Local Government Focus Day South Australia

Tue 16 Jun 2026

View event details

9:30AM

Registration & Coffee

9:30 AM - 10:00 AM (30 mins)

10:00AM

Opening from Public Sector Network

10:00 AM - 10:10 AM (10 mins)

10:10AM

Welcome from the Chair and Scene Setter

10:10 AM - 10:20 AM (10 mins)

10:20AM

Case Study

Local–State Partnerships That Actually Work

10:20 AM - 10:40 AM (20 mins)

Heather Barclay Chief Executive Officer, Rural City of Murray Bridge

A practical case study on how the Rural City of Murray Bridge has moved beyond transactional funding arrangements to build genuine Local–State partnerships that deliver faster infrastructure, better services, and stronger community outcomes. The session explores governance models, trust-building at executive level, and how strategic, data-led planning has positioned Council as a partner of choice for State government in a high-growth regional context.

10:40AM

Keynote

Reimagining Service Delivery Through AI and Automation

10:40 AM - 11:00 AM (20 mins)

Practical use cases for improving efficiency, streamlining processes, and enhancing customer experiences

11:00AM

Panel discussion

AI and Digital Transformation: Opportunities and Challenges

11:00 AM - 11:30 AM (30 mins)

Dionne Collins Director Community Development, City of Port Adelaide Enfield

Panel of experts discussing real-world applications of AI, data analytics, and digital tools in council operations.

How AI and digital tools can enhance operational efficiency, creativity, and service delivery in councils.
The impact of technological innovation on workforce culture, engagement, and upskilling.
Key risks and strategies for managing cybersecurity, compliance, and change during digital transformation.

11:30AM

Brunch & Networking

11:30 AM - 12:00 PM (30 mins)

12:00PM

Roundtables

Roundtable Discussions

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM (60 mins)

1:00PM

Future-Ready Infrastructure and Digital Platforms

1:00 PM - 1:20 PM (20 mins)

Building scalable, secure systems to support long-term growth and resilience.

1:20PM

Keynote

Beyond Modernisation: Accelerating Digital Transformation in Local Government

1:20 PM - 1:40 PM (20 mins)

Implementing AI tools and modern digital platforms, alongside cloud migration and cybersecurity upgrades.
Upskilling staff, embedding agile practices, and fostering a digital-first culture to support innovation.
Driving transformation initiatives that are reshaping council operations for more efficient, responsive, and forward-thinking service delivery.

1:40PM

Panel discussion

Leading Under Pressure: Navigating the Challenges of Modern Local Government

1:40 PM - 2:15 PM (35 mins)

This panel explores the complex challenges facing local councils today. Drawing on insights from CEOs the discussion will highlight how to collaborate under pressure, and practical strategies for maintaining performance, trust, and community impact.

Managing budget constraints, cost shifting, and resource pressures
Balancing rising community expectations with operational realities
Navigating reform and exploring, strategies for collaboration
Maintaining performance, trust, and community impact in challenging environments

Tony Harrison

Chief Executive Officer, City of Marion

Darren Starr

Chief Executive Officer, Wakefield Regional Council

Paul Della

General Manager Corporate and Compliance, City of West Torrens

2:15PM