested just under $7 billion into more than 3,700 local projects with a further $1 billion per year committed for the next four years. The Queensland 'Royalties for the Regions' initiative is investing $495 million for four years in new and improved community infrastructure projects that benefit those who live, work and invest in regions, along with an ongoing commitment of $200 million each year6. There are 29 regional cities in Australia with populations over 30,000 and 8 with populations over 100,0007. None are in South Australia. It is the role of Government to ensure that regions have the enabling infrastructure and services to help build strong communities where people want to live, work and do business8. We are seeking commitment from all candidates and parties to three strategic policy initiatives to secure the future growth and prosperity of regional South Australia.

1ABARES; 2012; Australian Crop Report – Prepared by the Australian Bureau of Agricultura and Resource Economics and Science June 2012 No 162; Australian Government 2 Green D; 2012; Clean Energy Australia Report 2012; Clean Energy Council 3 Background Paper: The Oversupply of Winegrapes in South Australia An analysis by Peter Hackworth, Executive Officer, Wine Grape Council of South Australia (updated November 2011) ; http://wgcsa.com.au/wp-content/uploads/Background-Paper-SA-Wine-Industry-Review-November-2011-Update.pdf 4 South Australian Seafood Industry Food Plan 2010 – 2015; South Australian Seafood Industry Federation Inc; Fishing Industry House PO Box 2099 Port Adelaide SA 5015 5 SACOME; Mining in South Australia ; http://www.sacome.org.au/images/stories/MINING_IN_SOUTH_AUSTRALIA_2.pdf 6 Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning 2013, Royalties for the Regions Progress report 2013 Round 1; State of Queensland, Brisbane 7 Greater Capital City Statistical Areas and Significant Urban Areas; accessed http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_cities_in_Australia_by_population 8 O'Neil M, 2013, pers. comm; 'Making Regions Matter' forum April 2013


1. GROWING OUR REGIONAL CENTRES Goal: 30% of South Australia's population to be based outside Greater Adelaide, with a particular focus on our regional service centres including Port Pirie, Whyalla, Port Augusta, Mt Gambier, Port Lincoln and Murray Bridge. Rationale: South Australia is well behind other states when it comes to being pro-active about growing regional centres. There are 29 regional cities in Australia with populations over 30,000 and 8 with populations over 100,000. None are in South Australia. The South Australian Strategic Plan commits country regions to simply maintaining a share of 18% of the state's population. Yet nationally, over 30% of Australians live in a regional area. Interstate centres like Bendigo, Ballarat, Mildura, Albury-Wodonga, Armidale, Wagga Wagga, Toowoomba, Rockhampton, Townsville, Geraldton, Albany, and Launceston are a result of a commitment to decentralisation and aspiration by Government to develop prosperous, thriving and self-sustaining regional centres. Our regional cities and towns offer an affordable, safe and relaxed lifestyle with a strong sense of community. There is existing capacity in our schools and hospitals, affordable housing, job opportunities and a high level of local support for population growth. Committing to actively growing country centres offers a chance to stop the urban sprawl of metropolitan Adelaide, provide more workers for our rural industries and support a secure future for our regions.


2. ROYALTIES FOR OUR REGIONS Goal: A 'Regional Investment' program to support enterprise and infrastructure development in regional South Australia. Rationale: South Australia is well behind other states when it comes to investing in regional infrastructure.

Over the past eight years, Western Australia's 'Royalties for Regions' program has invested just under $7 billion into more than 3,700 local projects and has committed to a further $1 billion per year for the next four years. The revenue is derived by quarantining 25% of mining royalties received by the state government for regional areas. Similarly, the state 'Royalties for Regions' initiative in Queensland is investing $495 million for four years in new and improved community infrastructure, roads and floodplain management projects that benefit those who live, work and invest in regions, along with an ongoing commitment of $200 million each year. Victoria also has a long history of actively supporting growth of its regions, including a $1 billion Regional Growth Fund which makes additional investment in regional infrastructure, services and facilities over and above existing State Government department core programs and infrastructure.

Last year mining royalty revenue to the SA Government was worth about $221 million. If a ‘Royalties for Regions’ program was in place that quarantined 25% of this revenue for country communities, it would have meant a direct investment of $55 million to regional SA last year – a trebling of the state’s current $15 million Regional Development Fund.

Based on the SA Government’s own budget figures, mining royalties are estimated to grow to about $278 million by 2019/20, potentially returning just under $70 million per annum to country communities. A stronger funding commitment from Government for regional economic and social infrastructure demonstrates confidence in our regions that is needed to facilitate and leverage certainty and investment by the private sector.


3. LOCAL DECISION MAKING Goal: 30% of the state government public service to be based outside Greater Adelaide. Rationale: South Australia is well behind other states when it comes to actively connecting regional communities with government agencies. The South Australian Government employs 100,000 people, amounting to 81,000 full time equivalent jobs, earning an average salary of $76,400. The ongoing centralisation of the public service to Adelaide has meant a direct loss of jobs and residents living and working in regional South Australia. In addition, the number of state agencies without any ongoing local presence in the Upper Spencer Gulf, or with senior policy or decision makers has also declined, resulting in a disconnect that is often reflected in statewide policy and decision making. Not only does this impact on rural jobs and population, but the more the public service is centralised into Adelaide, the more policy decisions are formed through a 'city' lens and the more connection with the country is lost. Put simply, government is losing touch with the impact of their decisions on regional areas and is perpetuating a lack of confidence in regional areas. Making an active commitment to substantially increase the number of public servants living and working outside of Adelaide promotes confidence in our regional centres and provides more efficient, practical and relevant support that will help further grow our regions and add value to our existing contribution to the state and the nation. Furthermore, locating regionally-focussed agencies such as Country Health, Country Arts, Regions SA in the metropolitan capital city does little to build confidence and credibility of State Government in the regions. Relocating these agencies into regional centres provides much needed new jobs and a new mix of skills into the community; and reinforces the Government’s commitment to the whole of South Australia, not just the metropolitan area.


