Geelong’s exit from regional alliance sealed

THE City of Greater Geelong will sever ties with G21 from April next year, leaving the regional alliance’s future in serious doubt.

In a message to members this afternoon, G21 chair Melissa Stephens confirmed that COGG’s involvement in the organisation would end as the council made wide-ranging cost cuts in its proposed 2023/24 budget handed down last night.

The Geelong Times reported last month that the city was weighing up its role with G21 as it aimed to slash spending to manage its deteriorating finances.

G21 formed in 2002 as a planning and advocacy body for local government, business and community organisations across Geelong, Queenscliffe, Surf Coast, Golden Plains and Colac Otway council areas.

Geelong accounts for about three-quarters of the organisation’s funding contributions from member councils – which is determined by population share – and a third of its total budget.

G21 indicated It would consider the implications of the city’s decision before deciding on its future.

“The City of Greater Geelong has advised the G21 Region Alliance that it will conclude its membership with the alliance in late April 2024. We understand that the City of Greater Geelong’s decision relates to the increasing financial pressures the Council is experiencing,” Stephens stated.

“The G21 Board will meet to discuss the implications of this decision and will update members with further information in the near future.

“G21 is proud of its achievements over 21 years as it worked to shape a prosperous Geelong region and this will remain its focus.

“We highly value your support which has made G21 one of the most well recognised regional civic bodies in Australia over the last 21 years. Your contribution allows us to develop public policy to benefit communities across our region.”