A WORD FROM THE CEO
July marks the beginning of a new financial year, bringing with it fresh plans, priorities and opportunities for professional growth. At LG Professionals SA, we are here to support you and your teams with development opportunities that are relevant, practical and designed for the local government context. Keep an eye out as new sessions are released, and register early where you can, as places often fill quickly. |
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Thank you to all who have renewed your organisation’s membership subscription. We are excited to continue supporting you, your teams and the wider sector in the year ahead. Our membership recently surpassed 4,000 Members, a testament to our growing and engaged sector.
This month, we were proud to host the LG Professionals SA People and Culture Network Conference, bringing together professionals from across South Australia for a day of learning, connection and meaningful discussion. Congratulations to the People and Culture Network Committee on delivering another valuable and insightful event.
We have also launched our AMPLIFY: Awards Spotlight Series webinars, which will provide an opportunity to hear more from finalists across the categories of the 25th Annual Leadership Excellence Awards. These sessions are a wonderful way to celebrate excellence, share learnings and showcase the projects and people making a real impact across local government.
Best of luck to the City of Marion’s CoM Watch team, who will represent South Australia at the 2026 Australasian Management Challenge Final in Hobart. Competing against teams from across Australia and New Zealand is an incredible achievement, and we know you will do SA proud.
Wishing you all the best for the month ahead as we continue soaking up this intermittent winter sun.
Best wishes,
Rhiannon |
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LOOKING BACK AT THE PEOPLE AND CULTURE NETWORK CONFERENCE - CULTURE BY DESIGN
On Friday 24 July 2026, more than 120 people and culture professionals from councils across South Australia gathered for the biennial LG Professionals SA People & Culture Network Conference, Culture by Design. The conference brought together sector leaders and practitioners for a practical and future-focused day exploring how communication, capability, psychosocial safety and values-driven leadership can help shape strong and sustainable workplace cultures.
The day kicked off with an engaging keynote from Jarrod Walsh, who provided practical strategies for building confidence, communicating authentically and strengthening leadership impact. Delegates then heard from Sophie Holdstock, Executive Capability at ElectraNet, who shared insights into workforce capability uplift, organisational transformation and the role of people, technology and business improvement in building future-ready organisations that can be implemented in local government.
A key focus of the conference was psychosocial risk and workplace mental safety. Simon Kearney, Founder of Readiness, explored how councils can take a proactive and measurable approach to managing psychosocial risks, which was followed by a panel discussion featuring local government professionals and legal and workers compensation experts who shared real-world experiences, lessons learned and practical approaches to creating safer and healthier workplaces.
Following lunch, Kayla Johnson, from Good Trouble Group, challenged attendees to think differently about values-driven leadership and how organisations can embed values into everyday behaviours, accountability and decision-making to create positive cultural change. The conference concluded on an inspiring note with keynote speaker Katie Iles, who drew on neuroscience, behavioural psychology and design thinking, to demonstrate how curiosity, awe and wonder can help drive innovation, improve decision-making and rehumanise workplace culture.
Thank you to the LG Professionals SA People and Culture Network Committee for delivering another outstanding conference, and Committee Chair Rachel Read for expertly emceeing the day, and to all attendees for taking time out of the office and demonstrating their commitment to professional development and creating thriving workplace cultures across local government.
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ANNOUNCING AMPLIFY: AWARDS SPOTLIGHT SERIES
LG Professionals SA is pleased to be delivering the AMPLIFY: Awards Spotlight Series.
This brand-new 11-part webinar series has been created to shine a light on the outstanding projects and people shaping the future of local government, while providing a new way for our Members to learn from the people, projects and ideas being recognised across the local government sector.
Hear firsthand about the challenges they overcame, the lessons they learned, and the outcomes they achieved, while connecting with your peers from across the sector. Whether you're looking for fresh ideas, inspiration, or opportunities to collaborate, these sessions offer a unique chance to learn from some of local government's most outstanding leaders and projects.
AMPLIFY is designed to elevate best practice, support cross-council learning and create more opportunities for sector-wide connection in an accessible online format.
