The Town recognises the importance of engaging meaningfully with its community to ensure that its citizens are able to participate and influence the decision-making process.
While there are many methods in which the Town promotes public participation and engages with the community, advisory groups are intended to give community members a formal avenue to advise Council on a specific matter, whilst working groups are intended to empower and support the community in delivering strategic outcomes in partnership with the Town.
Frequently asked questions
What is an advisory group?
An advisory group provides advice on a specific matter that contributes to achieving strategic outcomes in the Town's Strategic Community Plan (insert hyperlink to doc). The specific matter that a group is to focus on is included within their terms of reference.
What is a working group?
A working group is established to develop a policy and/or strategic document for the Town, to be adopted by Council in the future.
How are advisory and working groups established?
Groups are established through a formal decision of Council.
Who can be part of an advisory or working group?
Groups consist of elected members, community members and Town officers.
How can I join an advisory or working group?
Once an advisory or working group is established by Council, the Town will call for expressions of interest to appoint community members to the group. These will be advertised via Town communication channels, including the ‘news’ section on this website’s home page. Applicants will be assessed based on a set criteria, and those successful will be appointed to groups by Council.