Kathryn Johnson, PAE and IPWEA SA President
Michael Brown MP, Assistant Minister to the Premier for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Digital Economy, Member for Florey
Fresh from the Global Focus of Asset Management conference, Dr. Kyle Wedberg brings global insights into how finance and asset management intersect to drive smarter infrastructure decisions. This session explores international best practices, the evolving role of finance officers, and how data and strategy are shaping resilient public assets. Expect sharp takeaways and practical ideas to elevate your local impact.
Speakers:
Fleet and plant operations are evolving fast, and councils need more than maintenance plans; they need strategic foresight. In this session, Marc Sibbald and Tober Solito bring national insights and practical tools to help South Australian leaders optimise asset performance, embrace emerging technologies, and align fleet decisions with broader infrastructure goals. From policy updates to sustainability trends, this is a must-attend for anyone shaping the future of public works.
Speakers:
Marc Sibbald, Director IPWEA Fleet
Luke Boin is an Emerging Leader Award recipient and passionate advocate for the next generation of public works professionals. Luke will share recent initiatives, upcoming opportunities, and how young professionals are shaping the future of infrastructure in South Australia.
Speaker:
Luke Boin, Senior Engineer, Assets and Spatial Lead SA/Vic, Tonkin
IPWEA Education with Jonathan Jones, Head of Education, IPWEA
From foundational training to advanced certification, IPWEA’s education portfolio is equipping professionals with the skills to lead, adapt, and innovate. Jonathan Jones, Head of Education, will spotlight the latest programs, digital learning tools, and strategic pathways designed to support councils, engineers, and asset managers at every stage of their career. Discover how IPWEA is shaping the future of infrastructure through lifelong learning.
Green Infrastructure Management Manual Launch with Dr. Jacqui Balston, Director Sustainability, IPWEA
As cities face rising climate pressures, nature-based solutions are no longer optional, they’re essential. Dr. Jacqui Balston, a leading voice in sustainable urban design and Director of Sustainability at IPWEA, unveils the soon-to-launch Green Infrastructure Management Manual. This landmark resource equips councils with the tools to value, plan, and manage green assets. From street trees to living shorelines within strategic asset frameworks, join Jacqui as she shares the vision, research, and practical applications behind this transformative initiative.
Climate resilience and sustainable growth is a critical priority, and the Bunyip2 Water Reuse Project stands out as a future-focused initiative. Kieren Chappell and Jason Winter will share how Light Regional Council is harnessing stormwater to support urban expansion, reduce flood risk, and deliver long-term water security for agriculture and community use. This session explores the power of public-private partnerships, smart infrastructure, and regional leadership in shaping a greener South Australia.
Speakers:
Kieran Chappell, General Manager - Economic Development, Light Regional Council
Jason Winter, Engineering Services Coordinator, Light Regional Council
Flooding across South Australia’s far north has long isolated communities, disrupted freight routes, and strained local economies. The Cooper Creek Crossing Barge Project is delivering a modular, livestock-capable vessel to restore vital connectivity along the Birdsville Track.
Led by the Department of Infrastructure and Transport, this initiative reflects strategic collaboration between state and federal governments, offering not just emergency relief but a long-term boost to tourism, agriculture, and regional resilience.
Speaker:
Mick Lorenz, Director, Road Maintenance, Department for Infrastructure and Transport (DIT), South Australia
Adelaide is on the cusp of unprecedented growth, with the Greater Adelaide Regional Plan (GARP) setting the stage for 315,000 new homes and a population surge of over 670,000 by 2050. This panel goes beyond current rollout programs to explore what infrastructure must look like to support that future; especially in critical areas like water and wastewater, where investment and planning are essential to unlocking new communities.
Led by General Manager of City Infrastructure at City of Salisbury John Devine, this session brings together experts and practitioners ready to speak candidly about what’s needed, not just what’s underway. Expect insights into long-term infrastructure strategy, cross-sector collaboration, and the bold thinking required to build a resilient, connected, and sustainable Adelaide.
Panel led by John Devine, General Manager City Infrastructure, City of Salisbury
Panellists:
Building on the 2024 keynote by Professor Anton Vanden Hengel, this panel explores how AI is being responsibly deployed across government. Led by Rita Excell, the discussion brings together practitioners and experts to share real-world case studies from trialling Copilot and ChatGPT to training models on local datasets. Hear lessons learned, challenges faced, and how agencies are navigating ethics, transparency, and impact in their AI journeys.
Panel led by Rita Excell, Director, Rita Excell Advisory
Panellists:
From aquatic centres to civic upgrades, councils across South Australia are reimagining community infrastructure with sustainability at the core. This panel explores key projects including the Payneham redevelopment, Mount Barker’s new pool precinct, Tea Tree Gully’s revitalisation efforts and more.
Hear from the teams behind these initiatives as they share lessons in design, delivery, and community impact, highlighting how thoughtful planning and collaboration can shape resilient, inclusive spaces for generations to come.
Panel led by David Jenkins, CEO, IPWEA Australasia
Panellists:
Join us for a fireside chat with Kyle Chalmers OAM.
Olympic champion, community advocate, and one of Australia’s most inspiring athletes, Kyle Chalmers brings a powerful message of resilience, leadership, and performance to this year’s IPWEA SA Conference. From winning gold in the 100m freestyle at the Rio Olympics to representing Australia on the world stage, Kyle’s journey is one of determination and purpose.
Beyond the pool, Kyle is deeply committed to causes that matter—supporting water safety, youth empowerment, and mental health awareness. This fireside chat will explore what it takes to thrive under pressure, lead with authenticity, and stay grounded while chasing excellence. Prepare to be inspired by a story that transcends sport and speaks directly to the heart of leadership in public works.