Updated Community Engagement Policy Reinforces Council's Commitment to Supporting Meaningful Community Involvement
Wattle Range Council is inviting the community to provide feedback on its Draft Community Engagement Policy, which outlines how the community can expect to engage with Council and contribute to local decision-making.
Council’s current policy has been updated to align with changes to the Local Government Act 1999 (the Act) and South Australia's new Community Engagement Charter, which provides a consistent approach to community engagement across all councils.
Under the Act, every South Australian council is required to have a Community Engagement Policy that sets out its commitments, legal obligations and minimum standards for engaging with the community.
Council's Director Corporate Services, Paul Duka, said the updated policy provides clearer guidance on when and how the community is consulted.
"It also outlines minimum standards for how we will inform and go out to the community for feedback."
"Community engagement is an important part of local government, and this policy outlines how Council will involve the community in decision-making processes," Mr Duka said.
"The new policy reflects the Community Engagement Charter and introduces different levels of engagement depending on the significance of a decision and its potential impact on the community."
Under the Charter, decisions are grouped into five categories, each with minimum engagement requirements. Some decisions may only require Council to provide information, while more significant matters require broader consultation and opportunities for community feedback.
Mr Duka encouraged community members to review the draft policy and provide feedback.
"We want to hear from our community about how they would like Council to engage and consult with them in the future," he said.
"Your feedback will help shape the way Council communicates and engages with the community on key matters."
The draft Community Engagement Policy is available for public consultation until on Monday, 10 August 2026.
Community members can view the draft policy and provide feedback by visiting Council's website at www.engage.wattlerange.sa.gov.au
Visit the Wattle Range Council draft Community Engagement Policy project page