We know not everyone has equal access to technology, so in these changes we’ve made, we’re striving to reach more of you than ever before.

Until this week, Council was required to advertise notices of development applications on exhibition, as well some other public exhibitions, in a local newspaper circulated within the local government area. This regulation had been in place since the 1990s, when the communication landscape was very different. No one had the internet in their homes, computer literacy was low and we certainly didn’t carry the internet around in our pockets.

The world has changed immensely since that time and is continuing to change faster than ever before. The global pandemic we’re currently facing has forced yet more change, and we’re all pivoting where we can. Like so many businesses and organisations, Council’s revenue has been significantly affected due to COVID-19 and we’re seizing every opportunity we can to save money for our community. Council, like everyone, is doing its best in the current circumstances.

As a result of these changes, we’ve committed to being MORE open and MORE transparent than ever before. Where before we ticked the box, we’re now going the extra mile.

• Previously, notices were published on a Thursday in the Examiner, which doesn’t go to every resident or ratepayer. Now, all public notices are in one place on our website, accessible directly from the homepage.
• Previously, we didn’t send notices directly to our community. Now, you can call us and we can send you these notices directly by mail or email.
• Previously, notices were not made available at our libraries. Now, they are available at all our libraries, where our friendly staff can also help you to use the computers and our website.
• Previously, we spent approximately $90,000 every year to advertise the legislated public notices, with any other advertising of events or activities in addition to that. Now, public notices will be communicated using existing resources. The money we will save as a result of no longer placing legislated advertising in the Examiner can be redirected to our COVID-19 response, improving communications overall and achieving Council’s operational objectives.

As always, you can register to become a member of our online Have Your Say engagement hub, where you can get informed about everything that’s happening at Council and have your say directly.

Previously, we communicated by legislation. Now, we’re asking YOU what works best and seeking to improve how we can reach more people now and into the future. Let us know what you'd like to see more of on our Facebook page.