Australia's National Local Government Newspaper Online

Indigenous Councillor workshops establish support networks

In August, the Western Australian Department of Local Government and Regional Development (DLGRD) held a three day workshop for Indigenous Councillors. Some 20 Councillors from across Western Australia attended the workshop, which was the second the department has conducted this year.

Presenters gave an insight into Local Government governance issues, finance, future planning and technical skills. It was an excellent opportunity for Indigenous Councillors to get to know each other and establish support mechanisms.

AHA Consulting's Managing Director, Joel Levin, facilitated the event. He led the group through a number activities to visually communicate key points.

DLGRD's Project Manager, Vanessa Elliot, said it was a colourful, vibrant and effective way to communicate legislation and governance issues.

"One of the activities involved the group inventing their own game," she said. "This prompted participants to establish rules and governance, which is relevant to their everyday roles."

Vanessa Elliot said the response to the workshops was overwhelmingly positive, with 86 per cent of feedback surveys scoring the event seven out of seven.

"The department and participants are now hoping to make the workshop an annual event," she said. "In the mean time, the department will continue to provide support and advice to Indigenous Councillors through on site visits by request."

For further information contact Vanessa Elliot on (08) 9217 1481.

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