Canberra in winter is not a journey anyone makes for the weather. But in the past fortnight I packed my bags and joined our Deputy Mayor Sonia Buckley, Cr Jodie Ashworth and CEO Fiona Weigall on a trip to the ALGA National General Assembly in our nation’s capital, where I joined other rural and regional leaders to make sure East Gippsland’s voice was heard.

When we head to Canberra, it’s not for the handshakes or photo ops – it’s about access. Access to federal decision-makers who can unlock real support for the issues that matter to our communities. Whether it's roads, disaster recovery, or regional growth, we need to be at the table to get things done.

This year’s Assembly was a good one for us. I had the chance to speak directly with senior federal staff and MPs, including the Leader of the Nationals in the Senate, Bridget McKenzie, who also serves as Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Transport & Regional Development; Minister of Finance and Women, Senator Katy Gallagher; and Dr Anne Webster, Shadow Minister for Regional Development.  

We discussed everything from emergency management and resilience to biosecurity and border services. I also got a behind-the-scenes look at the National Emergency Management Agency’s Situation Room – a useful insight as we continue to lead recovery and prepare for future challenges.

One standout moment was hearing the Governor-General, Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, speak fondly of Bairnsdale, after her recent visit. It was a proud reminder that our region leaves an impression – and that our people, institutions and efforts are recognised at the highest level.

I also took every chance to connect with other councillors. These conversations can be just as valuable – sharing stories, learning from others, and picking up ideas we can adapt back home.

A key part of the Assembly is putting forward motions to the Australian Government – direct advocacy on the things we know, if implemented, will improve outcomes for our region. I’m pleased to share that all four of our motions were passed, with strong support from the Assembly. These included calls to:

• Expand access to the Roads of Strategic Importance Program to deliver vital road safety and industry transport links, including food production for the south-east of Australia.
• Increase funding through the Disaster Ready Fund – or similar programs – to upgrade infrastructure in response to changing climate and weather patterns and support the National Disaster Risk Reduction Framework.
• Implement all recommendations in the Australian Government's Regional Telecommunications Independent Review Committee report to improve connectivity for regional, rural and remote communities.
• Restore the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program to ensure councils can continue to provide infrastructure that supports both resilience and economic growth.

Only hours before heading to Canberra I was joined by other Councillors in adopting a Council Plan and Budget that reflects our values – practical, steady and community-focused – and recognises that many in our community are doing it tough.

We held this year’s rate increase to 2 per cent – a full percentage point below the state cap. It’s a deliberate decision to keep costs down while still investing in the roads, parks, community buildings and services we all rely on.

We’re making every dollar count, prioritising maintenance over new builds, and focusing on the essentials. It’s about looking after what we’ve got and staying financially sustainable – not just for this year, but for the long haul.

Our role as a Council is to listen, plan and advocate – and right now we are doing all three with purpose.

– Mayor Cr John White

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