
At the forefront of professional development in local governmentfor 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.
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| 2027 LG Professionals SA Local Government Management ChallengeTeam registrations for the 2027 Local Government Management Challenge are now open! Register your team now. Working within local government and interested in taking part of the Management Challenge in 2027? Express your interest directly with your manager and / or People and Culture / HR team. Some organisations have an internal process to express your interest; your manager or HR Business Partner can assist you in this process. Key details The 2027 Local Government Management Challenge will be taking place on Thursday 15 April 2027 at the Morphettville Racecourse, 79 Morphett Road, Morphettville SA 5043. Resources |
WINNER - City of Marion - CoM Watch
SECOND PLACE - City of Mitcham - MitchBusters
THIRD PLACE - City of Port Adelaide Enfield - It’s a Me, PAE
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. |