Bonus episode: Major reforms proposed for local government in New Zealand

Local Government News Roundup

English - June 23, 2023 01:00 - 11 minutes - 8.14 MB
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A bonus episode of the Roundup looking at the final report from New Zealand's Future of Local Government Panel, which makes sweeping recommendations for fundamental change in the sector.

Joining Chris Eddy today is Dr Andy Asquith from the Curtin Institute of Public Policy to discuss the report's contents, and the likelihood that any meaningful change will eventuate.

Access the report here: https://www.futureforlocalgovernment.govt.nz/

Shownotes/Summary:

The Future of Local Government Review Panel in New Zealand has released its final report, which includes recommendations for reforming the local government sector.The report suggests the creation of a new Crown Department to manage the relationship between central and local government, highlighting the importance of local government in society.However, there are doubts about whether meaningful change will occur, as the report was commissioned by a Labor government and the opposition National Party is not known for being supportive of local government.The report also addresses issues such as underfunding of local government and the need for improved governance and candidate competence.Recommendations to increase voter turnout include changing the length of terms, lowering the voting age, and increasing councillors' pay.The report also suggests the use of compulsory single transferable voting in local elections to improve democratic representation.The report's recommendations may not be implemented due to lack of cross-party support, funding challenges, and resistance from local government itself.

Memorable quote: "This is a once-in-a-generation chance to shift things, and to shift things for the better."

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Links for stories referenced in the podcast can be found in the transcript, or by visiting the Roundup website.