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AGENDA R |

Council Meeting
TUESDAY 28 OCTOBER 2025
6:30 PM
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Live Streaming of Council Meeting
In the spirit of open, accessible and transparent government, this meeting of the Inner West Council is being streamed live on Council’s website. By speaking at a Council meeting, members of the public agree to being recorded and must ensure their speech to the Council is respectful and use appropriate language. A person who uses defamatory, discriminatory or offensive language may be exposed to liability for which Council takes no responsibility. Any part of this meeting that is held in closed session will not be recorded.
Council meetings are streamed live on Council’s website. This allows our community greater access to Council proceedings, decisions and debate.
Pre-Registration to Speak at Council Meetings
Members of the public must register by 2pm of the day of the Meeting to speak at Council Meetings. If you wish to register to speak please fill in a Register to Speak Form, available from the Inner West Council website, including:
Are there any rules for speaking at a Council Meeting?
The following rules apply when addressing a Council meeting:
What happens after I submit the form?
You will be contacted by Governance Staff to confirm your registration. If you indicated that you will speak online, you will be provided with a link to the online meeting. Your request will then be added to a list that is shown to the Chairperson on the night of the meeting.
Where Items are deferred, Council reserves the right to defer speakers until that Item is heard on the next occasion.
Accessibility
Inner West Council is committed to ensuring people with a disability have equal opportunity to take part in Council and Committee Meetings. At the Council Chambers at Ashfield, there is a hearing loop service available to assist persons with a hearing impairment. If you have any other access or disability related participation needs and wish to know more, call 9392 5536.
Persons in the public gallery are advised that under the Local Government Act 1993, a person may NOT record a Council meeting without the permission of Council.
Any persons found recording without authority will be expelled from the meeting.
“Record” includes the use of any form of audio, video and still camera equipment or mobile phone capable of recording speech.
An audio recording of this meeting will be taken for the purpose of verifying the accuracy of the minutes.
Statement of Ethical Obligations
The Mayor and Councillors are bound by the Oath/ Affirmation of Office made at the start of the Council term to undertake their civic duties in the best interests of the people of the Inner West Council and to faithfully and impartially carry out the functions, powers, authorities and discretions vested in them under the Local Government Act or any other Act, to the best of their skill and judgement.
It is also a requirement that the Mayor and Councillors disclose conflicts of interest in relation to items listed for consideration on the Agenda or which are considered at this meeting in accordance with Council’s Code of Conduct and Code of Meeting Practice.
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
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AGENDA |
Volume 1 of 2
1 Acknowledgement of Country
2 Apologies and Request for Remote Attendance
3 Notice of Webcasting
4 Statement of Ethical Obligations
5 Disclosures of Interest (Part 4 (Pecuniary Interests) and Part 5 (non-pecuniary conflicts of interest) of Council’s Code of Conduct)
6 Moment
of Quiet Contemplation
7 Confirmation
of Minutes Page
8 Public Forum – Hearing from All Registered Speakers
Minutes of 23 September 2025 Council 7
Minutes of 30 September 2025 Extraordinary Council (including record of proceedings of Public Forum held on 22 September 2025) 41
9 Condolence Motions
Nil at the time of printing.
10 Mayoral Minutes
Nil at the time of printing.
11 Reports for Council Decision
ITEM Page
C1025(1) Item 1 Update on Inner West e-Bike Strategy and Policy and shared e-bike parking bays 182
C1025(1) Item 2 Annual Financial Statements for the Financial Year 2024/25 186
C1025(1) Item 3 Public Exhibition - Draft Parking Strategy & Public Domain Parking Policy 263
C1025(1) Item 4 Public Exhibition - Sydenham Road Strategy 332
C1025(1) Item 5 Local Transport Forum Terms of Reference and 2025 Authorisation and Delegation Instrument 388
C1025(1) Item 6 Local Transport Forum Meeting - 15 September 2025 410
C1025(1) Item 7 Post Exhibition - Loyalty Square, Balmain Improvement Works 430
C1025(1) Item 8 Public Exhibition - Jack Shanahan Reserve - Draft Plan of Management 448
C1025(1) Item 9 Callan Park Draft Foundation Plan of Management 452
C1025(1) Item 10 Kids Play/Kids Say - Strategic Engagement Framework for Playground Development and Upgrades 562
C1025(1) Item 11 Membership of Catchment Groups 565
C1025(1) Item 12 FOGO contamination and microplastics including fruit stickers 571
C1025(1) Item 13 Privately-led Planning Proposal - Marrickville Metro Shopping Centre - 20 Smidmore Street Marrickville 576
C1025(1) Item 14 Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee - 13 October 2025 Minutes 583
Volume 2 of 2
12 Reports for Noting
ITEM Page
C1025(1) Item 15 Investment Report at 30 September 2025 588
C1025(1) Item 16 Leichhardt Oval Refurbishment - Monthly Project Update 644
C1025(1) Item 17 Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre Upgrade - Monthly Project Update 647
C1025(1) Item 18 Inner West Pride Walk Update 651
C1025(1) Item 19 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Hub - Funding sources and procurement strategy 655
C1025(1) Item 20 Town Hall Open Day Festival Update 658
C1025(1) Item 21 Improvement of facilities at Dawn Fraser Baths 661
C1025(1) Item 22 Local Democracy Groups Six Monthly Progress Update 665
C1025(1) Item 23 Tourism Action Plan Bi-Monthly Report 688
C1025(1) Item 24 Mandatory Reporting to Council of Reports Received from Fire & Rescue NSW 691
C1025(1) Item 25 Booth Street connection to White Bay Cruise Ship Terminal - Tourist Path and Active Transport Link 711
C1025(1) Item 26 Designated Persons Disclosures of Pecuniary Interest Returns 2024-2025 717
13 Notices of Motion
ITEM Page
C1025(1) Item 27 Notice of Motion: Rescheduling of November and December 2025 Council meetings 923
C1025(1) Item 28 Notice of Motion: Abolishing Subminimum Wages for People with Disability 924
C1025(1) Item 29 Notice of Motion: Environmental Planning and Assessment (Planning System Reforms) Bill 2025 926
C1025(1) Item 30 Notice of Motion: Re-establishment of Pratten Park Advisory Committee 928
C1025(1) Item 31 Notice of Motion: Wombat Crossing or Other Pedestrian Improvements for Wardell Road 929
C1025(1) Item 32 Notice of Motion: Adoption of the Our Backyard River Campaign Objectives 931
C1025(1) Item 33 Notice of Motion: Container Deposit Scheme (Return & Earn) in the Inner West 934
C1025(1) Item 34 Notice of Motion: Marrickville Parklands Picnic Area 936
C1025(1) Item 35 Notice of Motion: NSW Solar for Apartment Residents (SOAR) 938
C1025(1) Item 36 Notice of Motion: Support for Summer Crawl and King Street Crawl 940
C1025(1) Item 37 Notice of Motion: GreenWay Concerns for Residents of 1-3 Williams Parade, Dulwich Hill 942
C1025(1) Item 38 Notice of Motion: Waste management support for tenants 944
C1025(1) Item 39 Notice of Motion: Parking solutions Morris Street Summer Hill 946
C1025(1) Item 40 Notice of Motion: Council Reports 951
C1025(1) Item 41 Notice of Motion: Glebe Island Bridge Advocacy 952
C1025(1) Item 42 Notice of Motion: Transport for NSW Consultation on McGill Street Access 953
14 Questions From Councillors
ITEM Page
C1025(1) Item 43 Question on Notice: Callan Park 954
15 Reports with Confidential Information
Reports appearing in this section of the Business Paper contain confidential information in attachments.
The confidential information has been circulated separately.
ITEM Page
C1025(1) Item 44 Public Exhibition - Voluntary Planning Agreement - 67 Victoria Road, Rozelle 960
C1025(1) Item 45 Public Exhibition - Voluntary Planning Agreement - 186 Victoria Road, Rozelle 961
C1025(1) Item 46 Quarterly Strategic Investment Property Report 962
C1025(1) Item 47 Panel of Code of Conduct Reviewers 966
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Minutes of Ordinary Council Meeting held on 23 September 2025 at Ashfield Service Centre
Meeting commenced at 6.33pm
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Present: |
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Darcy Byrne Mat Howard Chloe Smith
Liz Atkins Olivia Barlow Andrew Blake Jo Carlisle Vicki Clay Jessica D’Arienzo Kerrie Fergusson Victor Macri Vittoria Raciti Philippa Scott Simone Plummer |
Mayor Deputy Mayor Elected as Deputy Mayor during Item 1 the Deputy Mayor Election held at this meeting Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor General Manager Director Planning |
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Ruth Callaghan |
Director Community |
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Sharon Bowman Peter Shields Ryann Midei Matthew Pearce |
Director Corporate Director Engineering Director Property and Major Projects General Counsel |
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George Georgakis Manod Wickramasinghe Erin White Scott Mullen Rocco Sergi Katherine Paixao Carmelina Giannini |
Administration Manager Traffic and Transport Planning Manager Resource Recovery & Fleet Manager Strategic Investments and Property Manager Coordinator Strategic Investments and Properties Business Paper Coordinator Executive Assistant to Director Community |
APOLOGIES AND REQUEST FOR REMOTE PARTICIPATION:
Motion: (Byrne/Atkins)
That apologies from Councillor Tastan be accepted.
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith
Against Motion: Nil
Motion (Atkins/Barlow)
That apologies from Councillor Antoniou be accepted.
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith
Against Motion: Nil
DISCLOSURES OF INTEREST:
Councillor Scott declared a non-significant, non-pecuniary interest in relation to Item 53 - Together2: Social Enterprise Cafe for disability employment as her son volunteers at the community organisation. She will remain in the meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.
Councillor Scott declared a significant, pecuniary interest in relation to Item 55 - Lambert Park Sporting Ground - APIA Lease Conditions as she her home is adjacent to Lambert Park. She will leave the meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.
Councillor Scott declared a significant, pecuniary interest in relation to Item 56 - Public Exhibition - Voluntary Planning Agreement - 67-75 Lords Road, Leichhardt as her home is adjacent to the planning site. She will leave the meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.
Councillor Blake declared a significant, pecuniary interest in relation to Item 15 - 2025 Inner West Council Annual Grant Program as his partner and her dance business have applied for various grants in this upcoming grants round. He will leave the meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.
Councillor Blake declared a significant, pecuniary interest in relation to Item 17 - Reconciliation Action Plan Update and Engagement as the item references the Anti-Racism program which has engaged Western Sydney University’s Challenging Racism Program. His partner is a facilitator with that program as part of her role at Western Sydney University. He will leave the meeting during voting and discussion on the matter.
Councillor Barlow declared a non-significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 3 - Local Traffic Committee Meetings - 16 June 2025 and 21 July 2025 as she works in the Office of Kobi Shetty MP, who in her capacity as the Member for Balmain, has a representative on the Traffic Committee. She will remain in the meeting during discussion and voting on the matter as the vote is exercised through a representative.
Councillor Barlow declared a non-significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 9 - Local Transport Forum Meetings - 18 August 2025 and 1 September 2025 as she works in the Office of Kobi Shetty MP, who in her capacity as the Member for Balmain, has a representative on the Traffic Committee. She will remain in the meeting during discussion and voting on the matter as the vote is exercised through a representative.
Councillor Raciti declared a non-significant, non-pecuniary interest in relation to Item 6 - Post Exhibition - Blackmore Park Plan of Management as she lives nearby. She will leave the meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.
Councillor Raciti declared a significant, pecuniary interest in relation to Item 55 - Lambert Park Sporting Ground - APIA Lease Conditions as her husband is the President of the Leichhardt Tigers, and her son is on the board. She will leave the meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.
Councillor Raciti declared a significant, pecuniary interest in relation to Item 56 - Public Exhibition - Voluntary Planning Agreement - 67-75 Lords Road, Leichhardt as it is located next to Lambert Park. She will leave the meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.
Motion: (Howard/Fergusson)
That Council note the disclosures of interest.
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith
Against Motion: Nil
CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
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That the Minutes of the Council Meeting held on Tuesday, 19 August 2025 be confirmed as a correct record subject to the following amendment: - Under the Procedural Motion to Suspend Standing Orders and move items in globo, update the title for item 55 from ‘Advertising’ to ‘Advancing’, so that it reads: “Advancing Disability Access in Council Street Infrastructure”.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Nil |
PUBLIC FORUM
The registered speakers were asked to address the meeting. The list of speakers is available on the last page of these minutes.
Procedural Motion (Howard/Atkins)
That Council Suspend Standing Orders to bring forward the following items to be dealt with at this time:
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith
Against Motion: Nil
Procedural Motion (Howard/Atkins)
That the following items be moved in globo and the recommendations contained within the report be adopted:
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith
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C0925(1)
Item 8 Flood
Management Advisory Committee Meeting - 27 August |
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That Council receive the minutes and adopt the recommendations of the Flood Management Advisory Committee meeting held on 27 August 2025.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Nil |
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That Council receive and note the report.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Nil |
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C0925(1) Item 33 Notice of Motion: Vietnamese Refugee Memorial |
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1. That Council note the resolution C0425(1) Item 26 of 29 April 2025 to acknowledge the contribution of Vietnamese Refugees to the Inner West.
2. That Councill further resolve that this acknowledgement should take the form of a permanent memorial and that it be located in the vicinity of Little Vietnam in Marrickville.
3. That Council begin consultation with the Vietnamese community and Marrickville community on the establishment of a permanent memorial.
4. That Council construct and dedicate the memorial prior to 30 April 2026, ensuring it is delivered within the year commemorating 50 years since the end of the Vietnam War.
5. That Council apportion funding from the main streets revitalisation fund to deliver the project.
6. That Council receive a progress report via councillor briefing note in September 2025, outlining the timeline, costs and consultation and engagement schedule for the establishment of a permanent memorial.
7. That Council engage staff from both the Communities Directorate and Infrastructure Directorate in the delivery of the memorial.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Nil |
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C0925(1) Item 36 Notice of Motion: Gambling Harm Minimisation in Children |
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1. That Council note support for Gambling Harm Minimisation in the Inner West community.
2. That Council include GambleAware Week 20-26 October 2025 in online communications and on the Council website.
3. That Council note data from the Office of Responsible Gambling indicating nearly 30% of children have gambled.
4. That Council support the Office of Responsible Gambling initiatives to address gambling harm in children by making Council venue(s) available (where requested) for the conduct of GambleAware information sessions by the Office of Responsible Gambling, for Inner West parents and children.
5. That Council provide the GambleAware resource information to the Youth Interagency.
6. That Council provide GambleAware resource information to Council’s Youth Local Democracy Group
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Nil |
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1. That Council determines, pursuant to section 55(3)(i) of the Local Government Act 1993 that a satisfactory result would not be achieved by openly inviting tenders for the provision of productivity and collaboration software, due to the following extenuating circumstances: a) The Microsoft 365 suite remains the most prudent and strategically aligned choice for Council, and the costs and risks associated with alternative productivity and collaboration platforms are unacceptable b) There would be no better outcome by proceeding to open tender given the favourable pricing provided under the Microsoft Enterprise Agreement (EA) using the Digital NSW Prequalification Scheme: ICT Services (SCM0020)
2. That Council notes that entering into a new 3-year Enterprise Agreement with Microsoft by 31 October, 2025 (rather than waiting until renewal is due in February 2026) may avoid over $600,000 in costs over the 3-year contract term.
3. That Council delegates authority to Council’s General Manager to enter into an agreement with Microsoft (via its Transacting partner) for a new 3-year Enterprise Agreement, via the Digital NSW Prequalification Scheme: ICT Services (SCM0020), once approval and final pricing is provided.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Nil
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C0925(1)
Item 60 Appointment of Independent Audit,
Risk and Improvement |
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1. That Council receive the minutes and adopt the recommendations of the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee meeting held on 27 August 2025.
2. That Council resolves to appoint Ms Helen Hu as an Independent Member to the Inner West Council Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee, for a period of four (4) years, with an option for re- appointment for a further 4 years, subject to a formal review of the member’s performance.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Nil |
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C0925(1) Item 2 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Hub |
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Motion: (Carlisle/Scott)
1. That Council notes the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Democracy Group’s endorsement at its meeting on 15 July 2025 of the building located adjacent to 24A Australia Street in Camperdown Park, as the preferred site for the proposed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Hub.
2. That Council endorse the building located adjacent to 24A Australia Street in Camperdown Park, as the site for the proposed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Hub.
3. That Council endorse proceeding with the commencement of concept designs and cost estimates for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Hub at Camperdown Park and ensure the inclusions in the initial concept design and site plan provided to Council at the December 2024 meeting are captured in these plans.
4. That Council endorse proceeding with concept designs and cost estimates for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Hub at Camperdown Park.
5. That Council calls for construction to be completed by mid 2027.
6. That Council preferences contracting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-run businesses, suppliers and products in the delivery of the hub.
7. That Council endorse the demolition of the former Tempe Jets Club building in Tempe Reserve in line with the Tempe Reserve Plan of Management, and demolition of the adjacent remote control racetrack, pending the following actions being taken: a) Council write to Tempe residents notifying them of the necessity to demolish the Tempe Jets Club due to safety and other concerns, detailing the current state of the building and grounds, indicating the future projects for the land it sits on, and noting council’s work to upgrade the Robyn Webster Indoor Sports Centre and include community space as part of that project, subject to community consultation; b) bring a report to Council before December 2025 outlining the future use of the land the Tempe Jets Club sits on and indicating clear proposals, costs and timeframes for future uses of the land; and c) create a record of use at the site to recognise the significance of the Club to the Tempe community and work with local historians and artists to exhibit, publish or display this history, either online or in person at a point in the future.
8. That Council provides funding of $500,000 to be allocated as part of the first quarterly 2025/26 budget review for the demolition of the former Tempe Jets Club building and adjacent remote control racetrack.
9. That Council notes the significant work done to date by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Democracy Group, community members and experts to develop a vision for an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Hub in the Inner West, thanks them for their work, and commits to their ongoing inclusion in these construction efforts.
10. That Council officers report back to the October 2025 Council meeting on potential funding sources and procurement strategies for an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Hub.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Nil |
Procedural Motion (Howard/Scott)
That Council allow Clr Smith to speak for 1 additional minute on Item 3.
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith
Against Motion: Nil
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C0925(1) Item 5 Financially Sustainable Service Delivery Program |
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1. That Council endorse the Financially Sustainable Service Delivery Program. The program will entail a comprehensive review of all expenditure, revenue, and service levels.
2. That the review does not reduce service levels in childcare, libraries and arts, aquatic centres, waste collection, parking and ranger services, events, parks and streetscape maintenance, and community centres and wellbeing.
3. That Council receive a report at the February 2026 Council meeting with the outcome of the Financially Sustainable Service Delivery Program.
4. That the General Manager report to the December 2025 Council meeting with an update and to each Audit Risk and Improvement Committee (ARIC) meeting until the program is completed.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Nil |
Councillor Raciti left the Meeting at 7:38 pm as she declared a non-significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 6 as she lives nearby.
Councillor Raciti returned to the Meeting at 7:42 pm.
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1. That Council delegate authority to the General Manager to award the tender for the Supply of Waste Collection Vehicles.
2. That Council delegate authority to the General Manager to execute any contract for the Supply of Waste Collection Vehicles and to authorise variations to these contracts for a contingency amount valued at 10% of the contract value.
3. That Council are advised of the tender outcome for the Supply of Waste Collection Vehicles including awarded amount, supplier, environmental benefits and timing for commencement of operations.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Nil |
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That Council defer this matter to a workshop to fully explore the challenges and benefits.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Nil |
Councillor Blake left the Meeting at 8:00 pm as he declared a significant, pecuniary interest in relation to Item 15 as his partner and her dance business have applied for various grants in this upcoming grants round.
Councillor Blake returned to the Meeting at 8:03 pm.
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That Council endorse the councillor representation as outlined in the staff report subject to the following amendments: a) The General Manager’s Performance Assessment Panel: the Mayor Clr Byrne, the Deputy Mayor Clr Smith, Clr Howard and Clr Antoniou; b) Flood Management Advisory Committee: Cr Howard (Chair) and Clr Blake; and c) Southern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (SSROC): The Mayor Clr Byrne, Clr Howard, Clr Atkins (alternate), Clr Raciti (alternate).
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Nil |
Councillor Blake left the Meeting at 8:04 pm as he declared a significant, pecuniary interest in relation to Item 17 - Reconciliation Action Plan Update and Engagement as the item references the Anti-Racism program which has engaged Western Sydney University’s Challenging Racism Program. His partner is a facilitator with that program as part of her role at Western Sydney University.
Councillor Blake returned to the Meeting at 8:14 pm.
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1. That Council receive and note the report.
2. That Council note the correct key milestone date for Planning and Investigations – Delivery program, stakeholder identification and project risk identification is July – September 2025.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Nil |
Councillor Clay left the Meeting at 8:17 pm.
Councillor Clay returned to the Meeting at 8:23 pm.
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1. That Council receive and note the report.
2. That future iterations of the report be renamed ‘Update on Creative Town Halls Program’ and focus on the metrics of the Creative Town Halls program, to be authored by the Director Community.
3. That Council commence ongoing promotion and advertising of the creative town halls program.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Nil |
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That Council receive a further update at the November 2025 Ordinary Council meeting.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Nil |
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That a report on the use and annual fee for car share spaces to include a comparison of other councils to come back to Council for consideration at the February 2026 meeting.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Nil |
Councillor Raciti left the Meeting at 8:40 pm.
Procedural Motion (Byrne/Atkins)
That Council allow Clr Blake to speak for 1 additional minute on Item 30.
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Scott and Smith
Against Motion: Nil
Absent: Cr Raciti
Councillor Raciti returned to the Meeting at 8:48 pm.
Procedural Motion (Howard/Clay)
That Council allow Clr Smith to speak for 1 additional minute on Item 30.
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith
Against Motion: Nil
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C0925(1) Item 30 Notice of Motion: Tree Removal at 54 Thornley Street Leichhardt |
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1. That Council note that: a) Thornley Street is a quiet residential street situated on the Excelsior Estate running north to south; b) Outside 54 Thornley Street is a 16m tall Yellow Bloodwood tree which is one the last remaining mature aged tree within the area; c) The tree plays significant functions such as: i. Canopy and shade; ii. Emotional solace to those waiting at Leichhardt Women’s Medical Centre; and iii. Home to multiple species of mammals including possums, and birds, including lorikeets, cockatoos and currawongs.
d) On about 5 June 2025, Council affixed a tree removal notice to the tree; e) On 6 June 2025, a local resident submitted a GIPA application in respect of the tree (Attachment 3). The GIPA application sought production of documents dated or coming into existence on or after 1 January 2023 concerning, constituting or on the subject matter of any of the following: i. The decision made by the Inner West Council to issue a tree removal notice dated on or about 6 June 2025. ii. The reasons for the decision. iii. Inspections of the tree by employees and/or consultants of the Inner West Council. iv. Assessments by employees and/or consultants of the Inner West Council on the condition of the tree including written reports.
e) On 10 June 2025, being 2 business days after affixing the notice, Council commenced preparatory works to remove the tree the following date by placing bollards outside 54 Thornley Street. There were no extenuating circumstances requiring the removal of the tree within 14 days after the affixing of the notice and such action was contrary to Section 9 of Council’s Urban Forest Policy adopted 20 May 2025. f) On 10 June 2025, Council stopped the works to remove the tree following representations by Clr Philippa Scott. g) On a date after 10 June 2025, council replaced the tree removal notice with a second notice. The notice advises that a replacement Brush Box (understood to be “100 litre” tree) shall be planted as part of Council’s 2025/2026 Tree Planting Program if the tree is removed. h) On about 22 June 2025, residents established a petition calling for the recission of the decision to remove the tree. Notice of the petition was given to residents via a letter box drop to the 500 houses closest to the tree and posts to the Leichhardt Community Group Facebook page. As at 10:00am on 9 August 2025, 380 residents have signed the petition i) On about 17 July 2025, Council responded to the GIPA Application by only providing an extract from its CRM and correspondence to/from Councillors and residents dated after the first removal notice was affixed to the tree. j) On 30 July 2024, Michael Tay, Coordinator Public Tree prepared an Inspection Report addressing details of his inspection of the tree on 21 March 2025 and the reasons for the tree’s removal. In his report, Mr Tay considered that: i. The condition of the tree is good, and it is generally healthy. ii. The only reason for its removal is because, in his opinion, there are no practical remedial options to reinstate the footway to a conforming level and width k) Residents have commissioned Margot Blues, Consulting Arborist (AQ5) to prepare an independent report on the condition of the tree. In her report dated 4 August 2025 Ms Blues expressed opinions to the following effect: l) Her TRAQ assessment resulted in an overall tree risk rating of LOW and an overall residual risk rating of LOW. i. As the tree is mature, in good health and well established, its removal should be the last consideration especially from an environmental viewpoint. ii. The tree has a very high retention value based on its health, condition, environmental benefits, prominence and estimated remaining ULE. iii. The slight disruption to the footpath … would not seem significant enough to warrant the removal of such a mature healthy tree. [The issue] could be managed and the tree retained.
2. That Council accept the petition tabled as Attachment 2 to this Notice of Motion.
3. That Council requests the General Manager to: a) Rescind the decision made on or before 5 June 2025 to remove the tree situated at 54 Thornley Street, Leichhardt (Tree). b) Commission a report from a suitably qualified independent environmental consultant (Environmental Consultant) to provide advice and recommendations in respect of Council’s obligations under the NSW Biodiversity and Conservation Act (NSW) 2016 and the Commonwealth Environmental Protection and Biodiversity and Conservation Act (Cth), and on receiving such a report act in accordance with the recommendations made the Environmental Consultant. c) Work with residents of Thornley to explore options for repairing the cracked footpath, include ramps, and/or constructing a footpath around the eastern side of the tree. d) In the event that Council has demonstrated that it has fulfilled its obligations with the above acts and exhausted all engineering options to preserve the tree, a replacement tree is to within four weeks of the removal of the Tree as part of its 2025/2026 tree planting program. e) If the tree is to be removed, a wildlife removal plan is to be put in place before removing the tree.
Motion Lost For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow and Blake Against Motion: Crs Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith |
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1. That Council notes the recent allocation of funds required to install lighting along the Cooks River Pathway from Kendrick Park, Tempe, to Steel Park, Marrickville.
2. That Council acknowledges that this funding is the result of tireless community advocacy following the abhorrent attack of a young woman on the Cooks River Pathway in 2023.
3. That Council recognises the critical contribution of community members, such as Kiera Mackenzie, who have worked to raise awareness around the lack of lighting along the river, as well as local organisations such as the Cooks River Alliance, Mudcrabs, and Marrickville Football Club.
4. That Council continue to support ongoing community initiatives aimed at improving safety along the Cooks River and throughout the Inner West.
5. That Council ask council officers to add the Cooks River lighting project to the agenda and regular reporting of the Major Projects Committee.
6. That Council provide regular updates of progress to the community, Marrickville Football Club, Cooks River Alliance, and the Office of the Member for Summer Hill and Office of the Member for Heffron.
7. That Council, given the funding commitment from the State Government, and following a further assessment of costs for the Cooks River Lighting project, reallocate any surplus funding initially dedicated to the project in the Inner West Council’s operational budget to fund the upgrade of lighting, footpaths, safety upgrades and other infrastructure as part of the Sydenham Road Strategy.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Nil
Amendment (Barlow/Atkins)
That Council amend point 7 to: 7. That Council, given the funding commitment from the State Government, and following a further assessment of the costs for the Cooks River Lighting project, reallocate any surplus funding initially dedicated to the project in the Inner West Council’s operational budget to fund the additional safety priorities identified along the Cooks River Walk including pathway maintenance, vegetation and fenceline maintenance, and signage through parks and pathways.
Motion Lost For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow and Blake Against Motion: Crs Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith |
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1. That Council undertake a full review of road safety around local schools in the Inner West Council area, with the ambition of improving road safety for students, pedestrians, cyclists and all road users.
2. That Council include as part of the review: a) A safety and accessibility assessment of all existing infrastructure, including pedestrian crossings, footpaths, cycleways, signalling, signage, parking, line markings, and kiss and ride arrangements; b) A program of maintenance of existing infrastructure to improve safety and accessibility; c) Opportunities for new infrastructure or traffic arrangements that will improve road safety and accessibility around schools; and d) Opportunities to trial a reduction in school zone speeds to 30 km/her in select locations.
3. That Council directly engage schools, P&C’s/P&F’s, students, residents surrounding schools, and local businesses, in the review, through both direct engagement and a community survey.
4. That Council publicise the review in the Inner West Community News and other council communication channels.
5. That Council directly engage the Department of Education, independent and catholic schools associations, and Transport for NSW in the review.
6. That Council directly engage the Department of Education, independent and religious schools associations, accessibility experts, and Transport for NSW in the audit.
7. That Council undertake to address any urgent safety-critical maintenance of existing infrastructure as it arises, and as a priority.
8. That Council fund the review through existing operational budgets, any critical maintenance works identified through the quarterly budget review process, and any other medium and long-term works through future budget processes.
9. That Council provide a councillor briefing before December 2025 to update councillors on the staff’s recommended approach to undertake this work and on progress made.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Nil |
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1. That Council acknowledges the right to peaceful protest is fundamental to a mature democracy.
2. That Council notes that this right has been under attack in New South Wales.
3. That Council calls on the NSW Government to repeal recent changes to the law that have criminalised the right to protest.
4. That Council writes to the NSW Premier, Opposition Leader and all local State MPs advocating for this change.
5. That Council submits points 1-3 of this motion to the Local Government NSW 2025 Annual Conference.
Motion Lost For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow and Blake Against Motion: Crs Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith |
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C0925(1)
Item 37 Notice of Motion: Delivering new
homes in the Parramatta Road |
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1. That Council seek a partnership with the NSW Government to undertake further residential rezoning of the Parramatta Road corridor, with the aim of delivering up to 8000 new homes in the section of the corridor within the Inner West local government area. a) This is to be undertaken through a state significant development process, with Inner West council as a participating partner. The methodology for the investigations would replicate the locally based planning and block-by-block analysis that has been the basis of the Our Fairer Future plan (Inner West LEP 2025); and b) The planning process should also include early comprehensive community consultation, including with land owners, consideration of transport, public domain improvements, open space, not-for-profit housing, commercial and retail opportunities, and improvements to the streetscape.
2. That Council write to the NSW Premier and the NSW Planning Minister seeking their agreement to commence this project immediately, with close collaboration between the Inner West council and the Department of Planning.
3. That Council note that our advocacy for the conversion of the former Westconnex dive site at Camperdown to a mixed residential development has been successful in achieving 200 new publicly owned homes as part of the development. a) Restate as part of this proposal to the NSW Government that the remaining two residual WestConnex sites in Ashfield and Haberfield should be converted to residential with public housing incorporated, based on the already established model at Camperdown.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow and Blake |
Councillor Scott left the Meeting at 9:26 pm.
Councillor Scott returned to the Meeting at 9:35 pm.
Councillor Carlisle left the Meeting at 9:39 pm.
Councillor Carlisle returned to the Meeting at 9:42 pm.
Procedural Motion: (Howard/Scott)
That Council enter into Confidential session.
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith
Against Motion: Nil
Confidential Session
That in accordance with Section 10A(1) of the Local Government Act 1993, the following matters be considered in Closed Session of Council for the reasons provided:
C0925(1) Item 53 Together2: Social Enterprise Cafe for disability employment (Section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business.
C0925(1) Item 54 Domestic Violence Hubs contains matters affecting the security of the council, councillors, council staff or council property (Section 10A(2)(f) of the Local Government Act 1993).
C0925(1) Item 55 Lambert Park Sporting Ground - APIA Lease Conditions (Section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business.
C0925(1) Item 56 Public Exhibition - Voluntary Planning Agreement - 67-75 Lords Road, Leichhardt (Section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business.
resolutions passed during closed session
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1. That Council endorse the trial of a Domestic Violence Hub at the location outlined in this report.
2. That Council requests an update on the trial to be reported to Council in June 2026 and the outcomes of the trial be reported to Council by December 2026.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Nil |
Councillor Scott left the Meeting at 9:49 pm as she declared a significant, pecuniary interest in Item 55 as her home is adjacent to Lambert Park.
Councillor Raciti retired from the Meeting at 9:49 pm as she declared significant, pecuniary interest in relation to Item 55 as her husband is the President of the Leichhardt Tigers, and her son is on the board.
Motion: (Howard/Macri)
That Council move back into the Open Session of the Council Meeting.
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri and Smith
Against Motion: Nil
Absent: Crs Raciti and Scott
Councillor Scott returned to the Meeting at 10:12 pm.
Meeting closed at 10.12pm.
Public Speakers:
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Item #
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Speaker |
Suburb |
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Item 6: |
Katarina Addicoat Laura Arnott Christina Valentine |
Lilyfield Lilyfield Leichhardt |
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Item 14: |
Kirsten Junor |
Marrickville |
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Item 28: |
Fiorella Gioia Brad Greentree Vania Gioia |
Leichhardt Leichhardt Lilyfield |
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Proceedings of the Public Forum held on 22 September 2025 held at Ashfield Service Centre for the 30 September 2025 Extraordinary Council Meeting
Public Forum commenced at 6.35pm
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Present: |
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Darcy Byrne Mat Howard Izabella Antoniou Liz Atkins Olivia Barlow Andrew Blake Jo Carlisle Vicki Clay Jessica D’Arienzo Kerrie Fergusson Victor Macri Vittoria Raciti Philippa Scott Chloe Smith Simone Plummer |
Mayor Deputy Mayor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor General Manager Director Planning |
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Ruth Callaghan |
Director Community |
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Sharon Bowman Peter Shields Ryann Midei Matthew Pearce |
Director Corporate Director Engineering Director Property and Major Projects General Counsel |
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George Georgakis Katherine Paixao |
Administration Manager Business Paper Coordinator |
Procedural Motion: (Smith/Scott)
That the ABC be given permission to film proceedings during the public forum.
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith
Against Motion: Nil
APOLOGIES:
Motion: (Byrne/Atkins)
That apologies from Councillor Tastan be accepted.
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith
Against Motion: Nil
DISCLOSURES OF INTEREST:
Councillor Blake declared a pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing in the Inner West due to his principal residence being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, he made, prior to this Public Forum, a Special Disclosure, in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such he will remain in the Public Forum. He tabled his Special Disclosure tonight for inclusion in Council’s minutes. He will also make a further declaration when Council continues the Extraordinary Meeting on 30 September 2025, and he will remain in the Public Forum.
Councillor Atkins declared a pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing in the Inner West due to their principal residence being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, they made, prior to the Public Forum, a Special Disclosure in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such they will remain in the Public Forum. They tabled their Special Disclosure tonight for inclusion in Council’s minutes. They will also make a further declaration when Council continues the Extraordinary Meeting on 30 September 2025, and they will remain in the Public Forum.
Councillor Barlow declared pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing in the Inner West due to her principal residence and the principal residence of her associates being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, she made, prior to this Public Forum, Special Disclosures, in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such she will remain in the Public Forum. She tabled her Special Disclosures tonight for inclusion in Council’s minutes. She will also make a further declaration when Council continues the Extraordinary Meeting on 30 September 2025, and she will remain in the Public Forum.
Councillor Antoniou declared a pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing in the Inner West due to her principal residence being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, she made, prior to the Public Forum, a Special Disclosure in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such she will remain in the Public Forum. She tabled her Special Disclosure tonight for inclusion in Council’s minutes. She will also make a further declaration when Council continues the Extraordinary Meeting on 30 September 2025, and she will remain in the Public Forum.
Councillor Raciti declared a pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing in the Inner West due to her principal residence and the principal residence of her associates being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, she made, prior to the Public Forum, Special Disclosures in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such she will remain in the Public Forum. She tabled her Special Disclosures tonight for inclusion in Council’s minutes. She will also make a further declaration when Council continues the Extraordinary Meeting on 30 September 2025, and she will remain in the Public Forum.
Councillor Raciti declared a significant, pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing due to property interests in Haberfield within the area identified in item 1. She will also make a further declaration when Council continues the Extraordinary Meeting on 30 September 2025, and she will remain in the Public Forum.
Councillor Macri declared a pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing due the principal residence of his associates being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, he made, prior to this Public Forum, Special Disclosures, in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such he will remain in the Public Forum. He tabled his Special Disclosures tonight for inclusion in Council’s minutes. He will also make a further declaration when Council continues the Extraordinary Meeting on 30 September 2025, and he will remain in the Public Forum.
Councillor Macri declared a significant, pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing due to property interests in Marrickville within the area identified in item 1. He will also make a further declaration when Council continues the Extraordinary Meeting on 30 September 2025, and he will remain in the Public Forum.
Councillor Smith declared a pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing due to her principal residence and the principal residence of her associates being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, she made, prior to this Public Forum, Special Disclosures, in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such she will remain in the Public Forum. She tabled her Special Disclosures tonight for inclusion in Council’s minutes. She will also make a further declaration when Council continues the Extraordinary Meeting on 30 September 2025, and she will remain in the Public Forum.
Councillor Fergusson declared a pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing due to her principal residence and the principal residence of her associates being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, she made, prior to this Public Forum, Special Disclosures in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such she will remain in the Public Forum. She tabled her Special Disclosures tonight for inclusion in Council’s minutes. She will also make a further declaration when Council continues the Extraordinary Meeting on 30 September 2025, and she will remain in the Public Forum.
Councillor Howard declared a pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing due to his principal residence and the principal residence of his associate being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, he made, prior to this Public Forum, Special Disclosures in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such he will remain in the Public Forum. He tabled his Special Disclosures tonight for inclusion in Council’s minutes. He will also make a further declaration when Council continues the Extraordinary Meeting on 30 September 2025, and he will remain in the Public Forum.
Councillor Clay pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing due to her principal residence being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, she made, prior to this public forum, a Special Disclosure, in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such she will remain in the Public Forum. She tabled her Special Disclosure tonight for inclusion in Council’s minutes. She will also make a further declaration when Council continues the Extraordinary Meeting on 30 September 2025, and she will remain in the Public Forum.
Councillor Scott declared a pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing due to her principal residence and the principal residence of her associates being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, she made, prior to this public forum, Special Disclosures in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such she will remain in the Public Forum. She tabled her Special Disclosures tonight for inclusion in Council’s minutes. She will also make a further declaration when Council continues the Extraordinary Meeting on 30 September 2025, and she will remain in the Public Forum.
Councillor Carlisle declared a pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing due to her principal residence being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, she made, prior to this Public Forum, a Special Disclosure in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such she will remain in the Public Forum. She tabled her Special Disclosure tonight for inclusion in Council’s minutes. She will also make a further declaration when Council continues the Extraordinary Meeting on 30 September 2025, and she will remain in the Public Forum.
Councillor Carlisle declared a significant, pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing due to property interests in St Peters and Marrickville within the area identified in item 1. She will also make a further declaration when Council continues the Extraordinary Meeting on 30 September 2025, and she will remain in the Public Forum.
Councillor D’Arienzo declared a pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing due to her principal residence and the principal residence of her associate being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, she made, prior to this Public Forum, Special Disclosures in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such she will remain in the Public Forum. She tabled her Special Disclosures tonight for inclusion in Council’s minutes. She will also make a further declaration when Council continues the Extraordinary Meeting on 30 September 2025, and she will remain in the Public Forum.
The Mayor, Councillor Byrne, declared a pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing due to his principal residence and the principal residence of his associate being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, he made, prior to the public forum, Special Disclosures in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such he will remain in the Public Forum. He tabled his Special Disclosures tonight for inclusion in Council’s minutes. He will also make a further declaration when Council continues the Extraordinary Meeting on 30 September 2025, and he will remain in the Public Forum.
The Mayor, Councillor Byrne declared a significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing in respect of the Rozelle and Leichhardt as he has a close personal relationship with persons with property interests in Rozelle and Leichhardt. He considers this a significant, non-pecuniary interest as it is a personal relationship that does not involve a pecuniary interest for him for the purposes of the Code of Conduct, but could give rise to a perception that he might be influenced by a private interest when considering this matter. Out of an abundance of caution and in the interest of full transparency, he will leave the meeting during the discussion and voting on Item 1 regarding Rozelle and Leichhardt at the Extraordinary meeting on 30 September 2025.
The General Manager declared a significant, pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing due to the principal residence of his associate being within the area identified in item 1. He advised Council that he has not participated in the preparation of the report or discussions in relation to Item 1. He will make a further declaration in the meeting on 30 September and will stay in the public forum.
The Director Community declared a significant, pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing due to her principal residence being within the area identified in item 1. She advised Council that he has not participated in the preparation of the report or discussions in relation to Item 1. She will leave the meeting during discussion and voting on the matter. She will make a further declaration in the meeting on 30 September and will stay in the public forum.
Procedural Motion: (Byrne/Howard)
That the Sydney Morning Herald be given permission to take photographs during the public forum.
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith
Against Motion: Nil
PUBLIC FORUM
The registered speakers were asked to address the Public Forum. The list of speakers are available at the end of the minutes prior to the tabled Special Disclosures.
The Mayor, Councillor Byrne left the Public Forum at 8:16 pm and vacated the chair. The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Howard assumed the chair.
Councillor Blake left the Public Forum at 8:21 pm.
Councillor Blake returned to the Public Forum at 8:24 pm.
Councillor Clay left the Public Forum at 8:29 pm.
Councillor Clay returned to the Public Forum at 8:37 pm.
Councillor D'Arienzo left the Public Forum at 8:40 pm.
Councillor D'Arienzo returned to the Public Forum at 8:44 pm.
The Mayor, Councillor Byrne returned to the Public Forum at 8:44 pm. The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Howard vacated the chair and the Mayor, Councillor Byrne assumed the chair.
Councillor Scott left the Public Forum at 8:45 pm.
Councillor Scott returned to the Public Forum at 8:50 pm.
Councillor Barlow left the Public Forum at 8:52 pm.
Councillor Antoniou left the Public Forum at 8:55 pm.
Councillor Barlow returned to the Public Forum at 8:56 pm.
Councillor Raciti left the Public Forum at 8:57 pm.
Councillor Antoniou returned to the Public Forum at 8:58 pm.
Councillor Carlisle left the Public Forum at 9:01 pm.
Councillor Carlisle returned to the Public Forum at 9:04 pm.
Councillor Smith left the Public Forum at 9:08 pm.
Councillor Raciti returned to the Public Forum at 9:08 pm.
Councillor Smith returned to the Public Forum at 9:12 pm.
Councillor Macri left the Public Forum at 9:35 pm.
Councillor Macri returned to the Public Forum at 9:40 pm.
Councillor Howard left the Public Forum at 9:44 pm.
Councillor Howard returned to the Public Forum at 9:49 pm.
The Mayor, Councillor Byrne left the Public Forum at 9:54 pm and vacated the chair. The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Howard assumed the chair.
The Mayor, Councillor Byrne returned to the Public Forum at 10:07 pm. The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Howard vacated the chair and the Mayor, Councillor Byrne assumed the chair.
Councillor Atkins left the Public Forum at 10:19 pm.
Councillor Atkins returned to the Public Forum at 10:22 pm.
Meeting adjourned at 10:43 pm to recommence at 6:30 pm Tuesday, 30 September 2025 at Ashfield Service Centre.
Minutes of Extraordinary Council Meeting held on 30 September 2025 at Ashfield Service Centre
Meeting commenced at 6.30pm
** The public forum for this meeting was held on Monday 22 September 2025 at 6.30pm at Ashfield Service Centre.***
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Present: |
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Darcy Byrne Chloe Smith Izabella Antoniou Liz Atkins Olivia Barlow Andrew Blake Jo Carlisle Vicki Clay Jessica D’Arienzo Kerrie Fergusson Mat Howard Victor Macri Vittoria Raciti Philippa Scott Ismet Tastan Simone Plummer |
Mayor Deputy Mayor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor General Manager Director Planning |
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Ruth Callaghan |
Director Community |
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Sharon Bowman Peter Shields Ryann Midei Matthew Pearce |
Director Corporate Director Engineering Director Property and Major Projects General Counsel |
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George Georgakis Gunika Singh Bernadette Balatbat Daniel East Katherine Paixao Carmelina Giannini |
Administration Manager Team Leader Planning Operations Strategic Planner Senior Manager Strategic Planning Business Paper Coordinator Executive Assistant to Director Community |
APOLOGIES AND REQUEST FOR REMOTE PARTICIPATION:
Nil
Procedural Motion (Howard/Atkins)
That Council, for the Extraordinary Council Meeting at which it will consider the Our Fairer Future Plan:
1. Not apply the restriction in clause 9.19 of the Code of Meeting Practice on the number of questions a councillor can ask in respect of an item on the agenda, to enable Councillors to ask multiple questions in respect of an item on the agenda.
2. Not apply the restriction in clauses 10.21-10.22 of the Code of Meeting Practice on the number of times a Councillor can speak to a motion or an amendment, to enable Councillors to speak on multiple occasions to a motion or amendment, however limit the number of times they may do so to 3 times.
3. Not apply the restriction on speaking times in clause 10.22 of the Code of Meeting Practice, to enable a Councillor to speak for longer than 2 minutes on a motion or amendment, and instead permit a Councillor to:
a) Speak for no longer than 5 minutes on the first occasion that the Councillor speaks to a motion or amendment; and
b) Speak for no longer than 2 minutes on any subsequent occasion that the same Councillor speaks to the same motion or amendment.
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan
Against Motion: Nil
DISCLOSURES OF INTEREST:
Councillor Blake declared a pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing in the Inner West due to his principal residence being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, he made, prior to the meeting, a Special Disclosure, in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such he will remain in the Meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.
Councillor Tastan declared a pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing in the Inner West due to his principal residence being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, he made, prior to the meeting, a Special Disclosure, in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such he will remain in the Meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.
Councillor Atkins declared a pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing in the Inner West due to their principal residence being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, they made, prior to the Meeting, a Special Disclosure in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such they will remain in the Meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.
Councillor Barlow declared pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing in the Inner West due to her principal residence and the principal residence of her associates being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, she made, prior to the meeting, Special Disclosures, in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such she will remain in the Meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.
Councillor Antoniou declared a pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing in the Inner West due to her principal residence being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, she made, prior to the Meeting, a Special Disclosure in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such she will remain in the Meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.
Councillor Raciti declared a pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing in the Inner West due to her principal residence and the principal residence of her associates being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, she made, prior to the Meeting, Special Disclosures in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such she will remain in the Meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.
Councillor Raciti declared a significant, pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing in respect of motion 2 Haberfield which corresponds to Officer recommendation 2 Haberfield (which was later considered by Council as motion 8). She will leave the meeting during discussion and voting on Item 1 regarding Haberfield.
Councillor Macri declared a pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing due the principal residence of his associates being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, he made, prior to the meeting, Special Disclosures, in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such he will remain in the Meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.
Councillor Macri declared a significant, pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing in respect of motion 4 Marrickville which corresponds to Officer Recommendation 4 Marrickville as he has property interests in Marrickville (which was later considered by Council as motion 10). He will leave the meeting during the discussion and voting on Item 1 regarding Marrickville.
Councillor Smith declared a pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing due to her principal residence and the principal residence of her associates being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, she made, prior to the meeting, Special Disclosures, in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such she will remain in the Meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.
Councillor Fergusson declared a pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing due to her principal residence and the principal residence of her associates being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, she made, prior to the meeting, Special Disclosures in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such she will remain in the Meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.
Councillor Howard declared a pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing due to his principal residence and the principal residence of his associate being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, he made, prior to the meeting, Special Disclosures in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such he will remain in the Meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.
Councillor Clay pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing due to her principal residence being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, she made, prior to the meeting, a Special Disclosure, in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such she will remain in the Meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.
Councillor Scott declared a pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing due to her principal residence and the principal residence of her associates being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, she made, prior to the meeting, Special Disclosures in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such she will remain in the Meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.
Councillor Carlisle declared a pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing due to her principal residence being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, she made, prior to the meeting, a Special Disclosure in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such she will remain in the Meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.
Councillor D’Arienzo declared a pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing due to her principal residence and the principal residence of her associate being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, she made, prior to the meeting, Special Disclosures in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such she will remain in the Meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.
The Mayor, Councillor Byrne, declared a pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing due to his principal residence and the principal residence of his associate being within the areas identified in Item 1. Due to the significant portion of the LGA that is impacted by the proposed reforms, he made, prior to the meeting, Special Disclosures in accordance with the Code of Conduct. This provides an exemption in this instance and as such he will remain in the Meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.
The Mayor, Councillor Byrne declared a significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing in respect of motions 3 Leichhardt and 5 Rozelle as he has a close personal relationship with persons with property interests in Leichhardt and Rozelle, which corresponds with Officer recommendations 3 Leichhardt and 5 Rozelle (which was later considered by Council as motions 9 and 11). He considers this a significant, non-pecuniary interest as it is a personal relationship that does not involve a pecuniary interest for him for the purposes of the Code of Conduct, but could give rise to a perception that he might be influenced by a private interest when considering this matter. Out of an abundance of caution and in the interest of full transparency, he will leave the meeting during the discussion and voting on Item 1 regarding Leichhardt and Rozelle.
The Director Community declared a significant, pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing due to her principal residence being within the area identified in item 1. She advised Council that he has not participated in the preparation of the report or discussions in relation to Item 1. She will leave the meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.
The General Manager declared a significant, pecuniary interest in Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing due to the principal residence of his associate being within the area identified in item 1. He advised Council that he has not participated in the preparation of the report or discussions in relation to Item 1. He will leave the meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.
Procedural Motion: (Scott/Fergusson)
That the ABC, Central News, Channel 9, Sydney Morning Herald and News.Com be given permission to take photographs and record footage during the Council meeting.
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan
Against Motion: Nil
PUBLIC FORUM
The Public Forum for this meeting was held on Monday 22 September 2025. The list of speakers are available at the end of the minutes prior to the tabled Special Disclosures.
Procedural Motion (Howard/Scott)
That Council allow the Mayor, Clr Byrne to speak for 2 additional minutes on the Byrne/D’Arienzo motion in Item 1.
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan
Against Motion: Nil
Procedural Motion (Byrne/Howard)
That Council allow Clr D’Arienzo to speak for 2 additional minutes on the Byrne/D’Arienzo motion in Item 1.
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan
Against Motion: Nil
Procedural Motion (Byrne/D’Arienzo)
That the meeting be adjourned for 5 minutes.
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan
Against Motion: Nil
The meeting was adjourned at 7:19 pm
The meeting recommenced at 7:24 pm
Procedural Motion (Howard/D’Arienzo)
That Council allow the Mayor, Clr Byrne to speak for 2 additional minutes on the right of reply on the Byrne/D’Arienzo motion in Item 1.
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan
Against Motion: Nil
Procedural Motion (D’Arienzo/Howard)
That Council allow the Mayor, Clr Byrne to speak for 2 additional minutes on the right of reply on the Byrne/D’Arienzo motion in Item 1.
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan
Against Motion: Nil
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C0925(2) Item 1 Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing in the Inner West |
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1. That Council endorse Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing in the Inner West, subject to the post-exhibition amendments detailed in this report and Attachments 1 – 3 and as amended, and submit it to NSW Government for implementation via a State-led fast track approval pathway for the following suburbs: a) Annandale, b) Ashbury, c) Ashfield, subject to the following amendments:
1. Defer the Iron Cove Sub-Precinct to be incorporated into the review of Croydon Housing Investigation Area.
2. Remove any proposed uplift and retain the existing Inner West Local Environmental Plan 2022 planning controls for the following areas: A. Parts of Western Spine Sub-Precinct along Milton Street, Blackwood Avenue, Park Lane and Arthur Street including:
B. Parts of Southern Village Sub-Precinct along Brunswick Parade, Arthur Street, and Shepherd Street including:
C. Retain the existing heritage conservation area (Federal Fyle) for 1 Ormond Street and 8A/ 8B -14 Bruce Street, Ashfield in the Ashfield East Sub-Precinct and remove any proposed uplift from these sites.
3. That Council undertake investigations for new housing opportunities as part of Phase 2 of Our Fairer Future Plan Council’s approach for new housing in the Inner West for the following areas: A. Ashfield – i. Areas identified as ‘Potential Future Opportunity Sites’ in the exhibited Masterplan including 20-28 Loftus Street, and 2-28 Thomas Street Ashfield – undertake further flooding studies for these areas. ii. Undertake further investigation of the heritage significance of the Federal Fyle Heritage Conservation Area at 8A to 14 Bruce Street and 1 Ormond Street, Ashfield, to consider sympathetic development and adaptive uplift in the Ashfield East Sub-Precinct iii. Consideration of the eastern side of Carlisle Street, Ashfield for potential uplift in the Southern Village sub-precinct. B. Summer Hill - 35 - 37 Prospect Road – review proposed planning controls to be in line with the remainder of the block between 19-33 Prospect Road, Summer Hill.
d) Balmain, e) Balmain East, f) Birchgrove, g) Camperdown, h) Croydon, i) Croydon Park, j) Dulwich Hill, subject to the following amendments:
1. Remove any proposed uplift and retain the existing Inner West Local Environmental Plan 2022 planning controls for the following area: A. Parts of Dulwich Hill North Sub-Precinct including:
2. That Council undertake investigations for new housing opportunities as part of Phase 2 of Our Fairer Future Plan Council’s approach for new housing in the Inner West for the following areas: A. Dulwich Hill – Loftus Street.
k) Enmore, l) Hurlstone Park, m) Lewisham, n) Lilyfield, o) Newtown, p) Petersham, q) Stanmore, r) Summer Hill, s) Sydenham, and t) Tempe.
2. That Council note the independent advice and modelling from Atlas Economics that requiring 10% affordable housing contribution on private land would require a scale of development of up to 40-storeys on main streets and approximately 20-storeys on residential streets, representing an unacceptable impact on the character and heritage of Inner West neighbourhoods.
3. That Council note the independent advice and modelling from Atlas Economics that requiring 30% contribution on private land would require even larger scale of development as well as public subsidies to private developers.
4. That Council note that Council has secured 220 new units of social housing, to be dedicated as rental homes for essential workers, through our partnership with NSW Government to redevelop the Westconnex dive site in Camperdown.
a) Adoption of the officers recommendation for a 2% affordable housing contribution, moving to 3% after 3 years, across all privately owned land in upzoned areas; b) Consideration of a 1% affordable housing contribution on all non-residential lands within the local government area, with the plan for phasing and introduction of this to be included in the studies for Stage 2 of the Our Fairer Future Plan; and c) Inclusion of a 20% affordable housing contribution for any additional proposed floor space beyond the baseline provision, in upzoned areas. This is to be based on the City of Sydney's policy and to be determined through Stage 2 investigations of the Fairer Future Plan. i. That Officers be requested to provide urgent advice to the elected Council on what steps Council needs to make to implement this change; and ii. That Officers be delegated to commission or engage additional advice or support up to a budget of $10,000 to be funded out of contingency.
6. That Council in addition, implement following affordable housing provisions, (noting that these actions have not been implemented in any Council in NSW): a) Progress with the potential conversion of 5 identified Council carparks to social housing, noting the estimated potential yield of social housing dwellings from these sites is 351 homes. The policy is to be premised on replacing all existing public parking spaces within the redeveloped site; b) Allowance for the conversion of lands owned by churches and faith based charities for residential development in return for 30% of the housing being social housing; and c) Seek a compact with the NSW Government to achieve our goal of 1000 new social housing dwellings over the next 10 years (noting that the aforementioned 220 units at the Camperdown WestConnex dive site have already been committed to).
7. That Council endorse the public domain and infrastructure works proposed in the Our Fairer Future Plan as indicative concepts only, with prioritisation of public benefits to be determined through the pending review of the Inner West Development Control Plan and the Inner West Developer Contributions Plan.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Macri, Raciti and Tastan
Amendment (Antoniou/Barlow)
That Council endorse Our Fairer Future Plan – with the following amendment: a) Where a residential development is proposed that is in excess of the zoning instrument and additional height or density is created, update the planning proposal to require 20% of the additional height or density to be captured as an affordable housing contribution.
The Mayor ruled this amendment out of order as it is substantially the same as the Byrne/D’Arienzo motion.
Amendment (Macri/Raciti)
That Council conduct a review into the probity of the process of developing and consulting on the Plan has been held. The probity review is to be conducted by a third part independent of repute such as a retired judge or Land and Environment Court Commissioner. Following the review a report to Council is required setting out: a) How the areas for uplift were identified; b) The tools of investigation and analysis used to determine if a site is in or out of consideration for uplift; and c) The role both officers of Council and Councillors played in bringing Our Fairer Future Plan to adoption.
Motion Lost For Motion: Crs Macri and Raciti Against Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Scott, Smith and Tastan
Procedural Motion (Byrne/D’Arienzo)
That the meeting be adjourned for 10 minutes.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan Against Motion: Nil
The meeting was adjourned at 8.33pm
The meeting recommenced at 8.47pm
Councillor Raciti left the Meeting at 8:47 pm as she declared a significant, pecuniary interest in Haberfield.
Motion: (Carlisle/D’Arienzo)
8. That Council endorse Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing in the Inner West, subject to the post-exhibition amendments detailed in this report and Attachment 1 – 3, and submit it to NSW Government for implementation via a State-led fast track approval pathway for: a) Haberfield
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Macri and Tastan Absent: Cr Raciti
Councillor Raciti returned to the Meeting at 8:48 pm.
The Mayor, Councillor Byrne left the Meeting at 8:49 pm and vacated the chair as he declared a significant, non-pecuniary interest as he has a close personal relationship with persons with property interests in Leichhardt. The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Chloe Smith assumed the chair.
Motion: (Scott/Carlisle)
9. That Council endorse Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing in the Inner West, subject to the post-exhibition amendments detailed in this report and Attachment 1 – 3 and as amended, and submit it to NSW Government for implementation via a State-led fast track approval pathway for: a) Leichhardt, subject to the following amendments:
1. Investigate the following actions as part of the preparation of Phase 2 of the Our Fairer Future Plan: A. Review Excelsior Heritage Conservation area (HCA) of the Inner West Local Environmental Plan (IWLEP) 2022, with the intent to: i. remove sections of the HCA along Norton Street and Renwick Street and consider appropriate uplift; and ii. expand the HCA to include Cary Street.
B. Review the Whaleyborough Estate Heritage Conservation Area of the IWLEP 2022, with the intent to remove sections of the HCA along Macauley Street and consider appropriate uplift.
2. In stage 2, undertake technical studies including flooding and heritage around the following sites to create new housing opportunities in the following precincts: A. Leichhardt Marketplace; B. Marion, Hawthorne and Leichhardt North Light Rail Stations; and C. Marion Street and Norton Street retail and commercial precincts.
3. Review the heritage significance of the former Leichhardt SRA Tram Shed, located at 25 Derbyshire Road, Leichhardt, with a view to delisting the sheds and identifying appropriate community use for the site.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake and Tastan Absent: Cr Byrne
Amendment: (Scott/Carlisle)
9. That Council endorse Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing in the Inner West, subject to the post-exhibition amendments detailed in this report and Attachment 1 – 3 and as amended, and submit it to NSW Government for implementation via a State-led fast track approval pathway for: a) Leichhardt, subject to the following amendments:
1. Investigate the following actions as part of the preparation of Phase 2 of the Our Fairer Future Plan: A. Review Excelsior Heritage Conservation area (HCA) of the Inner West Local Environmental Plan (IWLEP) 2022, with the intent to: i. remove sections of the HCA along Norton Street and Renwick Street and consider appropriate uplift ii. expand the HCA to include Cary Street.
B. Review the Whaleyborough Estate Heritage Conservation Area of the IWLEP 2022, with the intent to remove sections of the HCA along Macauley Street and consider appropriate uplift.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Raciti, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Macri and Tastan Absent: Cr Byrne
As the Amendment was carried, it was incorporated into the Primary Motion.
Amendment (Scott/Clay)
9. That Council endorse Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing in the Inner West, subject to the post-exhibition amendments detailed in this report and Attachment 1 – 3 and as amended, and submit it to NSW Government for implementation via a State-led fast track approval pathway for: a) Leichhardt, subject to the following amendments:
2. In stage 2, undertake technical studies including flooding and heritage around the following sites to create new housing opportunities in the following precincts: A. Leichhardt Marketplace B. Marion, Hawthorne and Leichhardt North Light Rail Stations C. Marion Street and Norton Street retail and commercial precincts.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake and Tastan Absent: Cr Byrne
As the Amendment was carried, it was incorporated into the Primary Motion.
Amendment (Scott/Clay)
9. That Council endorse Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing in the Inner West, subject to the post-exhibition amendments detailed in this report and Attachment 1 – 3 and as amended, and submit it to NSW Government for implementation via a State-led fast track approval pathway for: a) Leichhardt, subject to the following amendments:
3. Review the heritage significance of the former Leichhardt SRA Tram Shed, located at 25 Derbyshire Road, Leichhardt, with a view to delisting the sheds and identifying appropriate community use for the site.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Blake, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow and Tastan Absent: Cr Byrne
As the Amendment was carried, it was incorporated into the Primary Motion.
The Mayor, Councillor Byrne returned to the Meeting at 9:01 pm. The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Smith vacated the chair, and the Mayor, Councillor Byrne assumed the chair.
Councillor Macri left the Meeting at 9:01 pm as he declared a significant, pecuniary interest he has property interests in Marrickville.
Councillor Carlisle left the Meeting at 9:01 pm as she declared a significant, pecuniary interest in Marrickville.
Procedural Motion (Smith/Byrne)
That Council allow the Mayor, Clr Byrne to speak for 2 additional minutes on the Howard/Byrne motion in Item 1.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan Against Motion: Nil Absent: Crs Carlisle and Macri
Motion: (Howard/Byrne)
10. That Council endorse Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing in the Inner West, subject to the post-exhibition amendments detailed in this report and Attachments 1 – 3 and as amended below, submit it to NSW Government for implementation via a State-led fast track approval pathway for: a) Marrickville, subject to the following amendments:
1. Remove any proposed uplift from the following areas and retain the existing Inner West Local Environmental Plan 2022 planning controls for: A. Parts of Illawarra Road Marrickville Sub-Precinct along Harnett Avenue and South of Warren Road including: i. 2-42 Warren Road, Marrickville ii. 294A-B Livingstone Road, Marrickville iii. 6A-50 Harnett Avenue, Marrickville iv. 1-7A Roach Street, Marrickville v. 15-35 Harnett Avenue, Marrickville vi. 1-9 View Street, Marrickville vii. 1-7 Glen Street, Marrickville
B. Parts of Illawarra Road Marrickville Sub-Precinct - North of Cary Street and South of Renwick Street towards Illawarra Road including: i. 1-15 Cary Street, Marrickville ii. 2-16 Renwick Street, Marrickville iii. 481-465 Illawarra Road, Marrickville
C. Part of Illawarra Road Marrickville Sub-Precinct - South of Grove Street and South of Myrtle Street, along Harriet Street, North of Schwebel Street, West of High Street and East of Ivanhoe Street including: i. 1-41 Grove Street, Marrickville ii. 10-20 Ivanhoe Street, Marrickville iii. 1-21 Ivanhoe Street, Marrickville iv. 25 Ruby Street, Marrickville v. 29-49 High Street, Marrickville vi. 2-6 Riverdale Avenue, Marrickville vii. 11-31 Schwebel Street, Marrickville viii. 7-25 Carrington Street, Marrickville ix. 1-26 Harriet Street, Marrickville x. 2-26 Myrtle Street, Marrickville
D. Part of Marrickville Local Centre bound by Livingstone Road, Hastings Street, Enfield Street, Woodbury Street including: i. 135-153 Livingstone Road, Marrickville ii. 1-11 Enfield Street, Marrickville iii. 1-13 Hastings Street, Marrickville iv. 7-11 Anderton Street, Marrickville v. 6-40 Anderton Street, Marrickville vi. 5-19 Harrison Street, Marrickville vii. 12-46 Harrison Street, Marrickville viii. 9-31 Woodbury Street, Marrickville
E. Part of Marrickville Local Centre Sub-Precinct – South of Graham Avenue and Yabsley Avenue, and R3 block bound by Lilydale Street, Petersham Road and Stanley Street including: i. 1-21 Yabsley Avenue, Marrickville ii. 154-158 Livingstone Road, Marrickville iii. 2-20 Graham Avenue, Marrickville iv. 28-40 Lilydale Street, Marrickville v. 31 Lilydale Street, Marrickville vi. 2-14 Stanley Street, Marrickville
F. Not part of any Sub-Precinct. Block bound by Shaw Street, Addison Road, Oxford Street, Newington Road and Bright Street including: i. 1-21 Shaw Street, Petersham ii. 2-4 Oxford Street, Petersham iii. 2-28 Albert Street, Petersham iv. 15-19 Belgrave Street, Petersham v. 22-24 Belgrave Street, Petersham vi. 223-275 Addison Road, Petersham vii. 1-35 Albert Street, Petersham viii. 2-40 John Street, Petersham ix. 1-29 John Street, Petersham x. 1-36 William Street, Petersham xi. 2-32 Bright Street, Petersham xii. 142-146A Newington Road, Petersham
G. Part of Marrickville Local Centre Sub-Precinct – Key Site 6 - Blocks along Woodbury Street towards Marrickville Road and lots facing Marrickville Road including: i. 365-359 Marrickville Road & 2-6 Woodbury Street, Marrickville.
H. Part of Marrickville Local Centre Sub-Precinct – Lots on the southside facing Marrickville Rd between Livingstone Road and Anderton Street including: i. 394-410 Marrickville Road, Marrickville
2. Defer the following areas from Our Fairer Future Plan Phase 1 for further investigation in Phase 2 of Our Fairer Future Plan: A. Key Site 6 along Marrickville Road and Woodbury Street, Marrickville to enable better transitions, further community consultation and maximise opportunities for proposed open space. B. 394-410 Marrickville Road, Marrickville to enable better transitions to David Street Heritage Conservation Area and potential consideration of a new key site at 400 Marrickville Road, Marrickville for a potential community facility or open space
3. Revise the Design Guide which will inform the Inner West Development Control Plan (DCP) to support better transitions between the proposed high, medium and low-density areas in Marrickville. A. Consider mechanisms to incentivise the delivery of public parking by private developers in the Marrickville town centre as part of review of any planning agreements and public domain plans. B. Commence work on the Marrickville South Flood Study as soon as practicable, reporting to the Flood Management Advisory Committee before 31 December 2025 with a timeline and proposed program of work. C. Undertake heritage investigations for the below areas as part of Phase 2 of Our Fairer Future Plan - Council’s approach for new housing in the Inner West with the intention to: i. Review the heritage significance of 13 Beauchamp Street, Marrickville and whether it still warrants listing as a heritage item ii. Review potential heritage significance for listing Warren Estate as a new Heritage Conservation Area in the Inner West LEP 2022 for the streets which are identified to have high heritage value.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Byrne, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Raciti and Tastan Absent: Crs Carlisle and Macri
Councillor Byrne left the Meeting at 9:27 pm and vacated the chair as he declared a significant, non-pecuniary interest as he has a close personal relationship with persons with property interests in Rozelle. The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Chloe Smith assumed the chair.
Councillor Carlisle returned to the Meeting at 9:27 pm.
Councillor Macri returned to the Meeting at 9:27 pm.
Motion: (Scott/D’Arienzo)
11. That Council endorse Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing in the Inner West, subject to the post-exhibition amendments detailed in this report and Attachment 1 – 3, and submit it to NSW Government for implementation via a State-led fast track approval pathway for: a) Rozelle
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake and Tastan Absent: Cr Byrne
Councillor Carlisle left the Meeting at 9:28 pm as she declared a significant, pecuniary interest in St Peters.
The Mayor, Councillor Byrne returned to the Meeting at 9:28 pm. The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Smith vacated the chair, and the Mayor assumed the chair.
Motion: (Howard/D’Arienzo)
12. That Council endorse Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing in the Inner West, subject to the post-exhibition amendments detailed in this report and Attachment 1 – 3, and submit it to the NSW Government for implementation via a State-led fast track approval pathway for: a) St Peters
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Byrne, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake and Tastan Absent: Cr Carlisle
Councillor Carlisle returned to the Meeting at 9:29 pm.
Motion: (Byrne/D’Arienzo)
14. That Council immediately request the NSW Government to: a) Remove the application of the Transport Oriented Development (TOD) and the Low- and Mid-Rise Housing (LMRH) reforms from the Inner West Local Government Area; b) Replace these reforms with Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's approach for new housing in the Inner West (as amended post-exhibition); and c) Decline State Significant Development Applications using the TOD or LMRH controls until Our Fairer Future Plan has been implemented.
15. That the Croydon Housing Investigation Area Masterplan be reviewed following discussions with Burwood Council and brought back to Council for further consideration and re-exhibition.
16. That in order to support Our Fairer Future Plan the following policy work commence to be brought to Council for consideration prior to exhibition: a) A new Local Infrastructure Delivery Plan and update to the Inner West Contributions Plan to cater for the increased local infrastructure demands across the LGA; b) A harmonised Development Control Plan based on both feedback from development stakeholders and the Draft Design Guides; and c) The Inner West Affordable Housing Policy be reviewed as outlined in Attachment 1 Engagement Outcomes Report with the addition of a definition of affordable housing as per the Housing SEPP as housing for very low, low and moderate income households, with tenants not to pay more than 30% of their gross household income in rent, and consideration be given to: i. Investigate the redevelopment of Council Service Centres – development scope to include investigation of 100% residential units to be made available for social and essential worker housing while being retained in council’s ownership.
17. That Council write to the NSW Government state agencies and public authorities to seek commitment for state infrastructure delivery, for schools, public transport, regional open space, health infrastructure and utilities, to be aligned with the timing and scale of housing development, and that Inner West community wellbeing, equity, and sustainability are prioritised.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith Against Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake and Tastan
Councillor Raciti left the Meeting at 9:33 pm.
Amendment (Atkins/Antoniou)
Insert a new point 14 as follows and renumber accordingly:
14. That Council enshrine the dwelling mix table outlined in the draft plan within the LEP rather than the DCP.
Motion Lost For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake and Tastan Against Motion: Crs Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Scott and Smith Absent Cr Raciti
Councillor Raciti returned to the Meeting at 9:35 pm.
Amendment (Atkins/Barlow)
Amendment to point 16:
16. That in order to support Our Fairer Future Plan the following policy work commence to be brought to Council for consideration prior to exhibition: a) A new Local Infrastructure Delivery Plan that prioritises Early Childhood Education and Care facilities in suburbs of identified need and update to the Inner West Contributions Plan to cater for the increased local infrastructure demands across the LGA.
Motion Lost For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake and Tastan Against Motion: Crs Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith
Amendment (Atkins/Barlow)
Amendment to point 16:
16. That in order to support Our Fairer Future Plan the following policy work commence to be brought to Council for consideration prior to exhibition: b) A harmonised Development Control Plan based on both feedback from development stakeholders and the Draft Design Guides; that includes i. investigation of Liveable Housing Design Guidelines with respect to setting an appropriate requirement for Silver and Platinum Standards. ii. investigation of a clause requiring green roofs on new buildings over 8 storeys.
Motion Lost For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake and Tastan Against Motion: Crs Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith
Councillor Barlow left the Meeting at 9:43 pm.
Councillor Barlow returned to the Meeting at 9:45 pm.
Amendment (Macri/Raciti)
Amendment to point 16:
16. That in order to support Our Fairer Future Plan the following policy work commence to be brought to Council for consideration prior to exhibition: a) A new Local Infrastructure Delivery Plan and update to the Inner West Contributions Plan to cater for the increased local infrastructure demands across the LGA; b) A harmonised Development Control Plan based on both feedback from development stakeholders and the Draft Design Guides; That includes a requirement for Minimum Car Spaces at the following ratio
c) The Inner West Affordable Housing Policy be reviewed as outlined in Attachment 1 Engagement Outcomes Report.
Motion Lost For Motion: Crs Macri and Raciti Against Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Scott, Smith and Tastan
Amendment (Blake/Barlow)
That Council replace point 17 with:
17. That Council advocate to: a) The Department of Planning, Housing and Industry for a reduction in the day cap for non hosted Short Term Rental Accommodation from 180 to 90 days; b) The NSW Government to establish a partnership, jointly financed by Inner West Council and the NSW State Government to facilitate the purchase and development of Council owned affordable housing properties; c) The NSW Government public land identified in the NSW Public Land Audit that is deemed unsuitable for housing be given to local councils as opportunities to create green space; d) The NSW Government to urgently build additional crisis accommodation and emergency housing in the Inner West; e) the Federal Government to remove the capital gains tax exemption for investment properties and to cap negative gearing to one investment property; and f) all tiers of Government seeking a commitment for 100% public housing on public land and advocate against the privatisation of public land.
Motion Lost For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake and Tastan Against Motion: Crs Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott and Smith |
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C0925(2) Item 4 Advice - Post Exhibition - Our Fairer Future Plan - Council's Approach for New Housing in the Inner West |
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That Council receive and note the report.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan Against Motion: Nil |
Meeting closed at 10:11 pm.
PUBLIC SPEAKERS FROM THE PUBLIC FORUM HELD ON 22 SEPTEMBER 2025:
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Item #
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Speaker |
Suburb |
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Item 1: |
Kitty Farrell Tim Bradshaw Giovanni Cirillo Leilana Levy Bailey Riley Justin Simon Emily Lockwood Andrew Leach Tom Schinckel Michael Clayden Harrison Chudleigh Stuart Gibson Kristine Gibson Michael Lindsay Catherine Duff Aks Walia Daniel Holland Lucy Langford Evan Mistilis Julia Richardson Bruce Scott Ann King Andrew Harvey Edward Dann Emma Norton Leah Horsley Corey Struve Margaret Roberts Eugenie Wilson John Adamiec Dan Conway Cheryl Pomering Rachel Evans Timothy Flett Benjamin Cullen Andrea Leong Heather R Davie Garry Chapman Kon Vourtzoumis Steve Salmon Bryce Carr Rob Beckett John Stamolis Cassidy Newman Greg Cheetham Mark Skelsey Marie-Louise (Doodie) Herman Dominic Behrens Morris Hanna Joan Westenberg Adam Trevorrow Carolyn Smith Andrew Mara Carmel Baker Anastasia Bennett Julian Frundt James Manche Barbara McKellar Sunny Wu Louise Appel Mick O'Flynn Hayley Spring David Pink Adam Connor Rory Frame Caroline Buckingham Mat Wilk Harris Valo Hall Greenland Jason Duda |
Dulwich Hill Dulwich Hill Marrickville Marrickville Marrickville Summer Hill Summer Hill Marrickville Edgecliff St Ives Enmore Newtown Balmain Marrickville Marrickville Erskineville Petersham Marrickville Ashfield Marrickville Leichhardt Lilyfield Dulwich Hill Enmore Earlwood Marrickville Rozelle Leichhardt Ashfield Ashfield Marrickville Petersham Marrickville North Willoughby Stanmore Marrickville Marrickville Ultimo Earlwood Marrickville Newtown Marrickville Balmain Rozelle Marrickville Dulwich Hill Leichhardt Rushcutters Bay Marrickville Summer Hill Panania Marrickville Marrickville Lewisham Leichhardt Petersham Dulwich Hill Dulwich Hill Ashfield Lilyfield Marrickville Dulwich Hill Newtown Leichhardt Marrickville Dulwich Hill Rozelle Marrickville Leichhardt Marrickville |
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Item 2: |
Ian Dawson |
Marrickville |
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Item 3: |
Margo Cashman |
Dulwich Hill |



















































































































