Financial Management and Service Planning in Practice

Financial Management and Service Planning in Practice for Local Government

Specifically designed for Queensland’s elected members, this one-day workshop provides a practical foundation in financial management, risk, and service planning—key areas that underpin effective governance and long-term sustainability in local government.

The course empowers elected members to ask informed, strategic questions that lead to sound financial decisions and better outcomes for their communities. It highlights the critical role elected officials play in interpreting financial information, overseeing performance, and shaping the strategic direction of their councils.

Executive management are also welcome to attend by invitation, supporting a shared understanding of financial responsibilities and collaborative leadership.

Through interactive discussions and practical exercises grounded in real-world scenarios, participants will explore how financial principles apply in the local government context—building confidence to engage with financial matters and contribute meaningfully to sustainable public value.

What are the course learning outcomes?

Learning outcomes:

Understand an efficient financial governance framework.
Recognise the key drivers of financial risk management and financial sustainability.
Build confidence in analysing financial information to inform financially sustainable decision-making.
Understand the role of elected members and officers in the council service planning and budgeting process.
Relate service planning principles to a councils’ integrated planning framework.
Explore the importance of service reporting, monitoring and assessment to achieve effectiveness and efficiency.

What core topics are offered?

Strategic vision and sustainability
Service planning summary, including service types
Prioritising services and determining levels of service
High-level overview of the following topics:
- Project Management
- Asset Management
- Budgeting and forecasting
- Management reporting
- Understanding financial statements
- Cash and debt management

Who is this course suited to?

This course is designed for elected members who are responsible for financial risk management and decision-making, including service planning, resources and budget oversight. This course is also available to council executive management should they be invited by their elected members (at the elected members’ discretion).

No prior knowledge of the topics or public sector processes are assumed.

What are the course credentials?

Participants will receive a digital badge upon successful completion of the course which can be shared across various online platforms so you can showcase your demonstrated skills and achievements.

What does my course schedule look like?

These courses are scheduled directly with councils.

Course are delivered in-person with reflective activities to apply the learnings in your work context and supported by online resources.

Upcoming courses

There are currently no scheduled workshops. SUBSCRIBE FOR UPDATES

By registering for the course, you acknowledge the registration terms and conditions, including eligibility and cancellation policy.

To discuss custom training requirements, contact the QTC Education team by emailing education@qtc.com.au

"The hard-earned experiences of the public servant presenters offers the advantage of a learning experience tailored to the unique culture, challenges and practices of work within the public service."