Quarterly magazine for Local Government Professionals Summer 2018
WEDNESDAY 20 & THURSDAY 21 FEBRUARY Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre
National presidency
Saluting retiring CEOs
SIGs year in review
Tony takes on the role
Reflecting on their careers
Celebrating their contribution
CONTENTS 6-9 2019 LGPro Annual Conference – The new 3Rs A four page feature with information about the keynote speakers and other highlights of our 2019 conference being held on 20 and 21 February.
13 LGPro Members salute another successful year See pics from our 2018 Member Event where we also farewelled CEOs leaving the sector.
Profile is published by Local Government Professionals (Inc)
16-17 Corporate Planners looking ahead to 2099
LGPro, Level 3/58 Lorimer Street Docklands 3008 Ph: (03) 9268 6400 Email: info@lgpro.com Website: www.lgpro.com
Pictorial round up of 2018 LGPro Corporate Planners Network Conference and Award winners.
DEADLINES
22-23 Why our members value connecting with others in the sector Hear from our members and why they value their LGPro Membership.
40-41 Special Interest Group round up for 2018 See the highlights from our SIG groups for the year, plus read about our newest SIG and our participation in the 2019 Midsumma Pride March.
48-49 Antsar Hamid – the crème de la crème of the public service LGPro Member David Power talks to this talented woman about her leadership journey.
Profile is published quarterly. The deadline for the Autumn 2019 edition is Friday 1 February 2019. CONTRIBUTIONS Story ideas and photographs are always welcome. Please contact Vicki Amiguet, LGPro’s Manager Communication and Sponsorship on (03) 9268 6400 or via email to vickia@lgpro.com ADVERTISING For information or to book advertising in Profile, please call Vicki Amiguet on (03) 9268 6400 or via email to vickia@lgpro.com CREDITS Publisher: LGPro (03) 9268 6400 Editor – Vicki Amiguet Design: Bull Design Group www.bulldesigngroup.com.au
Above: From left, Judi Krznaric, Maria Long and Laura Smith all from Frankston City Council at our 2018 Corporate Planners Network Conference.
Connect with us at
LGProVIC
FAREWELL AS PRESIDENT After two years as LGPro President and two years as Vice President, I have decided not to stand for re-election as an office bearer, so this is my final President’s Message for Profile. I’ve have been very fortunate to assume these roles on your behalf, and to lead two great Boards during my time. It’s been a terrific experience, but now is the right time for me to stand down and hand the reins to someone else. We are an organisation that is constantly changing, while maintaining a constant commitment to staying true to our role and values of being the member organisation for ALL who work in Local Government, providing development opportunities and advocacy for and on behalf of the sector. It’s because of this that our change and evolution appear seamless.
PARTNERSHIPS I’m very proud of what LGPro has achieved during my time as President. We have become more outward looking in creating opportunities for our members by developing programs with the University of Melbourne and
ADVOCACY
WORKFORCE PLANNING
Advocacy has become a much
We have worked to build sector
bigger and more prominent activity.
capacity and capability through
We have led efforts to achieve
completing a workforce planning
gender equity in senior roles and
project with five rural Councils, and
our work was the catalyst for the
will soon have a workforce planning
establishment of the Ministerial
framework, template and guidance
Women’s Roundtable.
freely available to all Councils for
We have been a key player in
their use.
developing resources and programs
Internally, we have developed a
for use in Councils across our
Board charter, a strong and clear
sector. Along with Federal and State
strategic plan accompanied by a
Government we are represented
values statement which drives our
on Victoria's Women's Network
work and provides a clear reference
Advisory Committee. We provided
point for our decision making. The
strong, focused input in the review
board has used external facilitators
of the Local Government Act and
and tools as well as self-assessment
our recommendations regarding
to achieve highest standards of
best practice recruitment and
performance and governance.
selection, workforce planning and managing complaints of sexual
MEMBERSHIP
harassment and bullying between
We are overseeing a substantial
Councillors were accepted and
overhaul of our Individual
form part of the proposed Bill,
Membership to better reflect
currently pending ascent through
our members needs at different
the Victorian Parliament.
stages of their professional lives and to increase the value of
establishing a strong partnership
We were forthright in our opposition
with IPAA Vic to address public
to including an efficiency factor
sector gender equity. We are
with rate capping, and our stance
working to promote opportunities
to support colleagues who were
Our sector has much to be proud
for those working in Local and State
inappropriately targeted, vilified
of, and I’m very much looking
Governments to learn more about
and harassed for doing their job.
forward to continuing to serve
their respective work and to get
To this end, we continue our efforts
on the Board and supporting the
practical experience working in
to secure legislative protection
exciting development of LGPro
each other’s jurisdictions.
for our authorised officers.
as your member organisation.
membership and the number of members that join us.
I look forward to seeing you at an LGPro activity soon. REBECCA McKENZIE PRESIDENT
4 | PROFILE SUMMER 2018
EXCITING TIME OF YEAR I love this time of year. It’s like rehearsals for a performance or pre-season for sporting teams, there’s so much to look forward to and a great sense of optimism. Nominations for the Emerging
relationships between Indigenous
We have installed an auto attendant
Leaders (ELP) and Executive
and non-Indigenous members
on our phone system which we
Leadership (XLP) programs have
of the community. Through this
believe will make it easier for you
come in, as have nominations for
new award our aim is to recognise
to speak to the right person and
the Awards for Excellence and the
the great work already being done
avoid being put on hold while your
2019 Annual Conference program is
and to stimulate more great efforts
call is transferred. This also provides
complete and out for registration.
right across the sector.
the added benefit of saving limited
HIGH NUMBER OF NOMINATIONS
The 2019 Annual Conference is an
The numbers for ELP, XLP and Awards nominations are high and based on experience, we expect the quality to be great. While ELP and XLP are longstanding programs, like all our work, they have been reviewed and revised with the aim of constantly improving them and ensuring they are contemporary and up to date, so it’s reassuring to see the high level of interest which supports
excellent professional development program that offers a great balance of practical work related and thought and insight provoking sessions that will stimulate you to look differently at your role and how you carry it out.
CHANGES AT LGPRO If you’ve come in or rung the LGPro office recently you will have noticed some changes. With the strong emphasis on membership and
resources, so they can be better used to serve you.
THANK OUR PRESIDENT Finally, I’d like to acknowledge and thank Rebecca McKenzie for her outstanding leadership and guidance of LGPro and for being such a strong and positive advocate for the sector in her time as President. I look forward to working with her and the nine other LGPro Board members to make 2019 a great year for all of us.
implementation of new membership
If you are taking a break have a great
or improved their currency.
categories and arrangements, we
one, and even if you’re not, have a
created a new part time Membership
wonderful and happy festive season.
The next step is to assess all
Officer role which has been filled
nominations thoroughly to ensure
by Tom Morgan who joined us
that the nominations are given
on 19 September.
our belief that they have maintained
the consideration they deserve.
POSITIVE AND RESPECTFUL RELATIONSHIPS I’m particularly pleased that we have added a new Indigenous Community Partnership Initiative category in the 2019 Awards for Excellence. Local Government has demonstrated that it has a key role to play in developing positive and respectful
Sally Flannery, who was our Bookkeeper/Admin for almost
Enjoy! I look forward to catching up with you soon.
15 years decided she would retire,
DAVID PREISS
and I’m happy to say she’s well and
"Lisa, vampires are make-believe,
having a great time. The part time Bookkeeper/Admin role has been filled by Sibylle Kuhlmann who joined
like elves, gremlins, and eskimos." – Homer Simpson
us on 22 October. Sibylle and Tom are terrific additions to a great team and I’m sure you will enjoy your interaction with them.
PROFILE SUMMER 2018 | 5
THEME:
DATE:
Wednesday 20 February from 12.30pm and Thursday 21 February from 8.30am
VENUE: Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre The theme of our 2019 Annual Conference buries the myth that Councils are all about rates, roads and rubbish. Instead we will explore how Councils are performing in developing resilient communities and nurturing respect for the diverse range of people in the community and who work in the sector. Our Annual Conference is the largest specialist Local Government conference in Australia. It provides people working at all levels with the opportunity to step away from their daily work and look at the bigger picture of what is happening in Local Government and beyond.
WORKSHOPS WITH A LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS WEDNESDAY 20 FEBRUARY 12.30PM-5PM, MELBOURNE CONVENTION & EXHIBITION CENTRE
These six work focused sessions are designed to cover areas that are high priority for Local Government. They will provide people working at all levels in the sector with an opportunity to hear from leaders and subject matter experts and to take away tips and tools that will help them in their roles.
WORKSHOP ONE
WORKSHOP TWO
WORKSHOP THREE
ENGAGING ON THE BIG, DIFFICULT STUFF
INTEGRATED SERVICE DELIVERY CAN’T BE PROVIDED ON YOUR OWN
COUNCILS UNDERTAKING SOCIAL ADVOCACY: RIGHT OR WRONG, WHAT’S YOUR ROLE
Collaboration is key to integrated service delivery and great collaboration is key to innovation and great outcomes.
Councils often undertake social advocacy and their right to do so is not in dispute; nor is the obligation of officers to implement Council decisions whether they agree with them or not.
Exploring how we can tackle community engagement for substantial, complex and potentially controversial issues.
WORKSHOP SPONSOR
WORKSHOP FOUR
WORKSHOP FIVE
WORKSHOP SIX
CULTURAL COMMUNITY TRANSFORMATIONS
FROM ONE LEADER TO ANOTHER: HOW TO EFFECTIVELY LAND AND DRIVE A NEW LEADERSHIP ROLE IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT
WORKPLACE AND WORKPLACE PRACTICE: WHAT ARE THE FACTS?
Local Government has changed to become a fast paced, dynamic environment with the availability of leadership roles constantly on the rise.
We have recently seen a strong move to open floor planning for Council offices with claims of increased collaboration and productivity.
Creativity and collaboration have the power to transform by enriching people’s lives, strengthening community connections, increasing economic possibilities and providing opportunities for greater access and inclusion for everyone.
WORKSHOP SPONSOR
6 | PROFILE SUMMER 2018
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS Three high profile keynote speakers with vastly different stories to tell will present keynote addresses on Thursday 21 February.
SUSAN ALBERTI Susan Alberti is one of Australia’s pre-eminent philanthropists, having donated millions of dollars to medical research and other charitable causes over her successful business career. Susan was a finalist in the Australian of the Year Award in 1997 and again in 2009. In 1997, she received an AM (Member of the Order of Australia) for her contribution to diabetes research. She was awarded an AO (Officer of the Order of Australia) in January 2007 recognising her long and outstanding contribution to major medical research institutions, particularly as a philanthropist, fundraiser and advocate for Type 1 diabetes care and research. On Australia Day 2016, Susan was awarded the Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) Award in recognition of her eminent service to the community, particularly through philanthropic and fundraising support for a range of medical research, education and to young women as a role model and mentor. Susan is retired Vice President of the AFL Western Bulldogs Football Club and played a major role in getting the inaugural ALF Women’s competition off the ground.
KON KARAPANAGIOTIDIS Kon Karapanagiotidis is the CEO and founder of the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre and a fierce advocate for rights of people seeking asylum, refugees and Indigenous Australians. He is also a human rights lawyer, social worker, Board Member for Children’s Ground, philanthropist, masseur and cooking enthusiast. Inspired by the struggles of his parents and his childhood experiences of racism, Kon founded the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) in 2001, aged 28. Then a TAFE teacher, he discovered that people seeking asylum were living in the community with no basic support. This led to the creation of a student run and community funded food bank launched from a tiny shop in Footscray with only a few boxes of food. Kon was awarded a Churchill Fellowship in 2010 and an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in 2011. In 2012, he was a finalist in the Australian Human Rights Commission’s prestigious Human Rights Medal. In 2016, he was named the City of Maribyrnong Citizen of the Year and received the La Trobe University Young Achiever Award.
GILLIAN TRIGGS Gillian Triggs is an Australian academic specialising in public international law. She was President of the Australian Human Rights Commission from 2012 to 2017 and is a former Dean of the Sydney Law School. Gillian graduated in Law from the University of Melbourne in 1968 and gained a PhD in 1982. She has combined an academic career with an international commercial legal practice and worked with governments and international organisations advising on law, including human rights law. She is focused on the implementation of the human rights treaties to which Australia is a party, and on working with nations in the Asia Pacific region on practical approaches to human rights. Gillian also served the Commission as Acting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner from 1 August 2016 to 9 February 2017. She is the author of many books and papers, including International Law: Contemporary Principles and Practices. PROFILE SUMMER 2018 | 7
CONFERENCE 2018 EMERGING LEADERS PRESENTATION THURSDAY 21 FEBRUARY, 11.10AM The 2018 Emerging Leaders group comprises 24 energetic professionals who work in rural and metro Councils across Victoria. They come from a wide range of disciplines across Local Government bringing unique skills, experiences and personalities. Throughout the year they have shared, learned, reflected and challenged each other to evolve their leadership skills. They have learned from many great leaders gaining broader sector knowledge and insights, including from professionals in other levels of government and outstanding leaders in the private and not-for-profit area. This multi-skilled and creative group share a vision to see Local Government succeed into the future and have applied out of the box thinking to current and emerging challenges in the sector.
