Western Australia’s local governments continue to navigate the challenge of delivering more with less. As frontline service providers, councils are balancing growing community expectations, tightening budgets, and the demands of maintaining ageing infrastructure, all while striving to modernise operations and strengthen organisational resilience.
Polling from the 2025 Local Government Focus Day revealed that while many councils see the transformative potential of AI, most are still in the early stages of exploring its application. Budget sustainability remains the top concern, alongside the need to become more data-driven, optimise processes, and equip staff with the skills required for a rapidly evolving service landscape.
In 2026, the imperative to rethink how local governments deliver services, manage assets, and engage communities has never been greater. By embracing innovation, digital tools, and collaborative partnerships, councils can create smarter, more efficient, and financially sustainable pathways forward.
Join us at the 2026 Local Government Focus Day, part of Public Sector Network’s Government Innovation Week Western Australia, to hear real-world strategies and success stories from councils across the state. This action-oriented event will bring together local and state leaders to share practical insights on maximising resources, driving operational efficiency, and harnessing technology — including AI — to build stronger, future-ready communities.
Sign up or Log in to Public Sector Network to register for this event
Are you a solution provider? Click here
Jonas Petersen
Chief Digital Officer, Department of the Premier and Cabinet, WA
Chief Executive Officer & Chair, City of Vincent & Australian Urban Design Research Centre
Miriam Sanchez Blanco
Chief Technology Officer (CTO), City of Stirling
Bimsara Pathirathna
Chief Financial Officer, City of Wanneroo
Alyce Higgins
Manager Communications and Engagement, City of Swan
Joel Hurst
Manager IT, Systems and Strategy, City of Fremantle
Well put together event. Professional, well attended and good representation across local government
Registration is free for government