RESIDENTS are being urged to speak up on the social issues that matter most to our community, with feedback being collected to help shape council’s new social plan.
The feedback will also help council provide recommendations to state and federal governments.
The Grahams of Pomona are one such family who have already put their feedback forward.
For the young local family, asking state and federal governments to provide more funding or incentives for local businesses to take on apprentices, maintaining social support networks and affordable sporting opportunities are seen as high priorities.
“Our children have grown up here, but their opportunities for work without travelling a long way are limited,” Madeline Graham said.
Her eldest son has recently sought an apprenticeship.
“We provided him with a car and he visited more than 60 businesses from Noosa to Gympie looking for an opportunity, before finding a position in Gympie. Many of his friends have a similar story.“These are good kids and some of them are only now just starting to find opportunities.”
Spokesman for council’s Social Plan Reference Group, Cr Frank Pardon, urged residents to join the Grahams and have a say on the local social issues they were most concerned about.
“Should we be highlighting to state and federal governments that more youth training facilities and services are required to help our young people into work?” Cr Pardon said.
“Should council advocate for more services for older people who are isolated at home, or should council ask for a push towards smaller, more affordable housing?
“We’re asking mums and dads, the elderly, young people – everyone – to provide input.
“That information will help us develop a social plan that clearly states our case on social needs that council can then use to make recommendations to higher levels of government.”
Mrs Graham felt that support networks were particularly important for hinterland communities, as were sporting opportunities for young people.
“My kids are fortunate that we’ve been able to encourage their sporting interests, but families can’t always afford the costs and so some kids miss out on those health, fitness and social benefits,” she said.
From now until 30 April, council is inviting input via its Your Say Noosa forum at yoursay.noosa.qld.gov.au
Submissions can also be made by email to mail@noosa.qld.gov.au or by post to PO Box 141 Tewantin QLD 4565.
Submissions will be made public on Your Say Noosa with names and contact details withheld. Please indicate if you wish for your submission to remain confidential.
