Notice of Meeting€¦ · Notice of Meeting Notice is hereby given that a meeting of the...

Local Government Association of South Australia

Notice of Meeting

Notice is hereby given that a meeting of the

Metropolitan Local Government Group will be held on

Wednesday 9 March 2016 at 4.30pm

Boardrooms at Local Government House

148 Frome Street, Adelaide

Matt Pinnegar

Chief Executive Officer

2 March 2016

Metropolitan Local Government Group Meeting

Agenda

Wednesday 9 March 2016

4.30pm

Boardrooms

Local Government House

148 Frome Street, Adelaide

The Mission of the Metropolitan Local Government Group is to work regionally, locally, and with

the LGA to foster and promote sustainable and planned development and growth in Metropolitan

Adelaide at the local and regional level.

(adopted by the MLGG on 24 November 2010)

Minutes and agendas can be downloaded from www.lga.sa.gov.au under the ‘About the LGA’ menu.

http://www.lga.sa.gov.au/

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Metropolitan Local Government Group (pursuant to the provision of clause 116.2 of the LGA Constitution)

Membership (pursuant to the LGA Constitution) Council Mayor CEO Adelaide Martin Haese Mark Goldstone Adelaide Hills Bill Spragg* Andrew Aitken Burnside David Parkin* Paul Deb Campbelltown Simon Brewer Paul Di Iulio Charles Sturt Angela Evans* Paul Sutton Gawler Karen Redman Henry Inat Holdfast Bay Stephen Patterson Justin Lynch Marion Kris Hanna Adrian Skull Mitcham Glenn Spear* Matthew Pears* Mount Barker# Ann Ferguson* Andrew Stuart Norwood Payneham & St Peters

Robert Bria* Mario Barone

Onkaparinga Lorraine Rosenberg* Mark Dowd Playford Glenn Docherty Mal Hemmerling Port Adelaide Enfield Gary Johanson Mark Withers Prospect David O’Loughlin* Cate Atkinson Salisbury Gillian Aldridge* John Harry Tea Tree Gully Kevin Knight* John Moyle Unley Lachlan Clyne* Peter Tsokas Walkerville Raymond Grigg Kiki Magro West Torrens John Trainer Terry Buss #adjoining Council (observers) * LGA Board Members, Deputy Board Members & Observers Copy to current LGA Board Members and Deputy Members: Mayor Dave Burgess LGA President Cr Jill Whittaker Member - Adelaide Metro Zone (Campbelltown) Cr Sue Clearihan Member - Adelaide Metro Zone (Adelaide) Cr Peter Jamieson Deputy - Adelaide Metro Zone (Port Adelaide Enfield)

Apologies / Proxies If you are unable to attend, please arrange for a proxy to attend to represent your Council and advise [email protected] or telephone 8224 2031.

Networking There will be refreshments available after the meeting.

mailto:[email protected]

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Agenda

1. Invited Guest Speakers ........................................................................................... 5

2 Welcome, Present & Apologies ............................................................................... 5

2.1 Apologies Received ................................................................................................... 5

3 Confirmation of Previous Minutes .......................................................................... 5

3.1 Minutes of the meeting held 20 January 2016 ............................................................ 5

3.2 Resolutions of the meeting held 20 January 2016 .................................................... 12

4 Representative Reports and Updates ................................................................... 15

4.1 Report from the LGA President ................................................................................ 15

4.2 Report from the MLGG Chairperson and Executive Committee ............................... 26

4.3 Report from the Metro CEO Convenor ..................................................................... 31

5 MLGG Annual Priorities ......................................................................................... 33

5.1 2016 Action Plan: Economic Development ............................................................... 33

5.2 2016 Action Plan: Planning ...................................................................................... 50

5.3 2016 Action Plan: Improving Efficiency .................................................................... 57

5.4 2016 Endorsed Activities: Precinct Planning/Cycling/Environment Including Lord

Mayor address on UN Climate Change conference ................................................. 63

6 LGA Business ........................................................................................................ 65

6.1 Update Re Various LGA Board Reviews / Decisions ................................................ 65

6.2 Federal Election Strategy ......................................................................................... 67

7 Council Initiated Business .................................................................................... 68

8 Urgent Business .................................................................................................... 68

8.1 Infrastructure Australia Report Prioritising a Tram Network for Adelaide .................. 68

9 Upcoming MLGG Related Events ......................................................................... 70

10 Next Meeting ........................................................................................................... 70

11 Close ....................................................................................................................... 70

Metropolitan LG Group Agenda - 9 March 2016 - of 71

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1. Invited Guest Speakers

The Lord Mayor will address the MLGG at Agenda Item 5.4.

2 Welcome, Present & Apologies

2.1 Apologies Received

Nil.

3 Confirmation of Previous Minutes

3.1 Minutes of the meeting held 20 January 2016

Minutes of Previous Meeting

To: Metropolitan Local Government Group

From: MLGG Executive Committee

(Contact – Astrid Crago, Administration Coordinator)

ECM: 635694 Attachment: 634661

Recommendation

That the Metropolitan Local Government Group confirms the minutes of the meeting

held on 20 January 2016 as a true and accurate record.

Discussion

The draft minutes of the Metropolitan Local Government Group meeting held on 20 January

2016 are attached.

Attachment:


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3.2 Resolutions of the meeting held 20 January 2016

Minutes of Previous Meeting



(Contact – Astrid Crago, Administration Coordinator)

ECM: 635255 Attachment: Nil.

Recommendation

That the Metropolitan Local Government Group notes the actions of the meeting held

on 20 January 2016.

Discussion

Resolution Status

5.1 2016 Annual Priorities

Moved Adelaide Seconded Walkerville that the Metropolitan Local Government Group:

1. notes the report;

2. endorses the MLGG 2016 Annual Priority Action Plans for Economic Development, Planning, and Improving Efficiency;

3. endorses the activities to be undertaken by the MLGG in 2016 relating to precinct planning, cycling and environment (carbon neutral cities); and

4. notes and endorses the resources that will be required to deliver the 2016 MLGG Action Plan.

CARRIED

Reports against the endorsed Annual Priority Action Plans will be provided to each MLGG meeting in 2016.

Other initiatives will be reported on as required.

6.1 Planning, Development and Infrastructure Bill 2015

Moved Adelaide Hills Seconded Unley that the Metropolitan Local Government Group:

1. receives and notes the report;

2. receives a verbal update on the progress of the Planning, Development & Infrastructure Bill 2015.

CARRIED

A further update on the Bill is provided within this Agenda


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6.2 Economic Development Activities

Senior Policy Officer, Skana Gallery addressed the meeting.

Moved West Torrens Seconded Prospect that the Metropolitan Local Government Group notes:

1. the report;

2. the overview of the Economic Development Think Tank meeting held on 9 December 2015; and

3. the update on the activities of the Shandong Local Government Working Group.

CARRIED

The MLGG Executive has requested a report itemising the recommendations of the Economic Development Think Tank along with a status report to be presented at each MLGG meeting. This is provided as a separate report in this agenda.

6.3 Regional Governance Framework Consultation

Moved Adelaide Seconded Walkerville that the Metropolitan Local Government Group notes the report.

CARRIED

The LGA will collate the feedback received from Councils and report to the LGA Board in March 2016.

6.4 MLGG Funding - Regional Capacity Building Funds

Moved Adelaide Hills Seconded Tea Tree Gully that the Metropolitan Local Government Group receives the report.

CARRIED

Completed

6.5 Federal Election Strategy

Executive Director, Kathy Jarrett gave a verbal update and answered questions from members.

There was general discussion.

Moved Prospect Seconded Adelaide Hills that the Metropolitan Local Government Group:

1. notes progress to date and provides any feedback on elements of the draft strategy;

2. invites Metropolitan councils to provide feedback on the draft ALGA federal election document to feed into the ALGA planning day in February and into the LGA's election strategy;

3. invites the Minister for Cities and Environment to address MLGG, to outline his vision for Cities and the role he sees Local government playing in fulfilling that vision; and

A further update report is provided within this Agenda.


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4. invites the Shadow Minister for Cities and Environment to address MLGG, outlining the Opposition's vision as outlined above.

CARRIED

8.2 Opportunity for Tailored Finance Programs

Moved West Torrens Seconded Unley that the Metropolitan Local Government Group recommends to the LGA Board that on behalf of Local Government the LGA investigate opportunities for interested local government bodies to collectively take advantage of tailored finance programs being made available through the Commonwealth's Clean Energy Finance Corporation for Councils to adopt clean technologies to reduce energy bills and lower emissions.

CARRIED

This proposal was endorsed by the LGA Board and is currently being investigated by the LGA Secretariat.


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4 Representative Reports and Updates

4.1 Report from the LGA President

Federal Election Campaign

Since our last meeting, we are almost half way through a series of meetings with Federal South

Australian Liberal, Labor and Independent Senators and MPs. We have been presenting them with

information on key issues for local government, which is being well received.

We have met with Senators Sean Edwards, David Fawcett, Anne McEwen, Anne Ruston and Nick

Xenophon, and MPs Matt Williams, Nick Champion and Mark Butler. I also have meetings scheduled

with MP Kate Ellis and Senator Penny Wong.

ALGA Board Strategic Planning Meeting

Matt and I spent three days in WA at the ALGA Board Strategic Planning Meeting in Joondalup.

