A new program developed by Rockhampton City Council in Queensland aims to reduce the chance of neighbourhood disputes occurring. The Rockhampton Neighbourhood Program, due to begin in the next couple of months, has been designed to encourage neighbours to get to know one another, thus decreasing the likelihood of neighbourhood disputes.
It will involve community based activities at local neighbourhood parks and other community spaces, targeting residents in the immediate area.
“Ideally, by encouraging people to get to know their neighbours, Council hopes to improve individuals’ and the whole community’s tolerance levels to a point where potential neighbourhood disputes can be resolved before escalating into reportable offences,” said Council’s Environmental Services Committee Chair, Councillor Neil Fisher.
A trial of the program was held last year in the Lakes Creek community, which proved to be successful.
“We have already received a huge response to the suggestion of neighbourhood get together with members of the public contacting Council wanting information about how to get the program in their local community,” said Councillor Fisher.“Every year Council receives a variety of neighbourhood complaints, many of which could be avoided if the community was more aware about local laws and the role of Local Government. At the end of the day, we are trying to take a more proactive approach by improving the lines of communication among neighbours, in an attempt to better equip them to deal with potential disputes.”
The program activities will be hosted by Council and are likely to include resources outlining the roles and responsibilities of Council, to encourage people to learn more about Local Government.
For further information, contact Council’s Community Liaison Officer, Lorraine Copping on (07) 4936 8000.
