Published on Thursday, 26 June 2025 at 2:56:54 PM
The Shire of Dardanup has once again been recognised as one of WA’s top-performing local governments, following strong community feedback in the 2025 MARKYT Community Scorecard.
Nearly 900 residents took part in the survey, providing valuable feedback that highlights strong satisfaction across a broad range of services.
The Shire ranked 2nd overall among regional councils and 8th overall out of more than 70 councils across Australia that have completed a MARKYT® accredited study in the last three years.
The Shire was celebrated as an industry leader in several key areas:
• Community engagement and communication.
• Economic development and job creation.
• Access and inclusion.
• Youth services (up 8 points from 2023).
• Seniors' services and aged care.
• Ranger services.
• Local town centre development – scoring 17 points above the industry average.
Shire President Cr Tyrrell Gardiner said the results are a reflection of the community's trust and the Shire’s ongoing commitment to improvement.
“Our community has told us loud and clear — we’re on the right track,” Cr Gardiner said.
“It’s encouraging to see strong results in areas like planning, sport and recreation, and parks and playgrounds, which continue to be important to our residents.
“We know there’s always room to grow, and we’ll continue to listen and act on all feedback, just as we’ve done with every scorecard.”
Cr Gardiner said to ensure an independent and robust process, the Shire commissioned CATALYSE® to conduct the survey.
Scorecards were mailed to all households and residential PO Boxes via Australia Post unaddressed mail, and also made available online. The Shire supported the initiative with promotions through its communication channels.
Additional highlights include:
• Financial management – 9 points above the industry average.
• Customer service – consistently rated highly.
• Library services – above industry average and improved from 2023.
• Planning services – 16 points above the industry average.
• Local roads and bridges – above the industry average.
• Festivals, events and markets – highly rated.
The survey also revealed the top areas the community would like the Shire to prioritise, including:
• Advocating for housing affordability and availability.
• Improving community safety.
• Focusing on local roads and waste management.
Cr Gardiner said the Shire also saw improvements in communication and engagement scores and acknowledges that community input continues to shape major initiatives, including the Community Safety and Crime Prevention Plan 2023-2028 and the launch of the successful Digital Connections program for seniors.
Community voices:
Survey participants shared feedback that reinforces the Shire’s strong performance in engagement, recreation, aged care, youth services, planning, infrastructure, and town centre development:
“We are very lucky to live in such a well-managed Shire.”
“Shire staff are always friendly, helpful, and professional.”
“I love the community feel and the events that bring people together.”
“The Eaton Recreation Centre is a huge asset to the area.”
“It’s clear the Shire is investing in growth and planning ahead.”
“Appreciate the improvements in communication and updates through social media and newsletters.”
“The parks and playgrounds are well-maintained and a great place for families.”
“Great to see support for seniors and programs that help keep us connected.”
“Our town centres are looking fresh and inviting – a big improvement!”
“Really value the environmental work happening – especially tree planting and access to bushland.”
The full report was endorsed the May Council meeting and is available on the Shire’s website here:
2025 MARKYT Community Scorecard results
Caption: The Shire of Dardanup’s 2025 MARKYT Community Scorecard has once again
recognised the Shire as one of WA’s top-performing local governments, following
community feedback in the biennial survey earlier this year.
Media contact: Tahnia Creedon, Communications Officer | tahnia.creedon@dardanup.wa.gov.au | 0436 942 509.
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