Key Engagement Events and Dates

Background

The Shire of Chittering is committed to ensuring that our long-term planning continues to reflect the aspirations, values, and evolving needs of our community. As part of our integrated planning responsibilities under the Local Government Act 1995, local governments must review their Strategic Community Plan every four years—and for Chittering, that next major review is just around the corner.

Our Strategic Community Plan 2024 – 2034, adopted in June 2024, builds on the work of our previous full review conducted in 2021/22. This plan captures a shared community vision for inclusive, connected, and resilient rural living; sustainable economic development; and stewardship of our unique natural environment.

To ensure our planning continues to align with community priorities, the Shire will soon begin its next full review process in 2025/26. This review will include extensive community engagement and will be an opportunity to reflect on what has changed, what we’ve achieved, and where we want to go.

This review will also coincide with legislative changes introducing a new Council Plan — a simplified and streamlined document that will combine the Strategic Community Plan and Corporate Business Plan into one clear strategy for the future. It’s about creating a plan that is accessible, transparent, and responsive.

We encourage everyone in our community — from Bindoon to Lower Chittering, Muchea to Wannamal — to get involved. Your input will help shape the Shire’s priorities and ensure that our plans genuinely reflect the community’s voice.

Together, we can continue building a vibrant, sustainable and well-connected Shire that honours its rural identity while planning confidently for the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Council Plan (CP) 2026–2036?

The Council Plan is a strategic document that outlines the Shire’s vision, priorities, and direction for the next ten years. It helps guide decisions on planning, services, infrastructure, and community development.

Why is the Council Plan being developed now?

This Council Plan builds on the 2024–2034 Strategic Community Plan and will reflect updated community priorities and aspirations, emerging opportunities and challenges. Under new state legislation, Strategic Community Plans are being replaced with 10-year Council Plans that must be reviewed every eight years.

What topics are part of this engagement?

We want to hear your thoughts on what matters most to you, including growth, environment, infrastructure, community services, support for youth and older residents, economic development, tourism, and population changes. You’re also welcome to share any creative ideas or aspirations for the future of Chittering.

Who can participate in the engagement process?

Everyone! All residents, ratepayers, businesses, community groups, and stakeholders—whether long-time locals, business owners or new arrivals—are encouraged to have their say.

Why should I get involved?

Your input helps shape future services, infrastructure, and community priorities. Every voice matters in planning a future that reflects our shared aspirations.

How can I provide my feedback?

You can participate via online or printed surveys, attend community workshops or pop-ups, or contact the Shire directly. All details are available on the project webpage.

What happens to the feedback I provide?

All feedback will be analysed and reported on. Key themes and ideas will inform the draft Council Plan and be shared back with the community.

Will the Shire listen to what the community says?

Yes. A formal engagement report will summarise community feedback and demonstrate how it has influenced the Council Plan.

What if I suggest something that’s outside the scope of the Council Plan?

Your feedback will still be noted and ‘parked’ for future consideration. Some ideas may relate to state or federal responsibilities or may not be immediately deliverable.

What topics are part of this engagement?

We want to hear your thoughts on growth, environment, infrastructure, community services, youth, ageing, economic development, population growth, tourism, and more.

How will the Shire manage different or conflicting opinions from the community?

We aim to capture a broad range of views and will use these to identify shared priorities. All input will be considered respectfully and equitably.

What methods are being used to reach different community groups?

We’re using face-to-face events, printed materials, digital channels (like Facebook and Instagram), community networks, and partnerships with local groups to reach all demographics, including youth, seniors, CALD, and Aboriginal communities.

How will you engage ‘lesser heard’ or marginalised groups?

We’re working with local service providers and community associations, using targeted communications and outreach to ensure everyone can participate.

What community events will feature engagement opportunities?

Engagement via pop up stalls will be part of events like Taste of Chittering on 31 August 2025, the Food Truck Night on 5 September 2025 and local sports matches at Muchea. There will also be four community workshops, one each in lower Chittering, Bindoon, Muchea, and Wannamal.

Will Councillors and Council executives be involved in the engagement process?

Yes, Councillors and members of the Shire leadership team will attend and observe events and help to promote the engagement process. They will also be involved in Council workshops to develop the Council Plan and ensure your feedback is acknowledged and considered. These workshops will be independently facilitated.

How is this process being kept politically neutral, especially before the October 2025 elections?

Engagement is being facilitated by an independent consultant and grounded in community-led input. The process is transparent, impartial, and focused on community priorities.

How will the Shire ensure community feedback isn’t ignored?

Feedback will be publicly reported, and the Shire will continue communicating how it is being used in the draft and final Council Plan. The draft Council Plan will be made available for public comment before it is finalised for adoption by Council.

What is the timeline for the development of the Council Plan?

Community engagement starts at the beginning of August 2025 and concludes in mid-September 2025, prior to the local government elections. Internal planning will begin in November 2025 with the new Council. The draft Council Plan is expected to be completed by March 2026 and will go out for public comment before being finalised and adopted by Council in April/May 2026.

Will there be updates throughout the process?
Yes. The Shire of Chittering staff will provide regular updates as the plan progresses.

Where can I get more information?
Information will be shared via the Shire of Chittering’s monthly Chatter Newsletter in the Northern Valleys News; in the monthly eChatter online newsletter; on public notice boards; on the Shire of Chittering's Have Your Say Facebook Page, and on the Shire website at:  https://www.chittering.wa.gov.au/consultations/

You can also view the Shire’s 2024-2028 Corporate Business Plan here:  https://www.chittering.wa.gov.au/documents/584/corporate-business-plan-2024-2028

Written feedback on the development of the 2026-2036 Council Plan can be provided:  By post to Shire of Chittering, PO Box 70, Bindoon WA 6502 or by email to chatter@chittering.wa.gov.au