Understanding Views on Water Security and Resilience in The Shire

Published on 20 September 2022

Bellingen Shire community are being asked to take part in a new survey to help Council understand locals’ views on water security.

Council is currently working to strengthen water security and resilience in the Shire by updating its Integrated Water Cycle Management Plan. The plan is designed to ensure that Council can provide a potable water supply while managing the community’s wastewater.

Bellingen Shire Council General Manager, Liz Jeremy, said a top priority for Council was strengthening water security and resilience in the Shire.

“Drought and bushfire in our area are real and constant threats. This places a greater focus on ensuring we are prepared and able to continue to meet the community’s water needs during good times and when we are facing an emergency.”

Council has engaged the University of Newcastle’s Institute for Regional Futures to understand community views and ensure they are considered in the updated Integrated Water Cycle Management Plan.

Institute for Regional Futures Director, Professor Roberta Ryan, said through the survey Council would be seeking the community’s feedback on diverse potential water supply options to support the Lower Bellingen Water Supply System.

“Council wants to understand the community’s values around water security and resilience in general, particularly in terms of best practice for community education on water.”

The survey is open to all residents in the Bellingen Shire aged 18 and over. It will close on Sunday 9 October 2022

Complete the Survey

For community enquiries about the project please contact Council’s Community Resilience Officer Jocelyn Box. E: jbox@bellingen.nsw.gov.au  M: 0420 721 446 P: 6655 7300