The Australian Centre of Excellence for Local Government (ACELG) has announced scholarship recipients for the inaugural Excellence in Local Government Leadership program, to be held in Canberra later this month.
The program is a joint venture between ACELG and the Australia and New Zealand School of Government (ANZSOG).
Three senior employees from South Australian Councils were selected to receive scholarships.
They are Salisbury Council Director Corporate Development Jane Trotter, City of Unley Deputy Chief Executive Officer Christine Umapathysivam and Campbelltown City Council Chief Executive Officer Paul Di Iulio.
These prestigious scholarships were awarded as part of competitive selection process. Jane Trotter and Christine Umapathysivam received special Commonwealth scholarships funded as part of the 2010 Year of Women in Local Government.
At a reception hosted by Adelaide City Council, Deputy Lord Mayor David Plumridge congratulated the trio.
He welcomed the new national leadership program and was extremely pleased to see such strong representation from South Australia.
ACELG Director, Professor Graham Sansom joined the Deputy Lord Mayor in congratulating the scholarship winners.
He said that the ACELG-ANZSOG program would provide a unique opportunity for senior Local Government leaders from all parts of Australia – mayors, councillors and managers – to examine in detail the ‘real world’ issues faced by councils and communities.
"This is a truly world class program based on the latest research but with a practical focus.
"It will feature a team of internationally recognized presenters led by ANZSOG Professor Mark Evans and Professor Gerry Stoker, a former senior adviser to the UK government on Local Government reform."
Professor Evans also attended the reception in Adelaide andwas delighted to be involved in such an important new venture for Australian Local Government.
"This program breaks new ground. It will operate as a ‘think tank’ and address current problems in Local Government identified by the participants themselves, ensuring that is delivers real public value."