Dissatisfaction after ratepayers knocked back from survey

RATEPAYERS have been left confused after being denied an opportunity to participate in the Surf Coast Shire’s community satisfaction survey (CSS) because they were “too old”.

Several community members took to social media to voice their concerns, with some questioning if the phone calls had been part of a potential scam.

Others questioned if discrimination was at play.

Surf Coast Shire general manager of community life Gail Gatt said the CSS aimed to ensure the survey responses captured were representative of the community.

“The community satisfaction survey is run by the state government and conducted by the Australian call centre, National Field Services.

“The survey seeks to capture an accurate representation of the Surf Coast Shire population and so there are quotas on demographics such as age, location, and gender.

“If the call recipient falls outside the remaining quota, they will be advised of this.

“Any instance of a willing call recipient not being interviewed is because they have the maximum number possible for the age group concerned.”

This year, 600 interviews with randomly selected ratepayers over the age of 18 will be conducted across the Surf Coast Shire as part of the CSS.

Age demographics have been broken down into four brackets for the survey – 18-34 years, 35-49 years, 50-64 years and 65+ years – with the aim of ensuring the sample gathered is as reflective as possible of the region’s demographic profile.

“It is important every age group is represented in this survey, and we thank everyone who participated and is willing to,” Ms Gatt said.

Now in its 25th year, the CSS provides insight into the community’s views on the overall performance of a council across a variety of themes including value for money in services and infrastructure, community consultation and overall council direction.

The CSS will run through February and survey results are expected to be shared with the public in June.