What is Community Engagement in Local Government?
Community engagement brings together diverse perspectives to improve the impact of policies and projects on people. In local government, it should provide individuals, stakeholders, and community groups the opportunity to understand and contribute to projects and policies.
Why is Engagement important?
Council considers community engagement and public participation an essential component of good governance and leadership.
Community engagement provides opportunities for the community to be involved in planning and decision making because understanding the values, needs, aspirations, concerns and ideas of the community improves Council’s planning and delivery of services.
When do we engage?
Council aims to engage early in the planning stage for any changes to or introduction of new services, facilities, policies or local laws that impact the community, including Council’s budget. It may occur at several stages in the lead up to final plans or decisions. The greater the impact on the community or stakeholder, the more interactive the consultation will be.
How does Council Engage?
The tools and methods used make a big difference to who can participate and how meaningful the feedback is. Engagement activities will vary depending on the project or decision, stakeholders involved, and the level of participation selected. Projects or decisions will vary according to its context, who it affects and how it impacts them as well as what can be influenced or is achievable.
Information is communicated to the community through a variety of channels including but not limited to Your Say Glenelg, social media, Council website, direct mail, email, or harnessing the support of community groups to promote engagement through their communication channels.
How can you get involved?
Your Say Glenelg is the Council's online community engagement hub, where you join the conversation and "Have Your Say". You will receive notifications when new projects are listed, project updates are added and when feedback is open.
Find out more information on how to join the Your Say Glenelg community here
Join the conversation and have Your Say Glenelg!