There is a real strength in a regional cities partnership, mayor Peta Pinson says.
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An alliance of regional cities, called Regional Cities NSW, is dedicated to achieving change through policy development and active implementation of the policies.
Port Macquarie-Hastings Council is an alliance member.
Mayor Peta Pinson and council's general manager Craig Swift-McNair attended a Regional Cities NSW meeting at Sydney's Parliament House on May 16.
It was the alliance's third meeting.
The meeting discussed state government funding and what sort of assistance was required from the state government to help with issues such as population growth.
Deputy Premier John Barilaro shared his vision for this term of government in regards to the relationship with local government.
The alliance also met with Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole.
Cr Pinson believes the government is really now open to a true partnership with local government.
The mayor said she really felt there was value in the member councils working together in a measured way which would bring beneficial outcomes to each of the local government areas.
The alliance of regional cities will focus on issues from population strategy to regional investment and connectivity.
Cr Pinson said the alliance would push for policy reforms and changes to funding models.
Funding model changes, for example, could unlock grants for road projects which don't meet state government funding program thresholds.
A memorandum of understanding will be signed between Regional Cities NSW and the state government.
Port Macquarie-Hastings Council allocated $5000 for Regional Cities NSW membership from January 1, 2019 to June 30, 2019.
The council will review its membership within the first 24 months to ensure the group is meeting its objectives.
About 17 regional councils have joined the alliance including Coffs Harbour, Queanbeyan and Orange.