UPDATE: The Country Mayors Association of NSW (CMA) has just renewed its critical partnership with Local Government New South Wales (LGNSW). CMA Chairman, Mayor Rick Firman OAM, and LGNSW President, Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM, signed an updated Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today during the 2025 LGNSW Annual Conference in Penrith, New South Wales.
This renewed agreement reflects a strengthened commitment between the two organizations, emphasizing their significant roles in advocating for rural, remote, and regional communities across the state. Mayor Firman likened the MoU signing to a renewal of vows, stating, “Both organisations tweaked the MoU document a little. It sets out a framework for cooperation on issues impacting those Councils in rural, remote and regional communities.”
The urgency of this partnership cannot be overstated. As challenges like financial sustainability, skills shortages, and infrastructure maintenance loom over local councils, the CMA and LGNSW are working together to tackle these pressing concerns. Mayor Miller emphasized that the MoU ensures that the needs of all councils, regardless of their size, are prioritized in statewide advocacy efforts. “This MoU reflects our shared commitment to strengthening the collective voice of local government,” she remarked.
The agreement is more than just a document; it represents a collaborative effort to enhance community outcomes throughout New South Wales. With both organizations united by their dedication to local government, they aim to share resources and amplify their voices in addressing vital issues affecting their constituents.
“Barriers to financial sustainability and the impacts of inadequate Government funding are far more evident and critical for our smaller rural and remote members,” Mayor Firman noted. The CMA focuses on these additional challenges that rural councils face, ensuring they receive the attention they deserve.
As the CMA and LGNSW move forward, they will engage in policy development, advocacy campaigns, and information sharing, all designed to promote stronger outcomes for councils and communities statewide. This MoU is a pivotal step towards ensuring rural and regional concerns remain at the forefront of local governance.
The signing of this MoU today marks a significant moment for local councils, reaffirming their commitment to working together for the betterment of their communities. The CMA and LGNSW’s collaborative efforts are set to bring about meaningful changes in policy and advocacy, addressing the critical issues facing rural, remote, and regional areas in New South Wales.
As this story develops, stay tuned for updates on how this renewed partnership will impact local governance and community services across the state.
