Council’s Draft Our Plan for the Future 2025–2035 presents an integrated strategic roadmap for the Bellingen Shire, detailing the long-term aspirations of the community and the specific actions Council will take to achieve them. This plan brings together the Community Strategic Plan, Delivery Program, and Operational Plan into one streamlined document that reflects the community’s values and priorities.
The Plan outlines strategic directions for the next decade, building on the foundation of the Bellingen Shire Community Vision 2035. It is informed by extensive consultation, including over 1,600 responses from the MARKYT® Community Scorecard survey, as well as workshops and feedback from local stakeholders, Councillors, and Council staff. The Community Scorecard report(PDF, 3MB) is provided as an inclusion on this page.
Throughout the Plan, key actions and initiatives are presented under clearly defined focus areas that align with the community’s vision of being Connected, Sustainable, and Creative. This approach ensures transparency, while making it easier for the community to understand how Council intends to deliver outcomes over time.
This year, Council has adopted a visually simplified and community-friendly format—combining infographic messaging, accessible narrative, and clear links to strategic themes—to enhance understanding and encourage greater engagement with the planning process.
In addition to the main document, the following supporting documents are also available for public review:
These documents were endorsed by Council at its Ordinary Meeting on 16 April 2025 and are now on public exhibition seeking community members to provide feedback.
Additionally this year, we have included the Draft Capital Works Program(PDF, 6MB) document to understand the focus works for 2025/26 relative to spend.
Detailed forward estimates and budget planning is provided in the Draft Long Term Financial Plan 2025-2(PDF, 12MB)6(PDF, 12MB) and Draft Revenue Policy, Schedule of Fees and Charge 2025-26(PDF, 14MB) and should be considered in reviewing this plan.
We encourage you to review the attached documents and provide your feedback before 5pm on Friday 23 May 2025