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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Update on Inner West e-Bike Strategy and Policy and shared e-bike parking bays
Council at its meeting on 23 September 2025 resolved that the matter be deferred to the meeting to be held on 28 October 2025.
Prepared By: Manod Wickramasinghe - Traffic and Transport Planning Manager
Authorised By: Peter Shields - Director Engineering
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RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council write to the Federal Government encouraging support for the Road Vehicle Standards Amendment (Safer EBikes) Bill 2025, tabled in Federal Parliament on 1 September, which aims to address the import of and access to high powered electric bikes in Australia.
2. That Council continue to work with Shared bike operations on creation of e-micro-mobility hubs for the parking of e-bikes and other e-micro-mobility device.
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
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2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport |
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In March 2025 Council resolved to prepare an Inner West e-Bike Strategy and Policy and conduct a shared e-bike provider roundtable. This report provides an update on this work.
The Inner West e-Bike Strategy needs to capture the wide range of issues around shared e-bikes and privately owned or rented e-bikes including those used by workers making food and grocery deliveries. Currently work is underway by both the State and Federal Governments, as well as work by Council staff on a draft Inner West E-bike Strategy & Policy. The State Government is working with councils throughout NSW to develop new regulations for shared e-bikes, while the Federal Government will soon consider a Bill that aims to address the range of non-compliant e-bikes currently imported into Australia. Such work is considered essential. Consequently, it is recommended that Council write to the Federal Government encouraging support for the Bill.
Several shared e-bike operators attended the Shifting Gears (mode shift) forum hosted by Council in May 2025 and staff continue to meet fortnightly with operators functioning in the Inner West. Once the State Government regulations for shared bikes are publicly released, a roundtable will be convened to discuss relevant management issues as outlined in the March resolution. This will include discussion on opportunities to provide e-micro-mobility hubs for the storage of e-bikes and other e-micro-mobility devices more broadly noting that work is progressing to identify initial locations to trial.
While the Inner West Cycling Strategy, endorsed by Council in 2023, includes priorities and actions that capture a range of cycling devices used in the Inner West, it is proposed that a future review and update of the Strategy could also respond to the Council resolution for a shared e-bike Strategy, by specifically including shared e-bikes in the Cycling Strategy.
BACKGROUND
Electric bikes, including shared electric bikes, provide a healthy affordable transport option and have become an increasingly popular transport choice for people throughout the Sydney metropolitan area. Electric bikes also form the backbone of the bicycle delivery service offered by businesses throughout the Inner West. Simultaneously, there is recognition at all levels of government about the need to manage the impacts of shared e-bikes and the increased use of non-compliant high-powered e-bikes.
In February 2025, the NSW Legislative Council released a report, Use of e-scooters, e-bikes and related mobility options, considering a wide range of factors related to e-mobility devices. The report acknowledges that the popularity of e-bikes and other electric mobility devices is moving fast, and makes 34 recommendations to address the wide range of issues identified.
NSW Government agencies have commenced work on many of the report’s recommendations and Inner West Council is working with Transport for NSW to support initiatives around shared bikes. The Federal Government is responsible for the importation of electric bikes and, in July 2025 peak bodies for cycling and bicycle industries wrote to the Federal Government asking for better control of e-bike imports to address safety for riders and pedestrians, as well as fires resulting from sub-standard bikes and batteries.
At the Council meeting held on 19 August 2025, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council conduct an audit of existing ‘No Stopping’ zones across the Inner West Local Government Area to identify and compile a list of locations that could be trialled as shared e-bike parking bays.
2. That Council prioritise locations that:
a) Are in high traffic areas;
b) Are situated on popular cycling and pedestrian routes; and
c) Are near sites where shared bikes are frequently parked and/or problematic.
3. That Council provide a report to Council at the September 2025 meeting, outlining:
a) A list of ‘No Stopping’ zones deemed suitable for conversion; and
b) Estimated costs and potential funding options for implementing the conversions.
4. That Council provide an additional report to Council at the September 2025 meeting outlining progress on Motion C0325(1) Item 29 from the March 2025 meeting, including proposed delivery dates for the following:
a) The shared bike roundtable with key local providers; and
b) The development of the e-Bike Strategy and e-Bike Policy.
DISCUSSION
Use of ‘No Stopping’ zones for parking of shared e-bikes
Council Staff have held discussions with the City of Sydney and Transport for NSW regarding opportunities to convert ‘No Stopping’ zones to parking for shared e-bikes.
These discussions indicate that while ‘No Stopping’ zones are primarily instituted where it is critical to maintain safety or traffic flow and opportunities may existing to reduce the length of some zones to permit the provision of other kerbside uses.
Choice of specific locations that could successfully be converted to shared e-bike parking is dependent on several factors, including:
· The ability to maintain suitable sight distance between all road users including pedestrians
· The ability to maintain sufficient manoeuvring space for vehicles including emergency service and waste collection vehicles.
· The ability to safely park and access the e-bikes;
· Demand for e-bikes;
· Willingness of operators to provide and service the specific location;
· Safety of servicing and maintenance for operators;
· The ability to geo-fence the location.
It is also considered essential that consideration of locations not be limited to shared e-bikes, rather it should look at overall e-micro-mobility, including devices such as e-scooters (should they be legalised by upcoming legislation).
The most appropriate locations for share e-micro-mobility parking (hubs) will be dependent on the State Government’s legislation which will prescribe where and how, these vehicles can be used.
In order to ensure efficient placement and integration of e-micro-mobility hubs, it will be essential to consult with providers and to work within the constraints contained in the impending legislative changes.
Council will be engaging with share bike operators on identifying initial locations to trial for e-micro-mobility hubs. Identified locations will be considered and approved through the Local Transport Forum.
Opportunities to provide e-micro-mobility hubs more broadly, will be included in the proposed roundtable, once the new legislation is released. It is also suggested that consideration of e-micro-mobility hubs should be included in Council’s future e-Bike Strategy and Policy.
E-bike Strategy and Policy
An e-Bike Strategy and Policy will need to capture the wide range of issues around and some of the points discussed below.
Shared e-bikes
Councils have no direct power over the provision, regulation or management of shared bikes and there is acknowledgement, by the NSW Government, of the need to better manage their impacts on the community and public spaces.
The Parliamentary Committee report released in February this year, recommends the NSW Government manage shared schemes in consultation with local councils to prioritise safety measures, device maintenance and service reliability. Council staff support the provision of a State-led scheme to eliminate duplication across councils and provide a better service for people using the bikes.
Transport for NSW has been working with councils and shared bike providers to address the issues raised by shared bikes and, in the coming months new regulations are expected to reform how these schemes operate in NSW. It is understood the new regulations will allow councils to respond more effectively to local conditions instead of the state-led approach as recommended by the Parliamentary Committee report. Staff in Council’s Strategic Transport Planning Team are working with Transport for NSW to provide input about the needs of the Inner West. Inner West Council is participating in a software trial procured by Transport for NSW which gives statistical insights about trips made by people using shared bikes.
In addition, staff meet fortnightly with bike companies operating in the Inner West to identify and address problems proactively and also participate in a working group with other councils to share lessons and opportunities.
Once the proposed regulations for shared bikes are released, a roundtable with operators will be convened to consider the differing hardware and software used as well as coverage of operations, establishing designated parking zones and improvements in maintenance, cleanliness and helmet provision.
Non-compliant high-powered e-bikes
State Governments are responsible for regulating the use of e-bikes while the importation is controlled by the Federal Government. In 2021 changes made to the regulations for importing electric bikes caused an increased in the range of e-bikes available in Australia, resulting in confusion and complexity for regulation and enforcement by State Governments.
The Road Vehicle Standards Amendment (Safer EBikes) Bill 2025 tabled in the Federal Parliament on 1 September 2025 aims to reverse these changes. The Bill is about making sure bikes imported into Australia are safe for use and reducing access to poor-quality equipment causing an increase in battery fires. It is recommended Council write to the Federal Government encouraging support for the Bill.
Additionally, the NSW Parliamentary Committee report released in February 2025 recognises that inconsistencies in legislation across different levels of government are creating challenges for both users and enforcement authorities. In its response to the inquiry, the NSW Government has acknowledged that effective regulation and policy settings are essential and, work is underway to review the NSW Road Rules and consider all safety, rider and community implications of the reforms underway.
Legalisation of e-scooters
Currently e-scooters are not permitted to be used in public places and Transport for NSW is progressing proposed regulatory reforms to legalise their use, for both shared schemes and privately owners. E-scooter trails are currently underway in locations around NSW to inform this work.
Following engagement with stakeholders commencing in 2019, including Inner West Council staff, in 2024 the NSW Government published draft settings for e-scooter use. These settings included proposals for helmets, speed restrictions and specified locations. Feedback received through this engagement, as well as submissions made to the Parliamentary Inquiry, will be considered as when making future decisions related to e-scooter regulations.
Battery fires
Lithium-ion batteries are a safety risk due to fires. Such batteries are used in a variety of consumer items and are regulated by the State and Federal governments. Work is currently underway to minimise the risk of fires associated with batteries used for micro-mobility devices.
Work has commenced to implement recommendations made by the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) in 2023 about the sale, testing and disposal of lithium-ion batteries. In NSW the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) is working on reforms to improve the design, packaging, import, storage and disposal of all batteries, while Fair Trading NSW recently introduced a requirement for compliance with prescribed mandatory safety standards before for lithium-ion e-micromobility devices can be sold in NSW.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Annual Financial Statements for the Financial Year 2024/25
Prepared By: Chris Sleiman - Chief Financial Officer
Authorised By: Sharon Bowman - Director Corporate
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RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council authorise the Mayor and Deputy Mayor to sign the Statement by Councillors and Management contained within the General Purpose Financial Statements.
2. That Council endorse the Financial Statements for the year ended 30 June 2025 to be placed on public exhibition no later than 31 October 2025 for a period of 7 days.
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
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5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The purpose of this report is to put forward the Council’s Annual Financial Statements for endorsement, including:
· General Purpose Financial Statements for the year ended 30 June 2025
· Special Schedules:
o Permissible income for general rates for the financial year 2025/26
o Report on Infrastructure assets as at 30 June 2025 (unaudited)
Once the Statement by Councillors and management has been signed, Council will receive the Audit Report and Report on the Conduct of the Audit for the year ended 30 June 2025 from the Audit Office of New South Wales. These will be inserted into the relevant section of the Notes to the financial statements, prior to their publication on Council’s Your Say website https://yoursay.innerwest.nsw.gov.au/ no later than 31 October 2025, to allow for interested parties to make submissions.
BACKGROUND
In accordance with sections 413-417 of the Local Government Act 1993, Inner West Council is required to prepare financial reports for each year, and have them audited within four months of the end of each financial year.
DISCUSSION
Publication of Financial Reports and call for submissions
Council’s financial reports for 2024/25 have been prepared by staff in accordance with the requirements of the Local Government Act, the Local Government Code of Accounting Practice, and relevant Accounting Standards. Draft financial statements were presented to ARIC on 27 August 2025, prior to commencement of the audit by the Audit Office of New South Wales on 8 September.
The (confidential) Engagement Closing Report on the Audit was received on 9 October 2025, in which the Audit Office provided an unqualified opinion on the financial reports.
An Extraordinary meeting of Council’s Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee (ARIC) was held on 13 October 2025 to consider the draft Financial Statements. The ARIC received a briefing from the Audit Office of NSW and Council officers to discuss the conduct of the audit and Council’s financial position. ARIC resolved to endorse the Annual Financial Statements, and to extend congratulations to the officers on the financial results and the conduct of the audit.
The financial reports include a Statement by Councillors and Management as to Council’s opinion on the general purpose financial report. The auditors require this statement to be signed before the Auditor’s reports on the general purpose financial report and on the conduct of the audit are released. These will be inserted into the relevant section of the Notes to the financial statements when received following endorsement by Council.
The financial reports and auditor’s reports will then be published on Council’s Your Say website https://yoursay.innerwest.nsw.gov.au/ no later than 31 October 2025. In accordance with section 420 of the Local Government Act, any person may make submissions to council with respect to the audited financial reports or the auditors reports. Submissions must be in writing, and lodged within 7 days of publication. Any submissions received must be referred by Council to the Auditor for their response.
The final audited financial statements will be included in Council’s Annual Report, which will be presented at the November 2025 meeting of Council.
Income Statement
Council’s operating result for the year before capital grants and contributions was a deficit of $4.6 million against a budgeted deficit of $1.7 million, as set out in the table on the following page.
The variance from budget was primarily due to the following:
1. Loss from disposal of assets greater than budget of $5.0 million, relating to the partial write-off of assets following the completion of renewal projects
2. Depreciation expenses of $4.7 million, mostly due to depreciating a higher base-value of assets following revaluations.
3. Timing difference in the receipt of the Federal Government Financial Assistance Grant, where Council received 35% less of the Grant in advance than budgeted, equating to $2.3 million.
4. Offset by an increase in the fair value of Council’s Liverpool and Warrawong investment properties of $7.7 million.
The disposal of asset and fair value adjustment variances are non-cash adjustments and have no impact on Council’s reserves, while the depreciation expense variance allows Council to increase the Depreciation Reserve set aside to complete renewal works on Council’s assets.

