UPDATE: Proposed changes to the Code of Meeting Practice could drastically reduce public participation at Bathurst Council meetings, with a potential 20% cut in the time allotted for individuals to address council members. This urgent development comes as council staff prepare to present the draft document for public feedback during a 28-day exhibition period, ending on August 14, 2025.
The council’s ordinary meeting on July 16, 2025, will address these significant changes, aiming to streamline operations amid growing frustrations from some councillors over the current policy committee meetings. These sessions, which have been a longstanding opportunity for public engagement, may be eliminated altogether, leaving residents with diminished chances to voice their concerns.
Currently, the monthly policy committee meeting hosts a public forum, one of only two opportunities each month for residents to speak directly to all councillors and senior staff. If the upcoming amendments are approved, this forum may be restricted to just one hour, with speaking time for each individual reduced from five minutes to four minutes. This shift raises pressing questions about the future of public discourse in local governance.
Critics argue that limiting public speaking time undermines community engagement and transparency. The proposed changes would also eliminate the opportunity for councillors to raise non-agenda items during public meetings, further restricting debate and discussion. As one report states, “Inclusion of a session in the ordinary meeting has been initially assessed but would appear not to be appropriate.”
The council’s decision to possibly retain the prayer and acknowledgement of country—while adding an acknowledgement to service personnel—reflects an effort to maintain ceremonial traditions amidst operational changes. The proposed wording for this addition emphasizes the council’s commitment to honoring the community and its history, stating, “We honour those who came before us… and all who now call this country home.”
Despite calls for the livestreaming of public forums—similar to other segments of monthly meetings—the council has indicated that this proposal is not currently on the table. The report notes, “At this time it is not proposed to facilitate this,” citing legalities and costs as factors needing further exploration.
Residents are encouraged to voice their opinions on these pivotal changes through the YourSay Bathurst website or by contacting the council directly via email or postal mail. The potential alterations to the council’s engagement strategy have sparked widespread concern, as community members fear that their voices may be silenced.
As Bathurst Council grapples with these proposals, the outcome will undoubtedly impact how residents interact with their local government, making it crucial for community members to engage in this ongoing discussion.
Next Steps: The council will review public submissions before making a final decision on the proposed changes. Residents are urged to act quickly, as the window for feedback closes on August 14, 2025. The trajectory of local governance in Bathurst may hinge on community input at this critical juncture.
