Upcoming Programs & Events

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• Women's Career Navigator Program

  • Start
    06 Feb 2026
  •  
  • End
    27 Feb 2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    4 sessions
  • Location
    LG House - 148 Frome Street, Adelaide & Via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    0

  Join waitlist

  

  The LG Professionals SA Career Navigator Program supports women to develop a strong, authentic professional identity and approach their career and work with positivity and proactivity.

  The program equips participants with the knowledge, skills and confidence to:

  • build their professional presence and profile
  • maintain their cool in stressful and challenging situations
  • understand and navigate organisational politics and team dynamics with integrity
  • apply a Growth Mindset to personal and professional challenges to build resilience and wellbeing
  • set and pursue personal and professional goals.

  Designed to be highly interactive, with an emphasis on peer learning, the Career Navigator Program is made up of a two 1.5-hour online sessions and a two-day in person workshop at LG House, which will equip you with skills and tools to dial down your inner critic, build your career courage and take charge of your life and career.

  • Aspiring leaders
  • High potential women
  • Women who may not wish to move into more senior roles, but who want to build their professional profile and cultivate greater influence and impact in the workplace.
    
    

  Download the full flyer here
  
  

  
  

  Registrations for this event are open to female Local Government Professionals Australia, SA members, council employees, employees of regional subsidiaries and Local Government Professionals Australia, SA invited guests. 

  By registering for this program you will be subscribed to the LG Professionals SA mailing list. Should you wish to unsubscribe at any time, please email admin@lgprofessionalssa.org.au.

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• 2026 Ignite Program

  • Start
    12 Feb 2026
  • End
    08 Dec 2026
  • Schedule
    13 sessions
  • Location
    Various
  • Spaces left
    0

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  The LG Professionals SA Ignite Program is a leadership learning path for supervisors, team leaders and coordinators in local government across South Australia.

  The focus of the program is to enable those who have limited experience in managing and leading people to develop the competencies required to be successful in their role. 

  Download the full prospectus here.

  
  

  Registrations at our events and programs are open to Local Government Professionals Australia, SA members, council employees, employees of regional subsidiaries and Local Government Professionals Australia, SA invited guests unless specified otherwise on the event or program brochure.

  By registering for this event/forum/program you will be subscribed to the LG Professionals SA mailing list. Should you wish to unsubscribe at any time, please email admin@lgprofessionalssa.org.au.

  
  

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• Women's Career Catalyst Program

  • Start
    24 Feb 2026
  •  
  • End
    31 Mar 2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    6 sessions
  • Location
    LG House, 148 Frome Street, Adelaide & Via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    5

  

  The LG Professionals SA Career Catalyst Program is designed for female leaders who want to build a strong leadership legacy and identity, without compromising their values, wellbeing or relationships.

  The program equips participants with:

  • a deeper understanding of their current professional terrain, and the skills and tools required to navigate it with resilience and authenticity
  • skills to build an authentic 'leadership presence', communicate with clarity and increase workplace impact and influence
  • an understanding of how gender dynamics can influence workplace, particularly leadership experience, and tried-and-tested tools to respond effectively to bias and double standards
    

  Designed to be highly interactive with an emphasis on peer learning, the Career Catalyst Program is made up of a virtual orientation session, two-day in person workshop and three virtual implementation sessions, which provide ongoing accountability, the opportunity to troubleshoot, experiment, celebrate successes and share insights and support with co-participants.

  Download the full flyer here
  
  

  

  Registrations for this event are open to female Local Government Professionals Australia, SA members, council employees, employees of regional subsidiaries and Local Government Professionals Australia, SA invited guests. 

  By registering for this program, you will be subscribed to the LG Professionals SA mailing list. Should you wish to unsubscribe at any time, please email admin@lgprofessionalssa.org.au.

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• 2026 Strategic Management Program

  • Start
    26 Feb 2026
  •  
    9:00 AM
  • End
    11 Sep 2026
  •  
    5:00 PM
  • Location
    Adelaide University
  • Spaces left
    9

  

  Developed in partnership with Adelaide University and local government experts, the Strategic Management Program (SMP) has been designed to increase the skills and capabilities of leaders and managers in local government.

  Participants will build high-level leadership and management skills within a local government context, and learn technical skills to manage business functions and enhance innovation, strategic thinking, business acumen and operational excellence. 

  Please note: As at 19 December 2025 the Prospectus has been updated with new dates for Module 3.

