The fleet management industry is rapidly evolving, and for councils across Australasia, keeping pace with these changes is essential.
The 2025 IPWEA Fleet Conference, to be held in Brisbane from March 24-26, offers a unique opportunity for senior management to gain a high-level understanding of the transformative technologies and strategies shaping the future of fleet operations.
According to Marc Sibbald, Director – Fleet at IPWEA, the conference is designed to address the dual challenges councils face: enhancing safety and governance while achieving cost efficiencies.
“Fleet is no longer just about maintaining vehicles; it’s about strategic asset management,” Mr Sibbald said.
“New technologies like AI, advanced data analytics and alternative fuels are creating opportunities to increase safety, improve governance and reduce costs. But these benefits require the attention of senior leaders who can take a broader view of council operations and make the necessary changes.”
A program tailored for strategic thinkers
The conference program highlights the critical role of senior management in steering councils toward better fleet utilisation and operational efficiency.
Key sessions include:
- John Cadogan, Industry Commentator and YouTuber, presenting an Industry Overview that outlines current trends and challenges
- Steve Williams, National Manager ICT & Fleet at Komatsu Australia, exploring Emerging Technology in Plant and Equipment to improve safety and performance
- Rich Mitchell, Associate at Aurecon, presenting Aurecon’s Decarbonisation Vision, which offers practical strategies for councils to reduce fleet emissions
Senior leaders will also gain insights from panel discussions featuring experts like Melinda Ta (City of Parramatta) and Mihnea Stanciuc (City of Hume), who will share real-world case studies on improving fleet governance and operational efficiency.
Why senior leaders need to attend
The benefits of attending extend beyond fleet managers. Senior council executives play a crucial role in creating policies and allocating resources that enable fleet teams to succeed.
“Councils often operate large fleets, but many don’t realise the potential cost savings that come from optimising fleet size and utilisation,” Mr Sibbald said.
“By investing in technology and governance, councils can reduce the number of assets they own while increasing utilisation rates. This isn’t just a fleet issue – it’s a strategic decision that impacts budgets, compliance and sustainability. That’s why senior management needs to engage with these discussions.”
Transforming council fleets
Mr Sibbald emphasised that the 2025 IPWEA Fleet Conference is a pivotal event for councils to prepare for the future.
“This conference is about equipping senior leaders with the knowledge and tools to drive change. Whether it’s reducing emissions, improving safety or cutting costs, the decisions made at the senior level will determine how well councils can adapt to the challenges ahead.”
With a focus on collaboration, comparison, and creativity, the conference offers a roadmap for councils to transform their fleets into efficient, sustainable, and compliant assets.
Don’t miss out
Join the 2025 IPWEA Fleet Conference in Brisbane and be part of the conversation shaping the future of fleet management. For councils looking to embrace innovation and lead their communities through this period of disruption, this event is not to be missed.
“Fleet management is evolving rapidly,” Mr Sibbald said. “We’re bringing together some of the best minds in the industry to share their knowledge and help councils make smarter, more strategic decisions about their fleets.”
For more information or to register, visit fleetconference.com.au
