Chaired by the Vice-President of ACOA Nova Scotia, the Nova Scotia Federal Council consists of 53 federal department heads and senior officials. The Council carries out its business through eight (8) general meetings and through eight (8) committees.

Regional Councils are a forum for the exchange of information and ideas amongst senior federal officials and with the Centre. They provide leadership and co-ordination for government-wide initiatives ranging from public service renewal to improving program effectiveness and service delivery. Regional Councils are a point of contact with other jurisdictions on certain horizontal issues. Although Councils do not have a specific role in the operational delivery of government programs and services, they do add value through the exchange of information and collaboration.