The important role of South Australian councils in managing local roads and community infrastructure was front and centre at the LGA Roads and Works Conference held late last month.
The event, held in Hahndorf, concluded on Friday 30 August and attracted more than 300 delegates, including elected members, industry leaders, and council infrastructure professionals, all gathering to discuss the latest innovations and initiatives in roads and infrastructure.
South Australian councils manage 76 per cent of the state’s road network and invest around 40 per cent of their annual budget on essential infrastructure, like roads, footpaths, parks, sports facilities, swimming centres to support liveability, road safety, wellbeing and connection.
This year’s conference focused on the challenges and opportunities presented by rapidly expanding regional areas and housing supply, emphasising the need for well-planned infrastructure to support sustainable growth.
LGA President, Mayor Dean Johnson remarked on the importance of this annual event, particularly in the context of South Australia’s sharp focus on housing.
“Across South Australian communities, councils are at the forefront of supporting the development of new homes by leading major land rezoning efforts, investing in redevelopments, and planning for future growth areas,” Mayor Johnson said.
“But it’s essential to recognise that infrastructure is the backbone of these developments.
“Building thousands of new homes requires significant investments in local infrastructure – roads, water supply, parks – and councils are eager to collaborate to ensure we’re future-proofing our suburbs and towns.”
Other key areas of focus at the conference included strategies for infrastructure planning, attracting and retaining a skilled workforce, emergency management and reducing emissions in road and footpath construction.
The event featured a series of keynote addresses, presentations from industry suppliers, panel discussions, and insights from councils across the state, all aimed at enhancing the management and development of South Australia’s roads and local community infrastructure.
The LGA’s Roads and Works Conference has been a key event in South Australia for more than 30 years, bringing together major suppliers, experts and council staff working in infrastructure management, civil works, and engineering.
