Local Government Reform

In October 2006 the Northern Territory Government announced the reform of local government.

Its intention was to improve and expand the delivery of services to towns and communities across the Territory by establishing eight new Shires.

The reform was historically the biggest ever change in local government, with a step by step approach adopted so that the transition could be achieved as smoothly as possible.

Hand in hand with the reform process would go efforts to improve business and employment opportunities in rural and remote communities.

Since the first steps were taken 18 months ago the reform process is now on track to deliver a fully operational system of Shire administrations by July 1, 2008.

These steps have included new Shire boundaries, the establishment of Shire offices in major centres, the appointment of Shire Chief Executive Officers, the ongoing recruitment of staff and the installation of unified business systems.

The next major step will be the election of Shire Councillors in October.

This website provides information on the background to the reform process and the procedures adopted in making the transition to new local government.

Local Government Reform Information: 1300 654 368

Draft Shire Business Plans

Draft Shire Business Plans are now available for review and comment.

Draft Regional Management Plans

Draft Regional Management Plans are now available for public comment.

Knowing Local Government Website

The Knowing Local Government web site will give new Local Government Councillors, based in rural and remote locations in the Northern Territory, a learning tool that provides material in plain English on a range of topics about working as a Councillor in the new NT Local Government Shires. Find out more.