  Download the prospectus here

  

  Registrations at our events and programs are open to Local Government Professionals Australia, SA members, council employees, employees of regional subsidiaries and Local Government Professionals Australia, SA invited guests unless specified otherwise on the event or program brochure.

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• Powerful Business Writing

  • When
    02 Mar 2026
  •  
    9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
  • Location
    LG House, 148 Frome Street, Adelaide SA 5000
  • Spaces left
    11

  Register

  
  

  The Plain English movement was designed to cut through the confusing legalese of important documents in an effort to create clear and coherent communication using common, everyday language that is easily understood by the reader. Incorporating Plain English principles into your work will result in less writing time, shorter documents and enhanced readability.
  
  Even if your role doesn’t require a lot of writing, how you come across is crucial to your credibility. The ability to write clearly, precisely, powerfully and persuasively is a key skill that enables you to summarise and present ideas, build relationships and gain commitment to action. It can also demonstrate your knowledge, confidence and professionalism.
  
  This course uses your own writing examples to demonstrate the use of Plain English principles and persuasive writing techniques.

  This course will be delivered in person at LG House, 148 Frome Street, Adelaide. 
  

  For more information, visit lgprofessionalssa.org.au/powerful-business-writing.

  

  Registrations for this event are open to Local Government Professionals Australia, SA members, council employees, employees of regional subsidiaries and Local Government Professionals Australia, SA invited guests.

  By registering for this event/forum/program you will be subscribed to the LG Professionals SA mailing list. Should you wish to unsubscribe at any time, please email admin@lgprofessionalssa.org.au.

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• AI Transformation: Introduction to AI

  • When
    10 Mar 2026
  •  
    9:30 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    Virtual
  • Spaces left
    0

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  Join us for an eye-opening and educational session on the potential of AI!

  Discover how AI is enhancing productivity, transforming industries and unlocking new opportunities to be efficient. We’ll delve into the benefits of AI and its offerings; from automating routine tasks to driving innovation. Learn how AI has been used for years up until this point, and how AI has developed over time to be more accessible and user-friendly as ever.

  To support you in your journey, this session will explore the challenges and risks associated with AI, including ethical concerns, job displacement, and data privacy issues. Learn practical strategies to mitigate these problems and harness AIs full potential responsibly. Whether you’re an industry professional or just curious about AI, this session is your gateway to understanding and mastering the future.

  Suitable for: All staff within local government, as your first step into AI.

  Key learnings:

  This session will provide you with an introductory overview into AI, focusing on the different platforms, how you can integrate AI into your daily work, and the current best practice governance on use. 

  This course will be delivered online via Zoom. 

  For more information, visit lgprofessionalssa.org.au/ai-training
  
  

  
  
  

  Registrations at our events and programs are open to Local Government Professionals Australia, SA members, council employees, employees of regional subsidiaries and Local Government Professionals Australia, SA invited guests unless specified otherwise on the event or program brochure.

  By registering for this event/forum/program you will be subscribed to the LG Professionals SA mailing list. Should you wish to unsubscribe at any time, please email admin@lgprofessionalssa.org.au.

  
  

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• AI Bootcamp

  • When
    10 Mar 2026
  •  
    1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
  • Location
    Virtual
  • Spaces left
    0

  Join waitlist

  
  

  Learn how to use AI to enhance your local government workday.

  AI is revolutionising the way we work - join us in this hands-on session designed to equip you with practical skills for leveraging ai tools effectively within your workplace.

  Suitable for: All staff within local government who hold a general understanding of AI including principles, ethics and AI tools; especially suited for those who complete their work frequently on their computers. 

  Looking to gain a basis of understanding with AI? Check out our AI Transformation: Introduction to AI short course.

  Key learnings:

  This session has been designed to:

  • Overview of free AIs available to improve your efficiency/effectiveness with Microsoft Office apps like Word, Outlook and Excel
  • Discover amazing AI tools like Feedly, Yabble and Perplexity
  • Discover the capabilities of Microsoft Copilot’s AI from a business point of view
  • Super-charge your work using AIs for first drafts or summarising
  • Speed up your content creation process
  • Learn to collate and proof documents and content
  • Identify file types that can be imported/exported
  • Understand the interface and limits of AIs like ChatGPT and Midjourney
  • Learn the how to prompt the AI for best results
  • Understand the requirement for appropriate and safe AI use to stay within your governance and data privacy guidelines
  • Overview of paid Ais, like Microsoft Copilot Pro
  • Understanding the limitations and issues of this technology
  • Best Practice application of external generative AI.