Statement of Financial Position
Council’s Statement of Financial Position (balance sheet) shows net assets of $3.2 billion ($58m higher than last year).
Council’s primary asset is infrastructure, property, plant and equipment (IPPE) of $3.0 billion. As there were no asset condition assessments completed during the year, there was no revaluation of these assets, with the exception of Crown Lands which were revalued based on Land Valuations provided by the Valuer General. Asset condition assessments will continue with the new program of works in the 2025/26 Financial Year.
Council is required to complete the fair valuation of its investment properties each year. As a result:
· Council’s Liverpool investment property fair value increased by $5.0 million (an increase in value of $0.2 million from the original purchase price, having previously been valued lower than purchase price).
· Council’s Warrawong investment property fair value increased by $2.7 million (its first revaluation, having been purchased in July 2023).
These properties are long term investments for Council, assisting Council to achieve surpluses for future years. The investments have long term leases in place, and are achieving favourable yields as compared to the market.
Council holds $234m in cash and investments. Note C1-3 to the financial statements (and the following table) sets out the restrictions and allocations associated with these funds, broken down into the relevant internally and externally restricted reserves. Reserves are funds that are restricted or allocated for use for a particular purpose, with the balance of funds ($5m) being unrestricted.

Statement of Performance Measures
The Statement of Performance Measures in Note G1 replaces the Local Government Indicators which previously were prescribed by the Accounting Code and formed part of the audited financial statements.
As of the 2024/25 financial year, these measures are not audited. However, council has elected to include as an additional disclosure as they allow for inter-council comparisons to be made consistently across the local government sector. The indicators are as follows:
Operating Performance Ratio
The purpose of the Operating Performance Ratio is to measure Council’s achievement of covering operating expenses with operating revenue.
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The ratio is slightly lower that prior financial years due to the slightly higher than expected expenditure, but remains close to the OLG benchmark.
Own Source Operating Revenue Ratio
The purpose of this ratio is to measure fiscal flexibility. The ratio highlights the degree of reliance on external funding sources such as operating grants and contributions.
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The ratio has reduced compared to previous year but maintains a stable position above the OLG benchmark.
Unrestricted Current Ratio
The purpose of this ratio is to assess the adequacy of working capital and its ability to satisfy obligations in the short term for the unrestricted activities of Council.
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After considering both internal and external restrictions, Council still has the capacity to fulfil its
obligations. The unrestricted current ratio consistently remains higher than the benchmark.
Debt Service Coverage Ratio
This ratio measures the availability of operating cash to service debt including interest, principal repayments, and lease payments.
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The ratio remains significantly above the benchmark and demonstrates Council's ability to service its debts.
Rates, Annual Charges, Interest and Extra Charges Outstanding Percentage
The ratio helps assess the impact of uncollected rates and annual charges on Council’s liquidity and the adequacy of recovery efforts.
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The ratio increased slightly from the prior year and is above the OLG benchmark. This is despite Council’s active debt recovery activity since April 2023. Rate payers continue to experience pressures in their ability to pay rates due to cost of living increases. To combat this, Bill Smoothing options have been introduced for rate payments for the 2025-26 financial year. Flexible options to assist ratepayers with overdue balances to get on top of their debts are also being introduced.
Cash Expense Cover Ratio
This liquidity ratio indicates the number of months a Council can continue paying for its immediate expenses without additional cash flow.
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The ratio remains comfortably higher than the OLG benchmark.
Infrastructure Asset Performance Indicators
Council’s Infrastructure asset performance indicators (found in Special Schedules – Report on Infrastructure Assets) are a summary of Council’s infrastructure conditions for the financial year. Note that this Special Schedule is not audited by the Audit Office. These indicators are reviewed on an ongoing basis as part of the Long-Term Financial Plan and Asset Management Plan process.
Following the completion of a detailed condition audit and revaluation of all Council assets since amalgamation, there were no condition assessments or revaluations completed this financial year. The total infrastructure backlog decreased from $29.3m in 2023/24 to $26.9 million in 2024/25, equating to a backlog ratio of 1.35%, less than the Office of Local Government Benchmark.
A summary of the indicators is presented below. Council performed better than the benchmark for each of the three ratios.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
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1.⇩ |
General Purpose Financial Statements for the year ended 30 June 2025 |
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2.⇩ |
Special Schedules - Permissible income for general rates and Report on Infrastructure assets |
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Public Exhibition - Draft Parking Strategy & Public Domain Parking Policy
Prepared By: Manod Wickramasinghe - Traffic and Transport Planning Manager and Kendall Banfield - Senior Strategic Transport Planner
Authorised By: Peter Shields - Director Engineering
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RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council publicly exhibit the draft Parking Strategy and draft revised Public Domain Parking Policy (Attachment 1 and 2) for a period of 28 days and seek community feedback on the proposed Strategy and Policy.
2. That following the conclusion of the exhibition period, the draft Parking Strategy and draft revised Public Domain Parking Policy be brought back to Council for consideration for adoption.
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
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2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport |
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In recognition of the complex issues associated with the provision and management of parking, both in the private and public domains, Council officers have developed a draft Parking Strategy and have revised the 2020 Public Domain Parking Policy.
The Strategy provides high-level guidance to inform the parking section of the new Development Control Plan (DCP), Public Domain Parking Policy and other current and future policies such as the Our Fairer Future Plan. The Policy also provides detail to guide the management of kerbside parking via permit parking schemes.
The Strategy’s vision is: “In the Inner West, all types of parking are managed holistically to maximise short and long-term benefits for the community, including affordability, equity of access, liveability and sustainability.” The vision is supported by 10 objectives and 27 actions.
It is recommended the draft Parking Strategy (at Attachment 1) and the draft revised Public Domain Parking Policy (at Attachment 2) be exhibited for public comment.
BACKGROUND
Council’s 2020 Integrated Transport Strategy - GOING PLACES recognised the many complex issues associated with parking in both the private and public domains. In response to these issues GOING PLACES identified the need for a parking strategy. Separately, in response to the need to harmonise on-street parking controls, in 2020 Council adopted a Public Domain Parking Policy for the former Marrickville and Ashfield LGAs.
It was subsequently decided that a more strategic approach to parking management was also necessary, and a Parking Strategy should be developed concurrently with a review of the 2020 Public Domain Parking Policy.
The 10 objectives of the draft Parking Strategy were developed at meetings of a parking policy working group comprising staff from the Strategic Planning, Traffic & Transport Planning and Enforcement sections of Council. Draft versions of the Strategy have been discussed at Council’s Transport Local Democracy Group.
That Item 17 be deferred until a meeting following adoption of the amended Inner West Local Environment Plan, and with the following additions: a) Stronger action on businesses utilising parking on residential streets; and b) Consideration of offering line marking to demarcate driveways as a Council service available at a fee, in addition to residents being able to paint driveway lines at no-cost.
Accordingly, this report is being resubmitted after Council’s consideration of the Our Fairer Future Plan on 30 September 2025, and the requested amendments have been incorporated into the draft revised Public Domain Parking Policy, at Attachment 2.
The following paragraph (shown italicised below) has been added to Section 7.2.1 (p.10) of the draft policy (Attachment 2) to address the first requested amendment:
Council encourages equitable access to high-demand parking spaces. Where inequity occurs — for example, when businesses monopolise these areas — Council may take action through a range of measures, including (but not limited to) enforcing consent conditions or introducing permissive parking schemes to ensure turnover can be better managed and enforced.
Accordingly, Council discourages businesses from excessive use of kerbside parking space for the operation of the business – for example smash repairers storing vehicles at the kerb that are awaiting repair, or other businesses that use vehicles as part of their operations. Council may take enforcement action where businesses are in breach of their development consent conditions or other applicable regulations. Where such businesses create excessive parking demand in residential areas, Council may consider implementing a permit parking scheme, subject to standard investigation and development procedures.
The additional phrase (shown italicised below) has been added to Section 7.6 (p.14) of the draft policy (Attachment 2) to address the second requested amendment:
To mitigate ongoing non-compliance with the Road Rules, Council will permit the painting of lines on the road shoulder / parking lane to Council’s specification at no cost. Council will also offer line painting as a service, available for a fee. This is to better delineate the extremities of driveways. Installation and maintenance will be the responsibility of the property owner/occupier. The lines will not necessarily be used to validate a driveway obstruction offence. In administering offences, Council will consider particular/historical parking arrangements.
DISCUSSION
2020 Integrated Transport Strategy
Council’s 2020 Integrated Transport Strategy - GOING PLACES identified the complexity of issues associated with both public and private domain parking in the Inner West. Key initiatives proposed in GOING PLACES included:
· Review parking requirements in areas within close proximity to high frequency public transport
· Development of maximum parking provisions in areas within close proximity to public transport and centres, for inclusion in the new DCP
· Ensure that minimum bicycle parking requirements are in new DCP
· Ensure destinations, such as schools and community facilities have adequate accessible parking, located in appropriate places
· Provide an adaptive and responsive parking provision scheme that considers land use, location of development and access to alternative transport. This will include providing appropriate parking rates for different developments depending on proximity to high frequency public transport services
· Adopt a minimum car park rate of zero for new developments within close proximity of high-quality public transport services, together with adequate visitor parking on site and a street-parking permit regime that considers function demand, location and access to alternative transport
· Investigate opportunities to encourage and provide de-coupled and detached parking to support new developments
· Restrict parking permits in new developments that are within close proximity to public transport and services
· Reduce incentives for car ownership by constraining parking in both the public and private domains.
Draft Parking Strategy
The draft Parking Strategy is based on local, national and international good practice parking policy and management, tailored to fit the Inner West’s needs through research and internal (staff) consultation.
The Strategy’s 10 objectives are:
1. Draw on good practice and link to other relevant policies
2. Involve the community and all stakeholders
3. Advocate for State and National level policy improvements
4. Reduce the need for car ownership and constrain parking
5. Prioritise areas of high parking demand
6. Mandate constrained maximum parking rates for new developments in accessible areas and encourage flexible provision
7. Design, manage and repurpose public domain parking for maximum benefit
8. Use technology, data, pricing and wayfinding to improve parking management
9. Prioritise parking for targeted users to improve equity and efficiency of access
10. Continue to enforce parking rules efficiently, diligently and fairly.
To achieve these objectives, 27 actions are recommended, divided into three categories: immediate, medium-term and on-going / long-term.
Immediate actions are:
1. Develop land use plans to facilitate dense, mixed-use development oriented to major commercial centres, public transport nodes and Our Fairer Future Plan uplift areas
2. Prioritise major commercial centres, public transport nodes, Our Fairer Future Plan uplift areas, major events and other places of high parking demand for improved parking management
3. Prioritise Our Fairer Future Plan uplift areas for implementation and improvement of permit parking schemes, to occur as redevelopment proceeds
4. Mandate constrained maximum parking rates for new developments in accessible areas and Our Fairer Future Plan uplift areas to facilitate affordable housing and allow flexible provision
5. Encourage shared and flexible parking arrangements in new developments to improve the efficiency of use of parking space and allow flexible provision
6. Improve permit parking schemes to ensure permit availability relates to available parking space, permits are appropriately priced, schemes operate consistently across the Council area and the parking needs of all users are considered and balanced
7. In areas where parking is already priced, improve demand-related timing and pricing systems for parking at the kerb and in council car parks, to optimise turnover and generate funds for transport and streetscape improvements
8. Improve the operation of mobility parking schemes to ensure mobility parking is available for genuine users
9. Mandate and encourage provision of electric vehicle ready infrastructure in new developments and continue to install electric vehicle charging facilities at the kerb and in council car parks
10. Incorporate what is considered locally and internationally to be proven good practice parking policy and management when developing and implementing this strategy
11. Consider relevant Inner West Council and NSW Government policies when developing and implementing this strategy.
Medium-term actions are:
12. Constrain public domain parking space and ensure it is well designed so that safety, traffic, amenity and environmental impacts are minimised
13. Subject to a parking study, repurpose some public domain parking space to create space for other uses such as pedestrian, bike and bus priority, landscaping, outdoor dining and affordable housing
14. Adopt contemporary technology for efficient management and enforcement of parking, and to generate data that can be used for monitoring and continuous improvement
15. Develop and disseminate physical and digital information to drivers about locations, availability, restrictions and pricing of parking
16. Price permit parking schemes to discourage multiple vehicle ownership, discourage excessively large vehicles and generate funds for transport and streetscape improvements
17. Map and monitor areas of high demand, including temporary ‘hot spots’, to assist with a proactive approach to parking management and a timely response to issues
18. Develop policies and manage parking holistically across the private and public domains in recognition of interactions between these two areas
19. Use technology, pricing and other actions identified in this strategy to improve parking management so there is a reduction in breaches of parking rules and fines
20. Ensure other relevant Inner West Council policies consider this strategy as part of their development and implementation.
On-going / long-term actions are:
21. Advocate to the NSW and Australian Governments the need for strong, supportive parking policies and actions based on local and international best practice
22. Continue to oppose expanded road capacity, including new motorways, and encourage sustainable transport - to reduce private car ownership and use
23. Generally, constrain parking provision in new developments, at the kerb and in council car parks
24. Mandate and/or encourage, in both the private and public domains, priority parking space for the targeted users identified in this strategy
25. Implement actions in this strategy to facilitate enforcement that is proactive as well as reactive
26. Continue to improve this strategy, based on feedback on parking issues and solutions from the community and all stakeholders
27. Raise awareness of this Strategy through meetings, workshops, the media and other information outlets, with a view to fostering a broad dialogue and consensus on good practice.
Whilst the draft Parking Strategy discusses the role of pricing in general terms, it is acknowledged that Council has recently resolved not to expand the extent of its parking meters at this time, and this has been incorporated in the Public Domain Parking Policy.
Draft revised Public Domain Parking Policy
At the Council meeting held on 9 June 2020 meeting, Council considered a draft Public Domain Parking Policy. It proposed to harmonise all policies related to permit parking schemes of the former councils. It brought them into a single policy that would apply across Inner West Council area. Whilst it was recommended that all prior policies be rescinded and replaced by the new policy, Council resolved to retain the existing rules and fees for the former Leichhardt Council area and apply the new policy only to the former Marrickville and Ashfield Council areas.
As the 2020 Public Domain Parking Policy is now due for review, the opportunity has been taken to update this policy, progress the harmonisation process and generally improve the effectiveness of permit parking schemes across the Council area. Attachment 2 is the proposed draft version of this revised policy. A summary of the main changes proposed is provided below.
The main general changes proposed to the 2020 Public Domain Parking Policy are:
· Enhancing clarity and readability
· Clarifying wording around specific issues that have previously been ambiguous
· Changing some policy rules to progress the harmonisation of existing schemes toward a single scheme
· Ensuring consistency with relevant NSW Government guidelines – in particular, the 2024 TfNSW Permit Parking Guidelines
· Ensuring references to names of NSW Government agencies and guidelines are up to date
· Changing selected rules to improve the operation of permit parking schemes.
The main section-specific changes are:
· 7.2.1 Parking Priority - includes action to be taken on businesses utilising parking on residential streets
· 7.2.2 Delivery & Service Vehicles – confirmation that ‘live music venues’ would warrant creation of loading zones
· 7.2.4 Paid Parking – added the following sentence: “There will be no additional parking meters installed in the Inner West Council area beyond the number already installed in the above-listed areas.”
· 7.6 Parking Encroachment on Driveways – includes an explanation of how Council will consider historical parking arrangements for the purposes of enforcement
· 7.6 Parking Encroachment on Driveways – includes the offering line marking to demarcate driveways as a Council service available at a fee, in addition to residents being able to paint driveway lines at no-cost.
· 7.8 Boat, Caravan & Trailer Parking – includes reference to the NSW Public Spaces (Unattended Property) Act 2021
· 7.11 Car Share Parking Schemes – includes reference to Council’s 2021 Car Share Policy
· 7.12.2 – Display and Use of Permits – explains that permits may be physical or digital
· 7.12.4 Exclusion of Certain Developments – explains permit eligibility where a single rateable property is subdivided into two or more properties
· 7.14.3 Quantity of Permits – explains that the maximum number of resident permits is two in lower density areas, or one in densely developed areas
· 7.14.4 On-Site Parking – explains that permit eligibility will depend on the number of on-site spaces regardless of their size, and explains that Council will support closing a driveway if the parking space is considered too small
· 7.14.5 Temporary Resident Parking Permits - explains that Council may grant a temporary permit in exceptional circumstances
· 7.15 Visitor Parking Permits – explains that visitor permits may be issued in the form of a transferable permit or a one-day single use permit
· 7.15.3 Quantity of Permits (visitor) – explains that Council will move toward a single system of one-day permits rather than transferrable permits
· 7.16.2 Eligibility (of trades permits) – includes removalist trucks and explains the decision to issue a trades permit is at the discretion of Council
· 7.16.3 Quantity of Permits (trades) – allows only three permits annually, and the permit period being up to 12 weeks
· 7.17.3 Quantity of Permits (business) – a maximum of two permits is permitted, reduced from three as were previously available in some scheme areas
· 7.20 Parking Scheme Investigations & Development – clarifies warrants for implementation
· 7.22.2 Pensioner Permits – no longer available to new applicants.
The proposed changes to Policy are considered modest and would not significantly impact existing parking rights in any part of the Council area.
The changes do not fully harmonise the policies of the three former councils but brings all the policies into a single document. It is intended that that further harmonisation could be considered in the next policy review.
At this stage, no changes to permit fees are proposed. In the future, permit fee changes may be recommended as part of Council’s consideration of its fees and charges schedule.
For schemes to operate effectively, the number of permits issued should be constrained so that permit numbers do not unreasonably exceed the number of kerbside spaces available, as required in the TfNSW Permit Parking Guidelines. It follows that in densely developed areas, permits should be restricted to no more than one per rateable property, whilst in less densely developed areas this can be two.
Ideally, permit numbers should be in the range of 100%, but no more than 150%, of parking spaces available. Council’s permit data shows there are currently several schemes that have permit numbers well in excess of 150% of spaces available.
When schemes are over-allocated to this extent, their effectiveness is reduced, and they are unbalanced in terms of favouring permit holders over those without permits. In the long term, to improve the effectiveness of these schemes, there will need to be a further reduction in permit numbers. Such a reduction can be coordinated with improved active and public transport, which will ultimately reduce demand for private car ownership.
In the future, the extent of the Inner West Council area covered by permit parking schemes will likely increase as new apartments are constructed in accordance with Council’s Our Fairer Future Plan. Council should be proactive in investigating permit parking schemes, as development proceeds, in the interests of existing residents of older properties within or near these redevelopment areas that do not have onsite parking. Council should also continue to be proactive in informing residents of new developments that they are not eligible for permits.
Proposed community engagement
It is proposed that both the draft Parking Strategy and the draft revised Public Domain Parking Policy be placed on public exhibition for a minimum of four weeks but may extend to six weeks to accommodate school holidays (if applicable).
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no immediate financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
Actions from the Strategy or Policy such as the use of technology, undertaking of further studies or re-purposing of parking would be subject to the establishment of project budgets and be subject to separate approval through the annual budgeting process.
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1.⇩ |
Draft Parking Strategy |
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2.⇩ |
Draft revised Public Domain Parking Policy |
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Public Exhibition - Sydenham Road Strategy
Prepared By: Manod Wickramasinghe - Traffic and Transport Planning Manager
Authorised By: Peter Shields - Director Engineering
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RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council publicly exhibit the draft Sydenham Road Strategy (Attachments 1 and 2) for a period of 28 days and seek community feedback on the proposed Strategy.
2. That following the conclusion of the exhibition period, the draft Sydenham Road Strategy be brought back to Council for consideration and adoption.
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
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2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport 3: Creative communities and a strong economy |
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Council has developed a comprehensive Sydenham Road Strategy that addresses a Council resolution from December 2024 and the findings of community engagements undertaken in March and April 2025.
This report provides details of the scope of these works and identifies a staging plan prioritizing the implementation of the works in three stages:
· Short term grant funded works. Includes paving renewal, furnishings, brick paved highlights in key activation zones, pavement art and planting in a central section of Sydenham Road.
· Short term Council funded works. Includes further paving renewal, furnishings, brick paved highlights, pavement art, planting, pedestrian crossings and timed parking control works.
· Long term works. Additional footway paving, furnishings, landscaping of the remaining parts of the study area. TfNSW works including pedestrian crossings at Buckley St, signalised traffic lights at the Fitzroy/ Sydenham/ Sydney Road intersection and a cyclepath along Sydenham Road. As there works are on a State Road they require support and funding from TfNSW.
Attachment 1 and 2 identify the scope of these works.
It is recommended that Council exhibit the plans and seek community comment, whilst also advocating to TfNSW to seek their approval and support for changes on Sydenham Road itself, given the road’s status as a state road.
Funding is available for the short term grant funded works which must be expended this financial year. Council has also recently resolved to reallocate funds from the Cooks River Lighting project towards the Sydenham Road Strategy, and these funds are anticipated to be adequate to deliver the Short term Council funded works. At this time there is no funding available to deliver the long term works and it is noted that Council needs to consult with TfNSW on works that are their responsibility, before funding can be identified.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 22 October 2024, Council resolved the following in part:
1. That Council commence work on a Sydenham Road Strategy, with the objective of improving walkability, traffic and safety on Sydenham Road between Victoria Road and Sydenham Station.
2. That the Sydenham Road Strategy provide detailed designs, plans and projects to resolve the following issues:
a) Resolving parking issues;
b) Improving lighting;
c) Upgrading footpaths;
d) Investigating new active transport links;
e) Improving safety at key intersections, including Sydenham Road at Victoria Road, Fitzroy Street and Buckley Street;
f) Improving wayfinding to support local businesses;
g) Poorly managed street trees
In early 2025 Council was successful in gaining $1million in Transport for NSW (TfNSW) funding under the reVITALise program for short term streetscape improvements in the Sydenham Road Strategy study area. The focus of the grant funding is to improve areas within 500m of Sydenham Station by funding works that will make the area safer, better connected and attractive for accessing the station. The works supported by the grant include public art, tree planting and landscaping, lighting, pedestrian access improvements and street furniture installations. Key requirements of this funding include certain specific community engagements to be completed and for the works to be completed by 31 May 2026.
The reVITALise funding has therefore created an opportunity to deliver short term works that can address many of the objectives of the Sydenham Road Strategy. This also sets up Council to deliver other works that require longer lead times for approval to be delivered using Council or other funding sources.
In March and April 2025 Council undertook early community engagement activities that included:
· A letterbox drop to residents and businesses within 800m of the study area directing people to a survey on Council’s Your Say website
· Door knocking of businesses, a business workshop and a community pop-up event.
· In accordance with requirements of the TfNSW grant a community walkshop and co-design workshop with attendees selected from Council’s Local Democracy Groups.
Key findings include community support for pedestrian safety improvements, addressing issues with parking management and creating an attractive streetscape environment through artwork, furniture and planting installations. Details of the findings of these engagements are published in Engagement Outcomes Reports (Attachment 3 and 4).
At the Council meeting held on 23 September 2025, Council resolved the following in part:
7. That Council, given the funding commitment from the State Government, and following a further assessment of costs for the Cooks River Lighting project, reallocate any surplus funding initially dedicated to the project in the Inner West Council’s operational budget to fund the upgrade of lighting, footpaths, safety upgrades and other infrastructure as part of the Sydenham Road Strategy.
It is, however, noted that the specific amount of funding is to be confirmed.
DISCUSSION
The Sydenham Road Strategy study area (Figure 1) is focused on the 600m Sydenham Road corridor between Victoria Road and Railway Parade and considers connecting side streets.
Sydenham Road is high-traffic state road, providing a critical east-west link connecting Dulwich Hill, through the north end of Marrickville, to Sydenham, St Peters and beyond.
Sydenham Road runs through both residential and industrial lands. The section between Victoria Road and Sydenham Station, a length of some 600m, is home to multiple commercial and industrial premises, including micro-breweries, distilleries, gyms, mechanics and smash repairers, art galleries, community transport providers, cafes and factories. This makes for a vibrant and exciting local economy.
The combination of significant increases in density in the area, including completed and planned high density housing in the Wicks Place area and the opening of the Sydney Metro from Tallawong, has meant many more people are walking along the Sydenham Road footpaths between Victoria Road and Sydenham Station. Unfortunately, there are critical safety issues as a consequence of uneven and aged footpaths, uneven lighting, tree roots impacting footpaths and pathways, vehicles parked on footpaths and a lack of designated active transport links.

