Last week, Mayor Cr Dr Simone Zmood, Deputy Mayor Cr Li Zhang and Cr Kimberley Young represented Glen Eira in Canberra at the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) National General Assembly (NGA). 

The Assembly brings together councils from across Australia to share ideas, collaborate and advocate for the issues that matter most to our communities. 

This year, we successfully put forward three motions — all unanimously supported — calling for stronger national action to:

• respond to the climate emergency and protect communities
• prevent and reduce homelessness through a coordinated national approach
• combat racism and strengthen social cohesion across Australia 

These priorities reflect what we’re hearing locally and the role we play in supporting a connected, safe and resilient community. 

While in Canberra, Mayor Cr Dr Simone Zmood joined mayors from Port Phillip, Maribyrnong and Waverley to meet with Special Envoy for International Human Rights the Hon. Mark Dreyfus MP. Together, they discussed how different levels of government can work more closely to strengthen social cohesion, including through investment in community-led programs and a shared national approach. 

We also joined councils from across the country in calling for fairer funding for local government to help deliver essential services and infrastructure for our communities. 

As the level of government closest to the community, we see first-hand what helps people feel connected, included and supported. Working with other levels of government is key to building on this work and delivering stronger outcomes for our community. 

We thank ALGA for arranging this important annual forum and look forward to continuing to work together to deliver for our community. 

For more information about the community priorities we’re advocating for, visit www.gleneira.vic.gov.au/get-involved/advocacy