During this time we were pleased to meet with WALGA to explore better ways to deliver services to

local government.

Minister Brock bi-monthly meeting

My bi-monthly meetings with Minister Brock have continued. Topics under discussion at our last

meeting included emergency management, community housing, the NRM and the Mobile Blackspot

Programme.

Planning Reform Campaign

Debate on the Planning, Development & Infrastructure Bill commenced again in February, with a large

number of amendments put forward by government, opposition and cross benchers. While the LGA

remains disappointed with some aspects of the Bill, we must acknowledge that the advocacy of the

Association and councils has resulted in some big wins in relation to consultation, oversight and

enforcement. A complete summary of the changes will be prepared and circulated at the conclusion

of the debate.

Regional Visits

Matt and I continued our regional visits, this time in the Limestone Coast meeting with the seven

councils and discussing issues affecting them. I’d like to thank the Tatiara, Naracoorte-Lucindale,


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Kingston, Robe, Wattle Range, Grant and Mount Gambier councils for their time and hospitality. I

was impressed by their commitment to drive economic development for the benefit of their

communities.

2016 Council Best Practice Showcase & LGA Ordinary General Meeting

The 2016 Council Best Practice Showcase and the LGA Ordinary General Meeting will be held at the

Adelaide Showgrounds on the 14 & 15 of April. The Showcase Networking Dinner will be held on 14

April at the Intercontinental Hotel. Online registration opens shortly and more information can be

found on the LGA website: www.lga.sa.gov.au/2016showcase

Rubble Royalties

The Treasurer has been invited to inspect borrow pits and meet with affected councils in a respectful

environment in the hope of achieving a mutually acceptable outcome to the current regime. The

pending State Budget provides an opportunity for the sector to have this unfair tax revisited and

hopefully abolished.

Transfer of Housing Stock to Community Housing Providers

Once again I raised the sector’s concerns about the 75% mandatory rebate on council rates for

Community Housing Providers (CHPs), this time in a letter to the Premier. In the letter I reiterated that

the state government cannot lawfully operate to override the councils legislative obligations under the

Local Government Act 1999 and, as such, there is no protection for councils should the 75% rebate

not be provided. I also highlighted the financial impact on those councils already experiencing these

transfers. The LGA is seeking to meet urgently with the Minister for Housing and Urban

Development, Hon Stephen Mullighan, to address these concerns and ensure that councils do not

incur any loss of rateable income in rebates to the community housing sector including any transfers

of Housing SA stock.

Recommendation to the MLGG

That the Metropolitan Local Government Group notes the report.

Attachment:


http://www.lga.sa.gov.au/2016showcase

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LGA Topical Report

LGA representative President, Mayor Dave Burgess and CEO, Matt Pinnegar

Date February 2016

Purpose The Topical report is provided as an information update for LGA

meetings and is current at the time it is supplied.

Recommendation That the item be noted

1. LGA Reviews

The January 2016 Board meeting saw the progression of a number of significant

reviews focused on improving our governance, and in turn, providing betters services

to our members. The following is a summary of work to date:

1. The LGA now has an Audit Committee, comprising 3 independent members –

Alan Tregilgas, Yvonne Sneddon and Rosina Hislop (Chair), and Mayor David

Parkin will serve as the LGA Board Member representative. The Committee’s

scope includes oversight of the LGA’s activities, with a focus on effective and

efficient delivery of commercial and non-commercial services to members. It

also includes oversight as required for the LGA’s related entities – in

particular, their ongoing contribution and return on investment to Members.

2. LGA Governance review and review of the Mutual Liability and Workers

Compensation Schemes - detailed project plans have been developed for

these projects, to be further distributed over the coming weeks.

3. Subscriptions review - a series of options have been developed that will be

available for release by the end of the month.

The LGA Board is committed to seeking your involvement through email, forums,

surveys and sub committees. More information about each proposal will be

distributed in the coming weeks and months as the various project and engagement

plans are refined.

2. Federal Election

The LGA secretariat has commenced preparing its draft federal election strategy,

with engagement, communications and documentation activities taking place early in

2016. This will ensure, as far as possible, that the LGA is prepared to advance the

interest of SA councils and regions whenever the election takes place. This matches

activities occurring at the national level, with ALGA currently finalising both its

Federal Budget Submission and Federal election strategy documents, and preparing

for lobbying and meetings with key stakeholders should an early election be called.


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3. LGA Strategic Plan

Following a significant consultation process during 2015-16 with member councils on

the new 2016-2020 LGA Strategic Plan the LGA Board endorsed the final plan at its

January 2016 meeting. The LGA Secretariat will provide copies at regional LGA

meetings. This new plan creates a platform on which the LGA can build its member

services and progress towards best practice and will drive the development of a new

strategic planning framework linking our budgetary processes with our strategic and

business planning.

4. Rate Capping

The inquiry into rate capping is continuing with the most recent witnesses being

called Graham Sampson and Greg Crafter. Initially it was anticipated that the inquiry

was going to be finalised prior to 2016; however, the LGA has now received

confirmation that the Economic and Finance Committee intends on calling further

witnesses. It unknown at this time who the witnesses will be or how long the inquiry

will continue.

The LGA is continuing to raise opposition to the policy of rate capping in all meetings

with members of parliament to help ensure that rate capping is not introduced in

South Australia.

Initial indications of the direction of the inquiry, according to its line of questioning,

suggests that final recommendations may include more rigorous Elected Member

training, the use of the Auditor General, and improved efficiencies through resource

sharing across council boundaries.

The LGA has developed a campaign in the lead up to the 2018 State Government

election to raise awareness of the impact of rate capping. The campaign will be

further reviewed upon release of the final recommendations from the Committee.

5. Planning Review

The LGA has finalised a comprehensive submission on the Government’s Bill which

has been made available to the Minister and other Members of Parliament and

publicly. It includes a commentary on every clause in the Bill. The submission can be

found here: http://www.lga.sa.gov.au/planning.

The Bill was passed in the House of Assembly on 17 November 2015 with a number

of amendments that address some of the concerns raised by our sector. The LGA

has met with the Minister and Departmental staff to negotiate further amendments

and further progress has been made to address key issues.

The government is maintaining its position in relation to DAPs. Debate in the Upper

House commenced on 1 December, with the first 55 clauses of the Bill dealt with.

Debate on the Bill will resume during sittings in February 2016 and the LGA will

continue to provide regular updates to councils.


http://www.lga.sa.gov.au/planning

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The Opposition has filed a number of amendments including one which would have

the effect of allowing council members to continue to serve on Development

Assessment Panels. The Liberal Party has reconfirmed its commitment to this

amendment, with support from three cross-benchers.

A second ‘implementation’ Bill is required to be passed through both Houses of

Parliament before any of the Planning, Development & Infrastructure Bill can be

enacted. The timing of this second Bill is dependent on the passage of the first Bill,

but is expected to be introduced in 2016.

Discussions have commenced between the LGA and DPTI regarding the process of

establishing a high level implementation committee and several working groups to

work on the detail of the reforms once the Bill has passed. Contact

[email protected] for further information.

6. Legislation

The LGA understands that the Local Government Amendment Act is due to

commence on 31 March 2016. Regulations will be made to commence

simultaneously and the LGA board endorsed a list of ‘ordinary business matters of

a council’ at its January meeting which will be included in the regulations. These

matters will form an ‘exemption’ for council members from having to declare an

interest under the new conflict of interest provisions in the Local Government

Amendment Act (Circular 47.6). The LGA is also developing model policies and

guidelines to assist councils with implementing the new provisions and recently

released a model policy for Informal Gatherings (circular 5.1, January 2016). All

councils must have a policy before they can hold an informal gathering, once the

new provisions commence.

The LGA Board has also endorsed submissions to the relevant Ministers in

relation to the Local Government Elections Review and the regulations of food

trucks. Contact [email protected] for further information.

7. Boundary Adjustment Reform

The LGA board endorsed a legislative framework for a more effective and

streamlined approach to boundary adjustment issues. The framework formed the

basis for further discussions with the State Government at the Premier’s Forum in

December, with a view to amending the Local Government Act in mid-2016. The

Minister has responded positively and is expecting officers from the LGA and the

Office of Local Government to continue to work together to finalise the details.

Contact [email protected] for further information.

8. Local Nuisance and Litter Control Bill

As described in LGA circular 50.2 the Local Nuisance and Litter Control Bill 2015

introduced in to Parliament on 2 December is substantially different to that consulted





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with councils in July 2015 (refer LGA circular 29.10). The LGA understands that

many of the more onerous components of the previous version were removed, or

edited and that the Bill introduced to Parliament has reflected many of the

amendments sought by the LGA and councils.

To facilitate the potential introduction of the Bill the EPA has been working with the

LGA on a transition/implementation package of codes, guidelines, standard operating

procedures etc and other supporting resources (including the potential for support

staff based out of the LGA) to assist councils if/when the Bill passes Parliament.

Considering the Bill has been substantially amended and that transitional

arrangements will be satisfactorily addressed the LGA is seeking feedback from

councils on their position as it relates to the Bill. Please refer to Circular 52.4 for more

information; feedback is due by 26 February 2016. For further information contact

[email protected]

9. Public Lighting

The 16 December 2015 SA Premier’s State/Local Government Forum discussed

public lighting cost to the community and agreed to talk further about a collaborative

approach to delivery of innovative “smart city” technology in SA. State and Local

Government share the cost of providing approximately 230,000 street lights in SA

with SA Power Networks providing fee for services to provide and maintain the

assets. To date negotiations with SA Power Networks (SAPN) on street lighting costs

from 2010 to 2015 have been difficult to finalise. Councils have been separately

advised of the status of these negotiations.

