UPDATE: Proposed changes to the Bathurst City Council’s Code of Meeting Practice could drastically reduce the time allocated for public input, with a potential 20% cut to speaking opportunities. The draft amendments have just been released for public feedback, with the exhibition period ending on August 14, 2025.
These changes come as council members express frustration over the current policy committee meetings, which may be eliminated from the regular schedule. This shift represents a significant transformation in how residents can engage with their local government, raising concerns about the diminishing avenues for public participation.
The council is proposing to limit the public forum during ordinary meetings to just one hour, down from the current unlimited time, with discussions extending only at the chairperson’s discretion. Additionally, the time each speaker has to address the council may be reduced from five minutes to four minutes. This reduction has been a contentious issue in the past, as councillors have repeatedly rejected similar proposals.
Currently, the public forum at ordinary meetings is strictly for agenda items, but the new proposal would allow speakers to address the council on “any topic relevant to council operations.” This shift could enhance public engagement, but the overall time constraints might limit the effectiveness of these discussions.
Residents have also voiced demands for the public forums to be livestreamed, similar to other segments of council meetings. However, the council has confirmed that this will not be implemented at this time, citing ongoing considerations related to legalities and costs.
The implications of removing the policy committee meeting are significant. Residents may lose the only opportunity to raise non-agenda items directly with all councillors and senior staff during public sessions. As the report indicates, there is a need for further exploration of mechanisms to allow for public input, but the current structure appears to limit options.
In addition, the council is proposing alterations to the order of business during meetings, including retaining the prayer and acknowledgment of country while introducing a new acknowledgment for service personnel. The draft document emphasizes honoring the diverse history of Australia and the community’s shared responsibility.
The council aims to improve transparency by recording individual votes in the minutes and encouraging councillors to minimize mobile phone use during meetings. These changes reflect an effort to foster a more respectful and accountable atmosphere in council proceedings.
Residents are urged to participate in the feedback process by submitting their opinions online via the YourSay Bathurst website, through email at [email protected], or by mail to The General Manager, PMB 17, Bathurst NSW 2795 before the August 14 deadline.
As these proposals are set to be discussed during the July 16, 2025 ordinary meeting, immediate action from residents is crucial to ensure their voices are heard in shaping the future of local governance. The council’s decision could redefine community engagement in Bathurst, making it imperative for residents to stay informed and involved.
