The research and training work undertaken at the University of Technology Sydney by the Australian Centre of Excellence for Local Government (ACELG) and the Centre for Local government (UTS:CLG) includes topic areas designed to develop staff capability – for specialists and generalists.
The research is free to use, has national relevance and often includes case studies or toolkits that can be adapted within councils to support officers in their roles. Training can also be provided to support the integration of research into council processes.
A recent initiative is ‘Building Social Cohesion in our Communities: An online resource’ developed with the Australian Human Rights Commission to provide local government with a practical approach to develop strong, socially cohesive communities.
This interactive online resource features case studies from local government, tips and templates for implementing good practice at the local level and links to further resources. A two-day seminar has been developed based on this resource and how it can link to organisational strategy based on real life situations.
In November UTS:CLG will run ‘Enhanced Local Government Service Delivery’ in rural Victoria supported by the Victorian Government who have funded 40 part-scholarships (up to 55%) of the fee. Scholarship applications are due by 20 October via kath.gosden@delwp.vic.gov.au
Other recent Centre work that can be adapted by staff include topics such as Creative Councils; Service Delivery Reviews; Community Chef; Food safety strategy templates; Climate change and Attraction and Retention of CEOs and Senior Staff. Visit www.acelg.org.au
*Copy supplied by UTS:CLG