SHORT TALKS THURSDAY 21 FEBRUARY, 11.50AM AND 2.15PM There will be four Short Talks from inspirational speakers during the program on Thursday 21 February. Short Talk presenters are: • Dr Kerrie Shiell, a clinical neuropsychologist • Nick Pearce, co-founder and CEO of HoMie • Frances Cannon, winner of 2018 Young Achiever Arts & Fashion Award • Alon Cassuto, a leadership and behavior change advisor
WORKSHOP – PRESENTED BY PETER MERRITT THURSDAY 21 FEBRUARY, 2.45PM Peter Merrett is an internationally recognised speaker, multi-award winner in business culture and customer experience innovation, and founder of The House of Wonderful. He has steered organisations around the world to business transformation and stand out customer service through investment in the emotional success of their people.
CONFERENCE DINNER & AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE THURSDAY 21 FEBRUARY, 6.20PM The Annual Conference Dinner and presentation of the LGPro Awards for Excellence is always a popular part of the conference program. It will held at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre on Thursday 21 February with pre dinner drinks starting at 6.20pm. Dress code for the dinner is business attire and music will be provided following the official proceedings. There is reserved seating for this event. Councils are able to reserve at table of 10 in advance.
8 | PROFILE SUMMER 2018
Proudly sponsored by:
HIGHLIGHTS WELCOME EVENT WEDNESDAY 20 FEBRUARY, 5.30PM – 7.30PM. The Conference Welcome Event will be held at The Common Man, 39 Dukes Walk, South Wharf. The event will allow learnings from the various workshops to be shared and will set the scene for the conference and provide an opportunity to socialise and network with colleagues and others in the sector. Beverages and substantial hot and cold canapés will be provided.
FEATURE SESSION – CAN YOU TRUMP THIS? THURSDAY 21 FEBRUARY, 5.25PM The Feature Session is always a bit of a highlight of the Conference program. The session will be a quiz format where delegates will have the opportunity to put some Local Government Chief Executive Officers to the test!
SPECIAL OFFERS AND REGISTRATION OPTIONS MEMBERSHIP SPECIAL OFFER
A 20% discount is being offered to LGPro Individual Members who are attending the Conference for the first time.
CONFERENCE OPTIONS
DELEGATES CAN REGISTER FOR EITHER: • Conference full package - 20 & 21 February • A Wednesday workshop - 20 February • All Thursday sessions (this does not include the Annual Conference Dinner) We encourage delegates to register online to reduce paper wastage and administration costs. You can also register via the hard copy registration form. Visit 2019 Annual Conference to learn more.
SPONSORS LGPro thanks the following sponsors for their support of the 2019 Annual Conference
PRINCIPAL SPONSOR
MAJOR SPONSOR
PROFILE SUMMER 2018 | 9
LOCAL GOVERNMENT REMUNERATION SERVICES
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It is our unparalleled experience and genuine expertise that makes sure your remuneration strategies are on the money, so to find out more, contact Mark O’Brien:
• Improve staff retention rates
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TONY TAKES ON THE NATIONAL PRESIDENCY LGPro Board Member, Tony De Fazio, has taken on the role of President of our national body, Local Government Professionals Australia. This is Tony’s second term on the
for people to develop and enhance
He says the financial sustainability
LGPro Board and he said he is
their careers and experiences
of Local Government is a key
honoured and privileged to take up
nationally and internationally.”
challenge and one which needs
the role of national president until August 2019. “I am passionate about Local Government and community service so am looking forward to promoting and advocating for our dedicated professionals who continue to serve at a high standard with ever increasing expectations and diminishing resources. I will direct my efforts to making a positive contribution and a difference to our sector,” he said. In his 41 year Local Government career, Tony, who is the Executive Manager of Governance and Customer Service at Whitehorse City Council, has committed a great deal of time and energy into contributing to the sector’s professional bodies.
Tony said Local Government Professionals Australia has gone through a period of significant change over the past 12 months and he believes the organisation will be stronger in terms of its vision and understanding of its members,
we receive form other levels of government, and the external constraints such as rate capping in some states.
to support its members and Local
also now as National President I am
Government nationally.
very much looking forward to tackling
“I’m really excited about the emerging national advocacy agenda as the organisation looks to strengthen the
these challenges head on and working to improve and strengthen Local Government,” he said.
argument for more Federal Government funding for Local Government and greater support for Councils to build their resilience and environmental management capability. We will continue to work to improve gender equity in the sector, to strengthen our workforce and to help support
looking forward to the opportunity to
Local Government officers.”
view and perspective,” he said.
rating, the grants and support
“Being on the LGPro Board and
serve at a national level and I am
which will provide me with a broader
consideration of how we undertake
and stronger in terms of its ability
“It will be a learning experience to
also contribute at an international level
a holistic approach including
Tony believes Local Government is under increasing pressure from all directions with budgets tightening,
“My personal vision on the national
community expectations rising
stage is to see Local Government
and the political climate becoming
Professionals Australia regarded as
more contentious.
representative and respected and as a leading federation providing a voice for Local Government professionals and opportunities
PROFILE SUMMER 2018 | 11
CALLING FOR IDEAS FOR WEBINAR TOPICS More than 45 people from 20 rural Councils across the state logged into our first webinar last month. We joined with one of our Corporate
Councils as part of our commitment
Partners, OurSay to present the
to bringing professional development
webinar titled: "Engagement
to people working in regional areas.
suffering from the usual suspects" which discussed and demonstrated skills and techniques to assist a community to find their voice. People working in the areas of community engagement and communications joined in.
We are planning to expand our webinar offering next year and welcome suggestions from our members on topics that would be of interest. Please contact Suzana O’Callaghan on 9268 6408 or suzanao@lgpro.com with
The inaugural webinar was only
your ideas.
open to people working in rural
GROWING SUPPORT FOR AUTHORISED OFFICERS Another group of regional Councils has written to the Attorney General seeking better protection for authorised officers working in Councils. The Eastern Region Group
The letter from the Eastern Group
Council authorised officers manage
of Councils, comprising Knox,
of Councils urges the Attorney
legislation on behalf of the state as
Maroondah, Monash, Whitehorse
General to meet with representatives
well as their local community which
and Yarra Ranges, have joined two
from LGPro and the MAV to establish
have many enforcement provisions
other regional groups of Councils
the most effective mechanism to
including domestic animal control,
supporting our ongoing advocacy
protect authorised officers working
parking regulation, food regulation,
campaign for the same legislative
in Local Government.
public health and wellbeing, planning
protection provided to emergency workers to be extended to authorised officers in Councils.
The support from regional groups of Councils is in response to a letter LGPro Board President, Rebecca McKenzie, wrote to CEOs of the
and regulation, tobacco control, building regulation, and Councils’ own local laws.
79 Victorian Councils seeking their
We are continuing to build the
support. Her letter was also sent
‘business case for change’ on this
to the Inner South Metropolitan
issue so if you or your Council have
Mayors’ Forum after they had
case studies, stories or examples
independently expressed interest
that help to support our call for
in supporting the campaign.
action please email them to
LGPro is increasingly concerned about the safety and wellbeing of authorised officers as assaults and abuse while carrying out their legitimate duties is becoming both more frequent and severe. 12 | PROFILE SUMMER 2018
and environment enforcement
davidp@lgpro.com
LGPRO MEMBERS CELEBRATE A large contingent of LGPro Members got together last Thursday to celebrate a successful year. Here are some pics from the successful event held at CQ Functions.
The new LGPro Executive, from left, Kathy Hynes (Treasurer), Celia Haddock (Secretary), Liana Thompson (Vice President) and Justine Linley (President).
From left, Birgit King from Yarra Ranges Council; David Preiss LGPro CEO and Debbie Blandford from Whittlesea City Council.
Keith Williamson from Melbourne City Council and Tony De Fazio from Whitehorse City Council who is also an LGPro Board Member. Danielle Watts from Yarra Ranges Council and Julian Harvey from Kingston City Council. Shane Marr from Brimbank City Council with retiring CEO, Rob Croxford from Moorabool Shire Council.
LGPro Board Member Chris Leivers from Yarra City Council listens to proceedings.
LGPro Vice President, Liana Thompson and Steve Burgess from Whittlesea City Council applaud one of the speakers.
Outgoing LGPro President, Rebecca McKenzie (centre) with Helen Lawless from Brimbank City Council (left) and Sheena Frost From Casey City Council (right).
| 13
Paul Buckley
SALUTING RETIRING CEOS We paid tribute to a number of CEOs who are retiring or leaving the sector at our recent Member Event. Two of these were Paul Buckley from Bass Coast and Bruce Anson from Warrnambool, who have both made significant contributions to the sector. Paul Buckley has worked in Local Government for 40 years starting as a cashier at the Shire of Morwell in February 1978. He worked in accounting, then moved to finance and corporate services before being appointed as General Manager Corporate Services in 1992. Following amalgamations
Bruce Anson
in 1994 he took on a similar role at Latrobe Council and was appointed CEO at Latrobe in 2004. In February 2014, Paul took up the role of CEO at Bass Coast and he will retire in February. Bruce Anson started work with the town of Portland in February 1973 as paymaster and worked his way up to accountant. In 1982 he moved to the Shire of Portland as deputy Shire Secretary then in 1985 he took on the role as Shire Secretary at the Shire of Euroa. Bruce moved to Warrnambool in 1987 as Director of Corporate Services, then moved into the CEO role in 2008.
Below Paul and Bruce give us an insight into their respective careers:
Highlights PAUL: Being appointed CEO and having the opportunity to help develop people in my organisation; receiving the Public Service Medal in 2012; and opportunity to make a positive difference in the quality of life of people in the communities I’ve worked with.
BRUCE: I have been a lucky man to work in Local Government with a committed group of staff both at a local Council level and an industry level. It is extremely satisfying to see the results that Local Government professionals are delivering for our community. Highlights on a personal level include working with a local company that expanded its operation from 40 staff to 1400 and being involved in work with Regional Cities Victoria that saw the establishment of the regional jobs and infrastructure fund ($1 billion over eight years).
Challenges PAUL: As a CEO, you have to balance the (often competing and/or conflicting) demands and expectations of a broad range of stakeholders – Council, Councillors, staff, community, interest groups, political parties, politicians, developers, objectors, funding partners etc. The challenge is to maintain integrity and ensure that your recommendations and decisions are based on what you believe to be the right thing to do, irrespective of the pressure that may be applied by anyone of those various stakeholders.
BRUCE: I think the major challenges are the four-year electoral cycle which can result in some new Councillors being elected who believe that they are the new broom and not a continuation. Policies may change to an extent but Councils generally continue to deliver fantastic services for their community.
14 | PROFILE SUMMER 2018
Changes in the sector PAUL: Community expectations of Local Government; the functions we now perform, i.e. the role Local Government now plays in economic development; and the amalgamation of Councils.
BRUCE: The role of Local Government has changed quite dramatically over time including the complexities of the issues that we deal with, together with community expectation and the scrutiny that Councils now face from government authorities, the community in general, local press and social media. Not all of these are positive.
Best parts of the job PAUL: Getting out of bed every morning knowing that you have the opportunity to make a positive difference in the quality of life of those in your community.
BRUCE: Providing quality services and facilities for our community. Warrnambool has been an active player in the economic development of our city and region. It is extremely satisfying to see businesses thriving and creating employment opportunities for our community. Also the friends that I have made.
How they would like to be remembered PAUL: As an ethical and authentic leader who built organisational culture based on a commitment to three key principles: 1. Performance Management – Deliver what you promise, when you promise it (Council Plan, Business Plans, Individual Performance Plans) 2. Financial Management – Deliver what you promise, when you promise it, within the financial parameters that have been set (Budget and Long-Term Financial Plan) 3. Relationship Development – Appreciate the stakeholders and understand their roles and responsibilities.
BRUCE: Someone with a sense of humour who was passionate about his community and willing to take a risk.
