What is community engagement?
Community engagement provides various opportunities for public involvement in Council decision-making, relationship building and community strengthening.
Effective community engagement allows Council to make informed decisions at both operational and strategic levels, creating a mutual understanding between Council and the community.
Community engagement is achieved when the community is included and not only feels involved in the process but where relevant is driving the process and leading change.
What is the purpose of this strategy?
The Draft Community Engagement Strategy outlines Council’s commitment to engaging the Brighton community and valuing the diverse perspectives, experiences and expertise our community has to offer. We view community engagement as vital for good governance and leadership, recognising the important role our community plays in shaping the Brighton Local Government Area.
Brighton Council’s approach to community engagement is also guided by the Tasmanian Government’s Local Government Priority Reform Program 2024-2026. These reforms will mandate a new local government planning and reporting framework, including a legislated community engagement plan.
The Community Engagement Strategy should be applied at the planning stage of any project or initiative, when a change in service, activities or infrastructure is considered, when an issue is raised and requires a decision or when more information or evidence is required.
