35
Why Local Government Matters Mid North Coast Joint Organisation of Councils Results of a Phone Survey (DRAFT) Graphics created by Ullupta conecum re volupta evelignis pe et doluptuam.

Why Local Government Matters - Mid North Coast Joint ... · 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC Levels of

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Page 1: Why Local Government Matters - Mid North Coast Joint ... · 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC Levels of

Why Local Government Matters

Mid North Coast Joint Organisation of Councils

Results of a Phone Survey (DRAFT)

Gra

ph

ics

crea

ted

by

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pta

con

ecu

mre

vo

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taev

elig

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et d

olu

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am.

Page 2: Why Local Government Matters - Mid North Coast Joint ... · 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC Levels of

Research objectives

Provide baseline data to

• Understand what matters about local government across the Mid-North Coast

• Understand strengths of each Council

• Understand what matters regionally, as potential basis for MNCJO work program

Questions on

• Local government (knowledge, what’s important about place, service delivery and governance preferences)

Page 3: Why Local Government Matters - Mid North Coast Joint ... · 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC Levels of

Method

Gra

phic

s c

reate

d b

y

Ullu

pta

conecum

re v

olu

pta

evelig

nis

pe

et

dolu

ptu

am

.

Page 4: Why Local Government Matters - Mid North Coast Joint ... · 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC Levels of

Methods

• Discussions with MNCJO Executive to scope

• Review MNCJO Draft Strategic Plan to align questions

• Review other surveys for comparison questions and data

• Phone survey, fieldwork late February 2019, stratified and proportionate to LGA population

Page 5: Why Local Government Matters - Mid North Coast Joint ... · 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC Levels of

Mid North Coast‘The Place’

Page 6: Why Local Government Matters - Mid North Coast Joint ... · 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC Levels of

Place Attachment – Top 2 BoxResidents of the Mid North Coast love the environment around them.

It enables and reflects their lifestyle, which makes them feel good.

87%

77%

71%

59%

82%78%

43% 42%

89% 88%

65%62%

74% 75%

81%

77%

54%

49%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia

There is somethingabout the landscapethat makes me feel

good

It reflects the type ofperson I am

It has the qualities Ivalue

I feel part of thehistory

I feel at home here The place is full ofimportant memories

and stories

I feel connected tomy friends and

neighbours

Living here makesme feel good about

myself

I feel a culturalconnection to the

place

Page 7: Why Local Government Matters - Mid North Coast Joint ... · 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC Levels of

Regional Comparison

Difference to region

MNC PMHC Bellingen KempseyCoastal Centres

Outlying Areas

There is something about the landscape that makes me feel good

87% 0% -7% 11% -2% -6%

It reflects the type of person I am 71% 0% -1% 2% 2% -8%

It has the qualities I value 82% -1% 1% 1% 0% -4%

I feel part of the history 43% 1% -1% -2% 4% -6%

I feel at home here 89% 0% -5% 6% -1% -3%

The place is full of important memories and stories

65% 0% -2% 3% 2% -11%

I feel connected to my friends and neighbours 74% -4% 3% 8% -6% -3%

Living here makes me feel good about myself 81% 0% -4% 7% -2% -3%

I feel a cultural connection to the place 54% -2% 2% 2% 1% -12%

Where people live on the Mid North Coast influences their attachment to place and lifestyle connection to the region.

Residents of Kempsey and coastal centres have a stronger connection compared to people living in outlying areas.

Page 8: Why Local Government Matters - Mid North Coast Joint ... · 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC Levels of

What’s important about the MNC? (1/2)

52%

36%

63%

29%

52%

25%

40%29%

48%

30%

56%

27%39%

31%42%

22%

53%

33%44% 40%

28%

40%

24%

40%

29%

39%19%

30%

27%

38%

24%

30%

22% 33%

32%

44%

23%

41% 23%38%

12% 19%8%

23%13%

26%

17% 19%

16%24%

12%

21% 19% 19%

19%25%

14% 22%22%

15%

4% 5% 3% 6% 4% 8%

10% 9%

6% 6% 4%

13% 10% 10%

4% 7% 6%4%

7%4%

4% 2% 3% 2% 2% 2%14% 14%

3% 2% 4% 9% 10% 8% 3% 2% 4% 1% 5% 3%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia

Recreational areassuch as parks and

walking tracks

Availability ofpublic services like

schools andhealthcare

A supportive andcohesive

community

Job opportunities A positiveeconomic outlook

Availability of goodhome or aged care

Convenienttransport options

A vibrant andcreative community

Good quality roadsand bridges

Availability ofaffordable housing

Extremely important Very important Moderately important Slightly important Not at all important

Overall, what is important to a Mid North Coast

resident is similar to your average Australian. But

what stands out is just how much these things matter.