Figure 1 – Study Area
Streetscape beautification, pavement renewal works and lighting
Council has developed concept design plans that will beautify the street by adding colorful furnishings, brick paved highlights in key activation zones, pavement artworks and planting works.
Features of the design include retaining a clear 2.0 metre wide corridor on the northern side of Sydenham Road for active transport use by designating it as a shareway in the short term work plans. Furnishings and planting works are to be located kerbside with brick paving highlights proposed adjacent to intersections and on frontages to businesses where activation is being encouraged through the installation of furniture with feature lighting and planting works. These works are confined to the public road reserve with no changes proposed to paving or material finishes in the adjacent private setbacks. Details of these works are contained in the plans found in Attachment 1.
Whilst an audit of the existing lighting has found that the existing Ausgrid system has recently been upgraded to LED, there is further investigation underway to determine if this should be supplemented with additional lighting around existing mature trees.
Proposed Parking Management, Access Improvements and Transport for NSW works
There are a number of traffic management improvements identified in the plans, aimed at improving access to and from the station including the following:
Proposed Parking Management:
· Expanded vehicle drop off and pick up zones near Sydenham Station
· Introduction of 2 hour time limited parking in select locations on the northern and southern sides of Sydenham Road and adjacent side streets
Details of the New Parking Management controls are found in Attachment 2.
Access improvements:
· New raised pedestrian crossings at intersections along the northern side of Sydenham Road
· Kerb extensions and continuous footpath treatments along the southern side of Sydenham Road
· Extending the existing shared pedestrian and cycle path on the northern side to run the full length between Victoria Road and Sydenham Station
TfNSW works – Council will Request TfNSW to consider:
· installing pedestrian crossings at Buckley Street
· installing traffic signals at the Fitzroy Street/ Sydenham Road/ Sydney Street intersection, to control traffic turning movements and also provide a safe crossing point for pedestrians
· the merits of a two way cycleway along Sydenham Road between Victoria Road and Sydenham Station
· implementing short term parking in Sydenham Road
Full details of the above work scope is included in the staging plans (Attachment 1).
Next Steps and Project Staging
Council’s Sydenham Road Strategy requires a wide range of initiatives to address the issues raised. It is proposed that Council firstly undertake select improvements to the footpath and verge areas utilising grant funds and follow up later with a broader program of works focused on other footpath areas and road carriageway areas where TfNSW carries responsibility.
This approach therefore requires the reVITALise grant funded works to be confined to the verge environment whilst other works that require referral and concurrence from TfNSW, including parking management, pedestrian safety improvements and selective road works seek other sources of funding.
To meet these objectives, it is recommended that Council deliver the improvements in the following stages. Attachment 1 indicates the extent of works in each stage:
· Short term grant funded works:
Includes delivery of street beautification works focused on renewal of footpaths, new furniture, lighting, art and planting works in a central portion of the northern side of Sydenham Road on land managed by Council, where the paving and street improvements will complement adjacent business activities. These works can proceed quickly in line with the grant requirement for completion of construction by 31 May 2026.
There are no traffic or parking related works proposed in the short term grant funded works.
It is therefore recommended that Council endorse public exhibition of these plans noting grant funding has been provided to deliver these works in 2025/26.
· Short term Council funded works:
Includes the delivery of street beautification works including renewal of footpaths new furniture, lighting, art and landscaping works. It also includes new pedestrian (zebra) crossings, expansion of time limited parking and vehicle pickup and setdown areas that will require concurrence from TfNSW before they can proceed. The scope of these works has been carefully defined to include the remaining footpaths on the northern side of Sydenham Road as well as select areas on the southern side of Sydenham Road and in the adjacent off-street carpark at Barclay Street where there is a positive opportunity to create an attractive rest space with furnishings and greening.
Council’s recent resolution indicated an intention to prioritise funding works in Sydenham Road. The scope of this work stage is estimated to approximately match the value of this additional funding.
It is therefore recommended that Council endorse public exhibition of these plans on the basis thay funding is provisioned in the 2026-27 budget, enabling these works to proceed in the forthcoming financial year.
· Long term vision works:
These works will complete the Sydenham Road Strategy by including renewal of the remainder of the footpaths along the corridor as well as select works that look to address pedestrian safety and active transport linkages that will require concurrence and delivery in partnership with TfNSW. They include the completion of the remainder of footpath renewal and new furniture works along the southern side of Sydenham Road as well as the identification of a number of key TfNSW projects, including additional pedestrian (zebra) crossings to cross Sydenham Road, additional signalised crossings of Sydenham Road and an on road cycle path. Continuous Footpath Treatments are also proposed on the southern side of Sydenham Road on minor cross streets. Note also that the cycle path proposal is expected to displace on street parking if it proceeds.
It is therefore recommended that Council endorse public exhibition of these plans and look to identify future funding opportunities and partner with TfNSW for delivery of works.
Community Engagement
As outlined above, it is recommended that Council endorse the Sydenham Road concept plans (Attachment 1 and 2) for exhibition for not less than 28 days. The engagement will include a letterbox drop to all the same residents that were previously contacted. Council also plan to host a public meeting for residents during the exhibition period. Following the conclusion of the exhibition period, an Engagement Outcomes Report will be prepared and a report will be put to Council recommending the way forward for the proposed works.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
To date Council has committed approximately $150,000 of the reVITALise grant funding on community engagement, development of design concepts and site investigations. The Short Term Grant Funded works have been estimated by a quantity surveyor at $0.85m and can be funded from the remaining reVITALise grant funding that Council has received from TfNSW.
The Short Term Council Funded works have been estimated by a quantity surveyor as $1.6m. It is noted that Council has resolved to allocate funds to enable this work to proceed in the budget process.
The Long term Vision Plan identifies works to renew the balance of footpaths along Sydenham Road as well as various works that are the responsibility of TfNSW. The works that are Council’s responsibility have been estimated as $1.1m and require identification of funding.
Attachment 4 has been published separately in the Attachments Document on Council’s Website https://www.innerwest.nsw.gov.au/about/the-council/council-meetings/current-council-meetings
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1.⇩ |
Draft Sydenham Rd Concept Design Plans |
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2.⇩ |
Draft parking management plan |
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3.⇩ |
Engagement Report - Walkshop |
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4.⇨ |
Engagement Outcomes Report - IWC survey - Published Separately on Council’s website |
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Local Transport Forum Terms of Reference and 2025 Authorisation and Delegation Instrument
Prepared By: Manod Wickramasinghe - Traffic and Transport Planning Manager
Authorised By: Peter Shields - Director Engineering
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RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council adopt the revised Terms of reference for the Local Transport Forum.
2. That Council sub-delegate to the General Manager the functions delegated by Transport for NSW to Council in the “Authorisation and Delegation – Prescribed Traffic Control Devices and Regulation of Traffic”, as outlined in this report, and incorporate these sub-delegations in the Instrument of Delegation to the General Manager.
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
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2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport |
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Transport for NSW has recently made changes in the governance and delegation framework for managing local traffic and transport matters within Council. The State Government has introduced a new authorisation and delegation process, renaming the Local Traffic Committee (LTC) to the Local Transport Forum (LTF) and updating its membership and operational procedures. The intention is to streamline decision-making, expedite approvals for local street management, and clarify the role of Council.
Given the changes, it is recommended that Council to adopt the revised Terms of Reference for the Local Transport Forum and to sub-delegate specific traffic management functions to the General Manager. These include approving operational traffic matters like temporary road closures, sign adjustments, and parking changes and allowing the approval of traffic facilities that are consistent with an approved concept or allowing minor modifications to traffic facilities where required to achieve compliance or address safety concerns.
The proposed changes are intended to allow Council to manage local streets more effectively, reduce delays, and provide clear escalation and review mechanisms.
BACKGROUND
The State Government has issued a new authorisation and delegation to councils with regard
to the management of unclassified roads through the Local Traffic Committee process. The
intention of the changes is to expedite the approval process associated with the management
of local streets.
Key changes include:
• The Local Traffic Committee (LTC) is renamed Local Transport Forum (LTF).
• The formal members of the Local Transport Forum are representatives from each of Council, Transport, NSW Police, and the relevant State Member(s) of Parliament. This is consistent with the Local Traffic Committee.
• There will be no voting at the Local Transport Forum but Forum members will be able to comment on proposals.
• Referral of items to the LTF would be mandatory for items regulating traffic for greater than 6 months or in instances where public transport is negatively impacted for greater than 24 hours.
• Other items such as parking changes or installation of pedestrian facilities can be referred to the LTF for technical advice.
• Councils may sub-delegate approval functions related to the management of traffic and parking to staff.
• A Statement of Concern (SoC) would be utilised by TfNSW if there is a disagreement in the management of local streets. This replaces the Regional Traffic Committee escalation process. TfNSW retain powers to reverse Council decisions in events of significant concern.
Currently, delegation has been provided to the General Manager (and their delegate) for the following operational traffic matters:
· Short term temporary road closure
· Works Zones
· Sign adjustment
· Linemarking
· Warning Signs
· Australian Road Rules Signs
· Temporary Bus Zones
· Loading Zones
· Motorbike Parking
· Car Share Parking
· Disabled (Accessible) Parking
· Time Restricted parking (maximum 10 parking spaces)
DISCUSSION
Revised Terms of Reference have been provided in Attachment 1.
Delegation to the General Manager
A key intention of the making of the “Authorisation and Delegation – Prescribed Traffic Control Devices and Regulation of Traffic” (Delegation) is to empower Councils to manage streets more effectively. In the Delegation, Trasport for NSW has delegated to Council:
· The functions and powers of Transport for NSW under section 115(2) of the Roads Act 1993 to regulate traffic on a public road for purposes other than those set out in in that section.
· The power to establish and operate a special event parking scheme for a road under Part 8, Division 3 of the Road Transport (General) Regulation 2021.
The Delegation also explicitly allows for Council to sub-delegate these powers to the General Manager and other employees of Council.
On this basis, it is proposed that the following matters be sub-delegated to the General Manager and included as an additional delegation in the Instrument of Delegation to the General Manager. Council’s General Manager will in turn sub-delegate these functions to the Director Engineering and the Traffic and Transport Planning Manager, as the senior most Council officers with operational responsibility for traffic and transport matters. The majority of these items have previously been delegated, and the additional delegations specifically relate to:
· Regulation of traffic
· Intersection controls
· Electric Vehicle Parking restrictions
· Special event parking schemes
· Modification to approved Traffic Facilities/Infrastructure
Further detail of each delegation is listed in the following table.
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Proposed Delegation |
Comments/ Control Measures |
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Temporary full road closures |
For approved events less than 48 hours in duration For road works less than 12 weeks in duration |
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Regulation of traffic |
Regulation of traffic (turn bans, one-way, cyclist excepted signs etc) for a period of up to 6 months |
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Temporary Work Zones |
Where located predominately in front of the property undertaking the works or where the impacted resident/property owner has given written concurrence |
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Sign adjustment |
Minor sign adjustments such as modifications to make signs more visible (e.g. move from behind a tree, installing supplementary signs or increase sign sizes) |
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Linemarking, symbols and pavement markings |
New or realigned linemarking, symbols and pavement markings in accordance with the Australian Standards |
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Intersection controls |
New or upgraded ‘Give way’ or ‘Stop’ control including signs and linemarking |
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Warning and guidance signs |
Installation of traffic warning signs and guidance signs in accordance with the Australian Standards |
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‘No Stopping’ and ‘No Parking’ Signs |
Signs to reinforce the statutory or safety requirements (e.g. 10m ‘No Stopping’ at intersections) this includes a reduction in the statutory ‘No Stopping’ requirements subject to a TfNSW risk assessment being undertaken |
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Temporary Bus Zones |
For up to 6 months, at the request of a public transport provider |
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Loading Zones |
Where located predominately in front of the property requesting the Loading Zone or where the adjacent resident/property owner has been consulted and raises no objection. |
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Motorbike Parking |
Where there is no net loss in parking for cars (e.g. Between driveways) or where majority support is achieved during engagement. |
|
Car Share Parking |
- Where located adjacent to a park, Council owned property, multi-dwelling residential property, mixed used development; or at the rear or side of a single residential property or at the rear or side of a business property, subject to engagement. - In front of a single residential or single business property where the resident/property owner has provided written concurrence. |
|
Electric Vehicle Parking |
- Where located adjacent to a park, Council owned property, multi-dwelling residential property, mixed used development; or at the rear or side of a single residential property or at the rear or side of a business property, subject to engagement. - In front of a single residential or single business property where the resident/property owner has provided written concurrence. |
|
Mobility (Accessible) Parking |
Where located predominately in front of the property requesting the Mobility Parking or where located on the side or rear boundary of another property or where the impacted resident/property owner has given written concurrence. |
|
Time Restricted Parking, (Resident Parking Scheme or otherwise time restricted) |
Where changes are made to a maximum of ten parking spaces, and all residents/businesses immediately adjacent to the proposed time restricted parking have given written support (through individual correspondence) |
|
Special event parking scheme |
For the activation of an established special event parking scheme for a large scale event |
|
Modification to approved Traffic Facilities/Infrastructure |
Where the modification is minor and required to achieve technical compliance or address identified safety concerns (subject to any required stakeholder engagement). |
*Referral to the LTF is mandatory where there is regulation of traffic that negatively impacts public transport for more than 24 hours.
Other Traffic Matters
Other traffic or parking matters not identified in the table above will continue to be reported through the formal LTF meeting process and Minutes of these meetings will be provided to the next available Council Meeting for adoption.
Review Process
To ensure appropriate oversight, the existing review process will continue. If LTF members, Committee Chairperson or Councillors receive substantial complaints regarding a delegated officer’s decision, they may request a review by the General Manager via the LTF and Council.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
|
1.⇩ |
Local Traffic Forum Terms of Reference |
|
Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Local Transport Forum Meeting - 15 September 2025
Prepared By: Manod Wickramasinghe - Traffic and Transport Planning Manager
Authorised By: Peter Shields - Director Engineering
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive and adopt the recommendations of the Local Transport Forum meeting held on 15 September 2025. |
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Local Transport Forum meeting was held at the Ashfield Service Centre and has made recommendations for Council’s consideration and adoption.
DISCUSSION
The September 2025 meeting of the Local Transport Forum was held at the Ashfield Service Centre. The minutes of the meeting are shown in Attachment 1.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report. Projects proposed for implementation are funded within existing budget allocations.
ITEMS BY WARD –
|
Ward |
Item |
|
Baludarri (Balmain)
|
Wellington Street and Terry Street, Rozelle - Proposed New Raised Pedestrian Crossing |
|
Traffic Management Plan for the 2025 Balmain New Year's Eve Event |
|
|
Gulgadya (Leichhardt)
|
Nil. |
|
Midjuburi (Marrickville)
|
Murray Street at Smidmore Street, Marrickville – Proposed raised pedestrian crossing and Refuge islands - Design Plan 10344-A |
|
Gannon Street, Tempe – Pedestrian Crossing Review |
|
|
Saywell Street, Marrickville – Temporary full road closure for Heaps Gay Street Festival 2025 – Saturday 29 November 2025 |
|
|
Holbeach Avenue, Tempe - Proposed timed parking restrictions |
|
|
Unnamed laneway (rear of Church Street and Warren Road), Marrickville |
|
|
Sydenham Station Parking Study |
|
|
Djarrawunang (Ashfield)
|
Nil. |
|
Damun (Stanmore) |
Shaw Street at Belgrave Street, Petersham - Proposed 'STOP' control and kerb extensions/blisters |
|
Newtown Enmore Parking Review Study |
|
|
All Wards |
Nil. |
|
1.⇩ |
Local Transport Forum minutes - 15 September 2025 |
|
Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Post Exhibition - Loyalty Square, Balmain Improvement Works
Prepared By: Tim Brown - Capital Works Manager
Authorised By: Ryann Midei - Director Property and Major Projects
|
RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council adopt the revised conceptual design of the Loyalty Square, Balmain Improvement works including List of Fallen Soldiers.
2. That Council endorse proceeding with detailed design development, planning approval and delivery stages for the Loyalty Square, Balmain Improvement Works.
|
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report summarises the outcomes of community engagement and details a subsequent revised concept proposal for the planned improvement works at Loyalty Square, Balmain.
The plans include a new memorial wall recognising Balmain service personnel from World War 1 who are not currently listed on the existing 1916 War Memorial, along with associated landscape improvements.
Two options for improvements were put forward for community consideration as part of the engagement process:
Option 1: Retaining and widening of the existing rosemary garden at the Memorial steps.
Option 2: Sandstone benches to replace two of the existing rosemary garden beds at the Memorial steps and the widening of the remaining two rosemary garden beds.
Community feedback was also sought regarding the removal of the pergola and wisteria vine in front of the Woolworths building, as well as the proposed list of fallen soldiers to be included in the new memorial wall.
In response to community feedback, the proposed improvements have been updated as follows:
· Retention of the pergola and wisteria vine in front of the Woolworths building and additional lighting around the pergola to comply with relevant lighting standards
· Seating adjustments along the Woolworths building frontage and opportunities for additional seating within the plaza
· Removal of the bollards, chains and rosemary gardens around the existing memorial and replacement with stone set pavement
· Replacement of existing planting along the Darling Street side of the plaza with rosemary garden and additional seating
· Reduced number of new memorial walls, and repositioning/orientation around the existing fig tree.
· Exploration of banner opportunities for installation onto new lighting poles
· Additional tree and shade opportunities on the eastern side of the plaza
The proposed list of Fallen Soldiers to be included on the additional wall contains 196 names, with the criteria for inclusion being that they were Killed in Action or Died of Wounds, and lived in the Suburbs of Balmain, East Balmain and Birchgrove.
It is noted that the June Council 2025 resolution called to investigate whether the upgrade can be undertaken in advance of the 2026 ANZAC Day commemoration or whether the works relating to the listing of fallen soldiers can be. On further investigation, the memorial walls require detailed shop drawings and a fabrication process undertaken by the construction contractor. Due to the time needed to procure the construction contractor, and complete the shop drawings and fabrication, installation will need to be scheduled to commence after the ANZAC Day commemoration in April 2025 to avoid any potential disruption to ANZAC Day. It is proposed to complete the works by July 2026.
The estimated cost to deliver the improvements work is $420,000. A budget of $420,000 has been allocated from the Main Street Revitalisation program to deliver this project.
This report seeks to obtain Council endorsement to adopt the revised conceptual design for the Loyalty Square, Balmain Improvement works including List of Fallen Soldiers.
BACKGROUND
As part of an expression of interest under the Main Streets Revitalisation program, Loyalty Square, Balmain was identified by the Balmain/Rozelle Chamber of Commerce and other community members for improvements. The square is a central meeting place and home to a significant ANZAC memorial.
At the Council meeting held on 5 December 2023, Council resolved the following in part:
1. That Council consider the proposal to add an additional memorial wall or structure to Loyalty Square Balmain to recognise the fallen soldiers not currently listed on the existing War Memorial, as part of the 2024/25 budget process.
3. That Council Officers seek and/or apply for grants or funding sources for new war memorials in Balmain.
At the Council meeting held on 17 June 2025, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council publicly exhibit the conceptual designs for the Loyalty Square, Balmain Improvement works including List of Fallen Soldiers for a period of 28 days and seek community feedback.
2. That following the conclusion of the exhibition period, the conceptual designs for Loyalty Square, Balmain improvement works including List of Fallen Soldiers be brought back to Council for consideration for adoption.
3. That officers investigate whether the upgrade can be undertaken in advance of the 2026 ANZAC Day commemoration or whether the works relating to the listing of fallen soldiers can be.
DISCUSSION
As part of the Main Streets Revitalisation Program, Council developed concept plans for the improvement of Loyalty Square, Balmain. These plans include a new memorial wall recognising Balmain service personnel from World War 1 who are not currently listed on the existing 1916 War Memorial, along with associated landscape improvements.
Two options for improvements were put forward for community consideration as part of the engagement process:
Option 1: Retaining and widening of the existing rosemary garden at the Memorial steps.
Option 2: Sandstone benches to replace two of the existing rosemary garden beds at the Memorial steps and the widening of the remaining two rosemary garden beds.
Community feedback was also sought regarding the removal of the pergola and wisteria vine in front of the Woolworths building, as well as the proposed list of fallen soldiers to be included in the new memorial wall.
Community Engagement
Community engagement was undertaken from 20 August to 17 September 2025 via Council’s Your Say platform. This was supported by a range of outreach methods including flyers, social media, email communications, on-site signage, and a pop-up stall held on 6 September. During this period, the community was invited to provide feedback on the proposed works.
During the four-week engagement period, the Your Say Inner West project page received 3,049 visits. In total, 258 submissions or comments were received, including feedback from 145 individuals at information stalls, 80 via the Your Say platform, and 33 through email correspondence.
Submissions were also received from key stakeholders including the Balmain-Rozelle RSL Subbranch, Chamber of Commerce, Department of Veteran Affairs, and Climate Change Balmain/Rozelle.
Summary of Community Engagement Feedback
|
Contribution Summary Online Survey |
You Said |
|
Do you support the removal of the pergola and Wisteria vine?
80 Responses |
Yes – 32 (40%) No – 38 (48%) Don’t know/Unsure -10 (12%) |
|
Do you support removal of the bollards and chain around the war memorial?
79 Responses |
Yes – 44 (56%) No - 22 (28%) Don’t know/Unsure -13 (16%) |
|
Which option do you support
68 Responses |
Option 1 – Widened Rosemary Garden 30 (44%) Option 2 – Sandstone Bench and Widened Rosemary Garden 38 (56%) |
|
Do you support the relocation of the existing plaques to the new memorial walls?
79 Responses |
Yes – 38 (48%) No – 17 (22%) Don’t know/Unsure – 24 (30%) |
|
Do you support the creation of new memorial walls commemorating fallen WWI soldiers?
80 Responses |
Yes – 51 (64%) No – 19 (24%) Don’t know/Unsure – 10 (12%) |
|
Do you support improving lighting in the space?
79 Responses |
Yes – 67 (85%) No – 6 (7.5%) Don’t know/Unsure – 6 (7.5%) |
|
Do you believe there are Balmain/Rozelle fallen soldiers that should be included in the list. Please provide details
80 Responses |
Yes – 8 (10%) No – 12 (15%) Don’t know/Unsure – 60 (75%) |
It is noted that emails and onsite correspondences are not included in the online survey figures referenced above. These contributions have been grouped into relevant themes, thoroughly evaluated, and are detailed in the Engagement Outcomes Report (Attachment 1).
Additional themes included requests for more greenery, shade, seating, improved cleanliness, facade upgrades, signage for promotions, water bubbler replacement, and bike parking.
There were eight open-text responses to the question: “Do you believe there are Balmain/Rozelle fallen soldiers that should be included in the list? Please provide details.” Council’s Community History and Heritage Coordinator reviewed all suggested names. Each was determined not to meet the inclusion criteria—either because the individual’s name already appears on the original memorial, or they were not from Balmain.
Revised Conceptual Design
In response to community feedback, the proposed improvements (see Attachment 2) have been updated as follows:
· Retention of the pergola and wisteria vine in front of the Woolworths building and additional lighting around the pergola to comply with relevant lighting standards
· Seating adjustments along the Woolworths building frontage and opportunities for additional seating within the plaza
· Removal of the bollards, chains and rosemary gardens around the existing memorial and replacement with stone set pavement
· Replacement of existing planting along the Darling Street side of the plaza with rosemary garden and additional seating
· Reduced number of new memorial walls, and repositioning/orientation around the existing fig tree.
· Exploration of banner opportunities for installation onto new lighting poles
· Additional tree and shade opportunities on the eastern side of the plaza
· The existing decorative sandstone markers around the periphery of the Loyalty Square Balmain area are proposed to be removed as they are weathered and damaged.
Following the revised design, Council met with representatives of the Balmain/Rozelle RSL sub branch to seek feedback on the draft concept design. The representatives were supportive of the changes around the existing memorial, the proposed new memorial walls and overall design.
List of Fallen Soldiers - Background and Research
By way of background, the additional names of service personnel from the Balmain district who fought and died in World War was researched by Inner West Council’s Community History and Heritage Team.
Names were collated from the Commonwealth Australian Imperial Force Project, a World War One Database, “Discovering Anzacs”. The website was a partnership between National Archives of Australia and Archives New Zealand and included digitised service records of Australian and New Zealanders who served in the First World War and the Boer War.
The list of additional names was fact checked by Balmain-Rozelle RSL sub-Branch president Ron Glue in 2023 and approved by the Balmain Association in 2024.
St Marys Anglican Church and Balmain Rowing Club added a few additional names, which were residents who had a strong association with the Balmain area and the list was cross referenced, and fact checked.
The final list contains 196 additional names with the criteria for inclusion being that they were Killed in Action or Died of Wounds, and lived in the Suburbs of Balmain, East Balmain and Birchgrove. It’s worth noting that the names of Rozelle fallen soldiers are documented and commemorated at the Rozelle Tram sheds.
No additional names were added through the community consultation and the Final List of Fallen Soldiers is attached to this report.
Planning Pathway
The proposed works have been assessed as Development Permitted Without Consent under the State Environmental Planning Policy (Transport and Infrastructure) 2021, therefore the works will be completed under a Part 5 planning pathway.
Delivery Schedule
The proposed project delivery schedule is outlined below:
|
Item |
Due by |
|
Design Stage – landscape/plaza |
November 2025 |
|
Procurement of Construction Contractor |
January 2026 |
|
Detailed Shop Drawings and Fabrication of New Memorial Wall |
April 2026 |
|
Construction Start |
May 2026 |
|
Construction Finish |
July 2026 |
It is noted that the 17 June Council 2025 resolution called to investigate whether the upgrade can be undertaken in advance of the 2026 ANZAC Day commemoration or whether the works relating to the listing of fallen soldiers can be. On further investigation, the memorial walls require detailed shop drawings and a fabrication process undertaken by the construction contractor.
Due to the time needed to procure the construction contractor, and complete the shop drawings and fabrication, installation will need to be scheduled to commence after the ANZAC Day commemoration in April 2025 to avoid any potential disruption to ANZAC Day.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
The estimated cost to deliver the improvements work is $420,000. A budget of $420,000 has been allocated from the Main Street Revitalisation program to deliver this project.
Attachment 3 has been published separately in the Attachments Document on Council’s Website https://www.innerwest.nsw.gov.au/about/the-council/council-meetings/current-council-meetings
|
1.⇩ |
Loyalty Square Balmain Improvement Works - Draft Concept Plan |
|
2.⇩ |
List of Balmain District Soldiers who fought and died in WWI |
|
3.⇨ |
Loyalty Square Balmain Improvement Works Engagement Outcomes Report - Published Separately on Council’s website |
|
Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Public Exhibition - Jack Shanahan Reserve - Draft Plan of Management
Prepared By: Aaron Callaghan - Parks and Public Domain Planning Manager
Authorised By: Ryann Midei - Director Property and Major Projects
|
RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council publicly exhibit the Draft Plan of Management for Jack Shanahan Reserve for a period of 42 days and seek public feedback on the proposed plan of management and masterplan for the park.
2. That following the conclusion of the exhibition period, the Park Plan of Management be brought back to Council for consideration for adoption.
|
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report presents the ten-year Draft Plan of Management and Master Plan for Jack Shanahan Reserve, offering a clear framework to guide its vision, planning, and stewardship. Developed by
Jack Shanahan Reserve is located in Dulwich Hill with the parkland located within the Djarrawunang (Ashfield Ward). The parkland is bounded by Sydney Trains heavy rail on the south, the Dulwich Hill light rail terminus on the east and Hercules Street on the north and west. The heavy rail line is set to become part of the Sydney Metro expansion to Bankstown, making it a significant boundary of the site.
Community engagement for the development of the draft Plan of Management was conducted from 2 April to 12 May 2024. An on-site community engagement session took place on 4 May 2024.
The following key items were identified during the community engagement process:
· Retain the identity and character of Jack Shanahan Reserve whilst integrating modern recreational requirements and amenities
· Improve passive surveillance through park activation and design changes to the parkland which improve accessibility and connections to surrounding streets.
· Develop Jack Shanahan Reserve’s linkages to the GreenWay
· Improve the main recreational spaces within the parkland including improvements to the skate park (currently under construction)
Key masterplanning concepts include:
Skate
Park design improvements - including repair and resurfacing of main skate area
and removal of volcano, addition of half pipe, activities for lower skill
levels and transition area overhaulSkate Park lighting for night time use and
safety Provision of a new children’s playground (a park activation
opportunity) Amenities block refurbishment with future
consideration for a potential food and beverage kiosk. Additional amenities
including bike cage for commuters, more seating and shade /undercover areas. Additional
biodiversity and low planting for visibility Removal of the carparking at the front
entrance, and introduction of potential perpendicular on street parking.Upgraded
water bubblers with dog bowls and bottle refill stations Development of an
exercise and walking track circuitThe next
step to progress the masterplanning is to publicly exhibit the Draft
Plan of Management for Jack Shanahan
Reserve for a period of 42 days and seek public feedback on the proposed
plan of management and masterplan for the park.
Following the conclusion of the exhibition period, the Park Plan of Management be brought back to Council for consideration for adoption
A Park Plan of Management (POM) is a guiding framework which directs the future vision,
planning, management and use of the park. It will be used to inform the development of the park over the next ten years. The associated Master Plan is a design report outlining the actions required for improvement, intended to guide the physical upgrade of the parkland over the next ten years. It does this by suggesting how the strategies set out in the Plan of Management can be translated into site specific improvement opportunities for use and enjoyment of the park.
DISCUSSION
Jack Shanahan Reserve is located in Dulwich Hill with the parkland located within the Djarrawunang (Ashfield Ward). The parkland is bounded by Sydney Trains heavy rail on the south, the Dulwich Hill light rail terminus on the east and Hercules Street on the north and west. The heavy rail line is set to become part of the Sydney Metro expansion to Bankstown, making it a significant boundary of the site.
Key features of the parkland include a skate park, a tennis court, a basketball half court, an amenities building and a pedestrian footpath connecting Dulwich Hill light rail station to Terrace Road. Jack Shanahan Reserve is an important destination for residents and also attracts a number of park users from adjoining suburbs due to its popular skate park facility. The parkland is used by pedestrians and cyclists as an off-street route to Dulwich Hill train station and light rail stop. The parkland also makes up part of the GreenWay masterplan which was adopted by Council in 2018.
The GreenWay, which is currently in construction, includes a direct link to the top of the parkland. As highlighted in both the community engagement process and through an in-depth review of the geographical constraints and site analysis, the parkland does have issues with poor passive surveillance. This raises concerns around park safety and the need for greater activation of the parkland, including design improvements required to address park safety in the long term.
In addition, multiple park assets are nearing the end of their useful life and need to be upgraded and/ or replaced. This includes refurbishment of the public toilet and amenities building, upgrades to the tennis court and half-court basketball court, the main skate park (upgrades currently underway), the skate snake run area and the parks BBQ area.

Community Engagement
Community engagement for the development of the draft Plan of Management was conducted from 2 April to 12 May 2024. An on-site community engagement session took place on 4 May 2024.
Figure 1 On-site community engagement-Community Feedback on the Park and its Use

Key Management /Draft Masterplanning Concepts
The following key items were identified during the community engagement process:
· Retain the identity and character of Jack Shanahan Reserve whilst integrating modern recreational requirements and amenities
· Improve passive surveillance through park activation and design changes to the parkland which improve accessibility and connections to surrounding streets.
· Develop Jack Shanahan Reserve’s linkages to the GreenWay
· Improve the main recreational spaces within the parkland including improvements to the skate park (currently under construction)
The management items identified during the engagement process, together with comprehensive site analysis and a thorough review of the parkland and its assets, have informed the development of recommended masterplanning opportunities for the parkland. In this regard, the Draft Plan of Management and Masterplan can be found in Attachment 1 and Attachment 2, respectively.
Key masterplanning concepts include:
· Skate park enhancements - including repair and resurfacing the main skate area, removing the volcano feature, adding a half pipe, providing activities tailored to lower skill levels, and undertaking an overhaul of the transition area.
Skate Park lighting for night time use and safety Provision of a new children’s playground (a park activation opportunity)Amenities block refurbishment with future consideration for a potential food and beverage kiosk. Additional amenities including bike cage for commuters, more seating and shade /undercover areas. Additional biodiversity and low planting for visibility Removal of the carparking at the front entrance, and introduction of potential perpendicular park on the side street.Upgraded water bubblers with dog bowls and bottle refill stations Development of an exercise and walking track circuitThe next step to progress the masterplanning is to publicly exhibit the Draft Plan of Management for Jack Shanahan Reserve for a period of 42 days and seek public feedback on the proposed plan of management and masterplan for the park.
Following the conclusion of the exhibition period, the Park Plan of Management be brought back to Council for consideration for adoption.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
The long-term improvements outlined in the draft Plan of Management are valued at $6.5M over the lifespan of the Plan of Management.
The proposed upgrades are generally unfunded and will be the consideration of future budget planning processes once the Plan of Management is adopted. It’s worth noting that Council has allocated $356,000 for skate park renewal works as a part of the 2025/26 financial year budget.
Attachments 1 and 2 have been published separately in the Attachments Document on Council’s Website https://www.innerwest.nsw.gov.au/about/the-council/council-meetings/current-council-meetings
|
1.⇨ |
Draft Plan of Management Jack Shanahan - Published Separately on Council’s website |
|
2.⇨ |
Draft Masterplan Jack Shanahan - Published Separately on Council’s website |
|
|
Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Callan Park Draft Foundation Plan of Management
Prepared By: Aaron Callaghan - Parks and Public Domain Planning Manager
Authorised By: Ryann Midei - Director Property and Major Projects
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council endorses this report as a submission regarding the Greater Sydney Parklands Draft Foundation Plan of Management for Callan Park, together with its associated Access, Movement, and Parking Strategy. |
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
1: An ecologically sustainable Inner West 2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport 3: Creative communities and a strong economy 4: Healthy, resilient and caring communities 5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report is a review of the Draft Callan Park Foundation Plan of Management and Access, Movement and Parking Strategy (the Draft Plan), prepared by the Greater Sydney Parklands (GSP), and is a submission for Council’s endorsement on the Draft Plan. The Draft Plan is on exhibition until 29 October 2025.
The key planning strategies in the Draft Plan are outlined with a view to the opportunities both present and future, on Council’s capital works program, particularly as it pertains to community recreation and wellbeing initiatives within the parkland.
The Draft Plan favours pedestrian movement over that of cars and is focused on the transformation of the parkland to reflect its changing use from that of a previous hospital site to urban parkland setting which is generally supported by Council officers.
However, the ongoing investment by Inner West Council (IWC) and the current and potential for future partnership opportunities with GSP are not articulated in the Draft Plan. Some of the critical missing elements include IWC’s:
· Substantial investment in community parkland infrastructure over the past decade
· Planning and delivery of Callan Park Tidal Baths
· Planning and delivery of two all-weather sorting surfaces within the parkland to increase capacity for community sport.
This submission highlights these missing elements and seeks their acknowledgement in the Draft Plan given that partnering with Inner West Council has and will continue to be a significant element in the provision of park and community infrastructure.
Further, this submission notes the existing licensing arrangements between Council and Greater Sydney Parklands (GSP), which ensure ongoing community access to sporting grounds and community facilities, and advocates for collaboration and consultation with Council prior to any change.
It is recommended that this report be endorsed as a written submission by Inner West Council in relation to the Draft Plan of Management for Callan Park along with the Draft Access, Movement and Parking Strategy.
BACKGROUND
A draft plan of management for Callan Park (Attachment 1) is on public exhibition from 25 September to 29 October 2025. The Draft Plan outlines for the community how the parkland will be managed and transformed into the future. The Draft Plan is based on an earlier community engagement in 2024, to which Council also provided a submission (Attachment 3).
Council’s earlier submission included advocacy that a future Plan of Management be developed to cover the entire parkland, including areas under the governance of Greater Sydney Parklands and NSW Health. The Draft Plan has actioned this element.
The Draft Plan has the overarching aim of supporting the Greater Sydney Parkland’s efforts to conserve and enhance the social, cultural and environmental values of the park. In support of the Draft Plan of Management, a second planning document, an Access, Movement and Parking Strategy (The Strategy) has also been prepared for the parklands (Attachment 2). The need for the integrated traffic management strategy was an important feature of Council’s 2024 Park Plan of Management submission.
The strategy has been designed to support the Plan of management and its implementation over a ten year period. It aims to make it safer and easier for the community to move through and around Callan Park. The strategy therefore guides interim and long-term pedestrian, cycle and vehicular movement changes.
Submissions are invited via the respective online guided submission form or by email callanparkpom@gsp.nsw.gov.au. Council has promoted community submissions via its news and announcements section on Council’s website.
DISCUSSION
The Draft Plan sets out the vision for Callan Park;
“An iconic urban parkland for inner Sydney. Callan Park’s heritage is cared for, its history shared, and the natural parkland setting is enjoyed by all as a place of social connection, health and wellbeing, exploration and recreation”
The vision statement is linked to four strategic directions which promote:
· Equitable and inclusive access
· Caring for the parklands cultural and natural values,
· Creating a safe, connected and accessible parkland and managing the parkland in a sustainable and coordinated way.
The Draft Plan has been designed to provide a “foundation” planning document which upon adoption will set the strategic direction for enabling GSP to develop site specific master plans for four identified management areas within the parkland. These areas are highlighted in Image 1.0 below.

Image 1.0 Identified Management Areas Callan Park
In terms of the four identified management areas within the parkland, the Draft Plan specifies a range of management priorities associated with each management area. These priorities have been identified in Table 1.0 below, including Council officer comments in relation to impacts on current Council priorities and park management opportunities.
Table 1.0 Proposed Management Zones and GSP Management Priorities
|
Zone: Callan Point and Foreshore |
|
|
|
GSP Management Priority |
Impacts on any IWC Projects
|
Council Officer Comment /Action |
|
Create new recreational spaces and facilities for the community, including supporting infrastructure, as funding becomes available |
Callan Park Tidal Baths |
Council has led the development of this community facility. GSP has not included this project in the Draft Plan of Management. The Plan of management should be amended to include the Tidal Baths proposal as a future feature of the Callan Point and Foreshore zone.
Action: The Plan of management should be amended to include the Tidal Baths proposal as a future feature of the Callan Point and Foreshore zone. |
|
Pursue industry best practice in sporting ground management and operational maintenance and balance community utilisation with quality. |
Waterfront All Weather Sporting Surface. |
Council is committed to delivering an all-weather sporting surface on Waterfront Drive Sporting Ground to increase sporting and recreational capacity.
Action: The Plan of management should be amended to include the All Weather Surface development. |
|
Work with the Aboriginal community to protect Aboriginal cultural heritage sites on Callan Point |
N/A |
Comment: This is supported |
|
Investigate the opportunity for the provision of an Aboriginal community space at Callan Point |
N/A |
Comment: Repurposing of the Garry Owen Summer House to support native planting works in partnership with bush care volunteers is one option which could be pursued. |
|
Improve access to interpretive signage on Callan Point |
N/A |
Comment: This initiative should be considered as part of an overall wayfinding and interpretation strategy for the parkland. |
|
Consider improvements to the drainage line to retain water in the landscape, create habitat, improve water quality and create opportunities for water play |
N/A |
Comment: Stormwater management needs to be holistically considered given changing climate patterns and also known flooding in this area and tidal surges. |
|
Improve the foreshore to create opportunities for both habitat and people to engage with the water |
Callan Park Tidal Baths |
Comment: Council is project managing an important recreational access program which will support swimming in Iron Cove as well as an enhanced terrestrial marine habitat. |
|
Advocate to protect key views to the park from harbour settings |
No Impacts on IWC projects noted |
Comment: View lines from the Female Convalescent Cottages have been lost due to the lack of management of Fig trees on the upper slopes. View lines should be opened up to the foreshore to create filtered views and support future adaptive reuse of the cottages while maintaining habitat value. |
|
Retain the fig trees adjacent to the sports field and develop a plan for their ongoing management |
Support current and future sporting ground management |
Comment: Fig Tree maintenance along the edge of the parkland is important in terms of future management and maintenance operations associated the sporting ground management. |
|
Upgrade the Bay Run through Callan Park and remove public vehicles off Waterfront Drive |
Public Access to the Iron Cove Bay Run, Waterfront Drive Sporting Grounds and Tidal baths. |
Comment: Supported subject to the introduction of suitable wayfinding and no net loss of parking .
Action: The Plan of Management should be amended to include the condition that the Iron Cove Bay Run section of Waterfront Drive should not be closed to vehicles until new car parking is established and operational on Wharf Road. An additional condition should also be required in relation to the development of accessible pathway and suitable wayfinding signage from the car park to the Tidal Baths. |
|
Better connect Glover Street sporting ground to the broader park |
Use and Access by Community Sporting Clubs and the Refugee Welcome Centre (Wharf Road Community Centre) |
Action: The Plan of Management should be amended to include consideration of the development of a land bridge from the refugee Welcome Centre Building should be considered and funded by GSP up to the Glover Street Sporting Ground as part of any future master planning initiatives in this area. |
|
Improve pedestrian movement through Callan Point to protect cultural and natural heritage values |
Public Access to the Callan Point Swim Site |
Comment: An integrated planning approach in the development of the swim site which includes future community access arrangements is preferable. |
|
Coordinate management of the foreshore and the sea wall across agencies to best mitigate the impacts of climate change |
Ongoing Management of the Callan Point Swim Site. |
Comment: Coordinated management is supported on a cost neutral basis to Council with reference to facilities it manages on the foreshore edge within the parkland. |
|
Consider the future of leases at the end of the current lease term |
Council has license agreements for the following sites within the parkland: · Balmain Road Sporting Ground · Waterfront Drive Sporting Ground · Glover Street Sporting Ground · The Electrical Store (Men’s Shed) · The Refugee Welcome Centre (Wharf Road Community Centre) · Public Toilets Opposite the Writers Centre · An air raid shelter |
Action: The Plan of Management should be amended to include consideration of transferring maintenance of the Public Toilets to GSP for future management and maintenance as these service the parklands broadly. These facilities were established by Council prior to the creation of the GSP Trust.
Comment: Council should be consulted well in advance of any proposed changes to Council community management of sporting ground and community facilities on the site. |
|
Zone: Kirkbride and Parklands |
|
|
|
GSP Management Priority |
Impacts on any IWC Projects
|
Council Officer Comment |
|
Create more open space through the selective removal of appropriate buildings |
No Impacts on IWC projects identified |
Comment: Supported with the prerequisite that existing community stakeholders are not displaced without being offered alternative and fit for purpose accommodation within the parklands. |
|
Develop a plan for film and production at Callan Park balancing industry needs with other uses |
No Impacts on IWC projects identified |
Comment: Council supports creative arts and creative industries having a presence within the parklands. |
|
Identify a long-term vision for the Kirkbride buildings and convalescent cottages and determine appropriate uses |
No Impacts on IWC projects noted |
Comment: Adoptive reuse is supported as a high priority. |
|
Restore and interpret the Kirkbride buildings and surrounds including the therapy gardens and stables
|
No Impacts on IWC projects identified |
Comment: Supported through the development of a parkwide interpretation and wayfinding strategy . |
|
Restore the convalescent cottages |
No Impacts on IWC projects identified |
Comment: Supported |
|
Look to reinstate views of the Kirkbride buildings from key surrounding settings through careful tree maintenance |
No Impacts on IWC projects identified |
Comment: Supported |
|
Naturalise and transform some mown areas and spaces around trees and rock outcrops into diverse groundcovers, shrubs and natural spaces, with stag trees preserved for habitat |
No Impacts on IWC projects identified |
Comment: Supported |
|
Trial internal road closures within this management area to test the impact of removing hardstand for future parkland |
No Impacts on IWC projects identified |
Comment: Supported |
|
Consider how to connect new areas of open space created through building demolition to adjacent spaces |
No Impacts on IWC projects identified |
Comment: Supported through masterplanning for each precinct. |
|
Resolve the future of the Kirkbride buildings and the convalescent cottages |
No Impacts on IWC projects identified |
Comment: Supported subject to a future adaptive reuse being consistent with the objectives of the Callan Park Act 2002. |
|
Secure investment needed for restoration of the Kirkbride buildings and convalescent cottages |
No Impacts on IWC projects identified |
Comment: Supported subject to a future adaptive reuse being consistent with the objectives of the Callan Park Act 2002. |
|
Maintain active health-related services and training |
No Impacts on IWC projects identified |
Comment: Supported |
|
Investigate opportunities for broader public use of facilities |
No Impacts on IWC projects identified |
Comment: Supported |
|
Consider the relationship between Broughton Hall and Gardens and the broader parkland in the long term |
No Impacts on IWC projects identified |
Comment: Supported |
|
Investigate opportunities for broader public use of facilities |
No Impacts on IWC projects identified |
Comment: Supported |
Strategic Direction Opportunities and Management Priorities
Within the context of the Draft Foundation Plan of management, GSP has proposed a management framework for the parklands which is based on four strategic directions. Each strategic direction contains a series of objectives and management priorities. These objectives and priorities are reviewed in Table 1.1. A Council officer comment is provided in relation to any identified community impacts.
Table 1.1 Strategic Direction Opportunities and Management Priorities
|
GSP Strategic Direction 1
|
Promote equitable, inclusive and respectful uses
|
|
GSP Objective |
Plan for and facilitate a range of diverse, flexible, shared, multipurpose recreation opportunities and spaces for the community
Support the ongoing provision of health-related services
Prepare a strategy for the removal, restoration and future use of buildings and begin implementation
Create spaces that can be used for multiple purposes and are responsive to community need.
Pursue more arts, cultural and creative uses
|
|
GSP Management Priority |
Council officer Comment |
|
Prepare master plans that consider opportunities and strategies for new and renewed spaces
|
A masterplanning framework is supported. Cost plans should be developed to support each master plan to enable strategic consideration of parkland priorities in line with financial resourcing and opportunities for grant applications.
|
|
Encourage and facilitate opportunities for informal recreation by providing amenities such as picnic tables, seating, bins and drinking fountains
|
Opportunities for informal recreation are supported with the inclusion of an accessibility requirement that the future park master planning includes consideration and planning for accessibility for all.
|
|
Determine which buildings should be removed and obtain funding for demolition
|
Retention of Government health facilities and the NGO precinct being retained within the parkland estate is supported. Where feasible these services could be relocated to adaptively restored heritage buildings within the parkland estate. These service providers provide essential mental health facilities for the community as a whole and are intrinsically linked to the heritage and history of the parkland estate and its evolution as a modern wellness sanctuary. The presence of Health Service and training providers within the parkland also have direct economic benefits to the local Rozelle community.
|
|
Develop a plan for activation and adaptive re-use of retained buildings, guided by the principles for leasing and licensing in Appendix B, that considers how best to match tenants to buildings and spaces
|
Removal of identified intrusive buildings is supported in accordance with the Tanner and Associates Conservation Management Plan.
|
|
Identify future spaces for events and activations of an appropriate scale and prepare a management framework to support their operation 6. Encourage and increase the provision of, and actively manage arts, cultural and creative uses 7. Continue to deliver education programs and investigate expansion opportunities
|
Community events in the parklands in including live music entertainment are a valued part of the parklands past. Their return is strongly encouraged to support activation and community value of the parklands. Event opportunities should be identified in each of the management precincts and should also include the opportunity for Live music events and cultural events which support the community arts. An approved Events Policy for the parklands could be considered to provide clear transparency on the type and scale of events which will be permissible within the parklands.
|
|
Identify future spaces for events and activations of an appropriate scale and prepare a management framework to support their operation
|
The activation of the parklands and its facilities through the support of creative arts, cultural and creative uses is strongly supported. |
|
Strategic Direction 2
|
Understand and care for the park’s natural and cultural values |
|
GSP Objective |
Recognise Aboriginal archaeological potential and significance, Aboriginal culture and First Nations people’s ongoing relationship with the park
Recognise archaeological potential and significance, restore heritage items and celebrate the park’s rich histories and stories
Improve the quality of bushland and waterways, create additional habitat for wildlife and connect to adjoining blue-green corridors
Improve connections with water within the park and to Iron Cove
|
|
GSP Management Priority |
Council officer Comment |
|
Increase recognition of Aboriginal cultural heritage in the park Prepare a First Nations strategy
|
Supported |
|
Update the conservation management plan to consider Aboriginal heritage and cultural landscape settings
|
Supported
|
|
Prepare a park-wide interpretation strategy
|
Supported-a consistent wayfinding strategy is also required for the park as whole to support parkland access, connectively and character.
|
|
Continue to restore bushland, improve habitat and biodiversity and provide connections to adjoining blue-green corridors
|
Supported
|
|
Develop and implement a tree management plan that considers increasing canopy cover in a manner sensitive to landscape settings
|
Supported
|
|
Consider opportunities to Retain water in the landscape for habitat and cooling
|
Linkages to water for water based recreational opportunities also need to be recognised, notably Iron Cove. Council is developing water-based recreational plans for this area including the Callan Park Tidal Baths. Council’s master plan for the tidal baths should be included in any future foreshore master plan for the Callan point and Foreshore area.
|
|
Collaborate with other government agencies including the Botanic Gardens of Sydney to share knowledge on the best outcomes for environmental values
|
Supported in principle, however, it is noted that this lacks any demonstrated measurable outcomes.
|
|
Strategic Direction 3
|
Create a safe, accessible and connected park |
|
GSP Objective |
Prioritise pedestrians, reduce cars in the park and reduce conflict between different modes of transport
Improve internal and external pedestrian and cycle connections
Improve how people find their way around the park Improve safety and perceptions of safety by removing unused buildings with consideration of heritage context and encouraging park life
|
|
GSP Management Priority |
Council officer Comment |
|
Finalise and implement the first stages of the Access, Movement and Parking Strategy
|
Supported - this proposal will prioritise pedestrian use over car movements within a regional parkland environment. Lighting improvements should be a key priority to support this objective. Traffic Management within Callan Park requires attention to ensure that safety of pedestrians, cyclists and motorists is addressed.
|
|
Establish a main one-way vehicular loop through the park
|
Supported - the current traffic management arrangements within the park are considered substandard and offer little to facilitate the creation of a self-regulating, slow speed environment that is expected within an urbanised parkland setting. There is a lack of pedestrian pathways, cycling facilities and traffic calming devices to make the park a safe and attractive environment for active transport users.
|
|
Implement a restricted parking area scheme
|
It is noted that Callan Park supports a range of uses from key workers in the Health and NGO precincts through to community and recreation uses, including regular sporting and community events. The NSW Writers Centre is also a major stakeholder which is located centrally within the parklands. Maintenance access to the parklands for parkland service vehicles is an important element in the mix of traffic uses which the parkland experiences. Supporting a well-connected parkland connects people to spaces and should be designed considering accessibility principles around access for all abilities within the scheme
|
|
Plan and build a network of pedestrian paths between key destinations as part of future master plans
|
Supported
|
|
Improve active transport connections between Callan Park and the surrounding streets
|
Supported - there is a lack of cycling support facilities in the parklands, and this should be addressed as part of the precinct master plans for each area.
|
|
Develop a clear and consistent approach to wayfinding and signage
|
Supported – a consistent and defined wayfinding and signage strategy is required for the parklands as a whole.
|
|
Advocate for improved and more diverse public transport connections to the park in partnership with Inner West Council
|
Supported - Council is actively working with the NSW Government in support of sustainable transport options which connect to the Iron Bay Run and through to the Rozelle Parklands. Council is also investing significantly in the development of sustainable transport options including the Iron Cove Bay Run and the Lilyfield Road cycleway.
|
|
Provide lighting in key activity areas |
A lighting and wayfinding strategy should be integrated in terms of its development and implementation in conjunction with the delivery of the Traffic and Access, Movement and Parking Strategy
|
|
Strategic Direction 4
|
Manage the park in a sustainable and coordinated way |
|
GSP Objective |
Consolidate management and governance of Callan Park
Develop partnerships and processes for working with government and nongovernment organisations
Pursue additional funding and investment • Incorporate and implement sustainability principles and practices
Deliver social benefit through activation, leasing and management opportunities Incorporate and implement environmental sustainability principles to reduce impacts, mitigate climate risks and contribute to the circular economy
|
|
GSP Management Priority |
Council officer Comment |
|
Establish a coordinated management framework to shape the best outcomes for the community, government and stakeholders
|
Supported - areas of the parkland are currently managed by the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces (Greater Sydney parklands) and NSW Health with management divided according to precincts. 38 ha of Callan Park is managed by the Centennial Park and Moore Park Trust (CPMPT) under the guidance of the Callan Park (Special Provisions) Act 2002. The remaining area is managed by NSW Health.
|
|
Develop and implement processes for working with other government and non-government organisations
|
Council continues to advocate that one Government agency should manage the parkland as a whole. This would provide governance clarity for all stakeholders as well as provide unity of management and clarity of governance. Inner West Council must however retain its responsibility as the planning consent authority for the parklands. Council notes that GSP and NSW Health as land managers of the site must provide owners consent for any proposed development within the parkland.
|
|
Work with the not-for-profit and social enterprise sectors to better understand opportunities for these sectors within Callan Park
|
Changes in legislation which would support minor commercial elements including cafes and filming permits are supported. The development of a financial sustainability model for Callan Park is advocated. Opportunities for commercial activities within the parkland must be balanced with the need to protect the fabric of the parklands, not only its special landscape characteristics but also the significant heritage elements and buildings which the parkland supports. The Plan of Management should identify the cultural and naturals values of the parkland and include a long-term financial plan of how these values can be preserved and enhanced for future generations of park users.
|
|
Expand volunteering beyond bush care for social, heritage and health purposes
|
Supported-noting that there is no measurable output in the Plan of Management stipulated.
|
|
Identify and secure alternative funding streams including NSW and Australian government grant programs and philanthropic opportunities
|
Supported - funding streams which assist in the preservation and ongoing life of the park are supported. It is recommended that consideration be given to the establishment of a “Callan Park Foundation Program” to support ongoing fundraising, sponsorship and park donations which can be utilised to fund park improvements shortlisted by the Callan Park Trust into the future.
|
|
Pursue appropriate revenue-generating opportunities to support park-life, restoration and ongoing maintenance, including a cafe and appropriately scaled arts and cultural events
|
Supported – as per comment above
|
|
Mitigate heat by maintaining green, thriving sports fields, open space and gardens through smart irrigation, water conservation and soil improvements
|
Consideration needs to be given for the support of alternative technologies in terms of sporting facilities to support population growth and the growing demand for access to quality sporting surfaces. This needs to include the opportunity for access to all weather surfaces.
|
|
Implement management actions to reduce risks of climate change impacts to Callan Park
|
Supported - requires measurable actions.
|
|
Implement ways to minimise waste, reduce our environmental impact and contribute to the circular economy |
Supported - requires measurable actions which could be centered around adaptive reuse of vacant buildings within the parkland. |
Acknowledgement of Council Investment
The Draft Plan omits any reference to Council’s significant investments which have been made over the last decade in terms of community recreation and wellness initiatives. This includes
· $2.5 million dollars investment in activating the Balmain Road, Glover Street and Waterfront Sporting Grounds (with recurrence costs of $150,000 annually for maintenance)
· Activation and restoration of the B504 (Refugee Welcome Center) - approximately $500,000
· Activation and restoration of the B696 (WC Building Balmain Road) - approximately $150,000
· Activation and community repurposing of the former Electrical Store B703-Callan Park Men’s Shed – approximately $41,000
· Activation and community repurposing of B498 (former air raid shelter) for community sporting storage needs (Water Front Drive Sporting Ground) – Approximately $145,000
· Building 497 – Repatriation Ward-Investment of $1.2m for future community use by Balmain District Football Club.
· Securing Grant funding for restoration of the Douglas Grant memorial $100,000
· Proposed future investment of $3.8million in the Callan Park Tidal Baths
· Proposed future investment of in all-weather surfaces at Waterfront Drive and Balmain Road of $8 million.
Council’s involvement is significant in terms of ongoing community investment in a regionally significant state government owned asset.
Draft Callan Park Access Movement and Parking Strategy
The Draft Plan includes a Draft Callan Park Access Movement and Parking Strategy (Attachment 2). The strategy favours pedestrian movement over that of cars and is focused on the transformation of the parkland to reflect its changing use from that of a previous hospital site to urban parkland setting. The need for an integrated traffic management plan for the parkland was advocated as part of Council’s 2024 submission. Council highlighted the fact that in its current format Callan Park is dominated by roads that transect the park and provide little connection with the key landscape features. Modern parklands place the movement of pedestrians and cyclists as a key overarching principle with car and service vehicle access limited to key drop off and parking points which support overall use of the park as a whole. The current road network as it currently stands is intrusive to the use of the site as a parkland.
The proposed strategy identifies a range of key challenges in terms of impacts on current parkland use and access including:
· the presence of a narrow road network which favors cars over pedestrians
· traffic speed and volume (especially in the conflict zone of the Waterfront and the Iron Cove Bay Run)
· limited public transport connectivity
· lack of parking management, poor signage wayfinding and directional clarity.
Key Changes which are proposed to the existing access routes within the parkland are highlighted in Figure 1.1.

