Local Government’s place in the community as leaders in service delivery, economic development and sustainable practice has never been more relevant or more important. Reflecting this, the theme for the 2009 congress, to be held in Darwin from 24 to 27 May, is ‘Local Government: Creating our future…messages with solutions’.
Keynote presenters include Natasha Stott Despoja, former leader of the Australian Democrats; Bernard Salt, renowned commentator and advisor on consumer, culture and demographic trends; Elliot McAdam, former Northern Territory Minister for Local Government; Peter Sheahan, Australia’s expert in workforce trends and generational change; and Trisha Broadbridge, 2004 Tsunami survivor and 2006 Young Australian of the Year.
In keeping with the congress streams – culture, country and earth – the congress has again attracted high calibre Local Government presenters who will explore how we can go about creating our future in one of Australia’s most beautiful and cultural destinations.
Culture
As community leaders, Local Government is at the forefront of human services, economic development and community engagement.
Local experts will explore the giant steps the sector has taken to:
- protect and enhance our national and
multinational cultures - provide opportunities for people to
reach their potential - improve leadership, community
engagement and reconcilitation - generate community renewal and
create new villages.
Country
Local Government is ideally placed to influence and shape the local economy by helping communities build capacity and promote community cohesion.
The congress will explore best practice examples of how councils are finding new ways of doing business to ensure ongoing survival of our communities by:
- creating local identities and sense of
place - attraction and tourism
- new innovation for increasing
economic development.
Earth
Many Australian Local Governments are leading the way in creating and improving the world environment through innovative and sustainable practices. Congress delegates can draw off the experience and knowledge imparted by leading authorities and their peers in the areas of:
- shared responsibility
- environmental sustainability
- climate change
- the impact of mining and renewable
energy.
The LGMA Congress and Business Expo is widely regarded as Australia’s leading forum for Local Government professionals.
The associated panel session and workshops, networking opportunities, business expo and social activities provide added value to a program that all Local Government officers and elected officials cannot afford to miss.
Register before 10 April to receive the early bird discount. Download a full program and registration brochure, or register online at www.lgma.org.au/nationalcongress