Currently public lighting (street lights) and telecommunications such as phone/cable

and public (street) lighting services are based around use electricity transmission

infrastructure including stobie poles. The Premiers Forum noted opportunity to

reduce costs and to provide greater benefits through a ‘smart city’ approach. The

Forum agreed to pursue further discussion how this might influence innovation in

traffic management, driverless cars, wifi, telecommunications and other digital

services.

10. State Government

The LGA President continues to meet with Minister Brock on a regular basis. The

most recent meeting in December 2015 included discussions about the Premier’s

State/Local Government Forum Meeting on December 16, the review of Local

Government elections and the CWMS agreement. Meetings with Minister Hunter

have included discussions on NRM, Coasts, CWMS, DCM, Waste and Climate

Change. Meetings with other Ministers dealing with key issues and with the Treasurer

continue. Contact [email protected]




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11. 2016 Council Best Practice Showcase – 14 & 15 April 2016

The 2016 Council Best Practice Showcase and LGA Ordinary General Meeting will

be held at the Adelaide Showgrounds on 14 & 15 April. The Showcase Networking

Dinner will be held on 14 April at the Intercontinental Hotel.

Online registrations will open shortly and further information is available at

www.lga.sa.gov.au/2016showcase

12. LGA Procurement (LGAP)

Temporary labour hire

LGAP has appointed Comensura as the preferred supplier for the provision of

temporary labour hire services to the SA local government sector. This service

offers a significant opportunity for Councils to save costs, improve the controls

and visibility of temporary labour hire, as well as reducing the risks of taking on a

person who has not been correctly vetted for skills and compliance. The service

is provided for all Councils regardless of location and is seen as a very

innovative and advantageous solution. Full details of the service can be obtained

from the LGAP website or by calling Elizabeth Camp on 8224 2040.

Procurement training

Procurement training can be delivered for individual Councils or groups of

Councils including regionally. The benefits from on-site training are; reduced

accommodation, travel, time and costs associated with attending training in

Adelaide.

13. Human Resources and Industrial Relations Service

The LGA Human Resources and Industrial Relations panel is receiving excellent

feedback from Councils that have engaged the various practitioners. Further details

of the panel and contact details for the firms are in LGA Circular 40.12 of 2014. For

further information, please c Andrew Haste via email [email protected]

14. Water Management

The LGA has been working with ESCOSA on the regulatory framework imposed on

Councils through the Water Industry Act 2012. This has led to simplified reporting

requirements for the next reporting period. The LGA continues to work with relevant

Government agencies regarding water matteris including the new strategic plan and

legislation for the Stormwater Management Authority. Contact

[email protected]

15. Waste Management

Work continues on seeking greater investment by the state government in the waste

management sector. Legislation forming Green Industries SA is anticipated in early


http://www.lga.sa.gov.au/2016showcase



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2016 which the LGA will consult on with councils. The EPA has released a proposed

waste reform agenda for consultation to which the LGA has responded (refer LGA

circular 35.1) which will further develop in 2016. For further information contact

[email protected]

16. Climate Risk Management

Science to Solutions

Stage two of the Science to Solutions Program is progressing as planned. The first

deliverable (a case study detailing achievements of the Regional Adaptation Program

to date, and outlining the next steps) will be made available to councils in the near

future. The LGA will also be providing the State Government with an audit of the five

Regional Adaptation Plans that have current been completed, and on how to develop

a State-wide Adaptation Plan.

Reforming Planning Policy & Providing Guidance for Councils

The draft reports are now being reviewed by the LGA. The reports provide a series of

recommendations for where the LGA should provide guidance to councils to enhance

consideration of climate risk in strategic and assessment planning processes. The

reports also make recommendations to DPTI to assist them in transitioning from the

Planning Policy Library into a Planning and Development Code. The LGA expects to

re-engage with the sector and DPTI in March 2016. Contact

[email protected]


http://www.lga.sa.gov.au/page.aspx?c=65460

http://www.lga.sa.gov.au/page.aspx?c=65460



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17. Natural Resource Management

The LGA is aware of consultation in the regions by NRM Boards on 2016/17 budgets

and business plans. As part of this consultation NRM Boards are indicating

significant increases in costs to the Board from the new Department of Environment,

Water and Natural Resources (DEWNR) corporate fee model and DEWNR water

management/planning costs. Concern regarding the impact of these substantial

costs on NRM Boards was raised at the LGA SAROC and Board meetings in

November 2015 and January 2016.

Key issues raised by SAROC and the Board include;

1. Frustration regarding a lack of information / transparency regarding DEWNR pass on costs for water management planning and corporate fees. The LGA has requested that the State support an independent inquiry into water management planning in SA.

2. Service delivery in the regions, and 3. some councils are still advocating for alternate levy collection arrangements

to be investigated.

The LGA is currently in discussions with Minister Hunter, DEWNR, NRM Boards and

councils on future NRM arrangements. For further information please contact

[email protected]

18. My Local Services App and Unity Content Management System (CMS)

The Electronic Services Program team continues to support Councils with content

management and development of new mobile responsive websites. Focus of recent

time has been on assisting Councils with their transition planning from the Bizgate

payment gateway to an alternative system for on-line transactions processing.

19. Local Government Engagement with China

The LGA China Engagement Strategy was released for consultation on 30

November 2015 and development of the SA-Shandong B2B Platform is proceeding

at pace, to be launched at the Premier’s mission to Shandong from 5-9 April 2016. A

draft program has been released for the outbound mission focusing on the five

Shandong cities that have friendly-city relationships or MoUs with SA councils.

Registration to participate in the 2016 Shandong mission closes on 26 February

2016. Enquiries to [email protected] or 8224 2027, including any

councils interested in participating in any Local Government China engagement

activities. Further detail on all of the above is available on the LGA website here

http://www.lga.sa.gov.au/page.aspx?u=264

20. Regional Tourism / Visitor Economy

The Chairs of South Australia’s eleven Regional Tourism Organisations (RTOs) are

undertaking a review of ‘SA Regional Tourism Structures and Working Relationships’





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and the Review Report is being drafted through February for presentation to the RTO

Chairs in March.

Concurrently, the LGA Board has resolved to:

investigate how Local Government tourism funding reporting can be standardised to reflect the true contribution of Local Government to tourism in SA;

facilitate the South Australian Tourism Council’s (SATC) engagement with regional LGAs to discuss the National Strategic Directions Paper on Visitor Information Centres;

advocate for a position on the SA Tourism Commission Board for Local Government; and

write to the ALGA President to encourage ALGA to seek membership on the national Tourism Ministers’ Roundtable.

Further detail is available on the LGA website here

http://www.lga.sa.gov.au/page.aspx?u=264 and further inquiries are welcome to

[email protected] or 8224 2027.

21. Regional Public Health Planning

A Regional Public Health Planning Directory of Resources has been compiled to

assist Councils to take early, practical steps towards the implementation of Regional

Public Health Plans.

The Directory provides information about a wide range of programs, policies,

guidelines and funding opportunities that can be used by Councils directly, or in

collaboration with community groups to initiate new activities.

In addition, the LGA has advertised (now closed) for a Public Health Planning

Implementation Officer, to assist Councils, particularly in regional and remote areas,

to identify programs and services that are currently available to support the delivery

of strategies identified in Councils Regional Public Health Plans. The Public Health

Planning Implementation Officer will be employed on a 12 month, full time basis from

March 2016 to support Councils.

22. Local Government Research & Development Scheme

The Local Government Research & Development Scheme Advisory Committee will

be holding the first of its two scheduled 2016 meetings on 18 March. This

Committee will make recommendations to the LGA Board on a number of important

matters:

The future of Regional Capacity Building Allocations – after reviewing the operation of these allocations from 2011 to 2015.

How to allocate the new R&D income stream from Council rubble royalties, estimated at approximately $600,000 p.a.

A review of the “60% rule” under which up to 60% of R&D funding (excluding ongoing projects) is allocated annually to projects initiated by the LGA secretariat.




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23. Review of State Emergency Management Plan

The State Emergency Management Committee has indicated that a review of the

State Emergency Management Plan will occur this year. The review is to be

completed by July. The LGA intends preparing a discussion paper to enable a sector

wide consultation to assist the determination of the future roles and responsibilities

attributed to councils in the plan. For further details please contact

[email protected]



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4.2 Report from the MLGG Chairperson and Executive

Committee

Representative Report



(Contact – Mayor Lorraine Rosenberg, MLGG Chairperson)

Financial Implications: Nil.


Recommendation

That the Metropolitan Local Government Group notes the minutes of the MLGG

Executive Committee meeting held 23 February 2016.

Discussion

Present

Mayor Lorraine Rosenberg (Chairperson)

Mayor David Parkin

Mayor Bill Spragg

Mayor Lachlan Clyne

Mr Matthew Pears (Metro CEO Convenor)

LGA Secretariat Staff Present

Ms Lisa Teburea

Ms Kathy Jarrett

Ms Astrid Crago

1. Welcome

Mayor Rosenberg welcomed members.