Mid North Coast residents do not consider affordable

housing as high a priority as other Australians

These Really Matter to Mid North Coast Residents

Essential Services Social Cohesion

Creative Community Good home and aged care

Page 9: Why Local Government Matters - Mid North Coast Joint ... · 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC Levels of

What’s important about the MNC? (2/2)

63%

42% 44%

24%

59% 58%49%

35%

49%

65% 66%

34% 38%

56% 52%

23%

36% 28%

37%

26% 34%

25%

28%

26%

23% 24%

29% 25%

21% 27%

9%16%

19%29%

10%7%

15%

23%

19%

9% 8%

23% 21%

12%15%

3% 5% 5% 8%2% 2%

6%9%

2% 2% 1%

7% 8%5%

4%2% 1% 4% 2% 2% 0% 4% 7% 3% 1% 1% 6% 7% 5% 2%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC

Levels of water, air andnoise pollution

Shops located nearby thatsuit your needs

A safe public domain andopen spaces

Being close to friends andfamily as you get older

How long ittakes for life

to get back tonormal after a

disaster

Using land,energy and

waterefficiently

The health ofplants and

animals

A culturallydiverse

community

Tourismactivities

Good phoneand internetconnections

Availability oflocally grown

food andproduce

Extremely important Very important Moderately important Slightly important Not at all important

The Mid North Coast lifestyle is clean and green, away

from the hustle and bustle, but connected to friends,

family and the services they need locally. Residents

see a more sustainable future for the region.

Locally

grown foodBiodiversity

Local

shops /

services

Close to

friends

and family

Land, water,

energy

efficiency

Pollution

levels

Good

phone and

internet

Page 10: Why Local Government Matters - Mid North Coast Joint ... · 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC Levels of

Regional ComparisonResidents in smaller communities and outlying areas are less

likely to identify specific features as important place attributes.

For them, it is about ‘the feel’ of the place. Difference to region

MNC PMHC Bellingen KempseyCoastal Centres

Outlying Areas

Using land, energy and water efficiently 91% -1% -1% -2% 2% 1%

The health of plants and animals 88% 2% 3% -3% 0% 2%

Availability of public services like schools and healthcare 87% 3% 1% -10% 9% -7%

Tourism activities 86% -21% -3% 0% 6% -19%

Availability of affordable housing 85% -19% -3% 4% 0% -7%

A supportive and cohesive community 81% 1% 1% -4% 4% -7%

Availability of good home or aged care 81% 3% -7% 3% 4% -7%

Recreational areas such as parks and walking tracks 80% 0% 8% -14% 10% -16%

How long it takes to get back to normal after a disaster 79% -5% 2% 3% -3% 1%

Being close to friends and family as you get older 77% -4% 7% -8% 2% 0%

A vibrant and creative community 76% -3% 12% -11% 4% -7%

Levels of water, air and noise pollution 76% 10% 7% -10% 4% 0%

A positive economic outlook 75% 3% -2% -5% 6% -3%

Good phone and internet connections 75% 5% -2% -4% 5% -1%

Availability of locally grown food and produce 74% 3% 9% -8% 1% 1%

Good quality roads and bridges 73% 5% -7% 5% -1% 3%

A culturally diverse community 66% -6% 11% -8% 3% -9%

A safe public domain and open spaces 64% 23% 2% -8% 7% -8%

Shops located nearby that suit your needs 63% 7% 7% -4% 5% -21%

Convenient transport options 61% 4% -7% -2% 8% -11%

Job opportunities 59% 2% -1% -4% 5% -4%

Page 11: Why Local Government Matters - Mid North Coast Joint ... · 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC Levels of

The Environment

Page 12: Why Local Government Matters - Mid North Coast Joint ... · 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC Levels of

Concern for environmental problems

69%74%

31%26%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MNC NSW

Concerned Not Concerned

66% 65%

58% 58% 57%51% 50%

39%

34% 35%

42% 42% 43%49% 50%

61%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Futuregenerations

Nature Your qualityof life

Othercommunitymembers

Theeconomy

Yourphysicalhealth

Youremotionalwellbeing

Yourfinancialsituation

Yes No

The impact on future generations, plants and

animals, and their lifestyle motivates Mid North

Coast residents’ concern for the environment.

