This revised Community Engagement Policy will replace the previous A Voice for All Community Engagement Policy that was adopted on 1 March 2021.
The Policy has been updated following an internal review as well as benchmarking best practice community engagement in the public sector and community consultation.
Community consultation
The updated Policy was shared with the community and feedback encouraged during a four-week period of community consultation from 2-29 October 2023. Check out the engagement summary report to read more about the engagement undertaken.
This Policy applies to all City of Whittlesea Administrators/Councillors, Council Officers, contractors, external consultants, volunteers or any other persons engaged by Council to deliver community engagement activities. It does not replace statutory processes relating to permit applications and planning scheme amendments governed by the Planning and Environment Act 1987 and associated regulations. Nor does it apply to other council processes such as service requests or complaints.
Key differences
While the updated policy is not substantially
different in intent to the original, it seeks to reflect the maturation of the
engagement function at the City of Whittlesea in recent years including:
A clearer focus on clarifying expectations and articulating Council's commitment to the engagement principles as outlined in the Local Government Act 2020 (VIC)
Being clear with the community around their level of influence; community feedback is considered in decision-making but not the only deciding factor.
Transparency around circumstances where engagement may be limited or not appropriate
Ensuring all relevant legislation is referred to clearly.
To remain updated on opportunities to share feedback and help shape Council decisions to make Whittlesea A Place For All, join the Engage Whittlesea community and you’ll be notified of available opportunities.
