FAQs

The feedback collected during the engagement process highlighted several key themes, which have shaped the development of the draft Community Engagement Strategy:

Desire for Transparency and Accountability
Many respondents expressed frustration about not knowing the outcomes of engagement processes or feeling that their feedback was not valued. This feedback has informed the strategy’s emphasis on “closing the loop” by clearly communicating how community input has influenced Council decisions.

Accessible and Inclusive Engagement
Accessibility challenges were highlighted, with calls for more diverse methods of engagement, such as face-to-face opportunities, better use of digital tools, and formats that accommodate those without internet access. In response, the strategy prioritises accessibility by including both online and offline methods and ensuring communication materials are clear and available in alternative formats.

Proactive Communication
Many community members indicated they were unaware of engagement opportunities. The strategy addresses this by committing to proactive and targeted communication, ensuring residents are informed about projects that affect them.

Variety in Engagement Methods
Preferences for participation varied widely, from quick surveys to more interactive methods like “walk and talk” sessions. The strategy incorporates a diverse range of engagement methods to cater to different preferences and ensure inclusivity.

Internal Support for Engagement
Council staff highlighted the need for better tools, training, and resources to support effective engagement. The strategy includes actions to provide staff training, develop engagement toolkits, and foster a culture of collaboration within Council.

The CES outlines how Cessnock City Council engages with the community. It provides a framework for how we seek your input, from sharing information to involving you in decision-making and ensuring your voices are heard at every level.

The CPP is a legislative requirement that details how and when the community can participate in planning decisions, including development assessments and planning proposals. It sits within the broader CES and focuses specifically on engagement for planning matters.

By integrating the CPP into the CES, we ensure a streamlined and consistent approach to engagement across all Council activities. This integration aligns with recommendations from the Integrated Planning and Reporting (IP&R) Guidelines, which suggest combining community engagement requirements from various legislation wherever practical.

The proposed changes include:

• Removing the requirement to notify neighbouring properties owned by the same DA applicant.
• Adding a requirement for notifications for developments seeking variations under clause 4.6 of the Cessnock Local Environmental Plan.
• Including the MU1 Mixed Use zone in the list of zones where dual occupancies and secondary dwellings do not require notification, provided specific conditions are met.

The challenges were identified through feedback gathered during the development of the strategy, including input from the Community Strategic Plan engagement and internal staff consultation.

Once the exhibition period closes, we’ll review all submissions and feedback. This will help us refine the strategy and CPP before they are finalised and adopted by Council.

We'll provide updates on the outcomes of the public exhibition, including how community feedback influenced the final strategy. Updates will be shared on our website and through Council communication channels.

You can also register for updates through Together Cessnock's Mailing list here.