These policy principles underpin all of the decisions made by Council. They guide our strategic planning and action, the design of processes, facilities and services, and the management of our assets.
Putting people first
We place people first through the promotion of leadership, imagination, initiative, learning, trust, participation and service. We focus on the needs and aspirations of people and then shape services, processes, products, places, infrastructure, and facilities, to suit. We build personal safety and promote choices for healthy, active living.
Enabling equity
We value equity, recognising that there are inequalities across our region and in our communities (whether due to history, socioeconomic factors, location, age or culture). We work to address these inequalities so that our communities have equitable access to opportunities and services. We protect the options and aspirations of future generations.
Promoting strengths
We recognise and respect our strengths - protecting and celebrating our natural, cultural, and economic strengths and heritage, and building upon these in developing the region. We aim to increase the integration between social, environmental and economic activities.
Seeking to understand
We make informed decisions that rely on input from genuine community and stakeholder engagement and the best available knowledge, applied to the Onkaparinga context.
Being resourceful
We are resourceful and live within our limits and means, focusing on possibilities, solutions, adaptations and initiatives that catalyse and add value. We learn from mistakes and use land, energy, resources, infrastructure and facilities efficiently.
Encouraging investment
We invest in our region – maximising potential for local business, employment and market-based competition. We recognise the strengths of the private, government and non-government sectors working together for community benefit. We pursue sustainable growth, including the ongoing renewal of older areas.
Working strategically towards our vision
We are strategic and apply a systematic approach that sees the bigger picture, understands immediate and longer term implications, anticipates opportunity, manages uncertainty and determines policy to guide activity. Our dealings are transparent and we are accountable for our performance.