URGENT UPDATE: The Country Mayors Association of NSW (CMA) and Local Government New South Wales (LGNSW) have just signed a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance support for rural and regional councils. This significant agreement was formalized during the 2025 LGNSW Annual Conference in Penrith on November 25, 2025, marking a critical step toward addressing pressing issues in these communities.
CMA Chairman Rick Firman OAM and LGNSW President Phyllis Miller OAM emphasized that this updated MoU symbolizes a strong partnership, akin to a renewal of vows in a marriage. Mayor Firman stated, “Both organisations tweaked the MoU document a little. It sets out a framework for cooperation on issues impacting those Councils in rural, remote and regional communities.”
This newly established framework will enable both organizations to collaborate on essential policy development, advocacy campaigns, and information sharing, aiming to deliver stronger outcomes for councils and communities across New South Wales.
Mayor Miller noted the agreement’s importance in keeping the challenges and opportunities faced by regional communities at the forefront of statewide advocacy efforts. “This MoU reflects our shared commitment to strengthening the collective voice of local government,” she said. “Every council – no matter how large or small – must have a seat at the table.”
The MoU addresses critical issues such as financial sustainability, skills shortages, water management, and infrastructure maintenance, which are particularly pressing for rural and regional areas. Mayor Firman highlighted that barriers to financial sustainability and inadequate government funding impact smaller rural councils more acutely.
“This MoU documents our relationship but it’s far more than words on paper,” Mayor Firman added. “We are distinct, and while our priorities might not always be perfectly aligned, we are united by our passion to serve our members and the importance of Local Government in NSW.”
This partnership stands poised to significantly enhance the advocacy efforts for rural councils, ensuring that their unique challenges are prioritized at the state level. As the CMA and LGNSW move forward, communities across New South Wales can expect more robust support and representation in tackling the pressing issues they face today.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as the CMA and LGNSW continue their commitment to rural advocacy and community support.
