EOI - Rural Lands Steering Committee

Published on 20 June 2025

The purpose of the Rural Lands Steering Committee is to provide strategic direction and advance the rural lands strategy by reviewing its land use planning approaches and methodologies underpinning zoning, minimum lot sizes and other controls. It will provide input to Dungog Shire Council on the rural lands strategy from rural communities and representatives from industries in the rural sector.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Rural Lands Steering Committee’s role is to:

• Provide local knowledge and expertise on the rural sector in Dungog Shire and the factors affecting it.
• Provide informed and constructive advice regarding land use planning approaches in the rural lands strategy.
• Identify emerging issues of concern to Dungog Shire’s rural sector and how land use planning can support advancing agricultural development in the shire through diversification, resilience and sustainable prosperity.
• Assist in determining Council’s priorities regarding continued development and management of the rural sector in accordance with industry best practice.
• Advocate support for the rural sector in the region.
• Assist the Council’s efforts to consult with and bring awareness to the broader community on rural issues.

Member responsibilities include:

• Attend as many meetings as possible, and vote on decisions to be made in regard to the rural lands strategy.
• Share their relevant experience and knowledge on rural needs, issues and practices.
• Represent the interest and views of the industry/sector they represent, rather than individual interests.
• Review and provide feedback on documentation.
• While comprising diverse interests and representatives, the committee will not be seen as the only means for the Council to engage and consult its community on rural issues.

To find out more, please read a copy of the Term of Reference and background information linked below.

Dungog-Rural-Lands-Steering-Committee-Report.pdf(PDF, 3MB)

If you would like to be considered to join the committee, please complete the form below. We would love to hear from you.