NSWIn ForceAct
Local Government Act 1993
8AGuiding principles for councils
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#### 8A Guiding principles for councils
8A Guiding principles for councils
> > (1) Exercise of functions generally The following general principles apply to the exercise of functions by councils—
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> > > (a) Councils should provide strong and effective representation, leadership, planning and decision-making.
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> > > (b) Councils should carry out functions in a way that provides the best possible value for residents and ratepayers.
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> > > (c) Councils should plan strategically, using the integrated planning and reporting framework, for the provision of effective and efficient services and regulation to meet the diverse needs of the local community.
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> > > (d) Councils should apply the integrated planning and reporting framework in carrying out their functions so as to achieve desired outcomes and continuous improvements.
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> > > (e) Councils should work co-operatively with other councils and the State government to achieve desired outcomes for the local community.
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> > > (f) Councils should manage lands and other assets so that current and future local community needs can be met in an affordable way.
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> > > (g) Councils should work with others to secure appropriate services for local community needs.
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> > > (h) Councils should act fairly, ethically and without bias in the interests of the local community.
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> > > (i) Councils should be responsible employers and provide a consultative and supportive working environment for staff.
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> > (2) Decision-making The following principles apply to decision-making by councils (subject to any other applicable law)—
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> > > (a) Councils should recognise diverse local community needs and interests.
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> > > (b) Councils should consider social justice principles.
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> > > (c) Councils should consider the long term and cumulative effects of actions on future generations.
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> > > (d) Councils should consider the principles of ecologically sustainable development.
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> > > (e) Council decision-making should be transparent and decision-makers are to be accountable for decisions and omissions.
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> > (3) Community participation Councils should actively engage with their local communities, through the use of the integrated planning and reporting framework and other measures.
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> **ss 8A–8C:** Ins 2016 No 38, Sch 1 \[2\].