We have notice quite often that the Victorian Local Governance Association (VLGA) seems to be just a media department for the ALP State Government. What typically happens is that they get advanced notice that the State Government is doing something, then they pre write a glowing media release about how good the government is.. Take the accidentally released email today (below) – "Embargoed until 6am Tuesday 28 October 2008 Responding to the State Government’ s announcement to amend and clarify the application of proposed Section 78D of the Local Government (Councillor Conduct and Other Matters) Bill 2008, VLGA President Cr Beth Davidson said “ …sometimes you just have to stick your neck out to get results. “ The VLGA took the lead in expressing strong concerns at the democratic barriers contained in the Bill, calling for amendments and greater clarity. “ The Minister has listened to our concerns, and we now feel vindicated by the State Government’s reaction. “ Incumbent Councillors and new Candidates can now confidently stand at the forthcoming elections knowing that their prior participation in democratic debate will not be constrained by the Bill. “ The VLGA will seek further discussions with the State Government prior to the 2012 elections to argue that the effective date of future provisions should also be limited in the same way as today’s announcement, “ Cr Davidson added." From this we can conclude that the State Government is making an announcement in the morning, and the VLGA – as a media unit of the Government – have their press release ready. Pity they sent it out a day early!
