New Council advisory committees seek local voices to guide strategic planning

Maitland City Council has opened expressions of interest for community members and representatives of stakeholder organisations to join four newly established strategic advisory committees, bringing local voices, expertise, and lived experience to informed decision-making processes. 

Endorsed by Council as part of a refreshed structure, the new committees reflect Council's commitment to transparency, collaboration, and meaningful engagement. Their focus is on guiding long-term strategic planning and aligning with the delivery of Maitland's Future, the city's new Community Strategic Plan. 

Maitland Mayor Philip Penfold said the committees are an important opportunity for the community to contribute their expertise in a structured way and ensure strategies and projects are grounded in local insight and experience.

"These committees strengthen the way we partner with our community and stakeholders," said Mayor Penfold.

"They provide a direct link between Council and the people, organisations and groups who contribute to the life of our city, and they support us to deliver more transparent, informed and inclusive decision-making."

Expressions of interest are open for the following strategic advisory committees:

• City Planning, Heritage and Design Strategic Advisory Committee - Advises on strategies related to city planning, heritage, urban design and economic development.
• Culture and Community Strategic Advisory Committee - Advises on strategies supporting social connection, wellbeing, and arts and cultural expression.
• Environment and Sustainability Strategic Advisory Committee - Advises on strategies to protect the environment and promote sustainable development.
• Sport, Recreation and Leisure Strategic Advisory Committee - Advises on strategies to enhance active lifestyles, inclusion and access to recreation.

Each committee includes up to three community representatives and two stakeholder organisation representatives, ensuring a broad and balanced mix of perspectives.

"We're looking for representatives who bring lived experience, local knowledge or professional expertise and want to take an active role, working alongside Council to help deliver meaningful outcomes for Maitland," said Mayor Penfold.

Expressions of interest close at 11.59pm on Sunday 29 June 2025.

More information, including nomination forms and committee Terms of Reference, is available at mait.city/Committees-EOI