6.2 Council Contributions to E-Planning Portal


From: Tony Irvine, Executive Officer, Eyre Peninsula Local Government Association


Strategy: 1A Listen to, and represent members


ECM: 647527

Recommendation

That the SAROC Committee recommends to the LGA Board that the Minister for Planning:

1. be advised that local government does not support the proposed contributionbasis proposed for the establishment and maintaining of the new SA PlanningPortal,

2. requests the Department for Planning Transport and Infrastructure (DPTI) todiscuss with the LGA Secretariat a more equitable approach to establishingand maintaining the planning portal, and

3. not implement the contribution requirement by councils for the SA Planningportal in 2017/18 in recognition that many councils have already commencedbudget setting processes for 2017/18.

Discussion

As part of the implementation of the Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act 2016 a South Australian Planning Portal has been developed for the purpose of containing information, documents and materials required to be published and updated under this act. This system is scheduled to commence on 1 July 2017.

Whilst there is no objection to the system itself, members’ are concerned with the schedule of fees to apply requiring a minimum $4,000 contribution from each individual Council. It is suggested that this system should operate in the same way as the Electronic Development Application Lodgement and Assessment System (EDALA) where users of EDALA contribute through standard fees charged for each application.

The EDALA system was introduced around 2004 with no cost to council and once persons became familiar with its operation has proved to be an asset and makes the land division process more efficient.

The Eyre Peninsula Local Government Association Board from its 27 February 2017 meeting advises that the member Councils of the Eyre Peninsula Local Government Association totally object to the proposed schedule of fees for the development and operation of the SA Planning Portal. Furthermore that it directed it’s Executive Officer to bring the financial imposition to the attention of the Local Government Association of South Australia and seek to have a system introduced which operates in the same way as the Electronic Development


Application Lodgement and Assessment (EDALA) system where users contribute by way of the standard fees charged for each and every application.

The DPTI Fee Proposal is as such:

A two part Council fee commencing in July 2017 comprising a $4000 flat fee applicable to all Councils plus a second component indexed to development values of the council as below:-

Over $10m $32,000

Over $50m but less than $100m $24,000


Less than $10m $ 4,000 (Flat fee only will apply)

This schedule will harvest a minimum of $272,000 for DPTI to develop and maintain the portal on an annual basis.

The EPLGA considers the following schedule to be far more equitable, particularly for the smaller councils with limited development:-

Base fee for all Councils $500

Development Values:

$0 to $1m $500

Over $1m but less then $5m $1,000






Over $50m $35,000

LGA Comment

(Officer: Stephen Smith, Director Policy)

The proposed fees as outlined above were identified in the 2016/17 State Budget papers and included in the LGA’s response to the budget. Concerns about the fees have been raised with the Government and Opposition about the fee schedule, and in particular that the Government is seeking to recover (over approximately 14 years) 100% of the costs of the e-planning system through council contributions and user charges.

Under Section 56 (4) of the Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act 2016, the LGA is required to be consulted in relation to any cost contribution in establishing and maintaining the SA planning portal.

The PDI Act has not commenced and therefore, the requirement for consultation under Section 56 has not been fulfilled.

The LGA Secretariat has posed a number of questions to DPTI about how the proposed fees will work and we are still endeavouring to get answers so that councils can prepare their budgets for 2017/18.


Financial and Resource Implications

This activity has been anticipated in the LGA’s work program and resources are available to progress this work.


6.3 Future Towns Future Cities Economic Development


From: Sean Holden, Senior Policy Adviser

Key Initiative: K.I 2 Capacity building and sustainability

Strategy: 2C Equip councils for the future


ECM: 647596

Recommendation That the SAROC Committee:


2. recommends to the LGA Board that the Board endorse “Future Towns, FutureCities” as the communication theme for the Economic Development activitiesof the LGA in 2017; and

3. provides to the Secretariat the following ideas for further “Future Towns,Future Cities” events during 2017:

a). … b). … c). …

Discussion

It is proposed that the LGA’s Economic Development theme for 2017 to be “Future Towns, Future Cities”.

This communication theme will be the umbrella term for a number of initiatives that the LGA Secretariat will work with and for member councils during 2017. Events are proposed that will explore the notion that technology will both define and inform the planning, budgeting, administration and operations of councils.

Other events and activities will highlight that reform, bench-marking, best-practice adoption, kindred organisation relationships and the delivery of community wellbeing outcomes is the way forward.

Future Towns, Future Cities will also be used as a communication theme in LGA advocacy; an example is the LGA advocacy on Small Bars, population growth and the Thirty Year Plan for Greater Adelaide.

Throughout 2017 the Secretariat will stage key interactive events that pick up on these tenants linked to the LGA Statement on Economic Development and the 11 Priorities. Four events have been planned up until the end of June 2017 (see Attachment); further events will be planned for the remainder of 2017.

The idea is to bring to councils in one place those funds, projects, programs, tools and individuals with the knowledge to help councils plan and deliver.


These four events which have been planned reflect what councils have indicated are priorities for them and what we of The Secretariat believe would be useful topics for exploration for and with councils. The LGA Secretariat will seek input into events to be planned for the second half of 2017.

By giving the economic development function of the LGA a theme and a calendar of events it is hoped that councils can better inform themselves, us and other councils.

It is policy of the LGA to form greater relationships with the other two spheres of government, kindred organisations and the business community. It is hoped via these four events an environment of trust, respect and understanding grows that will lead to greater collaboration and consideration particularly in policy settings and initiatives.

Financial and Resource Implications This activity has been anticipated in the LGA’s work program and resources are available to progress this work.


Future Towns Future Cities Economic Development – Planned Events 2017

Friday 10 March “Mainstreets Placemaking and Smart Cities”

Originally an initiative of the Metropolitan Local Government Group (MLGG) in 2016 this will be a day to discuss the merits and learnings for councils and businesses of Mainstreets, placemaking and smart cities.

Setting the headspace will be Dr Ruth Rentschler from the University of South Australia, then the Property Council of South Australia will present on its “Mainstreets: A Best Practice Guide”, and before the lunch-break the Mayor of the City of Prospect and President of the Australian Local Government Association David O’Loughlin will take attendees on a walk of the mainstreet of Prospect highlighting the deliberate and planned transformation.

Mainstreet SA will talk to four South Australian case studies of award-winning councils and what they have done with their “High Street”. To complete the day Beth Worrall from The Smart Cities Studio will provide cutting-edge ideas as to how councils might embrace technology in their placemaking that will assist businesses grow.

