To secure more significant input from industry in Australian college programs, a number of mechanisms exist, including college councils. A study surveyed the operation of existing councils from the perspective of college administrators, using an extensive questionnaire, and from the perspective of members of a number of councils perceived as effective, through interviews. About 150 of the approximately 200 technical and further education colleges that were surveyed responded. One of the most conspicuous features to emerge from the study was a recognition of the uniqueness of individual councils. This unique character is clearly part of the fabric of each college and should be maintained, but the research showed that most colleges were not making full use of the competencies of their council. Analysis of effective college councils revealed a number of common strategies: (1) well-defined council goals; (2) the provision of orientation and/or staff development for council members; (3) membership representative of the college community; and (4) the development of a genuine partnership between college administrators and the council. The study concluded that most of the strategies identified could be implemented relatively simply, although they may need to be accompanied by some attitudinal changes. (Includes the questionnaire and 64 references.) (Author/KC)