On 12 May 2016, the NSW government amalgamated Gosford and Wyong Councils to become Central Coast Council. The community was never asked if they wanted to merge and almost 7 years later Central Coast Council is just one of the merged Councils that faces significant financial issues - rates have gone up, staff have been axed, community assets continue to be sold and services have been cut or diminished.

At the time of merger, Gosford and Wyong Councils had a combined debt of over $300 million and only $5 million in unrestricted funds – and yet the NSW government forced the merger of these Councils without the community’s backing.

The NSW Government appointed Administrator, Dick Persson, acknowledged that the community didn’t want the merger then and doesn’t want the merger now – but claims that the matter is resolved.

It is not.

The Friends of Democracy will focus on returning democracy to our community and reclaiming our Council.

QR code CC councilsurveyIn 2023, we will be surveying our community about the future of the Central Coast Council. 

  • Should Central Coast Council have an election in 2023?
  • Should Council split into Gosford and Wyong Councils (with shared services)?

 Click here to complete the survey or scan the QR Code.

If you support a de-merger (with shared services) - then

  1. Download a petition here
  2. Complete with your details as they appear on the electoral roll
  3. Post to PO Box 106 Terrigal 2260 OR scan and email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 


The Friends of Democracy is not politically aligned.

We welcome, and hope that, supporters from all political parties - and no political party - will join this cause.