Plans for the future PAUL: Family, golf, fishing, travel – maybe some Board and/or project work. BRUCE: I will continue on as Chair of the Barwon South West RDA and hopefully another board. I also intend to volunteer at Lifeline (but not on the phones). I plan to get stuck into the pile of books that I have been buying over the years but never had time to read.
OTHER CEOS WHO WERE ACKNOWLEDGED AT THE LGPRO MEMBER EVENT • Adrian Robb, Bayside City Council • Mike Tyler, Casey City Council • David Madden, Moyne City Council
• Rob Croxford, Moorabool City Council • Kelvin Spiller, Greater Geelong City Council • Gary Gaffney, East Gippsland Shire Council
• Ray Campling, Yarriambak Shire Council • Garry McQuillan, Cardinia Shire Council • Tony McIlroy, Benalla Rural City Council
• Chris Eddy, Hobsons Bay City Council • Mark Stoermer, Nillumbik Shire Council • Warwick Winn, Manningham City Council
• Gary Van Driel, Latrobe City Council PROFILE SUMMER 2018 | 15
CORPORATE PLANNERS LOOK TOWARDS 2099 There was a fantastic line up of speakers and sessions at our 2018 Corporate Planners Network Conference held in late October. ‘Planning for 2099 imagine the possibilities’ was the theme of the conference where an international speaker appeared via Skype for Business for the first time.
AWARD WINNERS The winner of the 2018 Corporate and Community Planning Award was announced at the end of the conference. This year Boroondara City Council and Cardinia Shire Council were joint winners. Boroondara won the award for the Integrated Planning Framework for Boroondara. In December 2017, the Council adopted the Boroondara Community Plan 2017-27 which sets out the 10 year vision for Boroondara’s future based on the values, aspirations and priorities important to the community. To ensure integration of the plan’s vision, strategic objectives and strategies within Council, an integrated planning framework was developed. This framework, guided by the Boroondara Community Plan, represents an exciting change which was needed to ensure the Council was implementing the community’s priorities. Cardinia’s successful project, the Cardinia Shire’s Liveability Plan 2017-29, is the municipal public health and wellbeing plan and provides the framework to enhance the liveability, health and wellbeing of the Shire over 12 years. The plan represents an innovative planning approach which sees the integration of a liveability paradigm within public health planning and provides a clearer line of sight between the work Council does on the ground and key priority outcomes for Cardinia. It seeks to keep people well by strengthening the relationship between local land use planning, social planning, public health planning and community development to ensure residents get the best possible outcomes with limited resources. Cardinia also won the Delegate’s Choice Award. To learn more about the award winners and finalists visit Corporate Planners Network Award
From left, Rachel Ind and Nicole White from Boroondara Council with Alex Kerr Grant from the sponsor, CAMMS and LGPro CEO, David Preiss.
16
PROFILE SUMMER 2018
From left, Alex Kerr Grant from CAMMS, Pieta Bucello from Cardinia Shire Council and David Preiss, LGPro CEO.
The team from Jeylabs who exhibited at the conference. Keynote speaker, Jeremy Sharp presents from the United States via Skype for Business. Delegates during one of the sessions. Cameron Gray and Jennifer Brophy from Ballarat City Council.
Vicki Bonnici and Liz Rowlands from Moreland City Council.
From left, Stephanie Smith from Whitehorse Council and Mozma Tate from Casey City Council chat with Alex Kerr Grant, Effie Giannikopoulos and Alex Patterson from CAMMS who sponsored the conference and award
Chad Foulkes from Liminal by Design spoke about deliberation.
Sam Dureau, Director, sam-i-am consulting, who presented at the conference.
From left, Melissa Follett (Mildura Rural City Council), Alicja Majer (Port Phillip City Council), Jen Martin (Manningham City Council) and Sally Horner (Port Phillip City Council).
Adam Slonim from Blended Learning Group during his keynote presentation and workshop.
17
WE CAN CUSTOMISE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR YOU 2018 has been a big year on the road for our professional development team ensuring specialised training is available to people working at Councils across the state. The team ran 23 customised training
“We understand that it is difficult for
understanding of the Council
sessions at Councils during the year
staff in small rural Councils to access
material that goes into forming
allowing staff to not only learn at
programs so where possible, and if
and administering the budget.
their workplace, but the programs
there is enough interest, we try to
contained case studies relevant to
take the training to them,” she said.
their Councils.
She said the fact that the course used Darebin specific materials
“We are always open to suggestions
and examples increased awareness
Customised training was provided for
from Councils who would like us
and understanding of the Local
11 metro and 12 rural Councils during
to come to them to deliver training.
Government Act in a way that the
the year covering programs including
Sometimes groups of rural Councils
participants could relate to and also
Report Writing, Induction to Local
even get together to have training
increased their understanding of
Government, Core Financial Skills,
delivered to make it more cost
budgets and financial statements.
Good Decision Making and Ignite
effective for them,” she said.
for Outdoor Workers.
“I would recommend this option
Darebin is one Council to take
to other Councils as it allows for
In addition, regular LGPro programs
advantage of our customised training
the program to reflect Council’s
such as Induction to Local
this year. Learning & Development
policies and practices. Our staff also
Government and Core Financial
Consultant, Stephanie Bowman
found the course facilitator to be
Skills were delivered 11 times at
said LGPro was the obvious choice
excellent as he had a wealth of
rural Councils during 2018 as part
to deliver a Core Financial Skills
Local Government experience,”
of our commitment to take training
program as they have extensive
Stephanie said.
to the regions.
Local Government knowledge,
LGPro’s Manager of Professional Development, Leanne Bickley said that while staff had covered
including the legislation and officer obligations in relation to planning and reporting documents.
If your Council would like a customised program delivered onsite please contact Leanne Bickley via email
thousands of kilometres during the
Stephanie said their participants
at leanneb@lgpro.com or
year, it was great to get out into
found the course helpful as they
call 9268 6401.
regional Victoria to help meet their
were able to look at the relationship
professional development needs.
between the Council Plan and the budget and gain a greater
PROFILE SUMMER 2018 | 19
CHALLENGING THE STATUS QUO Lucy Roffey, CEO at Central Goldfields Shire Council certainly hasn’t followed the traditional Local Government career path to get to her current role. She started her career as an
Her first CEO role was at Buloke
During her career Lucy
auditor at Ernst & Young, moved
Shire Council in 2017 and she moved
says she has worked
into commercial accounting roles
to the top job in Central Goldfields
with many inspirational
eventually in the film industry, and
in March this year, a challenge well
leaders – “you take away a
was Commercial and Planning
suited to Lucy’s governance and
few gems from each of them
Director at the Australian Centre
finance background.
that you can apply to your own
for Moving Images (ACMI) where
leadership development.”
she was responsible for developing
NO CAREER PLANS
the business case, securing funding
Lucy says she had no hard and
and project managing a $17 million
fast career plans when she started
Being a female executive in
redevelopment.
out. ”I started a Science degree at
Local Government has presented
Melbourne University and they
challenges. She says early in
wouldn’t allow me to continue
her career she sought out work
my Japanese language studies in
environments and senior leaders
second year without doing a double
who understood and championed
degree in Arts. I wasn’t interested
flexible and family friendly work
in the subjects on offer in Arts so
practices. She believes the public
I switched to Commerce which
sector leads the private sector in
Throw in running a luxury spa at a ski resort in Whistler, Canada for three years, where she learnt the importance of delivering five star service, and she has certainly enjoyed a broad and varied entrée to the world of being a CEO.
CHALLENGES
allowed me to major in Japanese
this regard, and is part of the reason
MOVE TO REGIONAL VICTORIA
and Accounting.
she was drawn to the public sector.
Lucy started in Local Government
I secured a summer vacation job
Lucy says when she took on her
about 10 years ago when she moved
with Ernst and Young and really
first Local Government role in
to regional Victoria to take on the
enjoyed the work environment
regional Victoria, the first issue she
role as Director Corporate Services
and variety of clients, so became
encountered was access to child
at Hepburn Shire Council. Having
an Auditor,” she says.
care, particularly before school
experienced the benefits and lifestyle of a close knit regional community in Whistler Canada, and spending four years back in Melbourne yearning for the outdoors and more space, Lucy and her family looked to regional Victoria. Castlemaine was chosen for its proximity to both Melbourne and Bendigo, vibrant arts community,
A move to the UK saw Lucy land her first role in a film company, Polygram Film and it was during another stint overseas that she managed the Whistler resort in an operations and not a finance role that taught her the importance of delivering five star service.
choice of schools and employment
These two overseas roles also put her
opportunities (her husband is a MICA
in a strong position to apply for the
paramedic working in Bendigo and at
role at ACMI when she returned to
ESTA in Ballarat). When a Director role
Australia. Here she was responsible
came up at Mount Alexander Shire
for Customer and Visitor Services,
Council, Lucy jumped at the chance
Commercial operations including
to work in her local community, and
retail, food and beverage and events.
was Director Corporate Services there for three years.
care. “Out of school hours care for primary children is an often forgotten critical service for working families. Flexible and family friendly work practices are crucial to allow anyone in an organisation to balance care giving and working. And it is possible to balance these things with the right support, policies and culture,” she says. A lack of female mentors and role models at the CEO level in Local Government has been another issue which Lucy says has improved slightly over the last four to five years. “I look forward to greater gender balance at CEO level in the future. Role models are of course critical – we can’t be what we can’t see.”
20 | PROFILE SUMMER 2018
Lucy believes a great leader is
sector, as well as contribute locally
someone who can articulate a
which I have made the most of
clear vision for an organisation
through involvement in panels, forums
and inspire others to share and
and working groups. I try and bring
deliver it. They also need to be a
to these collaborations a different
great listener who is prepared to
perspective drawing on my diverse
learn from others and take into
work and life experiences including
account a diverse range of views.
work overseas (UK and Canada), in
She has found Local Government to be a very collaborative sector. “I like the fact that there are lots of opportunities to work across the
NEW LGPRO BOARD EXECUTIVE
metro and rural environments, and across commercial, small business and the public sector. I am always looking to challenge the status quo.�
President: Justine Linley, Ballarat City Council CEO
The LGPro Board has an all female executive for the second time in the last two years. Ballarat City Council CEO, Justine Linley was endorsed as President at our Annual Meeting in late November. The remaining members of the Board Executive for 2019 are:
Vice President:
Secretary:
Treasurer:
Liana Thompson,
Celia Haddock,
Kathy Hynes,
Director Partnerships,
Director Corporate Services,
Manager Parks & Open Space,
Planning & Engagement,
Maribyrnong City Council
Banyule City Council
Whittlesea City Council
PROFILE SUMMER 2018 | 21
WHY OUR INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS VALUE CONNECTING WITH OTHERS Our Individual Membership is diverse, made up of people at different career stages and who work in both metropolitan, regional and rural Councils. They take up membership for different reasons, however the opportunity to connect and network with an inspiring and supportive professional community is a common thread. Some of our members have been with us for up to 20 years and we value their ongoing support. Below we hear from members on the value they get out of their LGPro Individual Membership.
20 YEARS
Steven Dickson Acting Director City Development, Knox City Council “LGPro has supported my career in Local Government through conferences and seminars dealing with topical issues, special interest groups supporting the functional areas within my portfolios over time and in the delivery of information to keep me abreast of the rapidly changing issues within the sector. More importantly, however, has been the advocacy role of LGPro – raising the important issues impacting Local Government with the State and Federal Governments. LGPro is the important and respected voice everyone working in Local Government needs.”
Terry Wilkinson General Manager Human Services, Whitehorse City Council "LGPro Membership is a fantastic opportunity to participate on a broader scale than just your Local Government area or region. There are wonderful opportunities to be involved in discussions with a range of people that will enhance your knowledge and experience. I think the mentor program is a valuable tool to match staff with mentors who can bring a whole new dimension to learning. I would recommend membership to all who want to be up to date with what is going on in Local Government world and beyond."
22 | PROFILE SUMMER 2018
10 YEARS
Paul Franklin General Manager Corporate Services, Kingston City Council “Being a long term LGPro member has provided me with outstanding opportunities to connect with and to collaborate with colleagues across the sector for mutual community benefit. LGPro is an important source of information that helps me keep up to date with the latest developments in the sector. It is important to me that there is a strong organisation, like LGPro, that focuses solely on the matters that effect officers in the sector across so many work disciplines and has the ability to positively influence broader Local Government policy directions.”
