This research suggests the sensible use of debt by local councils can address infrastructure backlogs and positively support sustainable local communities and organisation performance.

The aim of the project has been to support the Australian local government sector contend with the increasingly complex financial arrangements and considerations required to viably operate a contemporary local council now and into the future. 

Key chapters include financial fundamentals; review of local government debt and financial performance; local government debt management theory; local government debt management practices. 

The research was overseen by a reference group that included senior representatives from all local government jurisdictions.