Positive progress reflected in annual Community Satisfaction Survey
Results are in for the annual Community Satisfaction Survey with significant improvements across the board, reversing a downward trend from previous years.
Held annually, the Community Satisfaction Survey measures community perceptions of key areas including Council’s overall performance, value for money in services and infrastructure, community consultation and engagement, decisions made in the interest of the community, customer service, local infrastructure, facilities, services and overall Council direction.
In Baw Baw Shire, a representative sample of 400 residents were contacted via phone by an independent research company on behalf of Local Government Victoria.
The top three performing areas for Baw Baw Shire Council include the arts centre and libraries, appearance of public areas and waste management – with results on par or higher with similar sized Councils. Customer service, recreational facilities and advocacy/lobbying also achieved improved results in comparison to previous years.
When asked what the best thing about Baw Baw Shire Council is, responses included local parks and gardens, good customer service, waste management including hard waste and tips, recreational/sporting facilities, clean and tidy public areas, good location, good community facilities, good atmosphere around neighbourhoods and a perceived overall effort to improve.
Compared with other large rural Councils, Baw Baw Shire Council recorded strong results. Ten of the 14 service areas were on par with similar municipalities, while three areas recorded results significantly above the group average.
Perceptions improved across almost all demographic and geographic groups over the past 12 months, with many recording statistically significant increases. Residents aged 65 years and over rated Council’s overall performance significantly higher than the survey average.
Baw Baw Shire Mayor Councillor Kate Wilson said it was great to see improved results and community sentiment trending in the right direction.
“Since the beginning of this term, Councillors have been focused on addressing areas of concern identified in previous Community Satisfaction Surveys. We’ve made an intentional effort to incorporate these priorities into our Council Plan, ensuring a strategic approach to improve service delivery,” Cr Wilson said.
“Most importantly, these results reinforce the value of listening to our community. This feedback will continue to inform our planning and decision-making helping us deliver services and initiatives that respond to evolving local needs. Councillors and staff remain committed to building on this progress and continuing the work required to improve community satisfaction into the future.”
Local roads, town planning and planning permits were among the lowest ranking areas, however still recorded improvements from previous years.
“We thank everyone who took the time to provide honest and constructive feedback. While we recognise there is always more work to do, it is encouraging to see positive movement and evidence that our refocussed efforts are making a difference”, Cr Wilson said.
To review the full survey results, please visit Community Satisfaction Survey