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AMPLIFY: AWARDS SPOTLIGHT SERIES - EXCELLENCE IN INFRASTRUCTURE DELIVERY PROJECTS UNDER $2 MILLION
Join us for our first webinar in the AMPLIFY: Awards Spotlight Series! Hear in-depth about the projects that won over our judging panel in the Excellence in Infrastructure Delivery Award for projects under $2 million at the 25th Annual Leadership Excellence Awards.
Register now to hear about initiatives from the City of Adelaide, Barunga West Council, and District Council of Yankalilla, that have delivered meaningful impact, enhanced local spaces, improved accessibility, and supported how people live, work and connect every day.
This webinar is being held online via Microsoft Teams on Tuesday 25 August 2026, 2:00PM – 3:00PM.
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IT'S TIME TO CELEBRATE 4,000 LG PROFESSIONALS SA MEMBERS!
Recently, LG Professionals SA officially hit 4,000 Members!
Our Members are at the heart of everything we do. Through connection, professional development, networks, events and sector-wide opportunities, we are proud to support the people who help South Australian communities thrive.
Thank you to our Members for being part of our LG Professionals SA community. Here’s to continuing to grow, connect and strengthen the sector together.
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GLOBAL INSIGHT ONLINE FORUM - INCREMENTAL INNOVATION
Thursday 13 August 2026
This session explores how two councils have successfully embedded incremental innovation and continuous improvement into their operations. They will share their experiences, demonstrating how creating space for staff to contribute ideas, test them safely, and refine workflows can transform organisational performance. Participants will gain practical insights and real examples that can be applied within their own roles in local government.
Proudly delivered in partnership with LG Professionals NSW.
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How the City of Port Lincoln is using strategy, partnerships and evidence to deliver environmental action with real community value.
For many regional councils, the challenge of sustainability is not a lack of ambition. It is the question of how to turn big ideas into practical, affordable and lasting change.
At the City of Port Lincoln, that question has shaped a bold new chapter.
The Environmental Sustainability Program, delivered by the City of Port Lincoln Environment and Infrastructure Team, has transformed the way council approaches waste, water, energy, climate resilience and biodiversity. What began as a call from Elected Members and the community for stronger environmental action has grown into a strategic, evidence-led program attracting major funding, building partnerships and delivering tangible benefits for the region.
Now recognised with the Excellence in Environmental Leadership and Sustainability Award at the 2026 LG Professionals SA 25th Annual Leadership Excellence Awards, the program is proving that small regional councils can lead big environmental change.
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We caught up with Daryl Tian, Senior Strategic Planner, City of Salisbury, about what led him to join the Emerging Leaders Program, his biggest takeaway from the Opening Retreat, and what he's most looking forward to as part of the Program.
What made you sign up for the Emerging Leaders Program?
The Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) appealed to me as an opportunity to develop the skills, confidence and networks I needed to become a more effective local government officer and leader. It is a great opportunity for me to learn how to influence positive outcomes, drive innovation and contribute to meaningful change. I believe leadership is about creating the future you want to see, and this program provides an excellent foundation for that journey. Thank you to the City of Salisbury and
LG Professionals SA for my participation in this program.
What was your biggest takeaway from the opening retreat?
It was reassuring to see that everyone was on the same journey, despite all coming from different work backgrounds and experiences, and all gathered for a common purpose. I learned a lot about myself, particularly how comfortable I became with stepping outside my comfort zone, bonding with new people and trying new things. |
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The challenges were definitely a highlight! They were fun, dynamic and offered valuable insights into how we operate individually and as a team. I think the 2026 ELP group smashed it!
What are you most looking forward to as the program progresses?
Alongside the program outcomes and leadership skills, I am looking forward to getting to know my peers better and building lasting friendships throughout and after the program. The group projects have been a great way to apply what we have learned and demonstrate the value of leadership and collaboration in achieving positive outcomes. I look forward to continuing to grow with my peers – and a special shoutout to my project and module groups for being absolute legends! |
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Daryl Tian
Senior Strategic Planner
City of Salisbury |
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YOUR NEEDS, YOUR MEMBERSHIP
As your Membership Association, we are so grateful for your ongoing support, and investment in your teams.
