Local Authority Statistics: December 2009 quarter

Seasonally adjusted local authority statistics for the December 2009 quarter compared with the September 2009 quarter show that:

• Local authorities recorded an operating deficit of $20.2 million.

• Operating revenue increased 4.1 percent to $1,752.0 million, driven by rises in government grants and subsidies, and investment income.

• Operating expenditure increased 1.4 percent to $1,772.1 million, driven by rises in depreciation and employee costs.