TAFE SA undertook 100% of this project at the Adelaide City Campus and onsite at LGA Chambers in Adelaide.

1. Phase 1: The LGA surveyed the local government sector through Face to Face focus groups and online SurveyMonkey across 5 regions and 11 job categories to collect the raw data for the training needs analysis.
2. Phase 2: The data from the surveys was provided to TAFE SA to compile a detailed training needs analysis report for each region and employment category.
3. Phase 3: From this analytical report TAFE SA developed a training plan based on the current needs across the local sectors. The report and training plans have been presented to the LGA E&T team to support the upskilling of this sector. TAFE SA will work with LGA on implementation plans within the councils moving forward.

What has the project achieved?

TAFE SA was able to develop a training needs analysis report, (based on the analytics/metrics of the LG training needs analysis survey and focus group sessions) and a corresponding customised training plan across the 5 regions, strategically aligned with LGA’s three key initiatives in order to upskill the sector

• a) Leadership and Advocacy
• b) Capacity Building and Sustainability
• c) Best Practice and Continuous improvement Training needs of the local government sector was identified across the 5 LG regions, analysing 12 job categories with the project leading to the development of a training needs analysis report and plan. This was undertaken by TAFE SA and is unique to the LG sector aligning with the strategic direction of the LGA.

What performance measures did you use to evaluate the projects?

The performance measures used to evaluate the project are listed below.

• Maximise training opportunities across the sector based on their specific needs identified from the LGA research/data.
• Improve the range and offering of training courses across the local government sector therefore better equipping the sector to meet community needs.
• Provide education and training tailored to the specific needs of the council e.g., short course, recognition of prior learning or full qualifications.
• Improve the efficiency and cost effectiveness of training offerings to all staff across the sector. Provide new and on trend training opportunities to help achieve the council’s goals of the future.
• Improve the skills across 12 job categories of the council and offer a benchmark in standards of training.
• Improve performance and productivity of councils.
• Improve morale and networking opportunities where possible.
• Creation of a training needs analysis model that is best practice across the sector.
• A revolutionary approach to then provide insights for the Australian LG sector.

Results from the implementation of training are unknown at this point to understand the true effectiveness of the gap findings as a result of the TNA. TAFE SA was fortunate to have several LGA HR people in the 2nd focus group which added a significant amount of value in identifying the skills gaps in various job roles represented in the TNA and from the participant surveys. Results from the implementation of training are unknown at this point to understand the true effectiveness of the gap findings as a result of the TNA. In our experience the true impact will be measured once training can be implemented.

What were the project outputs/outcomes for this project?

1. Phase 1: The LGA surveyed the local government sector across 5 regions, 11 job categories (12 including Elected Members) to collect the raw data. (3mths)
2. Phase 2: The data from the survey was provided to TAFE SA to compile a detailed training needs analysis report for each region and employment category. (4mths)
3. Phase 3: From this analytical report TAFE SA developed a training plan based on current needs across the local sector. (4mths)
4. Phase 4: TAFE SA and LGA E&T to further consult with each region’s key stakeholders for fine tune.
5. Phase 5: Implementation of the training plan through the LGA and with TAFE SA

How will the project outputs/outcomes be disseminated for the use by councils?

The LGA have consulted with all councils to collect the data used to compile the proposed report and training plan outlined in this funding proposal. Benefits will be for all LG employees in this sector.