Keith Williamson Manager Governance and Legal, Melbourne City Council “Membership provides me with access to a network of professional Local Government practitioners that I can’t get from any other organisation. The support and advice you receive from fellow members is invaluable. It has also provided me with opportunities to contribute to the learning and development of others in the sector. I was involved in developing the Good Decision Making workshop and am pleased to be one of the founding Co-Conveners of the newly formed Governance Special Interest Group.”
5 YEARS
Mel Jeffrey Youth Programs and Services Coordinator, Maroondah City Council “Being an LGPro Member has opened up a number of opportunities for me. Whether it be meeting like-minded people through the Young Professionals & Rainbow Networks, building skills through the Emerging Leaders and LGPro Mentoring programs or keeping up to date with what’s happening in the sector, each of my interactions with LGPro has helped me develop as a professional. I would recommend membership to anyone – whether they are starting out in the sector or have been here for years.”
Adam Cooper Team Leader Youth and Children’s Services, Maroondah City Council LGPro membership has provided me with a network of passionate people keen to make a positive difference in the world. I now have lifelong friends from LGPro programs and see many familiar faces at professional events. For Local Government to reach its potential to improve the lives of our residents, we need a strong professional association to grow and develop our individual and collective abilities.”
PROFILE SUMMER 2018 | 23
TAILORED STAFF ENGAGEMENT SURVEYS. ANYTIME, ANYWHERE. The McArthur LG Life app allows Managers and staff to access tailored surveys quickly, easily and in real time, and delivers a range of business-critical benefits: • • • • • • •
Improve retention and engagement Foster a listening culture Connect instantly with staff Develop shared leadership Be responsive Be an employer of choice Save time and resources
To find out more, contact Talent Architects: t: (03) 9868 6565 e: ta@mcarthur.com.au w: mcarthur.life
WELCOME TO NEW LGPRO TEAM MEMBERS We introduce two new LGPro team members, Tom Morgan who is our part-time Membership Officer and Sibylle Kuhlmann who is working in an accounts and administration role.
Tom Morgan Tom formerly worked for a boutique IT software firm as a Business Representative and in IT Support. He has also been a News and Features Editor of a gaming news and reviews website, and most recently has been heavily involved in JOY 94.9 doing everything from audio editing, producing and hosting news content, presenting daytime music programming and eventually as program coordinator. He was interested in joining a membership-based organisation and felt that LGPro was focused on its members and community. “I love customer service and engaging with people, and thrive on the dynamics of always having new challenges and opportunities in my work day. Having only been with LGPro for a short time it seems to me that my passion and the LGPro values align beautifully, and I look forward to seeing what I can achieve as part of the team,� Tom said.
Sibylle Kuhlmann Sibylle has worked in the not for profit sector for more than 15 years in various organisations as bookkeeper and in administration. She enjoys this sector and was attracted to the role at LGPro because of the variety and the friendly staff. Bookkeeping is a role she feels confident, familiar and comfortable working in. Sibylle has hit the ground running clearing up a backlog of work and now she wants to start streamlining some of the processes within the office. Both Tom and Sibylle look forward to meeting and working with our members and everyone who works in the sector.
WE NEED YOUR EXPERTISE LGPro members make valuable
The video can be accessed through
If you are interested in being
contributions to our conference
our Member Resource Library. To
involved in planning committees
planning committees and award
access the library, visit www.lgpro.com
or award judging panel, please
judging panels. Your input assists us to
click on the Participation tab, then
contact Diana Pawluk on 9268 6404
ensure that the conference content is
onto the LGPro Member Community.
or dianap@lgpro.com to register
relevant and people with appropriate
your interest.
qualifications are judging our awards. Many of you who have participated find it a really valuable professional development opportunity and have enjoyed the chance to network with colleagues and give back to the sector. We recently interviewed three members of the 2018 Corporate Planners Network Conference planning committee about their experience and we are sharing their thoughts in a video. | 25
CORPORATE PARTNERS DIRECTORY 2018/2019
2018/2019 LGPRO CORPORATE PARTNERS DIRECTORY CORPORATE PARTNERS (listed in the directory in alphabetical order) allaboutXpert Australia Pty Ltd Australian Receivables Limited Awards Online CAMMS Chandler Macleod Group Community Chef CT Management Group Davidson Group Empowered to Speak Fisher Leadership Good Talent Media Holding Redlich HORNER Recruitment HR Legal Hunt & Hunt Victoria .id (the population experts) I Platinum Infor Pty Ltd Insync Jardine Lloyd Thompson Ltd Jeylabs JWS Research Kernow Environmental Health & Immunisation KPMG Enterprise Johnson Recruitment LG Software Solutions Pty Ltd Lingford Consulting Services Pty Ltd Maddocks Lawyers McArthur Mecwacare Melbourne Water Monsido Pty Ltd NABO Community On-Site Massage Oracle Corporation Australia Pty Limited Oracle Customer Management Solutions OurSay PeopleScape Pty Ltd Pitney Bowes PM Partners Group Procurement Australia Productivity Matters Redman Solutions Russell Kennedy Lawyers Spookfish Symphony3 Task Exchange (LG Hub) Urban Maintenance Systems P/L Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry VicTrack Vision Super Pty Ltd Votar Partners Pty Ltd Warner Group Well Done International Pty Ltd Working Well Together Your Future Options YMCA Victoria
26 | PROFILE SUMMER 2018
LGPro is grateful for the support it receives from its Corporate Partners. The following pages contain advertisements submitted by our financial 2018/2019 Corporate Partners. Please take a moment to learn about the many services, programs and products these organisations offer to the Local Government sector.
Local Government solutions built on 45+ years specialist experience and insight • Permanent, Temporary and Contract Recruitment • Executive Search • HR Consulting – Performance Management – Employee Engagement – Remuneration Services – Leadership Development – Organisational Development
Contact: t: (03) 9828 6565 w: mcarthur.com.au
2019 LGPRO ANNUAL CONFERENCE PRINCIPAL SPONSOR
(Note: All financial 2018/2019 LGPro Corporate Partners were invited to participate in this directory. Not all of our Corporate Members took up the opportunity).
CORPORATE PARTNERS DIRECTORY 2018/2019
Convenient Nutritious To Your Door
Community Chef Delivered meals to support your active lifestyle We want you to experience more of life and do more of what you love! Our Chef’s have worked tirelessly to create nutritious, super delicious (not frozen) healthy and convenient meals. By using Community Chef’s delivered meal service, you can enjoy our tasty and nutritious meals delivered to your door. Contact us today to learn more: T: 03 9368 5900 E: info@communitychef.com.au W: www.communitychef.com.au
PROFILE SUMMER 2018 | 27
CORPORATE PARTNERS DIRECTORY 2018/2019
LGP AD For Print.indd 1
12/11/2018 3:47:47 PM
Much more than great law. At Holding Redlich, great law is our starting point. We act for a number of local council’s across Australia providing tailored solutions, underpinned by the very best legal thinking and expert knowledge. We maintain our reputation as one of Australia’s leading law firms across various key areas of practice, including: • Local Government • Administrative Law • Construction & Infrastructure • Dispute Resolution & Litigation • Planning, Environment & Sustainability • Privacy & Data Protection • Pro Bono • Property & Real Estate • Regulatory • Workplace Relations & Safety. For more information regarding the legal services we offer, please visit
www.holdingredlich.com
MELBOURNE | SYDNEY | BRISBANE | CAIRNS
28 | PROFILE SUMMER 2018
CORPORATE PARTNERS DIRECTORY 2018/2019
Continuing to get results for Local Government We are a team of experienced workplace relations and safety lawyers providing a fresh approach for Local Government clients
Our main services: • • • • •
Investigations Restructuring Training Enterprise Agreement Negotiations Complex Employment Issues
Visit our website or follow us on LinkedIn for employment law updates and insights: www.hrlegal.com.au LinkedIn: HR Legal - Australia
We listen, we provide solutions, you get results.
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PROFILE SUMMER 2018 | 29 37175_LGPro_Australia_Print_Ad_90x125mm_cl_2.indd 1
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CORPORATE PARTNERS DIRECTORY 2018/2019
iFerret enables staff to quickly and easily search email, network drives, corporate systems, archive information and more
• Provides instant access to corporate data
• Single login to corporate information
• Supports a broad variety of data sources
• Searches scanned image information
• Preserves application security • Automatic electronic information packaging
• Duplicate document identification
• Full audit trail • Integrated to commonly used corporate systems
• Installed as a ‘turnkey’ appliance solution
• Simple to use with minimal training
• Improve efficiency and reduce administration costs
Trial options available
Contact iPLATINUM to discuss your organisational needs W www.iplatinum.com.au E info@iplatinum.com.au T 1300 Ferret
30 | PROFILE SUMMER 2018
CORPORATE PARTNERS DIRECTORY 2018/2019
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PROFILE SUMMER 2018 | 31
CORPORATE PARTNERS DIRECTORY 2018/2019
Unlocking the secrets to Greater Efficiency and Effectiveness. • Email & Task Management with MS Outlook (Office 365) • Productivity Training & Coaching (Time Management) • Microsoft OneNote Training for Digital Note-Taking • Personal Effectiveness Coaching We work with individuals and Teams to improve their Productivity and Effectiveness
Contact Geoff Prior
P (02) 6056 8887 E gprior@lingfordconsulting.com.au
www.lingfordconsulting.com.au
Why Choose PULSE by LG Software Solutions? A powerful BPM (business process management) platform Facilitates & promotes Integrated Planning & Reporting Completely online, use a pc, laptop, iPad or tablet Select the modules you need now, add new modules later Simple, clean & intuitive making it easy to use Built and supported in Australia.
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Corporate Planning & Reporting
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32 | PROFILE SUMMER 2018
Delegations & Policy Management
Fees & Charges Management
Local Government Software Solutions
CORPORATE PARTNERS DIRECTORY 2018/2019
mecwacare is proudly a not-for-profit, non-denominational organisation that has been caring for people who are aged and people who are living with a disability in the Victorian community since 1959.
mecwacare offers the following services Home Care Packages Disability Services Home Care Services In Home Nursing Care Residential Services Housing and Retirement Living Community Services Opportunity Shops
Freecall 1800 163 292 www.mecwacare.org.au We have residential aged care facilities and offices in: Malvern, Glen Iris, Prahran, Mornington, Richmond, Mont Albert, Geelong, Westmeadows, Traralgon, Hoppers Crossing, Ballarat, Greensborough, Keilor, Pakenham and Melbourne’s CBD
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monsido.com.au
PROFILE SUMMER 2018 | 33
CORPORATE PARTNERS DIRECTORY 2018/2019
We help councils to digitally transform. 25+ years experience partnering with Councils.
Full Musculoskeletal Injury Front Line Workers & Prevention Planning Aggressive Customers
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Best-in-class Location Intelligence and asset management solutions. Authoritative supplier of address, cadastral and risk data. Connect disparate customer data to achieve a single view.
Ergonomic Input to Vehicle Customisation
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Strategic Wellness Programme Planning & Implementation
Visit pitneybowes.com/au or call 1800 227 232
Mental Health Awareness & Response
Ergo Advise on Refurbishments
Assurance via Safety Audits
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Trusted Local Government Advisors redmansolutions.com.au
34 | PROFILE SUMMER 2018
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CORPORATE PARTNERS DIRECTORY 2018/2019
THE SMART GLUE FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT Strategic, technology driven consultants. Specialists in connecting people with services.
www.symphony3.com
PROFILE SUMMER 2018 | 35
CORPORATE PARTNERS DIRECTORY 2018/2019
TIME TO DISCOVER WHAT’S INSIDE… votar.com.au/RCAT Gain valuable insights into your business system compliance gaps and risks Information Security, Privacy, Recordkeeping, Hosted Technology Identify > Classify > Assess > Compare > Improve > Reassess
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36 | PROFILE SUMMER 2018
t: 1300 1400 99 warnerinstitute.com.au
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CORPORATE PARTNERS DIRECTORY 2018/2019
Looking for solutions to workplace bullying?
Phone 0402 355 195 Email info@workingwelltogether.com.au Visit www.workingwelltogether.com.au
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For further information on Corporate Membership with LGPro call Vicki on 0433 157 057, or email vickia@lgpro.com or visit www.lgpro.com
PROFILE SUMMER 2018 | 37
PARTICIPANT REFLECTIONS INDUCTION TO LOCAL GOVERNMENT Graeme Meldrum, Coordinator Home Support, Horsham Rural City Council “I thoroughly enjoyed this course. Having never worked in the Local Government sector of before, I was pleased with both the content and the presenter. I learnt and took away a lot and now I know more about the running of a Council thanks to this course. I highly recommend it to anyone new and in existing roles in Councils.”
