The Victorian Local Governance Association (VLGA) is a peak body that represents councillors across Victoria. Maroondah has been a member of the VLGA since 2008 and as such is able to utilise the organisation for advocacy, as well as training and support.

This weekend the VLGA held its Essential Mayor’s Weekend, which provides a training program for current Mayors across Victoria. Sessions covered governance, meeting procedures and advocacy to help ensure a successful year as Mayor.

Both Richard Wynne, the Minister for Local Government and Jeanette Powell, the Shadow Minister for Local Government, addressed the attendees and provided their perspectives on local government. It was encouraging to hear both of them discuss the importance of local government and it is imperative that there are genuine partnerships between all levels of government so that we deliver positive outcomes for our communities.

The Essential Mayor’s Weekend was informative and provided an opportunity to meet the Mayors of other municipalities. Collaboration across councils will strengthen the advocacy voice of local government and deliver results for our communities.

As an example, Maroondah, Whitehorse and Frankston each have similar issues in regard to the need for the redevelopment of major transport hubs (Ringwood, Box Hill and Frankston Stations) and working together will assist in demonstrating the importance of these projects across the eastern region.