In January, Frankston City Council’s Chief Executive Officer, Steve Gawler, began a five week assignment in South Africa to assist in the delivery of Local Government services in developing areas of the country. He was selected to take part in the Australia South Africa Local Governance Partnership (ASALGP), which is funded by the Australian Government through its Agency for International Development (AusAID).
Steve Gawler is assisting the Provincial Department of Traditional and Local Government Affairs in KwaZulu-Natal to develop an action plan that will address capacity building and support the needs of selected municipalities.
Steve will be a technical advisor, using his experience and expertise in Local Government management.
“I will be working with several Councils which are struggling to deliver essential services such as water, electricity, sanitation and housing,” he said. “I will also work with the Provincial Government to establish a plan to build Councils’ capacity. This is the final stage of an intensive three year program.”
Steve Gawler said it is a privilege to be selected for the assignment and believes it will be challenging and rewarding.
“I think it is great that Australian Local Government is able to make a contribution to a developing nation which is facing many challenges to establish effective Local Government systems to tackle the provision of basic services,” he said.
Steve Gawler said there were several benefits to participating in the ASALGP project.
“From the individual’s point of view, such assignments are an opportunity to apply expertise and experience in a new environment and to work in different systems,” he said. “It is probably one of the best forms of professional development available to experienced managers.
“The Australian Council also benefits from the improved experience of its manager and from specific ideas and initiatives, which may be applicable locally.”