MASTERING MANAGEMENT Peter Francis, Manager, Economic Development and Tourism, Bass Coast Shire Council “The things I really valued in the course were the ‘space’ to reflect and learn in a non-pressured and non-judgemental environment, the quality speakers who created lots of food for thought, the excellent and in depth conversations between group members and underpinning it all was the high quality facilitation. I also really enjoyed seeing the personal growth of members of the group and the big life decisions that some members made as a result of doing the course.”
IGNITE Andrew McCullagh, Assistant Coordinator Recreation Reserves, Moreland City Council “The program has armed me with valuable learnings to enable myself to better lead my work team more efficiently and build a good culture. It has opened my eyes to new and different ideas and techniques of leadership. I enjoyed this program immensely.”
PROGRAM PICS FROM 2018
38 |
ON 2018 LGPRO PROGRAMS IGNITE Vera Hu, Arts and Cultural Programs Promotional Officer, Greater Dandenong City Council “The program provides tools to help you make the most out of your interactions with your colleagues. The people at the course are smart, experienced, and willing to share – I felt very privileged to be there. You will be challenged by yourself and the course cohort about the way you think about things. I highly recommend this experience to anyone eager to learn and grow at work and in life.”
IGNITE FOR OUTDOOR WORKERS Suzanne Verdoorn, Team Leader Regulatory Services, Ballarat City Council “I feel that this program has equipped me with the necessary tools to more confidently engage and communicate with my team to reach desired outcomes. I have really enjoyed the opportunity to work together with people from other Councils, and I highly recommend this program to anyone seeking to further develop their skills as a leader within Local Government.”
IGNITE FOR OUTDOOR WORKERS Chris Askey, Street and Beach Services Supervisor, Port Phillip City Council The facilitators were engaging and the atmosphere was collegial. The topics covered were relevant to my experience and the discussion was lively. Being among people with similar, if not identical, workplace problems and experiences was intriguing... common ground was found and the group started to bond.”
| 39
BUSY YEAR FOR OUR SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS More than 3,000 people working in the sector in metro, regional and rural Councils are involved in our 30 plus Special Interest Groups. 2018 has been a particularly busy
Convenors whose Councils are
to be updated with the latest
year for the groups with a total of
Council Subscribers a complimentary
news and developments with
68 meetings being held at various
LGPro Professional Membership in
other Councils and stakeholders
locations across the state. Our SIGs
recognition of their work in keeping
regardless of location.
cater for people working in a huge
the SIG Network updated, connected
variety of roles in Local Government
and inspired.
and would not operate as effectively
NEW SIGS Two new SIGs were formed during
without the important role played by
LIVE STREAMING MEETINGS
the Convenors.
We recently have started a trial of
and the Resilience SIG and both
streaming our SIG meetings and
are progressing well.
These people volunteer their time to assist in organising meeting times, venues, agendas and guest speakers.
plan to roll out streaming across the SIG Network in 2019.
They play a pivotal role in helping
We know that with so many
LGPro connect people in the sector.
involved in our SIGs across Victoria,
To show our appreciation of their support we are now offering SIG
not everyone can attend in person, however there is a need for people
the year – the Governance SIG
We will soon launch another new Occupational Health and Safety SIG (see story on opposite page). If you are interested in joining our SIG network email sig@lgpro.com or call us on 9268 6400.
JOIN A SIG Start 2019 on the right foot and tap into the collective knowledge of others in the sector by getting involved in our Special Interest Groups. There is no better network to find relevant information about your role in Local Government and improve your practices and knowledge. Join over 3,000 professional sharing best practice and learning about the latest developments across different areas of expertise.
BELOW IS THE FULL LIST OF OUR SIGS: Activity Centres and Place Managers
Consultation and Research
Occupational Health and Safety
Corporate Planners Network
Procurement
Aged and Disability Services
Corporate Services
Arts and Culture
Customer Service
Project Management Framework Best Practice
Assessment Officers
Events Network
Property Network
Behaviour Change Network
Executive and Personal Assistants Network
Rainbow Network Risk
Capital Program Benchmarking
Family, Youth and Children’s Services
Carbon Management Network
Governance
Volunteering
Communications Network
Health and Wellbeing
Web Network
Community Development
Human Resources
Young Professionals Network
Community Safety
Indigenous
Biodiversity Planning Network Building Assets
Resilience Statutory Services
Learning and Development
Email us at sig@lgpro.com to be involved or for further information please contact Michelle Cox on 9268 6403. 40 | PROFILE SUMMER 2018
RAINBOW NETWORK PROMOTING DIVERSITY IN THE SECTOR The LGPro Rainbow Network SIG is a group where LGBTQI+ people and allies working in Local Government can come together to share ideas, learnings and resources. Convenors of the group, Alex Francis
reach and impact and opportunities
Yu from Glen Eria City Council and
for their involvement in existing LGPro
Suzi Hayes from Yarra City Council
activities and possible new initiatives.
believe Local Government has come a long way in supporting LGBTQI + people working in the sector, but say there is still a long way to go.
The Rainbow Network has around 130 members. The group generally meets every two months, while the meetings are structured there is still plenty of
PRIDE MARCH One of the key initiatives of the group has been participation in the Midsumma Pride March for the past five years. “The Pride March embodies all of the values that LGPro advocates all year around including being inclusive and
The pair recently presented to
opportunity for ideas and sharing. For
the LGPro Board on the aims and
those who can’t attend the meetings
objectives of the group. They discussed
the information is shared via remote
Click here for more information on
how they could maximise the group’s
access and the LGPro forum.
the Rainbow Network.
welcoming to all,” Alex and Suzi said.
NEW SIG COVERS ALL THINGS OHS Occupational Health and Safety professionals in Local Government are invited to join our newest OHS Special Interest Group. • Act as a central group for queries
If you are interested in joining our
and officers working on Occupational
in Local Government regarding
SIG network email sig@lgpro.com
Health & Safety (OHS) will have
Worksafe programs or other
or call us on 9268 6400.
the opportunity to come together
industry body announcements.
Managers, Coordinators, Advisor
to discuss the latest trends and developments, share problems,
Marie Smith, Occupational Health and Safety Advisor at Whitehorse
showcase successes and network.
City Council is the Convenor of the
The primary functions of the
new SIG. She believes it will play a
SIG will be to:
vital role in allowing people working in these areas to come together
• Act as a forum to discuss best practice initiatives in areas such
and share ideas and common problems.
as OHS system applications, risk assessments, training programs,
“Emerging issues such as
policy and guideline development,
occupational violence and
OHS Committees
the use of chemicals in public
• Share information and ideas on OHS programs used to promote safety in the workplace – what works, what doesn’t
spaces are hot topics which a forum such as the OHS SIG can openly discuss and share new ways of working,” Marie said.
Marie Smith, OHS SIG Convenor.
| 41
2018 LGPRO AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE
WINNERS & FINALISTS DIVERSITY & INCLUSION
WINNER
Brimbank City Council, Brimbank Kitchen Challenge
The Brimbank Kitchen Challenge shows what can happen when you bring two very different worlds together in a safe and encouraging environment. A giant world of possibilities can result! This is exactly what happened when 14 Brimbank carers came together with 14 corporate volunteers and two Michelin star chefs with a social conscience, over eight weeks. While gaining essential employment skills in the area of hospitality, personal skills such as self esteem, self confidence and self awareness were also being developed and unbeknown to them all, lifelong friendships were formed. The Brimbank Kitchen Challenge project addresses the social isolation and its impact by upskilling Brimbank Carers into meaningful employment and/or work experience. Carers often ignore their own health and have the lowest levels of self care and wellbeing of any large group as measured by the Australian Unity Wellbeing Index. Many carers are exhausted and unable to take any time away from their caring responsibilities. This project aimed to address the social justice principles of access, equity, community participation and human rights for all citizens by:
• Corporate volunteers also became familiar with the local community and gained a greater understanding and appreciation of the role and challenges of carers • Having an internationally renowned Michelin star chef share his knowledge and experience with participants • Working with corporate volunteers that have a strong sense of social justice and social change put the carers at ease
1. Creating a culture of collaboration, social connectedness and learning
• Having the Metro Access Officer act as a conduit between Food Works and the Gateway Social Support Services to explore partnership opportunities encourage sustainability
2. Supporting carers with strategies to enable them to cope with challenges in their lives and consider meaningful employment within the hospitality sector and/or further afield
• Working with similar minded corporations, the project can be extended to target other more marginalised communities
3. Motivating carers to take part in an innovative life changing experience that combines cooking, education, mentoring and personal development
The Brimbank Kitchen Challenge is as much about evolution as it is about innovation. Never in Australia has a project of this magnitude been delivered to a carers cohort.
Other factors included: • Having the program delivered locally and in an all abilities facility, barriers such as access, anxiety and social isolation were addressed
42 | PROFILE SUMMER 2018
Rob Rees MBE DL, well known UK chef and passionate social justice and human rights campaigner, delivered the project in the UK for seven years before delivering it in Brimbank. It shows that social prescribing, blended and immersive projects can be a success.
HIGH COMMENDATION Yarra City Council, Building a diverse and inclusive workplace The Council is working towards increasing the diversity and inclusion of its workforce across many dimensions such as religion and ethnicity (including Aboriginal people), ability, gender, LGBTIQ, education, and age. It has a strong Employee Diversity and Inclusion Strategy which outlines its commitment to this work and action plans which shapes the work across the various dimensions. Officers located centrally within people and culture help support and drive the approach which includes policy/procedure, training, advocacy, and events to support a broad and sustainable culture shift. Diversity and inclusion is a key part of the organisation’s induction process, where unconscious bias is explored along with barriers to inclusion and strategies to overcome these. This has entailed changing policies and processes, reallocating resources, and creating innovative partnerships. Where possible activities are designed to impact on multiple diversity dimensions, and are embedded into ongoing work.
FINALISTS Casey City Council, Valley Brook Kinder Local Yarning Networks and workshops have been established by the Valley Brook Kindergarten educators in partnership with professionals supporting the indigenous community and local elders from the Wurundjeri and Bunurong People to increase educator’s knowledge, build respect and increase understanding of Australian history and cultures. Through interactive and reflective Yarning Sessions, educators realise the importance for all Australian early childhood services to celebrate Aboriginal perspectives within their programs. The sessions include opportunities to explore beliefs, values and develop confidence to support a sense of place and belonging for all children and families within diverse communities across the City of Casey. The mission of the kindergarten educators is to give children permission to question, arm them with knowledge and understanding, and decide how they will view and interact with the world around them with open and respectful minds. By exploring local language and culture, educators play a critical role in enhancing connections and identifying genuine opportunities for reconciliation. Educators are further supported to develop programs and resources that reflect local language and culture, providing a learning environment where Aboriginal children achieve their potential, succeed in life and feel strong in their cultural identify.
Horsham Rural City Council, Act@Work The Council has led the implementation of the Act@Work program across four Wimmera Councils providing support to women experiencing violence and addressing the underlying causes of violence to stop it occurring both in workplaces and in the broader community. The Wimmera has increasing family violence incident rates and in the case of Horsham, rates have been twice the state average for many years. Horsham is always in the top ten LGAs for family violence rates. This is largely due to the characteristics of the rural area – geographical isolation, fear of stigma, the effects on children when incidents go public (due to living in a small town and word of incidents being more easily spread), and cultural factors. Horsham Rural City Council engaged Women’s Health Grampians (WHG) to deliver the Act@Work program. All four participating Councils are members of WHG’s CoRE Alliance (Communities of Respect and Equality). The Alliance and its accompanying plan were launched in May 2016, reflecting and supporting a collective impact approach to PVAW in the Grampians region. The program is a workplace culture change program to increase knowledge of sexism, discrimination and violence against women by taking action at the organisational level and developing the skills of individuals to take action to intervene safely and effectively.
2018 LGPRO AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE
WINNERS & FINALISTS YOUNG ACHIEVER
WINNER
Jordan Haines, Rural City of Wangaratta
Jordan is a passionate individual and leader in the Information Services Team at Rural City of Wangaratta. He is a team player who strives for excellence in everything he does, whilst providing exceptional customer service and delivery through his dedicated commitment to quality work and outcomes for staff and the broader community. He is a driven young man always aiming to achieve the best and is a pleasure to work with. As such he is a major asset to Rural City of Wangaratta and its community. Jordan started at Council in August 2015 as a Helpdesk Officer in pursuit of a career as an Information Technology professional. His innate problem solving skills, customer service and thirst to keep up to date on current technologies was a major asset to all that he dealt with on a daily basis as the first level support for all things Information Technology (IT). Within 12 months Jordan was promoted to System Administrator where he has truly excelled seeing him win the organisation’s Corporate Service award for innovation and Council values on a number of occasions and deliver some significant projects. This is a significant achievement for someone who had limited IT experience. When Jordan was promoted to System Administrator the organisation was in the midst of moving Council staff from Lotus Notes to Office365. Due to Jordan's exceptional learning ability he very quickly came up to speed on the technical configuration required for this to be implemented. As a key resource on this project he ensured that on the day the new system went live there were no major technical issues and the switch over was seamless, with much of the learning and testing done on his own time. As part of this project the Council was also planning to roll out a Corporate Signature for email but unfortunately after three attempts by others it had to be put on hold due to many issues. Jordan took it upon himself to again research this in his own time and he came up with a solution.
