The pressures on local government leaders have never been greater. Financial constraints, increasing demand for services, and the need for systemic transformation are all converging to create an incredibly challenging environment. As we head towards the end of the year, it’s clear that councils across the country are feeling the strain.
At the Leadership Centre, we recognise the immense responsibility that comes with leading through such times. Many of you are working under conditions that are far from ideal, often balancing competing priorities and managing significant uncertainty. It’s vital to acknowledge the impact that such pressures are having—not just on the organisation, but on leadership itself.
Looking ahead to January, we’ll be publishing a deeper dive into six critical signs that can help identify when leadership is under significant strain. These signs highlight areas where early action can help avoid long-term consequences and, crucially, offer opportunities to build stronger, more resilient leadership in the face of adversity.
We’re keen to open a conversation with you about the challenges you’re experiencing. What pressures are you facing in your council? Where are you seeing the greatest strain, and where do you feel the need for change? As we shape our work for the year ahead, we want to ensure that our support is tailored to meet your needs, helping you navigate the road ahead.
We look forward to hearing from you and exploring how we can work together to address these challenges.
Mark Rogers