Shaping the Future of the Upper Hunter Shire
Have your say
Welcome to the consultation page for the Upper Hunter Shire Community Strategic Plan (CSP) 2034. This is the central hub for all information related to our CSP engagement process, where you’ll find everything you need to participate, stay informed, and share your vision for the Shire.
Our CSP is a 10-year roadmap that sets the vision, values, and priorities for the Upper Hunter Shire, ensuring we grow in a way that aligns with the community’s needs and aspirations. Unlike specific project planning or budgeting, the CSP guides the big picture—the major themes and directions we’ll focus on, from environmental sustainability to community well-being and economic resilience.
To see how this plan can guide our future, you can review our current Community Strategic Plan to gain a better understanding of how we identify and address the long-term needs of the Shire.
What Is the CSP and Why Is It Important?
The CSP is designed to answer questions like:
- What kind of community do we want to become?
- What values and priorities are essential to the Upper Hunter Shire?
Our CSP isn’t about detailing individual projects or setting budgets; it’s about setting Council’s vision for the future and providing a framework that informs other planning documents like our Delivery Program and Operational Plan. By participating, you help shape a CSP that reflects what matters most to the community.
How to Get Involved
We’ve designed a variety of ways for residents to get involved in the CSP consultation, including:
Phone Survey:
- The phone survey will commence on 4 November. Initially, calls will come from 02 4355 9760, with the full team later calling from 02 8358 2995. This is your chance to share your thoughts on the future of the Shire directly with Council. The survey will run for approximately 7–10 days.
Complete a Digital Survey:
Take the survey now
Printed surveys are also available by request at Council offices, libraries, and key community locations. As a thank-you, all participants will have the chance to win one of five $100 WeLiveHere gift cards.
Attend Community Events and drop-ins:
Chat with Council about the Community Strategic Plan at:
- Christmas on Kelly, Scone – Thursday, 12 December, 5–7 PM
- Merriwa Home for Christmas – Friday, 13 December, 5–7 PM
- Twilight Christmas Markets, Murrurundi – Saturday, 14 December, 5–7 PM
Pop-up Drop-in Sessions: Come along to a drop-in session, where Council staff and Councillors will be available to chat about the CSP and answer any questions.
- Moonan Flat
Tuesday, 26 November, 4–6pm
Moonan Flat Pub
- Aberdeen
Thursday, 28 November, 4–6pm
Aberdeen Library
Stay Connected:
Follow us on social media and check this page for regular updates, discussions, and results from the consultation process.
Consultation Timeline
- Phone Survey Begins: Commences 4 November 2024
- Digital Survey Opens: 12 November 2024
- Community Engagement Period: 12 November 2024 – 7 February 2025
- Survey Closes: Midnight, Friday 7 February 2025
- Review and Drafting: March 2025
- Public Exhibition of Draft CSP: April 2025
- Final Adoption of CSP: 26 May 2025
What Happens Next?
After gathering feedback from the community, Council will review and incorporate your input to refine the CSP. The draft plan will then go on public exhibition in April 2025, providing a final opportunity for community feedback before adoption in May.
Why Your Voice Matters
Your participation helps ensure that the CSP truly reflects the needs, values, and aspirations of the Upper Hunter Shire community. Whether you’re passionate about environmental sustainability, community services, or economic growth, this is your chance to influence the Shire’s future.
Let’s work together to create a Community Strategic Plan that everyone in the Upper Hunter Shire can be proud of. Have your say, and help shape our future!