Member for Goulburn Pru Goward said the news is great for residents of the Yass Valley. 

A new council was announced as being formed under the same initiative. The Hilltops region will merge the former Boorowa, Harden and Young councils.

Ms Goward said the new council will deliver improved services and better representation for local communities.

“The creation of this new council will enhance opportunities for growth and investment across the region and ensure that the communities of the Hilltops region are a true force into the future,” Ms Goward said.

“It was what the communities were hoping for and were made possible with the great efforts of Wendy Tuckerman, Mayor of Boorowa Council and Chair of the Canberra Region Joint Organisation

Ms Goward said that in addition to the ongoing financial benefits generated by streamlining administration and reducing red tape, the $15 million provided by the NSW Government from the Stronger Communities Fund could lead to significant investment in new infrastructure projects across the region.

“The communities of Hilltops Council will have direct input into what projects will be delivered under this fund and I will be working with my colleague, the Member for Cootamundra, to consult with our local communities to identify their needs, and make sure they are firmly communicated to the new council,” Ms Goward said.

“We are ensuring that residents will pay no more for their rates than they would have to under the old councils for the next four years.”