LGA Economic Development Priorities: Local Infrastructure, Investment Attraction, Planning, the Digital Economy, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Tourism and Small Business.

Outcomes: For South Australian councils to share ideas in placemaking and demonstrate how technology and Smart Cities thinking and practice can be used to transform Mainstreets. Identification and capture of projects that councils have planned. This information could assist councils in multi-jurisdictional bids and afford the LGA SA an opportunity to advocate on their behalf. Knowledge share, relationship building (between councils, Property Council of SA, Adelaide City Council and the University of South Australia) and networking is at the core of this event.

Invitees: Metropolitan and Non-metropolitan Mayors and CEO’s, Managers in Economic Development, Infrastructure & Public Works, Planning & Design, Engineering & Assets, Events, Community and Customer Services, Capital Works and ICT. Business people and State and Federal Government officers.

Attendees: 60-100

Wednesday 22 March “Gaming improves community wellbeing…or are they just space invaders” The Great Debate III & Masterclass

The third instalment in the LGA’s very popular and highly successful Great Debate series this initiative will argue the toss about whether or not gaming, think Pokemon Go, and geo-spatial technology is good or bad for councils and communities.

Intuitively and from what we saw on news media the sight of the “look-down generation” wandering seemingly aimlessly searching the streets for a non-existent creature, gaming is bad. Gaming is dangerous, unsocial and annoying with no redeeming features or is it?

Two teams debating the negative and positive will be drawn from South Australia’s intelligencia for your entertainment pleasure. Mediated by Mark Withers, Chief Executive Officer City of Port Adelaide Enfield the confirmed debaters include: Stephen Yarwood (former Adelaide Lord Mayor & Urban Futurist @ city 2050), Amanda Growcock (CEO Rundle Mall Authority), Jessica Citizen (Player Attack), Michael McKeown (Director Jensen Plus), Alex Reid (Deputy Chief Executive DSD) and Andrew Aitken (CEO Adelaide Hills Council).


Once the dust has settled Futurist and former Adelaide Lord Mayor Steven Yarwood will deliver an interactive masterclass designed to show councils how this “phenomenon” can be turned in economic social wellbeing advantage.

LGA Economic Development Priorities: Local Infrastructure, Investment Attraction, Planning, the Digital Economy, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Tourism and Small Business.

Outcomes: For South Australian councils to share ideas in placemaking and demonstrate how technology can be used to transform Mainstreets, public places, grow local businesses and the identification and capture of projects that councils have planned. This information could assist councils in multi-jurisdictional bids and afford the LGA SA an opportunity to advocate on their behalf. Knowledge share, relationship building and networking is at the core of this event.

Invitees: Metropolitan and Non-metropolitan Mayors and CEO’s, Managers in Economic Development, Infrastructure & Public Works, Planning & Design, Engineering & Assets, Events, Community and Customer Services, Capital Works and ICT. Business people and State and Federal Government officers.

Attendees: 60-100

Budget: Participants will also be charged to attend BOTH the morning “Great Debate” and the afternoon “Masterclass”. Price to be determined.

Monday 3 April “Smart Communities”

The Australian Federal Government has as its core the infrastructure policy setting the “Smart Cities” Plan. Many councils around Australia already have a Smart Cities strategy and officers tasked with coordinating transformation in its infrastructure via technology.

We wish to broaden the discussion and work with “Smart Communities” as it better reflects the fact that the LGA is comprised of metropolitan and non-metropolitan councils.

Given the rapid rate at which technology is advancing and the many innovative ways councils are achieving positive outcomes from the better use of energy, resources and services, the Smart Cities paradigm will be part of not just the now but also the next.

Invited to present on the Federal Government’s two key Smart Cities initiative, “City Deals” and “Smart Cities and Suburbs” will be two Senior Officers from the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet. This will give attendees to raise questions and test their own projects against the criteria. From the LGA Chris Russell will provide an update on the “State and Local Government Infrastructure Partnership Fund”, Andy Legrand from Salisbury Council will talk about the “Public Lighting Project” and Bret Morris from Gyre Digital will introduce “Councils and the Digital Economy: A Diagnostic Tool”

LGA Economic Development Priorities: Local Infrastructure, Investment Attraction, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Planning and the Digital Economy.

Outcomes: For South Australian councils to be in the best position to attract the greatest share of the monies available for infrastructure projects. Identification and capture of projects that councils have planned. This information could assist councils in multi-jurisdictional bids and afford the LGA SA an opportunity to advocate on their behalf. Knowledge share, relationship building and networking is at the core of this event. This event will also serve as the launch of “Future Towns, Future Cities”.

Invitees: Metropolitan and Non-metropolitan Mayors and CEO’s, Managers in Economic Development, Infrastructure & Public Works, Planning & Design, Capital Works and ICT.


Attendees: 60-100

Friday 9 June “Local Government in Tourism”

Staged to deliberately be a little off-centre the Local Government in Tourism Workshop will launch the “Festivals and Events Guide for Local Government” This tool was developed via the LGA’s Research and Development Fund.

Engaging with The Fringe Festival organisers has meant that they will open the day replicating an actual debriefing meeting where councils can see just what issues they deal with and what learnings they have derived from the most recent instalment of the outrageously successful festival.

From the South Australian Tourism Industry Council Shaun de Bruyn will update attendees on the SA Tourism Awards and the part service excellence plays in the tourist economy.

The CEO of the SATC Mr Rodney Harrex will tell us where the money is for our events and festivals and the final part of the day will be spent pulling apart the guide to bring it alive. Experts in risk management, insurance, sponsorship, marketing and communications will give their time for event coordinators to upskill and discuss new event ideas.

LGA Economic Development Priorities: Investment Attraction, Planning, the Digital Economy, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Tourism and Small Business.

Outcomes: For South Australian councils to share ideas in festivals and events, explore the notion of the “tourist economy” and grow local businesses. Promote the role Festival and Events Coordinators play within councils and arm them with sufficient tools to grow that section of their local economy. Identification and capture of festivals and events that councils have planned. That events have appropriate rigour attached via risk management and insurance. This information could assist councils in multi-jurisdictional events and afford the LGA SA an opportunity to advocate on their behalf. Knowledge share, relationship building and networking is at the core of this event.

