Building Sustainable Communities: A Path to Net Zero

Sustainability Seminar

9:00am for a 9:30am start – 12:30pm | Thursday 6 November 2025
Sydney Zoo, 700 Great Western Hwy, Eastern Creek

Join us for this half-day seminar where we will explore essential topics such as planning for net zero, understanding climate related financial disclosures, community involvement in emission reduction, and effective strategies for public engagement in climate action.

This seminar aims to provide valuable insights and actionable strategies for local government officers to address climate change challenges, offering practical solutions and innovative approaches.

Don't miss this opportunity to learn from experts and gain valuable knowledge to advance your climate and sustainability initiatives.

After the seminar, we invite you to join us* for a delicious lunch and help to celebrate the achievements of councils, businesses, and community groups from across Greater Sydney at the 2025 Keep Australia Beautiful Sustainable Cities Awards luncheon.

*additional ticket fee applies for the awards luncheon

PRELIMINARY PROGRAM
Click here to download the seminar flyer and program in PDF format

0900 Registration, tea and coffee
0930 Welcome and housekeeping Val Southam
CEO,
KAB NSW
EMISSIONS MEASUREMENT AND REPORTING FOR COUNCILS
0940 Demystifying GHG accounting on the path to Net Zero Matt Sprague
Director Climate Advisory,
South Pole		 This presentation will explore how accurate emissions data underpins credible climate action and builds trust with stakeholders, as well as where carbon credits fit into your net zero strategy. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to strengthen your reporting approach, this session offers practical insights to guide your efforts.
0955 Presentation title to be advised Speaker to be advised
1010 Climate-related financial disclosures raises the temperature for environmental health Kevin Turner
Manager Environment,
Blacktown City Council		 Blacktown City Council is proud to be one of the first local governments to voluntarily report in accordance with the Australian Sustainability Reporting Standards for climate-related financial disclosures. This presentation discusses our path to achieving Climate Active carbon-neutral certification for our operations
1025 Questions and discussion
1050 Morning tea break
ENGAGING WITH THE COMMUNITY
1115 Presentation title to be advised Speaker to be advised
1130 Local Voices, Global Goals: Building climate resilience through inclusive engagement Julie Redhi
Senior Coordinator Environmental Services, Blacktown City Council		 From Blacktown Big ideas to Baby Booktime, using storytelling, education and community led innovation to build pathways to net zero. This presentation will explore creative ways Blacktown Council use to connect community with sustainability challenges and bring them on the resilience journey.
1145 Power in Partnership: Building community energy, climate and financial resilience through cricket Joanne Bowen
CEO,
Cricket for Climate		 Cricket is Australia’s national summer sport. It holds deep significance for 8 million Australians, some of which are the hardest to reach. Learn how Cricket for Climate is leading practical community solutions, futureproofing our sport and inspiring community members to get on board with solutions in their own lives.
1200 Questions and discussion
1220 Wrap Up
1230 End seminar – Awards lunch commences