VLGA & LGiU Global Executive Live Panel, 23 May 2025

Across the globe, hostility towards and distrust in public institutions is rising. Nowhere is this more true than at a local level – the most accessible sphere of government. Councillors and staff are increasingly tackling issues stemming from rising levels of negative, abusive and sometimes threatening rhetoric.

Addressing this pressing issue for local government, this webinar from Victorian Local Governance Association (AUS) and Local Government Information Unit (UK) explores the experiences and lessons from local government across the globe. Panellists for this session include:

• Jacqui Weatherill, CEO, City of Greater Dandenong, Australia
• Professor Catherine Needham, Professor of Public Policy and Public Management, University of Birmingham, UK
• Jo Miller, CE, Hutt City Council, NZ
• Hannah Phillips, Civility Commission Manager, Jo Cox Foundation, UK
• Diane Kalen-Sukra, Founder, Kalen Academy, Canada