Byron Shire Council to meet monthly under 2026 changes

A CHANGE to the Byron Shire Council meeting schedule will see councillors meet monthly instead of twice a month from 2026.

The first meeting under the new schedule will be held on Thursday, February 19.

The council said the change aims to streamline and improve internal processes for councillors.

Public access will now run from 9am to 10.30am before each meeting, in line with changes to the NSW Government’s Code of Meeting Practice.

Councillors will continue to hear community views during public access but are no longer permitted to ask questions of speakers.

The restriction on councillor questions was mandated by the NSW Government.

Another state government requirement will also ban signs and flags from the public gallery during council meetings.

Acting director corporate and community services Heather Sills said public participation remained an important part of council meetings.

“Byron Shire Council meetings are generally well attended by members of the public and we hope this continues,” Ms Sills said.

“Public Access and meetings will continue to be livestreamed so people who can’t attend can still keep up-to-speed with Council matters,” she said.

Information about meeting dates, agendas and how to speak during public access is available through the council.