21/10/03
Emerging community leaders have a new opportunity to develop their skills and resources.
Local Government and Regional Development Minister Tom Stephens said a partnership between the State Government and Leadership Western Australia, a non-Government organisation, would offer 30 places in an experiential learning program.
"The annual program will bring together outstanding achievers from diverse backgrounds to work towards positive changes in the social, economic and cultural environments of their communities," Mr Stephens said.
"Participants may come from non-Government organisations, local government, indigenous communities, Government agencies or the business sector.
"They will learn how to deal with the challenges associated with isolation and the diverse values of different groups within their communities and WA generally.
"The program will empower individuals to work with and lead the wider community in addressing issues of shared concern and making WA a better place to live.
"It will involve activities each month and occasional retreats and field trips, with financial support provided to cover the travel costs of regional participants."
Mr Stephens said the 30 participants would be selected through a competitive process.
The State Government, through the Department of Local Government and Regional Development would contribute $50,000 to assist with regional field trips and supporting regional participants with their travel costs.
Leadership Western Australia is a not-for-profit company, independent and non-aligned, with high-profile board members drawn from across all sectors of the community.
The Rio Tinto WA Future Fund is the founding partner of Leadership Western Australia, with several other organisations providing various forms of sponsorship and support.
Nominations close on October 31, 2003. Further details can be obtained from http://www.leadershipwa.org.au.
Minister's office: 9213 6500
