New South Wales Premier Chris Minns is set to bring his government's community cabinet to Kiama, offering residents a rare opportunity to engage directly with state ministers. The event, scheduled for March 18, will see the Premier and several cabinet members travel to the Illawarra region to hear firsthand from locals about the issues that matter most to them.
Community Engagement Initiative
The community cabinet meeting is part of the Minns government's commitment to decentralizing decision-making and ensuring that regional voices are heard. Unlike traditional cabinet meetings held in Sydney, these sessions are held in various locations across the state, allowing residents to raise concerns, ask questions, and provide feedback on government policies.
During the Kiama event, community members will have the chance to speak directly with ministers about a range of topics, including healthcare, education, infrastructure, and local economic development. The format typically includes a public forum where attendees can address the cabinet, followed by smaller breakout sessions on specific issues.
Key Details for Attendees
The community cabinet will take place at the Kiama Pavilion, with doors opening at 5:30 PM. Residents are encouraged to register in advance to secure a spot, as attendance is expected to be high. The event will run from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, providing ample time for discussion.
Premier Minns emphasized the importance of these gatherings, stating that they allow the government to stay connected with the communities it serves. "We want to hear directly from the people of Kiama about what matters to them," Minns said. "This is about making government more accessible and responsive."
Previous Community Cabinets
The Kiama meeting follows similar successful events in other regional centers, including Dubbo, Wagga Wagga, and Coffs Harbour. These sessions have covered a wide array of issues, from drought support and bushfire recovery to public transport and mental health services. The government has used feedback from these forums to inform policy decisions and allocate resources more effectively.
Local MP for Kiama, Gareth Ward, welcomed the Premier's visit, noting that it demonstrates the government's recognition of the region's unique challenges and opportunities. "This is a chance for our community to put forward its ideas and concerns directly to the decision-makers," Ward said.
How to Participate
Residents who wish to attend the community cabinet in Kiama can register online through the NSW government's website. Those unable to attend in person can submit questions or comments via email or social media, which will be raised during the session. The event will also be live-streamed for broader access.
The Minns government has committed to holding at least four community cabinet meetings per year, rotating through different regions to ensure all parts of the state are included. This initiative aligns with the government's broader agenda of improving transparency and public participation in governance.
For more information, visit the official NSW government website or contact the Kiama electorate office.
