"Outer suburban residents are calling for action in the face of soaring cost of living and a commuting nightmare. Families are moving to the suburban fringe in record numbers, but many are finding their basic needs are being ignored,” was the headline of a 7NEWS story aired last night.
In the interview, Wyndham Mayor, Cr Peter Maynard spoke about the impact of the growth areas population boom, with 120 babies born every week just in Wyndham LGA. He called for a greater federal government focus on the one in five Australians who live in a growth area. The NGAA’s call for a national Minister for Growth Areas was highlighted.
Economist Saul Eslake, following his keynote address at the NGAA Congress, said that he expects to see more mortgage stress amongst new growth area residents than in other areas of Australia.
The story also covered infrastructure and service deficits in other Melbourne growth areas such as Whittlesea Council and Melton Council. A Mernda resident spoke about his nightmare 80km round-trip commute to work which costs him up to $200 a week. The story touched on the lack of public transport options and local employment opportunities in outer urban growth areas, with three in four residents having to commute to work by car.
NGAA is recruiting a National Communications Coordinator.
Please read on if you are energised by political engagement and advocacy, experienced in developing and implementing communication and social media strategies and can find compelling ways to communicate the opportunities and challenges of Australia’s growth areas. Experience living or working in growth areas very welcome. Remote or office working options available.
Read moreOfficers from NGAA Member councils are invited to express their interest in joining our Policy Advisory Committees.
Read moreThanks to all Mayors, Councillors, Adminstrators and officers who joined us for lunch during the ALGA NGA.,
Click through for photos and the Chair's speech.
Read moreNGAA is pleased to share that our CEO Bronwen Clark has been appointed to the Urban Policy Forum by The Hon. Catherine King MP, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government. Melbourne Lord Mayor Sally Capp will be the only other local government representative.
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