Everyone is a citizen, and everyone has power.

• Do you want to understand more about how political power works in Australia?
• Do you want to know more about your power as a community member to create positive change, and how to build your understanding and skills to do this?

The City of Parramatta invites Expressions of Interest from community members to participate in this 3 week (3 consecutive Saturdays) FREE training program, "Community Citizens" - June 16, 23 & 30, 2018.

Community Citizens has been developed by the Community Capacity Building Team for local communities - especially those who struggle to have their voices heard, are unsure how to increase their influence in decision making, and want to realise their power to create positive change in their communities.

WHO

We are seeking people who want to collaborate with others to create positive change in their community - from local up to national - and may already be working on projects, but just want to know more or consolidate what they have learned through experience.

CONTENT

The Community Citizens training program will cover:

• Power, and the power that all citizens have (regardless of formal Citizenship status).
• The three levels of governement in Australia and how they work.
• Law and legal systems in Australia.
• Persuasion and Negotiation Skills.
• Media and Media Campaigns.

In addition to presentations by the facilitators, the program uses acitvities and group discussion as the methods of learning. A number of past and current world real-life stories of change will be used to help you explore, discuss, do and learn the core concepts and from the experiences of others. Prepare to be challenged!

A good grasp of English, including written, is required.

You will be provided with all learning materials, and be able to take your pack home with you at the end of the program.

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

Please use the registration process through this page to register your interest in being a participant by May 10. Spaces are limited and Council will consider your responses to the registration questions as part of the decision making process. You will be required to state why you want to participate, and if you are a part of any community organisations/networks. Council will be reviewing Expressions of Interest as they are received, and will respond within a couple of working days to let you know if have been accepted or not into the program.

TIME & VENUE

The whole program will be delivered over 3 Saturdays in June - and a commitment to all 3 is required:

• Saturday June 16
• Saturday June 23
• Saturday June 30

Venue: Meeting Room A, Level 2, 1-3 Fitzwilliam Street, Parramatta (Same building at the City Library).

Time: 9:30am Start (Sharp) - 3:00pm. {Participants are asked to arrive between 9:15-9:30 to ensure they are present for a prompt start}

Morning Tea and Lunch will be provided - please indicate any dietary requirements in your Expression of Interest.

ACCESSIBILITY/TRANSPORT

The venue is an accessible venue - Lifts to level 2 are available, as well as accessible toilets on each floor. The venue is close to the Parramatta Transport Interchange, and it is recommended to catch public transport. Paid parking is available in the area: Click here to be directed to Google maps