The Minister for Local Government Don Page has urged Councils to work together and share resources to improve efficiency in the delivery of services to their communities.

Speaking at the Local Government Managers’ Association forum on Monday, Mr Page praised Councils which have developed joint arrangements on projects like inter-regional water management, regional mobile library services, staff training programs, and internal auditing programs.

"It is clear that many NSW Councils endorse resource sharing as a sensible way to be more efficient and effective, while also saving ratepayers’ money," Mr Page said.

"By strategically planning together, Councils are identifying opportunities to be innovative when providing services to their communities.

"Councils have told me that by co-operating, they can identify common issues across their region and can therefore develop and implement a regional approach to address them.

Mr Page said some Councils have reported that there are services that they are unable to provide satisfactorily from their own resources.

"Working together reduces the chance of duplication of services or programs, which frees up time for Council staff members to work on other projects, and saves ratepayers’ money which can be used to fund those other projects," Mr Page said.

"This is a process that could be replicated in all areas of NSW.

"As Minister, I urge all NSW Councils to consider ways that they can improve their delivery of services to ratepayers by entering into agreements with their neighbouring Councils."