Bass Coast Shire Council engages in various funding arrangements that could be defined as partnerships to support the objectives of our Council Plan as well as building the capacity and strength of the community. These may be related to the environment, sports, recreation, arts or other activities that enhance the wellbeing of our community.

Partnerships may also be industry based, where Councils and organisations form an arrangement to deliver a service to community. Industry based partnerships may be an alliance of Councils, Tourism Associations or other like bodies that form a relationship to further a cause of mutual benefit.

A stronger sense of community and a celebration of place can be fostered by partnerships. Often supporting the health of local communities and businesses, partnerships build leadership and resilience, and encourage increased participation in civic life.

In February 2023, BCSC adopted the draft Partnerships Policy and Framework in-principal, for the purpose of community consultation. The approach envisaged in the future is that all partnerships are clearly defined and documented, that the reciprocal obligations are documented, there is an assessment of the public value and public interest of the arrangement, and there is an appropriate review cycle.

The benefits of reviewing Council’s Partnerships include:

• Good governance
• Consistency of approach
• Transparency of decision making
• Effective distribution of Council funds
• Good customer service to our partners
• Effective use of Council resources
• Clarity of expectations from partners
• Council brand
• Efficiency of process and timing

Council has a public interest obligation to ensure that investment in partnerships is well managed, and that maximum public value is derived from these relationships. The adoption of clear policy and a framework to guide the redesign of administration and processes related to the establishment and ongoing management of partnerships is an important first step.

To further understand the draft Partnership Policy and Framework we invited you to:

• Ask a question or fill out a submission
• Post your feedback to Bass Coast Shire Council, PO Box 118, Wonthaggi VIC 3995
• Drop in to one of our Customer Service Centres
• Register for one of our Information Sessions via the registration links on this page
• Email: partnerships@basscoast.vic.gov.au

The consultation is now closed. Thank you for your contributions and feedback to help shape the Policy and Framework!