2026 Local Roads Congress

The 2026 Local Roads Congress is an annual event for local government to join together to discuss policy changes, challenges and constraints within the NSW local roads network. The congress provides a forum for NSW council executive staff and elected officials to discuss policy issues with NSW state Ministers in order to optimise road and transport outcomes across the state.

 

Shaping Policies for Stronger Communities

Under the theme “Shaping Policies for Stronger Communities”, the 2026 Congress encourages local government leaders to reflect on past experiences, embrace innovation, and implement practical, forward-thinking solutions. By examining challenges, reimagining traditional approaches, and committing to smarter, more resilient infrastructure, councils can actively shape the future of NSW’s local roads and transport networks—building stronger, more connected communities for all.

 

 

Local Roads Congress turns 21

The Local Roads Congress has a proud 21 year history having first been held in 2005 by the Roads & Transport Directorate, a joint initiative between IPWEA NSW & ACT and Local Government NSW (LGNSW). Over the years the Local Roads Congress has seen multiple NSW State Government Ministers and Shadow Ministers attend, including last year with The Hon. Jenny Aitchison MP (Minister for Regional Transport and Roads), The Hon. John Graham MLC (Minister for Roads), and The Hon. Natalie Ward MLC (Shadow Minister for Transport and Roads, and Shadow Minister for Infrastructure). This year will continue to showcase local government decision-makers.

 

Who Should Attend

The Congress primarily targets local government decision-makers. We highly encourage Mayors, Councillors, General Managers and Directors of Engineering to attend.

 

Congress Program

The event promises a day of insightful guest speakers and dialogue, concluding with an opportunity for networking accompanied by drinks and canapés. The final Program will be announced shortly, promising a line-up of expert speakers and relevant topics.

Networking Evening

After a day of critical discussions at the 2026 Local Roads Congress, delegates can continue the conversation at the Networking Evening with drinks and canapés. This exclusive gathering provides mayors, councillors, general managers, and executives with the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions on the day's key topics, exchange insights, and strengthen professional connections. In a relaxed setting, attendees can share perspectives on local road funding, policy challenges, and innovative solutions, ensuring the dialogue extends beyond the conference room. Don’t miss this chance to connect with fellow decision-makers shaping the future of local roads.

 

 

Registration for Mayors and Councillors

Each registration to the 2026 Local Roads Congress will include a complimentary registration for a mayor or councillor. Upon registering you will be given the option to add the details of the mayor or councilor you will be attending with. If you have already registered and did not include a mayor or councilor and would now like to do so, please contact events@ipweansw.org with their name and dietary information. Attendance is limited so we recommend that you do this upon registering.

 

Registration Type	Cost	Closes	Additional Information
Registration – Early Bird RTD Member Registration – Early Bird RTD Non-Member	$600 $700	5 May 2026	Each registration includes complimentary attendance for a mayor or councillor
Registration – Full price RTD Member Registration – Full price RTD Non-Member	$750 $850	23 May 2025	Each registration includes complimentary attendance for a mayor or councillor