Recently, I was fortunate enough, with the backing of SOLACE, to participate in a study tour of Australia, visiting New South Wales and Queensland.

The purpose was two-fold – to research shared services in Australia, and, since I had won the ‘UK business leader of the year' category at the National Customer Service Awards, to speak at the Local Government Managers Association's annual conference.

Australian local government has much in common with the UK counterpart, and I have no doubt UK chief executives could slot into similar roles ‘down under'.

There are, however, a number of crucial differences. For example:

Just as in the UK, Australian local government is seeking to get more with less. It has been looking at amalgamation – merging councils – in Queensland. And, by contrast, is involved in ‘collaboration' – shared services – in New South Wales.

The Australians' shared services agenda is embryonic. However, I did come across one very vibrant example – the Hunter Council's Inc. This is an impressive organisation embracing 12 councils in and around the Hunter Valley, led by a dynamic and entrepreneurial managing director, it has led to significant savings and service improvements. 

In essence, shared services is a concept much talked about but practiced a lot less often… does that sound familiar? 

Local government, both in Australia and in the UK, appear to understand the benefits of shared services, but the Australians approach it cautiously and slowly. 

The lesson I have learned is the need for less circumspection and more action.

My visit provided me with an insight into practical and cultural issues and it is clear there is a real ‘can-do' attitude, a commitment to community cohesion and a real pride in Australian nationalism.

Finally, one thing I discovered more than anything else is that local government the world over is but one big family, and I was made to feel most welcome.

Anyone wishing to read my report can do so by logging on to: