Community members are invited to provide feedback on Central Coast Council’s Draft Graffiti Management Strategy 2021–2024, which sets out the approach Council will take in managing graffiti, in partnership with others, across the whole Central Coast.

Developed by Council in partnership with local stakeholders, the draft strategy outlines five key priorities for graffiti management on the Coast: ‘Boosting our rapid removal response’, ‘Valuing our partners in graffiti management’, ‘Making it easier to report graffiti’, ‘Providing legitimate art opportunities for young people’ and ‘Prevention (education and crime prevention through environmental design)’.

Council’s Director of Connected Communities, Julie Vaughan said that the strategy will replace the former Gosford City and Wyong Shire Graffiti Management Plans to become the first whole of Central Coast Graffiti Management Strategy.

“The draft strategy is based on evidence about what works, reflects best practices in graffiti management and is the result of input from a range of local stakeholders," Ms Vaughan said.

“Not only does it aim to create a sustainable, significant and measurable reduction in graffiti on the Central Coast, it also looks at ways to increase community awareness and understanding of the issue and provide residents with legitimate avenues to express themselves creatively.

“Interested community members can head online to view the draft strategy and provide their feedback to help finalise this important guideline for our region.”

Mayor Lisa Matthews said that Council is committed to working collaboratively with community partners and developing programs that will make a difference in stamping out graffiti.

“Graffiti affects neighbourhood appearance, businesses and community confidence in the safety and security of public places," Mayor Matthews said.

“This strategy seeks to reduce the negative impacts of graffiti felt by the community and visitors and increase pride in local areas, so that we can make the Central Coast a better place to live, work and play.”

Interested community members are invited to view the Draft Graffiti Management Strategy 2021–2024 and provide feedback at yourvoiceourcoast.com by 13 September.