Join us for a special episode of VLGA Connect this week as we unpack the results of the latest VLGA Victorian Councillor Census.

Chris Eddy is joined by VLGA President Dr Josh Fergeus; John Armitage from Qdos Research, and Dawn Bray from the VLGA for a panel discussion about what the results are telling us, and how this latest data will be used by the VLGA and government to inform policy and related sector discussions in order to enhance the outcomes councillors deliver for the communities they represent, as well as improve the working landscape for elected representatives.

You can download the full Census report here: https://www.vlga.org.au/sites/default/files/Census%20Report%202026_final.pdf

Sponsored by Hunt & Hunt Lawyers

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To learn more about the events, programs, and training offered by the Victorian Local Governance Association (VLGA), please click here.

If you'd like to contact us about the podcast, please send us an email to vlga@vlga.org.au or call us on 03 9349 7999

Discussing a report tabled to Parliament this week, Victorian Ombudsman Marlo Baragwanath returns to chat to Chris Eddy and unpack the outsourcing by councils of "under-excess" small claims.

Hunt & Hunt Lawyers Managing Principal Tony Raunic gives his thoughts on some high profile mayoral issues making news this week, as well as the progress of new bills that will bring some significant changes to the Local Government Act.

As the cost of living takes greater effect, we find out more about the City of Greater Dandenong’s sector-leading approach to flexible rates payments, particularly for those experiencing hardship.

You can view the Victorian Ombudsman report here: https://www.ombudsman.vic.gov.au/our-impact/investigation-reports/outsourcing-small-claims-handling

Sponsored by Hunt & Hunt Lawyers

Support the show

To learn more about the events, programs, and training offered by the Victorian Local Governance Association (VLGA), please click here.

If you'd like to contact us about the podcast, please send us an email to vlga@vlga.org.au or call us on 03 9349 7999

This week on VLGA Connect, Murrundindi Shire Council Mayor Damien Gallagher gives an update on the recovery efforts following the January bushfires which affected a large area of the region.

Northern Grampians Shire Council CEO Brent McAlister speaks about a new initiative which is bringing together Wimmera and Mallee councils to ensure the region is ready for significant investment in regional projects across energy, transmission and mining.

And Tony Raunic from Hunt & Hunt Lawyers returns to break down the latest arbiters reports tabled at two councils.

Sponsored by Hunt & Hunt Lawyers.

Support the show

To learn more about the events, programs, and training offered by the Victorian Local Governance Association (VLGA), please click here.

If you'd like to contact us about the podcast, please send us an email to vlga@vlga.org.au or call us on 03 9349 7999