MAV Annual Conference 2025: The Future is Local

For the first time, we also welcomed voices from the private sector, enriching the conversation and strengthening collaboration across communities. The energy, ideas, and connections that emerged were extraordinary.

We’ve loved hearing from attendees about their highlights, and we’re excited to share one of those perspectives with you from Councillor Myra Murrihy of Moyne Shire in south-west Victoria.

Cr Karen Foster, Moyne Shire; Cr Lisa Ryan, Moyne Shire; Sally Capp AO, Former Lord Mayor of Melbourne; Cr Myra Murrihy, Moyne Shire.

MAV Annual Conference 2025 Wrap Up - Councillor Myra Murrihy, Moyne Shire

“I had the opportunity to attend the 2025 MAV Annual Conference in Melbourne alongside Mayor Councillor Karen Foster and Councillor Lisa Ryan.

Throughout the day we split up to cover as many sessions as possible, ensuring we could bring a broad range of learnings and ideas back to our organisation. From courageous leadership and organisational capability to youth engagement and Treaty readiness, it was inspiring to hear from sector leaders, Traditional Owners and Youth Councillors who are helping shape what’s next for local government in Victoria.

The day began with a keynote from Andrew Colvin AO APM, who shared his reflections on courageous public sector leadership. Drawing on his experience with crisis management and humanitarian work with the Australian Red Cross, Andrew spoke about the importance of community cohesion and the power of local action in uncertain times. His discussion set an inspiring tone - a reminder that everyday courage, creativity and care sit at the heart of good public service.

From there, I attended a number of breakout sessions, including:

Treaty and Local Government: Building Understanding and Readiness
A powerful session with Uncle Charles Pakana, Jidah Clark and Aunty Tracey Evans, exploring the role of local government in supporting the Victorian Treaty process and strengthening relationships with Traditional Owners.

Are You Ready for Treaty?
A follow-up discussion highlighting how councils across Victoria are building awareness and readiness through MAV’s pilot programs. The session reinforced that we are entering a ‘Treaty Era’, providing valuable, factual information and practical tools to help combat misinformation. It also emphasised the importance of local governments - both councillors and officers - having a strong understanding of what Treaty is (and what it isn’t), so we can support clear, respectful messaging within our communities.

21st Century Municipality Capabilities
A highly interactive workshop exploring the evolving skills needed in local government to meet modern challenges. It was a great opportunity to reflect on leadership, workforce development and the importance of continuous learning and adaptability.

The Future is Young People
A standout session led by Youth Councillors from across the state, who spoke with passion and clarity about their experiences, priorities and vision for local government. Their confidence and commitment were truly inspiring - a timely reminder that young people must be central to our future planning and decision-making.

The afternoon sessions brought everyone back together for sector reflections and leadership panels. We heard from ALGA president Matt Burnett who shared a reflection on what they’ve been advocating for this year.

We concluded the day with “Last Word, Lasting Impact” - which offered candid, hopeful and forward-looking discussion about leadership, legacy and the courage to lead through change.

It was a full and rewarding day of connection, learning and reflection that reinforced why the local government sector continues to be such a vital force for good in our communities. I’m looking forward to sharing key takeaways with my fellow councillors and exploring how we can apply new ideas and inspiration here at Moyne.

My biggest takeaway? That strong, connected communities are built locally through collaboration, respect and courage to lead through change.

If you would like further information about this or upcoming events run by MAV or MAVlab, please visit our events page: https://www.mav.asn.au/events. You can also follow us on LinkedIn or Instagram for updates.