Clubs are encouraged to build a positive relationship with their local council’s sport or recreation staff to discuss facility development plans and advocate for support. A great resource is the Know Your Council website.
Your local council:
- can provide ongoing advice and support
- may have funds available to help in developing facilities and projects
- may have a sport and recreation council or committee that encourages input in council sport and recreation policies and issues from sporting community groups
- may have a club development program to assist clubs with their management and administration
Things you can do to establish a good relationship with your local council are:
- get to know your council’s elected members, senior officers, and recreation and maintenance staff
- invite council representatives to club functions to present trophies, enjoy your hospitality and, most importantly, show them appreciation for the services they provide
- understand the problems your council is having and help them with issues that affect your club
- acknowledge your council whenever you can, particularly in any public arena
- don’t complain, but rather approach problems constructively and seek ‘win-win’ solutions
- encourage other community groups to take an interest in your sport by inviting them to participate in club activities
- establish a positive public relations programme by appointing a member to liaise with the council