Municipal Works Australia is exploring a new partnership concept with NMC to deliver a series of local government case study sessions designed to showcase leading practice in infrastructure and asset maintenance.

Drawing on NMC’s benchmarking work across the local government sector, the proposed series would bring high-performing councils into the spotlight and give other councils direct access to practical insights, real-world experience and honest discussion about what works, what does not, and what others can learn from their journey.

The presentations would feature council staff who have been directly involved in relevant projects and initiatives, ensuring attendees hear practical, first-hand insights from the people closest to the work. These sessions are proposed to be hosted on a new presentation stage at MWA’s annual conference and expo, MWA Bendigo 2027, to be held in Bendigo on 17–18 March 2027.

The sessions are proposed to take the form of informal fireside chats, facilitated by NMC and featuring representatives from leading Australian councils. Each discussion would focus on operational areas where meaningful performance gaps exist between leading and typical practice, helping attendees better understand where their own council sits and what is possible.

Indicative topics include the use of AI in asset maintenance, optimising data in asset management systems, and achieving high-quality control in civil maintenance. Sessions would be designed for a broad local government audience, including operations and maintenance coordinators, asset managers, directors and senior leaders.

The concept aims to provide attendees with practical ideas they can consider applying in their own councils, stronger benchmarking awareness, and a clearer view of where the municipal works sector is heading.