PLACE is an exciting program designed to empower council directors and senior managers. It offers a unique opportunity to enhance strategic thinking, long-term planning, and solution-focused skills by tackling real-world challenges faced by other NSW councils. Participants will broaden their horizons beyond their own Local Government Area through hands-on learning and collaboration with senior leaders across the sector.

How does it work?

Individuals will register their interest in participating in the PLACE program, and will be allocated into teams of three or four. Team assignments will ensure a mix of regional and metro councils, and balance seniority and experience across all participants. Each team member can be supported by their General Manager, as their mentor, and the team will collectively be supported by a PLACE Coach, an experienced senior leader from the sector (usually a retired General Manager)

The teams are tasked with proposing solutions to a real-world challenge faced by another council, known as the Host Council. The Host Council plays a crucial role by sharing their challenge and collaborating with the teams, providing valuable context and insights into their LGA to aid in developing effective solutions.

Why is it important?

Councils across NSW face a variety of challenges as they strive to deliver more services to their communities. These challenges are often complex and multifaceted, influenced by history, community sentiment, and financial considerations. By participating in PLACE, local government professionals can share knowledge and strategies, fostering a collaborative environment that benefits everyone involved.

Commitment and Timeline

The program commences on 22 September 2026. The will also be an initial meeting will introduce team members and their PLACE Coach.  They will then be introduced to the challenge and have time to explore and analyse the challenge before engaging with the Host Council to further understand the unique circumstances of the challenge.  There will be online sessions to support additional learning and exposure to key stakeholders connected to the challenge, before teams are left to manage their own time and project. The written submissions are due Friday, 30 April 2027.  A presentation of their submission will be Tuesday, 11 May to the Host Council, PLACE Coaches and other members of the assessment panel.

Allowing a significant amount of time, this period requires commitment to ensure high-quality submissions that can be presented to senior leaders and elected members. Teams have the flexibility to manage their own timelines and workflows, brainstorming options, consulting with stakeholders, and rigorously testing their ideas to develop tailored, informed, and realistic solutions.