  This course will be delivered online via Zoom. 
  

  For more information, visit lgprofessionalssa.org.au/ai-bootcamp

  
  
  

  Registrations at our events and programs are open to Local Government Professionals Australia, SA members, council employees, employees of regional subsidiaries and Local Government Professionals Australia, SA invited guests unless specified otherwise on the event or program brochure.

  By registering for this event/forum/program you will be subscribed to the LG Professionals SA mailing list. Should you wish to unsubscribe at any time, please email admin@lgprofessionalssa.org.au.

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• LG Professionals SA Women's Network Forum: Rebalance

  • When
    12 Mar 2026
  •  
    9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
  • Location
    Lockleys Community Room - 362 Henley Beach Road, Lockleys SA 5032 and via Zoom

  Register

  

  Join us for the upcoming LG Professionals SA Women’s Network Forum – Rebalance.  A powerful and reflective three-hour forum designed to support women to pause, reassess, and realign what they give their time, energy, and “yes” to.

  In a world that often rewards doing more, this forum invites us to explore when it’s right to say no, how to say yes to what really matters, and how to rebalance work, life, ambition, care, and self, without guilt.

  Through expert facilitation and deeply human stories, our speakers will challenge long-held expectations, share practical strategies, and offer permission to prioritise what’s right for you.

  This Forum will be held in person at Lockleys Community Room and via Zoom on Thursday 12 March from 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM. 

  Read more about each session below: 

  Rebalance through change – Practical Insights for Modern Leadership
  Michelle Kennedy
  General Manager, Natural and Built Environments
  City of West Torrens

  

  Michelle Kennedy is the General Manager, Natural and Built Environments at the City of West Torrens. An engineer, senior leader, and mum of two, Michelle brings a grounded and refreshingly candid perspective on what it takes to rebalance through change.

  Drawing on her experience leading in male-dominated environments, and navigating the evolving demands of family life, Michelle will share practical approaches that have helped her rebalance well (and a few that have not).

  Participants will leave with actionable strategies to build self-awareness, strengthen resilience, and let go of perfectionism, so they can apply the principles of rebalance in their own leadership and day-to-day life.

  
  

  Anita Schneyder
  Founder, Teams on Purpose

  Anita Schneyder will facilitate an engaging and practical session focused on Rebalance: The courage to say no. Designed to support participants to pause, reassess and realign how they invest their time, energy and emotional capacity. The session challenges workplace, cultural and social norms that reward constant availability and over‑giving, while offering the language, permission and practical tools to rebalance work, life and self - without guilt.

  With warmth, clarity, and humour, Anita will explore:

  • The cost of over-giving
  • Guilt, expectations and boundaries
  • Rebalancing yes and no with intention

  This session empowers participants to rebalance their energy, values, and commitments with confidence.

  My Story
  Alyce McKay
  Horticulturalist, City of Adelaide

  Alyce McKay’s story is a powerful example of rebalancing life and career to realign with values and purpose. After 15 years in retail, Alyce recognised her need to return to the outdoors and re-centre what mattered most. Through study, volunteering, and brave career shifts, she found her way to horticulture and now supports the wellbeing of Adelaide’s green spaces and future horticulturalists.

  Her journey reminds us that rebalance isn’t about starting over, it’s about finding your way back to yourself.

  
  My Story
  Rebecca Burton 
  Business Support Officer, City of Mitcham

  Bec Burton brings a deeply human perspective to Rebalance. With more than 20 years’ experience in local government, Bec is also a single mum and full-time carer to her son, while navigating recovery from domestic violence and complex life pressures.

  Through the LG Professionals SA Women’s Career Navigator Program, Bec found clarity, confidence, and permission to prioritise wellbeing without letting go of ambition. Her story challenges the idea that women must choose between meaningful work and meaningful lives, showing that rebalance is about alignment, not reduction.

  
  

  This forum offers a unique opportunity to connect with peers, hear diverse perspectives, and gain valuable ideas that can enhance both your work and wellbeing.

  Distance shouldn’t be a barrier to participation - registrations are open for you to join us at one of our regional hubs. Simply select this option when registering so we can accommodate your needs. If you require assistance or are interested in hosting a regional hub, please reach out to Kylee Noble at kylee@lgprofessionalssa.org.au

    

  
  

  Registrations for this forum are open to Local Government Professionals Australia, SA members, council employees, employees of regional subsidiaries and Local Government Professionals Australia, SA invited guests.

