South Australian council representatives are in Tailem Bend this week for the 2025 LGA Roads and Works Conference, bringing together local leaders, industry partners and experts to shape the future of the state’s roads and infrastructure.
Hosted at The Bend Motorsport Park from 20-22 August, the annual conference provides councils with an opportunity to share ideas, learn about the latest innovations and strengthen partnerships that help deliver safer, stronger and more sustainable communities.
This year’s theme Beyond the Road – Building Safety, Strength and Sustainability reflects the critical role councils play in building communities, not only through maintaining roads but also through investing in infrastructure, supporting their workforce and planning for the future.
LGA President and City of Mitcham Mayor, Heather Holmes-Ross said the conference highlights how South Australian councils are continuously finding smarter, more efficient and sustainable ways to deliver road and infrastructure projects.
“Councils aren’t just maintaining assets – we’re constantly looking for innovative solutions that can help strengthen community infrastructure, make our local roads safer and stretch every dollar further,” said President Holmes-Ross.
“The Roads and Works Conference is a fantastic opportunity for local government leaders to share ideas and hear from experts about the latest trends and technologies – whether it’s trialling new, more environmentally friendly materials or adopting advanced road construction techniques.
“Our members can take those learnings back to their communities, turning new knowledge into practical improvements on the ground.”
Councils in South Australia invest more than $2.5 billion each year into their communities – with around 40% going into roads and public infrastructure. Collectively, they look after more than three-quarters of the state’s entire road network, spanning roughly 75,000 kilometres.
Some of the key topics covered at the 2025 Roads and Works Conference include road safety, freight efficiency, sustainability, circular economy and workforce wellbeing.
This year’s event is facilitated by LGA South Australia and hosted by the Coorong District Council, with support from premier sponsors North East Isuzu, LGA Mutual and the Australian Flexible Pavement Association.
