New Zealand makes controversial changes to the purpose of local government.
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Authors
Fisher, R. M.
Keywords
Local government
Local Government Act (2002) amendments
Local Government Act (2002) amendments
Description of form
Publisher
Rights
Rights holder
Issue Date
2013
Peer-reviewed status
Type
Article
Abstract
Since retaking power in 2008 after a decade of Labour-led government, the National Party has embarked on a series of local government regulatory reforms that seek simplification and cost savings. Recent amendments to the Local Government Act 2002 (NZ) have significantly changed the purpose of local government, by removing requirements to consider the social, economic, environmental and cultural wellbeings of communities. In addition, the role of local government is now restricted to “core services” and “quality infrastructure”. The amendments have attracted considerable negative commentary. Fears have been raised that the changes will complicate rather than simplify council roles, and reintroduce arguments of ultra vires that were extinguished by the general power of competence to make decisions permitted by the LGA. The amendments are discussed, as well as their most likely immediate impact upon practitioners.
Citation
Fisher, R. M. (2013). New Zealand makes controversial changes to the purpose of local government. Local Government Law Journal, 18(4), 69-76.