Council & Business
14 July, 2022
Plan adopted to manage long-term local infrastructure costs
The Central Goldfields Shire Council has adopted its inaugural asset plan, designed to help manage the long-term costs of owning and operating local infrastructure. The organisation’s inaugural asset plan was adopted at last month’s ordinary...
The Central Goldfields Shire Council has adopted its inaugural asset plan, designed to help manage the long-term costs of owning and operating local infrastructure.
The organisation’s inaugural asset plan was adopted at last month’s ordinary council meeting, after it was moved unanimously by councillors.
According to the report tabled to council, the asset plan is a requirement of the Local Government Act 2020 and is supported by council’s community vision, council plan and financial plan.
The report states the plan covers at least the next 10 financial years and notes the long-term costs of owning and operating infrastructure assets continues to be a financial challenge to the council, requiring a “whole of life” approach to infrastructure management.
Speaking during the meeting, councillor Grace La Vella said the inaugural plan was an important step forward for the organisation.
“The Local Government Act requires the preparation of the asset plan for at least the next 10 financial years,” she said.
“The purpose of the plan is to formally set out the long-term approach council will follow to manage our assets that contribute towards achieving its strategic direction.
“This approach ensures acceptable levels of service are provided in the most cost effective and financially sustainable manner.
“It is essential to note that this asset plan is our inaugural asset plan and our aim is to have a sound level of progressive capability of asset management actions in place across the whole council.”
According to the report, the draft plan was put out for public consultation online however no feedback was received and has been prepared using data from council’s asset register and other documents.