The DCM Institute recently concluded its first Professional Development Day series for 2023, leaving the prestigious Hilton Hotel in Sydney abuzz with village professionals eager to enhance their knowledge and skills.
In the words of James Wiltshire, DCM Institute’s Executive Director, “Residents want to know that their village manager is provided with the skills and knowledge required to do the job.”
The day was structured as an interactive workshop, delving into crucial topics such as asset management, resident committees, and providing a legal update from the DCM Institute’s trusted legal partners.
Kicking off the year, the DCM Institute aimed to address the topics that Village Managers had highlighted at the end of the previous year. Asset management took centre stage, as residents across the country expressed their desire for access to more detailed information.
Aidan O’Flaherty and Amanda Walker from Asset Journey led the session, exploring this critical issue from a best practice perspective. “The key is to have good information,” summarized Aidan, “so that we can make informed decisions around what to repair, what to maintain, and when to replace.”
Recognising the paramount importance of fostering strong relationships between Village Managers and residents, representatives from Residents’ Associations shared their insights nationwide.
These sessions provided an open platform for residents to voice their opinions on the role of Residents’ Committees and shed light on the challenges faced by both Village Managers and resident representatives. As one Residents’ Association representative pointed out, “While a Resident’s Committee is not a decision-making body, the goal should always be to cultivate a collaborative environment that allows the village to thrive.”
Keeping Village Managers informed about the ever-evolving legislative landscape, the DCM Institute partnered with industry leaders, including Jackson McDonald, O’Loughlin Lawyers, Minter Ellison, and Russell Kennedy. These legal experts shared state-specific updates on legislative reforms during the Professional Development Day series.
The resounding success of the Professional Development Day series was evident in the enthusiastic participation of Village Managers, industry partners, and residents alike. By consistently offering relevant and insightful professional development opportunities, the DCM Institute remains dedicated to equipping Village Managers with the necessary tools to excel in their roles.
The DCM Institute is already gearing up for the next series, scheduled to commence in late August.