2. Apologies

Mayor Karen Redman

Mayor Dave Burgess (LGA President)

Mr Matt Pinnegar (LGA CEO)


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3. Minutes of the MLGG Executive Meeting held 21 December 2015

The MLGG Executive Committee accepted the minutes of the meeting held 21 December

2015.

4. Draft agenda for 9 March 2016 Metropolitan Local Government Group meeting

The MLGG Executive Committee discusses and endorsed the draft MLGG Agenda, with the

following amendments.

The Chair requested that the champion for each Action Plan item be listed in the appropriate

report.

The Committee felt that the presentation from the Lord Mayor would be best received at Item

5.4 in the March MLGG Agenda as this will link to the report on environment initiatives.

Action:

Annual Priority agenda items to be updated to include the Champion for each priority

The address by Lord Mayor Haese to the March MLGG meeting will be positioned on the

Agenda at Item 5.4.

Item 5.1 - Action Plan: Economic Development

The MLGG Executive noted the importance of demonstrating progress of the

outcomes of the Economic Development Think Tank. It was requested that the LGA

Secretariat prepare a document that tracks these actions and circulate it to Executive

Committee members for inclusion on the March 2016 Agenda.

The MLGG Executive endorsed the following recommendation, as amended:

That the Metropolitan Local Government Group

1. notes the report; and

2. notes the update on the outcomes of previous Economic Development Think

Tank meetings.

Action:

An update on the outcomes of the Economic Development Think Tank be circulated

to MLGG Members and included in item 5.1

Item 5.2 - Action Plan: Planning

The MLGG Executive noted that an updated summary of the progress of the Planning,

Development and Infrastructure Bill would be included in the March MLGG Agenda.

It was requested that the report be updated to include information about the joint

partnership between the LGA and UDIA and an update on the status of the MOU

between the LGA and Development industry peak bodies.


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It was also requested that a ‘sign-up sheet’ be available at the meeting for council that

want to nominate a best practice project or initiative to share with the MLGG

Executive.


That the Metropolitan Local Government Group:


2. receives and discusses an update on activities relating to the Planning,

Development and Infrastructure Bill 2015;

3. notes that activities relating to the 30 Year Plan update are being coordinated

with DPTI;

4. notes that an update on the Heritage and Character planning project will be

provided to the May MLGG meeting;

5. invites metropolitan councils to submit expressions of interest for implementing

and reporting on planning culture and practice improvement initiatives; and

6. receives an update on the status of the MOU between the LGA and

Development Industry Groups, which was signed in February 2014.

Action:

Prepare a ‘sign-up sheet’ to be available at the March MLGG meeting for nominating

best practice projects

Update the report as per the amended recommendation.

Item 5.3 - Action Plan: Improving Efficiency

The Chair requested that the level of interest from MLGG members in having an

efficiency forum (potentially as part of the LGA Best Practice Showcase) be sought. It

was also requested that information be sought from MLGG members about any

LGR&DS funds that have been received to undertake an efficiency project.

The MLGG Executive Committee endorsed the following recommendation:



2. notes that the LGA will be seeking information from metropolitan councils about

existing shared service arrangements throughout March 2016;

3. notes the establishment of state government simpler regulation unit and requests

that the LGA secretariat report back to the MLGG on ways in which metropolitan

councils can benefit from this work; and

4. invites metropolitan councils to submit expressions of interest for improving

efficiency pilot projects


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Action:

Seek interest from MLGG members in an ‘improving efficiency’ forum and

information about any LGR&DS projects undertaken related to improving efficiency.

Item 5.4 - Endorsed Activities: Precinct Planning / Cycling / Environment

The Committee requested that this report be updated to provide a brief update on the

progress of LGA investigations into tailored finance programs being made available to

councils through the Commonwealth’s Clean Energy Finance Corporation.



1. Notes the report; and

2. Receives and discusses the presentation from the Lord Mayor on the UN

Climate Change Conference, Carbon Neutral Cities and opportunities for

metropolitan councils

Action:

Update the draft report as per the amended recommendation.

Item 6 - LGA Business

It was agreed that the purpose of the ‘LGA Business’ item was for LGA Secretariat to

update MLGG members on matters of interest being discussed by the LGA Board. .

Items to be included in the 9 March agenda:

LGA Reviews Update

LGA Federal Election Strategy

Action:

Reports be prepared on the agreed agenda items for inclusion in the March MLGG

Agenda.

Item 8 - Urgent Business

Mr Pears spoke about the recent announcement regarding Commonwealth investment

in a plan to expand the tram network across the metropolitan area. The MLGG

Executive requested that the LGA Secretariat prepare a report on this issue for the

March MLGG meeting. The MLGG report should emphasise a plan for local

government engagement.


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Action:

LGA Secretariat to prepare a report for the March MLGG meeting.

5. Guest Speaker Requests

A request was received from the SA Local Government Grants Commission for a 45min

workshop. There was discussion as to the purpose of the workshop and whether it was

proposed as a replacement for direct contact with the 19 individual Councils.

Action:

1. LGA secretariat to contact the Commission and ask for further details.

2. The speaker request form to be updated with questions a. how the presentation fits in

with the MLGG’s annual priorities, b. why MLGG is the appropriate group, and include a

guide that presentations should not exceed 20 minutes.

6. Council Initiated Business

Nil requests received for consideration.

7. Other Business

7.1 Metro CEOs strategy meeting

Mr Pears advised that the Metro CEOs committee will be holding a strategy meeting /

workshop to determine priorities for the CEOs group. A report will be brought back to the

MLGG Executive Committee on outcomes.

8. Close

The meeting was declared closed at 12 noon.


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4.3 Report from the Metro CEO Convenor

Representative Report



(Contact – Matt Pears, Metro CEO Convenor)

Financial Implications: Nil


Recommendation


Discussion

A Metropolitan CEO’s Committee meeting was held on 17 February 2016. Executive

Director of the Urban Development Institute of Australia (SA), Mr Pat Gerace was the guest

speaker at the meeting.

Mr Gerace provided background on the origins of the UDIA, its membership structure and its

funding model. The UDIA has members from the whole development sector, including

greenfield and infill developers, engineers, planners and some councils.

In discussing the Planning, Development & Infrastructure Bill, Mr Gerace noted that the

UDIA and LGA had similar views about certain aspects of the Bill, but had differing positions

on the role of Elected Members on Development Assessment Panel. Despite differing points

of view, Mr Gerace advised that the UDIA is careful in its public messaging around this issue

because of the importance of maintaining good relationships with councils.

The announcement about the LGA and the UDIA forming a joint committee was discussed.

Mr Gerace advised that prominent members of the development industry are interested in

this committee and CEOs also noted the importance of this type of forum. CEOs are keen to

engage with the LGA on the formation of the committee and its terms of reference and

desired outcomes.

LGA Executive Director Public Affairs, Lisa Teburea provided an update on the LGA

Governance, Schemes and Subscriptions reviews. CEOs reflected on their role in setting

the agenda for the MLGG and the LGA and decided to hold a workshop to determine the

priorities for CEOs over the next 18 months.

The suggestion of inviting regional councils to participate in the ‘Metropolitan’ Local

Government Games was discussed and CEOs agreed to extend the invitation to all councils.


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CEOs discussed a range of matters relating to rating and financial management and

considered whether there is a role for the SA Local Government Financial Managers Group

to investigate the potential for comparative financial data to be collected across councils.

In summary, the key outcomes from the Metro CEO Committee were to:

Engage with the LGA on the formation of the joint committee with the UDIA

Hold a workshop to determine the priorities of metro CEOs over the next 18 months

As part of the priority setting workshop, consider the benefits of asking the SALGFGM to

look at comparative financial data

Invite all councils to participate in the Local Government Games

The next Metro CEOs meeting will be scheduled for April 2016.

Financial Implications

Nil


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5 MLGG Annual Priorities

5.1 2016 Action Plan: Economic Development

MLGG Annual Priority Report



(LGA Contact – Skana Gallery, Senior Policy Officer- Economic Development & Regions)


MLGG Executive Committee Champion

Mayor Rosenberg

ECM: 635371 Attachment: 633600, 634473, 634474, 635371

Recommendation



2. notes the update on the outcomes of previous Economic Development Think

Tank meetings.

Discussion

At the January 2016 MLGG meeting, the Group endorsed the MLGG 2016 Annual Priority

Action Plan for Economic Development (as attached) and the resources that will be required

to deliver it.

The Plan outlines the following actions and milestones for the March MLGG meeting:

Develop an online resource of best practice case studies and relevant reference

material of SA councils in economic development.

Prepare a directory of relevant State Government officers to facilitate improved

connection and communication between councils and State Government agencies.

Receive a report from the Metro Local Government Tourism Officers Network

regarding their priority activities for 2016 along with any resource requirements.


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Online resource of best practice economic development case studies

Over the last two years, the MLGG has hosted a series of economic development forums

designed to share best practice case studies among metropolitan councils, including elected

members and senior staff. The case studies presented are also captured in written form and

are being made available on the Economic Development page of the LGA website

(http://www.lga.sa.gov.au/page.aspx?u=264).

Other case studies are being collected as they come to light and councils have been invited

to submit examples for discussion at MLGG meetings.

LG Professionals has included an award for excellence in economic development for the first

time this year. There may be an opportunity to curate the entries to the LGA’s collection.

