East Gippsland Shire Council is inviting residents, business owners, visitors, community groups and other interested people to have their say as part of a review of the General Local Law.
Council is reviewing its General Local Law 2017, which is due to expire in December 2027.
The Local Law is reviewed every 10 years and provides the framework for managing a range of local community safety and amenity issues, including unsightly and neglected land, camping on public land, dog management, the use of parks, reserves and public spaces, community events and activities, recreational vehicle use, and the management of activities on council-owned or managed land.
It also helps protect council-owned infrastructure, facilities, and public assets for the benefit of the community.
Beginning the review now allows sufficient time for community input, policy development, statutory consultation and consideration by council before a new Local Law is adopted.
Local laws are an important tool that helps council respond to local issues and community needs in a way that reflects the unique characteristics of East Gippsland.
They help protect public amenity, safety and the environment, while regulating activities on council-managed land, roads and public places.
The review provides an opportunity for the community to share experiences, raise concerns and suggest areas for improvement.
This is the first stage of consultation and is focused on understanding community experiences, concerns and priorities.
No changes to the Local Law are proposed at this stage. Feedback gathered through this initial consultation will help identify key issues and inform the development of potential options for further community consideration.
Council wants to ensure the Local Law is relevant, easy to understand, fair and practical, while managing risk, reducing red tape where possible, and meeting legal requirements.
The feedback will help inform whether the General Local Law continues to meet the needs and expectations of community, businesses and visitors.
Mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth said the review was an important opportunity to consider whether the Local Law continues to support a safe, accessible and well-managed community.
“We’re starting by listening to the community. Local laws help us manage the shared spaces and everyday activities that are important to our community, while responding to the unique needs of East Gippsland,” Cr Ashworth said.
“This review gives our community an opportunity to tell us what is working well, raise any concerns and help identify where changes may be needed.”
Cr Ashworth encouraged residents, businesses, visitors and community groups to participate in the consultation.
“Everyone has a role to play in shaping the local rules that affect our everyday lives, from how we use public spaces to how we manage issues that can impact our neighbours and the wider community,” she said.
“We want to hear a broad range of perspectives so we can make sure the Local Law is clear, practical and continues to reflect the needs of our community for the next 10 years.”
The consultation is open until Friday, October 2.
People can complete the survey and provide feedback through YourSay East Gippsland.
Feedback from this first round of engagement will be analysed and used to identify key themes and issues for further investigation.
Council will continue to engage with the community as the review progresses and before any proposed changes to the General Local Law are considered.
