Update: Community Engagement Policy Deadline Fast Approaching

Councils are reminded that the deadline to formally adopt a community engagement policy pursuant to Section 50A of the Local Government Act 1999 is 11 September 2026.

This date marks the end of the nine month transitional period that commenced on 11 December 2025, following the introduction of the Community Engagement Charter (Charter) by the Minister for Local Government. 

As discussed in our December 2025 article, What are we getting for Christmas? A Community Engagement Charter!, Councils are required to adopt a community engagement policy that is consistent with and complies with the Charter. The Charter introduces a new framework for community engagement, including mandatory consultation requirements for a range of statutory decisions. 

With less than six weeks remaining until the deadline, Councils that have not yet finalised their policies should ensure the necessary work is prioritised to allow sufficient time for formal adoption. 

We also remind Councils that they may continue using their current consultation policy until three months after adopting the new community engagement policy. 

Please contact Felice D’Agostino on fdagostino@normans.com.au or Dale Mazzachi on dmazzachi@normans.com.au with any queries regarding the new consultation obligations or for assistance in drafting a compliant policy.