INVITATION TO DELEGATES

Achieving sustainable communities across NSW is a significant and complex challenge that we are all facing. A key issue is how we can collectively manage diverse issues, priorities and expectations to deliver sustainable development at a local level.

I would like to welcome you to Integrating Sustainability In Local Government: What are the implications for governance, strategy and practice? This Symposium, hosted by the NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change in partnership with the Environmental Trust, provides an opportunity to focus on strategies and actions to meet the challenge of delivering an integrated approach to sustainability issues in local government, for local communities.

Over two full days, delegates will have opportunity to:

hear from international, national and local speakers about how integrated management planning and reporting at a local government level can help respond to growing sustainability pressures and priorities

network and catch up with colleagues from local and state government, and organisations that work closely with councils

explore how the use of innovation, integration, change management and good governance practices can help tackle the diverse range of sustainability issues through case studies, poster presentations and panel discussions

develop improved skills and practice in project planning and management, stakeholder engagement, education, communication and project evaluation at skills building workshops

share your experience and connect with other senior council officers through interactive sessions

enjoy the insights of HG Nelson in the wrap up on day 1

The Symposium is designed around two key themes: Day 1 - Creating a Culture of Sustainability and Day 2 - Achieving Sustainability Outcomes. Over the two days, delegates will be able to explore these through thought provoking presentations and discussion that aims to deliver an integrated approach to sustainability. Interactive sessions will help participants to clarify the key challenges and implications for their programs and practices.

I believe that the Symposium offers a very useful opportunity to engage with key leaders and practitioners who are engaged in delivering programs designed to tackle the range of sustainability challenges we face in NSW. I encourage you to consider participating in this event.

Bernard Carlon
Divisional Director, Sustainability Programs Division
NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change