The 2027 Springboard for Local Government Communication Professionals

When:

Thursday 3 December 2026, 9am to 12.45pm 

Where:
Kathleen Syme Library and Community Centre

251 Faraday Street, Carlton 

Local government communication isn’t getting any easier – ain’t that the truth! 

Your communities expect more. Resources are tight. AI is shifting everything and misinformation moves quickly. Trust is fragile.

And here’s what hasn’t changed: Communication teams on the frontline while people vent frustration and issues escalate. 

The 2027 Springboard is your chance to lift your eyes from the day-to-day and get ready for what’s next.

A mini version of our annual Local Government Communication Professionals Summit, this Melbourne event combines insightful speaker sessions with plenty of interactive discussion, problem-solving and sharing with your council communication colleagues.

The program:

9am – New Pressures, New Possibilities – Dr Neryl East

What’s around the corner for council communicators?

We’ll dive into the trends, issues and shifts already shaping 2027 - from AI, trust and misinformation to changing community expectations, tougher organisational decisions and the evolving role of the communication professional.

More importantly, you’ll explore the skills, thinking and practical frameworks you’ll need to stay ahead, increase your influence and help your Council communicate credibly when the pressure is on. 

9.45 am – Shared Solutions for the Tough Stuff

A facilitated discussion about your biggest communication headache. Share what’s working, what isn’t and crowdsource fresh approaches with your peers.

10.30 am – Morning tea (included in your registration)

10.50 am – Setting Your Team Up for Success: Managing the Pressure of Council Social Media - Felicity Cull

When frustration spills into your council’s comments, comms professionals carry much of the pressure. That’s been the case for years, and it will continue into 2027.

Felicity Cull will explore what research tells us about the impact of moderation and how councils can better support their teams. Drawing on her experience managing social media, she’ll discuss practical ways to share the load and put clear guardrails and support systems in place. The session will finish with a Q&A, with a focus on building resilience into everyday work and preparing teams for difficult periods.

11.50 am – The Council Comms Marketplace: Don’t reinvent the wheel
Swap the ideas, shortcuts and solutions that are working in other councils - and take home what you can put to work tomorrow. 

12.45 pm - Close

As you can see, the program is a mix of latest trends, best practice and connection-building with council comms colleagues.

Don’t miss this opportunity! Registration is $240 ex GST per person. 

Bookings are essential – email info@neryleast.com with the names and addresses of those you’re registering. We’ll then send you an invoice, which can be paid through your Council’s Finance system or by credit card.