Move from conflict to a culture of civility in local government

Civility training for local government in Australia

A woman with long, wavy brown hair and light skin, wearing a white blazer, is speaking into a microphone at a podium. She is holding a piece of paper and appears to be giving a presentation. Behind her is a wooden-paneled wall and a large flat-screen monitor displaying a blue background. There is audio and video equipment on the wall, including a camera and a power outlet.
Book cover titled "Civil Society" by Anne Marie Cade, with multicolored speech bubbles graphic on a white background.

By Anne Marie Cade

What this book will provide

  • Real tools, not theory — scripts and strategies you can use in your very next hard conversation.

  • Composure under fire — disagree firmly, hold your ground, and never lose the relationship.

  • A stronger council — sharper decisions, fewer complaints, more trust.

  • A role you can sustain — master what happens under pressure so conflict doesn't manage you.

How I can help

  • Icon of three people engaged in a discussion with a speech bubble above.

    Induction and Professional Development

    Meet the yearly mandatory training requirements. Workshops are designed to equip Councillors and teams with the skills needed to manage governance risk, conflict, navigate difficult conversations and cultivate civility.

  • Two abstract figures sitting across a table facing each other

    Mediation

    I create a safe, structured space for open and honest dialogue, helping both parties move from conflict to genuine understanding and a workable way forward. Every conversation is guided with care, impartiality, and a clear structure, so even difficult discussions stay constructive and lead somewhere productive.

  • Two stylized figures shaking hands

    On-demand Coaching

    I provide Mayors and Councillors with the targeted coaching support needed to navigate difficult conversations, become effective communicators and deal with specific conflict issues so you can manage the dynamics within the group with ease.

  • Icon of a person within a target or crosshair

    Policy & Process Advisory

    Clearer policys leads to better processes and stronger systems. Expert guidance on governance issues, complaints handling, facilitation and dispute resolution systems when you need it most. Ongoing, priority access to governance and complaints advisory support.

Clients

Award winning Lawyer, Mediator, former Mayor

A woman with long, wavy hair smiling outdoors, holding a green phone, standing near a concrete ledge with buildings and greenery in the background.

Anne-Marie Cade

I provide civility training for local government in Australia. I love working with local government leaders and teaching them the practical tools and strategies to improve their governance capability, manage conflict effectively and foster collaborative working relationships. What is unique about me is that I have lived experience in the role.

Why choose me

  • Accredited Dispute Resolution Professional and Lawyer with over 25 years of experience, Insured

  • Former Mayor, Deputy Mayor & Councillor

  • Deep understanding of local government and the public sector

  • Recognised nationally & internationally for mediation, coaching and training

  • Author

  • Trusted by Councils, Councillors, Governance staff, and leaders in the Public Sector across Australia

  • Trauma-informed and culturally aware solutions

Logo of the Resolution Institute with colorful curved lines and the text 'Resolution Institute'.

2024 Service to Dispute Resolution

Logo for the Australian ADR Conference & Awards 2024, featuring a stylized 'A' and 'J' in blue and gold.

Conflict Coach of the Year

ADR Project of the Year

ADR Innovation of the Year

Gold and white award badge for the 2023 Australasian Law Awards, winner.

Mediator of the year

Invite Anne-Marie to speak at your next event. Her presentations on navigating incivility are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. Her insights into human behavior and conflict management have made her a sought-after speaker.

Check out the Podcast

Partial view of a woman with long wavy blond hair dressed in a white shirt and black blazer, holding a smartphone, against a peach-colored background with text about a council meeting.

Get in touch to find out more about how to create a culture of civility