Mansfield Shire community satisfaction rises to decade high

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The recent Community satisfaction survey has revealed Council is moving in the right direction with Council’s overall performance, as rated by the community, rising to the highest it has been in a decade.

A total of 400 Mansfield Shire residents were surveyed by independent firm JWS Research between February and March. The survey format remained consistent with previous years, allowing for a meaningful comparison with Council’s past performance.

Headlining the findings is the rise in Council’s overall performance score to 68, a six-point increase from 2025. 

Residents aged 18 to 34 scored Council’s overall performance highest with an average score of 75 (an increase of 23 points from 2025) while residents aged 50-64 scored Council lowest with an average of 64 (an increase of 4 points from 2025).

Value for money (59), Overall Council Direction (61) and Customer Service all showed improvements from 2025. 

Mayor Cr Steve Rabie is pleased the community is continuing to see improvements in Council’s performance.

“We are so pleased that the community can see how hard we are working to listen and act on their needs and expectations,” said Cr Rabie. 

“This is a real validation that our community, whom we represent, are really seeing the improvements we are making.” 

“Local government is the only level of government with a front door, which is why we are so connected with knowing what our community is asking of us. Continue to come and speak to us, engage with us, let us know what you want for your community and how we can represent you.”

“Reaching a ten-year high is a milestone worth celebrating. However, we will continue to be committed to keep raising the bar. The best little Shire deserves the best local government and we will continue to strive to improve how we deliver services to the community.” 

Other notable findings from 2026’s Community Satisfaction results are:

  • Libraries – 83 (+7)
  • Appearance of public areas – 82 (no change)
  • Developing and promoting local tourism – 75 (+6)
  • Emergency & disaster management – 75 (+7)
  • Waste management – 74 (+5)
  • Recreational facilities – 72 (+3)
  • Advocating and representing – 69 (+8)
  • Informing the community – 68 (+7)

“The numbers are exciting because what they reflect is significant - the everyday experiences of Mansfield Shire residents as they use their library, walk through the park or as they recover from the 2026 Victorian Bushfire Season,” Mayor Cr Rabie said.

“The rating reflects conversations shared, questioned asked and projects participated in - a community that is paying attention.” 

See the full results of the 2026 community satisfaction survey:

Tagged as: Community