Economic Development Australia (EDA) also holds annual awards for excellence in various

categories of economic development. The winners’ and finalists’ case studies are available

to EDA members.

The EDA South Australian Practitioners’ Network (EDA-SA) has recently launched a

‘Knowledge Bank’ website, the purpose of which is to blog regularly on key economic issues

and business development initiatives, as a digital tool to engage with practitioners directly

and keep them informed of a range of new economic initiatives.

EDA-SA is developing a proposal to sign a memorandum of understanding with the LGA and

this could include special access to, or on, the Knowledge Bank. The Knowledge Bank can

be viewed (and subscribed to) via this link www.edasouthaustralia.com.au

The LGA will continue to monitor opportunities to promote best practice in economic

development to councils.

Directory of State Government contacts

A directory of State Government officers’ direct telephone numbers and email addresses is

being compiled for the agencies that most frequently intersect with the work of the Local

Government sector. It is proposed that the directory will be hosted on the LGA website so

that it can be updated easily as required.

When ‘version one’ of the directory is released, council staff will be invited to identify any

further State Government contacts they would like included on it. Version one is expected to

be released in March.

Metro Local Government Tourism Officers Network regarding their priority activities for 2016

The South Australian Tourism Industry Council has come to the realisation that Local

Government is significantly invested in tourism and the visitor economy and is a key

contributor to the development of the industry.

The State Government’s tourism agency, the SA Tourism Commission (SATC), also

acknowledges this and the two organisations have begun to collaborate with the LGA on

tourism development.



http://www.edasouthaustralia.com.au/

ECM 635703


An early initiative of this collaboration is the establishment of a Metro Local Government

Tourism Officers Network given that there is no metropolitan Adelaide tourism organisation

(there are 11 Regional Tourism Organisations (RTOs) supported in part by the SATC) and

scarce tourism expertise in many councils.

Seventeen metro councils were invited to attend the first Network meeting last October and

twelve councils accepted and attended. Gawler and Adelaide Hills Councils are each

affiliated with a RTO.

The SATC, SATIC and the LGA all gave presentations at that meeting, following which the

group discussed and identified a number of projects and initiatives that would be appropriate

for the group to focus on. The list was prioritised down to the following top six ideas:

1. Standardised data collection and return on investment information

2. Increase councils’ understanding of the value of tourism

3. Professional development, including sharing stories of success and failures

4. Facilitate regional collaboration

5. Joint marketing

6. Support for businesses (eg. cultural awareness)

The Network met for a second time in February 2016 and decided to form small working

groups to progress some of the priorities, including:

Standardised data collection

Local Government Tourism Forum adjacent to the annual SATIC conference in May

The Network was also asked to identify resource requirements for its 2016 activities, which

will be reported to the MLGG, which has budgeted $10,000 to support the Network.

Local Government China Engagement

The Shandong Local Government Working Group continues to meet regularly and is now

focused on preparing for the outbound mission on 5-9 April 2016, including the development

of the business-to-business platform (website) where SA councils and Shandong prefectures

can facilitate direct connections between their local businesses.

The Platform will be launched in all five cities on the April itinerary to audiences of

approximately 1,000 Chinese business people in each and also features information about

the participating councils.

The Local Government delegation is expected to be bigger than last year’s (25

representatives from 14 councils) with as many as 18 or more councils deciding to send their

Mayor, CEO and economic development officer. LGA President Mayor Dave Burgess and

Senior Policy Officer, Economic Development and Regions, Skana Gallery, will again

coordinate the Local Government delegation in partnership with the Australia China

Business Council (ACBC). Some representatives from a number of Regional Development


ECM 635703


Australia (RDA) associations will also travel with the Local Government delegation in support

of their member councils.

The draft program for the mission is attached.

The LGA China Engagement Strategy (attached) has also been released and the

accompanying Guide is in development.


Funds have previously been approved by the MLGG for the activities relating to this priority

outlined in this report.

The LGA has provided funding for two representatives to travel to Shandong in April.

Attachments:


ECM 635703


Metropolitan Local Government Group

2016 Annual Priority – Economic Development

The MLGG 2016 Economic Development Action Plan has been developed based on the

work of the MLGG in 2015 including Economic Development Forums and the outcomes of

the Economic Think Tank, as well as the State Government's 10 Economic Priorities as an

agreed priority for the Premier's State-Local Government Forum, along with the LGA

Economic Development Statement.

MLGG Economic Development Champion - Mayor Lorraine Rosenberg

Summary of 2016 Priorities

MLGG Meeting Date

Actions and Milestones

Resourcing & Budget Requirements

In 2016, the MLGG seeks to achieve the following objectives in relation to economic development: 1. Investigate ways

metropolitan councils can facilitate and nurture business innovation, particularly start-ups, referencing the Australian Government’s National Innovation and Science Agenda.

2. Work with industry leaders to inform policy positions and undertake joint advocacy to ensure there’s an industry perspective.

3. Develop adaptable how-to guides on ways councils can engage with their local business communities to achieve tangible economic development outcomes.

March 2016 Develop an online resource of best practice case studies and relevant reference material of SA councils in economic development.

Prepare a directory of relevant State Government officers to facilitate improved connection and communication between councils and State Government agencies.

Receive a report from the Metro Local Government Tourism Officers Network regarding their priority activities for 2016 along with any

Nil

Nil

Projects - $10,000


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4. Hold three Think Tank meetings to advance Local Government performance in these areas:

1. Create new businesses

2. Grow existing businesses

3. Property development

5. Share ideas and examples of leading and effective practice in economic development through forums and case studies.

6. Promote the importance of mainstreet amenity and streetscaping.

7. Invite members to provide presentations/reports to the MLGG on the initiatives they implemented, including those that have not been successful.

8. Support the newly formed Metro Local Government Tourism Officers Network to undertake projects of mutual benefit.

resource requirements.

May 2016 Receive report from Think Tank meeting.

Review the National Innovation and Science Agenda to develop guidelines for providing a supportive environment for new businesses.

Hold an economic development forum based on the Property Council’s Mainstreet Best Practice guides.

Report/presentation on leading / effective council economic development initiative.

Meeting expenses - $300

Consultant - $10,000


Nil

July 2016 Receive report from Think Tank meeting.

Work with industry leaders to develop policy positions and undertake joint advocacy – eg. for funding for economic infrastructure projects.



Nil

Nil


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September 2016

Receive report from Think Tank meeting.

Develop adaptable how-to guides on ways councils engage with their local business communities.



Consultant - $5,000

Nil

November 2016

Prepare a consolidated, prioritised list of major Adelaide economic infrastructure projects requiring funding.


Consultant - $5,000


ECM 635703



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Recommendations and Outcomes from Previous MLGG Economic

Development Think Tank Meetings and Outstanding Actions

Discussion

This report provides information about the progress of recommendations from previous

meetings of the MLGG Economic Development Think Tank.

This report is provided as an attachment to the Economic Development Annual Priority

report, with a recommendation that the MLGG notes progress on the recommendations

from the previous think tank meetings.

Recommendations from the Think Tank Meeting – 9

December 2015 MLGG Activity

Focus on the following three distinct aspects of business

development:

Grow new businesses

Grow existing businesses

Property development

Hosting three Think Tank meetings in

2016, each focusing on one of these

themes.

Continued investment in infrastructure should be

promoted by Local Government as a collective,

specifying needs and target projects.

The following report is scheduled for

the November MLGG meeting:

Prepare a consolidated, prioritised list

of major Adelaide economic

infrastructure projects requiring

funding.

Local Government and business working together to

jointly advocate for change.


the July MLGG meeting:

Work with industry leaders to develop

policy positions and undertake joint

advocacy – eg. funding for economic

infrastructure projects.

Open dialogue and listen to business.


the September MLGG meeting:

Develop adaptable how-to guides on

ways councils engage with their local

business communities.

Develop an environment that enables people to try The following report is scheduled for


ECM 635703


things, fail quickly, learn, improve, succeed; for example,

reducing costs for start-ups, which need cheap working

spaces.

the May MLGG meeting:

Review the National Innovation and

Science Agenda to develop guidelines

for providing a supportive environment

for new businesses.

Greater risk tolerance is required to enable innovation.

Local Government needs to show leadership and accept

that change involves risk, including being prepared to

make mistakes.

One of the pillars of the National

Innovation Agenda is ‘government as

an exemplar’.

Councils to gain a better understanding of the value of

mainstreets as a point of focus for council areas and to

drive their performance with a focus on vacancy rates.

The following action is scheduled for

the May MLGG meeting:

Hold an economic development forum

based on the Property Council’s

Mainstreet Best Practice guides.

Reduce compliance costs, eg. consider a moratorium on

some rules and fees to stimulate development.

The MLGG’s Improving Efficiency

Action Plan includes the following

priority action:

Develop a ‘simpler regulation’

framework for metropolitan councils to

adopt when developing and reviewing

policies and processes.

Councils can have a profound impact through improving

amenity and promoting activities like markets.

No specific action for the MLGG

Council’s role is to set the vision for the community’s

future, promote it and rally support from local business,

build it and encourage partners.

Included as a priority role for Local

Government in local economic

development.

Provide different methods to consult with business

people, to ensure their voices are heard and they don't

feel vulnerable expressing an opinion ‘in public’.

To be developed in line with the State

Government’s agenda for better

community consultation.

