Gatton Shire’s Deputy Mayor, Councillor Janice Holstein, recently graduated from a Diploma in Local Government Administration course. Provided by the Local Government Association of Queensland, the course is specifically designed for Local Government employees and elected members.
Gatton Shire is located in the Lockyer Valley of South East Queensland, approximately 90 kilometres west of Brisbane. Mayor Holstein was the first Gatton Shire Councillor to undertake the formal study, which was a pilot program. Several other Gatton employees have since undertaken the study.
The course was delivered over a six month period for candidates who met the selection criteria. All participants undertake a range of projects and tasks that reflect issues, development and legislation for Local Government.
“As a result of this course, I feel much more confident about protocols, legislation and best practice,” Councillor Holstein said. “I thoroughly recommend this course to any employee who wants to be skilled up about our industry.
“The opportunity to learn and be refreshed on some aspects of the work, along with the chance to network with others gave me a chance to review the way things are done for me and Council. You are never too old to learn. This was an opportunity to gain knowledge from others and to share experience and best practice.”
Councillor Holstein has now been accepted into university to continue her studies. “I had never even thought of studies at university until this course was available,” she said. “Now I am keen and want to gain skills that will enable me to better understand and support the community that I serve.”
LGAQ designs and delivers programs for all Queensland Councils.
As an industry that employs over 36,000 people in more than 400 occupations, LGAQ strongly supports education, training and employability for all staff and elected members.
“Our training services are designed to be pragmatic and relevant, and to recognise the wealth of experience in our industry,” said LGAQ Acting Executive Director, Greg Hoffman. “We will continue to deliver a range of programs that support our Council members in developing their skills and confidence in a range of matters.
“In partnership with Queensland University of Technology, the graduates can claim credits towards further studies for a degree.”
For further information on the Diploma in Local Government Administration course email Training@lgaq.asn.au or visit the LGAQ website for a list of available jobs.
