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Our community has told us they want a future where people feel supported, informed, involved and proud of where they live.

The draft Community Capacity and Connection Strategy 2026-31 responds directly to Council's Community Vision 2034, strengthening the foundations that help communities participate in, shape and enjoy local life.

It provides the long‑term framework that will guide our work to strengthen networks, improve social equity and foster cultural expression.

The overarching strategy will be supported by 4 implementation plans that enable its delivery. These are:

  • Informed Community
  • Active Community
  • Creative Community
  • Empowered Community.

The Empowered Community Implementation Plan 2026-31 is currently open for feedback alongside the strategy.

The other implementation plans will likely be developed in 2027.

Together, these elements set a clear direction for how we will continue to build community capacity and connection across the region, supporting an informed, active, creative and empowered community.

What is community capacity?

Community capacity building is about supporting people to be involved in local matters and empowering communities to work together to make life better. It includes:

  • strengthening community connection
  • developing skills and confidence
  • creating opportunities for people to participate in and influence community and civic life
  • supporting local initiatives that bring people together.

We work alongside individuals, groups, organisations and partners to address challenges, build skills, and create opportunities that enhance wellbeing and improve quality of life.

This includes providing services and programs across our facilities, meeting people where they are, supporting community-led initiatives, and enabling meaningful involvement in local decision-making.

Why your input matters

Your feedback helps ensure the strategy reflects real community needs, priorities and aspirations.

You bring lived experience, local knowledge and insight into what helps people feel connected, supported, involved and empowered.

Your input helps us:

  • understand what’s working well in your community
  • identify gaps, challenges and opportunities
  • shape services, programs and partnerships that matter to you
  • ensure council’s approach aligns with community values and aspirations.

What you can influence

Community feedback can influence the focus areas, strategic objectives and actions of the strategy and implementation plan.

Input will help inform the final strategy and implementation plan to be presented to Council for endorsement.

What you can’t influence

Some elements of the strategy and implementation plan are not open to change as a result of this engagement. Community feedback cannot influence the broad direction, resourcing or budget associated with the strategy and implementation plan.

    Have your say

    We invite you to read the draft Community Capacity and Connection Strategy 2026-31 and draft Empowered Community Implementation Plan 2026-31 documents and share your feedback by completing the survey below.

    Documents:

    We will use the feedback received through this engagement when finalising the strategy and implementation plan before taking them to Council for approval.

    Your insights will help shape how we support community capacity, connection, participation, and wellbeing over the next 6 years.

    Engagement is open until 14 June.

    Other ways to share your feedback

    In person drop-in sessions

    Speak to a council officer at one of our drop-in sessions:

    • Monday 25 May, 10.30am-12.30pm, Aberfoyle Community Centre
    • Thursday 28 May, 4:30pm – 6:30pm, Noarlunga Library
    • Wednesday 3 June, 10.00am-12.00pm, Aldinga Community Centre
    • Thursday 4 June, 10.00am-12.00pm, Arts Centre, Port Noarlunga

    Email or post

    Share your feedback via email or post.

    Email: mail@onkaparinga.sa.gov.au

    Post:
    Attention: Strategic Projects Officer, Community Capacity
    City of Onkaparinga
    PO Box 1
    Noarlunga Centre SA 5168

    Phone

    Speak to the Strategic Projects Officer by calling 8384 0666