Suggestion that future Think Tanks include:

financiers to discuss cost of capital, accessible

finances

a State Government infrastructure representative

This will be considered for future

Think Tank agendas

Remove the silo mentality within councils to ensure that

the business perspective is recognised and considered

across council departments.

To be included as part of the LGA’s

reform agenda to position the sector

as a driver of economic development

by setting economic development as a


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top priority across all LG portfolios.

Recommendations from the Think Tank Meeting – 2 July

2015

Work with State Government on opportunities for red

tape reduction conducive to business development.

Notes from first Regulators Network

Forum are attached to the Improving

Efficiency Action Plan report.

Pilot a working group of business and local government

representatives to resolve an issue that is detrimental to

local business and economic development, applicable to

metropolitan Adelaide Councils.

Councils have been asked to submit

expressions of interest to undertake

such initiatives.

Identify the barriers to establishing a small business and

develop strategies to reduce these. Educate councils to

gain a better understanding of what it takes to establish

a small business.

The following milestone is scheduled

for the September MLGG meeting:

Develop best practice guides on how

councils engage with their local

business communities to achieve

tangible economic development

outcomes.

Continue to develop mechanisms for collaboration with

the State Government in economic development.

Coordinating the LG program for the April Shandong mission

Collaborating with the SATC to support the newly established Metro Tourism Officers Network

Advocate for the broadening of the Small Venue Licence

beyond the CBD.

LGA submission to the review of the

Liquor Licencing Act.

Continue to facilitate opportunities for councils to learn

from each other through mechanisms such as the MLGG

Economic Development Forums.

Each MLGG agenda includes the

following item:

Report/presentation on leading /

effective council economic

development initiative.


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5.2 2016 Action Plan: Planning




(LGA Contact – Andrew Webster, Senior Policy Officer Planning)



Mayor Spragg

ECM: 635236 Attachment: 633602

Recommendation



2. receives and discusses an update on activities relating to the Planning,

Development and Infrastructure Bill 2015;

3. notes that activities relating to the 30 Year Plan update are being coordinated

with DPTI;

4. notes that an update on the Heritage and Character planning project will be

provided to the May MLGG meeting;

5. invites metropolitan councils to submit expressions of interest for

implementing and reporting on planning culture and practice improvement

initiatives; and

6. receives an update on the status of the MOU between the LGA and

Development Industry Groups, which was signed in February 2014.

Discussion

The endorsed MLGG action plan for the planning priority includes 4 items of the March

MLGG meeting:

Receive a report on and discuss the progress of the Planning, Development &

Infrastructure Bill 2015 and implementation arrangements.


ECM 635703


Receive a report and presentation from DPTI on the progress of the update of the ‘30-

Year Plan for Greater Adelaide’.

Recommence work on the ‘Heritage and Character’ project that was deferred in 2015.

Seek interest and commitment from MLGG members to implement and report on

planning culture and practice improvement initiatives.

A copy of the Action Plan is attached for members’ information.

Planning, Development & Infrastructure Bill 2016

Parliament resumed for 2016 on 9 February and the Planning, Development and

Infrastructure Bill has progressed.

At the conclusion of the second sitting week in February, the Bill had reached Clause 128,

leaving more than 100 clauses still to be debated in the Legislative Council.

The slow pace of the debate can be attributed to the significant number of amendments that

have been filed by the Government, Opposition and the Greens. The LGA is tracking the

debate and will provide a summary of changes to the Bill at the conclusion of debate in the

Upper House.

All councils were provided with a member from the LGA President on Friday 26 February

regarding the status of debate relating to DAPs. At the time of writing the report, it was

uncertain about whether the Liberal Party would continue to support any role for Elected

Members on Development Assessment Panels.

The clauses relating to infrastructure funding mechanisms are yet to be debated, but are

likely to succeed with key development sector withdrawing their opposition.

Once concluded in the Legislative Council, the Bill will need to go back to the House of

Assembly for recommittal. Any points of disagreement between the Houses will result in a

deadlock committee being formed to negotiate a compromise outcome.

A second ‘implementation’ Bill is required to be passed through both Houses of Parliament

before any of the Planning, Development & Infrastructure Bill can be enacted. The timing of

this second Bill is dependent on the passage of the first Bill. This is expected to be

introduced in 2016.

Ongoing discussions between the LGA and DPTI regarding the process of establishing a

high level implementation committee and several working groups to work on the detail of the

reforms once the Bill has passed continues to be a priority. This will assist the secretariat in

the preparation of policies, plans and strategies that will inform the implementation of the

planning reforms from a metropolitan local government perspective.

30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide Update

The update of the 30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide is progressing. Representatives from

DPTI have visited all of the councils captured by the Plan and DPTI are now rolling out a

series of facilitated consultation sessions. A workshop for council planners, peak bodies and

consulting firms was held on 25 February.


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The Secretariat is seeking information from DPTI about further consultation events and an

update on activities will be provided to the MLGG meeting if available.

Heritage and Character Project

In 2015 a reference group of council planning staff was established to provide advice on the

potential scope of an MLGG project to develop a position paper on heritage and character in

the reformed planning system. This project was deferred in order to assess the direction of

the Planning, Development & Infrastructure Bill and to link in with the state government’s

implementation timeframe.

With debate on the Bill now significantly progressed, the timing is now better to progress this

work. The LGA will reconvene the reference group and prepare a project plan for

consideration at the May MLGG meeting.

Planning Culture & Practice

Interest is sought from MLGG councils to implement and report on planning culture and

practice improvement initiatives. The purpose of this is to share and promote best practice

in planning across the sector.

Expressions of interest for councils to undertake activities will be sought through a formal

process. Part of the interest sought from councils to participate in these pilots includes a

commitment to provide regular reports on progress and outcomes to the MLGG.

Engagement with Development Sector Peak Bodies

In February 2016, the LGA and UDIA jointly announced the formation of new joint

partnership. Details of the announcement can be found in an LGA media release at

https://www.lga.sa.gov.au/page.aspx?u=198&t=uList&ulistId=0&c=66647. The LGA and the

UDIA have a history of working together to achieve positive outcomes. The standard

development bonding agreement and practice guidelines for engagement between councils

and developers are two examples of previous collaboration that has been mutually

beneficial.

Details of the joint working committee are yet to be determined and discussions between the

LGA and the UDIA will progress when the UDIA National Congress concludes on 10 March.

The new partnership with the UDIA has raised questions about the status of the MOU that

was signed between the LGA and development industry peak bodies in February 2014.

Information about the MOU can be found at https://www.lga.sa.gov.au/page.aspx?c=35888

Signatories to the MOU were the President and CEO of the LGA, Property Council of South

Australia, Urban Development Institute of Australia (SA), Master Builders Association (SA),

Civil Contractors Federation (SA Branch) and Business SA.

The MOU recognises the importance of the development sector and Local Government

working together to enhance economic growth in SA and sets the following three priority

issues to work together on:

infrastructure contributions;


https://www.lga.sa.gov.au/page.aspx?u=198&t=uList&ulistId=0&c=66647

https://www.lga.sa.gov.au/page.aspx?c=35888

ECM 635703


good practice approaches to engagement in the context of ICAC; and

strategies to streamline the planning system and remove red tape.

The LGA hosted a series of roundtables to progress a joint agenda and also had joint or

one on one meetings with signatories to discuss responses to the Expert Panel on

Planning Reform and the Planning, Development & Infrastructure Bill.

While some matters remained points of disagreement, particularly in relation to the role of

councils in development assessment, the MOU assisted in building shared principles for

infrastructure contributions, data sharing and the development of guidelines for

engagement between the two sectors.

Despite these early outcomes, the value of the MOU has declined over the past 18

months with four of the six signatories now having a new CEO and President, some of

whom have consistently acted outside the spirit of the MOU.

Given that time has passed and circumstances have changed since the MOU was signed,

the LGA Secretariat is currently considering new and meaningful ways in which to

enhance relationships between local government and the development sector.


Nil

Attachment:


ECM 635703



2016 Annual Priority – Planning

The MLGG 2016 Economic Development Action Plan has been developed drawing from the

sector's work in and contribution to planning reforms.

MLGG Planning Champion - Mayor Bill Spragg


MLGG Meeting Date

Actions and Milestones Resourcing & Budget Requirements

In 2016, the MLGG seeks to achieve the following objectives in relation to planning:

1. Remain informed on

the passage of new planning legislation through the Parliament and work with the LGA to achieve influence for Local Government.

2. Work with the LGA and state government to remain informed on and participate in the implementation of planning reforms.

3. Undertake research and prepare policies, plans and strategies that will inform the implementation of planning reforms from a metropolitan local government perspective.

4. Engage with the development sector and industry groups to strengthen

March 2016 Receive a report on and discuss the progress of the Planning, Development & Infrastructure Bill 2015 and implementation arrangements.

Receive a report and presentation from DPTI on the progress of the update of the 30-Year Plan for Greater Adelaide.

Recommence work on the ‘Heritage and Character’ project that was deferred in 2015.

Seek interest and commitment from MLGG members to implement and report on planning culture and practice improvement initiatives.

Nil

Nil

$15,000 previously committed for this work

Nil

May 2016 Receive a report on strategic activities to be undertaken in partnership with industry groups such as UDIA, PIA & EDA.

