In local government, every dollar is more than a number—it represents a road repaired, a family supported, or a park […]
When Every Dollar Counts: Why Councils Must Get Financial Planning Right Read Post »
Imagine this: a council accidentally sets a zero rate on residential properties for an entire financial year. Sounds like a
Rates Modelling Fiascos That Make You Go ‘What?!’ Read Post »
The cost of living across Australia and New Zealand has become a harsh reality for many. Homeownership is slipping further
Councils Must Plan Smartly—Freezing Rates Now Will Cost Communities Later Read Post »
As a rates modelling specialist, I’ve seen it all—missing data, conflicting priorities, and even the occasional “we didn’t know that
Practitioner’s View: “Getting Rates Modelling Right: Insights from the Front Line” Read Post »
Within local government, sound financial management is not just about keeping the books balanced; it is about ensuring the sustainability
The Hidden Costs of Poor Planning and Inefficient Systems in Council Operations Read Post »
Rates capping, also known as rates pegging, has been a contentious policy in New South Wales and Victoria for years.
The Woes of Rates Capping: Lessons from NSW and Victoria Read Post »
Happy Friday! As our work revolves around local government, let’s celebrate the end of the week with some light-hearted and
Friday Fun: Local Government Legends Read Post »
Are you a creative problem-solver with a passion for crafting exceptional web experiences? Ibis Information Systems is looking for a
Front-End Web Developer Wanted! Read Post »
Do you thrive on solving complex challenges and empowering clients with innovative solutions? Ibis Information Systems is seeking an Implementation
Implementation Consultant – Financial Planning Software Read Post »
In public administration, particularly within city councils and government bodies, decision-making is often a complex, high-stakes task involving budgeting, long-term
As the holiday season draws to a close, many of us are returning from the Christmas break with a renewed
Looking Ahead: Finding Optimism in the Year to Come Read Post »
As the year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to pause, reflect, and express heartfelt gratitude to those
Reflecting on the Year with Gratitude Read Post »
In 1966, Abraham Maslow famously wrote, “If the only tool you have is a hammer, you tend to see every
Breaking Free from the Spreadsheet Trap: Maslow’s Hammer in Local Government Finance Read Post »
On Remembrance Day, we pause to honour those who gave their lives in service to their countries during times of
Reflecting on Sacrifice: Remembrance Day Read Post »
Council rates are something most of us pay, but few truly understand how they work or what they fund. Let’s
Understanding Council Rates: How They Work and Where Your Money Goes Read Post »
Rumelt delineates the difference between a ‘good strategy’—one that is coherent and focuses on challenges and how to approach them—and
Scenario planning is an invaluable tool for councils seeking to navigate the complexities of long-term governance in a rapidly changing
In Switch, Chip and Dan Heath explore change challenges, offering a framework for navigating behaviour, organisation, and community transitions. This
A rating review is one of the most impactful processes a council can undertake, directly influencing revenue streams and community
Key Considerations Before Undertaking a Rating Review Read Post »
Setting rates is one of the most critical responsibilities of local government in New Zealand and Australia. Rates fund essential
Understanding Rating Principles: Guide to Taxation in Local Government Read Post »
Long-term financial Planning (LTFP) is not merely a tool—it is a necessity. As councils manage everything from local infrastructure to
