East Gippsland Shire Council wants to understand and reflect the aspirations of our community, investors, service providers and visitors in developing its new Council Plan.

The Community Perceptions Survey has been released and will help do just that. Conducted every four years, the survey helps inform the new councillor group as they set the strategic direction of the Council through the Council Plan.

Mayor Cr Mendy Urie encourages everyone to have their say of the future of the shire by completing the survey.

“There’s no better time than now to tell us about your community and the aspirations for your town and/or region,” Cr Urie said.

“East Gippsland has dealt with the impacts of drought, major bushfires, COVID-19 and industry changes over recent years, and we expect that these events will bring changes to the way we all, including Council, continue to live and do business.

“Our communities are strong and resilient, but it’s important the Council Plan is informed by what the community considers to be important in how Council ensures that service delivery reflects the changes we have all been through.”

The new Council has made it clear that it wants to listen to the community and seek feedback and input into all major decision making, including the formation of the Council Plan.

“What emerging opportunities do you see?” asks Cr Urie.

“This is a time to think of the new possibilities for East Gippsland. It’s not about doing everything the same; it’s an exciting time where we can look to make room for the new and different.”

The survey is available through our website and hard copies can be picked up at any of our customer service centres. It will also be distributed to local community groups.

“In addition to this survey we will also be using other community forums and engagement over recent months, including from bushfire recovery, business groups and place planning to develop the Council Plan,” Cr Urie said.

“There will be other dedicated engagement activities to develop the Council Plan in the New Year, so we encourage you to look out for these and participate where you can. We appreciate you taking the time to provide your valuable feedback.”

All details and individual responses are confidential. If you have any questions about the survey or Council Plan process, please contact us.

The survey is now available, and responses are due by Friday 29 January 2021. Visit https://yoursay.eastgippsland.vic.gov.au/council-plan-community-survey

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