Fig 1.1 GSP Strategy for Access, Movement and Parking
Strategy Themes & Principles
1. Safety and Circulation
A simplified traffic circulation system is proposed to replace the current road network through the development of a main one-way vehicular loop, reducing conflict points and improving legibility. This is a similar system to that of Centennial Parklands. Foreshore access will be restricted to pedestrians, cyclists, and operational vehicles to enhance safety. A consistent 20km/h speed limit will be implemented and strategically located drop-off zones will support accessibility. Selected roads may be temporarily closed to test their impact on circulation and user experience.
2. Car Parking
Informal parking will be eliminated to protect parkland aesthetics and safety. Existing hardstand areas will be optimised, and on-street parking will be introduced selectively. Hardstand areas will be rationalised to preserve open space, and new parking areas will be considered carefully to comply with the Callan Park (Special Provisions) Act 2002. The Wharf Road car park and timed parking on Balmain Road are proposed, along with a restricted parking area scheme. Dedicated building parking will be removed, except for accessible
spaces.
Parking areas within the parkland will be limited to:
· Wharf Road (New Proposed Car Parking area to replace the Waterfront Car Park)
· Existing NSW Ambulance Car Park location off Balmain Road
· Existing CEWD Car Park -Located to the east of the Cecily Street Gates
· Existing NSW Health Car Park (Cottage Way/Church Street Link)
3. Parkland Access and Connections
A legible and accessible pedestrian path network is proposed to connect key destinations. External connections to pedestrian and cycle networks will be enhanced, including the Iron Cove Bay Run link. Gateway treatments will signal entry into the park, and a consistent signage and wayfinding system will be implemented. Advocacy for improved public and active transport options will support sustainable access.
Council Officer Comments
The new car parking and loop road arrangements are supported by Council officers as the proposal will enhance future open space provision within the parkland as well as improving the overall visitor experience by prioritising pedestrian access and safety over that of vehicles. Great parklands provide respite from urbanised life, they also provide access to quality open space opportunities. In this respect, the proposed future parking arrangements address these needs by providing a balanced approach to visitor experience needs. The Iron Cove Bay Run is proposed to be made into a car free zone uniting this area with the rest of the 7km Iron Cove Bay Run as a pedestrian safe zone. This is also important given the regional significance of the Iron Cove Bay run as a regionally recognised recreational trail. This should however be predicated with a proposed amendment to the Plan of Management which should include a conditional requirement that the Iron Cove Bay Run section of Waterfront Drive should not be closed to vehicles until new car parking is established and operational on Wharf Road. An additional condition should also be required in relation to the development of accessible pathway and suitable wayfinding signage from the car park to the Tidal Baths.
Next Steps
It is recommended that Council support the lodgment of this report as a written submission by Council in relation to the Draft Plan of Management for Callan Park along with the Draft Access, Movement and Parking Strategy.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
|
1.⇩ |
Callan Park Draft Foundation Plan of Management |
|
2.⇩ |
Draft Callan Park Access and Traffic Management Plan |
|
3.⇩ |
IWC Submission Preparation of Draft Plan of Management Callan Park 2024 |
|
Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Kids Play/Kids Say - Strategic Engagement Framework for Playground Development and Upgrades
Prepared By: Aaron Callaghan - Parks and Public Domain Planning Manager
Authorised By: Ryann Midei - Director Property and Major Projects
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council endorse the implementation of the Kids Play/Kids Say Engagement Framework detailed in this report for future district level playground upgrades.
|
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report addresses a Council resolution calling for increased community engagement, specifically focused on engaging local schools in the design and upgrade of playgrounds.
It is recommended that Council focus on the opportunity for engagement for district level parks.
The proposed engagement framework involves workshop-based engagement being held within local schools and focused on engagement sessions with year one, year three and year five to six with feedback captured and divided by class (age range). This feedback will focus on what children want to see in their play spaces and will include visual engagement in terms of children’s drawings to support engagement feedback.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 17 June 2025 meeting, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council formalises the process of engaging with local preschools and primary schools by establishing a Kids Play / Kids Say Community Engagement Program to gather feedback on the design and upgrade of playgrounds. The program may draw on consultation practices used in the Inclusive Playgrounds engagement process and include:
a) Interactive sessions conducted at local preschools and primary schools;
b) Onsite interactive sessions at playground locations; and
c) Invitations for schools to participate in the formal opening of newly upgraded playgrounds.
2. That Council provides a report to the September 2025 Council Meeting outlining how the Kids Play / Kids Say program will operate, including how children will participate, the level of input they will have, and the criteria for engagement (e.g. playground size).
DISCUSSION
From these playgrounds, twenty two have been identified within a district level facility. This being the catchment that provides for organised formal sport and the inclusion of substantial recreation opportunities, including larger playgrounds and pockets of natural space. These parkland areas are typically between 5ha to 15ha in size and within 2 kilometres or a five-minute drive of residential homes and major schools. They are also accessed by local schools for recreation and play in lieu of educational open space.
For the purposes of a future school-based engagement for playground upgrades which will involve a Kids Play/Kids Say Program, it is recommended that Council focus on the opportunity for engagement for district level parks and open spaces.
Proposed Engagement Framework-Kids Play/Kids Say
It is recognised that as children develop and grow, so do their play and physical exercise needs and preferences. To achieve meaningful engagement and play space design outcomes which provide play value for a range of age groups, targeted engagement is proposed to be undertaken with school children between the ages of 5-12 years.
The proposed engagement framework involves workshop-based engagement being held within local schools and focused on engagement sessions with year one, year three and year five to six with feedback captured and divided by class (age range). This feedback will focus on what children want to see in their play spaces and will include visual engagement in terms of children’s drawings to support engagement feedback.
Schools located near a proposed park or playground upgrade will be identified and encouraged to participate in design development. Schools which participate in the engagement process can also be invited to the future playground opening.
This is consistent with engagement being undertaken as part of the Inclusive Playgrounds program.
Table 1.0 below, details park areas which have district level play spaces and identifies primary schools which are located in close proximity to those parks.
Table 1.0 District Level Play Spaces
|
Ward Area |
Primary Schools |
|
|
Algie Park |
Leichhardt |
Haberfield Public School and St Joan of Arc Catholic School |
|
Ashfield Park |
Ashfield |
As above |
|
Birchgrove Park |
Balmain |
Birchgrove Public School |
|
Camdenville Park |
Leichhardt |
Camdenville Public School |
|
Camperdown Park |
Stanmore |
Bridge Road Education School and St Michaels Catholic Primary School |
|
Centenary Reserve |
Ashfield |
Ashfield Public School |
|
Cohen Park |
Leichhardt |
Annandale North Public School, Annandale Public School |
|
Easton Park |
Balmain |
Orange Grove Public School |
|
Hammond Park |
Ashfield |
Ashfield Public School |
|
King George Park |
Balmain |
Rozelle Public School |
|
Lambert Park |
Leichhardt |
Leichhardt Public School and St Fiacres catholic Primary School. |
|
Leichhardt Park - Mary Street Playground |
Balmain |
Orange Grove Public School |
|
Leichhardt Park –Blue Hippo Playground |
Balmain |
Orange Grove Public School |
|
Mackey Park |
Marrickville |
Wilkins Public School |
|
Marrickville Park |
Marrickville |
Wilkins Public School |
|
Petersham Park |
Stanmore |
Petersham Public School |
|
Pratten Park |
Ashfield |
Ashfield Public School |
|
Rozelle Parklands |
Balmain |
Rozelle Public School |
|
Richard Murden Reserve |
Leichhardt |
St Joan of Arc Catholic Primary School |
|
Steel Park |
Marrickville |
Ferncourt Public School |
|
Tempe Reserve |
Marrickville |
Tempe Public School |
|
Yeo Park |
Ashfield |
Ashfield Public School. |
|
*Gladstone Park |
Balmain |
Balmain Public School and Father John Therry School |
|
*Weekley Park |
Stanmore |
St Michaels Catholic Primary School |
*These two park area are not district level parks but do have schools residing adjacent to them which rely on access and use for their physical education curriculum.
Play Space Strategy and Future Play Space Upgrades.
The development of an LGA wide Play Space Strategy “Your Space to Play” is scheduled to be developed by Council in 2026. This play based space strategy will be focused on the provision and range of play spaces, identifying gaps in provision as well as developing priority actions for play space improvements. This will include a priority action table for future playground upgrades based on condition and use. The strategy will be focused on playgrounds, outdoor fitness stations and Wheel based sports (Skate, Scooter, BMX, Junior Cycling and Roller Blade facilities), nature play facilities and teenzones (basketball, handball pickleball, netball and approved teenager hangout spaces). The Strategy will also identify the long-term costs associated with any new proposals for play spaces within parks (or the public domain) and costs associated with the periodic refurbishment of existing play areas.
This will drive which district level parks will contain works subject to the new engagement framework in the near future.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There will be a cost associated with any external design consultant who is engaged to undertake the playground design to participate in the engagement. This cost will be absorbed into project funding.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Membership of Catchment Groups
Prepared By: Luke Murtas - Senior Manager Environment and Sustainability
Authorised By: Simone Plummer - Director Planning
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council writes to the Sydney Coastal Councils Group to formally resign Council’s membership of the group.
|
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
1: An ecologically sustainable Inner West 5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Council is a member of three regional catchment groups – the Cooks River Alliance, the Parramatta River Catchment Group and the Sydney Coastal Councils Group. The work of the three groups often overlaps and Council pays three sets of membership fees as well as providing significant occasional project funding and in-kind resourcing.
Of the three groups, the Sydney Coastal Councils Group is the most focussed on advocacy and policy, as opposed to active program delivery that is the focus of the other two. Its current major work excludes the Inner West and neighbouring councils. It is becoming increasing difficult to demonstrate the direct value to the Inner West community derived from membership in the Coastal Councils Group, as compared to the more locally visible and practical activities undertaken by the Parramatta River Catchment Group and the Cooks River Alliance.
The historic contribution of the Coastal Councils Group is acknowledged. However, projects within the Inner West area are principally undertaken by the Parramatta River Catchment Group and the Cooks River Alliance. Having regard to these factors, best value for money for Inner West residents, and the need to reduce duplication of work between all three groups, this report recommends resigning Council’s membership of the Sydney Coastal Council Group to better target staff resourcing and reduce costs in the environment and catchment management area of Council’s operations.
BACKGROUND
Membership of regional partnerships, especially those associated with catchment planning, goes toward the achievement of Council’s Community Strategic Plan objectives in relation to ecology, stormwater management and good governance, especially:
· Healthy Waterways (CSP Outcome 1.3)
· Collaboration and valued partnerships (CSP Outcome 5.4), and
· Sustainable development (CSP Outcome 2.1)
Council actively contributes to each of our regional partner organisations, through membership fees the in-kind commitment of staff time and Councillor participation on management committees. However, the “return” to Council in terms of value that they can demonstrate to our residents varies between the organisations.
DISCUSSION
Inner West Council is a member of three regional catchment groups:
· the Cooks River Alliance (‘CRA’) Who We Are - Cooks River Alliance
· the Parramatta River Catchment Group (‘PRCG’),
https://www.ourlivingriver.com.au/about-us/prcg-overview/
· the Sydney Coastal Councils Group (‘SCCG’), which includes some, but not all Sydney councils which are within the “coastal zone” About the Sydney Coastal Councils Group (SCCG)
Inner West has been a long-standing member (through Leichhardt) of the SCCG, which was established in 1989. Recently, the SCCG has focussed its principal activity on the “Outer Harbour” area where the group has funding for a Coastal Management Plan for LGAs including Northern Beaches, Mosman, Woollahra and Waverley.
The table below provides a membership analysis of the of the 3 inner Sydney catchment groups:
|
Inner Sydney catchment groups – Council membership analysis |
|
|
Cooks River Alliance |
Bayside, Canterbury-Bankstown, Inner West, Strathfield |
|
Parramatta River Catchment Group |
Blacktown, Burwood, Canada Bay, Canterbury-Bankstown, Cumberland, Inner West, Parramatta, Ryde, Strathfield |
|
Sydney Coastal Councils |
Bayside, Inner West, Northern Beaches, North Sydney, Randwick, Sutherland Shire, Waverley, Willoughby, Woollahra |
|
Multiple memberships |
|
|
Cooks River and Parramatta River |
Canterbury-Bankstown, Inner West, Strathfield |
|
Cooks River and Sydney Coastal Councils |
Bayside, Inner West |
|
Parramatta River and Sydney Coastal Councils |
Inner West |
|
Cooks River, Parramatta River and Sydney Coastal Councils |
Inner West |
Membership commitment generally entails:
· Membership fees, which covers staff and planned project costs
· Ad-hoc project opportunities including calls for funding and in-kind support
· Commitment of in-kind staff time to working groups and technical committees
· Commitment of Councillors and senior staff time to management committees
A brief summary comparison of the groups is provided below, with a specific emphasis on issues that are of value or relevance to the Inner West community
|
|
PRCG |
Cooks River |
SCCG |
|
Membership cost |
$33,420 (funded from stormwater levy) |
$80,351 (funded from stormwater levy) |
$44,372 (funded from general revenue) |
|
Staff |
5 |
4 |
3 |
|
Major Activities |
Swim sites, Get the Site Right, Riverkeeper, masterplan, CMP, Riverfest, WSUD, litter, bank naturalisation, grants, community engagement, advocacy |
CMP and master plan, waterway health, recreation, biodiversity, community engagement, litter, annual Wurridjul festival, grants, campaigns |
Advocacy, research, Outer Harbour CMP, pilot programs, facilitate capacity building and grant opportunities for members |
|
Context |
Based at IWC, Indigenous focus, multidisciplinary team, broad structure keeps membership high and fees low, good reputation. Brand and “Mission” well established – river health linked to swimming |
Based at CBC, highly collaborative and community-focused, effective at progressing grant and CMP programs. Refreshed brand and team |
Less project-focused, engaged at Departmental and ministerial level in advocacy and policy submissions, planning and research. Well-developed technical and management committees |
|
Risk area |
Size of catchment – relevance of programs in (say) Blacktown may not translate to open harbour areas like Inner West |
Water quality and health of the Cooks, ownership of hard/ canal assets a challenge |
Difficult to demonstrate a direct link to deliverables for residents – CMP does not cover LGA and others do the on-ground work |
The work of all three groups is resourced principally from the Urban Ecology team, which includes a specialist Catchments officer. Catchments work is inter-disciplinary and specialist staff from stormwater and engineering provide expertise to projects that the groups undertake, and programs such as “Get the Site Right” are resourced by Council’s Regulatory team.
Council is the host of the PRCG for five years until July 2029, and accommodates 5 staff as well as providing support for the group to launch programs. An Inner West Councillor previously served as the long-term Chair of the PRCG and another currently serves as the Deputy Chair.
The Inner West LGA is principally within the Parramatta River and Cooks River catchments where advocacy, catchment planning, and river projects are undertaken by the Parramatta River Catchment Group and the Cooks River Alliance. The eastern edge of the LGA is described as being within the Sydney Harbour Catchment, which is covered by the SCCG. This includes land not controlled by Council including White Bay and Rozelle Bay, as well as Ballast Point.
Within the East Balmain area, Parramatta River Group projects such as the Mort Bay Swim Site are the most prominent river activations for our local community, and Council’s own local litter Strategy “Inner West Litter Less” forms the basis for litter prevention in local parks and waterfront reserves. Although the SCCG has historically played a significant role in catchment planning for the north-eastern part of the LGA, its on-ground visibility and role in the Inner West is diminishing.

Figure 2: Water / Land interface for each of the three groups. The demarcation between PRCG and SCCG is flexible.
At the Council meeting held on 23 June 2020, Council resolved the following:
1. Any proposal to leave or to join an external Local, Regional or State-wide Committee or Organisation e.g. Local Government NSW, SSROC and SCCG must come to Council for endorsement;
2. The membership of Inner West Council in the Sydney Coastal Councils Group be retained and renewed for 2020/21 financial year; and
3. All current regional and state memberships be renewed.
Sydney Coastal Councils Group
The Inner West has participated in the Sydney Coastal Councils Group for more than 20 years. The group has historically been a key voice for issues affecting Sydney Harbour and the driver of the catchment planning for the harbour. A map showing the current membership of the SCCG is provided below.

Figure 3: Sydney Coastal Councils Group member Councils
The emphasis of the SCCG has increasingly become focused on advocacy and research, which while of high quality is difficult to demonstrate value directly to our community. The most recent on-ground project that the group has prepared in the Inner West was a proposal for a Coastal Adaptation Plan under the Disaster Ready Fund, which Inner West had committed to resourcing, however this was eventually rejected by the NSW State Government.
The SCCG’s legacy project is the Greater Sydney Harbour Coastal Management Plan (‘CMP’) which involved significant resourcing commitments by members over a number of years. However, the group has not been able to successfully secure ongoing funding or progress the whole-of-harbour CMP and has now amending its model to one which only includes projects for an “Outer Harbour” scope, meaning the projects are not directly within or benefitting the Inner West. This CMP now includes Councils such as Northern Beaches and Waverley but not Inner West or its neighbours such as Canterbury, Canada Bay or Ryde, despite these councils having land in the coastal zone.
As a result, the member Councils of the Parramatta River Catchment Group, who had contributed to the first two stages of the Greater Sydney Harbour CMP, have now been excluded from the Sydney Harbour CMP, which is the main project of the SCCG. These Councils have progressed a plan to undertake a CMP for the Parramatta and Lane Cove River catchment.
In addition, there is a substantial overlap between work done by the SCCG and the other catchment groups. An example of this is the Greater Sydney Harbour litter plan where the SCCG and PRCG are working together – meaning that Council’s membership fees, in-kind and other support are being contributed to two organisations.
The draft SCCG Strategic Plan includes new steps such as “Explore opportunities to build member Councils’ capacity to pursue WSUD drawing on current and previous National and State capacity building programs and in possible partnership with other organisations”. At present, Inner West hosts the PRCG, which has a dedicated WSUD program including an officer based at Petersham who undertakes this work.
Further, the Parramatta Riverkeeper works closely with landcare, local bushcare and citizen science groups, including in Balmain and Annandale which are technically in the “Sydney Harbour Catchment”. Throughout the southern and eastern parts of the LGA, the Cooks River Alliance works closely with community groups in bushcare and recreation. Both the PRCG and CRA strongly promote “Get the Site Right” across the Inner West. While the SCCG promotes the program it does not provide local content. Inner West residents are highly engaged and Council derives best value from the groups which work directly with our community in this space.
As the Inner West is not included in the SCCG’s major current project, as well as the duplication or overlap of some programs, and in light of the more visible comparative value to our community of the other two catchment groups, it is recommended that Council resigns Inner West’s membership of the SCCG.
In the SCCG’s Constitution, the relevant provision is as follows:
(9.1) A Member may resign from membership of the Association by giving at least 6 months’ notice in writing of the Member's intention to resign.
Internal Consultation with Stakeholders
Council’s Ecology team note the ongoing challenges associated with funding membership of the SCCG without tangible outcomes to show to our community. Program overlap with other catchment groups was noted as a concern, particularly in areas such as community engagement on river health and programs such as Get the Site Right.
Council’s Stormwater team noted that Leichhardt Council was an early member of the SCCG and that there have been past benefits associated with the research and advocacy work of the group.
Conclusion
The ongoing value of SCCG to its other, outer harbour member councils is recognised. However more recently and given its current project plan the SCCG remains focused on outer harbour LGAs. The PRCG and CRA are active and encourage the highly engaged inner west community. In light of the above, it is recommended that Council writes to the Sydney Coastal Councils Group to formally resign Council’s membership of the group.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
Should the Council endorse the recommendation to resign Council’s membership of the Sydney Costal Councils Group, an annual saving of $44,372.01 to general revenue (increasing each subsequent year) would result.
Nil.
|
Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: FOGO contamination and microplastics including fruit stickers
Prepared By: Helen Bradley - Manager Resource Recovery Planning
Authorised By: Simone Plummer - Director Planning
|
1. That Council include messaging to remove fruit stickers to avoid contaminating FOGO via Inner West channels including: a) School and Early Learning Centre FOGO education materials; b) FOGO webpage; c) Council e-news and printed newsletters; and d) social media.
2. That Council encourage local producers and suppliers of compostable bin liners to incorporate messaging to remove fruit stickers from 2026 onwards.
3. That Council write to the Minister for the Environment, seeking support for the design standard for compostable fruit stickers or alternatives (such as lasering) to be fast-tracked from the proposed 2030 timeframe.
4. That Council promote mandated NSW and Federal bans (for example, soy sauce “fish” and fruit stickers) as part of its campaigns on plastics and waste reduction.
|
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
1: An ecologically sustainable Inner West |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Inner West Council FOGO is of very high quality and there are a number of strategies in place to ensure this going forward. Nevertheless the experience of other FOGO adopters is that microplastics and plastic fruit stickers are known FOGO contaminates. Inner West Council’s approach is to encourage residents to remove fruit stickers. Council’s FOGO processor also has systems to remove contamination and sift out fruit stickers and contaminants from finished compost to avoid contaminating agricultural land.
Council continues to embed FOGO and will implement messaging around removal of fruit stickers in digital and printed FOGO communications.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 20 May 2025, Council resolved the following in part:
3. That Council reports back to Council by October 2025 on:
a) ways council is managing polluting microplastics, including plastic produce stickers, and any other opportunities to minimize or eliminate them in our waste streams; and
b) data and information on the types of contaminants in councils FOGO waste stream and strategies to eliminate them as council continues to embed FOGO.
This report addresses the issues identified in the above resolution.
DISCUSSION
At the start of 2025, New South Wales banned single-use plastic items integrated into food and drink packaging, including attached spoons, straws, and EPS cups for dry noodles.
At the local level, Council is able to influence consumer responses to plastics though community engagement and education, as well as advocate for extended producer responsibility at the point of sale.
Managing plastics and microplastics in waste
In 2024, the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) published Australian Plastics Flows and Fates Study. It identified that 5.62 billion plastic labels are picked off fruit and vegetables in Australia adding 110 tonnes to landfill annually.
Messaging has been developed to encourage our community to remove (and dispose of) plastic food coverings and fruit stickers. This includes a reminder on the FOGO webpage to remove fruit stickers, and investigation of the inclusion of a reminder on other Council FOGO materials.
Council-run Early Learning Centres now have FOGO, with a schools package ready to be launched. Staff have been trained on FOGO, including what can and cannot go into the bin, and the removal of fruit stickers. Signage reinforces messaging and the ‘Fruit Sticker’ poster was developed and provided to create an interactive reminder to remove fruit stickers.
Images 1 and 2: FOGO signage Schools fruit sticker poster
Council’s bin tagging and engagement program is in its second year. Waste Busters have identified that non-compostable bags were one of the top three contaminants during bin inspections, as well as food wrapped in plastic, and other soft plastic materials.
Waste Busters gave households tailored feedback to educate about items that do not belong in the FOGO bin. 86% of households showed improvement on their second inspection, demonstrating that Council’s education campaign directly reduces contamination. This is helping to reduce microplastic and bulk plastic contaminants over time.
Non-compostable plastics that can break down into smaller fragments (e.g. plastic and biodegradables), are rejected at the kerbside by crews if visible when opening the lid to empty bins and reported to Waste Busters for ongoing, direct engagement with residents.
In a broader context, the NSW Government has also identified fruit stickers in the NSW Plastics Plan as a litter item of concern. However Inner West litter audits identified 1.23 pieces of fruit stickers per linear kilometre of area surveyed - suggesting they are not currently a locally significant litter concern.
These items remain prevalent in Inner West landfill waste and because of their small size, can wash into local waterways. Inner West Gross Pollutant Traps collect silt, sediment and vegetation, and prevent floatable litter from entering local waterways.
Floatable litter accounts for approximately 1% of material, although Council does not have a data breakdown to identify the proportion of this that is made up of fruit stickers. Gross pollutant traps are not highly effective at screening microplastics and it is far better to target these items at the source rather than within the litter stream.
Contaminants in FOGO
As a result of Council’s contamination management (detailed below) the quality of Inner West FOGO is extremely high, with low contamination. Inner West sends its FOGO to TopSoil at Forbes for processing via our Veolia processing contract. TopSoil currently only processes Inner West FOGO into a premium platinum grade compost product which meets Australian Standard AS4454. No material from other councils is currently accepted at this facility.

Image 1 and 2: Trommel (opening bags); TopSoil staff picking out contamination
TopSoil staff screen the product with manual contamination removal and sifting to remove microplastics and fruit stickers (these jobs have been directly created through Council’s FOGO project). The process produces compost suitable for use in food production. Contamination is constantly scrutinised and fruit stickers have not been reported as a challenge as TopSoil has processes to remove these:
· Visible contaminants are removed from the conveyor belt by staff
· FOGO is shredded and composted over 3 months
· Compost is sifted and plastic fragments including fruit stickers removed
In addition, Council is working with the EPA to trial AI and software to sort images captured by in-truck cameras to help identify FOGO contamination. It will identify contaminants and hotspots, leading to opportunities for targeted community education about what can/ cannot go in FOGO. Data collection and analysis will commence in October 2025.
Government action on microplastics and fruit stickers
The NSW Government has adopted the NSW Plastics Action Plan in 2021. This was followed with the NSW Plastics Next Steps paper (Oct 2023) which identified support for action on fruit stickers through a survey (92.4% individuals and 91.9% organisations).
The most recent paper NSW Plastics: The Way Forward – proposes to introduce a design standard requiring fruit and vegetable stickers and their adhesives to be compostable. To address concerns from stakeholders such as the Australian Fresh Produce Alliance, this standard would come into effect from 2030.
In other jurisdictions, South Australia planned to ban fruit stickers from September 2025, but this has been delayed due to concerns from the Australian Fresh Produce Alliance including:
· Labelling (fruit stickers) enables the origin of any fruit to be traced to producers
· Easy scanning labels at supermarket checkouts
· Switching to compostable stickers increases costs, but could be a longer-term plan
France was the first country to ban plastic produce stickers in 2022, with a phased ban for imported and domestic goods being implemented across 30 fruits and vegetables. The EU and New Zealand are implementing similar bans or phasing out plastic stickers, requiring compostable or edible alternatives by 2028.
As these bans take effect, emerging alternatives to fruit stickers include:
· Laser labelling to mark the fruit skin, however where fruit has edible peel this affects quality and the slower pace of laser labelling decreases efficiency.
· Compostable labels – however, this requires investigation to ascertain the chemical makeup and acceptability of the glue as a potential contaminant
· Supermarket checkout scanners with AI (such as Woolworths ‘Picklist Assist’ cameras) at self-service checkouts to recognise produce, reducing the need for barcodes on fruit
Conclusion
Inner West FOGO is of the highest quality due to the strategies in place to prevent contaminants from entering the compost stream and to ensure what does enter is removed. As FOGO is expanded beyond residential premises the following strategies may assist to continue the high quality of Inner West FOGO:
1. Messaging to remove fruit stickers to avoid contaminating FOGO is incorporated across Inner West communications channels including:
a) School and Early Learning Centre FOGO education materials
b) FOGO webpage
c) Council e-news and printed newsletters
d) social media
(Note: this recommendation is partly underway in respect of ELCs)
2. Council encourage local producers and suppliers of compostable bin liners to incorporate messaging to remove fruit stickers from 2026 onwards.
3. Council write to the Minister for the Environment, seeking support for the design standard for compostable fruit stickers or alternatives (such as lasering) to be fast-tracked from the proposed 2030 timeframe.
4. Council promote mandated NSW and Federal bans (for example, soy sauce “fish” and fruit stickers) as part of its campaigns on plastics and waste reduction.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
The implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report can be accommodated within the current FOGO budget.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Privately-led Planning Proposal - Marrickville Metro Shopping Centre - 20 Smidmore Street Marrickville
Prepared By: Daniel East - Senior Manager Strategic Planning
Authorised By: Simone Plummer - Director Planning
|
RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council endorse Planning Proposal for 20 Smidmore Street, Marrickville to amend the Inner West Local Environmental Plan 2022, as follows: a) Rezone the site from E4 General Industrial to E1 Local Centre. b) Introduce a maximum height of building control of 24m. c) Increase the maximum floor space ratio control from 0.95:1 to 1.8:1. d) Include a site-specific local provision requiring no net loss of non-residential floor space, or a non-residential floor space ratio of no less than 1.64:1, whichever is greater. e) Delete clauses 44 and 49 of Schedule 1 (Additional permitted uses) that currently apply to the site.
2. That Council forward the Planning Proposal to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure for a Gateway Determination in accordance with section 3.34 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.
3. That Council request the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure to authorise Council to be the Local Plan Making Authority (LPMA), and if Council is authorised as the LPMA, Council delegate the plan making functions to the Director Planning to exercise the function in accordance with the LEP Making Guideline.
4. That Council following receipt of an affirmative Gateway Determination and compliance with its conditions, agree to place the updated Planning Proposal and supporting documentation on public exhibition for a minimum of 28 days and consult with public authorities.
5. That following the conclusion of the exhibition period, the Planning Proposal be brought back to Council for consideration for adoption.
|
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport 3: Creative communities and a strong economy |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Council has received a proponent-led Planning Proposal for 20 Smidmore Street, Marrickville (the site) to amend the Inner West Local Environmental Plan 2022 (IWLEP) to reflect the current operational use of the site and support a broader range of commercial and community uses to be provided within the existing shopping centre development.
The current permissibility of the shopping centre relies on an Additional Permitted Use provision which was approved in 2012 under State-led Part 3A Major Project MP09_0191, although the proponent had sought a rezoning at the time. The existing land use zoning of the site in IWLEP 2022 is E4 – General Industrial which was intended to facilitate industrial uses and is overly constraining for the shopping centre in the event it seeks to make minor operational changes in the future.
The proponent seeks to rezone the site to E1 Local Centre which would reflect its existing use as a shopping centre The proposal is considered to be administrative in nature and does not seek to alter the built form on the site. The proposal will also bring alignment between the planning controls of the older portion of the shopping centre to the north which is already zoned E1 Local Centre in the IWLEP 2022.
The Planning Proposal has been assessed in accordance with the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) and relevant guidelines and was referred to the Inner West Local Planning Panel (IWLPP) for advice on 26 August 2025, where it was supported with minor changes. The proposal has strategic and site-specific merit as it demonstrates consistency with State and Local Government objectives for employment and economic growth.
This report recommends that the Planning Proposal be submitted to the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure for Gateway Determination.
BACKGROUND
In October 2024, a Pre-Lodgement Proposal was submitted by Urbis on behalf of the landowner, GPT Group (the proponent), and in January 2025, Council issued advice on the matters to be addressed in any future proposal for the site.
A Planning Proposal was lodged on the NSW Planning Portal by the proponent and accepted by Council on 16 May 2025. The Planning Proposal (Attachment 1) was subsequently revised based on the advice provided by the Inner West Local Planning Panel (IWLPP), at its meeting on 26 August 2025 (Attachment 3).
DISCUSSION
Site and Surrounding Context
The subject site is located at 20 Smidmore Street, Marrickville (Legal Description Lot 10 in DP1255587), as shown below at Figure 1. The irregular shaped lot is approximately 9,079m2 and is bound by Smidmore Street on the north, Edinburgh Road on the south and west and Murray Street on the east. The site is located approximately 900m west of the Princes Highway, and to the north of the Sydney railway and Metro lines that run between Sydenham and St Peters Stations. The site is currently zoned E4 General Industrial in the IWLEP 2022.
The site is part of the Marrickville Metro Shopping Centre expansion, approved in 2012 under Part 3A Major Project (MP09_0191) and opened in 2021. The existing development consists of two storeys of retailing, with three levels of car parking above, and solar panels on the upper parking deck. It is connected to the older part of the shopping centre, north of Smidmore Street, by a pedestrian footbridge. The existing development on the site has a total of 14,864m2 Gross Floor Area (GFA).
To the east, beyond Murray Road, are small and medium-scale industrial and warehouse developments. Further to the east are residential properties beyond Edgeware Road. To the south, beyond Edinburgh Road, is the construction associated with Sydney Metro and heavy railway line, and further to the south are industrial developments, and residential properties beyond Unwins Bridge Road. West along Edinburgh Road are commercial and industrial developments of varying scales, and residential properties.
To the north of the site lies the older section of the shopping centre. Located within the plaza area, adjacent to Victoria Road, sits ‘Mill House’ which is a local heritage listed building (Item 1286). Further to the north, beyond Victoria Road, are residential properties.
Site History
Prior to the Part 3A Major Project Approval (MP09_0191), the site was primarily used for industrial purposes.
In 2018, a planning proposal was considered by Council to rezone the site to B2 Local Centre (now E1 Local Centre) (reference PP2020/001). At that time, Council did not support the rezoning because construction of the approved shopping centre expansion had not commenced, and there were concerns that the rezoning could facilitate a development that departed significantly from the granted Major Project Approval (MPA), such as enabling shop-top housing uses which would impact the adjacent industrial precinct.
Instead, a Planning Proposal was progressed by Council for additional permitted uses on the site to allow uses consistent with the intended outcome of the MPA and other compatible uses typically found in shopping centres. Specifically, Clause 44 of Schedule 1 of IWLEP was introduced to permit the following uses on the site: business premises, centre-based childcare facilities, community facilities, medical centres, retail premises.
The assessment of PP2020/001 acknowledged that once the shopping centre expansion was constructed and operational, rezoning of the site to appropriate uses could be considered.
The State’s employment zones reform, which commenced in 2023, rezoned the site from IN1 General Industrial to E4 General Industrial. Clause 49 of Schedule 1 maintains the permissibility of vehicle body repair workshops on the site, consistent with the former IN1 zoning. This is another example of the inappropriateness of the current zoning.
The Planning Proposal
Table 1 outlines the current zoning and planning controls applying to the site and the proposed amendment to the IWLEP.
|
IWLEP |
Current |
Proposed (*as per IWLPP recommendation) |
|
Land Zoning |
E4 General Industrial |
E1 Local Centre |
|
Height of Buildings |
None |
24m* |
|
Floor Space Ratio |
0.95:1 |
1.8:1* |
|
Site-specific provision |
None |
No net loss of non-residential floor space, or a non-residential floor space ratio of no less than 1.64:1, whichever is the greater* |
|
Additional Permitted Uses (Schedule 1) |
business premises, centre-based child care facilities, community facilities, medical centres, retail premises Clause 49: - vehicle body repair workshops |
Delete* |
Table 1: IWLEP current and proposed controls
For reference, the northern part of Marrickville Metro is already zoned E1 Local Centre.
Planning Proposal Assessment Summary
The Planning Proposal has been assessed in accordance with Division 3.4 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 and the Local Environmental Plan Making Guidelines.
The key matters for consideration are discussed below. A detailed assessment of the proposal is provided in the Assessment Checklist (Attachment 4).
The proposal demonstrates consistency with the Metropolis of Three Cities Plan (Region Plan) and the Eastern City District Plan (District Plan). The proposal also aligns with Inner West’s Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS) and Employment and Retail Lands Strategy (EaRLS).
Specifically, the proposal aligns with:
· Region Plan Objective 22 – Investment and business activity in centres
· District Plan Priority E11 – Growing investment, business opportunities and jobs in strategic centres
· LSPS Planning Priority 9 – A thriving local economy
· EaRLS Strategy 1.2 – Establish a pipeline of retail and office floor space
· EaRLS Strategy 4.1 – Provide certainty and clarity to businesses
· EaRLS Action 4.1.5 –
o Rezone the land comprising the extension of Marrickville Metro from General Industrial to Local Centre.
o Consider the merits of a site specific clause for the shopping centre such as having a minimum commercial floor space ratio requirement, reflecting its core function as an employment centre.
Land use zoning
Consistent with EaRLS Action 4.1.5, the proposal seeks to align the zoning of the site with the current use and enable a broader range of commercial and community uses within the existing shopping centre development. The northern part of Marrickville Metro is already zoned E1 Local Centre. The IWLPP did not raise any concerns about the proposed rezoning of the site from E4 General Industrial to E1 Local Centre.
While the land use zoning to E1 Local Centre would enable additional uses including shop-top housing, the potential redevelopment of the site is limited due to the proposed FSR and HOB controls which are intended to primarily reflect the existing built form. Further, the proponent has expressed no intention to build residential uses on the site given the recent investment in the construction of a high standard fully-functional shopping centre.
Height of buildings (HOB)
The site currently does not have a HOB control. The existing development (as approved by MP09_0191 – Mod 9) has a building height of 23.566m. Initially, the proposal sought to introduce a maximum HOB control of 26m.
Following the IWLPP advice, the HOB control has been reduced to 24m, reflecting the height of the existing development. The IWLPP considered that whilst taller development of a minor nature could occur towards the centre of the site where the built form would not be visible from the public domain, 24m is more appropriate as a blanket height control for the entirety of the site.
This height control will ensure that the proposed development will largely occur within the existing built form.
Floor space ratio (FSR)
The maximum FSR control applying to the site currently is 0.95:1. The existing shopping centre development has a total GFA of 14,864m2, approved under MP0191_MOD11, in February 2021. The approved GFA equates to an FSR of 1.64:1.
Initially, the proposal did not seek to amend the maximum FSR control applying to the site. Prior to the IWLPP meeting, the proponent nominated a maximum FSR control of 1.84:1, to allow flexibility for the shopping centre to adapt to changing floor space needs.
Following the IWLPP advice, the FSR control has been reduced to 1.8:1. The IWLPP considered that an FSR of 1.8:1 is more than adequate to enable the level of flexibility appropriate under the circumstances of the existing development, this provides an additional 10% of GFA over existing.
This FSR control will ensure that the proposed development will largely occur within the existing built form and retain the supply of non-residential/ employment uses – discussed below.
Minimum non-residential FSR
As noted above, the approved GFA on site equates to an FSR of 1.64:1. Initially, the proposal included a site-specific provision for minimum non-residential FSR of 1.4:1, however based on the IWLPP advice, the provision has been updated to ensure that as a result of any future development, there will be no net loss of non-residential floor space, or a non-residential FSR of no less than 1.64:1, whichever is the greater.
The revised provision is consistent with EaRLS Action 4.1.5 as it safeguards the core function of the site as an employment centre and accounts for the existing non-residential GFA approved on the site. This protects against future loss of commercial floor space should the site redevelop in the future.
Additional permitted uses (APU)
The proposal initially did not consider removing existing APU clauses under Schedule 1 of IWLEP applying to the site:
· Clause 44 – allows certain uses (business premises, centre-based childcare facilities, community facilities, medical centres, retail premises) at 20 Smidmore Street, and
· Clause 49 – continues the permissibility of vehicle body repair workshops on land formally zoned IN1 General Industrial, which was rezoned E4 General Industrial under the State’s employment zones reform.
Rezoning the site to E1 Local Centre permits with consent all the uses listed in APU clause 44, and as such the clause would be redundant. The permissibility of vehicle body repair workshops under APU clause 49 is inconsistent with the function of the site as shopping centre and the proposed E1 zoning. Consistent with the IWLPP advice, the revised proposal removes these APU clauses.
The proposal aligns with relevant Section 9.1 Local Planning Directions and State Environmental Planning Policies as discussed in detail in Attachment 4. Discussion on site-specific matters is in the table below.
|
Key issues |
Council Response |
|
Flooding/ Overland Flow |
The site is identified as flood prone and subject to overland flow. The approval under Part 3A MP09_0191 demonstrated acceptability of the shopping centre expansion.
Whist the rezoning to E1 Local Centre will enable additional sensitive uses, such as shop top housing and respite day care centres, it should be noted that centre-based childcare facility, community facilities, and medical centres are already permitted on the site.
This planning proposal is administrative in nature and does not seek to alter the built form on the site. The suitability of any future uses, and consideration of associated flood risk will be assessed as part of the development assessment process. |
|
Acid Sulfate Soils |
The site is identified as affected by Class 2 Acid Sulfate Soils. The approval under Part 3A MP09_0191 demonstrated acceptability of the works undertaken below the natural ground surface. The proposal does not seek to change the existing built form. |
|
Transport and Infrastructure |
The proposal will not increase demand for infrastructure. The existing shopping centre is serviced, and the site is accessible by public transport, with connecting bus services and being within walking distance to Metro and Railway Stations (approx.15 min). |
|
Ecological/ Vegetation |
The site is located in an existing urban area and does not have any significant vegetation, nor is the site identified to have critical habitat or threatened species, populations or ecological communities, or their habitats. |
|
Environmental Heritage |
The site has no identified or known items of European or Aboriginal significance. The proposal does not impact any nearby heritage items. |
|
Australian Noise Exposure Forecasts |
The site is affected by Australian Noise Exposure Forecasts (ANEF)of 20-25 and 25-30. The shopping centre, approved under Part 3A MP09_0191 is constructed to the ANEF specifications for the approved use. Any future uses will be assessed against the ANEF criteria as part of the development assessment process. |
|
Obstacle Limitation Surface (OLS) |
The site is affected by an OLS of 48m – 50m AHD. The shopping centre, approved under Part 3A MP09_0191, has a building height of 23.566m and the proposed HOB control of 24m is within the OLS limit. |
Table 2: Summary of matters for consideration
Inner West Local Planning Panel Advice
In accordance with Division 2.5 (2.19) of the EP&A Act 1979, the Planning Proposal was referred to the IWLPP on 26 August 2025. The IWLPP recommended the proposal be supported, as summarised below;
· Incorporate a maximum floor space ratio (FSR) of 1.8:1;
· Introduce a maximum height of building development standard of 24 metres that reflects the existing building height;
· Introduce a site-specific control to ensure that non-residential floor space cannot be reduced by future applications
· Introduce a relatively small increase in non residential floor space (to facilitate future minor operational changes)
· Delete the provisions of clauses 44 and 49 of Schedule 1 (Additional permitted uses) that currently apply to the site.
Following on from the IWLPP meeting, the proposal has been updated in accordance with the IWLPP advice (Attachment 3).
Conclusion
The Planning Proposal has strategic and site-specific merit. This report recommends the proposal be submitted for a Gateway determination, requesting Council to be the Local Plan Making Authority. Subject to the Gateway determination, it is recommended that Council delegate the plan making functions to Director Planning to exercise the function in accordance with the LEP Making Guideline, including addressing the conditions of Gateway, the requirements for public exhibition and community consultation.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
Attachments 1-4 have been published separately in the Attachments Document on Council’s Website https://www.innerwest.nsw.gov.au/about/the-council/council-meetings/current-council-meetings
|
1.⇨ |
Marrickville Metro Shopping Centre - Planning Proposal Report Updated September 2025 - Published Separately on Council’s website |
|
2.⇨ |
Marrickville Metro Shopping Centre - Planning Proposal LEP Maps Updated September 2025 - Published Separately on Council’s website |
|
3.⇨ |
Inner West Local Planning Panel Minutes - 26 August 2025 - Published Separately on Council’s website |
|
4.⇨ |
Planning Proposal Assessment Checklist - Marrickville Metro Shopping Centre - Published Separately on Council’s website |
|
|
Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee - 13 October 2025 Minutes
Prepared By: Julian Sakarai - Senior Manager Governance and Risk
Authorised By: Sharon Bowman - Director Corporate
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive the minutes and adopt the recommendations of the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee (ARIC) meeting held on 13 October 2025. |
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The confirmed minutes of the Special Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee (ARIC) meeting held on 13 October 2025 are attached for Council’s consideration.
BACKGROUND
Council’s ARIC is established in accordance with section 428A of the Local Government Act 1993. The objective of Council’s ARIC is to provide independent assurance to Council by monitoring, reviewing, and providing advice about Council’s governance processes, compliance, risk management and control frameworks, external accountability obligations and overall performance.
Council’s ARIC held a Special Meeting on 13 October 2025 (Special Meeting), to consider Council’s audited general purpose financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2025.
DISCUSSION
The ARIC approved the minutes of the Special Meeting out of session. The ARIC Terms of Reference require the minutes of ARIC meetings to be provided to Council and published to Council’s website after adoption by Council. The approved minutes of the Special Meeting reflect ARIC’s endorsement of the draft financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2025 and are attached for Council’s consideration and adoption.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
|
1.⇩ |
ARIC Minutes - Special Meeting (Financial Statements) - 13 October 2025 |
|
|
Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Investment Report at 30 September 2025
Prepared By: Chris Sleiman - Chief Financial Officer
Authorised By: Sharon Bowman- Director Corporate
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive and note the report. |
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
5: Progressive, responsive, and effective civic leadership |
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
A monthly investment report is provided to Council detailing the investment portfolio in terms of performance, percentage exposure of the total portfolio, maturity date and changes in market value.
During the month of September 2025:
· Council made $25M of new investments, comprising:
· $5.0M 6 month Term Deposit with Bank of Queensland at fixed rate of 4.24%pa
· $2.0M 2 year Term Deposit with Bank of Queensland at fixed rate of 4.09%pa
· $2.0M 3 year Term Deposit with Bank of Queensland at fixed rate of 4.11%pa
· $3.0M 1 year Green Term Deposit with Westpac at fixed rate of 4.21%pa
· $6.5M 1 year Green Term Deposit with Westpac at fixed rate of 4.09%pa
· $3.5M 1 year Green Term Deposit with Westpac at fixed rate of 4.11%pa
· $3.0M 3 year Term Deposit with Bank of Victoria at fixed rate of 4.08%pa.
· $28M of investments matured, comprising:
· $3.5M 6 month Term Deposit with Bendigo and Adelaide at fixed rate of 4.64%pa
· $10.0M 12 month Green Term Deposit with Westpac at fixed rate of 4.76%pa
· $6.5M 12 month Green Term Deposit with Westpac at fixed rate of 4.74%pa
· $5.0M 12 month Term Deposit with Bank of Us at fixed rate of 4.78%pa
· $3.0M 12 month Term Deposit with Bank of Us at fixed rate of 4.82%pa.
· Council’s market value investment portfolio size is $186.4M, $3.0M lower than last month. Additional funds were retained to cover cashflow requirements.
· Council’s portfolio during the month had an annualised return of 4.46% pa on a marked-to-market basis, performing well against the ‘AusBond Bank Bill Index’ Benchmark of 3.62% pa.
· For the past 12 months, the portfolio has returned 4.54% pa on a marked-to-market basis (outperforming the benchmark by 0.36%)
· Council’s entire investment portfolio remains invested in a non-fossil fuel portfolio, with 53% of the portfolio in Non-Fossil Fuel Lending authorised deposit-taking institutions (ADIs), 11% in Socially Responsible Investments, and 36% in Green investments
· Council is preparing for the maturity of further investments in October 2025, with interest rates expected to decline by early-mid 2026.
Council’s investments are reported monthly to Council in accordance with the Local Government Act 1993, the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 and Council’s Investment Policy.
BACKGROUND
A monthly investment report is provided to Council detailing the investment portfolio in terms of performance, percentage exposure of total portfolio, maturity date and changes in market value.
The objective of investing Council’s funds is to seek the most favourable return available, whilst:
· Investing in a non-fossil fuel investment portfolio, as determined by Council
· Having due consideration of risk and security for that investment type
· Ensuring that its liquidity requirements are being maintained
· Considering the preservation of capital – investments are placed in a manner that seeks to ensure security and safeguard the investment portfolio.
This includes managing credit and interest rate risk within identified thresholds and parameters.
Council’s Socially Responsible Investments consist of Green Term Deposits/Floating Rate Notes from otherwise fossil fuel lending banks, such as CBA and Westpac, and also long dated bond issues from a range of institutions and government agencies. These investments provide targeted funding to a wide range of green and socially responsible projects and initiatives. Council also utilises these investments to remain within the credit rating policy guidelines imposed by the NSW TCorp loan covenant requirements.
Legislative Requirements
All investments are to comply with the following:
· Local Government Act 1993;
· Local Government (General) Regulation 2021;
· Ministerial Investment Order dated 17 February 2011;
· Local Government Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting;
· Australian Accounting Standards; and
· Division of Local Government Investment Policy Guidelines May 2010.
Certification
The Chief Financial Officer, Chris Sleiman, as the Responsible Accounting Officer has certified that the investments listed in the attached report have been made in accordance with Section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993, Section 212 of the Local Government General Regulation 2021, and Council’s Investment Policy.
DISCUSSION
Changes in our portfolio
New investments of $28M comprising:
· $5.0M 6 month Term Deposit with Bank of Queensland at fixed rate of 4.24%pa
· $2.0M 2 year Term Deposit with Bank of Queensland at fixed rate of 4.09%pa
· $2.0M 3 year Term Deposit with Bank of Queensland at fixed rate of 4.11%pa
· $3.0M 1 year Green Term Deposit with Westpac at fixed rate of 4.21%pa
· $6.5M 1 year Green Term Deposit with Westpac at fixed rate of 4.09%pa
· $35M 1 year Green Term Deposit with Westpac at fixed rate of 4.11%pa.
Matured investments of $25M comprising:
· $3.5M 6 month Term Deposit with Bendigo and Adelaide at fixed rate of 4.64%pa
· $10.0M 12 month Green Term Deposit with Westpac at fixed rate of 4.76%pa
· $6.5M 12 month Green Term Deposit with Westpac at fixed rate of 4.74%pa
· $5.0M 12 month Term Deposit with Bank of Us at fixed rate of 4.78%pa
· $3.0M 12 month Term Deposit with Bank of Us at fixed rate of 4.82%pa.
Investment advice provided to Council suggested that with at least one more rate cut priced in over the next 6-12 months domestically, we should consider allocating some longer-term surplus funds and undertake an “insurance policy” by investing across 1-5 year fixed deposits and locking in rates above 4% p.a. This will provide some income protection if the RBA decides to continue cutting rates.
Council followed this advice in making the new investments during the month, by locking in rates above 4% p.a. over 6-month to 3 year terms.
The value of our Portfolio
The attachments to this report detail all investments held by Council and interest returns for the period ending 30 September 2025.
Council’s market value investment portfolio size is $186.4M (as set out in the table below), $3.0M lower compared with the prior month market value of $189.4M.

