Rates Modelling Fiascos That Make You Go ‘What?!’
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 »
Practitioner’s View: “Getting Rates Modelling Right: Insights from the Front Line”
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 »
The Hidden Costs of Poor Planning and Inefficient Systems in Council Operations
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 »
The Woes of Rates Capping: Lessons from NSW and Victoria
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 »
Friday Fun: Local Government Legends
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 »
Enhancing Decision-Making in Budgeting and Planning: Insights from “Thinking, Fast and Slow” by Daniel Kahneman
In public administration, particularly within city councils and government bodies, decision-making is often a complex, high-stakes task involving budgeting, long-term
Looking Ahead: Finding Optimism in the Year to Come
As the holiday season draws to a close, many of us are returning from the Christmas break with a renewed
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Reflecting on the Year with Gratitude
As the year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to pause, reflect, and express heartfelt gratitude to those
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Breaking Free from the Spreadsheet Trap: Maslow’s Hammer in Local Government Finance
In 1966, Abraham Maslow famously wrote, “If the only tool you have is a hammer, you tend to see every
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Reflecting on Sacrifice: Remembrance Day
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 »
Understanding Council Rates: How They Work and Where Your Money Goes
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 »
“Good Strategy Bad Strategy: The Difference and Why It Matters” by Richard Rumelt – Planning Precision for Financial Success
Rumelt delineates the difference between a ‘good strategy’—one that is coherent and focuses on challenges and how to approach them—and
Scenario Planning for Future-Ready Cities: Learning from “Scenario Planning in Organisations”
Scenario planning is an invaluable tool for councils seeking to navigate the complexities of long-term governance in a rapidly changing
Switch: How to Change Things When Change Is Hard” by Chip and Dan Heath – Driving Effective Financial Reforms
In Switch, Chip and Dan Heath explore change challenges, offering a framework for navigating behaviour, organisation, and community transitions. This
Key Considerations Before Undertaking a Rating Review
A rating review is one of the most impactful processes a council can undertake, directly influencing revenue streams and community
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Understanding Rating Principles: Guide to Taxation in Local Government
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 »
The Essential Role of Long-Term Financial Planning in Local Government: Lessons from Missteps
Long-term financial Planning (LTFP) is not merely a tool—it is a necessity. As councils manage everything from local infrastructure to
Why Councils Matter: Building Stronger Communities
Councils are the backbone of local communities, quietly shaping our environments and ensuring essential services run smoothly. Yet, many people
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Honouring the ANZACs: A Legacy of Courage and Sacrifice
The ANZACs—Australian and New Zealand Army Corps soldiers—hold a revered place in the hearts of people across both nations. Their
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Ibis Team Reflects on Successful Participation at Taituara Civic Financial Services Strategic Finance Forum
Wellington, New Zealand—The Taituarā Civic Financial Services Strategic Finance Forum, held on April 10-11, 2024, at the James Cook Hotel
Embracing the Spirit of the Ibis: Modern Values Guided by Ancient Wisdom
The ibis was more than just a bird in ancient Egypt – it was a symbol of wisdom and understanding
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