Invitees: Metropolitan and Non-metropolitan Mayors and CEO’s, Managers in Economic Development, Events, Community and Customer Services. Business people and State and Federal Government officers.

Attendees: 70


6.4 Federal Mobile Phone Black Spot Program


From: Peter Bond, CEO, Murraylands & Riverland Local Government Association





Recommendation



2. requests the LGA Board to advocate for a higher level of fundingcommitment from both State and Federal Governments for the establishmentof more mobile phone towers to resolve the poor, marginal and no mobilecoverage in many areas throughout regional South Australia.

Discussion

In many areas throughout regional South Australia there is poor, marginal or no mobile phone coverage. In the last round of Federal Government funding under the Federal Mobile Phone Black Spot Program, the South Australian Government allocated $2 million dollars as a co-contribution to assist in the business cases for the funding for the establishment of mobile phone towers throughout South Australia.

It is understood that other States co-contributions were significantly more to better ensure Federal funding for mobile phone towers to overcome poor, marginal and no coverage in such States. It is considered that both Local Government and the State Government are being penalised by the Federal Government, whose responsibility it is to fund this program and who have the significant percentage of taxation funds in Australia. Councils and even the State Government find it difficult to contribute to this program, which is essentially a purview of the Federal Government.

The Mid Murray Council undertook a review of all digital services involving mobile phone coverage, broadband/NBN, radio and television. The report indicated a number of areas throughout Council where there continues to be poor, marginal or no mobile phone coverage. In the Eden Valley bushfires for example, some residents did not have any coverage during this event.

The Murraylands and Riverland Local Government Association would like to highlight, through the South Australian Regional Organisation of Councils (SAROC), the poor, marginal and no mobile phone coverage in many areas throughout the Murraylands and Riverland and the need for both State and Federal funding for the establishment of phone towers to provide this service.


LGA Comment

(Officer: Lea Bacon, Director Policy)

The LGA’s State Budget Submission 2016/17 included a request that the State Government commit further investment for mobile black spots and this issue will be once again raised in the 2017/18 State Budget Submission.

The LGA is a good position to continue its advocacy to both state and federal governments for greater investment to address mobile phone black spots in South Australia. The LGA already has an endorsed policy position to seek greater state government co-contributions for mobile blackspot funding to deliver regional tourism growth, economic development, and health and education outcomes across all South Australia.

The attached LGA briefing paper provides further detail.

Financial and Resource Implications This activity is anticipated in the LGA’s work program and can be delivered within existing LGA resources.


Mobile Black Spots LGA Policy Position

The LGA seeks greater state government co-contributions for mobile blackspot funding to deliver regional tourism growth, economic development, and health and education outcomes across all South Australia.

Key Messages / Speaking Points

• As the level of government closest to communities, local government understands that lack of mobile phone coverage is a great concern for our regional communities.

• The LGA through SAROC has identified numerous black spot locations around the State.

• Some of these will be addressed from Round 1 of the Commonwealth’s funding program, launched in June 2015; however South Australia will get just 11 out of almost 500 new or upgraded mobile base stations that will be built under this investment.

• Further, South Australia was the only State that did not co-contribute to the previous round (Round 1) of mobile black spot funding.

• As the State Government declined to become substantially involved in Round 1, only some remote and isolated aboriginal communities received upgraded telecommunications.

• Local government welcomes the state government’s commitment of $2 million as a co-contribution towards Round 2 in 2016-17. However, much more is needed to get a fair deal and sufficient coverage of many of our regional and remote communities.

• The state government has a view that ‘telecommunications’ is the responsibility of the Federal Government and that the States should not be greatly involved in addressing this issue.

Background

Inadequate mobile phone coverage remains a significant issue for Australians living, working and travelling in regional areas of the country. The 2011/2 Regional Telecommunications Review identified a lack of adequate mobile voice and broadband coverage as the issue of greatest concern to regional communities. While Optus, Telstra and Vodafone Hutchison Australia collectively claim to provide mobile coverage to 99 per cent of the population, this level of coverage reflects Australia’s highly urbanised population this equates to only around 25 per cent of the landmass.1

The Federal Government’s Mobile Black Spot Program is delivering 499 new and upgraded mobile base stations across Australia. In June 2015, the Government committed $100 million through Round 1 of the program, which aims to improve mobile phone coverage and competition in regional and remote Australia.

1 https://www.communications.gov.au/what-we-do/phone/mobile-services-and-coverage/mobile-black-spot-program


https://www.communications.gov.au/what-we-do/phone/mobile-services-and-coverage/mobile-black-spot-program

The Commonwealth funding for round 1 was supplemented by Telstra ($165 million) and Vodafone ($20 million). In addition, five state governments have co-contributed towards round 1: NSW ($24 million), Victoria ($21 million), Queensland ($10 million), Western Australia ($32 million) and Tasmania ($0.35 million). An additional $1.7 million has been provided by local governments, businesses and community organisations.

Round 2 was announced this in February 2016, with applications and successful applications to be announced this year. In the State budget submission, the LGA sought a commitment from the State Government for a co-contribution for mobile black spot funding. The Government has agreed to commit $2 million (with $1 million allocated from the Regional Development Fund).

Investments to be made through Round 2 of the program were announced in Dec 2016. Of the 266 sites to be upgraded across Australia, only 20 are located in South Australia.

The funding announcement has been a source of controversy between the Government of SA and the Coalition Government. The SA Government has written to the Auditor General requesting a full investigation into this programme as the lack of transparency in deciding sites is of significant concern to the South Australian government. In particular, the SA Government has expressed concern that ‘high-risk’ sites (such as areas impacted during Pinery fires) were not selected for funding by the Federal Government.

The Coalition Government has committed to Round 3 of the Mobile Black Spot Program. The competitive process for Round 3 locations is expected to commence in early 2017.

Next steps

The LGA is a good position to advocate to both state and federal governments for greater investment for South Australia

External references

• Department of Communications and the Arts https://www.communications.gov.au/what-we-do/phone/mobile-services-and-coverage/mobile-black-spot-program

• ALGA submission to the original; discussion paper: http://alga.asn.au/site/misc/alga/downloads/submissions/2014/Submission_to_the_Mobile_Coverage_Program_Discussion_Paper.pdf



6.5 Summary on Energy Forum


From: Andrew Haste, Acting Chief Executive Officer, LGA Procurement

Key Initiative: K.I 3 Best practice and continuous improvement



ECM: 647524

Recommendation

That the SAROC Committee notes the report.

