Coast and Estuary Management Working Group

Established by committee: Environment and Sustainability Committee – 2 September 2025
Functional alignment: Works and Civil

Purpose

In general terms, this group oversees the development and implementation of Clarence Valley Council's Coastal Management Programs (CMPs).

CMPs provide a long-term (10 year) strategy for the coordinated management of the coastal zone. They include strategies and actions to address the key threats and opportunities and support the diversity of natural values and human uses within the coastal zone. Council is required to prepare CMPs in accordance with the Coastal Management Act 2016 and State Environmental Planning Policy (Resilience and Hazards) 2021. 

The working group will assist and provide strategic advice to Council on the development and implementation of CMPs within the Clarence Valley LGA, in accordance with the New South Wales Coastal Management Manual and other relevant policies and guidelines. The group will also provide a forum for information sharing and networking across community, industry and government on coast and estuary management matters in the Clarence Valley LGA.

Alignment to Community Strategic Plan (CSP)

"The Clarence 2035" 

Theme: Environment – A natural environment that is protected from local and global pressures.

Relevant objectives:

• Natural environments, ecosystems and native flora and fauna are enhanced and protected.
• Coastline, waterways and natural environments are healthy and contribute to our wellbeing.
• Green space is maintained and used responsibly.
• Protection of the environment is encouraged through initiatives and education.
  
  

Membership

The membership of the Working Group should be a balanced representation of stakeholders including agencies, groups and/or individuals affecting, affected by or coordinating coast or estuary management.

The following voting membership shall be initially sought:

(i) One (1) Clarence Valley Councillor (as nominated by Council) who will be the Chairperson of the Working Group.

(ii) Up to six (6) community representatives of the Clarence Valley. Up to three (3) representatives will sought from both the coast and estuary.

(iii) Stakeholder organisation representatives from the Clarence Valley which may include representatives from community groups/projects, relevant industry bodies and environmental groups. Number to be determined by Chair and Facilitator depending on interest received. A balanced composition of interests represented shall be sought.

(iv) Up to three (3) First Nations representatives. Representatives shall be sought from across the three nations – Yaegl, Bundjalung, Gumbaynggirr.

Members will be appointed based on their representation and experience, interest, expertise and awareness of the principles and issues of coast and estuary management. Voting members must submit an expression of interest to be appointed to the Working Group.

Meeting Schedule

The Working Group will meet at least twice per year.

Governance 

• Terms of Reference(PDF, 113KB)
• Code of Conduct
  
  

Want to join the working group?

If you're interested in joining the Coast and Estuary Management Working Group and have any questions, please contact:

Uriah Makings – Senior Coast and Estuary Officer
02 6645 0282
uriah.makings@clarence.nsw.gov.au