Greater Shepparton calls for emerging leaders to apply for 2026 Community Leadership Program

In Summary

Council is calling for applications for the 2026 Community Leadership Program, a Council-funded initiative supporting emerging grassroots leaders across the municipality.
The program, now in its 13th year, includes seven in-person workshops covering areas such as communication, governance, public speaking, goal setting and resilience.
Up to 20 participants aged 18 years and over with a strong connection to Greater Shepparton will be selected for the program, which commences in May 2026.
Applications close at 11.59pm on Monday 30 March 2026, with further information and application forms available via our website.

The program has been running since 2014, with 2026 marking its 13th year. It is designed to build leadership capability, confidence and community connection for people who aspire to contribute positively to Greater Shepparton.

The 2026 Council funded program consists of seven workshops, designed to build participants’ leadership capability and confidence across key areas, including:

Communication styles and conflict management
Community leadership
Council governance and meeting practices
Goal setting and monitoring
Public speaking and presentation techniques
Reflection and resilience
Participant presentations

This comprehensive program ensures that participants gain a well-rounded understanding of community leadership. The program is scheduled to commence in May 2026, with in person sessions that will allow participants to fully engage with the content and connect with their peers.

Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor and past participant, Councillor Shane Sali, said the program continues to play an important role in strengthening local leadership.

“Having completed the Community Leadership Program myself, I saw firsthand how valuable it is participants. The program supports people who want to step up and contribute to their community, whether through volunteering, advocacy or formal leadership roles,” he said.

“Over the past 13 years, participants have gone on to support local groups, lead community initiatives and take on leadership positions across Greater Shepparton.”

Councillor Sam Spinks, Poplar Ward, also a past participant in the Community Leadership Program, said the program supports people who want to make a difference locally.

“One of the strengths of the program is the mix of people and perspectives it brings into the room,” she said.

“It challenges participants to think differently, build strong networks and gain a deeper understanding of the community they live in and serve.”

Places are limited, with up to 20 participants to be selected. Applicants must be 18 years or older and have a strong connection to the Greater Shepparton community.

Applications close at 11.59pm on Monday 30 March 2026.

Tap here for further information and to apply online.

For further information, contact Council’s Coordinator Community Development on 5832 9700 or email council@shepparton.vic.gov.au