Discussion

The Electricity Forum held on Monday 6 March 2017 attracted over 90 council staff and elected members. The forum, hosted by LGA Procurement delivered a detailed discussion regarding the future of procuring electricity for the sector for 2018 and beyond.

The program covered topics including how the current energy security and pricing is affecting the overall economic wellbeing of the state, an understanding of the national electricity market including the short and longer term outlook for pricing, State Government policies and initiatives to promote greater competition and innovation in electricity generation and security and alternative procurement methods for SA councils as well as showcasing several examples of how councils are working towards using less energy and/or producing their own electricity.

During a question and answer session, the Treasurer and Minister for Mineral Resources & Energy the Hon Tom Koutsantonis MP confirmed that the State Government is using procurement power to incentivise a new base load entrant.

The meeting also heard from DPC about the State’s energy procurement process, and were told that councils are welcome to partner with the Government on this work, but this would involve sharing risk and entering into at least a decade-long agreement.

There were also case studies presented by Marion and Tea Tree Gully councils on energy efficiencies and on-site generation which are indicative of the great work our sector is doing to minimise the impact of rising costs on rate payers.

The forum gained an understanding of the energy market in our State which remains a complex and challenging environment, and the need to continue to work together to achieve the best outcomes for communities is evident.

LGAP will be announcing the results of their search for consultancy services to assist with the purchasing of electricity and market advice very soon, and also presenting a recommended strategy to councils in preparing for future electricity requirements post 2017.

A copy of the presentations will be made available via LGA Circular shortly.






6.6 SA Power Networks


From: Peter Bond, CEO, Murraylands & Riverland Local Government Association


Strategy: 1B Contribute to state-wide and local policy


ECM: 647523

Recommendation



2. pursues concerns in relation to the poor response times by SA PowerNetwork to outages, particularly in regard to the need for remotely basedcrews to attend and how this may affect those with medical conditions thatrequire power to support their treatment.

Discussion

In South Australia, SA Power Networks lie at the heart of our ability to provide a sustainable energy supply across the state in in doing so to manage the significant potential impacts of extreme weather events and the resultant power outages that occur from time to time. Many of our critical regional community assets including hospitals have not been designed with these risks in mind. And they have not been adapted to ensure they can maintain healthcare services during such events and the prolonged periods of power outages that have resulted.

Individually, health services workers do a remarkable job in coping with such events. However, the buildings they work in and the infrastructure that supports them often constrain their ability to respond.

During the 2014 heatwave in South Australia, when Adelaide became the hottest place on the planet, heart attack rates increased by more than 300%. Other emerging extreme weather health risks include asthma from bush fires, increasing waterborne and vector diseases such as malaria, dengue fever and typhoid, dehydration and heat exhaustion, and physical injury from flying debris and floods.

There are many reports of hospital buildings and infrastructure failing during extreme weather events in Australia.

Most recently, after super-cell thunderstorms blacked out South Australia, back-up generators failed at an Adelaide hospital and serious concerns were raised over the welfare of many within the rural community dependant on regular medical care.

In the face of ongoing power outages in this State, the hospitals and the health system in general face many challenges in servicing remote and rural communities across South Australia. Research by the University of NSW identified a long list of issues, including:


http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2016.1165856?journalCode=rcme20

http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2016.1165856?journalCode=rcme20

http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/09613218.2016.1097805?journalCode=rbri20

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/jan/16/adelaide-heatwave-could-break-all-records-pipping-461c-mark-set-in-1939

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/jan/16/adelaide-heatwave-could-break-all-records-pipping-461c-mark-set-in-1939

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-03-02/australia-underprepared-to-deal-with-killer-heat-report-says/7212408

https://theconversation.com/smoke-from-bushfires-poses-a-health-hazard-for-all-of-us-11493

https://theconversation.com/is-climate-change-to-blame-for-outbreaks-of-mosquito-borne-disease-39176

https://theconversation.com/is-climate-change-to-blame-for-outbreaks-of-mosquito-borne-disease-39176

https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/malaria

https://theconversation.com/a-tale-of-three-mosquitoes-how-a-warming-world-could-spread-disease-43471

https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/typhoid-and-paratyphoid

https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/dehydration

https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/heatstroke

http://www.emeraldinsight.com/doi/abs/10.1108/17595901111167097

http://www.emeraldinsight.com/doi/abs/10.1108/17595901111167097

http://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/2016/09/29/adelaide-hospitals-back-power-fails

http://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/2016/09/29/adelaide-hospitals-back-power-fails

• underfunded building and infrastructure maintenance and capital works programs

• poor road access for new patients and back-up medical supplies

• generators built in basements prone to flooding

• lack of accommodation for staff trapped on site

• poor coordination with other emergency and health agencies such as aged care

• access roads being cut off

• managers who do not understand the role of buildings in healthcare delivery

• buildings and infrastructure that cannot adapt to changing healthcare needs and patient surges during extreme weather events.

The impacts of extreme weather on regional and rural community infrastructure and the health system in general have been neglected in the realm of disaster planning. Apparent poor response times by SA Power network during the last outage only compound this problem.

In the high-pressured, resource-stretched, highly politicised and hierarchical health sector, current disaster management practices too often overlook the role of adequate response times in the regional areas of South Australia. It’s time this was addressed before more of our rural community are exposed to medical risk.

LGA Comment


While the LGA does not have an endorsed policy position regarding response times to power outages, this recommendation aligns with a series of requests made to the LGA Board from the SAROC committee’s 16 November 2016 meeting regarding State Power Supplies.

On the issues raised in this report, SAROC may wish to give consideration to the Victorian Government’s Local Infrastructure Investment Fund, which is providing $40 million to fund back-up diesel generators in residential care facilities throughout regional and rural Victoria including aged care, supported residential services, disability, mental health, and alcohol and drug rehabilitation facilities, where residents are critically reliant on power for their health and wellbeing. This initiative was made in response to the findings of the 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission. Further information is available here: Local Infrastructure Assistance Fund.

