City of Mount Gambier is progressing the development of a new Environmental Sustainability Policy, endorsing a project plan to guide its creation and ensure a clear, strategic approach to environmental sustainability across the organisation.
At its meeting on Tuesday 16 June 2026, Council endorsed a structured plan to develop the policy, with a draft to be presented at the September 2026 Council meeting following internal and external consultation.
City of Mount Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin said the policy will play an important role in shaping Council's long term approach to environmental sustainability.
"This policy will provide a clear and coordinated framework to guide how Council approaches environmental sustainability, both strategically and operationally," Mayor Martin said.
"It will bring together existing initiatives, align with State priorities and help ensure we are well positioned to respond to environmental challenges while supporting our community and local economy."
While Council has demonstrated a long standing commitment to sustainability, including more than 15 years operating under the Natural Step Framework, it does not currently have a formal policy to guide its direction.
The development of a policy will build on existing plans and strategies, including the Shared Path Masterplan and Waste and Resource Recovery Master Plan, as well as align with the South Australian Circular Economy Strategy.
Councillor Paul Jenner said the development of a formal Environmental Sustainability Policy is an important step forward for Council.
"This is about building on the strong work already underway and making sure we have a clear, consistent framework to guide our decision making into the future," Cr Jenner said.
"We know our community values sustainability and expects Council to take a leadership role, and this policy will help ensure we are planning responsibly across areas like waste, energy, biodiversity and emissions reduction."
The policy is expected to cover a broad range of focus areas including water security, waste and circular economy, energy and resource management, sustainable transport, biodiversity, land use planning and emissions management.
The endorsed project plan outlines a staged approach, including baseline analysis, benchmarking, stakeholder engagement and public consultation, before the preparation of a draft policy.
A draft, informed by consultation, will be presented to Council in September 2026.
The Mayor said community and stakeholder input will be a critical part of the process.
"Engagement with our community and key stakeholders will be central to developing a policy that reflects local priorities and achieves meaningful outcomes."
"The policy will ultimately guide future decision making, help set clear targets and support practical actions that enhance environmental outcomes across our city."
The policy will also inform future budget considerations and long term financial planning for sustainability initiatives.
