Now in its 25th year, the awards reward local governments for the innovative and important work they do in supporting local communities.

The national awards are an important plank of the Labor

Government’s partnership with local government.

This year, the national awards have been revamped to recognise local governments’ efforts in delivering local infrastructure, collaborating with neighbouring councils, improving their asset and financial management planning and building their capacity to serve communities.

All elected councils are encouraged to submit entries that showcase best practice local projects and policies.

The national winners will be judged by an independent panel and announced at the third Australian Council of

Local Government meeting at Parliament House in June.

Since their inception, thousands of projects have been recognised and have highlighted creative solutions to local and national challenges.

Award entries will close on March 31.

For further information on the National Awards for Local Government contact the Department of

Infrastructure, Transport,Regional Development and Local Government on 1800 065 113, or go to the department’s website at www.infrastructure.gov.au/local/a wards