(Officer: Neville Hyatt, Senior Policy Officer, Emergency Management)

While the thrust of the recommendation is supported i.e. better response times for rectification of power outages, there are some concerns with some of the health related claims made in the SAROC report. The Burns Review examined the impact of the September blackout on hospitals and concluded that (p22):

Overall both metropolitan and country hospitals generally stood up well during the event.

However, the Review does note that generators failed at Port Augusta and Cummins Hospitals and that the Flinders Medical Centre had particular well publicized issues, but that apart from these exceptions back-up generation in hospitals worked well (p23).


http://www.delwp.vic.gov.au/energy/electricity/powerline-bushfire-safety-program/local-infrastructure-assistance-fund

http://www.delwp.vic.gov.au/energy/electricity/powerline-bushfire-safety-program/local-infrastructure-assistance-fund


This activity is not currently anticipated in the LGA’s work program, but can be delivered within existing LGA resources.



6.7 Community Passenger Networks


From: David J. Stevenson, Chief Executive Officer, Legatus Group




ECM: 647522

Recommendation

That the SAROC Committee notes the report.

Discussion

Legatus Group remains concerned by the considerable unrest and uncertainty about the potential change in funding for Community Passenger Networks (CPN) with the introduction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme.

The Legatus Group has four CPN’s in its region covering approximately 130,000 residents, the biggest in regional South Australia. There is significant community involvement in CPN’s across the Legatus region, there are approximately 500 volunteers, a significant capital investment in operational transport and an administrative system supported by Local Government. CPN’s provide a critical service to regional communities without which many regional residents would not be able to reach medical appointments or be able to enjoy the opportunity to be outside their homes.

We have canvassed all regional Local Government associations to ascertain if they have similar concerns for their Local Government residents with a resounding echo of support for a continued push to seek clarity from State and Federal Governments about what if any changes will occur to CPN funding under the NDIS commencing in 2018.

It should be acknowledged Local Government does not operate all CPN’s. In some cases, private not for profit providers operate CPN’s such as the Red Cross.

Each CPN operated by Local Government has slightly different arrangement in terms of their contribution to the operating cost of the CPN they are involved in. However, in all cases a significant contribution is made by Local Government to the operations of CPN far beyond the cash component and the beneficiaries are our communities and ensuring their independence and resilience.

The current funding comes from the three tiers of government. The Commonwealth through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme, the State through the Home and Community Care Funding and the Department of Planning Transport and Infrastructure and lastly Local Government.

There is no doubt if Commonwealth funding that is currently directed to CPN and/or State funding was not to continue under the NDIS or in some other form Local Government would be placed in a difficult position to continue to offer the CPN services they do now.



This is a critical service for the elderly, those without support networks, and the disabled. Local Government needs to know now how to appropriately plan of their communities in terms of the Community Passenger Network.

Correspondence has been sent to the Honourable Zoe Bettison MP Minister for Communities and Social Inclusion in an effort to seek clarity from the State and also to encourage her to raise the issue with her Federal Government colleagues.

Legatus Group have also met with Rowan Ramsay MP who has agreed to raise the issue direct with the Honourable Greg Hunt MP Minister for Health.

LGA Comment


The LGA Secretariat supports the recommendation and notes the advocacy efforts outlined in the discussion.

SAROC may wish to note that funding arrangements for CPNs may also be impacted by ongoing Commonwealth reforms to aged care. Commonwealth reforms, including the implementation of a single home care program from July 2018, will result in significant changes to how council services such as home care support and community transport are delivered and funded. The reforms place councils in direct competition with other aged care providers and will fundamentally change, likely reduce, the block funding councils have traditionally received to deliver their programs.

This was anticipated in the LGA’s Ageing Strategy 2016-21 and an Aged Care working group comprising 18 metropolitan and regional councils is working to support councils for the possible loss of block funding as a result of Commonwealth’s Government’s ongoing reforms of aged care.

The working group is working to build sector capacity, share knowledge and information, develop advocacy messages, and prepare a discussion paper to enable councils to determine appropriate responses to the reforms. The group will present to the LGA Ordinary General Meeting in April 2017, as part of a ‘Working Together’ showcase. It is expected that their discussion paper will be available to facilitate these conversations.





6.8 Update on Rubble Royalties


From: David J. Stevenson, Chief Executive Officer, Legatus Group

Key Initiative: K.I 1 Leadership and Advocacy

Strategy: 1E Build and maintain effective partnerships and stakeholder relations


ECM: 647525

Recommendation

That the SAROC Committee notes the progress in the campaign to remove rubble royalty payment requirements.

Discussion

Legatus Group and the LGA are continuing discussions with Cement, Concrete Aggregates Australia (CCAA) and the Department of State Development seeking unanimity on the last remaining matters needing resolving.

It is anticipated, subject to agreement with CCAA, that Treasury will be asked to consider removing the royalty in the up-coming budget.

The parties are looking to ensure we have negotiated a satisfactory range of measures and are in a position to seek agreement from the Treasurer to have the royalty removed no later than Easter.

LGA Comment


It will be important to ensure that the agreements made with the CCAA have no unintended consequences that disadvantage operations at any individual council.

The LGA Secretariat recommends that the outcomes negotiated with the CCAA are subject to a consultation with member councils before being formally noted by the LGA Board and presented to the State Government. It may be that this issue is presented to the State Government for removal as part of the 2017-18 Mid-Year Budget Review.





6.9 LGA Governance Review Update


From: Kathy Jarrett, Executive Director Corporate & Member Services

Key Initiative: K.I 3 Best practice and continuous improvement

Strategy: 3C Improve LGA governance and operations with a focus on people, finances and our members


ECM: 647549

Recommendation

That the SAROC Committee notes the report

Background

In January 2016, the Local Government Association (LGA) Board resolved to pursue several key initiatives including the conduct of an LGA Board Governance review.

The review encompasses various matters raised by LGA members over the last 12-18 months. In addition to the individual matters raised, the LGA Board took a strategic approach and identified the project scope as being to undertake an analysis and review of the governance framework required to enable the LGA to adequately fulfil its key functions as outlined in the LGA’s Constitution, namely:

1. to provide leadership for local government in SA; 2. to maintain key relations with the State and Commonwealth governments; and 3. to undertake appropriate business to maintain the economic health of local

government in South Australia.

