Councils operate within the legislative framework laid down by the State government. Their powers and responsibilities derive mainly from the Local Government Act 1993. The Local Government system in NSW has existed for over 150 years. Sydney Council was established in 1842, even before responsible state government was granted.
In 1859 more councils were established, including Albury, Goulburn, Randwick and Shellharbour.
Rural councils, known as shires, were established from 1906 more ..