Page 13: Why Local Government Matters - Mid North Coast Joint ... · 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC Levels of

Regional Comparison

Difference to Region

MNCPMHC Bellingen Kempsey

Coastal Centres

Outlying Areas

Concern 69% -1% 3% -1% 1% -2%

Your physical health 51% -2% 4% 1% 0% 0%

Your emotional wellbeing 50% -2% 6% 0% 0% -1%

Your financial situation 39% 0% 0% 0% 0% -1%

Your quality of life 58% -1% 5% -2% 1% -3%

Future generations 66% -1% 3% -1% 1% -3%

The economy 57% 0% 3% -1% 2% -4%

Nature 65% -1% 4% -1% 1% -2%

Other community members 58% -1% 5% -2% 1% -2%

No major differences in how concerned residents in different places are, or what they are concerned about.

Bellingen is clearly the LGA with the strongest environmental conscience whilst residents in outlying areas

tend to be less environmentally conscious.

Page 14: Why Local Government Matters - Mid North Coast Joint ... · 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC Levels of

Climate change impacts

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

Drought Bushfires Sea level rise Intense rainfall Heatwaves Severe storms

Impacts most concerned about

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

Watershortages

due todrought

Floodingfrom severestorms andrain events

Propertydamage from

bushfires

Poor healthdue to

heatwaves

Poor healthdue to

pollution

Flooding dueto sea level

rise

Propertydamage from

storms

Requires greatest attention from government

Mid North Coast residents worry most about the impact of drought and bushfires - they worry about a drying

continent more than the more intense wetter conditions of a changing climate. They think government has to take

more concerted action on securing water, and responding to flooding should be ‘business as usual’.

Page 15: Why Local Government Matters - Mid North Coast Joint ... · 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC Levels of

Regional comparisonDifference to Region

MNC PMHC Bellingen KempseyCoastal Centres

Outlying Areas

Drought 40% 4% -6% 3% 0% 2%

Bushfires 22% 3% -2% -10% -1% 3%

Sea level rise 11% -3% 0% 4% 2% -5%

Intense rainfall 10% -3% 3% 5% 0% 1%

Heatwaves 10% 1% -1% -2% 0% -2%

Severe storms 6% -1% 7% 0% 0% 2%

Difference to region

MNC PMHC Bellingen KempseyCoastal Centres

Outlying Areas

Flooding due to sea level rise 3.81% -1% 3% -2% -1% 2%

Flooding from severe storms and rain events 12.69% -3% 3% 5% -5% 0%

Poor health due to heatwaves 6.09% 0% 0% 0% -1% 3%

Poor health due to pollution 6.09% 0% 0% -1% 1% 0%

Property damage from bushfires 9.77% 0% 0% -1% 0% 3%

Property damage from storms 2.54% -1% 3% -4% 0% 3%

Water shortages due to drought 59.01% 4% -10% 3% 6% -10%

Page 16: Why Local Government Matters - Mid North Coast Joint ... · 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC Levels of

Disaster Planning and Recovery

Page 17: Why Local Government Matters - Mid North Coast Joint ... · 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC Levels of

Disaster planning

12% 14%

28%20%

33%36%

10%

7%

16%23%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Confident they have information to develop ahousehold plan

Confident they have information to develop a businesscontinuity plan

Extremely confident Very confident Moderately confident Slightly confident Not at all confident

47%53%

Have a household plan for what to do in the lead up and after a natural disaster

Yes No

56%44%

Have a plan for business continuity in the lead up and after a natural disaster

Yes No

More businesses than households have a plan for what to do in the event of a natural disaster. More information on

what to include in a plan would benefit up to two thirds of Mid North Coast residents and businesses.

