Request to make a deputation

A ‘deputation’ is when a person, or a representative of a group of people, appears personally to address Council at an Ordinary meeting on a specific matter listed on the agenda for that meeting: Agendas & Minutes

When applying to make a deputation, you will be asked to advise which agenda item you are speaking to and whether you are speaking 'FOR' or 'AGAINST' the recommendation contained in the report. The rules regarding deputations at Council meetings are outline at part 4 of the Code of Meeting Practice.

Important information

  • Deputations are only allowed in relation to the topics (items) listed on the agenda for that meeting.
  • The request form must be submitted no later than 9:30 AM on the day of the meeting.
  • All written or electronic presentations to be displayed at the meeting must be emailed to the Governance Team no later than 12.00pm on the day of the meeting. 

Steps to request

Before you start

Step 1.Plan ahead

  • Deputation request forms must be submitted by 9:30AM on the day of the meeting. Approved speakers will have five (5) minutes to present. Support persons may assist speakers with disability or additional needs (within the 5-minute time limit).
  • Legal representatives acting on behalf of others are not to be permitted to submit a request to make a deputation at a Council meeting unless they identify their status as a legal representative when applying to speak.

Step 2.View upcoming meeting dates

Upcoming meetings are listed on our upcoming meetings page. Agendas for upcoming meetings are listed on the agendas and minutes page.

Step 3.Find the number and name of the agenda item

  • You will need the item number and name for the agenda item you wish to speak on for that meeting and to indicate whether you wish to speak for or against the recommendation in the relevant report.
  • You can find the item number and name for the subject you want to speak on in the agenda for that meeting. The item number will look like a series of letters and numbers, e.g. 'CL26.2xx'.
  • The item name will be the descriptive title of the agenda item.

How to request

Complete the online form

Click here to view form.

What happens next

Step 1.Your request will be considered by the Chairperson of the meeting or the Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

An application may be refused if it's determined that it doesn't comply with Council’s Code of Meeting Practice.

Step 2.We will contact you with the outcome of your request

A Council representative will contact you by phone or email advising if your application has been successful.

Need help?

Need help? Contact us today

Call the Governance Team on 1300 293 111 or email us at governance@shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au or visit your closest administration centre.

Nowra Administration Centre
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5:00pm
36 Bridge Road, Nowra NSW 2541

Ulladulla Branch Office
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 5:00pm
14 Deering Street, Ulladulla NSW 2539

Frequently asked questions

Who can make a deputation?

Making a deputation is voluntary, and anyone can apply to make a deputation to a meeting.

Legal representatives acting on behalf of others are not to be permitted to make a deputation unless they identify their status as a legal representative when applying to speak.

An application may be refused if it's determined that it doesn't comply with Council’s Code of Meeting Practice.

How long can i speak?

Each speaker is allocated five (5) minutes to speak. Extensions are at the discretion of the Chairperson. 

Can I show slides or video?

Yes, but materials must be lodged with Governance by 12:00 pm on the day and may be refused.

 

Will I be asked questions?

Councillors may ask questions through the Chair after your address. 

You cannot ask questions of Council or staff. 

 

Is there anything I can't say at the meeting?

  • your comments must be relevant to the issue at hand (i.e. they must stay on-topic)
  • you must refrain from making personal comments or criticisms or revealing any private, sensitive or privileged information
  • you may not make insulting or defamatory statements
  • you may not make personal allegations against Councilors and/or staff or be disrespectful. If/when such statements are made the deputation will cease and the individual will be asked to leave the meeting
  • speakers do not have absolute privilege
  • a speaker who makes any offensive or defamatory remarks about another person may be personally liable for their actions
  • you may not publicly allege breaches of the Council’s Code of Conduct

     

Are Council meetings livestreamed?

Yes. Avoid defamatory statements. Recordings remain available for at least 12 months.