Board members of the Country Mayors Association of NSW (CMA) have joined senior NSW Treasury officials to discuss the Federal Productivity Commission’s Review of the GST Distribution Reforms this week. CMA chair, Temora Shire mayor Rick described the online meeting as constructively positive.

The technical rich online meeting followed a recent sit-down between Cr Firman and CMA board member, Singleton Council mayor Sue Moore, with the NSW premier, Minns and NSW treasurer, Daniel Mookhey to discuss the Review.

“The CMA recognises the far-reaching effects of the distribution if the GST. There is no question that the quantum of funding that NSW receives, impacts on the funding available to deliver services and facilities into the remote, rural and regional communities

our members represent,”

said Cr Firman.

“The Treasury officials gave us a concise background of the current system and how the 2018 reforms to the GST distribution have impacted on NSW. The CMA believes that it is imperative that NSW, as Australia’s most populous state, receives its fair share of GST revenue.”

Both the CMA and NSW government are preparing submissions to the review.

“Rural, remote and regional councils have numerous financial sustainability challenges. It is reasonable to assume that a better deal on GST distribution could result in increased financial support for councils and in turn our communities to relieve those pressures,” Cr Firman said.

“Our CMA slogan is ‘what we want is nothing more than equity’ and while that relates to our rural, remote and regional members, it is perfectly apt for the NSW government’s and CMA’s efforts to get a fair GST deal for our state.”

In another online meeting open to all CMA members and their council staff, Little Wings CEO Clare Pearson gave a presentation about her charitable organisation, which flies sick country kids to city hospitals.

Last year alone, Little Wings conducted 2385 missions, assisted 5110 children, conducted 109 medical clinics and was supported by 26 volunteer pilots.

“Ms Pearson gave our members an overview of the Little Wings charitable service, how it operates, how families in country communities can access the service, and the ways our members can support its’ vital work,” Cr Firman said.

“We had Mayors and staff from throughout NSW in this online session and it was inspiring.

“Our Little Wings presentation along with the meeting with the NSW Treasury officials show the depth and breadth of the CMA board’s engagement on behalf of our members and demonstrates the growing role of our CMA.”