We'd like to thank and welcome our new and renewing organisation members. We are grateful to have this opportunity to support all local government staff on their career journey into the future. As your membership Association, we are so grateful for your ongoing support, and investment in your teams.
Not sure if your organisation holds a membership subscription? Click here to find out! |
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5. STRIVE FOR EXCELLENCE
Respected and widely recognised within and outside of the sector, our Leadership Excellence Awards Program began in 2001 and celebrates outstanding achievements and innovation in local government. The Awards showcase the level of expertise and excellence in our sector and is an opportunity exclusive to members.
Learn more about what your LG Professionals SA Membership offers you. |
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NEW
MEMBERS
Welcome
to our 141 new Members! Click here to see the list.
We look forward to
providing support and professional development and networking
opportunities
through every stage of your local government career. |
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This month we spoke with Shannon Barton‑Ancliffe, WHS/Risk Officer, Renmark Paringa Council, about her role, her learnings so far in the Ignite Program, and how quality time with her family is what matters to her most.
What is your role and how long have you been in local government?
My role is WHS/Risk Officer for Renmark Paringa Council, and I have been in local government since January 2023. Read more... |
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Shannon Barton‑Ancliffe
WHS/Risk Officer
Renmark Paringa Council
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LG PROFESSIONALS SA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT NETWORK FORUM: PLACES FOR PEOPLE: SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE FOR CONNECTION, BELONGING AND WELLBEING
Thursday 27 August 2026
Join us for the LG Professionals SA Community Development Network Forum: Places for People: Social Infrastructure for Connection, Belonging and Wellbeing.
This Forum will explore how social infrastructure supports connection, belonging and wellbeing across our communities. Through council case studies, sector insights and shared discussion, attendees will consider how places such as community centres, libraries, recreation spaces, sporting clubs, sheds, public spaces and accessible beaches can be planned, activated and sustained to better serve the people who use them.
Whether attending online or in person, this Forum will offer practical lessons, honest reflections and fresh thinking on how councils can create places that are not only built for people, but shaped with and sustained by the communities they serve.
Before the Forum, attendees can join a guided tour of Ngutungka Henley. After the Forum, attendees can join for a Henley Beach accessible walking tour.
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FROM OUR COPORATE PARTNER, LOCAL GOVERNMENT RISK SERVICES
CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF SAFER WORKPLACES
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For 40 years, the LGA Workers Compensation Scheme has provided services and support to the South Australian local government sector, ensuring safety and wellbeing in the workplace. Since 1986, the Scheme has been built on a foundation of mutuality, enabling South Australian Councils to share knowledge, resources and expertise to create safer workplaces and better outcomes for employees across the sector.
What began as a collective commitment to protecting local government workers has evolved into a partnership that supports councils through risk management, workplace safety, injury prevention and recovery.
As Victoria MacKirdy reflects on her experience in her recent role as Chief Executive Officer at the City of Victor Harbor:
"Having the Mutual working with me and supporting Council gives me the reassurance I need. I know we have the support, services, programs, training and expertise available to help us achieve the best outcomes for our staff. Local government as a sector has benefited enormously from having the Mutual in place.”
To celebrate this milestone, the LGA Workers Compensation Scheme have developed a short anniversary animation highlighting some of the achievements, partnerships and innovations that have shaped the Scheme over the past 40 years.
The LGA Workers Compensation Scheme thanks their Members for their ongoing commitment and partnership as we look ahead to the future together.
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AI TRANSFORMATION: INTRODUCTION TO AI
Wednesday 19 August
Discover
not only why integrating AI into your work is essential for the future but also
how to implement it ethically and responsibly. Learn practical strategies to
leverage AI effectively while mitigating risks and ensuring that your adoption
of this inevitable technology is both impactful and safe. Want to supercharge your AI learning? We recommend registering for AI Bootcamp as well to make it a full day of learning.