Receive a report on the implementation planning reforms and identify

Some activities may require funding support- TBA

TBA


ECM 635703


relationships and resolve agreed issues.

5. Promote a positive planning and development culture within metropolitan councils.

6. Share ideas and examples about best practice in planning and explore opportunities to work together.

7. Invite members to provide reports to the MLGG on the new initiatives that they implemented, including those that have not been successful.

research, policies, plans and strategies that will assist metropolitan councils.

Report/presentation on council initiatives related to planning improvement.

Nil

July 2016 Depending on timing, the LGA Secretariat will provide anupdate report on consultation andnegotiation activities undertakenfollowing the introduction of a second planning Bill into Parliament.

Invite development sector representatives to address the MLGG.


Nil

Nil

Nil

September 2016

Depending on timing, the LGA Secretariat will provide anupdate report on consultation andnegotiation activities undertakenfollowing the introduction of a second planning Bill into Parliament.

Receive a report on strategic activities to be undertaken in partnership with industry groups such as UDIA, PIA & EDA.


Nil

Some activities may require funding support- TBA

Nil

November 2016

Receive a final report on the ‘Heritage and Character’ project.


ECM 635703




ECM 635703


5.3 2016 Action Plan: Improving Efficiency




(LGA Contact – Skana Gallery, Senior Policy Officer- Economic Development & Regions)



Mayor Redman

ECM: 635372 Attachments: 633601; another to be tabled at meeting

Recommendation


1. notes the report; 2. notes that the LGA will be seeking information from metropolitan councils

about existing shared service arrangements throughout March 2016; 3. notes the establishment of state government simpler regulation unit and

requests that the LGA secretariat report back to the MLGG on ways in which metropolitan councils can benefit from this work; and

4. invites metropolitan councils to submit expressions of interest for improving efficiency pilot projects

Discussion

At the January 2016 MLGG meeting, the Group endorsed the MLGG 2016 Annual Priority

Action Plan for Improving Efficiency (as attached) and the resources that will be required to

deliver it.

The Plan outlines the following actions and milestones for the March MLGG meeting:

Undertake an audit and economic analysis of shared services and formal collaboration/partnerships arrangements between metropolitan councils

Invite metropolitan councils to submit potential program items for the LGA Best Practice Showcase being held in April 2015.

Receive a report on the work of the state government’s ‘simpler regulation unit’ and the opportunities for local government engagement.

Seek interest and commitment from MLGG members to pilot programs and initiatives to improve efficiency and provide regular reports on progress and outcomes.


ECM 635703


Shared Services Audit

The MLGG has resolved to investigate the role of shared services in improving efficiency in

metropolitan councils. To progress this, the LGA will be undertaking an audit of existing

shared service arrangements across the whole local government sector.

There are a number of purposes for the audit including:

Identifying best practice examples to assist development of further shared services opportunities

To undertake economic modelling to demonstrate the significant cost savings to councils to be gained in pursuing these opportunities

To demonstrate to the State Government that Local Government is driving its own efficiency agenda and that further regulation is not required

A similar review was undertaken in 2007 as part of the Financial Sustainability Program.

The audit will be undertaken throughout March 2016 and MLGG members are requested to

provide details of shared service arrangements currently in place. A template specifying the

information required will be distributed to all councils..

Following collection of the information, a consulting firm will be engaged to provide economic

analysis and quantify the value of shared services. A report that focusses on metropolitan

shared services will be presented to a future MLGG meeting once this work has concluded.

The MLGG has endorsed funding of $20,000 to undertake this initiative.

LGA Best Practice Showcase

The LGA Best Practice Showcase provides an opportunity for councils to share proven

examples of improved efficiency.

The LGA released a circular on 14 January 2016 inviting expressions of interest from

councils to participate in the 2016 Council Best Practice Showcase, which will be held at the

Adelaide Showgrounds on 14 - 15 April. MLGG members were further reminded of the

opportunity to submit ideas via email on 11 February.

Three projects or initiatives with a direct link to efficiency were submitted for consideration.

Two of the submissions came from the same council. The LGA has been able to

accommodate two presentations within the program at a dedicated ‘efficiency’ session. All

expressions of interest are reviewed by the LGA to develop a program that showcases a

variety of topics, variety of councils and mix of country and metro examples

A final conference program will be available on an LGA circular soon, once all speaking

spots have been confirmed.

Simpler Regulation Unit

The state government’s simpler regulation team hosted the first forum of the new SA

Regulators Reform Network on ‘Outcome-based and Risk-based Approaches to Regulation’

last November.


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The forum’s objectives included how to get regulation that is better targeted, more effective

and uses fewer resources. It was designed to help officers to drive positive changes in their

organisations, including how to embed the knowledge and implement changes.

Notes from the forum will be tabled at the meeting and opportunities for ongoing local

government involvement in the network are being explored. The LGA secretariat will provide

a further report on options for participation.

Improving Efficiency Pilot Programs

Interest is sought from MLGG councils to pilot programs and initiatives to improve efficiency

within local government. Some of the ideas generated at last year’s MLGG Economic

Development Think Tank meetings proposed ways councils may be able to increase

efficiency. These will be developed into example opportunities for councils to consider

piloting throughout 2016.

Expressions of interest for councils to participate in pilot programs will be sought. Part of the

interest sought from councils to participate in these pilots includes a commitment to provide

regular reports on progress and outcomes to the MLGG. Councils may also nominate to

present to the MLGG on initiatives they have already implemented.


Funds have previously been approved by the MLGG for the activities relating to this priority

outlined in this report.

Attachment:


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2016 Annual Priority – Improving Efficiency

The MLGG 2016 Improving Efficiency Action Plan has been developed drawing from the

draft Regional Governance Framework, the outcomes of the Economic Development Think

Tank, and the 2016 priorities indicated for the Premier's State-Local Government Forum.

MLGG Improving Efficiency Champion - Mayor Karen Redman


MLGG Meeting Date

Actions and Milestones Resourcing & Budget Requirements

In 2016, the MLGG seeks to achieve the following objectives in relation to improving efficiency:

1. Build an understanding of past and existing arrangements and models for shared services, collaboration and partnerships in metropolitan councils and seek out best practice.

2. Develop a ‘simpler regulation’ framework for metropolitan councils to adopt when developing and reviewing policies and processes.

3. Build an understanding of the role of new technologies in achieving efficiencies in councils.

4. Advocate for the removal/amendment of

March 2016

Undertake an audit and economic analysis of shared services and formal collaboration/partnerships arrangements between metropolitan councils

Invite metropolitan councils to submit potential program items for the LGA Best Practice Showcase being held in April 2015.

Receive a report on the work of the state government’s ‘simpler regulation unit’ and the opportunities for local government engagement.

Seek interest and commitment from MLGG members to pilot programs and initiatives to improve efficiency and provide regular reports on progress and outcomes.

Consultant- budget $20,000

Nil

Nil

Nil

May 2016 Commission research on opportunities to achieve efficiencies in local government through the use of emerging technologies.

Consultant- budget $20,000


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state government regulations that are impacting on local government efficiency (including community engagement regulations)

5. Explore opportunities for councils to get the most value out of community engagement through creating engagement techniques.

6. Invite members to provide reports or presentations to the MLGG on the new efficiency initiatives that they implemented, including any lessons that can be learned from initiatives that have not been successful.

7. Investigate the existing and potential use of ‘case management’ roles within councils to assist businesses and investors to navigate regulatory processes.

Receive a report on the outcomes of the LGA Best Practice Showcase and consider any relevant actions for the MLGG.

Receive a report on creative engagement techniques and the legislative barriers to their use in local government.

Report/presentation on council initiative to improve efficiency.

Undertake an audit of the regulations that councils apply to determine which are compulsory and which are discretionary.

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

July 2016 Consult with metropolitan councils and business leaders to develop an advocacy platform for the removal or streamlining of state government regulation that impacts on local government and business sector efficiency.

Through the CEOs group, develop a framework for a 2018 State Election strategy, with an emphasis on local government reform and efficiency.


Consultant- $10,000

Nil

Nil

September 2016

Update and relaunch the Framework for Customer Service Standards in Local Government.

Research examples of case

Consultant- $10,000


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management roles in governments nationally and develop a model suitable for metropolitan councils in SA.


Nil

Nil

November 2016

Receive a final research report on opportunities to achieve efficiencies in local government through technology.

Receive a summary report on the initiatives that have been undertaken and reported on in 2016.

Nil

Nil


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5.4 2016 Endorsed Activities: Precinct

Planning/Cycling/Environment Including Lord Mayor

address on UN Climate Change conference




(LGA Contact – Lisa Teburea Executive Director Public Affairs


MLGG Executive Committee Champions

Mayor Parkin (Cycling) and Mayor Clyne (Environment)

ECM: 635263 Attachment: Nil

Recommendation


Discussion

At its January meeting, the MLGG endorsed activities to be undertaken relating to precinct

planning, cycling and environment (carbon neutral cities). This report provides an update on

endorsed activities.

Precinct Planning

At its November 2015 Meeting, the MLGG were informed that the final document entitled

“Precinct Planning Guidelines – When should a precinct be used? What is the role of

Council”? has been completed, professionally designed and distributed to Councils.

Furthermore, it approved a separate piece of work (beyond the initial scope of the project) to

be undertaken to analyse alternate governance frameworks to precinct authorities.

