Local Government Minister Don Page has announced that representatives of the NSW local government sector will meet in Dubbo next week to discuss positive ideas for the future of local government in this State.

Destination 2036 next Wednesday and Thursday will be two days of dialogue between the leaders of the 152 councils in NSW, overseen by Minister Page and with input from other council representatives – all focused on meeting the challenges for councils and the local government sector.

“Destination 2036 is a unique event that will bring together all the mayors and general managers of every NSW council to seek their input and positive ideas about local government over the next 25 years, with a special emphasis on the next four years,” Mr Page said.

“Destination 2036 is a fantastic opportunity – the first time ever that NSW has seen this sort of strategic, creative and participatory approach applied to the many issues that face local government as we move further into the 21st Century.

“This is historic: all leaders of local government in NSW talking together about the future, and planning for the kind of councils that NSW communities deserve.

“From my perspective, nothing is sacred – everything will be open for discussion and I expect everyone involved to approach the workshop from a similar perspective.

“The NSW Liberal/Nationals Government is committed to reforming the local government sector and addressing the issues that need our attention; issues that councils recognise as ongoing challenges.”

Mr Page said he expected all aspects of local government would be scrutinised.

“I anticipate that there will be clear outcomes at the end of the two days, with a constructive and achievable action plan for a sustainable local government sector in the future,” Mr Page said.

“Ultimately, the outcomes and action plan that emerge will belong to the participants and will be for the NSW Government to consider, so I am happy that all councils will be heard.”