Community Consultation Plan Template
v1.3
Purpose. Officers use this template to plan a community consultation so that the shire meets its community engagement obligations and residents know how their input will be used.
1.Purpose of the plan
The Local Government Act 2020 requires the shire to engage the community on matters that affect them. A consultation plan must be completed and approved by the responsible manager before any public consultation begins.
2.Defining the decision
State clearly what decision council will make, what is negotiable and what is not. Residents must be told what level of influence they have: inform, consult, involve or collaborate.
3.Identifying stakeholders
List the groups affected, including groups that are harder to reach such as young people, older residents, farmers, people with disability and Aboriginal community members. Explain how each group will be reached.
4.Methods and timing
Choose methods that suit the stakeholders and the decision. A consultation must run for at least four weeks unless the manager approves a shorter period for an urgent matter.
- Online survey on the engagement portal
- Drop-in session at a library or hall
- Targeted meeting with a committee
- Pop-up stall at a market or event
- Letter or flyer to affected properties
5.Reporting back
State how participants will learn what was heard and how it influenced the decision. A consultation summary must be published within six weeks of the consultation closing.
6.Resources and risks
Identify the staff, budget and materials needed and any risks to the consultation, such as low participation or a contested issue, and how they will be managed.