Local Government Focus Day South Australia
Smart and Creative Thinking: Innovating to Enable Financial Resilience in Local Government
Event overview
South Australia’s local governments are pivotal in shaping the daily lives of citizens, directly influencing their quality of life through essential services, infrastructure, and community programs. As the most connected tier of government, they are uniquely positioned to respond swiftly to local needs and drive meaningful change.
Now, more than ever, delivering exceptional services is vital for ensuring sustainable growth and long-term success. Faced with financial pressures, rapid technological change, and the need to empower their workforce, local governments must take bold steps to meet these evolving demands. By embracing innovation and fostering collaboration, councils are not only reimagining service delivery but also creating more resilient and future-ready workforces. Through leveraging cutting-edge technologies and enhancing operational efficiency, they are focused on providing improved services that uplift both employees and the community at large.
Join us at the 2025 Local Government Focus Day, part of the Public Sector Network’s Government Innovation Week South Australia, supported by the Government of South Australia. This event will bring together local government leaders to solve key challenges and share practical strategies. With thought-provoking sessions, masterclasses, and invaluable networking, it offers a unique opportunity to explore how councils are building resilient, vibrant, and sustainable communities—ready to thrive in the years ahead.
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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
Featured speakers
Tony Harrison
Chief Executive Officer, City of Marion
Heather Barclay
Chief Executive Officer, Rural City of Murray Bridge
Jayne Emerson
Director, Business Transformation, City of Salisbury
Jodie Summer
Director Corporate Services, District Council of Yankalilla
Why attend?
Exploring Essential Tools and Technologies
Participate in masterclasses that provide critical tools, technologies, and mindsets necessary for developing a scalable local government of the future.
Gaining Insights on Key Challenges
Acquire insights and strategies to address pressing challenges facing South Australia’s local government, including workforce management, customer experience, technology, and service design.
Connecting with Executive Leaders
Engage directly with executive leaders within South Australia's local government sector to gain valuable perspectives and knowledge.
Networking Opportunities
Build connections and network with local government leaders, industry experts, and peers from across South Australia to foster collaboration and share best practices.
Vendors boost your presence
Partnering with the Public Sector Network offers a unique opportunity to elevate your presence in the public sector. By aligning with us, you can effectively connect with key decision-makers and showcase your innovative solutions to the challenges facing local governments today.
- Engage with Key Decision-Makers: Connect directly with influential leaders and decision-makers from South Australia’s local governments, ensuring your solutions reach those who need them most.
- Showcase Innovative Solutions: Present your cutting-edge technologies and services in a highly relevant context, addressing pressing challenges such as financial sustainability, operational efficiency, and building workforce.
- Build Valuable Relationships: Network with a targeted audience of public sector professionals and potential clients, creating opportunities for strategic partnerships and new business ventures.
- Enhance Brand Visibility: Position your company as a thought leader and a key player in local government innovation, gaining significant exposure and credibility within the public sector community.