Understanding Local Government  

What Is Local Government? 

Australia has three levels of government:

• Federal Government

• State Government

• Local Government

Local government refers to councils that manage and support local communities and neighbourhoods.

Councils focus on issues affecting local areas and community life.

They work alongside state and federal governments, but each level has different responsibilities.

Local government is often the level of government closest to the community.

What Do Councils Do?  

Councils are responsible for a wide range of services and local infrastructure.

This can include:

• Parks and playgrounds

• Footpaths and local roads

• Libraries

• Sporting facilities

• Waste and recycling

• Trees and streetscapes

• Community centres

• Local events and programs

• Development assessment

• Local strategic planning

Councils also help shape:

• Public space

• Community wellbeing

• Local identity

• Walkability

• Neighbourhood character

• Community participation

Many parts of everyday community life are influenced by local government decisions.

Planning and Development 

One of the most visible roles of councils is local planning and development assessment.

Councils may help manage:

• Development applications

• Local planning controls

• Strategic planning

• Public exhibitions and consultation

• Local housing and growth planning

• Public domain improvements

Some planning decisions are controlled by state government, while others are managed locally.

Planning systems can be complex because different levels of government share different responsibilities.

Local Government and Community Wellbeing 

Councils help support healthier and more connected communities through:

• Public space

• Recreation facilities

• Libraries and cultural programs

• Community engagement

• Local infrastructure

• Environmental management

• Community services

Local government can influence:

• Social connection

• Walkability

• Access to community facilities

• Participation in local life

• Community identity and belonging

Strong local communities depend on both physical and social infrastructure.

Why Local Government Matters to Young People 

Young people interact with council-managed spaces and services regularly.

This includes:

• Parks

• Sporting facilities

• Libraries

• Public space

• Youth programs

• Community events

• Streets and transport connections

Local government decisions can affect:

• Public space quality

• Recreation opportunities

• Safety and accessibility

• Community participation

• Transport and mobility

• Future neighbourhood growth

Understanding local government helps young people:

• Participate more confidently

• Understand civic systems

• Engage in local conversations

• Build leadership and advocacy skills

Young people are important participants in community life.

Community Participation and Local Government  

Communities can often participate in local decision-making through:

• Community consultation

• Public submissions

• Workshops and engagement sessions

• Advisory groups

• Local events and forums

Participation helps councils better understand:

• Community needs

• Local priorities

• Lived experience

• Opportunities for improvement

Strong participation can help create:

• Better decision-making

• Greater trust

• More connected communities

• More inclusive local planning

Why This Matters for Greater Western Sydney

Greater Western Sydney is experiencing rapid growth and significant long-term change.

Councils across the region are managing challenges relating to:

• Housing growth

• Infrastructure pressure

• Transport and connectivity

• Public space

• Community wellbeing

• Population growth

Local government plays an important role in helping communities navigate growth and change over time.

Strong local participation helps create stronger and more resilient communities.

Local Government and the Fair Share Framework 

The Fair Share Framework recognises that fair and connected communities require:

• Fair Voice

• Fair Access

• Fair Opportunity

Local government helps shape many of these everyday community experiences through:

• Planning

• Public space

• Infrastructure

• Participation

• Community programs and services

Communities function best when residents feel informed, included and able to participate in local civic life.

Related Framework Pillars

Further Learning & Career Pathways 

Local Government NSW

Information and resources relating to local government and councils across New South Wales.

Office of Local Government NSW

Resources explaining how local government functions in NSW.

IAP2 Australasia

Frameworks and resources supporting community participation and engagement.

Related Resources  

• What Is Urban Planning?

• What Is Civic Participation?

• Understanding Community Consultation

• How Decisions Get Made in Your Community

• What Is Advocacy?

• Planning Literacy for Communities