  By registering for this forum, you will be subscribed to the LG Professionals SA mailing list. Should you wish to unsubscribe at any time, please email admin@lgprofessionalssa.org.au

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• LG Professionals SA General Managers and Directors Network Forum

  • When
    19 Mar 2026
  •  
    1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
  • Location
    LG House - 148 Frome Street, Adelaide SA 5000 and via Zoom

  Register

  
  

  You're invited to join us for the first LG Professionals SA General Managers and Directors Network Forum of 2026: From Uncertainty to Alignment: Practical Leadership for Complex Transitions.

  This interactive session is designed for General Managers and Directors who are navigating complex change and want practical ways to build clarity, alignment, and momentum across their organisation.

  Participants will explore how people actually respond to change, why uncertainty often triggers hesitation, frustration or disengagement, and what leaders can do to create the conditions for progress. The session will also unpack the impact of leadership congruence, highlighting how trust and culture are shaped by the consistency between what leaders say, do, prioritise and emphasise.

  Grounded in real challenges raised by participants, this session will provide a practical framework for diagnosing what is really happening beneath the surface of difficult change issues, and identifying leadership strategies that shift energy, strengthen commitment, and support sustainable outcomes.

  Participants will leave with tools and insights they can apply immediately to communicate change more effectively, create shared understanding, and lead with greater consistency.

  The Forum will be facilitated by Steven Renfrey and Kylie Butler from Reframe Change, who are also partnering with us for the Change Drivers Program. 

  Steven Renfrey Lead Consultant Reframe Change	Kylie Butler  GM, Client & Product Innovation  Reframe Change

  
  

  Key Times:
  1:00PM - Arrivals
  1:15PM - Session begins
  4:15PM - Networking Drinks
  5:00PM - Forum ends
  
  

  

  Registrations for this forum are open to Local Government Professionals Australia, SA members, council employees, employees of regional subsidiaries and Local Government Professionals Australia, SA invited guests.

  By registering for this forum, you will be subscribed to the LG Professionals SA mailing list. Should you wish to unsubscribe at any time, please email admin@lgprofessionalssa.org.au 

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• 2026 Annual State Conference

  • When
    20 Mar 2026
  •  
    8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
  • Location
    Adelaide Entertainment Centre - 98 Port Road, Hindmarsh SA 5007

  Register

  
  

  You are the people who POWER local government in South Australia. Join us for the LG Professionals SA Annual State Conference: Powering Local Government - an inspiring day designed to strengthen the people who make our communities thrive. This conference brings together leaders, storytellers, and innovators to explore the skills, insights, and connections that empower local government staff. From impactful leadership and effective communication to workforce wellbeing, resilience, and collaboration, each session is crafted to build your capability, connection, and confidence. Hear from dynamic keynote speakers, gain practical insights, and engage with a panel of field workforce staff sharing their experiences and perspectives. Come ready to be inspired, learn, and connect with your peers across the sector.

  Developed by the sector for the sector, this conference program is highly relevant and engaging for local government professionals in all job roles and levels, from metropolitan and regional councils and subsidiaries. Join us at the flagship local government conference for 2026 to learn, develop and network with your sector colleagues.

  
  

  View the full program here.

  
  

  Looking to Book Multiple Guests?

  Let us do the work for you! Please complete this form and email to Megan Hay, Events Coordinator at mhay@lgprofessionalssa.org.au 

  

  Registrations for this event are open to Local Government Professionals Australia, SA members, council employees, employees of regional subsidiaries and Local Government Professionals Australia, SA invited guests.

  By registering for this event, you will be subscribed to the LG Professionals SA mailing list. Should you wish to unsubscribe at any time, please email admin@lgprofessionalssa.org.au

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• LG Professionals SA Business Performance and Improvement Network Forum: Partnerships – Challenge to Opportunity

  • When
    24 Mar 2026
  •  
    9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
  • Location
    Brighton Sports and Social Club - Highet Ave, Hove SA 5048 and via Zoom

  Register

  

  Join us for the upcoming LG Professionals SA Business Performance and Improvement Network Forum: Partnerships – Challenge to Opportunity.

  
  

  Partnerships sit at the heart of modern local government, yet building and sustaining them is rarely straightforward. The Business Performance and Improvement Network Forum invites participants to explore how partnerships can transform challenges into opportunities, especially in environments characterised by complexity, cross collaboration, and community expectations.

