A referendum will take place on the same day as the Federal election to amend the Constitution, officially recognising local governments in Australia.

Councils and Shires will be included in legislation covering Federal funding if the referendum is passed.

Minister for Regional Development and Local Government Mr Anthony Albanese is encouraging all Australians to support their local councils and vote ‘yes’ when the question is raised on September 14. He says the Federal government has had a strong relationship with councils and shires for decades, and the proposed Constitutional amendment would reflect a commitment to furthering that relationship.

Importantly, all councils and shires are created by and accountable to their relevant State governments, the result of the referendum would not effect that relationship.