Council recently concluded our most extensive community engagement campaign, ‘Have Your Say on Our Next Ten Years,’ with remarkable participation from the community.
Running from 12 May to 23 June, the campaign invited residents, workers, businesses, and visitors to contribute their thoughts and ideas towards shaping the Community Strategic Plan (CSP) for 2025-2035. We received more than 1,000 completed surveys – a record-breaking level of community engagement. This enthusiastic response shows our community is committed to participating in decisions that will shape North Sydney’s future.
The engagement began with a Voice of Youth workshop, the first of its kind for North Sydney Council. More than 50 primary and secondary students from local schools came together to discuss the key issues facing their community, ensuring that the voices of the younger generation were heard and considered in community planning.
The community was then invited to attend community forums focusing on different aspects of North Sydney’s future: Culture and Creativity, Economic Development, Integrated Transport, Open Space and Recreation, and Social Inclusion. Participants heard from and asked questions of expert panelists, who provided insightful commentary. These forums were watched more than 650 times on YouTube.
To ensure a diverse representation of the community had their voices heard, Council hosted two demographically selected workshops. More than 60 participants shared a broad spectrum of perspectives.
Members of the local Aboriginal community were invited to a workshop at The Coal Loader, in partnership with the Murawin consultancy. This event was an important step in honouring and integrating the past, present, and future contributions of First Nations people into our planning.
A specialised creative conversations workshop held at Luna Park focused on activating public spaces and cultural heritage.
Community members were also invited to speak to Council staff and learn more about the opportunity to help shape North Sydney’s future at information stalls at markets around the local government area.
Those who participated went into the draw to win Sydney Film Festival vouchers and $100 Westfield gift vouchers. Congratulations to our winners: Shelley, Randy, Aleena, Linda, Jessica and Chiara.
What’s Next for North Sydney?
Council is now processing the invaluable feedback received and developing ‘Informing Strategies’. These strategies will ensure that Council’s services and projects align with the community’s priorities. Once these strategies are established, we will invite you to vote on the listed priorities, helping to identify the most crucial initiatives.
Following this, a draft CSP will be created and exhibited for further community feedback. This process ensures transparency and continuous community involvement. The finalised CSP will help build detailed delivery programs and operational plans, demonstrating how Council will implement these strategic initiatives over the coming years.
