Community engagement is at the heart of local government. It helps communities to be active participants in shaping their own future and play a part in positive change. Councils have a vital role to play in opening opportunities for community members to be involved in the strategic planning process. Community engagement helps Council improve the efficiency, legitimacy and transparency of decision making.

The level of engagement required will depend on the scale and size of the plan, policy or program being proposed. For example, engagement to support development of the Community Strategic Plan (CSP) will include activities to engage the whole community, whereas engagement about a local park upgrade would likely be limited to within a few kilometres of the site.

There are two key strategies that detail how Council will engage with the community.

Community Engagement Strategy

All councils are required to prepare a Community Engagement Strategy (CES) to support development of all their plans, policies, programs and key activities.

The current Community Engagement Strategy was adopted at Council’s Ordinary Meeting on 25 March 2025. The strategy sets out clear principles and guidelines ensuring residents and stakeholders have meaningful opportunities to shape plans and projects for the Central Coast.

Read more about our strategy in the Community Engagement Strategy.

Community Participation Plan

The Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) requires Planning authorities, including councils and NSW agencies with key planning approval functions, to have a Community Participation Plan (CPP). CPPs set out how the planning authority will engage the public in their decision-making.

Central Coast Council reviewed its Community Participation Plan in late 2024 and the plan is currently on exhibition. View the revised draft plan and provide your feedback.