Councillor Connect - 10 July 2025 - Councillor Clair Mudaliar

In recent weeks I attended the National General Assembly (NGA) in Canberra, hosted by the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA)...


Councillor Clair Mudaliar.

Authorised by Councillor Clair Mudaliar.

10 July 2025

In recent weeks I attended the National General Assembly (NGA) in Canberra, hosted by the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA). The event brought together more than 1,300 local government representatives from across the country, including councillors, mayors, and executive teams, to discuss issues affecting our communities and shape national advocacy efforts.

Bega Valley Shire Council had five motions accepted for debate by ALGA. These addressed critical areas including support for circular economy initiatives, permanent childcare wage subsidies, and improved intergovernmental data-sharing - practical issues that affect service delivery and community outcomes across regional Australia.

While each shire is unique in its geography, resources and population, it was clear from discussions that many of us are grappling with similar challenges: housing pressures, workforce shortages, infrastructure maintenance, and funding shortfalls. It was valuable to share perspectives and compare approaches with Councillors from all corners of the country.

The event gave us a meaningful platform to engage directly on policy that matters to the Bega Valley and regional communities more broadly. These national conversations help inform federal decision-makers, and it’s critical our Council continues to be present, active and constructive in them.

Another highlight in recent weeks was attending the 25-year celebration dinner for the Eden Community Access Centre (ECAC), a remarkable milestone for a truly invaluable organisation. ECAC continues to play a vital role not only in Eden, but across the wider region, supporting community groups and volunteers by auspicing key grants, managing transformative programs like the learner driver initiative, and offering vital connection services with agencies such as Centrelink. Its efforts help bridge gaps, build skills, and strengthen local resilience. The Centre’s widely read community newsletter also continues to be a trusted source of news and engagement for many. Congratulations to the incredible staff and volunteers who have shaped ECAC into the thriving hub it is today. Their dedication over 25 years is an extraordinary achievement, and it’s exciting to see the organisation growing from strength to strength.

I look forward to connecting with you and if there’s an issue in the shire that you’d like to discuss, please get in touch with me at CMudaliar@begavalley.nsw.gov.au

Contact Us