Joint organisation model gets tick of approval

An independent review into NSW’s network of 13 joint organisations has shown they continue to deliver strong and effective outcomes for regional communities in partnership with the NSW Government.

Each Joint organisation comprises member councils, State agencies and other key stakeholders with a focus to improve infrastructure and service delivery to regional communities.

Minister for Local Government Shelley Hancock today released the

report, completed by leading public policy firm ARTD Consultants, which found the joint organisation framework was a “credible, legitimate and transparent model of regional governance”.

“The NSW Government delivered an Australian-first local government network when we established joint organisations across regional NSW in 2018, investing $8.2 million in their establishment, sustainability and capacity,” Mrs Hancock said.

“Eighty seven regional councils are now active members of the 13 joint organisations which are critical to improving delivery of services and infrastructure to communities in regional NSW.

“After more than three years in operation, I am pleased an independent review of the joint organisation framework has found that most of the regional bodies are already delivering their core functions effectively, or highly effectively.”

Mrs Hancock said she has accepted the report’s 11 recommendations to further strengthen Joint Organisations, and instructed OLG to implement these in 2022.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said joint organisations are a key mechanism through which the Government delivers funding and programs to the regions.

“Introducing joint organisations has really transformed the way the NSW Government and local councils collaborate, plan, set priorities and deliver important projects on a regional scale,” Mr Toole said.

“They are working hard to deliver a range of priority projects including increasing tourism and business opportunities, developing workforce skills in regional centres, improving energy efficiency, achieving best practice in procurement, and preserving biodiversity.

“I thank all member councils for their efforts in ensuring the joint organisation model is a success, and encourage them to continue to support the key regional bodies which are resulting in better planning, economic development and service delivery in the bush.”

A copy of the report and more information about joint organisations can be found on the Office of Local Government website herelaunch.