A NEW era of “cooperation” between the state government and councils across Melbourne’s suburbs has been heralded with the formation of six metropolitan partnerships by the government.
The state government stated that the Metropolitan Partnerships were “a new and coordinated way for communities to advise government on what matters in their region”.
“Melbourne’s southern region spans bayside, growth areas and regional hubs of Frankston and Dandenong, and extends from its northern border at Cheltenham and Moorabbin to the southern tip of the Mornington Peninsula and the eastern limits of Pakenham and Officer.
“Over the next 35 years, Melbourne is projected to become Australia’s largest city, with its population expected to almost double. A key challenge will be ensuring our suburbs are equipped for the future.
“Working closely with their communities, the partnerships will identify opportunities for driving improved social, economic and environmental outcomes, and advise the government on actions that can make a real difference to the liveability and prosperity of their metropolitan region.”
The groups are “a new platform for cooperative engagement between governments, business and communities” says Suburban Development Minister Lily D’Ambrosio.
Southern Partnership – representing Kingston, Frankston, Mornington Peninsula, Casey, Greater Dandenong and Cardinia councils – appointed Dr Elizabeth Deveny as chair this month.
Dr Deveny is CEO of South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network.
South East Local Learning and Employment Network CEO Andrew Simmons has been appointed deputy chair.
Council CEOs will represent local government at a minimum of four meetings each year to work on a five-year plan to prioritise regional needs “so that all Melburnians have access to the jobs, services and local infrastructure they need”, Ms D’Ambrosio said.
“Working together can only mean more opportunities for local economies and the jobs that come with them.”
The six metropolitan partnerships come under the umbrella of the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning.
Mr McNamara confirmed that chairs, deputy chairs, council CEOs and members would not be paid for their contribution to the partnerships.
“Members are eligible to be reimbursed for reasonable travel and other expenses that they incur that are directly related to their service on their partnership.”
He said there were hundreds of applicants for chair and deputy chair positions after the roles were advertised late last year.
“The members offer a breadth of experience across a number of social, community and business sectors including health, education, social services, multicultural affairs, industry, small business and manufacturing.”
First published in the Chelsea Mordialloc Mentone News – 28 June 2017
