Nominations have now opened for the 2010 National Awards for Local Government.

These prestigious awards, now in their 25th year, reward local governments for the innovative and important work they do in supporting local communities.

The Rudd Labor Government recognises the critical role of local governments in making our communities more productive, liveable and sustainable.

The National Awards are an important plank of the Rudd Labor Government’s partnership with local government.

This year, the National Awards have been revamped to recognise local governments’ efforts in delivering local infrastructure, collaborating with neighbouring councils, improving their asset and financial management planning and building their capacity to serve communities.

I encourage all elected councils to submit entries that showcase best practice local projects and policies.

The national winners will be judged by an independent panel and announced at the third Australian Council of Local Government meeting at Parliament House in June.

Since their inception, thousands of projects have been recognised and have highlighted creative solutions to local and national challenges.

Award entries will close on 31 March 2010.

For further information on the National Awards for Local Government contact the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government on free call 1800 065 113, or visit the Department's website at www.infrastructure.gov.au/local/awards.