Page 18: Why Local Government Matters - Mid North Coast Joint ... · 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC Levels of

Disaster recovery

14%24%

14%

21%

36%

25%

35%

29%

42%

16%

8%

13%15%

3% 5%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Different parts of government can work together and help thecommunity get back to normal after a disaster

The environment in your area can bounce back from a naturaldisaster

Agriculture and primary producers in your area can bounce backfrom a disaster

Extremely confident Very confident Moderately confident Slightly confident Not at all confident

Whilst Mid North Coast residents highly value locally grown food, they are not confident the region’s agriculture and

primary producers can bounce back from a disaster. They are also not particularly confident governments can help

the community after a disaster.

Page 19: Why Local Government Matters - Mid North Coast Joint ... · 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC Levels of

Regional comparison

Difference to Region

MNC PMHC Bellingen KempseyCoastal Centres

Outlying Areas

Has a household plan for a natural disaster 47% -2% -5% 6% -4% 10%

Has a business continuity plan for a natural disaster 56% 0% -6% 3% -3% 3%

Have the information they need to make a household plan

73% -2% 4% 1% -1% 3%

Have the information they need to make a business continuity plan*

70% -13% 30% 3% 5% -6%

Confident governments can work together during and after a disaster

69% 1% -4% 1% 4% -9%

Confident the environment can bounce back from an environment

89% -1% 2% 1% 0% -1%

Confident agriculture and primary producers can bounce back

81% 0% -1% 1% 2% -4%

*caution, small sample at LGA level

Residents and businesses in outlying areas and smaller communities tend to be more prepared for what to do in a natural

disaster. They are also the most sceptical that governments can work together to support the community during and after.

Those in more heavily populated coastal centres are more confident in government.

Page 20: Why Local Government Matters - Mid North Coast Joint ... · 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC Levels of

Local Government Functions

Page 21: Why Local Government Matters - Mid North Coast Joint ... · 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC Levels of

73%

43%

72%

29%

56%

29%

49%

30%

62%

39%

56%

35%47%

21%

61%

41%51%

27%

19%

39%

20%

42%

26%

45%

31%

39%

26%

42%

27%

39%26%

32%

26%

35%

28%

39%

5%12%

6%

20%

14%21% 13%

21%

8%15% 12%

18%17%

22%

8%

14%12%

24%

2% 4% 2%6%

2% 4% 5% 6%2% 4% 3% 5%

7%

12%

3%7% 6% 7%

2% 2% 1% 3% 2% 1% 3% 4% 2% 1% 2% 3% 4%13%

2% 3% 2% 3%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia

Water, sewage,stormwater, drainage

Roads, bridges andfootpaths

Parks Land use planningand development

applications

Street cleaning andwaste management

Health andenvironmentalmanagement

Child care and agedcare

Emergency anddisaster management

Libraries

Extremely important Very important Moderately important Somewhat important Not important at all

What’s important about what councils do across the MNC do? (1/2)

What’s surprising is not so much what matters about local government to a Mid North Coast

resident, but how much. What councils do is more likely to be very important to a Mid North Coast

resident compared to your average Australian.

Page 22: Why Local Government Matters - Mid North Coast Joint ... · 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC Levels of

What’s important about what councils do across the MNC? (2/2)

48%

23%33%

13%

40%

22%

47%

25%

41%26%

59%

40%52%

24%

58% 58%

32%

41%31%

25%

33%

37%

31%

37%

36%

40%

28%

41%27%

33%

28% 27%

14%

27% 25%

36%

20%

27%

16%

24%

19%26%

8%15% 15%

27%

9% 11%3% 6% 6%

18%

4%9%

4%9%

3% 6% 3% 4% 4%12%

3% 2%2% 3% 5% 8% 3% 4% 2% 5% 2% 2% 3% 1% 2% 3% 2% 2%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC

Sporting and recreationfacilities

Arts and culture Economic development Youth services Communitydevelopment

Planning for the future Promoting the benefitsof the local area

Advocatefor the

needs ofthe

community

Supportslocal

businessand

industry

Extremely important Very important Moderately important Somewhat important Not important at all

But there are some differences in what matters most

to a Mid North Coast resident compared to your

average Australian

Council Responsibilities that Matter Most

Supporting

Business

Advocacy Disaster Mgmt

Strategic Planning Essential Services Parks, sport and rec

Page 23: Why Local Government Matters - Mid North Coast Joint ... · 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC Levels of

