Community engagement is the process by which community and council work together to facilitate community input into council decision making.
Council is committed to meaningful engagement with the community on topics affecting the city, and on local issues that significantly impact on the community. Community engagement is the foundation of good decision-making and is mutually beneficial to the community and council.
Under the Queensland Local Government Act 2009 (Qld), s 4(2)(c) community engagement is a legislative requirement. Council must ensure democratic representation, social inclusion and meaningful community engagement in their decision-making processes.
The benefits of good community engagement include:
- Community helps council better understand issues
- Improved decision making
- Improved efficiencies
- Community gains an improved understanding of council processes
- Greater public acceptance of council’s decisions
- Community networks are strengthened
Community can have their say in shaping the future of Ipswich in several ways. You can register on Shape Your Ipswich to stay informed of projects and provide feedback online. To get more involved, register to join the community panel.