Since the introduction of the Local Government Act 1993 there is a whole new world in local government and planning law in New South Wales. At the same time, councils are facing new challenges. The community has higher expectations of them and Pearson takes account of this in her comprehensive review of the new legislation and of the relationship between councils and the other levels of government. Her book examines the issue of constitutional recognition; council structures; the responsibilities of councillors and employees; the constraints on council decision-making; review of council decisions; accountability to the community; council powers and functions; planning and land use control; and the fundamental principles governing the interpretation of the legislation which apply to local government.