Adopted in December, the 2026-2030 Community Engagement Strategy outlines the council’s commitment to provide residents with genuine opportunities to have their say on issues that affect them.
Mayor Garner Smith said it was the council’s role to represent and serve its communities.
“This can only be achieved through effective communication and engagement, and by actively listening and responding to the needs and feedback of our community,” he said.
“The 2026-2030 Community Engagement Strategy ... ensures the community not only has access to relevant information, but also opportunities to contribute to the decision-making process.”
The strategy aligns with international standards, and outlines 27 actions to better inform decisions in planning, services, budgets, projects and policies.
Cr Smith said feedback from last year’s How Can Council Work With You? survey helped to inform the strategy.
Outcomes from the survey included the development of an annual community pop-up session program, continued use of online surveys and digital council communications.
To view the 2026-2030 Community Engagement Strategy, click on the Strategic Documents heading at gsc.vic.gov.au/documents