Clear date and pathway needed on local government referendun

The Australian Greens are calling on the Gillard Government to announce details of the referendum on constitutional recognition of local government.

“The Prime Minister made an agreement with the Greens that she would support constitutional recognition of local government as part of our agreement in 2010, and here we are in 2013 and she has still not made a public announcement,” Australian Greens Leader Senator Christine Milne said today.

“It’s time for Labor to act now and give the community certainty about when the referendum will take place and whether it will coincide with the election.

“Local government is an important part of Australia’s system of government and it deserves to be recognised alongside state, territory and Commonwealth governments.

“The Prime Minister must act so that an active campaign to support recognition of local government can get underway.

“We all know that referenda are notoriously difficult to pass and active support from all logical parties and all levels of government is an important element of success.

“Two expert committees have now recommended constitutional recognition for local government and we need a referendum as soon as possible to remove the question mark over federal grants to local councils.

“We welcome the Coalition’s support and call on Tony Abbott to put his money where his mouth is and work with his Liberal colleagues in Victoria and Western Australia to win their support or at least neutralise their opposition to holding a referendum.

“With tri-partisan support and a well-run campaign, we can make this referendum a success – but only if we get a clear commitment and timeframe from the Gillard Government.”
Australian Greens Leader Christine Milne