What matters more…and less…

Availability of good home or aged care 23%

A supportive and cohesive community 18%

Availability of public services like schools and healthcare 17%

Shops located nearby that suit your needs 12%

Being close to friends and family as you get older 12%

A vibrant and creative community 9%

Levels of water, air and noise pollution 8%

A positive economic outlook 8%

Recreational areas such as parks and walking tracks 5%

Good quality roads and bridges 2%

Job opportunities 0%

Convenient transport options -3%

A safe public domain and open spaces -6%

Availability of affordable housing -12%

To a Mid North Coast resident compared to your average Australian

Page 24: Why Local Government Matters - Mid North Coast Joint ... · 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC Levels of

Regional comparisonResidents in smaller communities tend to value what their

council does more highly, particularly human and environmental

services. Residents in outlying areas do not value it as highly.

There are mixed views on the role of councils in economic

development and promoting the benefits of the area. Difference to Region

MNC PMHC Bellingen Kempsey Coastal Centres

Outlying

Areas

Water, sewage, stormwater, drainage 91% -1% 1% 0% 2% -5%

Roads, bridges and footpaths 91% -1% 1% -1% 0% 0%

Street cleaning and waste management 89% -1% 1% 3% 2% -5%

Emergency and disaster management 87% -1% 3% -4% 2% -5%

Planning for the future 87% 0% -3% 2% 0% -1%

Advocating for the needs of the community 87% -2% 0% 4% 2% -4%

Supporting local business 85% 0% -2% 2% 1% -2%

Parks and gardens 83% 0% 5% -1% 2% -5%

Health and environmental management 83% -2% 2% 4% 1% -2%

Sports facilities 81% 1% -3% 3% 3% -7%

Land use planning and development applications 80% -1% 3% 2% 1% -3%

Libraries 79% 1% 4% -1% 3% -8%

Promoting the benefits of the local area 79% -1% -7% 8% 1% -2%

Youth services 77% 0% 0% 2% 1% -2%

Community development 77% -1% 1% 0% 3% -6%

Economic development 73% -2% -2% 7% 2% -5%

Child care and aged care 72% -1% 0% -1% 0% 0%

Arts and culture 64% 2% -1% 0% 2% -4%

Page 25: Why Local Government Matters - Mid North Coast Joint ... · 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC Levels of

Service Delivery and Governance

Page 26: Why Local Government Matters - Mid North Coast Joint ... · 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC Australia MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC MNC Levels of

Compared to your average Australian, Mid North Coast residents have a more positive view about government and

public servants. They are skeptical of market based service delivery models, and see an enlarged and direct role for

council in service delivery. This sentiment is strongest in smaller communities and outlying areas.

94% 92% 92%95%

86% 87%81% 83% 82%

67% 64% 63%

85% 84% 82% 82%79% 78% 76% 74% 74%

63%59% 58%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

There are somethings like

health care andeducation thatgovernmentsshould deliver

Governmentsshould work

with each otherand otherservice

providers toprovide local

services

Governmentsand

communitiesshould make

decisionstogether abouthow servicesare delivered

I wantgovernments todeliver servicesthat contributeto a healthier

and fairersociety

Communitiesneed to workwith expertsand publicservants tomake good

decisions aboutwhat services

they need

Governmentshould be

advocating forthe needs of my

localcommunity

There is a rolefor governmentin providing anyof the servicesthe community

needs

Governmentsshould use a

mixture ofpublic, privateand not-for-

profitorganisations to

deliver publicservices in my

area

I wantgovernment toinvolve me in

makingdecisions aboutwhat services

are delivered inmy local area

There are someservices thatgovernments

can provide at ahigher quality

than the privatesector

People who areusing a servicewill best knowhow much ofany particular

service isneeded

It is acceptablefor services inone area to be

delivereddifferently toservices in

another area

Australia MNC

Service delivery and governance preferences (1/2) – Top 2 Box

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Service delivery and governance preferences (2/2) – Top 2 Box

62%

51%

43%47%

36%31%

22% 23%25% 25% 25%

19% 21%

56%

41% 41%38%

35% 33%29% 28% 26% 24% 23% 22% 20%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

