More urgency needed to address council woes and impending rate rises
The Minns Labor Government has announced yet another review, this time to address the financial stability of local councils and rising cost pressures impacting ratepayers across NSW.
Shadow Minister for Local Government Wendy Tuckerman said the Minns Government have announced over 30 reviews, but lack the policy and detail to deal with the issues facing NSW.
“As we near the first anniversary of the Minns Government, it’s clear that they have no plans or vision for NSW. We have a Local Government Minister who’s more interested in shoring up support for the minority Labor Government than doing his job to address issues facing local councils,” Ms Tuckerman said.
“Labor’s cost of living crisis is impacting ratepayers and there could be more pain to come with an increase rates proposed by numerous Councils across the State, I question why Chris Minns and his Minister are not addressing this matter with more urgency.
The Minns Government has stated the review is due to be finalised 12 months after the terms of reference have been finalised. Submissions close on the 15 March for comment on the Terms of Reference.
“We’re almost a year into the Minns Government and the best they can do is offer possible solutions in more than 12 months. The Minister has repeatedly talked down local councils and questioned their spending, given how infrequently Parliament will meet in 2024, he should do his job, sit down with Mayors and work on solutions,” Ms Tuckerman said.
“I expect that Chris Minns will again have to come to the rescue of one of his Ministers who isn’t up to the job. Local communities across NSW deserve better.”
“Households, families and businesses are paying the price for Chris Minns’ broken promises. They shouldn’t’ have to also pay the price for the inaction of his Ministers.”
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