The Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey results are in, and Surf Coast Shire Council has again rated above the average for the state and comparison councils.
Surf Coast Shire Council scored an overall index score of 62. This score is two points up on last year’s result, and above the large rural council average of 58, and the state-wide average of 61.
Coordinated by the Victorian Government, the annual Community Satisfaction Survey consists of a random phone survey to 600 resident and non-resident ratepayers. It was completed in February 2021.
Compared to the 2020 results, Council improved or matched the results in core measures of overall performance, waste management, sealed local roads, consultation and engagement and overall council direction.
Surf Coast Shire Council Mayor Libby Stapleton said she was pleased with the results, with all seven core measures either matching or surpassing the average scores for similar-sized councils.
“We saw a significant six-point jump in satisfaction levels with waste management. This shows encouraging support for our new four-bin kerbside waste system, which has seen 33 per cent less waste sent to landfill.”
The three areas where Surf Coast Shire Council performed significantly higher than the state average were slashing and weed control, unsealed roads and local paths and footpaths.
The three areas identified for improvement when compared to the state-wide average were arts centres and libraries, disadvantaged support services and elderly support services.
Mayor Stapleton said the survey provided further insights to areas for improvement and that work was underway to help address these three areas.
“The Multi Arts Centre Torquay recently moved into the former Surf Coast Sport and Recreation Centre and feasibility planning is well underway on the cultural facility and library project, which has the potential to create some exciting opportunities for locals and visitors.”
“In terms of boosting support services, Council has just developed a draft Social Housing Plan and we’re implementing our Age Friendly Strategy 2020-24, which is aimed at ensuring residents can age well in the place where they live.”
