ACELG has released a major research report entitled Consolidation in Local Government: A Fresh Look. It explores the options available for local government to increase its capacity and provide improved services. The research covers both Australia and New Zealand.
In the past local government reform has focused strongly on council amalgamations and cost savings. The ACELG research sought a more balanced approach, taking into account the importance of good governance and effective local democracy and representation. It also looks at the aftermath of previous efforts at reform through a series of in-depth case studies and interviews with senior figures in local government.
The report, along with other related material, can be downloaded from ACELG's website by clicking on the link below.