While Local Government staff must have training and experience to match the requirements of their job, elected members who are charged with the responsibility of making policy decisions may come to Council without any particular qualifications.
The myriad of requirements of modern Local Government and rapid changes mean that many, even those with long experience in Local Government, can find themselves on a steep learning curve. To assist in this regard, the Western Australian Municipal Association’s Municipal Training provides an Elected Member Professional Development Program.
Municipal Training offers elected members module based training promoting quality, informed, professional decision making. Modules include Legal Responsibilities of Elected Members, Land Use Planning, CEO Performance Reviews, Financial Issues in Local Government, Change Management, and Customer Service and Complaints Handling.
“Training gives elected members greater confidence, greater control over the affairs of their Municipality and better value for ratepayers and other stakeholders in Local Government,” said Greg Maybury, Marketing Manager Municipal Training.
“Trainers and presenters include people with vast experience of Local Government. They create an interesting and enjoyable teaching environment where members get the chance to network with other Councillors and share their experience and expertise.”
Regular sessions are conducted in Perth and throughout regional Western Australia. Municipal Training is currently offering a post budget special, bringing the Elected Member Development Program directly to Council. Councils can opt for a one day, three day or seven day program.
“Previous participants have often been pleasantly surprised at how much the courses have made their task easier and their Councils more effective,” Greg said.
For further information contact Greg Maybury, telephone (08) 9321 5092 or email: gmaybury@wama.wa.gov.au
