Submissions for this project are currently closed while we transition to a new website. The survey will be open for feedback again on Wednesday 1 October.

Make a Bigger Circle
The name, Make a Bigger Circle, emerged during the engagement forums on culture and inclusion, when a participant shared a simple yet powerful statement "When there's not enough room around the fire, we make a bigger circle". This saying turned heads. It captured the spirit of inclusion, generosity, and adaptability that defines our region's aspirations for inclusion. It was all about bring people in, a practice of welcoming people to the table or fire.

Council is reviewing and updating our Community Inclusion Plan (CIP) to help build on the foundations laid by the 2022-25 CIP, and embedded Disability Inclusion Action Plan. We have worked to ensure the plan is:

• Authentic and grounded in lived experience, drawing on voices of those most impacted by exclusion and inequity.
• Aligned with broader Council strategies, frameworks and legislative obligation under the Local Government Act 1993 and Disability Inclusion Act 2014.
• Informed by data and evidence.

The CIP will guide Council’s actions over the next four years to strengthen inclusion across our community — by reducing barriers, creating opportunities, and celebrating diversity.

We welcome feedback from everyone, and especially encourage contributions from people living with disability, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, LGBTQIA+ people, older people, young people, carers, and veterans, as well as others who may experience barriers to participation

Have Your Say

You can review the draft plan which will be on public exhibition until 26 October 2025, to the right (or below if viewing this page on a mobile device).

We have also provided an easy read document for your convenience.

You can provide feedback by:

• Completing the survey below
• Emailing council@pmhc.nsw.gov.au
• Posting to: CEO Port Macquarie Hastings Council, PO Box 84, Port Macquarie NSW 2444

All submissions must be received by 5pm on 26 October 2025