The first Community Cabinet meeting of the Minns Government has been heralded as a success thanks to the enthusiastic and engaged community of Penrith in Sydney's west.
The landmark event, which took place at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, provided a valuable forum for direct engagement between the NSW Government and the local community of Penrith, facilitating meaningful discussions on various topics vital to the region.
More than 150 community members, business owners and stakeholders attended the community reception, with a further 115 also taking part in a morning tea session.
Key topics that were raised ranged from small business and infrastructure development to health, housing, education, and climate change.
The insights from the community shared during the event will help the NSW Government to shape policies and initiatives in Western Sydney and across NSW.
Additional Community Cabinet meetings will be announced soon, to be held regularly throughout the next four years.
Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said:
"I am grateful to the Penrith community for their participation in my Government's very first Community Cabinet meeting.
"In the lead-up to the election, we outlined a vision of a government that listens and puts people at the heart of its work.
"Community Cabinet provides a unique opportunity for Government and the people of NSW to come together to openly discuss priorities, concerns, needs and aspirations.
"I look forward to hosting regular Community Cabinet meetings across NSW over the next four years."
Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car said:
"I am thrilled at the huge turnout and the positive community engagement during today's event in Penrith, in the heart of Western Sydney.
"It has been inspiring to hear the diverse ideas and thoughts of local people on all of the issues that matter most to them.
"The insights shared today will help us to keep serving those in the Penrith community and beyond.
"Thank you to everyone who attended for representing and advocating for your communities."
