Parkes Shire Council has taken out the title of Outstanding Rural and Remote Council at the 2025 National Awards for Local Government, thanks to its forward-thinking approach to fleet optimisation and asset management.
The award – presented at the Australian Local Government Association National General Assembly Dinner in Canberra on Thursday 26 June – highlights Parkes Shire Council’s “Fleet Optimisation and Innovation – A Smarter Approach to Asset Management” project, which has transformed the way the Council manages its $18 million fleet.
This is the first time the Outstanding Rural and Remote Council category has been included in the national program. Parkes was selected from a competitive field of 54 entries, with honourable mentions going to the Shire of York in Western Australia and Wentworth Shire Council in New South Wales.
Building a Smarter Fleet Management System
Michael O’Shannessy, Fleet and Depot Manager at Parkes Shire Council, said the award reflects years of strategic investment and commitment to improving fleet operations for both the organisation and the community.
“We’re incredibly proud to be recognised on a national stage. This project has reshaped how we manage and maintain Council’s fleet – improving safety, efficiency, and transparency,” Mr O’Shannessy said.
“By building our own system in-house, we’ve not only saved costs but also created a smart, scalable solution tailored to our needs and future growth.”
Instead of opting for expensive off-the-shelf fleet software, Parkes developed its own advanced fleet management system using TechnologyOne. The platform integrates real-time data, predictive maintenance, GPS telematics, and life-cycle cost analysis across all asset classes – from heavy plant to small equipment.
The system now provides full visibility and control over fleet operations, enabling the Council to transition from reactive maintenance to a scheduled and proactive approach. This has led to better asset availability, improved safety outcomes, lower emissions, and long-term cost savings.
Real Results for Council and Community
Independent audit firm Lambourne Partners backed the Council’s in-house development, with Partner Paul Quealey offering high praise for the system and its impact.
“The systems implemented over the last three to four years are some of the best we’ve seen in terms of WHS, scheduled maintenance, forward projections, and use of technology,” Mr Quealey said.
“Parkes is at the forefront in terms of regional councils across NSW – and probably even ahead of a lot of metro councils too.”
“The work the team has done should be commended. They’re driving real value for the Council and community through improved risk management and safety practices.”
The internal audit confirmed that Parkes’ system enhances Work Health and Safety performance and allows for better forecasting and resource planning across its operations. By avoiding third-party software costs, the Council has redirected savings into safety improvements and additional functionality that suits its local needs.
Recognised on the National Stage
Federal Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, Kristy McBain MP, acknowledged the calibre of entries in this year’s awards – with over 160 submissions received and just 11 national winners selected by an independent panel.
“This year saw the most submissions ever received in the history of these awards,” Minister McBain said.
“Your projects and the enormous efforts behind them are having real and positive impacts for communities, bringing them together and elevating local amenity.”
A Model for Other Rural and Remote Councils
Parkes Shire Council’s fleet management success is more than just a local win – it’s a scalable model that demonstrates how smaller and regional councils can manage complex asset portfolios with limited resources.
By combining smart systems, internal capability, and a long-term strategy, Parkes has shown how rural councils can lead the way in innovation, accountability, and service delivery.
With recognition now at the national level, other councils looking to improve fleet operations may find Parkes’ approach to be a valuable roadmap – one that balances cost efficiency with real-world outcomes for staff, community, and environment.
IPWEA Lays the Foundation for Parkes Shire’s Award-Winning Success
Parkes Shire Council’s national recognition can be traced back to its completion of the IPWEA Fleet Management Certificate, which sparked the realisation that a more robust system was needed for managing its $14 million fleet. By applying the course learnings, Council implemented a new system that delivers full financial transparency, governance, and compliance. It now leverages real-time analytics, the IPWEA Whole-of-Life Cost (WOLC) calculator, and predictive maintenance strategies to make smarter, data-driven decisions. The result? A safer, more efficient fleet – and a national award to prove it.
