Integrated Planning

A new planning and reporting framework for NSW local government has been introduced by the NSW State Government and Local councils in NSW are required to undertake their planning and reporting activities in accordance with the Local Government Act 1993 and the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005. These reforms replace the former Management Plan and Social Plan with an integrated framework. It also includes a new requirement to prepare a long-term Community Strategic Plan and Resourcing Strategy.

Integrated Planning Framework

The new framework recognises that communities do not exist in isolation - they are part of a larger natural, social, economic and political environment that influences and, to a large extent, shapes their future direction. The new framework also opens the way for councils and their communities to have important discussions about funding priorities, service levels and preserving local identity and to plan in partnership for a more sustainable future.

The components of the new framework, and how they fit together are shown below.

 

Integrated Planning Documents 

Each year, Council is required to produce a number of documents that are all interlinked and give the community far more detail about the service expectations as well as the resources and finances available to meet those expectations. The planning documents include;

• Community Strategic Plan (CSP) - An overarching plan prepared by Council and the community which focuses on aspirations and challenges over the next 20 years.
• Resourcing Strategy - Combines an Asset Management Strategy, a Long Term Financial Plan and a Workforce Management Plan. These are all the elements Council needs to consider in working with the community to meet the needs of the CSP.
• Four Year Delivery Program - Outlines the strategies from the CSP that Council is responsible for delivering. 
• One Year Operational Plan - Details Council's activities and budget for the current financial year.

Community Participation

Residents are encouraged to join the Community Reference Group (CRG) and be part of the ongoing process of working with Council and the community on planning for the future. As a member of the CRG you will receive regular newsletters advising of the opportunities to contribute to Councils planning.  You may be invited to complete surveys, make submissions on certain issues or attend consultation workshops.

If you would like to become a CRG member and actively participate in shaping the future of our region, register online below.

Register to become a CRG member