  
  

  Through case studies, facilitated discussions, and panel insights, this Forum will examine what effective partnership looks like in practice: how they emerge, how they evolve, and how we can strengthen our individual and organisational capability to lead them well.

  
  

  This Forum will be held in person at Brighton Sports and Social Club, Highet Ave Hove and via Zoom on Tuesday 24 March from 9:30AM - 12:30PM. 

  
  Read more about each session below: 

  
  

  
  Turning Lessons into Opportunity

  
  

  Leanne Schmidt

  Manager Emergency Support

  LGA South Australia

  
  

  Leanne Schmidt plays a key leadership role in strengthening the Local Government Functional Support Group (LGFSG), bringing councils, emergency services, and community partners together to build capability, consistency, and preparedness across the sector. Known for her collaborative, relationship‑driven approach, she focuses on transforming long‑standing coordination challenges into opportunities for shared improvement and greater sector‑wide resilience.

  
  

  In this session, Leanne will share how the Local Government Functional Support Group (LGFSG) model is evolving to better connect 68 councils and 6 Regional LGAs in delivering coordinated support during major emergencies from bushfires to storms to state‑wide responses. Leanne will explore how clear purpose, shared processes, and cross‑sector partnerships are transforming complexity into innovation, strengthening the sector’s ability to respond, recover, and continuously improve. Participants will gain insight into how partnership‑based emergency management is driving performance uplift and building a more capable, cohesive local government sector.

  
  Langhorne Creek Discovery Trail

  Lisa O’Donoughue

  Manager Economic Development

  Alexandrina Council

  
  

  Discover the power of strategic partnerships in action with Lisa O’Donoghue, known for transforming ideas into major regional investment wins. Lisa specialises in investment attraction and collaborative economic development, working across industry, government, and community sectors to unlock regional opportunities.

  In this session, Lisa will share the story behind one of South Australia’s most exciting regional successes - the Langhorne Creek Discovery Trail, recently awarded a $7.06 million Regional Precincts and Partnerships grant. Through her leadership, Lisa brought together diverse partners to champion a shared vision for the region, demonstrating how aligned purpose and strong relationships can secure truly game‑changing outcomes.

  Lisa will also reflect on her broader partnership work both locally and internationally, including her contributions to South Australia’s China engagement efforts and the Northern Territory’s China Minerals Investment Attraction Strategy, initiatives that together have generated millions of dollars in new investment.

  
  Greater Adelaide Regional Plan

  Aaron Schroeder

  Strategic Projects and Planning Manager

  City of Burnside

  
  

  In the first part of this session, Aaron Schroeder will set the scene by unpacking the broader environment in which councils plan for growth. An environment shaped by multiple decision‑makers, strategic frameworks, and long‑term plans that influence how housing and development evolve across the region. Aaron will explore how these sometimes-complex requirements can also spark alignment, innovation, and shared purpose when approached through a partnership lens.

  
  

  Building on this foundation, Aaron will then lead a panel discussion on Partnerships in Planning for Housing Growth, shifting the focus to how collaboration can reshape the future of housing in Greater Adelaide. The panel will explore how state government, local government, developers, and community stakeholders can work together to meet ambitious housing targets while strengthening neighbourhoods and delivering meaningful community benefits. Together, they’ll highlight how shared challenges become shared solutions through social licence, streamlined pathways, and long‑term partnerships that support innovation, affordability, and resilient communities.

  Meet the panel:

  

  
  

  Julia Grant

  Chief Executive Officer

  City of Burnside

  
  Julia Grant is the Chief Executive Officer of the City of Burnside and brings extensive experience from senior roles across local and state government. She is recognised for her strengths in driving high‑performing teams, community engagement, policy development, and sustainability‑focused city planning. Her expertise in building resilient, future‑focused cities is considered a major asset to the organisation.

  

  
  

  Don Donaldson

  Manager Planning & Development

  City of Unley

  
  

  Don Donaldson is a planning professional with extensive experience in strategic planning, heritage and planning policy, and development assessment. Currently the Manager Planning & Development at the City of Unley, Don is also a Fellow of the Planning Institute of Australia. He has served on multiple assessment panels and currently is a member of the State Commission Assessment Panel. Beyond his local government career, Don spent several years with Praxis Labs, helping commercialise innovative solar‑integrated composite technology developed by his son.

