Reimagining how councils deliver: citizen-centric, AI-enabled, productive
Proudly supported by
NSW councils are operating in a new era defined by financial constraint, heightened cyber risk, AI disruption and stronger transparency requirements. Audit findings highlight ongoing sustainability concerns, infrastructure investment gaps and significant cyber control deficiencies, while AI is rapidly moving from experimentation to enterprise-wide impact. At the same time, governance reforms and community expectations are raising the bar for trust, service quality and digital accessibility. The sector is no longer asking whether to transform, but how to do so responsibly, affordably and at scale.
This event will bring together ICT, digital, governance and executive leaders to unpack practical responses to these pressures and what is needed to achieve a more connected Government 3.0 model. Through real-world case studies, deep dives into AI governance and cyber resilience, and candid discussions on financial sustainability and workforce capability, the program will focus on translating strategy into measurable outcomes. Attendees will gain insight into how peers are strengthening governance, embedding risk-aware innovation and demonstrating value to councils and communities alike.
The decisions made in the next 12–18 months will shape your council’s financial resilience, cyber posture and community trust for years to come. Join the leaders who are setting the benchmark — and ensure your council is not left reacting, but leading.
Sign up or Log in to Public Sector Network to register for this event
Register now
Lead the transformation of financial and operational efficiency through technology and innovation:
Shape a future-ready workforce and cultivate a culture of innovation within local councils:
Lead the charge in transforming local government operations through technology:
Dr. Tom Gao
Chief Information Officer, City of Sydney
Steven Head
General Manager, Hornsby Shire Council
Ingrid McAlpin
Chief Digital & Information Officer, Wollongong City Council
Therese Cole
Chief Executive Officer, North Sydney Council
Melissa Attia
Deputy General Manager, Cumberland City Council
Meredith Wallace
General Manager, Bayside Council
Richard Sheridan
Director, City Performance, Bayside Council
With budget pressures ranked as the top concern in 2025, this event is designed to help you identify smarter, more sustainable ways to manage resources, stretch funding, and future-proof your council’s finances.
Acquire insights and strategies to address pressing challenges facing local government, including workforce management, customer experience, technology, and service design.
Doing more with less is the new normal. Learn how other councils are using digital tools, data, and streamlined processes to drive meaningful change with limited budgets.
Financial stress isn’t unique to your council. This is a rare chance to connect with peers facing the same pressures and walk away with practical, proven ideas you can apply immediately.
Becoming a partner at the Local Government Focus Day New South Wales offers unique opportunities to connect with decision-makers, showcase innovative solutions, and align with transformative public sector goals. As a partner, you’ll have access to influential government leaders, providing a valuable platform to demonstrate your expertise and contribute to critical conversations on public sector modernisation.
With a focus on New South Wales’ specific needs, partnership enables you to collaborate directly with key players, co-develop solutions for the state’s challenges, and reinforce your commitment to advancing government services in impactful ways.
To better understand the priorities, challenges, and emerging trends facing local governments across New South Wales, we surveyed attendees at the 2025 Local Government Focus Day. The polling results offer valuable insights into the current state of play, from digital readiness and financial pressures to workforce capability and service delivery. These findings highlight the shared issues councils are grappling with and provide a clear direction for where support, innovation, and collaboration are most needed.
