Published on:
Tuesday, 7 July, 2026_jpg_1280_300.webp)
More than 140 HR, ER and People and Culture professionals from across WA came together at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre last Friday for WALGA's sold-out People and Culture Seminar 2026.
This year's theme 'Back to the Future: The more things change, the more they stay the same', explored the growing challenges facing Local Government employers while reinforcing the importance of effective people management, strong leadership and fostering a positive workplace culture.
The program brought together experts across all facets of workplace relations, leadership, mental health, regulation, and capability building, with sessions designed to provide practical insights and strategies for delegates to embed in their organisations.
Some of the many highlights of the day included:
• A heartfelt Welcome to Country by Cr Barry Winmar, an opening address by WALGA CEO Nick Sloan, and Kirsty Martin, Executive Manager Member Services at WALGA closing out the days proceedings.
• Tony Brown, Local Government Inspector, provided an informative overview of the functions of the new Local Government Inspector.
• The presentation from Anne Lingafelter - Gallup, explored why human leadership is more important than ever with the ongoing evolution of AI.
• Commissioner Toni Emmanuel, Western Australian Industrial Relations Commission, provided practical insights around dispute resolution and issue prevention in the workplace.
• Next to the stage was Adam Halliwell from Public Skills Australia, who shared Local Government workforce insights and sector data.
• Darrin Brandis - Altius/People Sense gave a thought-provoking session centred on mental health, delving into the importance of proactive wellbeing and psychosocial risk prevention.
• Building capability and long term careers in Local Government was the focus of the panel sessions facilitated by WALGA Training Manager, Eva Goodwin. A big thank you to the panelists who gave up their time to share their inspirational stories - Kirsty Ferraro and Taylah Patell - Shire of Waroona, Dylan Fryer - Shire of Dumbleyung, Andrew Trosic - Shire of Serpentine-Jarrahdale.
• The final session was presented by Samantha Maddern from Mills Oakley, who shared real life case studies and practical strategies for managing an ageing workforce.
• The day wrapped up with a networking sundowner overlooking the swan river and an opportunity to mingle with Local Government peers.
A huge thank you to everyone involved in yet another success P&C Seminar, with a special shout out to our generous sponsors Mills Oakley and Gallup for their continuous support. We look forward to doing it all again in 2027!
And don't forget to check back soon to view the full PCS2026 photo gallery.
This year's theme 'Back to the Future: The more things change, the more they stay the same', explored the growing challenges facing Local Government employers while reinforcing the importance of effective people management, strong leadership and fostering a positive workplace culture.
The program brought together experts across all facets of workplace relations, leadership, mental health, regulation, and capability building, with sessions designed to provide practical insights and strategies for delegates to embed in their organisations.
Some of the many highlights of the day included:
• A heartfelt Welcome to Country by Cr Barry Winmar, an opening address by WALGA CEO Nick Sloan, and Kirsty Martin, Executive Manager Member Services at WALGA closing out the days proceedings.
• Tony Brown, Local Government Inspector, provided an informative overview of the functions of the new Local Government Inspector.
• The presentation from Anne Lingafelter - Gallup, explored why human leadership is more important than ever with the ongoing evolution of AI.
• Commissioner Toni Emmanuel, Western Australian Industrial Relations Commission, provided practical insights around dispute resolution and issue prevention in the workplace.
• Next to the stage was Adam Halliwell from Public Skills Australia, who shared Local Government workforce insights and sector data.
• Darrin Brandis - Altius/People Sense gave a thought-provoking session centred on mental health, delving into the importance of proactive wellbeing and psychosocial risk prevention.
• Building capability and long term careers in Local Government was the focus of the panel sessions facilitated by WALGA Training Manager, Eva Goodwin. A big thank you to the panelists who gave up their time to share their inspirational stories - Kirsty Ferraro and Taylah Patell - Shire of Waroona, Dylan Fryer - Shire of Dumbleyung, Andrew Trosic - Shire of Serpentine-Jarrahdale.
• The final session was presented by Samantha Maddern from Mills Oakley, who shared real life case studies and practical strategies for managing an ageing workforce.
• The day wrapped up with a networking sundowner overlooking the swan river and an opportunity to mingle with Local Government peers.
A huge thank you to everyone involved in yet another success P&C Seminar, with a special shout out to our generous sponsors Mills Oakley and Gallup for their continuous support. We look forward to doing it all again in 2027!
And don't forget to check back soon to view the full PCS2026 photo gallery.
