An inquiry into the state government’s community consultation practices has revealed that recent engagements have not consistently followed best practice principles. The report highlighted that the state government’s Public Engagement Framework, which is intended to guide meaningful consultation, has often been applied inconsistently across departments and agencies.
Conducted by the Legislative Council Environment and Planning Committee, the inquiry produced 64 findings and 28 recommendations. Many of these echoed concerns previously raised by Mansfield Shire Council regarding recent government decisions, including the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund Levy and statewide planning reforms under the Better Decisions Made Faster Bill.
The inquiry emphasized the need for genuine consultation that allows communities to participate meaningfully, rather than merely providing information. It also recommended limiting the use of non-disclosure agreements to situations where there is a clear necessity, as such agreements can prevent participants from informing their communities and undermine trust.
Mansfield Shire Council pointed to the levy and planning reforms as examples of inadequate consultation. The ESVF places a disproportionate funding burden on farmers, who make up much of the CFA, while the planning reforms threaten local control over development, allowing high-density projects that may conflict with rural community values.
Mayor Cr Steve Rabie stated that the inquiry’s findings are an important lesson for all levels of government. He stressed that consultation must be meaningful, transparent, and representative, rather than tokenistic. He criticized recent practices, such as the lack of engagement on the ESVF and the use of non-disclosure agreements in planning reform consultations, which erode community trust.
In response, Mansfield Shire Council plans to review and strengthen its own engagement processes. The council is developing a community consultation plan that will allow residents to provide input on engagement practices in Mansfield Shire. Details and a go-live date for this initiative will be announced once finalized.
