Charles Sturt University (CSU) and local government have entered an new era of collaboration to deliver better education, employment and business opportunities, in conjunction with economic and social growth to inland communities across NSW.

 

CSU, in conjunction with Bathurst Regional Council and Blayney Shire Council, hosted the 2008 Local Government Manager’s forum at CSU’s Bathurst headquarters, which attracted representatives from 14 local government areas.

 

The forum identified and explored a range of common issues, such as training and development, consultancy and research and addressing local labour force and planning needs.

 

Mark Burdack, Director of Corporate Affairs and University Secretary, said, “The discussions provided an excellent opportunity for the University to better understand the needs of local government and their communities. It also provided local government with the opportunity to develop their understanding of the processes and services of the University.”

 

“The forum generated a considerable amount of enthusiasm and commitment from across the University and local government to extend our relationship and to work more closely to realise the opportunities available to inland communities,” said Mr Burdack.

 

David Sherley, General Manager of Bathurst Regional Council, said, “The forum also identified areas where University research could  provide data to councils to improve planning processes and assist local government to develop innovative social and community strategies”.

 

The University and councils have agreed to explore ways in which they could merge their resources and efforts, such as the joint initiative of Bathurst Regional Council and Charles Sturt University to co-fund inland NSW’s first all-weather running track, to provide an ongoing benefit to communities and the University.

 

A working group, which will include representatives from local government, CSU, TAFE and the Western Research Institute, will meet in one month to start to develop an action plan.