Where are you at?
Six months into your term as a local government councillor in NSW, you’ve probably realised there’s more to this role than you first expected. Council meetings, governance frameworks, land use planning, and community expectations—it’s a lot to juggle. Plus all those emails, extra committments and papers to read!
That’s why we created
Locale Leaders, a six-month group coaching and leadership program for councillors in NSW who want to make a real impact, without burning out.
Still wondering if it’s right for you? Here are ten compelling reasons to enrol:
Understanding your ‘why’ as a councillor helps you stay focused, especially when facing tough decisions or political pressures. WHilst you might have been clear about this at the campaign stage, it can be easy to lose connection with your purpose once in the hum-drum of elected life. Locale Leaders helps you articulate your actionable purpose and align your leadership with your core values as a councillor and importantly, within the context of your civic roles and responsibilities.
Becoming a local councillor is a steep learning curve and for some, it can take years to be effective and impactful in the role. Rather than spending years figuring things out on your own, we support you to fast-track your understanding of council processes, good governance, and how to deliver outcomes with the bureaucracy . Avoid the “I wish I had known that earlier” moments and start leading with impact now.
Council meetings can be a strange for newcomers. They are structured and formal and completely different from other business or community meetings you've been involved in before. It can be easy to lose your way (and your voice!) with motions and amendments flying around the Chamber. Our program teaches you how to participate effectively—how to prepare, communicate persuasively, and navigate meeting rules so your voice is heard.
Many councillors experience imposter syndrome when they step into the role, wondering if they’re truly equipped for the role. You may be feeling a like a fish out of water, trying to figure out how to apply what you know to the deliver the change you want to see in your community. We support you to build confidence, step into your leadership with integrity, and shake off self-doubt.
Social media can be a powerful tool as an elected representative, but it also comes with risks. We also know from our recent
Political Wellbeing Summit that digital safety is the number one detractor from a councillor’s performance and wellbeing. You will learn how to craft a purposeful social media strategy that engages your community while protecting your sanity and wellbeing.
Disagreements and differences of opinion are part of local government, but how you handle them makes all the difference. Unproductive conflict and poor relationships can chip away at your morale and motivation. Learn strategies for collaborating with other councillors, working effectively with the General Manager, and fostering healthy council culture—even when tensions run high.
Understanding local government planning and decision making frameworks is key to being an effective councillor. This includes the integrated planning and reporting framework and as well as how decisions are made, and then implemented, at Council meetings. Locale Leaders breaks down complex processes into clear, actionable knowledge, giving you the tools to influence decisions and advocate for your community.
The
pressures of political leadership can take a toll on your wellbeing and mental health as a local government leader. You do not want to get caught in the trap of chronic stress, as this is ultimately a recipe for burnout. Our program integrates mindset and stress management strategies to help you develop resilience, manage stress, and sustain your leadership over the long term.
You’re not in this alone. There a lots of councillors in the same boat as you and wanting to learn together.
Locale Leaders brings together a community of like-minded councillors from different councils across NSW. Through peer learning and networking, you’ll gain valuable insights and build lasting connections.
This isn’t just another one-off training session. Over six months, you’ll get access to live coaching from three expert facilitators, self-paced learning, exclusive resources, and ongoing mentorship—all designed to support you throughout your term.
Meet Emma, Cinnamon and Anna - who will support you in the Locale Leaders program.
We’re passionate about helping elected leaders lead ethically, mindfully and effectively for their communities. Together we bring decades of experience in the local government and health industries, a stack of credentials plus a whole lot of heart!
Importantly, we care deeply about your success as a local councillor.
Invest in your leadership today and secure your spot in the
Locale Leaders program at the early bird price of $2,950 (+GST). After 1 June, the price increases to $3,500.
Need flexibility? You can opt for part-payment this financial year to take advantage of council professional development budgets.
Spots are limited, so don’t wait!
