At the forefront of professional development in local government

for more than 30 years

What is the Management Challenge?

The Australasian Management Challenge has been at the forefront of professional development in local government in Australia and New Zealand for more than 30 years. The Management Challenge is a simulation-based team building, learning and networking program using real local government themes - the types of issues that a senior management team in a council would most likely face.

Teams are challenged to respond to a series of tasks in a unique, fast paced, "pressure cooker" environment. Some tasks may require written responses (such as a council report or recommendation document), whilst others may be more interactive and take the form of role plays or presentations – but the mix will be a surprise for the day! 

The Management Challenge provides an excellent professional development opportunity to become more effective in leading, thinking, communicating, negotiating, decision-making, analysing and engaging.


Resources



Contact

  Megan Down
  Manager - Events & Partnerships
  megan@lgprofessionalssa.org.au
  08 8224 2088 
 


  Megan Hay
  Events Coordinator
  mhay@lgprofessionalssa.org.au
   08 8224 2087


2026 LG Professionals SA Local Government Management Challenge

WINNER - To be announced at the LG Professionals SA Awards Gala Dinner on 22 May 2026

SECOND PLACE - To be announced at the LG Professionals SA Awards Gala Dinner on 22 May 2026

THIRD PLACE - To be announced at the LG Professionals SA Awards Gala Dinner on 22 May 2026


Reflections from the 2026 Local Government Management Challenge

The LG Professionals SA 2026 Local Government Management Challenge was once again full of energy, excitement, teamwork and a few nerves, as teams from across the state took on the fast-paced realities of local government.

From executive briefings and leadership meetings to curveball scenarios and challenges under pressure, teams were called on to think quickly, work collaboratively and respond as tasks came in throughout the day. The result was an exhilarating and rewarding experience that tested both capability and composure.

For more than 30 years, the Management Challenge has been at the forefront of professional development in local government across Australia and New Zealand. It offers participants a valuable opportunity to build and strengthen their skills in leadership, communication, negotiation, decision-making, analysis and engagement. Our team at
LG Professionals SA always enjoys seeing participants step beyond their comfort zones and thrive in the process.

A huge thank you to all involved in the day - our teams, mentors, facilitators and observers. Your engagement and support are what bring this event to life.

We look forward to doing it all again next year.

We look forward to seeing you all next year for the 2027 LG Professionals SA Local Government Management Challenge, where we’ll once again put you up to the challenge! 



See also: Rural Management Challenge

The Rural Management Challenge is a sophisticated developmental program that produces outcomes that have relevant, tangible and enduring benefits for your people, your teams and your council.

FIND OUT MORE

Mailing Address: 148 Frome Street ADELAIDE SA 5000   Phone: 08 8224 2080   Email: admin@lgprofessionalssa.org.au


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