Revising our expectations of local government

Significant reform of local government in Victoria has led the way nationally and arguably gone beyond the comparative New Zealand and English experiences. Since the reforms were introduced and elected councillors were returned during 1996 and 1997, there has been an adjustment of roles and responsibilities with varying degrees of acceptance. Reviewing the Victorian experience leads to exploration of the potential within local government to define a strong strategic development role based on larger units of economic influence. This will require continuing cultural change within organisations and a wider focus of responsibility for elected members to rise above the 'pot hole' mentality. Regional Australia will be especially poorly served if this challenge is not taken up. This article reviews the progress of compulsory competitive tendering in Victoria by using a case study of the Experience in Ballarat.