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Outback Communities Authority

3 December 2009

A new management authority to support and develop South Australia's outback communities will be established following the passage of legislation through Parliament.

The Outback Communities Authority will replace the Outback Areas Community Development Trust whose area covers 65 per cent of the State - and less than 1 per cent of the State's population not serviced by local councils.

The Authority will continue to take in remote areas from Oodnadatta and Innamincka in South Australia's north to Penong and Fowlers Bay in the west.

Minister for State/Local Government Relations Gail Gago says the Authority is likely to become operational mid next year after regulations supporting its creation are enacted.

"Outback communities have indicated the need for an authority to work more closely with them addressing infrastructure needs, service planning and community management," says Minister Gago.

"We've worked through the best options to replace the existing five-member Port Augusta-based Trust, delivering a seven-member body with the professional skills to manage the region.

"At least four of the seven representatives will be sourced from outback communities.

"This Authority will be responsive to community needs and aspirations.

'It will have the ability to raise revenue through levies to help maintain and develop local infrastructure and facilities.

"There's been an acknowledged need for an additional source of funding collected equitably across the outback.

"It will help outback regions with tourism infrastructure and to provide essential services such as public amenities, rubbish collection, water, power, waste disposal and airstrips."

Support from other State Government agencies and the Commonwealth Local Government (Financial Assistance) Grants will not be affected by the new structure.

Potential appointees to the Outback Communities Authority will have a chance to nominate following notice in a range of outback newspapers or from the Authority's website.

Further details can be found at the Outback Areas Community Development Trust's website www.oacdt.sa.gov.au or by phoning (08) 8204 8700 or freecall 1800 352 224.