44 | PROFILE SUMMER 2018
He has since rolled this out, and again it seamlessly worked first time with no impact to customers. There has been no rest for Jordan as straight after this he was involved in the HP RM8 project and again it was seamlessly implemented. He is now building the underlying infrastructure, not just bringing it into the 21st century, but is building the network and system infrastructure for the future ensuring stability and scalability to meet all future needs. Both personally and professionally the last 12 months has been a roller coaster for Jordan. On the personal side he has become a new Dad, whilst losing his own. Organisationally the Council has gone through a significant amount of change including big system implementations, major restructure and the move from Administrators to Councillors. All this has been going on in his professional life when he was starting in his new role as System Administrator. Throughout all of this Jordan has shown true dedication and continually delivered above and beyond expectations. He is a truly an exceptional young man.
FINALISTS Andrew Hermes, Borough of Queenscliffe Andrew is the Financial and Systems Accountant at Queenscliffe. He loves technology so leapt at the opportunity to implement Council's new corporate finance system. He consistently seeks to improve the organisation’s policies, procedures and processes and inspires his colleagues to consider and question their work practices to boost efficiency and satisfaction across the organisation. Andrew is a collaborative problem solver who is highly skilled in communicating with his colleagues to fully understand issues and ideas before designing and working through solutions with them. His implementation of Council's new finance system has provided a number of key benefits including the adoption of current best practice for creditors and payroll processes; efficiencies within the finance team and the management of online approvals; and enhanced financial and payroll information for staff and program leaders.
Jane Batey, Knox City Council Jane has been instrumental in driving her Council's efforts to deliver its new Electronic Document Records Management System, Knox eXplorer. She has enabled the organisation to understand the importance of recordkeeping by providing leadership to her peers through training and guidance, and as a result of her efforts, has facilitated better uptake of the system. Jane has demonstrated effective leadership and the ability to positively influence others, while leading by example in her role. She has proven on numerous occasions to be a solutions based problem solver, who can successfully communicate change to every level of the organisation. Jane has worked at Knox City Council for four years in the Corporate Records team.
Pauline Nguyen, Maribyrnong City Council Pauline has made a significant contribution to the vibrant and active business centres within the City of Maribyrnong since 2015 when she was being appointed to the new role of Business District Officer. Pauline has provided a dynamic link between traders and Council and the value of the relationships she has built is immeasurable. As a local to Maribyrnong, she has a lifelong knowledge of how the Central Business Districts have evolved over time and how best to support and sustain them. Focusing on how Council can best promote, facilitate and support business development within the municipality, Pauline has delivered many new and innovative projects. She is a young achiever committed to the innovative growth and expansion of the local Maribyrnong business community.
Aaron Moyne, Moyne Shire Council Aaron is a young man showing commitment and leadership to Local Government through his position as Strategic Planner/Energy and Major Projects Officer at Moyne Shire Council. Aaron joined the Shire in 2011 as a graduate planner had has progressed to become a vital member and leader within Council's planning unit. He has successfully represented the Council before planning panels and put a strong case to the Minister for Planning on a wind farm planning permits, EES and amendment applications. Aaron's approach to representing Council at such Panel hearings has seen him broaden his skills to cover both legislative requirements and advocacy roles on behalf of the Moyne community. In a very short time he has refined his knowledge of complex planning processes and is able to articulate a strong case against seasoned barristers.
Tom Hamilton, Northern Grampians Shire Council Tom is a gardener who takes on all challenges and tasks without fuss or inhibition. He is family and community orientated. While many move away from regional areas, Tom has found a vocation he loves and a way to be able to stay and contribute to his community, family and district. Tom treats everyone equally with dignity and respect and in return his peers respect him. He has been an outstanding contributor to the Council and the St Arnaud community being named Junior Citizen of the Year in 2014, Skillinvest Apprentice of the Year 2015 and 2017 and South West TAFE Apprentice of the year in 2017. Tom never misses an opportunity to learn something new or take on new challenges. He is able to foresee a problem and take action before the issue arises which is something more expected of a supervisor than a team member.
PROFILE SUMMER 2018 | 45
2018 LGPRO AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE
WINNERS & FINALISTS SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVE
WINNER
Port Phillip City Council, Organic waste management
South Melbourne Market has proven itself to be a leader in sustainability employing two separate waste management systems that significantly reduce the market’s volume of organic waste. Since 2015, the market has teamed with Wiggly Recyclers to send its green waste to an off-site vermicomposting worm farm, with a GaiaRecycling unit beginning operation at the market in 2016 to process other organic waste. Combined, these systems divert hundreds of tonnes of organic waste from landfill, transforming it into nutrient-rich garden fertiliser. Owned by Port Phillip City Council, the market is committed to lowering the City’s carbon emissions, reducing waste and maximising recycling efforts through service innovation as outlined in the 2017 Council Plan. Operations Coordinator, Adam Mehegan found that these aims could all be met through changing the market’s waste management policies. “I spoke to the Council’s sustainability manager about ways to recycle green waste and he introduced me to Wiggly Recyclers, which at that time was picking up waste from residential properties in the area,” Adam said. “We discussed the idea of them operating on a larger scale so they developed a plan and process to operate at a greater capacity to accommodate the market’s needs which was the first of its kind at this scale in the whole of Australia.” The market team was also looking to reduce the cost of disposing of other organic waste, including fish offal, which at the time was costing more than $55,000 a year to have removed and processed. Adam began researching the GaiaRecycling unit, a machine which could dehydrate organic waste and transform it into a slow-release fertiliser. As the market was changing its waste management company, Adam developed policies in the new contract that included the requirements of a GaiaRecycling unit to be purchased or leased and operated.
46 | PROFILE SUMMER 2018
While it took some time and effort to change staff and stallholder behaviour and attitudes towards waste management, these efforts have more than paid off. Wiggly Recyclers’ vermicomposting worm farm receives around 400 cubic metres of green waste from the market annually, reducing green waste by approximately 98% and producing Market Magic, an organic garden fertiliser. The market’s remaining organic waste (530 tonnes a year) is processed by the GaiaRecycling unit, resulting in SoilFood™, a slow release fertiliser. Both of these fertilisers are sold at the market, boosting soil health in the community and raising awareness of the market’s sustainability efforts. These excellent outcomes have led several other retailers and large organisations to visit the market to investigate the possibility of using similar waste management systems. The South Melbourne Market has become a leader in the field of waste management through its innovative, pioneering approach. Its collaboration with Wiggly Recyclers has not only diverted hundreds of tonnes of green waste from landfill, it has allowed the Wiggly Recyclers business to grow to such a scale that it is the largest vermicomposting worm farm in Australia.
Similarly, the market’s use of the GaiaRecycling machine diverts massive amounts of organic waste from landfill and produces nutrient rich fertiliser and inspires other retailers and Councils to follow their lead when it comes to sustainability.
MEETING YOUR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT NEEDS We work hard to ensure our professional development programs offer a clear pathway for our members and all people working in Local Government. We understand people working at
program and then at the Director and
Leanne said there were examples
different levels have different needs so
CEO level we offer our XLP leadership
of people who had started out by
our 2019 Professional Development
program,” Leanne said.
attending the Induction to Local
Pathway document clearly sets out each of our programs and the level they target.
“In addition, our ELP program targets emerging leaders in the sector and our Mentoring program allows people who
LGPro’s Manager of Professional
have considerable experience to give
Development, Leanne Bickley said the
back to the sector by sharing this with
programs cater for people who are
people who are wanting to increase
new to the sector, right through to
their knowledge and skills.”
Directors and Chief Executive Officers.
There are also a broad range of
Government program, then when they got to a supervisor level they progressed to Ignite and followed up with Mastering Management and finally had been part of the Executive Leadership (XLP) program. “It is amazing to see the professional and personal growth in people as they participate in our programs
“For people who are new to Local
programs that target people who want
Government we offer the Induction to
to broaden their knowledge and skills
Local Government which provides a
in specific areas. These include Report
Check out our 2019 Professional
broad overview. Then for Coordinators,
Writing, Core Financial Skills, Good
Development Pathway for your
Team Leaders and Supervisors
Decision Making, Thinking Career and
professional development
we have our two Ignite programs.
Leadership, Engaging Citizens and How
options no matter what level
Managers are catered for with our
to prepare a Strategic Resource Plan.
you are working at.
throughout their career,” she said.
specialist Mastering Management
CHECK OUT OUR MEMBER RESOURCES LIBRARY FEATURING: • Audio/video from conference keynote speakers • Tips to help you in your role • Information about how LGPro can assist your career • Interviews with experts • Copies of Profile magazine To access the library, visit www.lgpro.com, click on the Participation tab, then onto the ‘LGPro Member Community’. Email us at membership@lgpro.com with your feedback on the Member Resource Library and what you would like to see included. PROFILE SUMMER 2018 | 47
CRÈME DE LA CRÈME OF THE PUBLIC SERVICE David Power, Port Phillip City Council and an LGPro Young Professional speaks with Entsar Hamid to hear about her award winning leadership journey… Entsar Hamid is originally from North
requires us to continuously innovate
“I think the recommendations and
East Africa, has lived in the Middle
and transform our service offerings
the advice that I have always given
East, grew up in Washington D.C.
so we can bring harmony to our
have stood up to the scrutiny and
and now resides in Melbourne with
communities. Achieving this award
criticism, but initial criticism is a
her partner and three children. She
is an absolute honour.”
speaks three languages and has already had a hugely successful career in the Victorian Public Service at only 33 years of age. Entsar completed a six-month stint at Port Phillip City Council in October where she was part of the leadership team in the Cultural and Economic Development Directorate. She investigated how community services were being delivered in the municipality and whether they
VIEWS ON LOCAL GOVERNMENT
pretty common part of the work that I do especially in transformation and change-reform agendas. How I overcome it is to really assess all the
Leaving State Government and taking
stakeholders, how they are impacted
on a transformational role in Local
and what their level of interest is.”
Government was a big decision but Entsar found Local Government exciting as she liked being directly accountable to the community, as working in State Government she felt removed from the impact of the policy decisions.
Respect is really important to Entsar, both giving it and receiving it. “Sometimes I think it might be a cultural thing with me and I’m a stickler for it. It’s really important that there is always a baseline of how we treat each other and it doesn’t
were being delivered with value for
“My first project in State Government
matter what level you’re operating
money principles, meeting legislative
was in child protection proceedings
at. This goes for my personal and
requirements and Council’s focus
and getting a new Child Protection
professional life, in my relationship
on them in the future.
Policy through the Victorian Law
and what I teach my children.”
THE TOP 50
Reform Commission and then through Parliament. That was the
CULTURAL CHALLENGES
Entsar was named in the 2018
only time in my career I built a really
Enstar feels some of the challenges
Davidson Top 50 Women in Public
large policy and actually spoke to the
in her career may have stemmed
Service in Victoria. She said this was
people who were impacted. So, the
from her cultural background. "So
an incredible honour and she was
good thing about Local Government
really all of the things that people
struck by the seniority and talent
is the level of accountability.”
naturally do, which is question and
around her on the night. “It felt like I was in the company of greatness with the expertise and experience of
FRANK AND FEARLESS APPROACH
challenge advice, interactions with different people, different levels of seniority and even down to
CEOs, Commissioners and Deputy
Entsar is “a fixer” by nature who loves
negotiating salaries, I didn’t do it
Secretaries surrounding me, it was
chewing through really complex
and it didn’t come naturally to me,"
extremely humbling to be even
policy issues to deliver strong public
she said.
considered alongside these people.”
policy. She has faced adversity and
She feels her nomination was in recognition of experiences in her life including two years in the Department of Premier and Cabinet. “This helped me to really understand how the State of Victoria operates, what its challenges are in terms of infrastructure, population, multicultural affairs and social cohesion specifically, which impact on changing community demographics that
48 | PROFILE SUMMER 2018
criticism in her service transformation role. “I think when you challenge ideas and the way things are done that immediately opens you up to criticism. However, if you’re not confident or can’t stand your ground with robust research then that can happen. My approach has always been frank and fearless advice and that has got me through,” she said.
