The purposes of this Act are as follows: (a) to provide the legal framework for the system of local government for New South Wales; (b) to set out the responsibilities and powers of councils, councillors and other persons and bodies that constitute the system of local government; (c) to provide for governing bodies of councils that are democratically elected; (d) to facilitate engagement with the local community by councils, councillors and other persons and bodies that constitute the system of local government; (e) to provide for a system of local government that is accountable to the community and that is sustainable, flexible and effective. The object of the principles for councils is to provide guidance to enable councils to carry out their functions in a way that facilitates local communities that are strong, healthy and prosperous. The following general principles apply to the exercise of functions by councils: (a) Councils should provide strong and effective representation, leadership, planning and decision-making; (b) Councils should carry out functions in a way that provides the best possible value for residents and ratepayers; (c) Councils should plan strategically, using the integrated planning and reporting framework, for the provision of effective and efficient services and regulation to meet the diverse needs of the local community; (d) Councils should apply the integrated planning and reporting framework in carrying out their functions so as to achieve desired outcomes and continuous improvements; (e) Councils should work co-operatively with other councils and the State government to achieve desired outcomes for the local community; (f) Councils should manage lands and other assets so that current and future local community needs can be met in an affordable way; (g) Councils should work with others to secure appropriate services for local community needs; (h) Councils should act fairly, ethically and without bias in the interests of the local community; (i) Councils should be responsible employers and provide a consultative and supportive working environment for staff.
Australie · 1993-06-08