Home | Office of Local Government

About us

The Office of Local Government is the NSW Government agency responsible for strengthening the sustainability, performance, integrity, transparency and accountability of the local government sector.

Our strategic direction

NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure / Shannon Richmond

For councils

Helping councils deliver for their communities. Explore topics for practical tools, frameworks and advice to support effective council operations.

For public

Information to help the community engage with local Government, connect with your council, understand how they operate, and know your rights and responsibilities.

Pets

The Office of Local Government supports councils and communities in promoting responsible pet ownership, safeguarding animal welfare, and ensuring compliance with relevant legislation. Our work helps maintain safe, healthy environments for both people and animals across New South Wales.

More about pet ownership

Dog with frisbee at Surry Hills off-leash dog park. Credit: Jeffrey Cheah.

Building strong local workforces

The NSW Office of Local Government is helping councils across the state hire and support young people to build strong local workforces and help young people kickstart their career.

About apprentices and trainees

Programs and initiatives

The Office of Local Government delivers targeted programs and strategic initiatives that strengthen council performance, support community development, and enhance local governance across New South Wales.

View all programs and initiatives

Landcare Nursery Apprentice watering plants. Credit: Joshua Tredinnick

Latest news

12 Jun 2026

Investing in regional jobs and RFS fleet management

The Minns Labor Government is backing regional communities with a $470 million investment in the 2026-27 NSW Budget to modernise management of the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) fleet.

12 Jun 2026

New draft Code of Conduct released for consultation

The NSW Government has released a draft new Model Code of Conduct for councillors for public
consultation.

27 May 2026

Liberals and Greens unwind critical transparency measures in local government

Last night the Upper House reactivated the ability for NSW councils to hold secretive private briefing sessions, undoing measures the Minns Labor Government introduced to increase transparency and public confidence in local government.

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