Council has two non-compliant (unrated) investments that were purchased in July 2006 with maturity dates of August 2051 and August 2056, representing a market value $1.1M, less than 1% of Council’s invested funds.
Council’s entire investment portfolio remains invested in Green, Socially Responsible or Non-Fossil Fuel lending, as set out in the table below. All Socially Responsible Investments (SRI’s) comply with the Non-Fossil Fuel standards.

Investment Returns
Council’s portfolio during the month had an annualised return of 4.46% pa on a marked-to-market basis, performing well against the ‘AusBond Bank Bill Index’ Benchmark of 3.62% pa. For the past 12 months, the portfolio has returned 4.54% pa on a marked-to-market basis.
The marked-to-market or current market value, which Council is required to account for, represents the price at which the asset could be sold in the current market. This would be the outcome if Council were to sell the investment now (i.e. prior to its due date).
As interest rates rise and fall the dollar valuations of existing bonds rise and fall in the market. While the market value of a Fixed Rate Bond (or Floating Rates Note) may drop below the face value (or par value) during the life of a security, provided Council does not sell the security and the issuer is sound (which all of Council’s holdings are) then the bond’s market value will come back to the face value by the time it matures.
External / Internal Restrictions & Working Funds
Council’s External Restriction reserves are funds that are restricted for use for specific purposes according to agreements with external parties. Examples of such reserves include:
· Developer Contributions
· Grants
· Domestic Waste Reserve
· Stormwater Levy
Internal Restriction reserves are reserves created internally by Council to set aside funds for a specific purpose. Examples include:
· Employment Leave Entitlements
· Investment Property Reserve
· Infrastructure Renewal Reserve
· Depreciation Contra Reserve
Due to the 2024/25 Financial Year End process currently in progress, the split between the External and Internal Restrictions are not available at this time. This information will be provided in future reports.
Other Investment Information
Various equity markets including the US main indices (S&P 500, NASDAQ and Dow Jones) reached new record highs during September, partly led by AI optimism, after Nvidia’s major investment in OpenAI (ChatGPT), as well as another US Fed rate cut. The positive sentiment was also brought on by expectations of further rate cuts over the next 12 months (albeit less than previously anticipated).
The chart below shows the average Term Deposit rates available for Council over various terms across banks from different credit ratings.

In the deposit market, over September, at the short-end of the curve (under 12 months), the average deposit rates offered by the domestic major banks were marginally higher compared to where they were the previous month (August), after the market pushed back on the number of future rate cuts priced in (now only one) following the higher than expected monthly inflation figure. At the longer-end of the curve (2-5 years), the average rates were around ~5-8 basis points (bp) higher compared to where they were the previous month.
Domestic issues
The following issues are being considered in Council’s investment strategy:
· In a unanimous decision, the RBA’s Monetary Policy Board left the cash rate on hold at 3.60% in September, as expected. The key observation was that “inflation in the September quarter may be higher than expected at the time of the August Statement on Monetary Policy”.
· The Monthly CPI Indicator for August rose to +3.0% y/y, above consensus of +2.9% y/y, the highest level since July 2024. The annual trimmed mean fell to +2.6% y/y from +2.7%, but that is due to base effects (particularly travel) and should not be seen as good news. Market Services Inflation came in hot, a sharp shift from the pace of price growth over recent quarter in what tends to be more persistent components.
· The unemployment rate remained unchanged at 4.24% in August, despite the drop in employment, due to a fall in the participation rate. Employment fell 5.1k, as a large fall in full time employment (-40.9k) was only partially offset by a rise in part time employment (35.5k).
· Financial markets are now only factoring one additional rate cut by early-mid 2026, potentially taking the official cash rate down to 3.35%, pushing back on two additional rate cuts after the latest monthly inflation reading came up higher than anticipated