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AI BOOTCAMP
Wednesday 19 August 2026
This is a detailed and immersive workshop designed to empower you with the skills and knowledge to harness the full potential of free AI software and programs easily available to you, and to understand more of Microsoft Copilot Pro. You’ll explore how to use free AIs safely, while understanding the difference between free and paid options currently within the market.
Want to supercharge your AI learning? We recommend registering for AI Transformation: Introduction to AI as well to make it a full day of learning.
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UNLOCKING THE POWER OF AI WITH MICROSOFT COPILOT
Thursday 27 August 2026
This engaging and immersive workshop is designed to empower participants with the practical skills and knowledge to confidently understand the full potential of all versions of Microsoft Copilot. The session includes Copilot Free, Copilot for Windows 11, Copilot Chat, CoPilot Pro and Microsoft 365 Copilot, along with brief insights of additional offerings such as Copilot for Sales, Service, Studio, GitHub Copilot, and integrated tools like Loop, Pages, and BizChat
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SPEAK WITH INFLUENCE, NEGOTIATE WITH EASE
Friday 28 August 2026
For the first time, our Speak With Influence, Negotiate With Ease short course will be held online via Zoom. Get in quick to secure your spot in this engaging and accessible learning format.
This course will provide you with an insight into 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.
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ADVANCED PROJECT MANAGEMENT
Friday 18 September 2026
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.
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POWERFUL BUSINESS WRITING
Tuesday 27 October 2026
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.
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INTRODUCTION TO PROJECT MANAGEMENT
Wednesday 4 November 2026
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.
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PERFORMANCE COACHING
Monday 9 November 2026
This
course enables participants to develop skills and confidence in holding performance conversations in an easy and comfortable environment. Participants are provided
opportunities to engage with a new and contemporary approach. They will prepare
for effective performance conversations in their workplace.
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Looking for a specific short course or want to secure your place in the next scheduled session? Express your interest for the variety of our short courses on offer through
LG Professionals SA here.
See a course that you would like to deliver in-house directly to your employees at your Council or Subsidiary? Please reach out to Jade Falco, Training and Development Officer at jade@lgprofessionalssa.org.au. |
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Please save the date for the following LG Professionals SA events for 2026. If you are planning a local government event, we invite you to contact us to avoid date clashes.
Thursday 10 September 2026 - LG Professionals SA CEO Network and General Managers and Directors Network Joint Forum Thursday 13 October 2026 - LG Professionals SA People and Culture Network Forum Thursday 21 October 2026 - LG Professionals SA Business Performance and Improvement Network Forum Friday 30 October 2026 - LG Professionals SA Women's Network Conference Thursday 12 November 2026 - LG Professionals SA Annual General Meeting
Registrations and further details on our events will be released soon! |
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LG PROFESSIONALS SA SPONSORSHIP AND CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS
Do you work for or know an organisation who would be interested in gaining exposure to local government professionals through sponsorship with LG Professionals SA?
As a not-for-profit association, LG Professionals SA rely on the support of sponsors to be able to continue to deliver the range of high quality events and professional development programs that we are known for.
Partnering with sponsors also creates opportunities for our members to learn, build
relationships and receive best value. Please contact Megan Down, Manager - Events and Partnerships, for further details on corporate partnership opportunities.
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ABOUT
LOCAL GOVERNMENT PROFESSIONALS AUSTRALIA, SA
LG
Professionals SA is a not-for-profit member based association representing
professionals working in local government in South Australia.
We have
the ability to link and connect people from different councils who may not
otherwise form relationships or share.
Our high
quality professional development programs and networking events are uniquely
local government – reflective of the culture of the sector and sensitive to the
needs of its
professionals.
The
content of our events and programs are informed by our members and people who
genuinely care about the sector.
We
provide a safe and supportive environment in which to grow and learn while
creating
opportunities to make time away from the office to work on the
business or on self.
We award and acknowledge
achievements of excellence. |
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LG Professionals SA | lgprofessionalssa.org.au
Local Government Professionals South Australia Incorporated
Australian Registered Body Number 699 452 849 | ABN 901 765 327 68
148 Frome Street Adelaide SA 5000
admin@lgprofessionalssa.org.au | 08 8224 2080
Connect with us: |
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