Western Downs Regional Council is encouraging residents to have their say on what matters most to them in their neighbourhood, as part of a national research project to inform future planning and decision making.
Council is supporting the Australian Liveability Census which will gather the thoughts and opinions of residents to understand how the Western Downs stacks up to the rest of the country in liveability and to seek ideas for improvements to local neighbourhoods.
Council Spokesperson for Community and Cultural Development Councillor Kaye Maguire said it was important for residents to complete the census, which would be used by Council and other agencies and decisions makers to prioritize future planning and investment.
"The Western Downs is a fantastic place to live and work, and we are proud of the region we call home," Cr Maguire said.
"To ensure Council continues to deliver outcomes that are right for our region, residents are encouraged to fill out the short, fifteen-minute census and
"In doing so, Council will better-understand the values and needs of the community, assess how our region compares with the rest of the nation, and inform future planning and decision making."
Sydney-based social research organisation PlaceScore is hosting the national census, which aims to engage with 50,000 Australians - including Western Downs residents.
CEO and founder of Place Score Kylie Legge said the census was a truly unique opportunity for everyone to have a say in the things that impact their everyday lives - whether that be access to jobs, education, open spaces, or social connections.
"The 2023 findings, when compared to the results of the 2021 Australian Liveability Census, will also reveal if our values are changing or how external impacts like weather events, covid or higher costs of living are impacting us," she said.
The liveability census is available on Council's website and is open until 30 April - Australian Liveability Census 2023 Western Downs Regional Council (wdrc.qld.gov.au)
Residents can also visit any of Council's Customer Contact Centres or Western Downs Libraries to arrange and submit a printed copy of the census. All participants will have the chance to win one of 50 x $100 vouchers.
