Tara Murray
New research shows that many key infrastructure elements require increased maintenance or in some cases replacement.
Australian Local Government Association president Linda Scott said this finding in ALGA’s 2021 ‘National State of the Assets Report’ highlighted the urgent need for better funding partnerships across all levels of government.
It found that about one in 10 Australian libraries, recreation and sporting facilities, community centres, stormwater systems, swimming pools, local airports, bridges and roads are in poor condition with significant defects, requiring increased maintenance or in some cases replacement.
“Councils own and manage local infrastructure worth approximately $342 billion, while collecting just 3.5 per cent of Australian taxation,” Cr Scott said.
“Maintaining these facilities is very costly but incredibly important for the health and wellbeing – as well as the productivity – of our communities.”
“We appreciate every dollar we receive in Commonwealth funding – as well as the support we receive from our state and territory governments – but often it’s tied to delivering new infrastructure projects.”
“This new research is a timely reminder of the importance of maintaining what we already have, as well as looking ahead to what our communities will need in the future.”
Cr Scott said in the lead up to next year’s federal election they’re for extra funding.
“This would support us to maintain the local facilities Australians use every day and preserve them for our kids and future generations to use and enjoy.”
“It would also create more than 16,200 jobs and boost our nation’s gross domestic product by $2.37 billion per year.”
“We’re also calling for a $300 million increase to the Commonwealth’s Roads to Recovery Program so we can continue to replace and renew local roads that are no longer safe or fit for purpose.”
