Municipal Association of Victoria

We welcome Nick Staikos MP as Victoria's new Minister for Local Government. As a former councillor himself, Minister Staikos will bring firsthand experience to the Cabinet table, strengthening local government's voice at the highest level of state politics. Premier Allan's choice signals a deep understanding of our sector's needs. The appointment comes at a crucial time as councils tackle the combined pressures of rapidly evolving technologies, significant social changes, community health and wellbeing challenges, shifting economies and a variety of growing environmental pressures. His appointment coincides with our newly elected and returning councillors beginning their term, creating a fresh opportunity for collaboration. The MAV also acknowledges outgoing Minister Melissa Horne, and thanks her for her significant contributions to the sector. We wish her every success in her new portfolios. To read the full statement visit https://lnkd.in/gpmdSF_v

Congratulations to Victoria’s Mayors and Deputy Mayors on successfully completing their Mayors Mandatory Training. Over two days, this program went beyond compliance. It equipped our leaders with the confidence, purpose, and integrity to navigate the complexities of local government and make a real difference in their communities. The Mayors Institute celebrates the collective experience, vision, and dedication that Mayors bring to their roles, while providing opportunities to refine skills, share knowledge, and strengthen their leadership capacity for the benefit of local communities. This is just the beginning of a journey that will see our Mayors and Deputy deliver impactful leadership and shaping vibrant, thriving communities across Victoria.

Well done to all of the councils who took part in Respect Victoria’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence campaign this year. 🧡🧡🧡 It has been inspiring to see so many communities get involved. Enjoy this video featuring the events that happened across the state. To learn more about 16 Days of Activism visit: https://bit.ly/3XiwbNU #16Days #16DaysOfActivism

Last week, MAV hosted CALD Outreach workers from across Victoria to celebrate their achievements in 2024.   Featuring insightful presentations and meaningful discussions, the event showcased the tireless efforts being made to support Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) families in accessing kindergarten and other early years services.   A special shout out to Aneke Harris from City of Whittlesea, Vicky Petinarias from the City of Greater Dandenong, and Bishal Kunwar from Greater Shepparton City Council for their insightful presentations and to everyone who participated in the event.   We are excited to carry this momentum into the new year, continuing to strengthen partnerships and expand opportunities for CALD families in other parts of Victoria. Funded by the Victorian Department of Education, the initiative was recently extended for two and a half years, with four new councils coming on board from 1 January 2025. You can find out more about this exciting initiative here: https://lnkd.in/gHCgsHic

The MAV has been appointed to the Victorian Government's Senior Victorians Advisory Committee, recognising the essential role Victorian councils play in creating communities where everyone can age well. Announced by Minister for Ageing Ingrid Stitt, the committee is a platform for government to engage with and respond to the diverse lived experiences of Older Victorians. The committee membership represents the diversity of the Victorian community, with members including Aboriginal Victorians, people with disability, culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, LGBTIQA+ people and regional Victorians. The MAV joins four other sector representatives on the committee, including COTA Victoria, Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria and Switchboard. The committee's work will focus on the implementation of the Ageing Well Action Plan 2022-2026 and other related government priorities and programs. It is vital that older people's voices are not only heard but actively shape the policies that affect their lives. The MAV is committed to ensuring that local government perspectives are captured in this process, advocating for the resources and support needed for older Victorians thrive in their communities. Read more here: https://lnkd.in/gcWpdUQB

Men are starting to have the conversation about what they can do to end the national crisis of gender-based violence. We need to make sure this conversation keeps going, by talking to our friends, recognising the warning signs of violence, challenging abusive behaviours, and listening to women and survivors of all genders without judgement or defensiveness. Join the 16 Days of Activism and help build communities where women are safe and equal. It all starts with respect. To learn more about 16 Days of Activism visit: https://bit.ly/3XFv8ZW #16Days #16DaysOfActivism

Check out the update from our President Jennifer Anderson from the latest MAV Board meeting 👇 #localgovernment

The MAV Board has elected two new Deputy Presidents, Cr Nathan Hersey (GAICD) and Cr Stuart James.   Cr Hersey, from South Gippsland Shire Council, is the Director for Gippsland and has been appointed Deputy President (non metro). Cr James, from City Of Monash, is the Director for Metropolitan East and has been appointed Deputy President (metro).   Congratulations to our new Deputy Presidents, we wish them every success as they step into these important roles.   The two councillors join our new President Cr Jennifer Anderson in leadership roles on the MAV Board.   #localgovernment #MAVBoard

Sport has the power to create positive change. It can bring our communities together and give us a sense of belonging. ⚽🏐🏀🏏🎾🎽 Celebrating everyone’s participation in sport, regardless of gender, helps create a culture where everyone feels safe and equal. Wyndham City Council and Melton City Council are hosting free events for local sporting clubs as part of their 16 Days of Activism Campaigns. 🏆 Growing Gender Inclusive Clubs 🏆 Monday 2 December 7pm-9pm - Eagle Stadium, Werribee https://lnkd.in/g_XVnNcJ And 🎖️ Leading Gender Equitable Sports Clubs 🎖️ Wednesday 4 December 6.30pm-8.00pm - Burnside Children’s and Community Centre https://lnkd.in/gRfVJ8wW #16Days #16DaysOfActivism

The MAV’s continued call for a meaningful and constructive partnership – through a formal agreement between State and Local Government – has been strengthened by the findings of a State Parliamentary enquiry into Local Government funding and services. It is clear the Legislative Council Economy and Infrastructure Committee report has taken seriously the weight of evidence presented before it by the MAV and councils in recognising the value of the role of local government and the challenges councils face in continuing to deliver high quality services and infrastructure to their communities The Committees’ key recommendations: 🔶 Improving the partnership between local and state government through codesign in legislation and regulation and adherence to the principles of the Victorian State-Local Government Agreement 🔶 Increases to untied funding and reducing the administrative burden of applying for and acquitting grants 🔶 Victorian State Government update Commonwealth Government Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements to allow betterment to build the resilience of local council infrastructure The MAV thanks the Committee and will continue to advocate for councils to be a constructive and critical delivery partner to the State Government as we support inclusive, resilient communities and thriving neighbourhoods and towns across Victoria.