During 2016, broad Sector engagement was undertaken commencing with a President’s Forum held in April 2016 just prior to the LGA’s Ordinary General Meeting. Other workshops were held over the ensuing months with the Board, SAROC, MLGG and Regional LGA Executive Officers. Through these forums, the Sector’s feedback on a series of questions was received:

1. What should be the role, purpose and function of the LGA?

2. Who are the members of the LGA?

3. How does this new LGA engage with and respond to the needs of its diverse membership, and the development of new policy?



Key areas emerging from the initial series of workshops included:

The LGA is a facilitator of local government working together as one sector by bringing members together to develop clear policy and at the same time, representing and reflecting the different communities of interest is important.

Strategies and structures for ‘regional’ engagement are critical.

After engagement comes leadership and the setting of strategic direction with the LGA as facilitator.

Putting the leadership and strategic direction into action through:

Advocacy - advocacy and representation with other levels of government, the community and other stakeholders. Strong, quick and clear advocacy, representing the different communities of interest.

Advancing - provision of specialist services and commercial activities

Assisting - provision of frontline support and assistance

Communication is critical - closing the loop – communication back to members. All members need to know about and be able to communicate the achievements of the sector.

Everyone in local government should “feel” like a member of the LGA.

The early consultation confirmed a consistent view was held across the Sector regarding the LGA’s purpose, that being Advocacy, Advancing and Assisting.

This purpose is already well embedded in the LGA Constitution, as well as in the suite of emerging LGA Strategic Plans.

The LGA is currently reviewing the ‘LGA Policy Manual’. This review is highlighting that to provide leadership and advocacy, the LGA membership needs to adopt high level policy positions that represent sector wide views and a vision for the State – from a local government perspective.

To develop a suite of high level policy positions that informs leadership and advocacy activity, structures that facilitate engagement across the Sector are vital – such as the existing SAROC, regional LGA’s and a much needed and reformed MLGG.

Similarly, structures that facilitate sector advancement through the provision of specialist services, commercial activities and frontline support and assistance to Councils are also vital. These structures may however be different albeit under the one LGA Governance framework.



Discussion

With the information outlined above as a backdrop, the LGA’s structure was the topic of a second series of engagements held August through November 2016. The LGA’s structure, particularly in the context of ‘Advancing’ the sector through the provision of specialist services and commercial activities was also discussed in detail as part of the LGA Schemes Review.

How do we organise ourselves? What is our structure? Who is participating? Are there different communities of interest which need recognition and separate representation? How do we ensure that the different communities of interest have a VOICE? A model structure was shown, forming the basis for discussion with some consistent suggestions emerging:

Annual and ordinary general meetings and showcases are key engagement mechanisms, bringing mayors, elected members and professionals together to debate and set high level policy positions that represent regional and sector wide views, with a vision for the State.

A Representative Council (as distinct from a board) determining/defining policy detail, with LGA Secretariat translating this detail into a Policy Manual, which in turn informs the LGA Annual Business Plan and other organisational planning documents.

South Australian Regional Organisations of Councils (SAROC) is working well. It provides opportunity for regional councils to support each other, and is a good filter for the Board. It should remain as currently structured albeit with some improvements to how it works.

Regional LGA’s to continue, but with a review of their current constituencies / boundaries.

Metropolitan Local Government Group (MLGG) to take a ‘regional’ approach like that adopted by SAROC.

Criteria should be developed to assist members to identify regional boundaries (including within metropolitan Adelaide) based on communities of interest.

The unique role and function of Adelaide City Council to be recognised/considered in terms of metropolitan regions and Governing Council representation.

A professional advisory group(s), ensuring the voice of local government’s workforce and other professional advisors have avenues for input.

An Executive Committee (or Board) appointed by the Representative Council providing oversight of the Secretariat’s operations.

An LGA Audit Committee in its current form to continue.

Consideration of a commercial enterprise board (perhaps a public corporation), providing oversight of the provision of specialist services and commercial activities.



Next Steps

Following the last round of engagement:

A series of guiding principles to inform the writing of a new Constitution have been developed. The are provided at Appendix 1 for information purposes.

A Leadership Group comprising Mayors and CEOs from both regional and metropolitan, large and small councils will review the feedback received and guiding principles in detail, and refine the overall structure further.

Input will be sought from experts in corporate governance to ensure that the LGA’s structure is considered from both representational and contemporary corporate governance aspects.

Finalise draft Constitution based on feedback received. Present revised LGA structure and associated Constitution to the April 2017 Ordinary General Meeting for information purposes, noting that further consultation with members and the Minister for Local Government will be undertaken during May - August.

Update draft Constitution with any feedback / comments from the Minister, and refer to the November Annual General Meeting for adoption.

During the period November 2017 – November 2018 progressively implement transitional arrangements as necessary.

Post November 2018 Local Government General Election, full implementation of new governance arrangements.





APPENDIX 1 Principles for the future LGA governance structure. The following guiding Principles have emerged from consultations: A. Core foundational Principles. 1. The LGA statutory “recognition” should remain in a Schedule to the Local Government

Act thereby recognising the importance of a peak body to the system of local government in South Australia.

2. The LGA Constitution should be simplified in form and substance and only essential constitutional issues should be found in the Constitution.

3. The LGA Constitution reflects the fundamental entitlement and responsibility of all Councils and related entities including Unincorporated Areas. It is the “one voice” representative of all voluntarily participating ”members” of the LGA.

4. The LGA Constitution should highlight that the fundamental purpose of all participating councils and related entities in LGA membership is to adopt high level policy positions that represent sector wide views and a “local government” vision for the State.

5. Governance of the LGA should remain the sovereign right and responsibility of all members exercised at General Meetings of members, primarily through powers that determine the future “constitutional” direction of the LGA subject only to the Minister’s statutory consent to any proposed changes to the Constitution.

6. The LGA Constitution will determine the procedures for General Meetings of members

of which there will be an Annual General Meeting and such other meetings as are so determined.

B. Representative Council

7. The “Representative Council” elected by the members will be charged with the responsibility of receiving and debating proposed policy for the local government industry to be referred to a Meeting of members to consider for adoption.

