Grassroots: Growing Local Democracy

Disenchantment with governments at all levels and disengagement from the political process is widespread and growing in Australia, along with many western democracies. While local government is the level closest to the people there is widespread ignorance and misunderstanding about its role and the means for citizens to participate in local decision-making. It is however, at the local level, where significant opportunities for democratic enhancement exist.

The forum will present an expert panel who will speak on their specialties of local government and

planning law, community participation and engagement. The panel includes Iain Walker, Director of

the New Democracy Foundation, Max Hardy of Twyfords Community Engagement Consultants, and

John Mant, an urban planner and lawyer. Robbie Collins, head of Shoalhaven Campus of University of Wollongong, will be MC for the Forum.

Following the speakers, participants will discuss the information and ideas they have heard in small groups using a proven method known as World Café. This provides opportunities for participants to engage in productive and meaningful discussion. Focus questions will assist participants consider opportunities at the local level. Feedback and summaries of discussions and decisions will be invited.

Participants will be provided with an inspiring and engaging evening, in ambient surroundings – a string quartet on arrival along with something to eat and drink – making it a memorable experience. A “kitchen table discussion starter” will be provided to assist participants continue the discussion with friends, family and work colleagues. A video record of the Forum will be produced and social media will be utilised.

Promotion of the forum will be through local business, tourism, education, community services, Indigenous, youth, community and media networks. A target of 200 participants has been set for the forum which will be held at the Nowra School of Arts on Wednesday 28^th September.

The focus of the forum is democracy, at the local level, not politics.