Latrobe City Council Adopts Community Engagement Policy
Latrobe City Council adopted its updated Community Engagement Policy at this week’s Council Meeting, reaffirming its commitment to inclusive, transparent and consistent engagement with the community.
The policy aligns with the requirements of the Local Government Act 2020 and reflects feedback received through a comprehensive engagement process held from February to March this year. Most respondents supported the principles outlined in the draft, with the principle identified as most important was: “Participants in community engagement must have access to objective, relevant and timely information to inform their participation.”
Latrobe City Council Mayor, Councillor Dale Harriman, welcomed the policy’s adoption noting that it plays a critical role in ensuring the community’s voice remains central to Council decision-making.
“Community engagement is a vital part of Council’s decision-making. It ensures that we are strongly connected with the variety of views, insights and issues across Latrobe City,” the Mayor said.
“The Community Engagement Policy provides a clear and consistent approach to how Council engages with the community. It outlines the rules, responsibilities and methods that guide effective engagement, ensuring the community can contribute meaningfully to Council decisions.
“I encourage all residents to get involved in upcoming engagement opportunities. You can register for updates through Council’s Have Your Say platform or take part in the range of engagement activities from workshops and pop-up sessions Council holds.”
The policy incorporates the core values of the International Association for Public Participation (IAP2) and defines when deliberative and consultative engagement methods will apply, particularly critical in helping inform the development of Council plans and decisions.
Those wishing to view a copy of Council’s Community Engagement Policy can visit Council’s website www.latrobe.vic.gov.au/community_engagement_policy or Have Your Say platform www.yoursay.latrobe.vic.gov.au
https://www.latrobe.vic.gov.au/news-and-media/Community_Engagement_Policy_Adopted