Local Government

Ambihaipahar acknowledged the challenges facing local government and confirmed the government's commitment to re-establishing the inquiry. Ambihaipahar highlighted the Labor government's investments, including $3.3 billion in financial assistance grants and doubled funding for the Roads to Recovery Program. Ambihaipahar contrasted this with the Coalition's previous record of freezing grant indexation and abolishing the Australian Council of Local Government. Ambihaipahar argued that the interim report demonstrated the need for an evolved funding model to support councils.

Pike supported the motion, citing significant rate increases in his electorate as evidence of the strain on local governments. Pike argued that cost-shifting from the federal government is forcing ratepayers to bear the burden of reduced financial support. Pike noted that the previous inquiry failed to provide recommendations and called for a renewed investigation to address the root causes of council financial distress. Pike also mentioned specific funding cuts to local infrastructure and native title respondent schemes in his area.

Chesters criticised the motion for lacking boldness and failing to demand specific actions for regional councils. Chesters argued that the current Financial Assistance Grants formula is flawed and benefits inner-city councils more than regional shires with smaller rate bases. Chesters attributed the current funding crisis to the Coalition's decision to freeze grant indexation in 2014. Chesters called for a reprioritisation of grants to focus on regional areas and highlighted the significant funding her electorate received under the Labor government.

Hamilton argued that the federation model requires review to ensure adequate funding for all levels of government. Hamilton cited a sharp decline in financial assistance grants to his local council, from $19 million to $5.5 million, alongside rising operational costs. Hamilton highlighted the unsustainable burden placed on regional councils, such as the requirement to fund a $275 million dam wall upgrade. Hamilton called for a broader conversation on how the three tiers of government share responsibilities and revenue.

Neumann criticised the Coalition's historical record on local government funding, citing audits of past programs and the freezing of grant indexation. Neumann affirmed the government's plan to resume the inquiry and highlighted current investments in roads and infrastructure. Neumann argued that the Labor government has delivered substantial funding to local councils, contrasting this with the Coalition's alleged neglect. Neumann emphasised that actions, rather than rhetoric, demonstrate support for local government sustainability.

Haines welcomed the inquiry and highlighted the diverse and complex roles councils now perform, including health care and emergency management. Haines noted that council budgets have not kept pace with their expanding responsibilities, leading to financial strain. Haines supported the interim report's recommendations, including a review of the Financial Assistance Grants program and addressing skills shortages. Haines called for collaborative action to implement the report's findings for the benefit of rural and regional communities.