You are able to make a written submission instead of a deputation on a topic that is on the agenda for that month's Council meeting. Find out more about written submissions and how to submit one below.
About Written Submissions
Written submissions allow you to participate in local government by giving you to ability to express your thoughts to the Council on a matter they are making a decision on. It also assists us in identifying issues of importance to the community and assists the public to be better informed about how the City is governed.
A written submission is a document up to four pages in length, including attachments. It is circulated to Elected Members for their consideration prior to the relevant Agenda Briefing Forum/Ordinary Council Meeting.
Written submissions, like verbal deputations, are generally considered at the relevant Agenda Briefing Forum, unless it is related to an item that was not included in the agenda for the Agenda Briefing Forum (e.g., it was a 'late item'), in which case it may be considered at the relevant Ordinary Council Meeting.
Written submissions will be included as an attachment to the minutes of the meeting, as it is considered a public record. Any information you provide, including your name and suburb, will also be published.
How to Request a Written Submission
To require a written submission, either:
Please submit your request by 12noon three days before the relevant Agenda Briefing Forum/Ordinary Council Meeting. To ensure you submit your submission on time, view
upcoming meeting dates.
Guidance on Writing a Written Submissions
The Council prefer written submissions to be considered at Agenda Briefing Forums, which are held a week prior to Ordinary Council Meeting. Written submissions submitted after the Agenda Briefing Forum will only be permitted in special circumstances.
Written submissions should not exceed two pages in length, be easily read within 10 minutes, and use font size 11-point or larger. You may attach up to two pages of attachments to supplement your submission, taking the total page length (with attachments) to no more than four pages.
You are responsible for the contents of your submission and the contents will be attributed to you in the minutes of the meeting. Your submission must not include any statements that are offensive, defamatory, false or misleading, or may be considered criticism of Elected Members of City staff.
At the relevant meeting, the Mayor will state that your written submission has been received and circulated to Elected Members. It will not be read out and Elected Members will not ask you any questions about your written submission.
Written Submissions Online Request Form