  

  
  

  Anthony Marroncelli

  Manager Development Services

  City of Holdfast Bay

  
  

  Anthony Marroncelli is the Manager of Development Services at the City of Holdfast Bay, a role he has held since 2008. With more than 20 years of senior experience in urban design, planning policy, development assessment, and place‑based strategy, he brings deep technical expertise and a strong understanding of coastal, heritage, and residential planning contexts.

  
  

  Networking

  In the spirit of this forum’s theme, Partnerships: Challenge to Opportunity, the final part of the Forum is designed to help participants transform brief encounters into meaningful professional connections. Networking opportunities across councils can be rare, and this dedicated session encourages everyone both in‑person and online to stay, mingle, and build relationships that extend well beyond the event.

  
  

  

  Thinking about making the trip? We encourage our members to join us in-person for this forum. Reach out to your colleagues for carpooling opportunities to maximise connection and reduce your environmental footprint. 

  Registrations for this forum are open to Local Government Professionals Australia, SA members, council employees, employees of regional subsidiaries and Local Government Professionals Australia, SA invited guests.

  By registering for this Forum, you will be subscribed to the LG Professionals SA mailing list. Should you wish to unsubscribe at any time, please email admin@lgprofessionalssa.org.au.

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• Introduction to Project Management

  • When
    25 Mar 2026
  •  
    9:30 AM - 4:00 PM
  • Location
    LG House, 148 Frome Street Adelaide SA 5000
  • Spaces left
    6

  Register

  
  

  Project management is a fundamental skill in our modern workforce, as it ensures that what is being delivered is not only right, but that it also delivers against the business opportunity - so it's important that we get it right.

  This course is designed to cover the basic principles of managing projects to help you plan, control and organise activities to ensure that you are delivering successful projects every time. It is best suited for staff who may be new to managing projects or have not previously undertaken any formal project management training.

  Suitable for: those seeking to enhance their self-developed project management skills, including: Officers, Coordinators and Team Leaders.

  This course will be delivered in person at LG House, 148 Frome Street, Adelaide. 
  

  For more information, visit lgprofessionalssa.org.au/introduction-to-project-management.

  
  
  

  Registrations at our events and programs are open to Local Government Professionals Australia, SA members, council employees, employees of regional subsidiaries and Local Government Professionals Australia, SA invited guests unless specified otherwise on the event or program brochure.

  By registering for this event/forum/program you will be subscribed to the LG Professionals SA mailing list. Should you wish to unsubscribe at any time, please email admin@lgprofessionalssa.org.au.

  
  

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• LG Professionals SA People and Culture Network Forum: Recognition in Action

  • When
    31 Mar 2026
  •  
    9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
  • Location
    Tiwu Kumangka (Blackwood Library and Community Centre) 2/4 Young Street, Blackwood SA 5051 and via Zoom

  Register

  

  
  

  Join us for the first LG Professionals SA People and Culture Network Forum of 2026: Recognition in Action. A practical, thought-provoking forum exploring how councils can move beyond rewards to create meaningful, everyday recognition that drives engagement, belonging and performance. From research insights and sector led case studies to low cost, high‑impact ideas you can implement immediately, this Forum brings together academics, practitioners and peers to share what’s working and what’s next.

  This Forum will be held in person at Tiwu Kumangka (Blackwood Library and Community Centre) 2/4 Young Street, Blackwood SA 5051 and via Zoom on Tuesday 31 March 2026 9:30AM – 12:30PM.

  
  

  Read more about each session below: 

  
  

  Recognising and Rewarding Staff in Local Government

  Dr Sarah Chua

  Program Director and Senior Lecturer

  Adelaide University

  
  

  In 2025, UniSA released the Recognising and Rewarding Staff in Local Government report, research co‑funded by the Local Government Research and Development Scheme. The report uncovers how councils across Australia are approaching staff recognition amid rising public scrutiny and shifting employee expectations.

  Join Dr Sarah Chua as she unpacks the story behind the research, explores the historical context, highlights key insights, and shares practical, actionable ways you can strengthen recognition in your organisation.

  Empower your teams. Boost morale. Celebrate what’s working and discover what’s next.

  
  

  Case studies

  
  

  Recognition Reframed

  Jo McCarthy

  Unit Manager Organisational Development

  City of Marion

  
  

  Recognition matters, yet the rules have changed. It’s no longer about what we do, but about how. Discover how the City of Marion is embedding a practical, principle driven approach to recognition, championed by the Executive, Senior Leadership and People and Culture teams. While we all understand its impact on wellbeing, belonging, retention, attraction and culture, recognition does not need to be risk averse to be responsible. Marion is embracing a thoughtful, transparent and policy anchored approach that is both fair and purposeful.

