11 April 2024

Wollongong to host 2026 LGNSW Annual Conference

The City of Wollongong has overcome a strong field to win the right to host the 2026 Local Government NSW Annual Conference.

The Annual Conference is the local government sector’s pivotal event each year, setting the agenda for the advocacy which the organisation pursues on behalf of the State’s 128 local councils.

Hundreds of councillors, general managers and council staff from across NSW will converge on Wollongong to debate the issues important to their local communities. 

LGNSW President Cr Darriea Turley AM congratulated the City of Wollongong for beating off a raft of high-quality cities to host the 2026 Conference which will take place in late November.

For a hosting city, the LGNSW Annual Conference is a magnificent chance to highlight everything the area has to offer.

“I am delighted that the conference in two years will be held in the City of Wollongong,” Cr Turley said. 

“The Gong is a vibrant and diverse city with so much to offer our delegates and I have no doubt that the local council will provide a magnificent venue befitting the occasion.”

Wollongong City Lord Mayor, Cr Gordon Bradbery AM said he was delighted Wollongong would be hosting so many mayors, councillors and general managers at the 2026 event.

“Here they’ll be part of constructive conversations focused on sharing new ideas and industry best practice,” Cr Bradbery said.

“Together we can ensure that local government continues to deliver what residents want and need, and advocate on their behalf for improvements in matters outside our responsibility.

“I look forward to robust conversations and the opportunity to showcase Wollongong and the work we’re doing as a Council on behalf of our community.’’

Wollongong City Council General Manager Greg Doyle said Wollongong was really making its mark as a city that was embracing positive change.

“We’ve been working hard in recent years to redefine Wollongong as a city that embraces the arts and culture, that facilitates and delivers greener active transport through our investment in cycleways and support of a shared e-scooters trial, and that is working to address climate change through planning and policy,” Mr Doyle said.

“Plus, we’ve hosted world-class sporting events, and got one of the fastest-growing residential areas in NSW outside the Sydney metropolitan area.”

“There is a lot we bring to the table for this important conference and I’m looking forward to seeing industry leaders from across the state in our city and sharing with them all the great things Wollongong has to offer.’’

Cr Turley said the conference was always an excellent opportunity to share ideas, seek inspiration and debate and resolve council-submitted motions that shape the sector’s policy direction for the following year. 

“The tradeshow and educational workshops also help support delegates in their efforts to effectively represent their communities, “she said.

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