Communitiesknow enoughto make good

decisions aboutwhat services

they need

The marketshould decidewhat servicesare delivered

based on levelsof demand

I am preparedto pay more

taxes to get abroader range

of publicservices

Serviceproviders have

the bestknowledgeabout how

services shouldbe delivered

Decisionsabout how

services aredelivered in myarea should bemade primarily

on value formoney

Thegovernment ofmy local areahas enough

ability to deliverservices by

itself

There are timeswhen

governmentexceeds myexpectations

The peoplewho work ingovernmenthave enoughknowledge todecide whatservices are

needed in myarea

My taxesshould only pay

for basicservices

Governmentdelivers thebest quality

services

The privatesector deliversthe best value

services

Governmentshould focus onproviding onlybasic services

Government should only

provide services where

the private sector doesn’t

Australia MNC

The preferences of Mid North Coast residents for service delivery and governance models tend to mirror your

average Australian, particularly those living in coastal centres and Port Macquarie-Hastings. But what is surprising

is that these preferences are not as strongly held as the rest of Australia.

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Regional comparisonDifference to Region

MNC PMHC Bellingen Kempsey

Coastal

Centres

Outlying

Areas

I want governments to deliver services that contribute to a healthier and fairer society 90% 0% -1% 3% 1% -2%

Governments should work with each other to deliver services in my area 89% 2% -3% 1% 0% 0%

Governments and communities should make decisions together about how services are delivered 88% -1% 3% 1% 1% -2%

Governments should use a mix of public, private and other organisations to deliver services in my

area 81% 1% -6% 7% 2% -4%

Government should advocate for the needs of my community 80% 3% 1% -4% 0% 0%

Communities need to work with experts and public servants to make good decisions about services

they need 79% 4% -3% -1% 2% -4%

I want government to involve me in making decisions about what services are needed in my area 75% 1% 2% -1% 0% 1%

There is a role for government providing any of the services the community needs 75% 4% -2% -7% 0% 1%

Communities know enough to make good decisions about what services they need 67% -2% 0% 4% -1% 2%

People who use a service will know best how much of any particular service is needed 65% -2% -2% 3% -1% 2%

There are some things like health care and education that only governments should deliver 57% -2% 11% -5% 2% -5%

There are some services that government can provide at a higher quality than the private sector 56% 6% -7% -4% 0% 0%

It is acceptable for services in one area to be delivered differently to another area 54% 0% 6% -5% -3% 8%

I am prepared to pay more taxes to get a broader range of public services 43% 0% 2% 0% 1% -2%

The market should decide what services are delivered based on levels of demand 40% 1% -6% 2% 2% -6%

My taxes should only pay for basic services 35% -3% -2% 9% 1% -3%

Service providers have the best knowledge about how services should be delivered 35% 1% -5% -1% 2% -4%

Decisions about how services are delivered in my area should be made primarily on value for

money 35% 0% -4% 4% 3% -8%

Government should only provide services where the private sector doesn’t 27% -3% 1% 7% 2% -5%

Government delivers the best quality services 26% 2% -4% -1% 0% -1%

The government in my area is capable of delivering services by itself 25% 4% -4% -4% 1% -1%

Government should focus on providing only basic services 25% 1% -1% 4% 0% -1%

The private sector delivers the best value services 24% 0% -4% 4% 1% -3%

There are times when government exceeds my expectations 19% 1% 0% 1% 0% 0%

The people who work in government know enough to decide what services are needed in my area 15% 2% -5% 0% 0% -1%

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Local Government and Communities

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0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Local State Federal

MNC Australia

Level of government best able to make decisions about your area

Like most other Australians, most Mid North Coast residents think local government is best

placed to make decisions about their area.

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Knowledge of local government

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Port Macquarie-Hastings

Bellingen Kempsey Australia

Knowledge of Council Name

Correct (or reasonable attempt) Incorrect / Don't Know

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Bellingen Kempsey Port-MacquarieHastings

Australia

Knowledge of Mayor's Name

Correct (or reasonable attempt) Incorrect / Don't Know

Mid North Coast residents are more aware of who represents them and who to hold to account. They

are more likely to know their council and Mayor than your average Australian.

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Who is part of this community?

Mid North Coast residents arenot as inclusive as youraverage Australian community.

Those in outlying areas andlarge employment centres tendto be less inclusive of renters,students and workers.

Those in smaller communitiestend to be more inclusive.