  
  

  Recognition, Rebuilt

  Gus Rankine

  Manager People and Safety

  Alexandrina Council

  
  

  Gus will take us through the journey he and his team embarked on to reconfigure recognition within their workplace. Through a clear values realignment and peer-based gratitude program, he will run through the overarching systems Alexandrina Council created to strategically map its recognition framework into their overall Employee Lifecycle.
  
  

  Social Connection as Recognition

  Michael Mallamo
  Coordinator, Strategic Planning

  City of Adelaide

  
  

  As the current Co-Executive Officer of the City of Adelaide Social Club Committee, Michael and the team have been working closely with the City of Adelaide People Program to navigate what Reward and Recognition can look like for Adelaide, including all staff events and partnering to promote and work together for the benefit of the whole organisation. The City of Adelaide has also leveraged their more formal structure and financial power in recent years to support several other Council's to participate and join in social activities. 

  Michael will present some of the work they have done with a focus on governance, People and Culture collaboration, staff social connections and working across the sector.

  
  

  Turning Insight into Action

  
  

  In this final session Gus Rankine will lead an interactive workshop designed to turn today’s insights into real‑world action. Drawing on the case studies shared throughout the forum, participants will explore practical steps you can take immediately, experiment with shifting from “reward” to “recognition” language and uncover low‑cost initiatives that make a meaningful impact.
  
  

  Come ready to collaborate, challenge thinking, and walk away with clear, actionable next steps to strengthen recognition in your workplace.

  
  

  

  
  

  Registrations for this forum are open to Local Government Professionals Australia, SA members, council employees, employees of regional subsidiaries and Local Government Professionals Australia, SA invited guests.

  By registering for this Forum you will be subscribed to the LG Professionals SA mailing list. Should you wish to unsubscribe at any time, please email admin@lgprofessionalssa.org.au

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• 2026 Management Challenge

  • When
    23 Apr 2026
  •  
    7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Location
    Adelaide Showground - Goodwood Road, Wayville SA 5034

  Registration is closed

  
  

  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.

  The teams are challenged to respond to a series of tasks in a unique one-day, fast paced, ‘pressure cooker’ environment. Some tasks will require written responses (such as a council report or recommendation document), and some will take the form of role plays or presentations and the teams are also scored on observations of how well they display energy, synergy, effectiveness and creative thinking.

  View the prospectus here.

  Registrations for this event are open to Local Government Professionals Australia, SA members, council employees, employees of regional subsidiaries and Local Government Professionals Australia, SA invited guests.

  By registering for this event you will be subscribed to the LG Professionals SA mailing list. Should you wish to unsubscribe at any time, please email admin@lgprofessionalssa.org.au 

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• Change Drivers Program

  • Start
    28 Apr 2026
  •  
  • End
    26 May 2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    3 sessions
  • Location
    LG House, 148 Frome Street, Adelaide & Via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    23

  Register

  

  The LG Professionals SA Change Drivers Program will equip you with the tools needed to guide your organisation through change with confidence, clarity and momentum. It’s about leading change from within; aligning purpose, people, and performance to create meaningful progress.

  Benefits of Change Drivers:

  • Builds leadership congruence and alignment
  • Strengthens ability to manage energy and setbacks
  • Encourages clarity, consistency, and authentic leadership
  • Teaches leaders how to sustain momentum and inspire commitment
  • Applies neuroscience and behavioural theory to real-world leadership

  Delivered as three immersive 4‑hour modules the program is designed to strengthen how leaders navigate change in themselves, their teams, and their organisations. Grounded in practical tools and real‑world application, participants will expand their thinking, build confidence in leading change, and develop the clarity needed to move from insight to action.

  Download the full brochure here
  
  

  

  Registrations for this event are open to female Local Government Professionals Australia, SA members, council employees, employees of regional subsidiaries and Local Government Professionals Australia, SA invited guests. 

  By registering for this program, you will be subscribed to the LG Professionals SA mailing list. Should you wish to unsubscribe at any time, please email admin@lgprofessionalssa.org.au.

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• Advanced Project Management

  • When
    13 May 2026
  •  
    9:30 AM - 4:00 PM
  • Location
    LG House, 148 Frome Street Adelaide SA 5000
  • Spaces left
    16

  Register

  
  

  Every day in local government, we're managing projects.

