Free Diploma of Governance course for Crown land manager volunteers
Media release | 9 June 2021
The NSW Government is offering 100 free places in a Diploma of Governance course for volunteers who assist in the management of Crown land reserves.
Minister for Water, Property and Housing Melinda Pavey said applications are now open for the course which is being sponsored by the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment – Crown Lands.
“The NSW Government is indebted to the many community volunteers who help manage Crown land reserves in communities right across the state,” Mrs Pavey said.
“This course is a great opportunity for Crown Land Managers to expand their professional skills and contribute to the well-being of their communities.
“Diploma participants will gain a valuable qualification and management skills and join a growing alumni network of community volunteers and workers.
“It will provide the knowledge, skills, tools and confidence to effectively manage local reserves and help deliver social, environmental and economic benefits.”
The Diploma of Governance course, normally valued at $4,500 per participant, will be offered at no cost to 100 non-council Crown Land Manager volunteers or community members who want to become a volunteer Crown Land Manager.
The course will be provided through the Institute of Community Directors Australia (ICDA) and can be completed full-time over six months, or part-time over 12 months. Participants will also receive 18 months’ access to ICDA’s online resource centre.
The course is being offered as part of an ongoing Crown Land Manager (CLM) Governance Development Program which has so far attracted about 2,800 participants for webinars, workshops and training courses.
ICDA Executive Director Kathy Richardson said research by the Centre for Social Impact shows a 6:1 return on value for every dollar spent on governance training.
“Providing Crown Land Managers with improved governance and management skills will ensure Crown land reserves are best managed for the people of NSW,” Ms Richardson said.
Applications are open from 9 June and close on 4 August 2021. Successful applicants will be advised on a rolling basis until mid-September. There are already 3 course intakes scheduled in August, October or November, with more dates to be released depending on demand.
For further information and to apply visit https://icda.smartygrants.com.au/clm-governance-development.
Members of the public interested in becoming a volunteer Crown Land Manager can visit https://www.crownland.nsw.gov.au/about/crown-lands-explained for information on current positions in their local community.