The panel aims to create a stronger and more effective system of local government.

Member for Myall Lakes Stephen Bromhead said that the reports were vital to the administration and operation of local government and he encouraged all residents to lodge submissions.

"Following representations from local government, the NSW government has agreed to give councils and the broader community more time to respond to these reports," he said.

"Local government is a very important part of running effective and efficient communities, especially in regional areas - and none more so than in the Manning and Great Lakes regions.

"I encourage the wider community and our councils to tell the NSW Government what they think of the reports, including what they like and what they don't like about them."

The deadline is now April 4 and the reports are online at dlg.nsw.gov.au.