Unlike many global cities, Greater Sydney does not have a single overarching municipal government. Instead, the metropolitan area is divided into 33 local government areas (LGAs), each with its own elected council and mayor.
* **Local Government:** The most prominent of these is the **City of Sydney**, which covers the central business district and inner-city neighborhoods, governed by the Lord Mayor and councilors. * **State Government:** The New South Wales (NSW) Government holds responsibility for the majority of Sydney's critical public services and infrastructure, including public transport, major roads, policing, health (hospitals), and education (schools). * **Representation:** Residents elect representatives to their local council, members to the NSW Parliament (Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council), and members to the Federal Parliament of Australia (House of Representatives and Senate).