Six-month livestreaming trial to begin at May Ordinary Council Meeting

Council meetings will be livestreamed as part of a six-month trial, starting at the 22 May meeting.

Since the trial was endorsed in February, a number of tests have taken place ahead of Monday night’s launch of the trial.

Mayor of the City of Wagga Wagga Councillor Greg Conkey OAM said livestreaming gives the community greater access to decision-making and debate at the meetings.

"The introduction of this trial is part of the City of Wagga Wagga’s commitment to openness and transparency,” Cr Conkey said.

“Livestreaming allows you to view the Council meeting on your phone, tablet or PC. If you can’t get to the meeting but are interested in the decision-making process in general or a particular item on the agenda, you can view it anywhere or watch it on demand after the meeting.

“Live updates from Council meetings will also still be available on the City of Wagga Wagga’s Facebook and Twitter pages.”

The livestreaming trial also follows on from the introduction of a Public Access Session and Public Forum – Development Assessment and Policy, which are held a week before each monthly Council meeting.

The access session allows the community members to address Councillors on any matter within the City of Wagga Wagga’s responsibility.

The forum is an additional form of communication and consultation about development applications scheduled for the next Council Meeting, or a policy or plan currently on public exhibition.

“There are now more ways than ever to be involved and stay informed about what’s happening in your community,” Cr Conkey said.

“Along with the new public access session and forum, the City’s community engagement truck Charlie is travelling through about 50 villages and suburbs right across the Local Government Area this year.

“Residents can also take part in online consultations via our Your Say page and help shape the way our community looks in the future.”

The livestream of Monday night’s May Council Meeting will start from 6pm at wagga.nsw.gov.au/watchlive.

Community members are advised that by attending a Council meeting they consent to the possibility that their image and/or voice may also be broadcast to the public.

Further details about the date and time of the Public Access Session and Public Forum – Development Assessment and Policy and how to address Councillors at either session are available at the City’s website.