Leadership Onkaparinga 2026 program

Leadership for the common good

Applications are now open for our 2026 Leadership Onkaparinga program.

Program focus

The 2026 Leadership Onkaparinga program is an invitation to lead for the common good – bringing people together who want to deepen their understanding of how democracy works, what it means to be an active citizen and how communities can work together to create positive change.

This free four-month, program supports participants to build their understanding of civics and complex community systems, explore real adaptive challenges and develop the confidence and skills to participate meaningfully in collective leadership.

Participants will explore

  • How democracy works in practice, including the role of civics, institutions and citizens shaping community life.
  • What it means to be an active citizen and the ways people can participate meaningfully in democratic and community processes.
  • Understanding and responding to complex and ‘wicked’ community challenges
  • The impacts of misinformation, social cohesion and participation on democratic decision making.
  • Applying systems thinking to real world issues in the Onkaparinga region.
  • Building strong networks, relationships and trust to support collective leadership and community action.

Participants will develop the capacity to

  • Lead initiatives that strengthen community connection and cohesion
  • Support communities to identify strengths and take collective action
  • Apply systems thinking and future focused approaches to community issues.

What makes this program different?

Community centred: Leadership Onkaparinga places community at the centre – valuing shared leadership, collaboration and the strength of people working together to shape thriving, inclusive communities.

Grounded in real world action: Participants engage with real community challenges learning how to mobilise community assets and networks.

Deeply connected to place: The program is rooted in the Onkaparinga region building strong local networks and deeper understanding of the systems, stories and opportunities that shape community life.

Expert led and award - recognised:  This award-winning program was the recipient of the 2025 Excellence in Community Services and Development Award at the LG Professionals SA Leadership Excellence Awards and is carefully designed and delivered by experienced facilitators - local, national and international - bringing expertise in democracy, systems thinking, active citizenship and leadership for the common good.

Program delivery

  • Duration: May - August 2026 (4 months)
  • Format: Hybrid (online and face to face)
  • Flexibility: Some sessions held outside business hours

Applications closed 2 April 2026.

Please review the program schedule and access the application form via the hyperlink provided.

Download the program schedule(PDF, 29KB) 

For further information contact Joanna Giannes – Program Co-ordinator Leadership Onkaparinga at joanna.giannes@onkaparinga.sa.gov.au

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