A People’s Panel is a group of people who are selected to represent the diverse people, ideas and opinions of the Stonnington community. Over a number of sessions, they will learn about a topic (or topics) and discuss issues in detail. A panel is a way for ‘everyday people’ to gain a deep understanding and provide considered insights on complex matters.

Insync is an engagement consultancy who will manage panel selection independently of Council. Insync will aim to select a panel that has a diverse representation of people. Please note that not all people who express an interest will be selected.

Anyone who has a strong connection to Stonnington can apply to join the Stonnington People’s Panel. A group of 45 panel members will be independently and randomly selected and be demographically representative of the wider community. Applicants must be 18 years or older to apply.

Our online survey seeking community views on the Community Vision and future priorities is open to all individuals, including those aged under 18 years. We ran a series of pop-up events in September and October which captured the views of random members of the community of all ages and backgrounds.

Council, together with its partners and stakeholders, is responsible for helping realise the Community Vision.

Our progress update on the Community Vision (see Towards Future Stonnington report under Related Documents) describes what Council has achieved to date towards the community’s long-term aspirations, as a key contributor to the Vision.

Our Annual Report describes in more detail what Council has done each year in fulfilment of the Council Plan and Community Vision.

As a panel member you will have the chance to learn more about the City of Stonnington, better understand how Council works, and work with other community members to contribute to Council decision-making and shape Stonnington ’s future.

You do not need any special skills or knowledge to contribute to the panel – your thoughts and ideas, and an open mind are all that’s required. Panel sessions will be hosted by skilled facilitators who will make sure you understand and can contribute throughout the sessions.

If selected, you will be sent a Welcome Pack to read before the first session. The Welcome Pack outlines your role as a panel member and provides information about the City of Stonnington and the role of local government, and the key planning documents you’ll be contributing to. There may be some light reading or videos to review in between sessions. You do not need to study – you will not be tested.

Sessions may be held online or in-person. You will be expected to attend all in-person sessions in-person and online sessions must be attended online.

Throughout the sessions, you will be guided by a skilled facilitator to participate and contribute your ideas. If you’re selected for the panel, we ask that you:

• be open, respectful and thoughtful in your participation

• discuss issues and ideas with other panel members, and consider all the information presented to you

• stay focused and on topic

• listen to information, be curious and ask questions

• learn more about other people’s ideas and views and share your thoughts

• attend a minimum of three panel sessions in-person.

Council can offer help to ensure you are able to participate fully in the panel, such as by providing computer support or internet access, an interpreter, hearing or sight modifications, etc. All venues will be wheelchair accessible.

Please identify any assistance or support you require when submitting an Expression of Interest form. If you are selected, someone will contact you to better understand your needs.

Yes. To show our appreciation for your time, and to make it easier for you to participate, each panel member will receive an honorarium payment of $300 at the end of the panel process. You must attend at least three of four sessions to receive your payment.

If you’re interested in joining Stonnington's People’s Panel 2025, please complete the Expression of Interest (EOI) form.

If you have any questions, need help to complete the form, or would prefer to complete an EOI over the phone, please call Insync by phone on 9909 9209.

Please note that not everyone who expresses interest will be selected for the panel.

Applications close on 3 February 2025. Successful applicants will be notified in early February.

The Council Plan 2025-29 will be exhibited to the public for comment in mid-2025. Please ‘follow’ this page to be alerted to the next opportunity to provide feedback.

If you have questions about the EOI or People’s Panel please contact Insync by email on vvo@insync.com.au or by phone on 9909 9209.

The Community Vision describes the community’s long-term aspirations for our city and guides the work of the Council, as outlined in the Council Plan and key strategic documents. The Community Vision belongs to the community - the Council, and other community partners and stakeholders, all have a role in helping realise the community’s aspirations.

The City of Stonnington is checking in with the community this year to ensure the current Community Vision still reflects the community’s long-term aspirations.

The Council Plan represents what the Council will commit to deliver during its term and describes how it will make progress towards the Community Vision over the next four years.

The Budget and Annual Plan is produced each financial year and describes how the Council will allocate resources the following and subsequent three years to achieve its priorities in the Council Plan.

Council will also develop the 10-year Financial Plan and 10-year Asset Plan for the period 2025-26 to 2034-35. The Financial Plan sets long-term investment and spending thresholds to ensure Council can continue to provide appropriate services and facilities to meet the community’s future needs. The Asset Plan describes how Council will manage and maintain its assets over the long-term.