Residents urged to have their say in Liveability Census

The region’s residents are being invited to have their say on how to help council achieve that by taking part in the 2023 Australian Liveability Census.

The national research project, which council has signed up to for the first time, will reveal what matters most to local communities and inform government planning for better outcomes.

More than 60 councils, state agencies, non-profits, corporations, and research organisations are uniting for the ground-breaking study on liveability in Australia.

Set to launch on National Neighbour Day, this Sunday (March 26), the research aims to uncover the key factors that impact quality for life for Australians.

The results will help governments, like council, prioritise planning that leads to better outcomes for local communities.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the census invited everyone living in Australia to participate and contribute to the largest community engagement project in the country.

He said by completing the survey, residents would ensure their voice was heard in shaping the future of neighbourhoods, and there were also 50 vouchers, worth $100 each, to be won.

“The link to the survey and more information on the research is available on our community engagement portal Connecting Mackay.

“We’re encouraging as many residents as possible in our region to have their say on what liveability means to them to help shape our future planning.

“The nationwide census is timely given three outward looking pillars of our Corporate Plan are Invest and Work, Live and Visit and Community and Environment.”

Kylie Legge, CEO and founder of Sydney-based startup Place Score, said this was a truly unique opportunity for everyone to have a say in the things that impact their everyday lives, whether that be access to jobs, education, open spaces or social connections.

“The 2023 findings, when compared to the results of the 2021 Australian Liveability Census, will also reveal if our values are changing or how external impacts like weather events, covid or higher costs of living are impacting us.”

The Australian Liveability Census is the only national research project that asks community members to say what is important to them and what it is like for them to live in their neighbourhood.

Anyone wanting to complete the survey can do so at connectingmackay.com.au/2023-australian-liveability-census

About Place Score
Place Score is an independent social research company with a mission to make all places better for the people they serve. Its innovative methodology provides transparent and rigorous place-based data that informs decision making and tracks the impact of investment in our neighbourhoods, main streets, and parks. The Australian Liveability Census is run every two years. The first was held in 2021 and this year’s results will help reveal the impact of Covid, extreme weather events and the economy on the lives of local communities.