"These were the things I had to learn the hard way over time and maybe I should have paid more attention to developing these softer skills when I was younger. Being a woman of African descent, being humble and not really talking about what you do and what you do well is just how we roll, anything too confident was really a taboo in that culture. This meant I had trouble with interviews and struggled with lots of other arenas
where I had to really assertively
career after. She was very professional
present on information. I have
and intelligent. She was the type
overcome this as time has passed,
of person who would get in the lift
but I also think women generally
with anyone and introduce herself
don’t do any of these things well
and have a chat without an agenda.
and we need to change that."
Her exceptionally strong leadership
LEADERSHIP AND INTEGRITY Entsar believes great leadership is personified by great integrity and the two go hand in hand. “If you operate with integrity, then there is a rationale for decision making. When I came into the public service I worked in the Department of Justice and Regulation for the then Secretary, Penny Armytage, and I think of all the leaders I have seen operate, she really has been the one that has resonated with me the most and someone who I have most wanted to model myself and my
profoundly impacted all who she interacted with, she personifies everything that I strive to be in my career and in my own life.”
ADVICE FOR FEMALE LEADERS And finally, her advice for female leaders trying to navigate Local Government bureaucracy: “Women shouldn’t be afraid to innovate, get in and network. I was afraid to talk to senior people, I felt I couldn’t reach out to them, but what I have found over time is that people are only too happy to mentor others. It’s important to look
On the global front Entsar cites Barack
at who is doing what you want to do
Obama as her favourite. “I am a bit
later on in your career, understand
bias, but Barack is amazing! But that’s
where they have come from and their
the Washington in me. He was the
pathway and work your way back to
first and that comes with an incredible
build a plan of your own.”
amount of pressure, criticism, scrutiny and adversity, but he has risen above it and most of all, delivered a second term. For me, that calibre of leadership is something so amazing and worth aspiring to.”
David Power with Entsar Hamid.
PROFILE SUMMER 2018 | 49
COUNCIL NEWS FROM ACROSS VICTORIA
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT
COUNCIL EMPLOYEE WINS WORKSAFE AWARD Chris Williams from Greater Shepparton City Council won the Worker Return to Work Achievement Award at the WorkSafe Victoria safety awards recently acknowledging his successful journey getting back to work following a serious accident in 2016. An arborist, Chris sustained multiple serious injuries in a motor vehicle accident. During his time at Epworth Rehabilitation Hospital he formed strong friendships with other patients who were able to support and motivate each other’s recovery. He believed it was important to return to work for his mental wellbeing and he has persevered to adjust to an office based role. Karen Liversidge, Council’s Manager People and Development said: “Chris’s amazing recovery is a result of his positive attitude and focus on what he can do. He was determined to embrace life and enjoy all the little things, even the mundane daily life stuff that he would have once taken for granted.” She said Chris has been an excellent advocate for workplace and road safety since his return to work presenting at staff meetings on his recollections of the accident and the many months in recovery. He continues to promote safety in the workplace, particularly in vehicles. His return to work has been remarkable considering his injuries and is no doubt due to the support of his colleagues and the organisation.
Chris Williams and his wife Ellie and their baby Jonathon celebrate his award with his Greater Shepparton colleagues.
50 | PROFILE SUMMER 2018
HELPING PEOPLE GET BACK TO WORK A Ballarat City Council employee’s
workplace health and safety and help
dedication to excellence in helping
injured workers return to work. They
injured workers get back to work was
also celebrate the dedication of injured
recognised at a prestigious industry
workers who have overcome significant
awards ceremony recently.
challenges to return to the workforce.
Injury Management Advisor, Stacey
More than 170 entries from a variety
Guy won the Return to Work Coordinator
of industries nominated for the awards.
of the Year award at the 2018 WorkSafe
Stacey was one of four finalists in her
Awards in October.
award category.
The awards highlight the outstanding
In the last seven years, Stacey has
contributions individuals and
helped more than 100 injured workers
organisations have made to improve
achieve a safe and sustainable return to work. Her focus is on timely intervention and she instigated a provider panel to assist injured employees with medical assessments and early treatment for niggles or injuries. She also introduced City of Ballarat’s My Wellbeing program and has increased return to work and
Stacy Guy with her WorkSafe award.
manual handling training.
GLEN EIRA COMMUNITY VOICE In late 2017, Glen Eira City Council established Community Voice, a new initiative to engage with the Glen Eira community in a way that would represent the views of local residents. Set up as an online panel of 400 to 600 residents, Community Voice was an idea borne out of the work of Council’s Community Consultation Committee, comprising Councillors, community representatives and Council officers, working together to look for ways to enhance how Council engages and seeks input from the community for decision making about important issues. In the six months since Community Voice was launched the feedback has been fantastic. A group of 460 community members has been recruited to reflect the Glen Eira population in terms of gender, age and suburb. The group has participated in four online
surveys providing Council with input on everything from protecting trees in Glen Eira, attitudes to gambling, gender equality, use of Council buildings, food scrap recycling and garbage pickup, health and wellbeing activities and volunteering. Community Voice has an online portal for members to be kept up-to-date on newsletters, updates and survey reports, as well as other Council engagement activities. The Council’s commitment to Community Voice members is to use their feedback in decision-making, provision of services and program reviews. This is reported back to Community Voice following each survey.
COUNCIL NEWS FROM ACROSS VICTORIA
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT
PRESTIGIOUS AWARD WIN FOR COUNCIL PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM Hume City Council received the Special Minister’s Award in the 2018 Victorian Early Years Awards for its partnership with Foundation House and 10 early years centres and agencies, in the Hume Refugee Early Years Cluster 2017/18 program. The prestigious award recognises programs which are considered exceptional and meeting the needs of the most vulnerable children within Victoria. The Hume Refugee Early Years Support Cluster program aims to improve inclusion for families and children of refugee backgrounds in early years’ services in the community. Over the past 18 months, each partner in the
TO EMPTY OR NOT TO EMPTY?
program has reviewed their services and made changes to the way they work with families and agencies to better support refugee children. This included developing visual and translated resources as well as asking parents to teach staff key language phrases and encouraging parents to volunteer at the centre.
Hume celebrates receiving the Special Minister’s Award.
Yarra City Council’s Smart Waste Management System knows exactly when to send out trucks to empty rubbish bins in public spaces which means no more overflowing bins or wasting resources collecting half full bins.
CUSTOMER FOCUS PAYS OFF FOR FRANKSTON
Under the system, which was introduced about a year ago, the area’s 600 public bins are fitted with hand sized devices that provide real time alerts on waste levels, including when the bin is about to overflow.
Frankston City Council’s hard work to improve its customer service has paid off with a recent CSBA Local Government Customer Experience Report listing the Council as a top performer, sitting fifth out of the 40 Councils included in the report.
Since these devices were fitted, the project has reduced the greenhouse gas emissions generated by the collection trucks by 64.73 tonnes by using them in smarter ways. Yarra has also reduced the cost of servicing and maintaining their street bins by 20%. Bins to be emptied are managed in real time through dynamic routing and there’s been an improvement in the detection of illegal dumping onto the bin network.
This great result followed a mystery shopping assessment, which saw Council staff improve their customer experience since the last mystery shopping assessment by 10% to 61%. The assessment considers friendliness, levels of empathy, whether or not clarity was sought, and how the officer closed the interaction. Manager of Community Relations at Frankston City Council, Sam Jackson said that the outstanding
result demonstrates that the amazing work the team has done, and that a stronger induction process, additional training for staff and clearer KPIs has paid off. “This improvement was so significant that we actually had CSBA make contact with us and ask what we had done to achieve such a strong improvement since the previous round of mystery shopping. We are currently working on reviewing our Customer Focused strategy and putting the customer first, not just during service interactions, but also at the heart of decisions and how projects are delivered across Council. Work in this space is ongoing, but we now have a top three spot on the list as a goal,” Sam said.
Stephen Elford, Waste Minimisation Grants Project Officer at Yarra, is doing his PhD on this new system and says: “We can now capture key quantitative data on our bins. This includes average times to reach capacity, general bin filling trends, seasonal bin filling trends and information on the effectiveness of our current garbage collection. “I was so pleased to be able to come to Yarra and continue my PhD work. Data gives us so much if we just know how to look at it. I’m really looking forward to seeing how we can continue to use what our bins tell us to keep improving waste education and strategic planning, as well as creating a more liveable and healthy environment for our residents.”
PROFILE SUMMER 2018 | 51
WELCOME TO NEW MEMBERS We would like to welcome the following new members who joined LGPro between 21 August and 13 November 2018. We look forward to working with you to shape our wonderful sector. Nives Alban, CHSP Review Officer, Banyule City Council
Rachel Burns, Community Health & Wellbeing Officer, Hobsons Bay City Council
Melissa Falkenberg, Manager Project Management Office, Wyndham City Council
Gemma Harris, Online Communications Officer, Moreland City Council
Brooke Arnold, Loddon Shire Council
Ellen Butters, Service Review Coordinator, Greater Bendigo City Council
Natalie Fildes, Governance Officer, Baw Baw Shire Council
Tim Harrison, Chief Executive Officer, Ararat Rural City Council
Brooke Cameron, Organisation Development Officer, Greater Bendigo City Council
Bronwyn Fiscalini, Administration Officer, Hindmarsh Shire Council
Ben Harty, Engineer, Corangamite Shire Council
Taryn Carter, Customer Service Officer, West Wimmera Shire Council
Simon Fleming, Warrnambool City Council
Suzi Hayes, Diversity and Inclusion Officer, People & Culture, Yarra City Council
Peta Foster, Supported Playgroups Facilitator, Hindmarsh Shire Council
Stuart Henham, Senior Safety Advisor, Mornington Peninsula Shire
Jenny Free, Payroll Services Officer, Colac Otway Shire Council
Isaac Hogan, Civil Engineer, Swan Hill Rural City Council
Janet Arundell, Community Relations Team Leader, Corangamite Shire Council Stacie Bacon, Warrnambool City Council Sherie Bain, Biodiversity Officer, Southern Grampians Shire Council Gayle Belling, CHSP Team Leader, Banyule City Council Foti Beratis, Coordinator Environmental Health, Maribyrnong City Council Fiona Blick, Communications & Media Officer, Moira Shire Council Laxmi Boodhun, Enterprise Resilience Partner (Risk), Wyndham City Council Janne Bowen, Municipal Emergency Management Officer, Corangamite Shire Council Jane Bowker, Executive Assistant to CEO and Councillors, Pyrenees Shire Council Julie Braisby, Payroll Officer, West Wimmera Shire Council Kathy Bramwell, Risk Management Coordinator, Pyrenees Shire Council Tamara Broadsmith, Planning Officer, Swan Hill Rural City Council Angela Brophy, HACC Team Leader, Banyule City Council Kali Brown, Management Accountant, Mitchell Shire Council Katherine Bulluss, Centre Coordinator, Banyule City Council Shelby Burke, Executive Assistant – Community Assets, Baw Baw Shire Council
52 | PROFILE SUMMER 2018
Stacy Charlton, Governance Development Officer, Greater Bendigo City Council Andy Clark, Recreation Administration Officer, Southern Grampians Shire Council Jen Clifton, Golden Plains Shire Council
Skip Fulton, Safety and Risk Management Officer, Kingston City Council
Jo Connellan, Planning and Project Officer, Greater Bendigo City Council
Louise Gabbe, Assistant Finance Manager, West Wimmera Shire Council
Mick Cummins, Chief Executive Officer, Bayside City Council
Henel Gaffney, Payroll & Accounts Officer, Borough of Queenscliffe
Phil Cunningham, Assets Field Officer, Corangamite Shire Council
