This year’s Index draws on insights from 134 council CEOs across metropolitan and regional Australia, providing a unique national view of the leadership, operational and transformation challenges shaping the sector.

Top Priorities and Key Findings in 2025:

1. People, leadership and organisational culture: 53% of CEOs prioritise it for uplift in the year ahead—closely followed by realignment, structure, and leadership development.
2. Cyber security: Firmly entrenched as the #1 technology issue, with 24% of CEOs saying cyber risk keeps them awake at night.
3. Leadership capability: 91% of CEOs are concerned about leadership talent gaps, making capability development the top workforce priority.
4. Service redesign and improvements: Rising into the top five for the first time, as councils face growing financial pressures and community expectations.
5. Community resilience and wellbeing: This is the only theme that has been among the top five overall CEO priorities each year of the Index, reinforcing Local Government’s role in helping communities navigate disruption, recovery, and long-term wellbeing.

“This year’s results show that Councils continue to invest in shared service models, modernising technology, ESG, and data-driven strategy. These shifts reflect a sector that is not standing still but adapting with intent.”

 – Clare McCartin, Managing Partner – Search & Advisory, Davidson

The full report is now available at www.davidsonwp.com. Davidson invites clients, candidates, and partners to explore the report and share feedback.

About Davidson

Davidson is a proudly Australian company with more than 30 years of experience in enhancing workplace performance. With specialist teams in Business Advisory, Search and Recruitment, and Technology Consulting, Davidson partners with clients to deliver sustainable, outcome-driven solutions that make a lasting impact for organisations and communities.

Media enquiries:

Paula Price
Senior Manager – Marketing

Email: paula.price@davidsonwp.com