Local Government conferences with a national reach are fairly rare. Organised by the Centre for Local Government at the University of New England, this conference is unusual. Titled ‘The Cutting-edge of Change – Shaping Local Government for the 21st Century’, the conference is to be held in Armidale, NSW from 14 – 17 February 2002 – and from reviewing the papers submitted it is clear that Local Government is busy shaping itself.
Speakers come from a wide range of backgrounds both within and outside Local Government, providing a wide diversity of views. Offerings look right across Australia and internationally to examine how Local Government is approaching current issues and preparing for the challenges ahead.
With topics as diverse as globalisation and volunteerism, the conference showcases innovative practice and current thinking at local, regional, state and national levels. It will also deal with broader matters affecting the sector such as innovations in intergovernmental relationships and financing.
According to the organisers, key features of the conference are its practical focus (refreshing for a University organised conference) and the extensive use of workshop sessions to allow delegates to explore issues in more depth than is usually possible.
The conference web site provides full information about the conference and about the New England tablelands, which are at their best during this late summer period. Go to www.une.edu.au/clg, and then follow the link to the conference home page. With something to offer all parts of the Local Government sector, this conference is well worth a look!
* Copy supplied by UNE
