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Budget Negotiation Skills That Actually Work

Most people walk into budget discussions unprepared. They're anxious, unsure what to ask for, or worried they'll price themselves out of opportunities. I've spent years teaching professionals how to change that dynamic.

This isn't about memorising scripts or using aggressive tactics. It's about understanding how financial conversations really work and building the confidence to speak up for what you're worth.

680+ Participants trained
12 weeks Practical learning
2026 Next intake
Professional budget planning and negotiation materials on desk

How the Program Works

We break down complex financial negotiations into manageable steps. Each phase builds on the last, so you're never overwhelmed but always progressing.

Foundation and Research

You can't negotiate effectively without knowing the landscape. We start with market research methods, understanding budget cycles, and identifying decision-makers. You'll learn how to gather information without showing your hand too early.

Weeks 1-3

Building Your Case

Numbers tell stories, but only if you arrange them properly. This phase focuses on presenting financial requests in ways that make sense to budget holders. We cover documentation, comparative analysis, and addressing common objections before they arise.

Weeks 4-6

Conversation Techniques

The actual discussion is where preparation meets reality. We practise different scenarios, handle pushback, and develop flexibility when conversations don't go as planned. You'll role-play with real examples from your own situations.

Weeks 7-9

Real-World Application

Theory only matters if you can use it. In the final weeks, you'll apply everything to an actual negotiation you're facing. We provide feedback, adjust strategies, and help you prepare for the specific people and circumstances you'll encounter.

Weeks 10-12

Who You'll Learn From

Our instructors have handled budget negotiations across different industries and organisational sizes. They know what works in boardrooms and what actually happens when theory meets practice.

Instructor Petra Lindholm

Petra Lindholm

Budget Strategy Consultant

Petra spent fourteen years negotiating departmental budgets in healthcare organisations. She's particularly skilled at helping people navigate complex approval processes where multiple stakeholders need convincing.

Instructor Saoirse Dempsey

Saoirse Dempsey

Financial Communications Specialist

Saoirse works with non-profit leaders who often need to make compelling cases with limited resources. She teaches how to frame budget requests around outcomes rather than just costs, which changes the entire conversation.

Upcoming Sessions

Sessions run for three months with weekly live workshops and ongoing support between meetings. Choose the intake that fits your schedule.

Starting June 2026

Winter Intensive Program

Twelve-week program with Thursday evening sessions. Perfect if you're preparing for mid-year budget reviews or upcoming project proposals.

Time: 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Format: Live Online
Group Size: Max 15 people
Starting August 2026

Weekend Accelerated Track

Same comprehensive content delivered over six full-day Saturday sessions. Better for busy professionals who prefer concentrated learning blocks.

Time: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Format: In-Person Sydney
Group Size: Max 12 people
Starting October 2026

Spring Standard Program

Our most popular format with Tuesday morning sessions. Good timing for people planning ahead for end-of-year budget discussions or early 2027 negotiations.

Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Format: Hybrid Available
Group Size: Max 18 people