West Wimmera Shire Council is committed to ensuring that community voices help shape the future of the region. Council is currently reviewing its Community Engagement Policy and invites feedback from residents, community groups, and stakeholders.
What is the Community Engagement Policy?
The Community Engagement Policy outlines how West Wimmera Shire Council involves the community in making decisions about the four-year Councils Plan, Rates and Revenue Plan, annual budgets, major projects, policies, strategies and other important matters.
The policy sets a clear standard for engagement based on the significance, complexity, and potential impact of Council decisions.
Key principles of the policy include:
- Offering opportunities for the community to contribute to Council decisions
- Ensuring clear and effective communication between Council and the community
- Providing fair and inclusive opportunities for community representation
- Promoting transparent decision-making that considers a wide range of perspectives
- Ensuring engagement activities are planned and purposeful
This review is an opportunity to ensure the policy reflects community expectations and supports strong partnerships between Council and the people it serves.
Why this matters
Community engagement helps Council to:
- Understand and respond to the diverse needs of our residents
- Make informed decisions with greater transparency and accountability
- Build trust and stronger relationships with community members
- Deliver better outcomes that reflect shared goals
By reviewing the policy, Council is strengthening its commitment to inclusive and transparent governance.
How you can be involved
Read the policy
View the Draft Community Engagement Policy below, or view a printed copy at Council’s Customer Service Centres at 25 Baker Street, Kaniva, or 49 Elizabeth Street, Edenhope
Read the Draft Community Engagement Policy(PDF, 1MB)
Provide feedback
Community members are encouraged to provide feedback on the Draft Community Engagement Policy. All feedback will be reviewed by Council and considered before the plan is formally adopted.
Submissions must be received no later than 5pm on July 14.
Feedback can be emailed to: council@westwimmera.vic.gov.au
Your feedback helps ensure the Community Engagement Policy continues to reflect the values, expectations, and needs of our communities.