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About the Review

It is 25 years since the introduction of the Local Government Act 1993. The past quarter of a century has seen significant social, economic and technological changes. The role of councils and community expectations have expanded in line with these changes.

The Act has been amended and updated a number of times in recent years in response to emerging issues. However the making of continuous, ‘catch-up’ amendments is not desirable, efficient or sustainable.

On 26 June 2018 the then-Minister for Local Government, Hon Peter Gutwein MP announced that the Government would undertake a major review of Tasmania’s local government legislation (the Review) during Budget Estimates Committee Hearings.

Timeframe and scope

The Review will involve three consultation phases, with the intention to introduce a draft Bill to Parliament in mid-2020. For more information please see the Timeframes and Scope of the Review page.

Objectives

The Review’s objectives are to provide a clear and contemporary legislative framework that is fit-for-purpose and can adapt to future changes that:

  • supports greater innovation, flexibility and productivity in the sector to improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the services that councils provide to the Tasmanian community;
  • minimises red tape and administrative burden on councils, business and the broader community; and
  • enhances accountability and transparency across the sector; and increases democratic and community engagement, participation and confidence in local government.

Terms of Reference

Terms of Reference for the Review were launched on 26 July 2018 at the Local Government Association of Tasmania’s (LGAT) General Meeting.

Following consultation, the final Terms of Reference were released on 22 November 2018.

Governance

Steering committee and review reference group

The Review is governed by a Steering Committee, whose role is to guide the strategic direction of the Review and provide advice and recommendations to the Minister for Local Government. The Steering Committee is supported by a Reference Group with broad stakeholder membership, including from the community.

For more information see the Steering Committee and Reference Group page.

Frequently asked questions

For further information about the Review and public consultation, see the Frequently Asked Questions.