Interview-Linda Scott

In this episode of Infrastructure Matters by IPWEA, David Jenkins, CEO of IPWEA, sits down with Councillor Linda Scott, President of the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA). They delve into the importance of the National State of the Assets report, the successes in advocating for increased federal assistance grants, and the critical need for consistent funding to address skill shortages in local government. Linda Scott also highlights the innovative approaches local governments are taking to address climate change and the essential role they play as first responders in natural disasters. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the future of local government infrastructure and the strategies needed to support resilient and sustainable communities.

Topics Covered in This Episode:

• Discussion with Councillor Linda Scott, President of the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA), about her role and achievements in local government.
• Importance of the National State of the Assets report for understanding and advocating for local government infrastructure funding.
• Successes from the 2021 National State of the Assets report, including increased federal assistance grants and funding for local infrastructure.
• The significance of untied funds for local governments to maintain and manage infrastructure effectively.
• Challenges and solutions related to skill shortages in local government, particularly in engineering and planning.
• Innovative models for sharing skilled professionals and the need for consistent federal funding for training and development.
• Local government’s role in addressing climate change through emission reduction and adapting infrastructure for natural disasters.
• New funding opportunities for local governments to retrofit and build infrastructure to mitigate against natural disasters.
• ALGA’s advocacy efforts to secure federal support for disaster recovery and resilience.
• The critical role of local governments as first responders in emergency situations and the importance of collaboration with federal and state agencies.

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In this episode of Infrastructure Matters by IPWEA, David Jenkins, CEO of IPWEA, engages in a heartfelt and insightful conversation with Councillor Linda Scott, President of the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA). Linda shares her personal journey into politics, inspired by her sister's experience with Down syndrome and a strong desire to address inequality. They discuss the challenges and realities of entering politics, the importance of local government in addressing community needs, and the critical role of federal assistance grants. Linda highlights the innovative approaches local governments are taking to combat climate change and manage natural disasters, emphasizing the need for consistent funding and skilled professionals. This episode provides a deep dive into the motivations, challenges, and achievements of a dedicated local government leader.

Topics Covered In This Episode:

• Linda Scott's journey into politics inspired by personal experiences and a desire to address inequality.
• The challenges and realities of entering politics and balancing personal life with public service.
• The importance of the National State of the Assets report for local government advocacy and securing federal funding.
• Successes from the 2021 report, including increased federal assistance grants and funding for local infrastructure.
• The significance of federal assistance grants for maintaining and developing local government infrastructure.
• Addressing the skills shortage in local government, particularly in engineering and planning, and advocating for training and capacity-building initiatives.
• The role of local governments in climate change mitigation and adaptation, including innovative projects and securing funding for sustainability efforts.
• The impact of natural disasters on communities and the importance of local government preparedness and response.
• Linda Scott's experiences and challenges as a local government leader, including interactions with community members and other politicians.
• Reflections on the achievements and future goals of ALGA in supporting local governments and advocating for their needs at the federal level.

Back to Infrastructure Matters Podcasts