  Whether you’re leading infrastructure upgrades, delivering community programs or improving internal processes, strong project management skills are essential. And as local government professionals, we should be leading the way.

  This course will explore project leadership and you will learn how to manage some of the challenges faced when managing big projects in a local government context.

  Our Advanced Project Management course is designed for those ready to move beyond the basics. Perfect for anyone with experience managing projects, or who has completed our Introduction to Project Management. This course digs deeper into project management theory and looks at both operational and strategic elements of project management.

  Best suited to those who have some project management experience behind them, and those that have completed the Introduction to Project Management course.

  This course will be delivered in person at LG House, 148 Frome Street, Adelaide. 
  

  For more information, visit lgprofessionalssa.org.au/advanced-project-management.

  
  

  Registrations for this event are open to Local Government Professionals Australia, SA members, council employees, employees of regional subsidiaries and Local Government Professionals Australia, SA invited guests.

  By registering for this event/forum/program you will be subscribed to the LG Professionals SA mailing list. Should you wish to unsubscribe at any time, please email admin@lgprofessionalssa.org.au.

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• 25th Annual Leadership Excellence Awards Gala Dinner

  • When
    22 May 2026
  •  
    6:30 PM - 11:30 PM
  • Location
    Adelaide Convention Centre, North Terrace Adelaide

  Register

  
  

  The Local Government Professionals Australia, SA Leadership Excellence Awards Program recognises outstanding achievement and innovation in local government. The association is pleased to present a program that not only recognises excellence, but contributes to the advancement and improvement of local government as a sector.
  

  Join us to celebrate the achievements of local government professionals!

  Event Details:

  • Pre-Dinner Arrivals: 6:30PM

  • Dinner: 7:00PM

  • Dress: Cocktail

  • 
    

  Looking to Book Multiple Guests?

  Let us do the work for you! Please complete this form and email to Megan Hay, Events Coordinator at mhay@lgprofessionalssa.org.au 

  This event is only open to people employed by a council or other local government entity unless they are event sponsors or corporate partners. 

  Note: A cancellation policy applies to this event. Please view the policy here before registering. 
  

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• 2026 Emerging Leaders Program

  • Start
    28 May 2026
  •  
  • End
    27 Nov 2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    10 sessions
  • Location
    Various Locations
  • Spaces left
    0

  Join waitlist

  

  The Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) is a program aimed to provide participants with a greater level of comprehension and understanding of local government; increased understanding of leadership concepts and practices and how to integrate these learnings into the workplace, increased confidence; enhanced self-awareness; an appreciation of and an ability to work with different personality types; the opportunity to challenge their assumptions. 

  Registrations open Wednesday 14 January 2026.

  Download the prospectus here.

  Check your Council Classification here. 

  
  

  Registrations at our events and programs are open to Local Government Professionals Australia, SA members, council employees, employees of regional subsidiaries and Local Government Professionals Australia, SA invited guests unless specified otherwise on the event or program brochure.

  By registering for this event/forum/program you will be subscribed to the LG Professionals SA mailing list. Should you wish to unsubscribe at any time, please email admin@lgprofessionalssa.org.au.

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• Speak with Influence, Negotiate with Ease

  • When
    05 Jun 2026
  •  
    9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
  • Location
    LG House, 148 Frome Street, Adelaide SA 5000
  • Spaces left
    23

  Register

  
  

  In the local government environment, being able to influence those inside and outside of our organisations is a critical skill. Our ability to communicate clearly and influence ethically is essential to being able to productively manage projects, workloads and timelines.

  In addition, we build ongoing collaborative relationships as a by-product of establishing effective negotiation behaviours. This short course encourages you to gain an insight into your current negotiation preferences and to develop the micro-skills necessary to navigate through the range of negotiations you face in the workplace. 

  This course will provide you with tips and tricks to enhance your current communication, negotiation and influencing styles. Course facilitator, Gary Edwards, will share a range of tools and frameworks that will enable you to communicate more effectively in any situation.

  For more information, visit https://lgprofessionalssa.org.au/speak-with-influence-negotiate-with-ease/

  
  

  Registrations for this event are open to Local Government Professionals Australia, SA members, council employees, employees of regional subsidiaries and Local Government Professionals Australia, SA invited guests.

  By registering for this event/forum/program you will be subscribed to the LG Professionals SA mailing list. Should you wish to unsubscribe at any time, please email admin@lgprofessionalssa.org.au.

  Show details