Local Government Focus Day Queensland
Reimagining How Councils Deliver: Citizen-Centric, AI-Enabled and Future-Ready
8 Oct 2026
Event overview
Queensland local government is entering a period of major change, with councils under pressure to improve productivity, accelerate housing and infrastructure delivery, strengthen cyber resilience, and prepare communities for rapid population growth and Brisbane 2032. At the centre of this shift is the new South East Queensland Digital Plan — a long-term regional approach focused on smarter services, shared digital infrastructure, improved connectivity, AI adoption, data sharing, and reducing red tape across councils.
The Queensland Local Government Focus Day 2026 will explore how councils are responding to these challenges through practical technology, stronger leadership, and more connected ways of working. The program will bring together local government executives, technology leaders, and transformation teams to discuss AI and automation, digital identity, cyber resilience, smarter infrastructure, workforce capability, and Brisbane 2032 readiness. Sessions will focus on real operational priorities facing councils today — from planning and customer service to resilience, governance, and community trust.
Join senior council leaders and industry experts to explore practical strategies, real-world case studies, and future-focused ideas shaping the next generation of local government across Queensland.
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Earn CPD credit at this event
Who will be there?
Lead the transformation of financial and operational efficiency through technology and innovation:
- Utilise AI and automation to streamline financial processes, optimising resource allocation and reducing administrative burdens
- Implement digital platforms that enhance transparency, accountability, and service delivery across all departments
- Equip teams with the tools and training to drive financial sustainability while meeting the growing demands of citizens and stakeholders
Shape a future-ready workforce and cultivate a culture of innovation within local councils:
- Foster an environment where employees are empowered to adopt new technologies and embrace creativity, driving both engagement and productivity
- Lead with vision by encouraging innovation in service delivery and developing strategies to manage the risks and opportunities of digital transformation
- Elevate workplace culture by ensuring that technological advancements support employee well-being and align with the strategic goals of the organisation
Lead the charge in transforming local government operations through technology:
- Drive the adoption of AI and automation to streamline financial operations, reducing costs and increasing efficiency
- Implement cutting-edge digital platforms to enhance service delivery and ensure seamless citizen interactions
- Strengthen transparency and accountability through advanced tech tools, improving public trust and government performance
2025 Featured speakers
Dave Burns
Chief Information Officer, Sunshine Coast Council
Mark Pitt
Chief Executive Officer, South Burnett Regional Council
Mark Hannan
Chief Technology Officer, City of Gold Coast
Cath Drinkwater
General Manager Strategy, Performance and Transformation, City of Gold Coast
Bridget Luke
Acting General Manager, Transport Planning and Operations, Brisbane City Council
Annie Lawrence
Head of Industry Advancement, Economic Development, City of Moreton Bay
Taniqua Smith
Procurement Manager, City of Moreton Bay
Matt Pascoe
ICT Digital Services Manager, Ipswich City Council
Why attend?
AI-Powered Service Delivery in Action Across Queensland Councils
Hear how councils across Queensland are using AI, automation, and digital tools to improve services and reduce operational pressure
Building Stronger Cyber Resilience and Digital Trust in Local Government
Learn practical strategies for strengthening cyber resilience, data sharing, and digital trust across council operations
Preparing Councils for Growth, Infrastructure Pressure, and Brisbane 2032
Explore how councils are preparing for housing growth, infrastructure demand, and Brisbane 2032 readiness
Connect, Collaborate, and Learn from Leading Local Government Peers
Connect with local government leaders, CIOs, and transformation executives tackling similar workforce, funding, and service delivery challenges
Vendors, boost your presence
Becoming a partner at the Local Government Focus Day Queensland 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 Queensland’s 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.