Often, the relationship between local government and other tiers of government can be tense.  This panel will explore the relationship between council and other levels of government, how to best maximise engagement with higher levels of government, maintaining relationships with key stakeholders and looking at ways councils can be heard on the big issues that affect their communities. 

Chris Eddy and Kathryn Arndt will moderate a Q&A style discussion with a panel comprising leaders in this space from across Australia and the UK.

This panel event will take place online via Zoom. 

Panellists for this discussion include:

• Sam Plum, Chief Executive, Westmorland and Furness Council, England
• Cliff Eberly, Program Director - Resilient People and Places, Centre for Policy Development, Australia
• Johnathan Carr West, Chief Executive, LGiU

Key areas of discussion will include: 

• Community perceptions about the roles and responsibilities of each level of government
• Exploring the key elements of an effective working relationship with government 
• How to best maximise influence with other levels of government
• Tools and strategies to maintain relationships with key stakeholders
• Being heard and being an effective advocate for community