2026 Governance Scholarship

The 2026 Governance Conference is the must-attend event for professionals driving strong governance across NSW councils.

Over three dynamic days, the conference brings together sector leaders to explore key challenges, uncover new opportunities, and shape the future of local government. Featuring inspiring keynotes, real-world case studies, and thought-provoking panels. 

We recognise that some individuals and councils may find it difficult to participate in the conference due to limited resources and/or long travel distances.

As part of the Association's commitment to provide members with professional development that is accessible and affordable, we are offering two scholarships to help promote participation and reduce barriers for members wishing to attend.

First Time Attendee Scholarship

The scholarship is offered to members who are employed in governance wishing to attend the Governance Conference for the first time.

The scholarship covers full conference registration fee, plus three nights' accommodation.

Interested members are invited to complete the online application form. Applicants will be notified within the timeframe outlined in the Key Dates.

The scholarship recipient is responsible for travel expenses to attend the conference.

Rural Council Scholarship

The scholarship is offered to members who are employed in governance at a Rural Council*.

The scholarship covers the full conference registration fee, plus three nights' accommodation.

Interested members are invited to complete the online application form. Applicants will be notified within the timeframe outlined in the Key Dates.

The scholarship recipient is responsible for travel expenses to attend the conference.

* Rural Council as determined by the OLG Group numbers 8, 9, 10 or 11.

Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Be a member of LG Professionals, NSW
• Be employed (not on a contract) at a NSW Council

In addition, members applying for the First Time Attendee Scholarship must have never attended an LG Professionals, NSW Governance Conference before.

Scholarship terms and conditions

Notification

If you applied for the scholarship, please DO NOT register separately for the Governance Conference until you are notified that you did not receive the scholarship.

You will be advised prior to early bird closing if you have been successful in your nomination. No refunds will be issued to those that decide to register on their own before hearing if they received a scholarship.

Conference Attendance

Successful scholarship recipients will be asked to capture their experience at the conference and share photos via LinkedIn.

In addition, a post conference report in word or video format will be required and shared with our members. 

Key Dates

Conference Dates: 11 - 13 March 2026

Awarded To:

Tamar Burns, Governance Advisor, Sutherland Shire Council

Scholarship Recipients