The Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) is concerned over the ramifications of federal moves to undo carbon pricing legislation.

ALGA has lodged a submission with the Federal Government in response to the release of the exposure draft of Bill to repeal the tax, put out by Prime Minister Tony Abbott in mid-October. The closing date for submissions was November 4.

“ALGA has been working through the exposure draft and discussing issues with state associations, the Commonwealth Government and relevant industry bodies,” the peak body said in a statement to members.

“ALGA's submission will be dealing with a number of issues that could potentially pose significant difficulties for councils in the transitional period.”

The group representing the regional councils that make up the most direct level of governance for most residents, has listed its major concerns as:

• Communicating with the community to assist them in understanding the real impacts of the repeal;

• determining an approach to managing unspent carbon price liability funds;

• clarifying the roles and responsibilities of councils going forward, particularly ongoing responsibility for National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting; and

• seeking to ensure that councils that invested in abatement technology, in good faith, are not disadvantaged.

“In regards to mitigation, ALGA supports a price on carbon, in particular a market based approach to drive reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. ALGA will work with the Australian Government on the design of an effective scheme that is practical and does not have unintended consequences for local communities,” the Association said.