Draft Code of Meeting Practice - June 2026

The City of Parramatta draft Code of Meeting Practice (June 2026) is based on the Model Code of Meeting Practice for Local Councils in NSW. The Model Code of Meeting Practice for Local Councils in NSW (the Model Code) is prescribed under Section 360 of the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act) and the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 (the Regulations).

Why was the Code of Meeting Practice exhibited again in 2026?

In late 2025 and early 2026, Council consulted the community on a draft Code of Meeting Practice - we appreciate the feedback received during that process. In early 2026, there were changes at a State level affecting the Model Code of Meeting Practice, which all Councils are required to follow. As a result, Council had to revert to its previous, compliant Code, adopted in July 2025, to ensure it continues to meet legislative requirements.

This created an opportunity to revisit this Code, and propose amendments that incorporate:

• Feedback provided by the community and Councillors during the recent consultation, and
• A number of practical, non-mandatory improvements to how meetings are run.

This meant that Council was required to place a draft Code of Meeting Practice on exhibition sooner than usual. The mid-2026 public exhibition ensured that:

• The proposed Code is fully compliant with legislation, and
• The community has the opportunity to review and provide feedback on the updated version before it is adopted.

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