Governance 101 is an essential introduction to governance in Western Australian local government, designed to equip participants with the foundational knowledge required to effectively support governance processes and decision-making.
The course provides a practical overview of how governance operates within local government, covering legislative obligations, roles and responsibilities, decision-making processes, and accountability frameworks.
Participants will gain a clear understanding of how governance supports transparency, compliance, and effective organisational leadership. The course also explores emerging governance challenges and best practices to help councils maintain strong governance standards.
Whether you are new to a governance role or seeking to strengthen your understanding of local government governance frameworks, this course provides a structured and practical foundation.
Governance 101 is delivered online across an eight-week program, with live training sessions held every Tuesday at 10:00am (AWST) via Microsoft Teams. Each session runs for approximately 1 to 2 hours, with plenty of time for Q&A and discussion.
Participants will gain access to a secure online learning portal, where they can:
- Access recordings of all sessions (available on-demand for 12 months)
- Download a toolbox of practical resources — including templates, checklists, and examples
- Engage with fellow participants through an online discussion forum
- Submit questions, participate in Q&A, and network with peers from other councils
In addition, participants receive three hours of complimentary one-on-one mentoring to use at any time within 12 months of completing the course — perfect for clarifying issues or getting tailored guidance on real-world challenges.
By the end of the Governance 101 course, participants will understand the key governance principles and processes that underpin effective local government operations, including:
- The structure and role of local government in Western Australia
- The legislative framework governing local government operations
- Governance roles and responsibilities within councils
- Decision-making processes and meeting procedures
- Financial management and accountability obligations
- Ethical conduct and integrity in public sector roles
- Community engagement and public transparency
- Risk management and compliance responsibilities
- Emerging governance issues and best practice approaches
Participants will gain practical insight into how governance supports effective leadership, compliance, and public confidence in local government.
Governance 101 is designed for individuals who are new to governance roles within local government or seeking to develop a stronger understanding of governance frameworks.
This course is particularly suitable for:
- Entry-level governance officers
- Governance and compliance staff
- Managers new to local government
- Executive assistants or administration staff supporting council and committee processes
- Local government professionals seeking a stronger understanding of governance responsibilities
The course provides a strong foundation for individuals looking to build a career in governance or strengthen their ability to support effective governance within their organisation.