97%

77% 71%85%

96%87% 84% 89%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Ratepayers Renters Students People who work here

MNC Australia

Difference to Region

MNC PMHC Bellingen KempseyCoastal Centres

Outlying Areas

Ratepayers 97% 0% 0% 1% 0% 0%

Renters 77% -1% -1% 2% 2% -6%

Students 71% 0% 2% -1% 3% -6%

People who work here

85% -2% 0% 3% 1% -2%

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Implications for MNCJO Strategic Plan

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Strategic Plan ImplicationsIn many ways, the Mid North Coast is a bellwether for the many coastal lifestyle regions that dot theAustralian coastline and have been luring people away from the hustle and bustle of big cities. Whilst thereare some differences what residents of each LGA see the role of council being, their views of localgovernment as a highly valued layer of government reflect the average Australian.

There are spatial differences across the region. Those in outer areas and smaller communities, whilstresourceful and resilient, feel forgotten by government. This does not mean they value government any less –in fact, they appear to value it more highly than their counterparts in coastal centres. This is not such a badthing; part of why they live where they do is to be away from the hustle and bustle – including government.But when things go wrong, like a disaster, they expect government to be their. This also means good phoneand web connections, local shops and services are more crucial to these community members.

• Mid North Coast residents are eager for a more sustainable future for the region; one that supports locallymade produce, uses scarce land, energy and water resources wisely, and protects from pollution theunique biodiversity and pristine environment that contribute so much to what makes this a great place forthose who live here.

• Whilst residents want their councils to support local business and industry, particularly agriculture andprimary producers, they have not yet made the link between the crucial role of councils in supportingsustainable economic development and other industries, particularly tourism in the region’s major centres.

• The strategic planning function of the MNCJO is highly supported by the community, as are regionalleadership and advocacy and pursuing shared and direct service delivery between member councils,particularly for highly valued services such as aged and home care.

• There is potential for more work to be done improving social cohesion and inclusion across the region insuch a way that all members of the community are valued for their unique contribution the community, notjust their postcode or status as a resident.

Core MNCJO Functions

Strategic planning and priority setting –

based on robust processes for identifying

regional goals, with the flexibility to respond

to changing priorities and needs of member

councils as required

Intergovernmental collaboration –building

effective working relationships with other

JOs, councils and the NSW and Australian

Governments

Regional leadership and advocacy –

creating a shared purpose and strategic

direction for the region; and a commitment to

constructive and cooperative implementation

by all member councils

Building efficient and effective councils –

by examining opportunities for shared

services and capacity building across the

region.

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Strategic Plan Implications• The following insights from the survey can further inform the MNCJO Strategic Plan

Action Detail Survey insights

1.1Provide regional facilities and services for recreation, sports, arts and culture within the

context of a changing population Parks, sports and rec amongst the most highly valued council functions

1.2Build capacity in the regional community to deal with severe weather events and natural

disasters

Half the community do not have a disaster plan, and up to two thirds

would benefit from information on how to make one

1.3Plan for the regional impact of ageing populations on health services, accessible and

affordable housing and employmentAged and home care amongst the most important council functions

2.1 Plan for the regional impact of climate change on the community, environment, economy

and council services

Intergenerational, biodiversity and community impacts most concerning

to residents – particularly drought, bushfires and water security

2.2 Preserve strategic biodiversity and identify land with high environmental value and

biodiversity corridors across the region

Unique biodiversity and pristine natural environment free of pollution

are major place qualities

3.1 Assess the availability of land across the region for different purposes and instigate cross-

council planning where land is scarce/unavailable for a specific purpose

Using land, energy and water resources efficiently important to this

environmentally conscious region

3.3. Continue to support industries which deliver food security for the region and support a

focus on agriculture and agriculture-related industries

Locally grown food and supporting local business and industry,

particularly agriculture and primary producers, highly valued

3.4 Continue to support tourism as a main regional industry and explore options to ‘keep

tourists in the region’ for longerTourism under-valued across the region, particularly major centres

4.1Support the roll-out of reliable telecommunications and internet access across the region

Good phone and internet considered an essential service across the

region, particularly outlying areas

4.2 Design and create safe public places and preserve the unique regional/local character of

cities, towns and villagesDesign of safe public spaces particularly important in major centres

6.1Effectively work with state and federal governments to ensure resources are available for

the Mid North Coast

The regional leadership and advocacy function of MNCJO is supported,

but this should not dwarf the importance of shared, direct service

delivery