Key Drivers Accelerating pace and unpredictability of change Adverse economic, social and environmental impacts of either change itself, or lack of an effective, inclusive response Apparent inability of governments to cope Consequent loss of trust/faith in public institutions Growing realisation that much more can and should be done at the local/community level

Localist principles for change Embrace the future and take informed risks when necessary Learn how to be ‘community led’, making space for local action Deepen council’s understanding of its communities, responding to diversity Empower citizens through participatory and deliberative democracy, applying a range of mechanisms Promote local networks and co-production of goods and services Embrace new ways of (place-based) working to implement joined- up planning and services Forge more local and regional partnerships to drive change

Pathways to success Moore’s Strategic Triangle Hambleton’s Place-Based Leadership

First steps Review council’s current approach to community leadership Adopt a decentralised, place-based model for local governance, including devolved decision-making Commit to collaboration – with other councils, State and Federal governments, business and civil society organisations Invite citizens to become partners in framing a ‘New Story’ ‘Map’ the energy and resources of local groups and networks (Asset- Based Community Development) Work with local communities to develop action plans that address their differing needs and opportunities Establish regional and national networks to share experience

Pie-in-the-sky? Certainly different, but increasingly common practice Actually in local government’s best interests: Community support and democratic legitimacy Additional resources Comparative advantage in the system of government More ‘experimentation’ needed to: ‘Road test’ different techniques Identify what works best in different circumstances Formulate a coherent localist agenda Watch this space for opportunities to get involved!