8. “Local government” policy positions should be developed through a Representative Council and determined through regular and broadly represented General Meetings.

9. General Meetings of the LGA members should be preceded by a Representative Council meeting whose responsibility is to receive from regional members all member requests for policy development, consider prospective policy positions, review such policy positions, and ensure informed debate does occur.

10. The outcomes of General Meetings of LGA Members should then be supported by the LGA Secretariat through the compiling and continuous review of an evidence based Policy Manual.



C. Organising Members

11. The LGA Constitution will empower the Representative Council to make rules governing the way in which members organise themselves for the composition and election of people to the Representative Council and the referral of matters in the nature of policy development for the purpose of regional / state development.

12. The rules will be embodied in a “Charter” developed by the Representative Council and approved by members at a General Meeting.

13. The rules will ensure an equal representation between the greater Adelaide region and regional / rural South Australia.

14. The rules will provide for a President, who will be drawn from both greater Adelaide and regional areas on a rotational basis.

D. Charter 15. The Charter for LGA will:

determine the appropriate criteria for “regions” for LGA governance purposes to

better engage the diverse “communities of interest” within the local government communities in SA, for the purpose of regional policy development

determine the constituency and organisation of such “regions”.

determine how the “Representative Council” will be elected from the membership of regional organisations and for what term.

determine how an Executive Committee of the LGA will be appointed by the “Representative Council”.

the Charter will be adopted by the members at a General Meeting coincident with the adoption of a new Constitution anticipated to be in November 2017.

E. Executive Committee 16. There will be an “Executive Committee” which will be the key governing entity of the

LGA.

17. The “Executive Committee” will be skills based, derived from the Representative Council.

18. The Executive Committee is charged with ensuring the proper management and governance of the LGA as a corporate body. It will oversight the Secretariat’s operations, generally managing the activities of the LGA and ensuring the delivery of value to members.

19. The Executive Committee’s key areas of focus are strategy (informed by the policy positions adopted by members at General Meetings), corporate policy, monitoring performance, accountability to members, aligning and managing the performance of the CEO.



20. The LGA Secretariat should be structured primarily to support the policy development and advocacy role of the LGA acting under direction from the “Executive Committee” and through the work of the Representative Council and the decisions of the members at General Meetings.

21. The LGA Secretariat will also implement, under the direction of the “Executive Committee”, “member services” (both subsidized and commercial) offered beyond the primary function of “policy development, leadership and advocacy”.

22. The “Executive Committee” will ensure a strategic financial approach is taken to managing the LGA by aligning the LGA’s financial model to the LGA’s functions of advocacy and member services. This will help provide perspective and relativity to funding sources and expenses, which in turn will contribute to decision making regarding member subscriptions and service design and delivery.

F. Regional groupings of members 23. Recognising the potentially different communities of interest throughout the State of

SA, members will be encouraged to organise themselves in voluntary “local” regional groupings through which all new policy positions will first be received, considered, reviewed and then developed for presentation to and consideration by the “Representative Council” before presentation to a General Meeting of members.

24. Recognising the voluntary nature of such regional groupings and the fact that over time there may be changes to such regional group constituents the rules in the Charter will be as flexible as necessary to ensure that a dynamic situation exists and is facilitated.

25. Members will be free to associate (or not) in such regional groupings as they determine to be in their individual and collective “best interests” in accord with the Charter for LGA governance purposes.

26. Taking the existing “regional structure” as an example, there may be two principal regional organisations, namely the South Australian Region of Councils (SAROC) representing the collective rural communities, and the Greater Adelaide Region of Councils (GAROC) representing the collective urban and peri-urban communities.

27. Consideration needs be given as to how the entities in the Unincorporated Areas (including the Aboriginal Communities and the Outback Communities Authority) engage with the LGA and the wider local government communities in a “regional” context, for example do they constitute a “region” in their own right or are they better served by joining a “region” including other members from the far north of the State.

28. Members forming a “local” regional grouping will self determine their existence and function subject only to any rules in the “Charter”.

29. The resourcing of regional groupings of members (both financial and human resources will be derived from financial contributions from the regional membership and other support from the LGA.

G. General

30. Recognising that while all members are participants in the various commercial enterprises supported by the LGA, they should be entitled to “opt into” receipt of such other LGA provided “members services” as they may individually determine.



6.10 Council DPTI Jetty Agreements


From: Tony Irvine, Executive Officer, Eyre Peninsula Local Government Association




ECM: 647716

Recommendation



2. requests the LGA Board to seek clarification of future directions and commence re-negotiation with DPTI on the future maintenance and upgrades to their jetties currently managed by coastal Councils under 15 the year agreements.

Discussion

Jetties are a huge drawcard in coastal communities and of great importance to locals and visitors alike.

Recent storm events have also caused havoc with some of the jetties due to their state of repair.

Approximately 15 years ago the State Government negotiated 15 year maintenance agreements with all regional coastal Councils to maintain the State owned jetties in their council area. Some of these agreements only have 12 months before expiry. There is now a need to clarify DPTI’s future directions with the ongoing maintenance and upgrades to the State owned jetties.

The LGA Board, through the secretariat is requested to investigate the status of all Councils/ DPTI jetty agreements and commence negotiations with DPTI and/or the responsible Minister in relation to the future maintenance and upgrades to the coastal jetties.

LGA Comment

(Officer: Stephen Smith, Director Policy)

The LGA can initiate a discussion with DPTI about their view on how management and upgrades of jetties should be managed in the future. However, it will be important prior to starting this discussion to define the expectations of councils and develop a negotiating position for the sector. The LGA will need to consult with coastal councils about the status of their current agreements and future arrangements, noting that individual councils may have differing views about the best way to proceed in the future.



It is recommended that this consultation be undertaken and a report brought back to SAROC and the LGA Board to adopt a local government position, prior to commencing negotiations with DPTI.

The current jetty agreements were set up some time ago and liaison between DPTI and councils would be necessary to aggregate all the jetty information from across the State and review the various agreements. This would represent a considerable body of work.


This activity will require significant staff resources and funding that is not currently anticipated in the LGA budget.


Documents

Notice of Meeting · 6.5 Summary on Energy Forum 40 6.6 SA Power Networks 42 6.7 Community Passenger Networks45 6.8 Update on Rubble Royalties 47