2024–2025 Benchmarking Program
Registrations closed 17 September 2025
Why Benchmarking Matters
NLGCSN Benchmarking Program provides valuable insights that empower Local Government to provide your Council a strategic advantage to enhance their performance. By measuring key metrics and comparing sector-wide data we can identify insights, strengths, uncover areas for improvement, and make informed decisions. This valuable data will lead to better service delivery, increased efficiency, continuous improvement, and greater accountability to the community.
"The NLGCSN Benchmarking Program is tailored specifically for Local Government Councils, ensuring a truly fair and accurate 'apples-to-apples' comparison. With rapid changes in Local Government including the rise of AI, benchmarking is more important than ever.
Eligibility – Council must be a 2025/2026 financial member of NLGCSN
Program Refresh & Focus Group Insights
To keep pace with the evolving Local Government landscape, the Executive invited members to join a Benchmarking Focus Group. In collaboration with our research partner Lonergan Research and facilitator Phil Burnham, this group has shaped a more robust and relevant program.
What’s New in 2024–2025?
- Out with the old: Subjective questions have been replaced with objective KPIs.
- Simplified structure: The previous two-tiered system (Mini Report & Full Report) has been merged into one comprehensive report.
- Better value: Based on feedback, the Mini Report lacked depth, while the Full Report was cost-prohibitive for some councils.
Great News – Reduced Pricing
We have streamlined the program and reduced the cost by 36%!
New price: $995 + GST (previously $1,550 + GST)
If you have any questions regarding registration contact pauline@csnetwork.org.au
What You will Receive
- Easy-to-read PDF report showing your Council’s position against key KPIs
- Detailed data tables comparing your results to the benchmark
- Access to an online portal with interactive data visualisation (now with more features!)
- Optional Mystery Customer Offer: $250 for one in-person visit and one phone survey
You have two options:
Option 1: 2024/2025 Benchmarking Program + Mystery Customer
All participants are provided with an individual report (Network Benchmarking Report) detailing their annual performance as compared to the average of all participating local councils. If you are a current customer of mystery customer, you will also receive a complimentary report of performance of your council.
Cost: $995+GST
Option 2: 2024/2025 Mystery Customer
If you are not a current mystery shopper participant, you have the opportunity to receive a one in person and one phone call mystery customer report for an additional $250.00 (+GST)
Total Cost: $1245+GST
KEY DATES:
- 9 July 2025 - benchmarking registrations open
- 17 September 2025 COB - benchmarking registrations close