To progress this work, the LGA secretariat has engaged a consultant to investigate and

report on the alternative options that may be available. This work is now underway with the

objective of providing a comparative analysis, which will clearly outlines but is not

necessarily limited to:

• What these alternatives are,

• How and when they can be used and by whom,

• How they differ from the Urban Renewal Act 2014 and


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• What the impact may be for Councils.

A report of the findings will be presented to the MLGG upon completion of the investigation.

It is envisaged that this body of work will be used in a supplementary manner in conjunction

with the recently completed “precinct Planning Guidelines” and distributed to Councils.

Cycling

The City of Burnside has been invited to be invited to run a pilot program, in conjunction with

the Way2Go program to encourage more children to cycle to school.

Funding from the MLGG of $5,000 has been offered for this pilot program for the purpose of

extracting the lessons and principles that can be applied to other projects across the sector.

Subject to acceptance of this offer, Mayor Parkin will continue to champion this initiative and

report back to the MLGG on the progress and outcomes of the pilot program.

Environment (Carbon Neutral Cities)

Further to the report provided to the LGA Board at its January meeting outlining the

opportunities for local government as a result of the Paris Climate Change Agreement (made

under the UN Framework Convention of Climate Change), Lord Mayor Martin Haese has

been invited to address the MLGG at its March meeting to outline the opportunities as they

relate to Carbon Neutral Cities and the specific opportunities that exist for metropolitan

councils.

Based on initial discussions between the LGA Secretariat and the champion of this initiative

(Mayor Clyne), discussions have been initiated with both the Clean Energy Finance

Corporation (CEFC) and the Local Government Finance Authority (LGFA) to determine the

most cost effective means of leveraging investment from the Federal Government for

activities relating to low carbon investment in metropolitan areas.

The secretariat also plans to undertake feasibility studies relating to demand and

applicability of current technologies across metropolitan councils, which will inform the

determination of the extent of investment required. The secretariat will report back to the

MLGG on completion of these studies.


Nil


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6 LGA Business

6.1 Update Re Various LGA Board Reviews / Decisions

LGA Business



(LGA Contact – Kathy Jarrett, Executive Director, Corporate and Member Services)



Recommendation

That the Metropolitan Local Government Group notes the update provided on the

progress of the following reviews and decisions of the Board:

establishment of an LGA Audit Committee;

Schemes review;

LGA Board Governance review; and

subscriptions review.

Discussion

In January 2016, the LGA Board resolved to pursue a number of key initiatives including:

• establishment of an LGA Audit Committee; • Schemes review; • LGA Board Governance review; and • subscriptions review.

These are important issues for the sector. Each is focused on improving our systems of

governance, and will contribute to our sector’s success.

The LGA is committed to transparency, and to reporting back to the sector regularly, and at

key decision points. The purpose of this report is in line with that commitment, providing the

MLGG with an update on progress to date associated with each of the above initiatives.

Establishment of an LGA Audit Committee

As previously advised to the sector, the LGA Audit Committee comprises three independent

members, and one Board member representative as follows:

Rosina Hislop (Chair)


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Yvonne Sneddon

Alan Tregilgas

Mayor David Parkin

Since being established, three induction sessions have been held providing information

regarding the LGA’s structure; strategic plan; key financial indicators; audit information; and

details about the three reviews currently underway. During these sessions, discussion was

held about the Committee’s forward work program which, in addition to the three reviews,

will include consideration of the LGA’s annual business plan and budget, long term financial

plan, overall financial performance and sustainability, risk profile, internal controls and other

related entities. The first formal meeting of the Committee is scheduled to be held on

Tuesday 15 March, with two further meetings being scheduled for 5 April and 3 May

respectively. Agendas and reports for these meetings will be available on the LGA website

as per standard practice.

Schemes, Governance & Subscription Reviews

Communication from the LGA President to Mayors and CEOs in February highlighted that

project plans had been developed for each of the above reviews, and that the sector’s

involvement would be sought throughout the processes through email, forums, surveys and

sub committees.

Sub committees have now been formed for each of the reviews, with representatives drawn

from Mayors and CEOs, metropolitan and regional, and large and small councils. The first

meetings of the Committees have also been scheduled over the next two weeks with the

view to refining the scope of work to be undertaken and associated timeframes. For the

Governance and Subscription reviews, the first meeting will also commence work on

developing and refining options for governance reform and the LGA subscriptions formula in

preparation for a President’s Forum to be held in conjunction with the LGA’s Ordinary

General Meeting on 13 April 2016.

The President’s Forum will be addressing several key issues for our sector in 2016 including:

Councils of the Future:

• Regional Governance Framework • Council Boundary Adjustment Process

LGA of the Future:

• LGA Governance Review • LGA Subscriptions Review

This Forum will play a key role in seeking feedback from the sector about future options.

It is still early days for each of these reviews, and accordingly this update report is at a

summary level. As these reviews progress, more detailed updates will be provided.


Nil.


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6.2 Federal Election Strategy

LGA Business



(LGA Contact – Chris Russell, Director Communications)



Recommendation


Backgound

At its last meeting MLGG noted progress on the development of an LGA SA federal election

strategy, invited Metropolitan councils to provide feedback on the draft federal election

document and requested that the Minister for Cities and Environment, and the Shadow

Minister for Cities be invited to address MLGG, to outline their vision for Cities and the role

envisaged for local government in fulfilling that vision.

Discussion

The LGA draft federal election document was circulated to all councils on 18 February for

feedback by 18 March.

The LGA CEO, President and Immediate Past President attended the ALGA strategic

planning session in WA on 16 to18 February. The session was a chance for the ALGA Board

to work through a range of issues including the federal election strategy. The meeting

agreed to explore opportunities to investigate bulk purchasing of campaign related materials

and media.

State Association CEOs are planning to meet to further discuss the strategy including details

of the launch. The ALGA federal election document is expected to be considered again at

the March board meeting and released sometime after the May budget.

The Secretariat is continuing to work on the detailed strategy for SA local government.

During January to April, meetings are being held with SA federal MPs and Senators and

their feedback, together with that from councils will be used to re-shape and tighten up the

messages contained in the federal election document 'Productivity through Partnerships'.

Further updates and opportunities for engagement and participation will be reported to

MLGG and councils.


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7 Council Initiated Business

Nil received.

8 Urgent Business

8.1 Infrastructure Australia report Prioritising a Tram

Network for Adelaide

Urgent Business





Recommendation



2. considers an appropriate role for the MLGG in the development of a tram

network plan for metropolitan Adelaide.

Discussion

Infrastructure Australia released the first Australian Infrastructure Plan on 17 February 2016.

The Plan sets out an aspirational list of 93 priority infrastructure projects and initiatives for

the nation, including an ‘options assessment’ for the expansion of the Adelaide tram

network, referred to in the report as the AdeLINK Tram Network.

The proposal was nominated by the Government of South Australia and would see

expansion of the tram network throughout the CBD and into the inner rim suburbs to the

north, south, east and west. There is also a proposed link to Port Adelaide, which would

entail conversion of existing diesel heavy rail to a modern electric light rail service.

At a Committee for Economic Development of Australia (CEDA-SA) event on 19 February,

Premier Jay Weatherill discussed the state government’s plan to progress this initiative with

a $4 million tender to undertake a scoping study and prepare a business case for the

expansion of the tram network. This work will cover many areas, including:

• planning and design;


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• consultation with key stakeholders;

• development of the precise tram routes and stops;

• analysis of the environmental and land development benefits; and

• a calculation of the final project costs.

While the state government has already outlined a general plan for an expanded tram

network, the MLGG Executive Committee considered that this initiative warrants a

discussion to determine the role that metropolitan councils should play in the planning of the

network and the funding model that will be required to support it.

Further information about this proposal is available to members at the following sites:

Infrastructure Australia Report:

http://infrastructureaustralia.gov.au/policy-publications/publications/Australian-Infrastructure-

Plan.aspx

Premier’s CEDA luncheon speech, 19 February 2016:

http://www.premier.sa.gov.au/images/speeches/160219-CEDA-Luncheon.pdf


Resources may be required to progress any actions that the MLGG considers to be

appropriate.


http://infrastructureaustralia.gov.au/policy-publications/publications/Australian-Infrastructure-Plan.aspx

http://infrastructureaustralia.gov.au/policy-publications/publications/Australian-Infrastructure-Plan.aspx

http://www.premier.sa.gov.au/images/speeches/160219-CEDA-Luncheon.pdf

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9 Upcoming MLGG Related Events

9.1 MLGG Executive Committee – 1pm, 18 April 2016 at Local Government House

9.2 Metro CEOs Group – 1pm, 20 April 2016 at The Caledonian Hotel, 219 O’Connell

Street, Adelaide

9.3 Metro Mayors Luncheon – 11 May 2016 (Unley Council)

10 Next Meeting

The next meeting of the Metropolitan Local Government Group will be held at 4.30pm on

Wednesday 11 May 2016 at Local Government House, 148 Frome Street, Adelaide.

11 Close


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148 Frome St

Adelaide SA 5000

GPO Box 2693

Adelaide SA 5001

T (08) 8224 2000

F (08) 8232 6336

E [email protected]

www.lga.sa.gov.au

148 Frome St

Adelaide SA 5000

GPO Box 2693

Adelaide SA 5001

T (08) 8224 2000

F (08) 8232 6336

E [email protected]

www.lga.sa.gov.au


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