Municipality seeks to increase community engagement

CITY of Ballarat staff are seeking residents’ feedback on the draft Community Engagement Policy.

The current policy was adopted in 2021, and the review aims to ensure the policy remains relevant and reflects the goals of the newly elected council.

Amendments to the updated policy include considering round table style discussions for projects that would benefit from review by diverse members of the community and adding annual and localised events to increase opportunities for participation.

Further changes include highlighting the need to consider opportunities for face-to-face engagement and enhancing the evaluation process.

Mayor Cr Tracey Hargreaves said progress has already been made towards introducing more community engagement opportunities.

The Let’s Chat Community Expo was held in March while Let’s Chat councillor sessions in each ward are ongoing.

“We really want to hear from the community as early as possible when we make decisions and engage with those who are most impacted and affected,” Cr Hargreaves said.

“The review of the community engagement policy follows the same process – we want the community involved in it and to help shape it.

“I encourage people to read the draft policy and share their feedback with us.”

Feedback can be provided until Friday 11 July on the City of Ballarat’s MySay page.