Paul Gangell, Manager Parks and Open Space, Greater Bendigo City Council
Sally Curran, Unit Manager Governance, Moreland City Council
Max Gaynor, Administration Officer, Loddon Shire Council
Andre Dalton, Planning Coordinator, Hindmarsh Shire Council
Sian Gleeson, Environmental Sustainability Coordinator, Banyule City Council
Anthony Dufty, Environment Project Officer, Corangamite Shire Council
Jade Glen, Internal Engagement Advisor, Baw Baw Shire Council
Jordyn Dunn, Trainee – Early Years & Safe and Healthy Environment, Greater Bendigo City Council
Sue Godfrey, Senior Landscape Architect, Boroondara City Council
Melanie Duve, Corporate Planning and Reporting Officer, Colac Otway Shire Council Jaime Edge, Community Development Officer, Whitehorse City Council Sally Edwards, Lifelong Learning Officer, Melton City Council Helen Ellis, Box Hill Town Hall Coordinator, Whitehorse City Council
Greg Hollis, Environment Sustainability Coordinator, Baw Baw Shire Council Anita Holman, School Focused Youth Services Coordinator, Yarra Ranges Council Leeanne Honeyball, Advocacy and Research Officer, Mitchell Shire Council Sally Horner, Planning & Performance Advisor, Port Phillip City Council Julie-Anne Houghton, Technical Administration Officer, Glen Eira City Council Ben Hunter, PAC Operations Coordinator, Southern Grampians Shire Council Aaron Hussey, Talent Acquisition Lead, Wyndham City Council Alison Jones, Inclusive Towns Project Officer, Greater Bendigo City Council
Jo Grant, HACC Team Leader, West Wimmera Shire Council
Sally Jones, Manager Cultural and Economic Development, Port Phillip City Council
Daniel Griffiths, Investigation and Design Engineer, Hindmarsh Shire Council
Cassandra Kelly, Youth and Early Years Coordinator, Horsham Rural City Council
Steve Hamilton, Director Infrastructure Services, Maribyrnong City Council
Catherine Kentish, Environmental Health Officer, Greater Bendigo City Council
Greg Harris, Work Placement and Vol Mgmt. Support Officer, Greater Bendigo City Council
Simon Khong, Business Excellence Consultant, Yarra Ranges Council
Jacynta Tram Khuu, Melbourne City Council Matthew King, Warrnambool City Council Nicole Kinnersly, Administration Officer, Corangamite Shire Council Michael Kolapo, Project Management Engineer, Hindmarsh Shire Council Maddie Lyall, Trainee – People & Culture, Greater Bendigo City Council Fiona Lynch, Senior HR Business Partner, Banyule City Council Rakesh Dutt Maharaj, Project Manager Major Transport Programs, Maribyrnong City Council Maddison Majer, Coordinator Online Communications, Moonee Valley City Council Tanya Marques, Youth Services Coordinator, Kingston City Council Shelley Bourke, Masters, HR Coordinator, Glenelg Shire Council Melissa Mazzarino, EA to Director Corporate Performance, Greater Bendigo City Council Jake McAllion, Customer Service, Southern Grampians Shire Council Carolyn McDowell, Senior Landscape Architect, Boroondara City Council Callan McDuff, Communications Officer, Warrnambool City Council Travis Mcintosh, Local Laws Officer, Southern Grampians Shire Council Petra McLoughlin, Senior Industry Development Officer, Greater Bendigo City Council Caroline Meier, Senior Project Officer, Knox City Council Graeme Meldrum, Horsham Rural City Council Carol Mitcham, Lead – Customer Support and Corporate Information, Boroondara City Council Samantha Murfett, Senior Assistant Accountant, South Gippsland Shire Council
Adrian Murphy, Manager Active Communities, Hobsons Bay City Council
Hannah Rowlands, Communications Coordinator, Whitehorse City Council
Jen Murray, Contract and Procurement Officer, Golden Plains Shire Council
Jamie Shelvin, Finance & Payroll Coordinator, Hindmarsh Shire Council
James Nolan, Greater Shepparton City Council
Amanda Shepherd, Acting Arts & Leisure Project Officer, Colac Otway Shire Council
Wendy Ollington, Coordinator Asset Management System, South Gippsland Shire Council Tom O'Reilly, Chief Executive Officer, Gannawarra Shire Council Sarah Osborne, Communications Coordinator, Colac Otway Shire Council Kylie Ovenden-Fitzgerald, Senior Economic Development Officer, Greater Bendigo City Council Monique Perry, Senior Landscape Architect, Melton City Council Dawn Peters, Loddon Shire Council Kurt Pitts, Manningham City Council Christina Plant, Acting EA to CEO, Darebin City Council Elinor Porat, Team Leader – Youth Support & Pathways, Yarra City Council Lucy Power, Risk & OHS Coordinator, Banyule City Council Veronika Pradel, Community Strengthening Officer, Moreland City Council Anu Prasad, Executive Assistant to CEO, Brimbank City Council Nicole Pretty, Business Improvement Coordinator, Greater Bendigo City Council Elizabeth Roberts, Coordinator St Hellier St Children's Centre, Banyule City Council Ashley Roberts, Director Corporate and Community Services, West Wimmera Shire Council Sam Romaszko, Manager Engineering Services, Melton City Council Mellisa Roninson, Warrnambool City Council
Jamie Shevlin, Finance and Payroll Coordinator, Hindmarsh Shire Council Sam Shoulders, Media & Communications Coordinator, Ararat Rural City Council Praphulla Shrestha, Horsham Rural City Council Graeme Shurdington, Finance Officer, West Wimmera Shire Council Kate Sieh, Manager – Connected Communities, Casey City Council Amit Slaria, Insurance Officer, Wyndham City Council Tienne Smith, Administration Support, Hobsons Bay City Council
Charles Taveira, Manager, Infrastructure Services & Planning, Greater Dandenong City Council Claire Tehan, Manager People & Culture, Golden Plains Shire Council Ellie Thompson, Occupational Therapist, Knox City Council Dominique Trickey, Strategic Planning Coordinator, Mount Alexander Shire Council Sarah Troisi, Communications Officer, Corangamite Shire Council Tess Underwood, Customer Service Officer, West Wimmera Shire Council Chris Vanderark, Manager Property, Glen Eira City Council Sarah Vella, Communications Officer, Bass Coast Shire Council Kelly Walters, Passive Reserves Leading Hand, Greater Bendigo City Council Dylan Weeks, Melton City Council
Pip Smith, City Strategy Program Lead, Knox City Council
Patti Wenn, Acting Director Community Services, Golden Plains Shire Council
Georgina Snaddon, Senior Corporate Planning and Performance Advisor, Manningham City Council
Mairead Whelan, Warrnambool City Council
Laura Sonnberger, Project Management Engineer, Hindmarsh Shire Council Paul Spencer, Senior Asset Management Engineer, Hindmarsh Shire Council Hayley Stacey, Warrnambool City Council Sarah Stahl, Acting Team Leader Administration and Support, Boroondara City Council Belinda Stewart, Manager Family & Children Services, Moonee Valley City Council Kyla Sullivan, Risk & Insurance Advisor, Baw Baw Shire Council Sylvia Tamburo, Strategic Planning Administration Officer, Bass Coast Shire Council
Shane Whitten, Manager Financial Accounting, Colac Otway Shire Council Wendy Williamson, Property Officer, Corangamite Shire Council Miki Wilson, Integrity Advisor, Greater Bendigo City Council Matthew Wilton, Governance Support Officer, Hume City Council Serena Wojkow, Finance Officer, Glenelg Shire Council Debbie Wood, Director Presentation and Assets, Greater Bendigo City Council Kirsten Wood, Senior Project Manager, Hobsons Bay City Council Kerryn Woods, Executive Governance Officer, Banyule City Council Madison Wright, Recreation Officer, Mitchell Shire Council
*This is not a full list of new members. Some members requested not to be listed.
Click here for information on LGPro Individual Membership or phone 9268 6403. PROFILE SUMMER 2018 | 53
CHRIS LEIVERS & JAN LAWSON Chris Leivers is Director City Works and Assets at Yarra City Council and an LGPro Board Member. He has worked in Local Government since 2003 starting out as a youth worker before working in various community services and community planning roles. In recent years he has been more involved in project planning, management and delivery and recently transitioned into the Infrastructure area which he is loving.
Chris Leivers What you enjoy outside of work Friends, family, holidays (in any form - short and long; near and far), and the great outdoors – particularly on a run or on a mountain bike. I love good food, and don’t mind a red wine either.
The most famous person you have met Working as a concierge at a boutique (read expensive) hotel in Covent Garden, London in the mid 1990’s, I met dozens of stars from film, theatre, music etc. Cate Blanchett, Bjorn from ABBA, Liv Tyler, Drew Barrymore, Courtney Cox, Bon Jovi, Sam Neill, Barry Humphries…I could go on. (Liv Tyler was the nicest!)
Amusing situations you have faced at work
Something about yourself that may surprise people
I have seen a few funny things in the Council Chamber – including a resident who brought a duck in a pram, a lady with a Pumpkin and I have even heard someone sing a budget submission.
After finishing University, I spent three years travelling the world. Asia, Europe, Africa, America’s. I learnt so much more in those three years than the equivalent time at University.
What AFL football team you barrack for and why you chose them
What you enjoy most about your job
Richmond Tigers. They were winning in my formative years (all those years ago… and not much since) – and I was living in their recruiting area, back when they recruited from regions.
Working with great people; huge variety in the work – doing something different every day; being able to influence outcomes and deliver for the community.
Jan Lawson is Manager of People & Culture at Stonnington City Council where she has worked since 2007. She has also worked at Hume, Macedon Ranges, Moonee Valley and Maribyrnong Councils since starting her Local Government career in 1978.
Jan Lawson What I enjoy outside of work
AFL team
My dream holiday
I never tire of travelling Australia. So many places to see across our country and even within an hour or two of where I live. A recent holiday camping in Noosa with friends was fabulous even though the fish weren’t biting.
Which team I follow depends on who I am with. When I’m with my husband it’s the Crows, my son Collingwood and my brother Essendon. I’m not sure if this means I’m cowardly or kind.
Italy – I don’t know why but I have always been fascinated by Italy. The food, the people, the language and the country itself. It is definitely my dream holiday destination.
What makes me laugh
What I enjoy most about my job
Favourite sports to watch
Other people who laugh a lot. Laughter is catching so I try and surround myself with like-minded friends and before you know it there is laughter all around you.
It sounds blasé but it’s the people. My job has high engagement levels and I think one of the reasons for this is we are working in a career that contributes to community.
I love to watch a good game of tennis, especially live. The atmosphere at a good game is so exciting, if you can stand the tension that is. 54 | PROFILE SUMMER 2018
DIARY DATES
PROGRAMS
PROGRAMS
Connect with us at
LGProVIC
DATE
INFORMATION
The 2019 program begins on 14 February
To equip and support senior executives in Local Government.
The 2019 program begins on 7 & 8 March
For those who aspire to positions of leadership and to those who aspire to provide leadership in a particular area of interest in Local Government
Series 1 begins 6 March
A cross-Council program for officers from all levels and locations to learn from each other by sharing knowledge, expertise and skills
Series 1 begins 5 March
Program to help people working in outdoor roles develop competencies required to manage and lead
Series 1 begins 28 & 29 March
Program to help people develop competencies required to manage and lead people
7 February at LGPro office, level 3/58 Lorimer Street, Docklands 28 February at Latrobe City Council
Designed for those who are new or recently appointed to the sector
28 February at LGPro office, level 3/58 Lorimer Street, Docklands
To support non-finance staff to perform their financial planning and reporting responsibilities
14 March at LGPro office, level 3/58 Lorimer Street, Docklands
Designed to provide those writing Council reports with a better understanding of what makes a good report
19 March at LGPro office, level 3/58 Lorimer Street, Docklands
To assist non specialist governance staff to acquire a clear understanding of the governance context and arrangements
Winners will be announced at the 2019 Annual Conference Dinner on 21 February
Celebrating the excellent work being undertaken in the Local Government sector
Nominations open 13 March
A $10,000 educational scholarship open to all women aged 35 and under who have demonstrated achievements in improving community life
AWARDS
AWARDS
2019 Sally Isaac Memorial Scholarship Fund Award
Wednesday 20 February and Thursday 21 February, 2019 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
The theme for the 2019 Annual Conference is: The new 3Rs – Respect, Relate and Resilience
2019 Social Media Conference
Wednesday 8 May, CQ Functions, 113 Queen Street, Melbourne
For Local Government professionals using social media as an engagement tool
2019 Customer Service Conference
Thursday 15 & Friday 16 August, CQ Functions, 113 Queen Street, Melbourne
This conference and is held biennially for staff working in Customer Service roles in Local Government
For further information regarding these or any LGPro event visit www.lgpro.com or contact LGPro on (03) 9268 6400. PROFILE SUMMER 2018 | 55
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CONFERENCES
CONFERENCES/SEMINARS
The publication is produced by: Local Government Professionals Inc Level 3/58 Lorimer Street Docklands VIC 3008 Tel: (03) 9268 6400 Fax: (03) 9646 0469 info@lgpro.com www.lgpro.com