Law review to clear the way

DANDENONG will host a forum to help to shape a council shake-up.
Local Government Minister Natalie Hutchins said the Local Government Act had been amended many times.
“The 1989 Act is outdated and no longer provides clarity on the role of councils,” she said.
She said the State Government review underway would clear things up and urged people to share their ideas on possible changes.
Ms Hutchins said ideas already submitted include simplifying electoral structures, increasing mayoral authority, and more community input into decision-making.
“This review provides us with the opportunity to refresh the role of local government in Victoria,” she said.
The Dandenong forum will take place from 10am to noon on Wednesday 2 March at Drum Theatre, corner Walker and Lonsdale streets, Dandenong.
Ms Hutchins called on Victorians to share ideas, provide feedback and take polls about ideas already submitted to the Act Review on www.yourcouncilyourcommunity.vic.gov.au.