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
|
1.⇩ |
Inner West Council Economic and Investment Portfolio Commentary - September 2025 |
|
2.⇩ |
Inner West Council Investment Report - September 2025 |
|
Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Leichhardt Oval Refurbishment - Monthly Project Update
Prepared By: Scott Mullen - Strategic Investments & Property Manager
Authorised By: Ryann Midei - Director Property and Major Projects
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive and note the report. |
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport 4: Healthy, resilient and caring communities |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The purpose of this report is to provide a monthly update on the Leichhardt Oval Refurbishment project.
The project is currently in the design phase, with its high-level scope confirmed at the 29 April 2025 Council meeting through the endorsement of the final design concepts.
All design consultants are now engaged and are currently undertaking both site based and desktop investigations to familiarise themselves with the project scope and site conditions.
As part of the planning approval process, the project was presented to the NSW State Design Review Panel (SDRP) on 8 October 2025. The SDRP, administered by the Government Architect NSW, provides design guidance for projects of state significance. This presentation represented a significant milestone in the project’s development. The panel’s feedback is anticipated to inform further design refinements and enhance the future planning approval submission.
NSW Public Works Advisory was appointed as the independent project assurance consultant for the Leichhardt Oval Refurbishment, providing oversight to ensure the highest standards of project integrity and risk management. They will deliver detailed monthly reports to various Council committees and meetings, strengthening transparency and accountability throughout the project.
Construction is scheduled to commence in October 2026 and is anticipated to be completed by February 2028.
BACKGROUND
In October 2023, Council adopted the Leichhardt Oval Masterplan following extensive public engagement.
In June 2024, the Commonwealth, State and Local Governments formed a funding partnership to secure the future of Leichhardt Oval. The Commonwealth committing $20 million to the project, with the NSW Government and the Inner West Council investing $10 million each towards the upgrade
At the Council meeting held on 29 April 2025 meeting, Council resolved the following:
That Council endorse the Leichhardt Oval renovation final design concepts April 2025
(Attachment 1 of the Council report) and proceed with preparing detailed plans in order
to seek planning approval.
This resulted in a project scope to the:
· Western Grandstand Player Amenities
· Western Grandstand – modern facilities for spectators, sponsors and media
· Lower Seating Bowl – All new ‘stadium type’ seating to ensure safety and compliance
· New Northern Grandstand
Council has appointed external consultants to provide Architectural design and Project Management services with demonstratable experience and capability to successfully deliver the project.
In this regard, Ernst & Young (EY) were appointed at the August 2025 Council meeting for project management services. EY is a globally recognised consultancy with a Sydney-based Project Management Division that has a strong track record in delivering major sports stadiums, recreational facilities, and related infrastructure projects across the Sydney metropolitan area and broader NSW. This includes overseeing big stadium projects including Allianz Stadium, CommBank Stadium and the new Penrith Stadium
Cox Architecture were appointed at the August 2025 Council meeting as the Principal Design Consultant who lead a team of consultants including structural, electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, planning, heritage, accessibility and Building Code of Australia to undertake the design development and schematic design phase.
Cox Architecture has extensive experience in delivering a diverse range of stadia projects, reflecting their 60 years of design excellence in sports stadia, elite training, and community facilities. They possess considerable expertise in complex sport developments and a thorough understanding of venue requirements, including sporting codes, digital technology, spectator experience, and crowd movements.
There is a comprehensive project assurance and governance framework being applied to the project. In this regard, a Project Control Group has been established, with the General Manager as the Sponsor, that will have oversight of the project.
Rider Levett Bucknall has been appointed as the projects Quantity Surveyor (QS) to prepare cost estimates. The QS will also have an on-going role through the construction stages in assessing progress claims and variation costs, and monitoring cash flows.
The project continues to be monitored in accordance with the Risk Management Plan and is reported to Governance forums including:
· Project Control Group – Monthly and chaired by the General Manager
· Major Capital Projects Committee – Monthly
· Audit Risk and Improvement Committee – Quarterly
· Inner West Council meetings – Monthly
DISCUSSION
The Leichhardt Oval Refurbishment project is currently in the design phase, with its high-level scope confirmed at the April 2025 Council meeting through the endorsement of the final design concepts. All design consultants are now engaged and are currently undertaking both site based and desktop investigations to familiarise themselves with the project scope and site conditions.
The planning approval process for the finalised project scope will follow the State Significant Development (SSD) pathway, as the estimated development cost exceeds $30 million. In this regard, the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) will serve as the Consent Authority. Currently, planning activities are underway to meet the Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements, which are necessary to obtain consent for the refurbishment.
As part of the planning approval process, the project was presented to the NSW State Design Review Panel (SDRP) on 8 October 2025. The SDRP, administered by the Government Architect NSW, provides design guidance for projects of state significance. This presentation represented a significant milestone in the project’s development. The panel’s feedback is anticipated to inform further design refinements and enhance the future planning approval submission.
During the month, NSW Public Works Advisory, a New South Wales government agency, were appointed as the project assurance consultant for the Leichhardt Oval Refurbishment. Their independent oversight will ensure the highest standards of project integrity and risk management, helping to keep the project on track by rigorously reviewing performance, monitoring costs and timelines, and offering expert recommendations for continuous improvement. Additionally, NSW Public Works Advisory is responsible for preparing comprehensive monthly reports. These reports will be tabled at the Council’s Major Capital Projects Committee, the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee, as well as internal Executive Strategy meetings. This thorough reporting process enhances transparency, accountability, and risk management across the project’s delivery, reinforcing Council’s dedication to best practices in major capital works.
The high-level project program is presented below:
|
Activity |
Target Completion |
Status |
|
Project Planning Scope Confirmation |
May 2025 |
Completed |
|
Consultant Engagements |
August 2025 |
Completed |
|
Lodgement of SSD Application |
December 2025 |
In progress |
|
Complete 80% design for tender |
April 2026 |
In progress |
|
Planning Approval |
August 2026 |
In progress |
|
Procurement |
August 2026 |
Future |
|
Contract award and execution |
September 2026 |
Future |
|
Construction commences on-site |
October 2026 |
Future |
|
Construction complete |
February 2028 |
Future |
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
The Quantity Surveyor has confirmed the Project Budget breakdown and the estimated costs for the recommended design concepts are approximately $50M which is subject to further value engineering and a future procurement process to ensure that Council receives the best value for money from the project.
There is $40M funding allocated in the draft Long Term Financial Plan for the 2025/2026 financial year and Council will seek further State and Commonwealth grant funding opportunities and could potentially stage some of the works.
Nil.
Subject: Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre Upgrade - Monthly Project Update
Prepared By: Stuart Hull - Senior Manager Capital Works
Authorised By: Ryann Midei - Director Property and Major Projects
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive and note the report.
|
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
1: An ecologically sustainable Inner West 2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport 4: Healthy, resilient and caring communities |
The purpose of this report is to provide a monthly update on the Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre (LPAC) Upgrade project.
Stage 1 works (mushroom pool and a new kids’ splash play area) commenced in April 2025 and works have progressed significantly.
The concrete pour for stage two of the mushroom pool, splashpad structure and the plinths in the plantroom area have now been completed.
The new mechanical plant and equipment have been installed on the new plantroom slab and are now ready for rough-in.
All excavation works for the new balance tank have been completed, and the unit has now been installed on-site, ready for connection.
The final Ausgrid connection for the new main electrical switchboard is scheduled for mid-October, with energisation of the new board thereafter.
It is anticipated that Stage 1 will be completed in December 2025 (weather permitting).
Stage 2 (construction of new heated 8-lane 50m pool and a heated 25m pool) is currently in the design and procurement phase, with tender documentation now issued through a select tender process and site briefings conducted with those contractors. It is planned to report the tender to the February 2026 Council meeting.
Stage 2 is due for completion in September 2027.
BACKGROUND
With the existing 50m and dive pools reaching the end of their lifespan having been constructed in the early 1960s, Council is undertaking a comprehensive upgrade to revitalise the facility. This transformation will ensure the Aquatic Centre remains a vibrant and sustainable hub for the community for the next 50 years.
Council has appointed external consultants to provide Architectural design, Project Management and Project Assurance services with demonstratable experience and capability to successfully deliver the project.
In this regard, CO.OP Studios were appointed as the lead design consultant in mid-2023 to provide all architectural and engineering design services. CO.OP and their sub-consultant team have extensive experience around Australia though their network of state offices designing elite level sporting and aquatic centre projects.
Altus Group were appointed in late 2024 as the Project Managers and bring with them a wealth of experience in delivering aquatic centre projects.
There is a comprehensive project assurance and governance framework being applied to the project. In this regard, Council appointed Turner and Townsend (T&T) as the Project Assurance Consultant in late 2023 to have oversight of Stages 1 and 2 to ensure the highest standards of project integrity and risk management.
T&T have had an ongoing involvement through the development of the designs, project risk management, cost estimates and business case documents. This involvement will continue through to project completion and include monthly reporting to the Major Capital Projects Committee on the progress of the project.
Wilde & Woolard has been appointed as the projects Quantity Surveyor (QS) to prepare cost estimates. The QS will also have an on-going role through the construction stages in assessing progress claims and variation costs, and monitoring cash flows.
The project continues to be monitored in accordance with the Risk Management Plan and is reported to Governance forums including:
· Project Control Group – Monthly
· Major Capital Projects Committee – Monthly
· Audit Risk and Improvement Committee – Quarterly
· Inner West Council meetings – Monthly
At the Council meeting held on 19 August 2025, the following additional items were endorsed and have now been incorporated into the project scope:
· Playground in the grassed area between the pools and the Bay Run.
· Eight additional shade structures around 50m and 25m pools.
DISCUSSION
The LPAC Upgrade will be delivered in two stages due to construction practicalities and ensuring as many facilities at LPAC are open as possible during construction. It is also proposed to commence construction works during the winter months to minimise impacts on community pool users, sport groups, swim learners and LPAC operations.
Stage 1
This includes refurbishment of the outdoor kid’s pool known as mushroom pool and a new kids’ splash play area that will have a BBQ area, seating, and shade structures.
The indoor program pool hall will have HVAC upgrades, alongside the construction of a new fully electrified heating and filtration plant for the indoor program pool and kid’s pool.
Stage 1 works commenced in April 2025 and works have progressed significantly. The concrete pour for stage two of the mushroom pool, splashpad structure and the plinths in the plantroom area have now been completed.
The new mechanical plant and equipment have been installed on the new plantroom slab and are now ready for rough-in.
All excavation works for the new balance tank have been completed, and the unit has now been installed on-site, ready for connection.
The final Ausgrid connection for the new main electrical switchboard is scheduled for mid-October, with energisation of the new board thereafter.
It is anticipated that Stage 1 will be completed in December 2025 (weather permitting)
Stage 2
This includes the construction of new heated 8-lane 50m pool (1.1 to 1.8m deep) and a heated 25m pool (from zero to 2.1m depth with movable floor and accessible device), spectator seating and shade structures around the 25m and 50m pools, new first aid, lifeguard, and storage rooms, new fully electrified pool heating system and filtration plants for 50m and 25m pools, accessibility lift and upgraded stairs to access the rear turfed area along with re-turfing, accessible pathway link and new picnic shelter, and a playground in the grassed area between the pools and the Bay Run.
Stage 2 is currently in the design and procurement phase, with tender documentation now issued through a select tender process and site briefings conducted with those contractors. It is planned to report the tender to the February 2026 Council meeting.
Linsday Taylor Lawyers have been engaged as the probity consultant for the RFT process.
Stage 2 has the following high-level program:
· Complete 80% design for tender – Completed
· Release tender documentation to shortlisted tenderers – Completed
· Construction tender and evaluation – January 2026
· Contract award and execution – February 2026
· Construction commences on-site – May 2026
· Construction completed – September 2027
The planning pathway approval for the project is via Section 2.73(2) of the State Environmental Planning Policy. This requires a Review of Environment Factors to confirm compliance and ensure the works are consistent with the Plan of Management and relevant environmental considerations prior to works commencing.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
An extensive value engineering and cost saving exercise has been undertaken to the project
with oversight by the external Project Assurance Consultant and Quantity Surveyor.
Council was recently advised of its successful application for the Federal Government’s Round
1 Community Energy Upgrade Fund grant in the amount of $1,054,000 for Stage 1 works, this
grant agreement has been received and executed.
The upgrade of LPAC has been estimated at $55.5 million, with Stage 1 allocated $9.78 million and Stage 2 allocated $45.72 million. The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) has confirmed that funding to cover the estimated project cost is accounted for in the draft Long Term Financial Plan for the 2025/2026 financial year.
The inclusion of the playground and additional shade structures endorsed at the August 2025 Council meeting have an associated cost of $290,000 and $144,000, respectively.
Accordingly, the project budget will be increased by $434,000 to accommodate these enhancements, resulting in a revised total project budget of $55.934 million.
The CFO has confirmed that the additional funding is available from the infrastructure reserve, and will need to be considered as a part of the first quarterly budget review for FY25/26.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Inner West Pride Walk Update
Prepared By: Tim Brown - Capital Works Manager and Adele Pittaway - Community Wellbeing Manager
Authorised By: Ryann Midei - Director Property and Major Projects
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive and note the report. |
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
3: Creative communities and a strong economy |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The purpose of this report is to provide an update on the delivery of the Inner West Pride Walk.
The Inner West Pride Walk is designed to celebrate and illuminate significant LGBTQIA+ history, people and organisations across the local government area. Through the use of QR codes, along with both physical and digital maps, the initiative will guide participants to key sites that have shaped the community’s rich heritage.
Community consultations have guided that the walk should be ”bite-sized” and precinct based, ensuring that walking tours are accessible. To enhance engagement, the experience will feature inclusive, media-rich content that is easy to interact with. The proposed format centres around identifying anchor sites that act as starting points for thematic storytelling, creating a cohesive and immersive journey that celebrates diversity and fosters meaningful connections.
In developing the Inner West Pride Walk, Council staff have engaged in consultations with key local organisations and individuals to help shape the project. Contributors include Peter De Waal a prominent local stakeholder, the Sydney Pride History Group, the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, The Pollys one of Australia’s longest-running LGBTQ+ support organisations, and representatives from ACON, including the Community Health Project Officer and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities.
These discussions have surfaced a range of important themes, including but not limited to First Nations perspectives, trans histories, sites of trauma, and moments of celebration. These insights will inform the walk’s narrative and ensure it reflects the depth and diversity of LGBTQIA+ experiences across the Inner West.
It is proposed to report on the final list of locations at the December 2025 Council meeting.
Council proposes launching the Inner West Pride Walk at the Feel the Love event in March 2026. This celebration will showcase key elements of the project, including the locations of national LGBTQIA+ historical significance, the detailed design of physical markers, stories highlighting pivotal moments and figures, and website information featuring Pride Walk locations and audio guides to enrich the visitor experience.
Works for the Inner West Pride Walk are proposed to commence after the launch in April 2026, with completion anticipated by August 2026.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 20 May 2025, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council acknowledge the Inner West is home to multiple sites of significance for national LGBTQIA+ history.
2. That Council note that many local LGBTQIA+ organisations are engaged in the important work of documenting, preserving and engaging our community with this history.
3. That Council establish an Inner West Pride Walk in consultation with key local groups, consisting of an audio tour, a printed guide, and physical markers or plaques at key locations detailing the significance of people, locations and events important to LGBTQIA+ people.
4. That the launch of the Inner West Pride Walk be included as part of the Feel the Love event in 2026.
5. That Council, as part of consultation for this program, consult with key local organisations and individuals including the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, the LGBTQIA+ Working Group and others.
6. That funds for this project be drawn from the Mainstreet Revitalisation Fund and a report detailing a timeline for realisation, budget, list of proposed locations and potential third-party partners, as well as information regarding the consultation, be provided to Council by October 2025.
DISCUSSION
The establishment of a permanent Inner West Pride Walk will honour and highlight the vital contributions of Inner West communities, organisations, individuals, and locations to the history of LGBTQIA+ liberation in Australia.
The walk will celebrate significant sites in the Inner West LGA including Pride Square and the Pride Centre. This builds on a popular and informative walking tour of key locations important to LGBTQIA+ communities in the Inner West and City of Sydney as part of the Mardi Gras season, hosted by the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence.
Community input into the proposed Pride Walk will reinforce the importance of embracing diverse perspectives to fully reflect the richness and complexity of Inner West LGBTIQA+ history.
Consultation
Community consultations have guided that the walk should be ”bite-sized” and precinct based, ensuring that walking tours are accessible. To enhance engagement, the experience will feature inclusive, media-rich content that is easy to interact with. The proposed format centres around identifying anchor sites that act as starting points for thematic storytelling, creating a cohesive and immersive journey that celebrates diversity and fosters meaningful connections.
In this regard and following the May 2025 Council resolution, consultation was undertaken with key local organisations and individuals including the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, the LGBTQIA+ Working Group and others to inform the development of the Inner West Pride Walk.
Peter De Waal, a key local stakeholder, shared foundational stories of Balmain as the birthplace of CAMP Inc. and early LGBTQ+ organising. The Sydney Pride History Group emphasised the importance of historical rigour and the inclusion of underrepresented voices.
The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence have offered to provide archival material, walking tour expertise and to conduct a ceremonial blessing for the launch, which Council staff will continue to explore as an opportunity.
Additional consultation was held with The Pollys (one of Australia’s Longest LGBTQ+ support organisations), the ACON Community Health Project Officer and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities.
From these discussions, it was identified the importance of ensuring the Pride Walk reflects — but is not limited to — the following themes:
· First Nations perspectives to be foregrounded, with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices included in the telling of history
· Trans histories and key figures
· Lesbian histories and women-led activism
· HIV/AIDS impact and memory
· Sites of trauma as well as celebration
· Community venues and LGBTQ+ meeting points and gathering spaces past and present
· Venue evolution from segregated spaces to inclusive venues post-2000s
· Oral history and community memory, with a call to record voices and stories from those who lived through key moments
· Social and political change impacts on the LGBTQ+ community.
· Archival storytelling: Use of DVDs, flyers, newspaper clippings, and pre-digital communication methods.
Further consultation with Twenty10, Dykes on Bikes, Flying Bats and The Gender Centre will be sought prior to the finalisation of the Pride Walk locations.
Proposed locations and potential third-party partners
Given the physical distance between potential sites and the goal of inclusivity across the entire LGA, a precinct-based storytelling approach has been identified as a suitable format for the Pride Walk. Key points of interest will be marked with plaques, each providing access to additional site-specific and contextual information via QR codes along with both physical and digital maps, the initiative will guide participants to key sites that have shaped the community’s rich heritage.
The format and delivery of this information are currently being scoped, with a commitment to multi-modal options that reflect the inclusive and accessible nature of the project.
Some of the current locations identified as significant for the Pride Walk include:
· Terry Street, Balmain where the Australia’s first gay counselling service ’Phone-a-Friend' began in 1973.
· The Inner West Pride Centre in Newtown.
· Tiresias House, a government-funded transgender refuge that opened at 75 Morgan St, Petersham.
· The Leichhardt Hotel, which was a regular social gathering place for ‘Dykes on bikes’ lesbian motorcycle club that formed in 1987 in Sydney.
· The Feminist Bookshop (originally established in 1974) that has been in Lilyfield since 1982 and was the first shop to sell only women’s and feminist texts.
· The ‘Pride Seats’ that are installed across the Inner West
· Marrickville Town Hall which is a long-standing location for The Polly’s inclusive dances.
Its proposed to report on the final list of locations at the December 2025 Council meeting.
Timeline for Realisation
Council proposes launching the Inner West Pride Walk at the Feel the Love event in March 2026. This celebration will showcase key elements of the project, including the locations of national LGBTQIA+ historical significance, the detailed design of physical markers, stories highlighting pivotal moments and figures, and website information featuring Pride Walk locations and audio guides to enrich the visitor experience.
Works for the Inner West Pride Walk are proposed to commence after the launch in April 2026, with completion anticipated by August 2026.
|
Key Milestones |
Dates |
|
Update Report to December Council Meeting |
2 December 2025 |
|
Inner West Pride Walk Proposal |
Feel the Love Event 2026 (March 26) |
|
Inner West Pride Walk Construction Commencement |
April 2026 |
|
Inner West Pride Walk Completion |
August 2026 |
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
Initial quotations have been obtained for a range of styles and materials for the physical markers, to be considered in collaboration with community partners. The estimated cost to complete the project is in the order of $50,000 to $75,000.
A funding allocation from the Mainstreet Revitalisation Program has been made as per the Council resolution.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Hub - Funding sources and procurement strategy
Prepared By: Tim Brown - Capital Works Manager
Authorised By: Ryann Midei - Director Property and Major Projects
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive and note the report. |
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
4: Healthy, resilient and caring communities 5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The purpose of this report is to update Council on funding sources and procurement strategies for the delivery of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Hub at Camperdown Park.
The procurement of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Hub will be guided by a strategic, values-driven approach that places a strong emphasis on engaging Indigenous owned and operated businesses in alignment with Council’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Procurement Strategy.
A request for quotation to engage a project architect and design team was issued on 2 October 2025, with submissions closing on 28 October 2025. Invitations were extended to the original project architect responsible for the concept designs for the former Tempe Reserve site, as well as shortlisted suppliers from Supply Nation and NSW Indigenous Chamber of Commerce. Securing a project architect with strong connections to the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community is considered vital to the success of the project.
As the estimated cost for construction services is expected to exceed $250,000, an open tender process will be undertaken in accordance with the Local Government Act. To actively encourage the involvement of Indigenous businesses, the tender will also be promoted through Supply Nation.
The estimated cost for building remedial repairs and upgrades to create the Community Hub is $1,539,850. Funding will be sourced by consolidating existing budgets from the Aboriginal Community Hub (Tempe) and the Australia Street Hall, providing a total of $1.867 million. The financial plan allocates funds for design in FY25/26 and construction in FY26/27, with the project scheduled for completion by mid-2027.
Sufficient funds are available to support the project’s successful delivery.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 23 September 2025, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council notes the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Democracy Group’s endorsement at its meeting on 15 July 2025 of the building located adjacent to 24A Australia Street in Camperdown Park, as the preferred site for the proposed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Hub.
2. That Council endorse the building located adjacent to 24A Australia Street in Camperdown Park, as the site for the proposed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Hub.
3. That Council endorse proceeding with the commencement of concept designs and cost estimates for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Hub at Camperdown Park and ensure the inclusions in the initial concept design and site plan provided to Council at the December 2024 meeting are captured in these plans.
4. That Council endorse proceeding with concept designs and cost estimates for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Hub at Camperdown Park.
5. That Council calls for construction to be completed by mid 2027.
6. That Council preferences contracting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-run businesses, suppliers and products in the delivery of the hub.
7. That Council endorse the demolition of the former Tempe Jets Club building in Tempe Reserve in line with the Tempe Reserve Plan of Management, and demolition of the adjacent remote control racetrack, pending the following actions being taken:
a) Council write to Tempe residents notifying them of the necessity to demolish the Tempe Jets Club due to safety and other concerns, detailing the current state of the building and grounds, indicating the future projects for the land it sits on, and noting council’s work to upgrade the Robyn Webster Indoor Sports Centre and include community space as part of that project, subject to community consultation;
b) bring a report to Council before December 2025 outlining the future use of the land the Tempe Jets Club sits on and indicating clear proposals, costs and timeframes for future uses of the land; and
c) create a record of use at the site to recognise the significance of the Club to the Tempe community and work with local historians and artists to exhibit, publish or display this history, either online or in person at a point in the future.
8. That Council provides funding of $500,000 to be allocated as part of the first quarterly 2025/26 budget review for the demolition of the former Tempe Jets Club building and adjacent remote-control racetrack.
9. That Council notes the significant work done to date by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Democracy Group, community members and experts to develop a vision for an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Hub in the Inner West, thanks them for their work, and commits to their ongoing inclusion in these construction efforts.
10. That Council officers report back to the October 2025 Council meeting on potential funding sources and procurement strategies for an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Hub.
This report responds to point 10.
DISCUSSION
The procurement of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Hub will be guided by a strategic, values-driven approach that places a strong emphasis on engaging Indigenous owned and operated businesses in alignment with Council’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Procurement Strategy.
Council fosters partnerships with Supply Nation and the NSW Indigenous Chamber of Commerce (NSWICC) to ensure procurement processes are conducted in an ethical, culturally respectful, and socially responsible manner. Supply Nation maintains a verified database of Indigenous suppliers, promoting transparency and accountability in sourcing practices. The NSW Indigenous Chamber of Commerce NSWICC champions Indigenous economic participation and strengthens connections between Aboriginal enterprises and government procurement opportunities.
By leveraging these networks, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Hub Procurement Strategy will promote economic empowerment, enhance supplier diversity, and support sustainable growth within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
A request for quotation to engage a project architect and design team was issued on 2 October 2025, with submissions closing on 28 October 2025. Invitations were extended to the original project architect responsible for the concept designs for the former Tempe Reserve site, as well as shortlisted suppliers from Supply Nation and NSWICC. Securing a project architect with strong connections to the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community is considered vital to the success of the project.
As the estimated cost for construction services is expected to exceed $250,000, an open tender process will be undertaken in accordance with the Local Government Act. To actively encourage the involvement of Indigenous businesses, the tender will also be promoted through Supply Nation.
Project completion is targeted for mid-2027.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
It is estimated to cost $1,539,850 to undertake building remedial repairs and upgrades to
create the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Hub at Camperdown Park.
The funding for the development of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Hub will be allocated from two existing projects as follows:
|
Project |
Financial Year |
Total |
|
302657 - Aboriginal Community Hub - Tempe |
FY24/25 $1,067,000 |
$1,067,000 |
|
302613 – Australia Street Hall |
FY26/27 $400,000 FY27/28 $400,000 |
$800,000 |
|
|
Total |
$1,867,000 |
These project budgets will be consolidated into a single project and the phasing adjusted to allow for designs in FY25/26 and construction in FY26/27.
As such, sufficient funds are available to support the project’s successful delivery.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Town Hall Open Day Festival Update
Prepared By: Michael Daly - Creative Communities Manager
Authorised By: Ruth Callaghan - Director Community
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive and note the report. |
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
3: Creative communities and a strong economy |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
At the Council meeting held on 19 August 2025, Council approved the program and budget for the Town hall Open Day Festivals during 2025/2026 and 2026/2027. As requested by Council this report outlines how Inner West creatives will be engaged to activate Council spaces through the Town Hall Open Days program.
To ensure a uniquely Inner West program that also builds on the success of the Creative Town Halls work to date, three main elements will be used to develop specific content for each of the Town Hall Open Days:
1. Feedback from creatives who have participated in the Creative Town Hall program to date.
2. Qualitative and quantitative data on the most popular and specific use for each of the town halls and how each building has been best used for different art forms.
3. Input from Creative Practitioners the Arts and Culture Advisory committee and key stakeholders such as the Inner West Creative Network.
A proposed schedule for seven Town Hall Open Days is included, spanning the 2026 and 2027 financial years.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 19 August 2025, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council approve the program and budget proposed in this report to deliver the Town Hall Open Day program.
2. That Council provide funding of $105,000 to be allocated as part of the first quarterly budget review.
3. That funding of $105,000 form part of the 2026/27 budget consideration.
4. That Council receive a report to the October 2025 Council meeting outlining how the Open Day Festivals will engage local creative networks and the community to showcase the success of the Creative Town Halls Program.
At the Council meeting held on 22 October 2024, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council note the success of our Creative Town Halls project in activating seven town halls across the Inner West for free hire by creatives and local artists, with more than 700 applications in the first two months of the program.
2. That Council note that the Inner West is home to more artists and people employed in the creative industries than anywhere else in NSW, and that Council is committed to supporting local artists and creatives in our community.
3. That Council commit to establishing an annual program of Open Day Festivals across all seven town halls, showcasing local musicians and artists, and curated in consultation with the community and local creative industry stakeholders.
4. That Council receive a report at the February 2025 meeting detailing a proposal for an annual Town Hall Open Day Festivals program, including costs, to be developed in consultation with local artists and creative industry stakeholders, including:
a) the Inner West Creative Network;
b) the Arts and Culture Advisory Committee;
c) Attendees of the Arts and Live Music Recovery Summit; and
d) Participants in the Creative Town Halls project.
DISCUSSION
Program Content
The Town Hall Open Days will utilise current users of the successful Creative Uses of Town Halls program as well as data collected from that program to refine its content based on individual town halls. The Open Day program will also utilise other creative groups using the venues through the Community Venues bookings program.
The program will also align, where possible, with current Council events programs and will be delivered over a two-year cycle (2026/2027). By utilising Inner West creatives as program content providers, we would be creating a uniquely Inner West experience and showcasing local community creatives and Council’s programs for Inner West creatives.
Cultural sector key stakeholders such as the Inner West Creative Network, Arts and Culture Advisory Committee, attendees of the Arts and Live Music Recovery Summit and participants in the Creative Uses of Town Halls program, will be consulted as part of planning and content delivery.
Utilising Data Collected from Creative Uses of Town Hall Program
Based on data collected through the Creative Uses of Town Hall program, the prominent uses of the town hall spaces include theatre, music, film, dance, visual art as well as comedy, cabaret and writing.
By focusing on current users, this will be an opportunity for the Open Days program to be a showcase for both Inner West Creatives and the Creative Uses of Town Hall program as well as other creative bookings for Council’s spaces.
Each town hall has a unique characteristic and has Inner West creatives using the space in different ways and these will be reflected in program for open days.
For example, Leichhardt Town Hall has had a larger number of film activities due to the facilities available in that space, Annandale Town Hall has had a focus on visual art activities compared to other venues and this could be a focus for this space. The highest number of dance bookings have taken place at Balmain Town Hall with this being a potential feature. Music and theatre are well represented in many of the venues and as a result these art forms will feature in most of the Open Days, particularly Marrickville.
Potential schedule for Open Day festivals
|
Venue |
Proposed date
|
Festival |
|
St Peters Town Hall Open Day |
26 April 2026 |
2044 Park Takeover |
|
Leichhardt Town Hall Open Day |
July 2026 |
Not currently aligned to an event |
|
Balmain Town Hall Open Day |
29 November 2026 |
Festival of Balmain |
|
Ashfield Town Hall Open Day |
February 2027 |
Lunar New Year Celebrations |
|
Petersham Town Hall Open Day |
May 2027 |
Not currently aligned to an event |
|
Marrickville Town Hall Open Day |
October 2027 |
Marrickville Music Festival |
|
Annandale Town Hall Open Day |
November 2027 |
Not currently aligned to an event |
It should be noted that the dates above have been determined around existing Council events, the availability of the venue (so as not to negatively impact community bookings) and planned capital works.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
A budget of $110,000 over the 2025-26 and 2026-27 financial years was allocated by Council at the 19 August 2025 Council meeting.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Improvement of facilities at Dawn Fraser Baths
Prepared By: Simon Duck - Senior Manager Aquatics and Recreation
Authorised By: Ruth Callaghan - Director Community
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive and note the report. |
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
4: Healthy, resilient and caring communities |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
At the Council meeting held on 18 February 2025, Council noted the success of the $8 million heritage restoration to Dawn Fraser Baths (DFB) and requested a report on actions taken to install lockers and improve the on-site kiosk food and beverage offerings to enhance the amenity of the baths for the community. This was to include the potential for a coffee cart or temporary takeaway facility for the 2025/2026 swimming season.
Following the Council's resolution, there has been a thorough review, and the actions are being implemented. An order has been made for the supply of 28 marine-grade lockers in different sizes at a cost of $9,000, which is being allocated from the adopted operating budget for 2025/2026. The lockers will be installed under the awning adjacent to the entry/reception area, and staff will assist customers with free access via key.
Food and beverage provision has also been extensively reviewed. Historically, there has been little interest from external providers in operating the kiosk and/or a temporary coffee cart as the physical setup of the site is small and limited due to power supply, preparation space, and other issues detailed in this report. The seasonal nature of the baths also makes it difficult to guarantee commercial income. As a result of the recent review, the Council will continue to operate the kiosk "in house" with new refrigeration and hot frying equipment and a better range of external suppliers of fresh goods. This greatly improved food and beverage offer is slowly being introduced to ensure it is all operational for school holidays and the peak summer swimming season. A full range of hot and cold food, snacks, and weekend BBQs will be in place by the end of November, with details set out below. Bookings for community and private use of Dawn Fraser Baths are gradually increasing within the requirements of the DA (which precludes some activities such as weddings).
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 18 February 2025, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council note the success of the $8 million heritage restoration to Dawn Fraser Baths.
2. That Council prepare a report detailing costs, recommended location and numbers of lockers that could be established at the Baths, to be tabled at the April 2025 Council Meeting.
3. That Council review the food and beverage offerings at Dawn Fraser Baths and investigate opportunities for improvement with a view to establishing a new offering for the public in time for the 2025/26 Summer Season. This should include examination of all options including the use of a coffee cart or temporary takeaway facility during the summer season.
4. That Council identify how more community and private events such as film screenings, weddings and celebratory events can be held at the Baths. Options for how to facilitate and promote this are to be tabled in the report to the April Council meeting.
DISCUSSION
Council’s resolutions from the 18 February 2025 meeting have been actioned and the details are set out below.
Lockers
Twenty-eight marine-grade lockers suitable for saltwater conditions at the baths have been ordered at a cost of $9000 within the existing operating budget. There are two sized lockers: bag-sized (for bags and towels) and small (for wallets and phones) that will be installed under the awning close to the reception area. Staff will support patrons with access keys free of charge consistent with other Aquatics Facilities.
Kiosk services
Historically, food and beverage offerings for the community have been limited due to the operational constraints on site. These include limited storeroom and cold storage capacity, the inability to accommodate a grease trap, a compact service area with minimal food preparation space, and restricted delivery access. External providers have not been interested in operating the space due to these constraints and the seasonal operations of the baths which are closed for six months of the year.
To date, Council staff have been responsible for providing kiosk services “in house” using pre prepared food. To address these limitations and enhance service quality, Council has procured new equipment, currently being installed:
· A larger fridge to support expanded drink and fresh food storage
· A stand-alone small batch deep fryer for hot chips and fried items
· A BBQ for bacon and egg rolls and sausage sandwiches during peak periods such as Saturday mornings, summer holidays, and special events
· A double slushy machine for flavoured ice drinks
· A small ice machine to support iced coffee and chocolate offerings
Since opening for the 2025/26 season in early October, and the installation of the new equipment, Council has procured a broader range of fresh and healthier options, including pre-made sandwiches, salads, pastries, and snacks (muesli bars, protein balls, muffins, etc).
Stock levels and staffing will be adjusted in response to community demand and seasonal usage to minimise waste. For example, food offerings will be expanded on weekends and during the peak summer holidays between December and February and scaled back in March and April.
“In-house” kiosk operation is incorporated into the responsibilities of team members rostered for reception and lifeguard duties. To maintain service quality during peak periods and weekends, dedicated kiosk staff will be deployed to support lifeguards and operational teams.
In anticipation of increased demand during key events, hot weather, and the summer school holiday period, product supply and menu offerings will be reviewed and adjusted accordingly.
Special Events
Planned events for the 2025–26 swimming season include:
|
Event |
Description |
|
Model/miniature harbour working boat open day (September 2025)
|
External hirer using the DFB as a venue for miniature boat function |
|
Junior Lifesavers Saturday sessions (December- March 2025-26)
|
Event and program delivered by IWC Aquatics and Recreation team. |
|
Water polo Christmas party (December 2025)
|
Annual event delivered by IWC affiliated sporting club Balmain Water Polo. |
|
Water polo Junior Gala 3-day event – u12s NSW carnival (January 2026)
|
Annual event delivered by IWC affiliated sporting club Balmain Water Polo. |
|
Junior Lifesavers end of season carnival (March 2026)
|
Event and program delivered by IWC Aquatics and Recreation team. Celebration of the Junior Lifesaving program held December – March. |
|
DFB Open air movie night (February 2026)
|
Event and program delivered by IWC Aquatics and Recreation team. |
|
DFB open day – ‘Splash Day’ (March 2026) |
Event and program delivered by IWC Aquatics and Recreation team. Free community access, including food and drinks and BBQ on the deck and entertainment. |
Dawn Fraser Baths as a venue for hire
The hire of DFB as a venue is constrained by the D.A, which stipulates recreational use. The site is available for small gatherings such children’s birthday parties, corporate-style meetings, photo shoots, filming, and other general events associated with recreational use during designated periods. These include:
· The closure/off-peak period
· Weekday shared usage outside peak summer times (i.e. October to early December, and March to April)
Event and private use of the facility is subject to a range of operational and safety considerations. These include restrictions on the use of glass, controls to minimise excessive noise or amplified music, limitations on the time of day and duration of functions and ensuring minimal impact on general community access to the facility.
Promotion of the Baths as a bookable venue is ongoing, with a focus on increasing community awareness. Marketing channels include the Council website, social media updates, member and customer communications, and outreach through affiliated user groups such as Water Polo and Swimming.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
The purchase of 28 lockers at a cost of $9,000 is within the operating budget for 2025/2026. Purchase of new equipment for the kiosk is being funded through operational budget.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Local Democracy Groups Six Monthly Progress Update
Prepared By: Prue Foreman - Corporate Strategy and Engagement Manager
Authorised By: Ruth Callaghan - Director Community
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive and note the report. |
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Council has established 14 Local Democracy Groups for the 2024-28 term, comprising community members who provide input to support Council’s decision-making and actions.
This report updates Council on the deliberations of Local Democracy Groups for the period 1 March - 30 September 2025.
Following a welcome event on 13 March 2025 and induction training on 26 March 2025, groups commenced meetings. In June 2025, Council endorsed policy challenges for the groups to deliberate during the term and these deliberations are well underway. During the period to 30 September 2025, Council convened a total of 44 meetings across the 14 LDGS. A detailed report outlining each LDG’s progress is available in Attachment 1.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 17 June 2025, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council endorse policy challenges for the Local Democracy Groups to deliberate on during the term.
2. That progress on the policy challenges will be reported to Council every six months.
DISCUSSION
Local Democracy Group (LDG) meetings for the new term commenced with the first held by the Bicycle LDG on 25 March 2025. During the period to 30 September 2025, Council convened a total of 44 meetings across the 14 LDGS. A detailed report outlining each LDG’s progress is available in Attachment 1.
In addition to individual meetings, Council invited LDG members to provide input to an upgrade of the precinct around Sydenham Road, Marrickville. Fourteen members from various groups participated in a ‘walkshop’ along Sydenham Road, on Wednesday 19 March 2025. Members took part in a guided walk and shared their insights and feedback to help shape future improvements.
In June 2025, Council invited all LDG members to participate in a workshop on the Our Fairer Future Plan, which will deliver more diverse and affordable housing by concentrating development around town centres and transport hubs. Their expertise and feedback helped shape the final version of the proposal, which has now been adopted by Council.
Overview of meetings held and discussions for each LDG
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
Meetings held: 4
Discussion Highlights:
· Development of new Reconciliation Action Plan and embedding commitments into policy;
· Preferred location for Aboriginal Community Hub at Camperdown; and
· Various Council projects including Camdenville Park, Callan Park Swim Site, Koori Knockout live streaming, and Survival Memorials.
Access
Meetings held: 3
Discussion Highlights:
· Disability Inclusion Action Plan progress and achievements; and
· Various Council projects including Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre upgrade, inclusive playgrounds, e-bike strategy, and GreenWay.
Arts and Culture
Meetings held: 3
Discussion Highlights:
· Design of creative programs including Creative Toolbox Symposium;
· Planned renewal of the Cultural Strategy;
· Sustainability of the sector; and
· Feedback on Chrissie Cotter Gallery.
Bicycle
Meetings held: 3
Discussion Highlights:
· Various strategic projects underway including the Blue-Green Grid and Our Fairer Future Plan;
· Revising cycling network map and Action Plan; and
· Proposed bike links from the existing network Action Plan in northern Ashfield and Haberfield, and Marrickville Road east.
Customer Experience
Meetings held: 3
Discussion Highlights:
· Customer Experience strategy and priorities and digital transformation initiatives;
· Complaints handling and service improvements;
· Accessibility, plain English, and community impact; and
· Major service improvements, including Development Assessment, Public Trees, and Payable for online payments.
Environment
Meetings held: 3
Discussion Highlights:
· Inner West Litter Prevention Roadmap;
· Circular Economy Roundtable and zero waste goals;
· Inner West Sustainability Hub events and planned walking tour; and
· Great Inner West Walk.
Housing for All
Meetings held: 4
Discussion Highlights:
· Overview of housing in the Inner West;
· Presentation on Our Fairer Future Plan including including masterplan, residential review and other amendments; and
· Input on Our Fairer Future Plan collated into a single submission.
LGBTQ+
Meetings held: 3
Discussion Highlights:
· Fostering allyship, visibility, and pride including Pride Centre Honour Roll event;
· Communication and outreach including Council’s LGBTQ+ Updates e-news;
· Amplifying Pride Centre activities through intergenerational and inclusive events and outreach strategies; and
· Feel the Love, Inner West Pride Walk and other council resolutions.
Multicultural
Meetings held: 3
Discussion Highlights:
· Anti-Racism Strategy including Bystander training;
· Input to Council’s International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination Expression of Interest documentation; and
· Elder abuse awareness and culturally appropriate resources.
Seniors
Meetings held: 3
Discussion Highlights:
· Healthy Ageing Strategy, communication strategies and digital inclusion;
· Loneliness reduction strategies;
· Inclusive playgrounds and the Hannaford Centre’s current program model; and
· Role of intergenerational programs and digital literacy in supporting social inclusion.
Small Business
Meetings held: 3
Discussion Highlights:
· Draft Economic Development Strategy initiatives;
· Council’s Tourism Action Plan; and
· Activation of Special Entertainment Precincts.
Social Strategy
Meetings held: 3
Discussion Highlights:
· Reconciliation Action Plan, Disability Inclusion Action Plan, Anti-Racism Strategy and the Healthy Ageing Strategy;
· Resilience and wellbeing strategy development approach including social inclusivity and participation, accessibility and affordability, and emergency preparedness; and
· Community Engagement Strategy, Gambling Harm Minimisation forum, Urban Heat preparedness work, Bystander training.
Transport
Meetings held: 3
Discussion Highlights:
· Policy challenge suggestions including congestion pricing and encouragement of local employment and cycling to reduce traffic congestion and car use;
· Input to draft Inner West Parking Strategy; and
· Input to Great Inner West Walk.
Young Leaders
Meetings held: 3
Discussion Highlights:
· Input to the Children and Young People Strategy development;
· Input to the Youth Voice Summit planning’
· Input to youth engagement in library programs and inclusive playgrounds; and
· Input to Climate Strategy.
Please refer to Attachment 1 for full details of meetings.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with this report.
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1.⇩ |
Local Democracy Groups Progress Report 1 March-30 September 2025 |
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Tourism Action Plan Bi-Monthly Report
Prepared By: Daniel East - Senior Manager Strategic Planning
Authorised By: Simone Plummer - Director Planning
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RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive and note the report.
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
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3: Creative communities and a strong economy |
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The report provides an update on the implementation of actions from the Tourism Action Plan. An action in the Tourism Plan is to develop an advertising strategy to build awareness of tourism experiences that are available in the inner west to better position the LGA as a visitor destination. The strategy uses a range of media including print, digital/social media and advertising on public transport and will target domestic and international markets and out of area visitors.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting on 19 August 2025, Council resolved the following:
That Council adopt the amended Advertising Strategy as outlined in Table 1 of this report.
DISCUSSION
Below outlines work being implemented from the Tourism Action Plan.
Tourism wayfinding
Council has been investigating the potential location of wayfinding (Plinths or Directional fingerboards) and the main tourist attractions in the three locations “Sydenham/Marrickville, Balmain/Rozelle, and Newtown/Enmore”. The following attractions may be covered on the wayfinding signs:
· Council libraries and Town Halls
· Theatres and cinemas
· Indoor and outdoor live music venues
· Eat streets and commercial shopping centres
· Parks and open spaces
· Art galleries and public arts
· Tourist walks and trails:
- Public art walks (e.g. Self-Guided Inner West Street Art Walk)
- Pub crawl or visits (e.g. Balmain Rozelle Heritage Pub Trail)
- Tourist attraction walks (e.g. Tom Uren Trail)
· Transportation (train, metro, light rail stations and ferry stops)
· Public car parks
· Emergency services
Master Plan and Design:
· The design is to consider the IWC Signage and Wayfinding Guidelines, also the recently installed wayfinding of the Ale Trail.
· Integration of digital components (QR codes/maps) linking to tourism information (e.g., Destination Inner West).
Advertising Strategy
Council’s internal Communications Team is developing a content plan, based on a mix of paid media and print, digital influencers and paid social media.
The plan focuses on two key areas:
· This is the Inner West – content showcasing how to spend a day in the Inner West, including highlighting our Special Entertainment Precincts and key council services like aquatics centres, playgrounds, skate parks and more.
· Spring/Summer festivals and key events – engaging influencers to attend key events and post content, which can also then be reused in future promotion.
The campaign will focus on boosting recognition of the Inner West logo and brand, and therefore separate branding will not be developed.
A number of influencers have been identified as possible collaborators and the Communications Team is currently reaching out to talk about rates and interest.
The first phase of content in each category will be “This is the Inner West”. Five initial videos will be developed, with a mixture of influencer collaborations and boosted content, with one based in each ward. Each will highlight a different aspect of life in the inner west, including:
· AM club: run clubs, cycleways, cafes, open spaces
· PM club: nightlife, Ale and Distillery Trails, Special Entertainment Precincts
· Families: a day spent in the Inner West including libraries, playgrounds, walks
· Summer is sorted: review of aquatic centre,
· Hobbies: Top Skate parks, bike tracks in the Inner West
Note: content theme may evolve as collaborators come on board.
There will also be a focus on key festivals and events. Influencers are being approached for two – three upcoming events over summer.
After this initial phase is underway, the strategy will be assessed and any adjustments made before rolling out further content, including paid print and media and additional social media.
Self-guided walking tour
An allocation of $10,000 towards development of a self-guided walking tour of Perfect Match and local artists studios has been made available to the Creative Programs team to implement this action. The team are currently exploring options for the best walkable self-guided tour sites, as well as methods of online content delivery.
Inner West Distillers
An Inner West Distillery Trail has been developed and was launched on 28 August. Feedback from the distillers has been positive with the launch attracting a range of media coverage including:
· Destination NSW featured the Distillery Trail in their spring promotion.
· Tourism Australia - The Hot List September 2025 Food & Drink
· Daily Telegraph – Party Confidential 31 August
· Drinks Digest – Craft Cocktails Down Under September 2025
· Drinks Trade – August 2025
· Hospitality Magazine - September 2025
· SITCHU Sydney – Eat & Drink September 2025
· Sydney Travel Guide - September 2025
· Ciao – Life in the Inner West September 2025
· Time Out Sydney – - September 2025
The trail will help direct visitors to the distilleries making it easy for them to plan their tour.
Inner West Brewers Association
As per resolution of 19 August 2025, a grant totalling $10,000 has been made available to Inner West Brewers Association member venues. There are 14 Inner West Brewers Association member venues which means each brewery can apply for $750 under the Inner West Brewers Grant. Funds can be used in local breweries to promote visitation, showcase live music and activate dining zones. This could include engaging a local musician to play live music, enhancing accessibility in outdoor dining area or to improve the outdoor dining experience. Collateral for this is nearing completion, for launch in preparation for Christmas and summer.
Ale Trail Wayfinding Signage
Staff worked with the Inner West Brewers Association on an Ale Trail wayfinding project. The signage has been installed and will help visitors navigate the trail and build future demand in the visitor economy.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Mandatory Reporting to Council of Reports Received from Fire & Rescue NSW
Prepared By: Michael Ryan - Senior Manager, Health & Building
Authorised By: Simone Plummer - Director Planning
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RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive and note the report.
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
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4: Healthy, resilient and caring communities |
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, when an inspection report is received by Council from Fire and Rescue New South Wales (FRNSW), Council must table this report and recommendations at the next meeting of the Council. Council has received a report for the following five properties:
· 99 Lilyfield Road, Lilyfield - report received from FRNSW on 18/9/25 (Attachment 1).
· 52 West Street, Petersham - report received from FRNSW on 02/9/25 (Attachment 2).
· 128 Addison Road, Marrickville - report received from FRNSW on 20/8/25 (Attachment 3).
· 402 Liverpool Road, Croydon - report received from FRNSW on 07/8/25 (Attachment 4).
· 307 King Street, Newtown - report received from FRNSW on 22/5/25 (Attachment 5).
DISCUSSION
99 Lilyfield Road, Lilyfield
This is a six (6) storey residential apartment building.
The property was inspected by FRNSW’s Fire Safety Compliance Unit on 31 July 2025. Council received the inspection report from FRNSW on 18 September 2025 (Attachment 1).
The report identified the following concerns/issues:
i. Screen doors fitted to unit entry doors.
ii. Fire doors chocked open.
iii. Bicycles obstructing path of travel to an exit.
iv. Fire hydrant boost and test pressure signage not provided.
v. Fire hydrant warning sign and pressure gauge not provided.
vi. Annual Fire Safety Statement (AFSS) not displayed.
Following receipt of the report from FRNSW, Council’s Senior Fire Safety Officer contacted the owner of the property and informed them of the above issues. A site inspection of the premises was conducted on 26 September 2025. As a result of that inspection Council’s Senior Fire Safety Officer deemed there was no need to issue a Notice of Intent to issue a Development Control Order, as the items had been addressed. The premises is on Council’s Fire Safety Register.
52 West Street, Petersham
This is a two (2) storey residential apartment building.
FRNSW received correspondence on 20 and 22 November 2024 regarding the adequacy of fire safety in the building.
The property was inspected by FRNSW’s Fire Safety Compliance Unit on 24 July 2025. Council received the inspection report from FRNSW on 2 September 2025 (Attachment 2).
The report identified the following concerns/issues:
i. Type of construction required.
ii. Protection of openings in external walls.
iii. Bounding construction between apartments.
iv. Electrical meter board located in the path of travel to an exit.
v. Final exit door swings against the direction of egress.
vi. No lever handle mechanism fitted to the security gate.
vii. No exit signage.
viii. No smoke alarms in common areas.
ix. Annual Fire Safety Statement (AFSS) not displayed.
Following receipt of the report from FRNSW, Council’s Fire Safety Officer inspected the premises on 8 September 2025. As a result of the inspection a Notice of Intent to Serve a Development Control Order (EPA/2025/0155) was issued. The Notice requires the owner to engage an appropriately qualified Registered Certifier to undertake a Building Code of Australia audit of the building. Once the non-compliances have been rectified and a Final Fire Safety Certificate has been submitted the building will have an appropriate level of fire safety and inspection regime to ensure occupant safety. At the completion of the work and the submission of the certificate the premises will be added to Council’s Fire Safety Register.
128 Addison Road, Marrickville
This is a two (2) storey mixed commercial and residential building.
FRNSW received correspondence, regarding the obstruction of fire exits, storage of combustible material adjacent to plant equipment, and access to plant equipment posing an emergency risk.
The property was inspected by FRNSW’s Fire Safety Compliance Unit on 23 July 2025. Council received the inspection report from FRNSW on 20 August 2025 (Attachment 3).
The report identified the following concerns/issues:
i. Means of egress from the residential units blocked by tables and chairs used by the ground floor café.
ii. External doorway not fitted with a lever handle mechanism.
iii. Balustrade to first floor balcony less than 1000mm in height.
iv. Annual Fire Safety Statement (AFSS) not displayed.
Following receipt of the report from FRNSW, Council’s Senior Fire Safety Officer inspected the premises on 22 August 2025. As a result of the inspection a Notice of Intent to Serve a Development Control Order (EPA/2025/0156) was issued. The Notice requires the owner to engage an appropriately qualified Registered Certifier to undertake a Building Code of Australia audit of the building. Once the non-compliances have been rectified and a Final Fire Safety Certificate has been submitted the building will have an appropriate level of fire safety and an inspection regime to ensure occupant safety. At the completion of the work and the submission of the certificate the premises will be added to Council’s Fire Safety Register.
402 Liverpool Road, Croydon
This is a two and three storey residential apartment complex.
FRNSW received correspondence on 5 December 2024, regarding the adequacy of fire safety in connection with the premises.
The property was inspected by FRNSW’s Fire Safety Compliance Unit on 9 April 2025. Council received the inspection report from FRNSW on 7 August 2025 (Attachment 4).
The report identified the following concerns/issues:
i. Emergency lighting was not installed in the common areas of the front building.
ii. Extended travel distance to the rear building.
iii. Signage to the Fire Hydrant Booster was not installed.
iv. Signage to distinguish which is the hydrant and sprinkler booster not installed.
v. Fire Hydrant block plan difficult to read.
vi. Unable to located fire hydrant logbooks.
vii. Identification signage to sprinkler booster enclosure missing.
viii. Maximum allowable pressure signage at booster assembly not installed.
ix. Sprinkler control valves were in the closed position instead of the open position.
x. Doors leading to the pump room not fitted with 003 locks.
xi. Annual Fire Safety Statement (AFSS) not displayed in a prominent location.
Following receipt of the report from FRNSW, Council’s Senior Fire Safety Officer attempted to inspect the premises on 26 August 2025 but was unable to due to security measures. A copy of FRNSW’s report was sent to the Strata Manager and access to the premises was gained on 25 September 2025. At the time of the inspection the identified issues had been resolved. The premises is listed on Council’s Fire Safety Register.
307 King Street, Newtown
This is a three storey mixed commercial and residential building.
FRNSW received correspondence on 8 May 2025, regarding the adequacy of fire safety in connection with the building, specifically related to exposed wiring and lack of smoke alarms
The property was inspected by FRNSW’s Fire Safety Compliance Unit on 20 May 2025. Council received the inspection report from FRNSW on 22 May 2025 (Attachment 5).
The report identified the following concerns/issues:
i. Working smoke alarms generally not installed in the building.
ii. Emergency lighting not installed in the residential component of the building.
iii. Unclear whether building is appropriately fire compartmented.
iv. Annual Fire Safety Statement (AFSS) not displayed.
v. Clarification of the building classification and use, which may result in the need for additional fire safety measures to be installed.
Upon receipt the FRNSW report was sent directly to the Council’s Team Leader Fire Safety who was at the time on extended annual leave. This has caused the delay in the officer inspecting the premises. It has also revealed a document handling process flaw which has since been resolved through a process review and change.
Following return from leave Council’s Team Leader Fire Safety inspected the premises on 8 October 2025. The ground floor commercial tenancy is currently vacant. The first floor of the building is used by the owners as their residence, while the second floor is sublet as four separate residential tenancies with shared bathroom and kitchen facilities. During the course of the inspection unauthorised building works were noted. As the matter involves unauthorised building works and an unauthorised land use the matter has been referred to Council’s Development Compliance Team to investigate. Council will require interim fire safety measures to enhance the level of fire safety for the occupants while the other non-compliances are considered.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
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1.⇩ |
Letter Out - Inspection Report - 99 Lilyfield Road Lilyfield |
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2.⇩ |
Letter Out - Inspection Report - 52 West Street Petersham |
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3.⇩ |
Letter Out - Inspection Report - 128 Addison Road Marrickville |
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4.⇩ |
Letter Out - Inspection Report - 402 Liverpool Road Croydon |
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5.⇩ |
Letter Out - Inspection Report - 307 King Street Newtown |
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Booth Street connection to White Bay Cruise Ship Terminal - Tourist Path and Active Transport Link
Prepared By: Manod Wickramasinghe - Traffic and Transport Planning Manager
Authorised By: Peter Shields - Director Engineering
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RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive and note the report. |
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
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2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport |
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|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In accordance with Council’s resolution of 11 March 2025, The Ports Authority of NSW has been approached regarding collaboration on creating a safe and accessible facility for pedestrians and cyclists from Robert Street, Rozelle to Booth Street, Balmain and for the provision of an information kiosk at White Bay Cruise Terminal.
The Ports Authority of NSW have advised that, due to their White Bay Cruise Terminal Shore Power project work being undertaken until the end of 2026, the provision of infrastructure works in this area in the short term may present safety and logistical challenges.
However, the Ports Authority is committed to working with Council to develop a medium to long term strategy for improved access and for the provision of an information kiosk at White Bay Cruise Terminal.
An initial review of options for an active transport corridor along Robert Street to Booth Street, Balmain (via White Bay Cruise Terminal), has been considered and are outlined in this report.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 11 March 2025, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council write to the Port Authority requesting:
a) commitment to collaborating with Council to create a safe and accessible passage for pedestrians and cyclists from Robert Street to Booth Street;
b) confirm the timeline for granting this access; and
c) schedule a meeting with Council to discuss the configuration of the access and the Council’s role in this project. Consider possible designs and allocations of costs to create an Active Transport Path on Port Authority land.
2. That Council liaise with the Port Authority and the Balmain Rozelle Chamber of Commerce to establish an unmanned kiosk at the White Bay Cruise Terminal. The kiosk should provide maps and information about Balmain to attract more tourists.
3. That Council investigate and report back on the estimated costs to convert the lower Booth Street Road Reserve (from Donnelly Street to Port Authority Gate) into a suitable Active Transport Corridor.
4. That Council explore potential funding sources and provide costs involved in installing appropriate way-finding signage for tourists traveling from central Darling Street to White Bay and from East Balmain Ferry Wharf to White Bay.
5. That Council prepare a report for the July 2025 meeting, summarising the outcome of the Port Authority correspondence and providing estimated costs for the following projects:
a) Kiosk;
b) Way-finding signage; and
c) Converting lower Booth Street to an Active Transport corridor.
DISCUSSION
In May 2025, Council received a report which considered an active transport link in Robert Street, connecting from the White Bay Power Station to Buchanan Street, Rozelle. A separated bicycle route along this section of Robert Street requires the conversion of existing angle parking spaces on Port Authority of NSW land to parallel spaces and removal of some parallel parking spaces.
Council has collaborated with Transport for NSW and Placemaking NSW to ensure this plan could be integrated with the traffic signal design currently being undertaken for the intersection of Robert Street and Mullens Street, Rozelle. Council has also requested that the NSW Government incorporate the design concepts for the potential Robert Street cycling link into the reconfiguration of the White Bay Power Station entrance.
A separated cycleway continuing from Robert Street through the White Bay Cruise Terminal, and to Booth Street Reserve and Gladstone Park would require the following works (Attachment 1), which would be subject to further design investigation and stakeholder engagement.
Robert Street – Mullens Street to Buchanan Street:
· Two-way separated cycleway along south side of street, 3 metre wide
· Convert angle parking on south side of street to 2.1 metre wide parallel parking
· Separation kerb 0.9m wide to provide buffer between bicycles and parking
· Removal of existing landscaped kerb islands on the south side of the street
· Parking capacity on south side of street reduced from 126 spaces to 58 spaces
· Parking capacity on the north side remains unchanged at 68 spaces
· Construction of a raised bicycle crossing to prioritise bicycles at Buchanan Street
· Connection and upgrade to existing bicycle shared path along the Port Access Road (extension of Robert Street)
· No loss of on-street parking on north side of street.
Booth Street – Robert Street to Palmer Street:
· Two-way pedestrian and bicycle shared path, 3 to 4 metre width
· Remove gate and guardrails at Donnelly Street intersection and replace with modal filter treatment
· Remove gate at lower Booth Street and replace with removable bollards, line marking 3m wide path linking to existing shared path along Port Access Road
· Raised intersection treatment at Booth Street, Palmer Street and Donnelly Street intersection.
Booth Street - Palmer Street to Gladstone Park, either:
· Option 1: Two-way separated bicycle lane 2.4m wide on the west side, including 0.4m separation kerb to provide buffer between bicycles and traffic. This will require the removal of approximately 20 on-street parking spaces on the west side. This option achieves an entirely separated bicycle route from Gladstone Park to the CBD.
· Option 2: Quietway treatment consisting of a reduced 30km/h speed limit and entry and exit surface texture elements and traffic calming
At Gladstone Park:
· Proposed changes to existing raised pedestrian crossing to include bicycle crossing
· Upgrade line marking to indicate Shared Path within Gladstone Park
The route will be designed in accordance with Transport for NSW’s Cycleway Design Toolbox, including relevant wayfinding signs at intersections. It is expected that the route will improve active transport connections to Balmain and as well as citybound commutes from Balmain and Rozelle.
Challenges associated with the project include achieving community acceptance of the proposed infrastructure, which will include the loss of 68 on-street parking spaces in Robert Street and 20 on-street parking spaces in Booth Street (Option 1).
The Port Authority of NSW have advised that, due to their White Bay Cruise Terminal Shore Power project work being undertaken until the end of 2026, the provision of cycleway infrastructure works in this area may present safety and logistical challenges in the short term. The Ports Authority is committed to collaborating with Council to develop a medium to long term strategy for improved access, including consideration of active transport corridors and the potential use of Booth Street. The Port Authority of NSW also advise that they are open to working with Council on opportunities such as the provision of an information kiosk at White Bay Cruise Terminal.
Further meetings with the Port Authority of NSW are being arranged to progress these discussions.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
The cost of associated with an active transport connection would be subject to detailed design. However, it is estimated that a separated cycleway on Robert Street could cost from $2-2.5M. A pedestrian and cycle link from Robert Street to Gladstone Park via Booth Street is estimated to cost a further $1-2M depending on the final design methodology. An associated wayfinding project would cost approximately $5,000. Funding for these works may come from several sources:
· Section 7.11 funds ($2M currently allocated)
· Grant Funding, such as Get NSW Active Grant fund
· Ports Authority of NSW
· Inner West Council Capital Funding
Capital costs for an unmanned kiosk positioned close to the port designed to provide information for tourists could be either:
· Option A - $30,000 - An interactive 65 inch kiosk providing on-demand information.
· Option B - $10,000 - Static information panel and pamphlets
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1.⇩ |
Robert Street to Booth Street cycleway plan |
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2.⇩ |
Port Authority response to IWC |
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Designated Persons Disclosures of Pecuniary Interest Returns 2024-2025
Prepared By: Julian Sakarai - Senior Manager Governance and Risk
Authorised By: Sharon Bowman - Director Corporate
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RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive and note the report. |
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
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5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The purpose of this report is to table the Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest Returns 2024-2025 lodged by Councillors and nominated staff members as required by Council’s Code of Conduct.
BACKGROUND
The Local Government Act 1993 requires Council’s Code of Conduct to include provisions for disclosure of pecuniary interests by Councillors and nominated staff members.
Clause 4.21 of the Code of Conduct requires Councillors and nominated staff members to complete a Pecuniary Interest Return (Return) within 3 months after 30 June each year. Councillors and nominated staff must also submit updated Returns if/when they become aware of any changes that may affect their previously submitted Returns. The General Manager is required under clause 4.25 of the Code of Conduct to table Returns at the first meeting of Council after the Returns are lodged.
DISCUSSION
The attached Returns have been submitted by Councillors and nominated staff members in accordance with the requirements of Council’s Code of Conduct. The disclosures in the Returns operate as a key transparency mechanism for promoting community confidence in Council decision making, whether by Councillors or by staff.
Councillor Mat Howard and Councillor Olivia Barlow each made and lodged an updated Return within the 3 months prior to 30 June 2025. They are therefore not required to submit an annual Return for the year ending 30 June 2025 (as per clause 4.22(a) of the Code of Conduct).
The information contained in the Returns is made publicly available in accordance with the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009, the Government Information (Public Access) Regulation 2018 and guidelines issued by the Information Commissioner. Certain personal information has been redacted in the attached Returns in accordance with this requirement.
The attached redacted Returns will be made available on Council’s website following this meeting.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the recommendation outlined in this report.
Attachment 31 has been published separately in the Attachments Document on Council’s Website https://www.innerwest.nsw.gov.au/about/the-council/council-meetings/current-council-meetings
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1.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Clr Andrew Blake_redacted |
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2.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Clr Dylan Griffiths_redacted |
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3.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Clr Ismet Tastan_redacted |
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4.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Clr Izabella Antoniou_redacted |
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5.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Clr Jessica D'Arienzo_redacted |
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6.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Clr Jo Carlisle_redacted |
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7.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Clr John Stamolis_redacted |
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8.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Clr Justine Langford_redacted |
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9.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Clr Kerrie Fergusson_redacted |
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10.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Clr Kobi Shetty_redacted |
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11.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Clr Liz Atkins_redacted |
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12.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Clr Marghanita Da Cruz_redacted |
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13.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Clr Mark Drury_redacted |
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14.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Clr Pauline Lockie_redacted |
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15.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Clr Philippa Scott_redacted |
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16.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Clr Tim Stephens_redacted |
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17.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Clr Vic Macri_redacted |
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18.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Clr Vicki Clay_redacted |
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19.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Clr Vittoria Raciti_redacted |
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20.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Clr Zoi Tsardoulias_redacted |
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21.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Deputy Mayor Chloe Smith_redacted |
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22.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Mayor Darcy Byrne_redacted |
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23.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Beau-Jane De Costa_redacted |
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24.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Matthew Pearce_redacted |
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25.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Peter Gainsford_redacted |
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26.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Ruth Callaghan_redacted |
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27.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Ryann Midei_redacted |
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28.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Simone Plummer_redacted |
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29.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests First Returns Sharon Bowman_redacted |
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30.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests First Returns Peter Shields_redacted |
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31.⇨ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Staff Returns |
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Rescheduling of November and December 2025 Council meetings
From: Councillor Philippa Scott
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MOTION
1. That Council reschedule the Ordinary Council Meeting on 11 November 2025 to 18 November 2025.
2. That Council reschedule the Ordinary Council Meeting on 2 December 2025 to 9 December 2025.
3. That Council publish these changes to the Inner West Council Meeting Schedule on Council’s website.
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Background
Section 365 of the Local Government Act 1993 requires Council to meet at least 10 times a year, each time in a different month.
Clause 3.1 of Council’s Code of Meeting Practice requires Council to set the frequency, time, date and place of its Ordinary Meetings by resolution.
Council at its meeting on 3 December 2024 determined the 2025 Ordinary Council Meeting Schedule.
I propose that the date of the November and December Council meetings be changed to:
· November (from 11 November 2025 to 18 November 2025); and
· December (from 2 December 2025 to 9 December 2025)
This is to avoid having only a two-week gap between the October and November Council meetings.
The General Manager has advised that the Councillor Workshop currently scheduled for 18 November can be moved to 11 November to accommodate this change
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Abolishing Subminimum Wages for People with Disability
From: Councillors Liz Atkins and Jo Carlisle
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MOTION
1. That Council acknowledge that at present Inner West Council does not procure from, fund or participate in, or award new grants to, Disability Enterprises that participate in segregated services or employment of people with disability on sub-minimum wages or engage in restrictive practices.
2. That the Access Local Democracy Committee be asked to: a) review all relevant policies and provide advice to Council about potential amendments to ensure the Inner West is not supporting organisations or groups that undertake the practice of paying workers with disability a subminimum wage; b) consider and suggest additional measures Council could implement to ensure it is not contributing to or enabling, either directly or indirectly, the payment of wages below the minimum award rate to people with disability c) suggest how Council might advocate for wage parity for people with disability d) considerer and suggest potential mitigations of any unintended consequences of current or future actions.
3. That in the meantime the General Manager review and provide a report to the February 2026 Council meeting on work underway to: a) Review successful grant recipients in the current term of Council to identify any grants awarded to organisations that might be engaging in segregated services, payment of sub-minimum wages or restrictive practices; b) review the Sponsorship Policy and Grants Guidelines/criteria to ensure exclusion of sponsorship or funding for any individual or organisation that fails to provide appropriate remuneration to people with disability; c) maintain a thorough supplier onboarding process to ensure engagement with businesses that meet our ethical standards and compliance obligations, including requirements related to modern slavery; d) Work with Council’s primary office supplier to determine their actions toward eliminating subminimum wages throughout their supply chain; e) strengthen provisions requiring sponsors and funding recipients to comply with all employment legislation and anti-discrimination law; and f) ensure web pages and directories of support services for people with disability or older people do not contain any references to Australian Disability Enterprises. |
Background
From 1 July 2025 the national minimum wage in Australia is $948, based on a week of 38 ordinary hours, or $24.95 an hour. Currently, under the Supported Employment Services Award disabled workers are paid as little as $3.12 an hour, that is, up to $21.83 an hour less than the minimum wage. The Award is a carve out in national employment law which covers employers who operate supported employment services and their employees who fit within the classifications of the award. Supported employment services are known as Australian Disability Enterprises (ADEs) and are segregated employment.
In 2023 the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability recommended that the Federal Government immediately raise the subminimum award wage to 50% of the national minimum wage, phase out workplace segregation and achieve wage parity for people with disability by 2034 (Recommendations 7.31 and 7.32). The Federal Government noted in its response to the Royal Commission’s report that these recommendations were subject to further consideration.
The Inner West Council is working towards the reduction of workplace segregation and the achievement of wage parity for people with disability, in the following ways -
· all Inner West Council employees under the disability traineeship program are paid according to the Local Government (State) Award rates;
· there are no café leases with Australian Disability Enterprises in our managed portfolio;
· the Inner West Council procurement team has been working closely with their counterparts at the City of Sydney and Bayside Council to establish practices demonstrating a commitment to eradicating modern slavery. These initiatives include: adding a modern slavery component to the Procurement Policy, mandating that tenderers complete a specific schedule when submitting bids to Inner West Council, and implementing the iPro tool;
· Council maintains a thorough supplier onboarding process to ensure engagement with businesses that meet our ethical standards and compliance obligations, including requirements related to modern slavery;
· discussions are underway with Council’s primary office supplier to determine their actions toward eliminating subminimum wages throughout their supply chain;
· Council is presently reviewing the Sponsorship Policy and Grants Guidelines/criteria to ensure exclusion of sponsorship or funding for any individual or organisation that fails to provide appropriate remuneration to people with disability; and
· Council is exploring ways to strengthen provisions requiring sponsors and funding recipients to comply with all employment legislation and anti-discrimination law.
Australians think payment of a subminimum wage is unacceptable. Polling conducted by Essential on behalf of Down Syndrome Australia in March 2025 showed that 85% of respondents did not know people with disability were legally being paid subminimum wages. Once they did know, 82% thought it was unacceptable. The same polling showed 79% of respondents agreed the government should take action to help people with disability into meaningful jobs.
In Australia, only 17,000 people work in ADEs and 760,000 people with profound or severe disabilities work in mainstream employment.
Report of the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability, Vol. 7, Inclusive Education, Employment and Housing:
Disability Royal Commission, Government Response, Vol 7b, Inclusive Employment
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Environmental Planning and Assessment (Planning System Reforms) Bill 2025
From: Councillor Liz Atkins
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MOTION
1. That Council notes with concern that the Environmental Planning and Assessment (Planning System Reforms) Bill 2025 reduces local planning control and transparency, increases the risk of corruption in planning processes, and will decrease community input and confidence in planning decisions.
2. That Council notes with concern the fundamental changes to the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 arising from amendments to the objects of the Act and to Part 4.15, including significant weakening of requirements to consider cumulative impacts, environmental impacts, site suitability, and the public interest in decision-making.
3. That Council notes that the Bill has been described as “the biggest planning reform in 50 years,” yet has proceeded with minimal public consultation and limited engagement with local government.
4. That Council notes with concern that the proposed Development Coordination Authority centralises powers within the Department of Planning and reduces the independent and specialist input previously provided by agencies such as the Environment Department and Rural Fire Service, with no clear mechanisms to ensure transparent or arms-length decision-making.
5. That Council acknowledges the critical role that metropolitan councils play in managing housing density, infrastructure capacity, transport networks, and environmental sustainability through locally informed, place-based planning processes.
6. That Council writes to the Premier, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, and the Members for Balmain, Newtown and Summer Hill: a) Seeking retention of local Community Participation Plans, ensuring meaningful and inclusive community engagement in local planning processes. b) Highlighting the value of Voluntary Planning Agreements (VPAs) in delivering infrastructure, public benefit, and affordable housing outcomes for local communities—and the significant loss that would occur if councils were prevented from negotiating VPAs. c) Raising concern about the administrative burden and cost-shifting to councils that will result from the new time-frames and referral processes, leading to poorer planning outcomes and reduced accountability. d) Highlighting broad concerns about governance, environmental assessment, and the public interest arising from the Bill, while acknowledging that recent Legislative Assembly amendments—such as the introduction of a 28-day minimum consultation period for targeted assessments, the exclusion of designated development (e.g. coal mines, power stations, concrete works), and the retention of bush-fire-prone-land provisions—represent partial but insufficient improvements.
7. That Council requests a report from staff outlining the likely implications of the Bill for the Inner West and its potential impacts on housing density, infrastructure planning and environmental and social safeguards.
8. That Council advocates through Local Government New South Wales and the SSROC for a coordinated response to these reforms.
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Background
The Environmental Planning and Assessment Amendment (Planning System Reforms) Bill 2025 introduces substantial and system-wide changes to planning law in NSW.
While framed as a response to the housing supply challenge, the Bill affects all forms of development and fundamentally shifts power away from councils and independent agencies to new centralised bodies within the Department of Planning.
Although several improvements were made in the Legislative Assembly—such as introducing a 28-day consultation period for “targeted assessment” developments, excluding designated developments like fossil-fuel or heavy-industrial projects from the fast-track pathway, and retaining bush-fire-prone-land provisions—the Bill continues to erode local decision-making, transparency, and environmental safeguards.
The Bill also enables ministerial discretion to amend environmental planning instruments via the new Housing Delivery Authority, weakens consideration of cumulative impacts and site suitability, and diminishes opportunities for meaningful community participation.
Metropolitan councils like the Inner West are uniquely affected, as they balance growth and density pressures with the need for infrastructure, amenity, and sustainability. Councils must continue to play a central role in delivering fair, transparent, and community-driven planning outcomes.
Environmental Planning and Assessment (Planning System Reforms) Bill 2025:
https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/bill/files/18807/Second%20Print.pdf
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Re-establishment of Pratten Park Advisory Committee
From: Councillor Jo Carlisle and The Mayor, Councillor Darcy Byrne
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MOTION
1. That Council establish a Pratten Park Advisory Committee to provide input and advice on the Pratten Park Plan of Management.
2. That Council prioritise the completion of the Plan of Management which should include consideration of the restoration of the grandstand, car park upgrades, renovation of the Pratten Park Bowling Club, tennis court lighting, and upgrade and improvement to all sporting facilities.
3. That Council table a report for the November Ordinary Meeting proposing the membership of the Advisory Committee for the endorsement by Council.
4. That the Plan of Management and subsequent upgrade of the precinct is to be included on the agenda of the Major Projects Committee.
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Background
Pratten Park is a unique sporting and recreational precinct adjacent to the Ashfield town centre that has enormous historic significance as well as great potential to provide passive and active recreation spaces for the growing population in Ashfield and surrounding suburbs.
The site should be a high priority for Council in providing facilities and amenities for the increased population in the Ashfield community that will be achieved through the Our Fairer Future Plan.
This can include significant capital investment to be derived from developer contributions as well as Council’s long-term financial plan.
There are a broad cross-section of stakeholders that have an interest in the maintenance and upgrade of Pratten Park. These include, but are not limited to, the Pratten Park Bowling Club, Western Suburbs Lawn Tennis Association, Western Suburbs District Cricket Club, Canterbury and District Football Association, the Ashfield Historical Society, and other sporting organisations.
In the development of the Plan of Management, it’s important that Council draw on the knowledge and expertise of these organisations and give them a meaningful role in the project.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Wombat Crossing or Other Pedestrian Improvements for Wardell Road
From: Councillors Mat Howard and Jessica D'Arienzo
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MOTION
1. That Council notes community concerns about pedestrian and cyclist safety on Wardell Road, particularly at the crossing point near 80 Riverside Crescent, Dulwich Hill, where pedestrians and golfers frequently cross between the Cooks River path, Marrickville Golf Course, and the Dulwich Hill rail precinct
2. That Council acknowledges the increasing pedestrian and cycling activity expected in this area with the opening of the Dulwich Hill Metro station and improvements along the Cooks River path.
3. That Council requests staff review pedestrian and cyclist safety at the crossing point on Wardell Road, just north of the Cooks River bridge, and to assess the feasibility of installing a wombat crossing or other appropriate pedestrian safety measures.
4. That Council refers this matter to the Local Traffic Forum for further consideration, including a review of current traffic volumes, pedestrian counts, sightlines, accessibility, and potential safety improvements, including a wombat or other formalised crossing, with a report at the Forum on or before March 2026.
5. That Council investigates other opportunities for improved active transport connectivity, including options for a dedicated pedestrian and cycling bridge parallel to Wardell Road bridge and safe separated cycling links between the Cooks River path and Dulwich Hill Station, to be included in the report to the Local Traffic Forum.
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Background
Local residents have raised concerns about the safety of pedestrians and cyclists crossing Wardell Road, near the Cooks River bridge and opposite 80 Riverside Crescent, Dulwich Hill.
The location serves as a key connection between the Cooks River shared path, Marrickville Golf Course, and residential areas leading to the Dulwich Hill train and future metro stations.
Currently, the crossing is unmarked, and drivers are inconsistent in yielding to pedestrians, resulting in near misses and unsafe conditions.
With increased foot and cycle traffic expected following new river path lighting and the upcoming metro opening, there is a growing need to improve safety and connectivity in this corridor.
A wombat crossing or similar pedestrian treatment could help clarify right of way, reduce risk, and enhance the overall experience for those walking and cycling in the area.
A broader review may also identify opportunities for improved bridge infrastructure and separated cycle connections along Wardell Road.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Adoption of the Our Backyard River Campaign Objectives
From: Councillor Mat Howard
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MOTION
1. That Council note the Cooks River Alliance was recently awarded highly commended for its Our Backyard River campaign in the 2025 Sydney Awards.
2. That Council formally adopt the objectives of the Our Backyard River campaign, which seeks to reconnect local communities with the Cooks River Catchment — including its tributaries such as Wolli Creek, Cup and Saucer Creek, and the Alexandra Canal — by celebrating the river system as a shared natural and cultural asset.
3. That Council actively utilise the campaign’s branding, messaging and communications materials in Council’s environmental education, community engagement, and communications programs when referring to the Cooks River Catchment and its tributaries, to ensure consistent messaging and alignment with partner councils, the Cooks River Alliance, and community organisations.
4. That Council reaffirm Inner West Council’s ongoing commitment to active participation in and contribution to the Cooks River Alliance and the Cooks River Masterplan, of which the Our Backyard River campaign is a core component, to support coordinated planning, restoration and stewardship across the catchment.
5. That Council request the General Manager write to the CEO of Sydney Airport Corporation seeking stronger engagement with the Cooks River Alliance, including potential funding for projects impacting the Cooks River.
6. That Council ask that a report be brought to Council within six months outlining opportunities to integrate the Our Backyard River campaign objectives into current and upcoming projects, including: a) Waterway rehabilitation and naturalisation works; b) Interpretive and educational signage; c) Litter prevention and stormwater quality improvement programs; d) Citizen science and community stewardship initiatives; e) Public art, storytelling, and cultural interpretation projects celebrating the Cooks River; and f) Council communications.
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Background
Inner West Council has a long and proud history of working to restore, protect, and celebrate the Cooks River — one of Australia’s most urbanised but loved waterways.
The Cooks River and its tributaries wind through Marrickville, Dulwich Hill, Tempe, St Peters and Sydenham, providing green corridors, recreation spaces, and vital habitat in the heart of our city.
For decades, local residents, schools, and community groups have played an active role in caring for the river, from bushcare and litter clean-ups to citizen science and cultural events. Inner West Council has led significant initiatives to improve both the environment of the river, and local people’s connection to it.
Council’s ongoing investment in stormwater management, riverbank naturalisation, and community education reflects a deep and enduring commitment to improving water quality and re-establishing the river as a living system at the centre of community life.
Inner West Council is a founding and active member of the Cooks River Alliance, a partnership of councils and community organisations working together to restore and celebrate the Cooks River Catchment. Through this collaboration, the Our Backyard River campaign was developed to reframe how communities see and engage with the river — from a neglected stormwater channel to a cherished shared backyard.
The key objectives of the Our Backyard River campaign are to:
1. Create a shared, inspiring narrative / language for the entire Cooks River Catchment
○ To reshape how people talk about and see the catchment — not as disconnected waterways or neglected assets, but as a collective backyard.
○ To celebrate culture, place, community stories and the natural world along the river.
2. Master Plan development
○ To unify existing fragmented plans (from councils, state agencies, etc.) into a single integrated master plan.
○ To clearly articulate shared roles and responsibilities for river health and catchment management.
3. Healthy Waterway
○ To improve water quality across the catchment; to invest in catching pollution, improving ecology, supporting species (including iconic ones) that communities care about.
4. Recreation Destination
○ To
enhance public enjoyment of the river: more access, more opportunities for
recreation (paddling, walking, being on and by the water)
5. Country & Culture
○ To recognise, celebrate, and embed Aboriginal history and culture in the river catchment.
○ To reflect the diversity of communities living along the river and the cultural value of place.
6. Consistent Branding, Messaging & Engagement
○ To develop consistent branding, messaging, visual identity for the Cooks River, so that communications, community engagement, and participatory planning are aligned.
○ To engage the community, stakeholders, councils, partners in shaping the river’s future and in telling its story.
The project was funded by the NSW Labor State Government.
By adopting the Our Backyard River campaign objectives, Inner West Council can:
● Strengthen alignment with regional partners and ensure consistent messaging across catchment councils;
● Enhance eligibility for state and federal funding for litter prevention, stormwater improvement, biodiversity restoration, and flood resilience projects;
● Reduce downstream pollution and maintenance costs;
● Advance Council’s climate adaptation, tree canopy, and open space connectivity objectives; and
● Reinforce our leadership in urban ecology, waterway restoration, and collaborative environmental governance.
This initiative builds on Council’s environmental strategies, including the Inner West Environment Strategy, Urban Forest Strategy, Resilience and Adaptation Plan, and Community Strategic Plan, all of which highlight the Cooks River corridor as a key ecological, cultural, and community asset.
Through the Our Backyard River campaign, Council can continue to foster local pride, strengthen partnerships, and ensure the Cooks River remains a living, resilient waterway — truly our shared backyard.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Container Deposit Scheme (Return & Earn) in the Inner West
From: Councillor Mat Howard
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MOTION
1. That Council note the success of the NSW Container Deposit Scheme (Return & Earn), particularly noting the environmental, social and economic benefits achieved and the high participation from Inner West residents.
2. That Council congratulate the NSW Minister for Environment and Energy on the decision to expand the eligibility of containers under Return & Earn to include wine and spirit bottles; cordials and juice concentrates; and larger containers, to commence mid-2027.
3. That Council conduct an audit of all existing TOMRA Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) and other Return & Earn collection points within the Inner West LGA, to identify gaps in coverage (spatial, hours, capacity), and on the basis of that audit, prepare a priority list for new sites.
4. That Council advocate to TOMRA Cleanaway (or relevant RVM / collection‐operators) and to the NSW Minister for the Environment and EPA for the installation of additional RVMs and/or collection points in Inner West, informed by the audit, to ensure more equitable access.
5. That Council request staff investigate options for how Council may assist residents who collect eligible used beverage containers as a form of income supplement, to make collection and redemption more accessible. Possible assistance may include (but is not limited to) partnership with community groups or options for residents to purchase and use additional crates or garbage bins for eligible containers.
6. That Council request that Council develop a protocol to assist residents who collect eligible used beverage containers for income supplement purpose to more easily access outdoor events at Council venues, properties and ovals for this purpose, consistent with health, safety and security requirements, with the intention that the protocol inform how residents collecting beverage containers are engaged with at large-scale outdoor events.
7. That Council request that staff report back to Council within six months with: a) the results of the RVM / collection point audit (including map of gaps & priority sites; b) Correspondence related to the issue; c) Update on a protocol for access at Council venues as per clause 6; d) an advocacy plan to present to TOMRA / NSW Government for securing additional infrastructure; and e) communications strategy to raise awareness among Inner West residents and community organisations about the expanded eligibility and about opportunities under Return & Earn.
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Background
The NSW Container Deposit Scheme, known as Return & Earn, has been in operation since 1 December 2017. It has proven to be a highly successful program for reducing litter, increasing recycling, and delivering social and economic benefits to communities. Return & Earn offers a 10-cent refund for eligible drink containers returned to approved collection points, including reverse vending machines (RVMs), over-the-counter return points and automated depots.
Inner West Council supports the scheme and already promotes local collection points (for example the RVM at Addison Road Community Centre).
Recent data shows that the Inner West LGA has 13 Return & Earn collection points, including RVMs, with the most recent being the Norton Plaza machine in Leichhardt.
TOMRA Cleanaway reports that since the scheme began, Inner West residents have returned over 222 million eligible bottles, cans and cartons through local return points.
State-wide, there are over 660 return points in NSW.
The NSW Government has announced that from mid-2027 the scheme will expand to include wine & spirit containers (150 ml to 3 L), cordials and juice concentrates, and larger containers already in scope (e.g. flavoured milk, fruit & vegetable juices). This expansion is expected to add up to 362 million additional containers eligible per year, including about 196 million glass bottles.
These figures demonstrate both the uptake and the potential of the scheme—and the case for ensuring its infrastructure and access are equitable across all communities in the Inner West.
Collecting and redeeming beverage containers is also an important source of income for many in the Inner West community, including low income residents who rely on the income from collections.
There have been reports of local residents seeking to collect used eligible beverage containers being asked to leave council owned ovals and properties at large-scale events.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Marrickville Parklands Picnic Area
From: Councillor Mat Howard
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MOTION
1. That Council acknowledge the ongoing dedication and work of staff from Council’s Urban Ecology team, as well as that of volunteers and staff from both the Mudcrabs and Marrickville Golf, Sporting and Recreation Club, to support biodiversity at Marrickville Golf Course.
2. That Council note that the hilltop area between the 8th and 18th tee has been identified in the Marrickville Parklands Plan of Management (POM) as a the site of a future picnic area.
3. That Council acknowledge the site is currently strewn with invasive weeds including lantana and is littered with refuse from historical illegal dumping.
4. That Council request Council staff clear the hilltop of the illegal waste to better allow access to Mudcrabs volunteers and council staff to develop a vegetation management plan to tackle invasive species on the site while caring for the native fauna within, funded from the existing parks management budget.
5. That Council commit to establishing a picnic area at the site in the 2026-2027 financial year, with funding provisioned through the 2026-2027 budget process.
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Background
Marrickville Parklands is one of the Inner West’s largest areas of contiguous public open space, encompassing Marrickville Golf, Sporting and Recreation Club, parts of the Cooks River foreshore, and important bushcare and biodiversity zones. The Parklands provide critical habitat for native flora and fauna, as well as space for walking, cycling, sport, and community recreation.
The Marrickville Parklands Plan of Management (POM), adopted by Council, recognises the area as a significant ecological and recreational landscape. It outlines a long-term vision to enhance biodiversity, improve public access and amenity, and create more inclusive spaces for the community. The POM specifically identifies the elevated area between the 8th and 18th tees as a future picnic area, offering panoramic views of the Cooks River corridor and an opportunity to improve the balance between recreation and conservation within the Parklands.
Marrickville Golf, Sporting and Recreation Club has been a longstanding community partner in maintaining the parklands. The course provides accessible and affordable recreation, while also incorporating extensive biodiversity zones managed in collaboration with Council and community volunteers.
The Mudcrabs (Cooks River Eco Volunteers) are an award-winning local volunteer group who have, for over two decades, restored native habitat along the Cooks River and within Marrickville Parklands. Working closely with Council’s Urban Ecology team, the Mudcrabs have helped transform degraded riverbanks and open space into thriving urban bushland, supporting pollinators, native birds, and small mammals.
Inner West Council has made strong commitments to protecting and enhancing biodiversity, improving the quality of its open spaces, and ensuring the Cooks River corridor becomes a healthy, connected, and accessible landscape.
Clearing the hilltop site of illegal waste and supporting habitat restoration aligns with these objectives, while establishing a future picnic area will enhance opportunities for the community to connect with nature in the heart of Marrickville Parklands.
It also represents an ongoing commitment to enhancing and expanding access to public open and green space in Marrickville.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: NSW Solar for Apartment Residents (SOAR)
From: Councillor Vicki Clay and Deputy Mayor, Councillor Chloe Smith
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MOTION
1. That Council be acknowledged as a source of the feasibility data that supported the development of the NSW Solar for Apartment Residents (SOAR) program developed between the Albanese and Minns Governments.
2. That Council communicate the program to Inner West LGA residents to encourage applications for SOAR grants for the installation of solar panels on eligible apartment buildings and other multi-unit dwellings in the Inner West.
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Background
Thanks to a $25 million partnership for the NSW Solar for Apartment Residents (SOAR) program between the Albanese and Minns Governments, more apartment residents in NSW will be able to access renewable energy and potentially save on their energy bills annually while cutting emissions.
Australia is already the world leader in rooftop solar uptake, however too many apartment residents have been locked out of the solar boom because of ownership structures, rental arrangements or up-front costs.
This program helps change that. Participating households will be able to receive real hip-pocket relief at a time families need it most. SOAR provides funding through owners corporations to support the installation of solar panels on eligible apartment buildings (with a minimum of 3 and maximum of 55 apartments) and other multi-unit dwellings in NSW. NSW has already approved 49 applications with $2.17 million in grants awarded and another 551 received for assessment. Approved projects cover more than 973 apartments with over 1,900 kW of solar to be installed.
Interested strata managers and owners’ corporations are encouraged to apply until 30 March 2026. The SOAR program opened in February 2025. This program is part of the Albanese Government’s $101 million Community Solar Banks Initiative, which is helping more than 25,000 households who’ve been locked out of solar cut
In September, Chris Bowen (Minister for Climate Change and Energy) and Penny Sharpe (NSW Minister for Climate Change and Energy) highlighted the benefits of the program with a visit to a Newtown apartment complex that has taken up the challenge of installation of solar as part of the SOAR Grant program, to actively participate in renewable energy options, and provide the apartment dwellers the opportunity to gain the savings and emissions reduction benefits.
Inner West Council has a strong record of support for the uptake of renewable energy opportunities and was actively involved in the provision of data from a feasibility study to assist in the development of the grants program.
We would therefore encourage Inner West strata managers and property managers to investigate the grants program and make application for a grant to participate in the scheme to further reduce the cost of energy for their complex, noting that the grants are available until March 2026 (or until all available funds are taken up in advance of the deadline date).
https://www.energy.nsw.gov.au/households/rebates-grants-and-schemes/solar-apartment-residents for more information or contact: solar.banksnsw@dcceew.nsw.gov.au
Announcement: Cutting electricity bills by connecting to solar | 9 News Australia
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Support for Summer Crawl and King Street Crawl
From: Deputy Mayor, Councillor Chloe Smith
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MOTION
1. That Council allocates $15,000 to support the Summer Crawl free live music event to be held in January 2026, with funding to be sourced from the events budget previously allocated towards the annual Newtown Street Party.
2. That Council identifies any additional funding that could be allocated to support the Summer Crawl event through the next quarterly budget review and other sources.
3. That Council works with Summer Crawl organisers to investigate additional and in-kind support that could be provided by Council, including but not limited to facilitating the closure of Eliza Street in Newtown for a live music activation, extended trading hour at participating venues where requested, and promotional activity including via the Newtown Enmore Business Community.
4. That Council organises a meeting with the organisers to discuss opportunities to provide ongoing support for the Summer Crawl and King Street Crawl events.
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Background
Summer Crawl and King Street Crawl are free live music events that take place across more than 30 venues in Newtown, Enmore, and Erskineville, primarily centred around Enmore Road and South King Street. Summer Crawl is scheduled to take place in January 2026 with King Street Crawl to follow in July 2026.
Both events are run by The Music and Booze Co, a local business which has delivered the much-loved Beer, Footy and Food Fest in partnership with the Newtown Jets at Henson Park for over a decade.
The events ran for five years before Covid and recently returned to the Inner West after a three-year hiatus. The most recent event featured over 200 acts of which 80% were local to the Inner West, and participating venues reported a significant increase in revenue and foot traffic.
As part of the Summer Crawl event, organisers intend to host a live music activation on Eliza Street, Newtown in addition to participating hospitality venues. The 2026 event will be delivered in place of the annual Newtown Street Party, delivered by Young Henrys and Solitel in partnership with Inner West Council, which is usually held in December.
As Council has previously resolved to provide ongoing support to the Newtown Street Party event, the same support should be provided to Summer Crawl in January 2026, including to facilitate the street closure. Support should also be provided to any participating venues outside the Enmore Road SEP who may wish to apply for extended trading hours for the event, which runs from 12pm-12am.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: GreenWay Concerns for Residents of 1-3 Williams Parade, Dulwich Hill
From: Councillor Jessica D'Arienzo
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MOTION
1. That Council acknowledges that residents of 1-3 Williams Parade, Dulwich Hill have been impacted by the construction of the GreenWay corridor and are concerned with loss of privacy, potential safety and noise impacts.
2. That Council notes that: a) The GreenWay will deliver significant community benefit; b) Council staff have met on-site with concerned residents to understand the issues and work towards a resolution; c) The elevated nature of the pathway and rest areas provides direct sight lines into residents' bedrooms, bathrooms, living areas and balconies; d) The corridor is acknowledged by Council to be one of the narrowest sections of the GreenWay, creating acute privacy issues; e) The short-term mitigation measures outlined by Council staff include fence height increases, shade cloth, and plantings; and f) Additional measures need to be explored with residents to reach resolution.
3. That Council investigate the feasibility and costs of installing permanent privacy screening/sound barriers along the pathway edge adjacent to 1-3 Williams Parade (such as laser-cut decorative panels, privacy screens, or similar solid barriers) and explore design options for the rest area/viewing platform adjacent to the properties, including any impacts on budget and timelines, and report those options to the Major Capital Works Committee.
4. That Council commits to ongoing communication and engagement with the residents to reach a resolution.
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Background
Residents of 1-3 Williams Parade, Dulwich Hill have raised concerns about privacy, safety and noise impacts resulting from the GreenWay construction. The elevated nature of the pathway provides sight lines into private living spaces, including the rest areas which residents have expressed concern about.
Council staff have engaged with residents over several months and proposed mitigation measures including fence height increases, shade cloth installation, and landscaping. However, residents have indicated these measures do not adequately address their concerns:
● Current proposed solutions may not sufficiently mitigate sight lines from the elevated pathway into private spaces
● Some recommendations from a Police Security Assessment obtained by residents fall outside Council's standard scope of responsibility
● Certain security measures (boundary fencing, CCTV) have been identified as the responsibility of property owners/strata management
● Long-term landscaping solutions will require time to mature and their effectiveness remains to be assessed
This motion seeks to ensure Council explores all reasonable options to balance the significant community benefits of the GreenWay infrastructure project with the privacy and security expectations of adjoining residents. Further investigation of additional mitigation measures would demonstrate Council's commitment to working constructively with affected residents to achieve an appropriate outcome.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Waste management support for tenants
From: Councillor Izabella Antoniou
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MOTION
1. That Council notes that in some circumstances tenants, particularly those in transitional housing may be unable to organise clean up services due to a myriad of personal and systemic reasons.
2. That Council notes that strata, leasing agents, and boarding house managers are well-placed to organise a hard rubbish clean up when tenants are unable to.
3. That Council prepares and electronically distributes relevant resources around booking pick-ups to leasing agents, property, and boarding house managers it is in contact with to increase education on the free pick-up service and provide any physical common area signage upon request.
4. That Council engages with relevant services such as Newtown Neighbourhood Centre on potential ways to support tenants in transitional accommodation and boarding houses who may need additional support in accessing appropriate waste services.
5. That Council investigates the development of education collateral including signage for multi-dwelling developments to display signage in common waste management areas regarding bulky item collections.
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Background
Residents have noted ongoing and consistent dumping on the intersection of Gower St and Liverpool road in Summer Hill. Council has consistently performed timely clean ups of the site when notified - however the area remains a potential dumping hot spot.
Neighbours have flagged their concerns that individuals residing in the broader
area may be taking advantage of the site as it is in close proximity to
low-cost transitional housing - therefore may experience higher rates of
movement.
It is noted that tenants, particularly those in transitional housing, for a
myriad of reasons may be unable to organise a council pick up, including issues
of tight moving timelines and capacity.
To support the broader issue of illegal dumping, council requires a
collaborative approach that acknowledges the ability of building managers,
strata and leasing agents’ to support the booking of council pickups and
hard rubbish collection.
Staff
have identified that a key challenge for tenants and building managers is they
are not aware of the free pick-up service Council offers for bulky waste items
and hard rubbish.
This may be due to multiple factors, and differences between LGAs that
residents may move between.
By working with sites, leasing agents and community services, Council can build
additional approaches and education streams to combat dumping ‘hot
spots’.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Parking solutions Morris Street Summer Hill
From: Councillor Izabella Antoniou
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MOTION
1. That Council notes the petition from the residents of Morris Street Summer Hill requesting additional parking measures to be investigated on their street.
2. That Council investigate the implementation of parking zones on both sides of Morris Street Summer Hill that; a) prioritises resident parking during the weekdays. b) allows for open parking during the weekends.
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Background
Morris Street Summer Hill is a unique street in the area due to its proximity to key amenities, health services and the Summer Hill train station.
However, unlike other streets surrounding the village, Morris Street does not possess
adequate off-street parking for residents, meaning additional pressure is put
on the street for eligible spots.
Currently one side of the street is designated resident parking, but those living in the street have flagged this is insufficient.
Residents have put together a petition asking council to explore alternative parking solutions, including restricted parking on both sides of the street in a way that balances resident parking, with those who are coming in to make use of the health services and amenities during the week.
It is important that council is able to appropriately balance resident needs with the interest of keeping out village centres accessible. This investigation will allow for the chance of alternative solutions to be examined.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
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1.⇩ |
Petition |
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Council Reports
From: The Mayor, Councillor Darcy Byrne
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MOTION
1. That Council require that all reports to Council are to be authored by a member of the executive, being a Director of the General Manager.
2. That Council no longer require that reports to Council have an authoriser given that executive staff will be the authors of the reports.
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Background
The NSW Government's mandatory changes to the Model Code will commence in 2026 and will pose particular challenges for Councillors due to the elimination of briefing sessions and the requirement for questions about reports to be tabled officially after the business papers have been published. This will add to the importance of high-quality report writing by officers to ensure that Councillors are properly informed about policy matters in advance of making decisions.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Glebe Island Bridge Advocacy
From: The Mayor, Councillor Darcy Byrne
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MOTION
1. That Council propose to the NSW Government that the reopening of the Glebe Island Bridge as a pedestrian and cycling thoroughfare be included as a priority in the Master Planning of the Bays Precinct.
2. That Council seek negotiations with the Government about how this could be funded through a combination of developer contributions and capital investment from the NSW Government, the Inner West Council and the City of Sydney.
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Background
Both the former Leichhardt Council, Inner West Council, and the City of Sydney have long advocated for the reopening of the Glebe Island Bridge as a pedestrian and cycling link connecting the Balmain peninsula to the CBD.
It is longstanding NSW Government policy to investigate how this project could be undertaken.
The Bays Precinct Masterplan is due to be undertaken by the NSW Government and will include significant new residential development in the precinct in conjunction with the opening of the new Metro station there.
With an increased population base, it will be both desirable and necessary to create new transport links into the Bays Precinct. Council should prioritise advocating for the reopening of the Glebe Island Bridge or the creation of a replacement connection as part of the Bays Precinct Masterplan.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Transport for NSW Consultation on McGill Street Access
From: Councillor Jessica D'Arienzo and Deputy Mayor, Councillor Chloe Smith
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MOTION
That Council writes to Transport for NSW and requests Transport for NSW works collaboratively with Council to explore all feasible options for safe and practical ingress and egress between Old Canterbury Road and the Luna apartment complex and updates residents of the outcome.
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Background
Old Canterbury Road is a state road managed by Transport for NSW.
Transport for NSW has advised that the Edward Street intersection upgrade requires a 70-metre merge taper chevron that extends across McGill Street, leading to a proposed “No Right Turn” from Old Canterbury Road.
Residents have expressed concern about the loss of access, potential safety issues, and a lack of consultation, with more than 100 community members signing a petition.
Council will work collaboratively with Transport for NSW to identify and deliver an outcome that achieves a balance between safety, accessibility, and the needs of the community.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Question on Notice: Callan Park
From: Councillor Ismet Tastan
Questions relating to Callan Park Buildings - Repatriation Ward B - currently flagged as a potential location for a clubhouse for Balmain District Football Club (BDFC).
Question
Does Inner West Council have a licence to occupy Repatriation Ward B?
Answer
No
Question
How much funding has Council identified is required to fund renovations and upgrades of Repatriation Ward B and if so, where did/will this come from? Are there specific conditions imposed on providing this funding?
Answer
At the June 2025 Council meeting, it was resolved to reallocate $1.2M in funding from the Birchgrove Oval amenities upgrade to a partnership with the NSW Government to removal Building 497 in Callan Park.
Question
Has it been decided who will be responsible for the renovation - Greater Sydney Parklands Trust/ BDFC/ Inner West Council?
Answer
A funding agreement is required with the NSW Government/Greater Sydney Parklands which will detail the NSW Government/Greater Sydney Parklands as the delivery agent.
Question
Does Council have a licence to occupy other buildings within Callan Park and if yes - which ones?
Answer
Council has one lease from NSW Health that includes the right to occupy the following:
Building B504 – Refugee Welcome Center
Building B696 – WC Balmain Road. Toilet services the northern portion of the parklands.
Building B703 – Former Electrical Store now purposed for use as the Leichhardt Men's shed.
Building B498 - Former Air Raid Shelter -Now used for community club storage on Waterfront Drive Sporting Ground
Under the terms and conditions of the lease, Council has various types of agreements with other users that allow those groups to occupy the buildings.
Question
Has Council had to fund repairs on other buildings it occupies under licence in Callan Park and if so, what was the purpose and cost of these?
Answer
Council has funded:
Building B504
(Refugee Welcome Center) Activation and restoration of the building-approximately $500,000 investment, and ongoing operational costs for community service use.
Building B696
Activation and restoration of the B696 toilet – approximately $150,000 investment, and ongoing operational costs.
Building B703
Activation and community repurposing of the former Electrical Store B703-Callan Park Men’s
Shed. An investment of approximately $41,000
Building B498
Activation and community repurposing of the former Air Raid Shelter on the Waterfront Drive Sporting ground utilised for Community Sporting storage by Balmain District Building Football Club. Cost of refurbishment approximately $145,000.
Callan Park Sporting Fields
Could you please provide the following (separately per field ) :
Question
What sporting groups use the fields at Callan Park?
Answer
The following sporting groups utilise the fields in Callan Park
· Balmain District Football Club
· Leichhardt Saints
· Boomers Baseball Club
· Cygnets AFL
· Balmain AFC
· Inner West Harbour Cricket Club
In terms of seasonal sporting allocations:
Balmain Road Sporting Ground (One Field)
- Winter Season (April – September): Leichhardt Saints FC, APIA FC and School use
- Summer Season (November – March): Leichhardt Saints FC, APIA FC, Balmain AFC, Leichhardt Cygnets and School use
Glover Street Sporting Ground (Two Soccer Fields & One AFL Field in Winter)
- Winter Season (April – September): Balmain & District FC, Balmain AFC, Leichhardt Cygnets (AFL)
- Summer Season (September – April): Wests Boomers Baseball
Waterfront Drive Sporting Ground (Two Soccer Fields in Winter, One Cricket Field in Summer)
- Winter Season (April – September): Balmain & District FC
- Summer Season (September – April): Balmain South Sydney CC, Inner West Harbour CC, Iron Cove CC, Balmain & District FC
Question
What months do the different sporting groups play?
Answer
Answered above
Question
What days and hours do sporting groups play and train?
Answer
Balmain Road Sporting Ground (One Field)
Winter 2025:
- Monday: Grounds rested
- Tuesday: Sydney Secondary College Leichhardt, 12:45 PM – 2:15 PM
- Tuesday: APIA FC, 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
- Wednesday: Leichhardt Saints FC, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Thursday: Leichhardt Saints FC, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Friday: Orange Grove Public School, 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM
- Friday: APIA FC, 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
- Saturday: Leichhardt Saints FC, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: Leichhardt Saints FC, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Summer 2024/25:
- Monday: Grounds rested
- Tuesday: Leichhardt Cygnets, 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM; Balmain AFC, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Wednesday: Leichhardt Saints FC, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Thursday: Leichhardt Cygnets, 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM; Leichhardt Saints FC, 6:00 PM –
Glover Street Sporting Ground (Two Soccer Fields & One AFL Field in Winter)
Winter 2025:
- Monday: Grounds rested
- Tuesday: Leichhardt Cygnets, 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM; Balmain AFC, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
- Wednesday: Balmain & District FC, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Thursday: Leichhardt Cygnets, 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM; Balmain AFC, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
- Friday: Leichhardt Wanderers Junior Rugby League, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: Balmain & District FC, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: Balmain & District FC, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (alternate Sundays 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM for Cygnets)
Summer 2024/25:
- Monday: Grounds rested
- Tuesday – Friday: Wests Boomers Baseball, 4:00 PM – 9:30 PM (varying hours)
- Saturday: Wests Boomers Baseball, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: Wests Boomers Baseball, 12:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Waterfront Drive Sporting Ground (Two Soccer Fields in Winter, One Cricket Field in Summer)
Winter 2025:
- Monday: Grounds rested
- Tuesday – Friday: Balmain & District FC, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday – Sunday: Balmain & District FC, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Summer 2024/25:
- Tuesday: Balmain & District FC, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM (varies by date)
- Wednesday: Balmain South Sydney Cricket Club, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Thursday: Balmain South Sydney Cricket Club, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM; ICCC, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday: Balmain South Sydney Cricket Club, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Sunday: Balmain South Sydney Cricket Club, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Question
What fees are paid to Council for these grounds by each club?
Answer
Balmain Road Sporting Ground (One Field)
Total Fees and Charges for Winter 2025:
- Leichhardt Saints FC: $11,361.50
- APIA FC: $3,297.00
Total Fees and Charges for Summer 2024/25:
- Leichhardt Saints FC: $3,822.10
- APIA FC: $602.40
- Balmain AFC: $891.40
- Leichhardt Cygnets: $301.20
- School Use (No Charge During School Hours)
Glover Street Sporting Ground (Two Soccer Fields & One AFL Field in Winter)
Total Fees and Charges for Winter 2025:
- Balmain & District FC: $21,365.60
- Balmain AFC: $2,637.60
- Leichhardt Cygnets: $3,211.20
- Leichhardt Wanderers: $1,884.00
Total Fees and Charges for Summer 2024/25:
- Wests Boomers Baseball: $12,741.90
- Leichhardt Cygnets: $251.00 (pre-season only)
- Balmain & District FC: $1,995.00 (school holidays clinic)
- School Use (No Charge During School Hours):
Waterfront Drive Sporting Ground (Two Soccer Fields in Winter, One Cricket Field in Summer)
Total Fees and Charges for Winter 2025:
- Balmain & District FC: $29,540.20
Total Fees and Charges for Summer 2024/25:
- Balmain South Sydney CC: $4,211.20
- Inner West Harbour CC: $1,907.60
- Iron Cove CC: $1,033.20
- Balmain & District FC: $8,185.60
- School Use (No Charge During School Hours):
Question
What expenses does Council incur per financial year in maintaining these fields?
Answer
- Balmain Road (0.8 ha): $11,344.33
- Glover Street (1.8 ha): $25,524.73
- Waterfront Drive (2 ha): $28,360.82
- Total Maintenance Expenses (Materials): $65,229.80
Topdressing Expenses (Last Year):
- Balmain Road: $6,171.00
- Glover Street: $9,147.60
- Waterfront Drive: $10,500.00
- Total Top dressing Expenses Contractors): $25,818.60
Operational Costs (day labour costs for mowing, filling holes, line marking, installing/dismantling goalposts and cleaning).
- Balmain Road: $10,000
- Glover Street: $20,000
- Waterfront Drive: $20,000
- Total Approx. Operational Staff Expenses: $50,000.00
Combined Annual Costs (Material, Contractors and Staffing costs): $141,048.40
Council also has a rolling sporting ground major maintenance program every 4 years where the grounds receive a major upgrade including sand grooving, topdressing, minor regrading, irrigation and turfing work. The program costs as follows:
- Balmain Road Sporting Ground: $32,000
- Glover Street Sporting Ground: $66,000
- Waterfront Drive Sporting ground: $70,000
Total rolling program expenditure for the above is $168,000 + CPI every 4 years
Question
What turf does Council use on these fields?
Answer
The primary turf used at these fields is Legend Couch grass, which is overseeded with MP Stadium Rye grass during the winter months.
General questions
Question
Is each field maintained to a standard that is “fit for purpose” for each sport? How does Council define “fit for purpose” ?
Answer
Councils current sporting ground maintenance program follows the NSW Governments - Best practice guidelines for sporting fields.
Each field is maintained to meet the specific needs of the sport it serves. Council considers various factors, including mowing heights and surface hardness, which are adjusted based on the type of sport being played. For impact sports, a softer surface is maintained to ensure player safety.
Council engages an independent sports turf specialist to assess all sporting fields on a monthly basis. This specialist provides monthly reports with a detailed condition of rating, recommendations, and a scope of work to ensure that the playing surfaces remain safe and suitable for high-level performance.
Question
Are there any plans to increase fees in the next two years?
Answer
There are no plans to increase fees beyond the anticipated CPI adjustments.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Public Exhibition - Voluntary Planning Agreement - 67 Victoria Road, Rozelle
Prepared By: Scott Mullen - Strategic Investments & Property Manager
Authorised By: Ryann Midei - Director Property and Major Projects
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RECOMMENDATION
That Council adopt the recommendation contained in the Confidential Attachment 1.
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
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2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport |
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DISCUSSION
Council will move into closed session to deal with the Public Exhibition - Voluntary Planning Agreement - 67 Victoria Road, Rozelle, for information which is classified as confidential under (Section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business.
Pursuant to section 10A(2), 10(2) and 10A(3) of the Local Government Act 1993, the media and public will be excluded from the meeting on the basis that the business to be considered is classified as confidential under Section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993.
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Confidential Report - Public Exhibition - Voluntary Planning Agreement - 67 Victoria Road, Rozelle - Confidential This attachment is confidential in accordance to information (Section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business. |
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67 Victoria Road, Rozelle - VPA - Contribution Deed - JC Decaux - Confidential This attachment is confidential in accordance to information (Section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business. |
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Public Exhibition - Voluntary Planning Agreement - 186 Victoria Road, Rozelle
Prepared By: Scott Mullen - Strategic Investments & Property Manager
Authorised By: Ryann Midei - Director Property and Major Projects
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RECOMMENDATION
That Council adopt the recommendation contained in the Confidential Attachment 1.
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
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2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport |
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DISCUSSION
Council will move into closed session to deal with the Public Exhibition - Voluntary Planning Agreement - 186 Victoria Road, Rozelle, for information which is classified as confidential under (Section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business.
Pursuant to section 10A(2), 10(2) and 10A(3) of the Local Government Act 1993, the media and public will be excluded from the meeting on the basis that the business to be considered is classified as confidential under Section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993.
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Confidential Report - Public Exhibition - Voluntary Planning Agreement - 186 Victoria Road, Rozelle - Confidential This attachment is confidential in accordance to information (Section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business. |
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186 Victoria Road, Rozelle - VPA - Contributioins Deed QMS - Confidential This attachment is confidential in accordance to information (Section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business. |
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Quarterly Strategic Investment Property Report
Prepared By: Scott Mullen - Strategic Investments & Property Manager
Authorised By: Ryann Midei - Director Property and Major Projects
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RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive and note the report. |
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
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5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report provides Council with a quarterly update on the financial and operational performance of its commercial property investments in Liverpool and Warrawong – July 2025 to September 2025.
For the quarter ending 30 September 2025, the combined net income from these properties totalled $1,268,734, with strong occupancy rates.
BACKGROUND
Council previously held investment properties at Tempe Lands, which were acquired by Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW) for the Sydney Gateway Project in March 2020 through a compulsory process by agreement.
In 2021, Council engaged Ernst & Young (EY) to conduct a comprehensive review of the existing property portfolio and to assist in the development of a Real Estate Investment Strategy. The strategy adopted provides a structured framework and clear criteria for acquiring replacement investment properties, ensuring that future purchases are aligned with the previous rental revenue generated by the acquired lands.
The acquisition of investment properties located in Liverpool and Warrawong was approved at Special Council Meetings held in November 2022 and April 2023, respectively.
DISCUSSION
203 NORTHUMBERLAND STREET LIVERPOOL
The property offers a total Net Lettable Area (NLA) of 7,278.10 square metres. The property is fully leased.
Financial Performance (1 July 2025 to 30 September 2025)
A summary of the financial performance of the property is provided below:
Revenue
The total revenue amounts to $1,051,178, compared to a budgeted figure of $1,013,501. The result is a favourable variance of $37,676 (3.72%).
Expenses
The total building expenses, encompassing operating expenditure, direct recoveries, and owner expenditure, amounted to $173,621 against a budget of $172,056. This represents an unfavourable variance of $1,565 (0.91%).
Financial Balance
The balance exceeded budget expectations, resulting in a favourable variance of $36,111, or 4.29%.
Capital Works
The planned capital budget for FY 2025/26 is $433,500.
Recent property activities included comprehensive audits of mechanical systems, building inspections, and external façade assessments, with repair works as required being planned. Planned works also cover the rear car park and entrance areas.
The overall ten-year capital budget for the property, as detailed in the EY Due Diligence Analysis at time of purchase, has been incorporated into the Council’s Long Term Financial Plan.
67 KING STREET WARRAWONG
The property offers a total Net Lettable Area (NLA) of 5,224.00 square metres. The property is fully leased.
Monthly Holdovers is 43 sqm (1%). This relates to Helius Pathology who have exercised their lease option to extend their lease term.
Financial Performance (1 July 2025 to 30 September 2025)
A summary of the financial performance of the property is provided below:

Revenue
The total revenue amounts to $514,872.11, compared to a budgeted figure of $536,180.29. The result is an unfavourable minor variance of $21,308.18 (3.97%).
Expenses
The total building expenses, including operating expenditure, direct recoveries, and owner expenditure, amounted to $123,694.46 compared with a budget of $129,135.42 resulting in an favourable variance of $5,440.96 (4.21%).
Financial Balance
The financial balance results in a minor unfavourable variance of $15,867.22 (-3.9%).
Capital Works
The planned capital budget for FY 2025/26 is $491,875.
Recent works for the property included planning for carpark resurfacing, repair of a block wall, some exterior painting, and drainage improvements. Roof safety improvements continued.
The overall ten-year capital budget for the property, as detailed in the EY Due Diligence Analysis at time of purchase, has been incorporated into Council’s Long Term Financial Plan.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report, though financial performance of the properties has been included within the discussion of this report.
For the quarter ending 30 September 2025, the combined net income from these properties totaled $1,268,734.
Council will move into closed session to deal with the Quarterly Strategic Investment Property Report for additional information which is classified as confidential under Section 10A(2)(d)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993. The matter is deemed confidential, as the matter is commercial information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business.
Pursuant to section 10A(2), 10(2) and 10A(3) of the Local Government Act 1993, the media and public will be excluded from the meeting on the basis that the business to be considered is classified as confidential under section 10A(2)(d)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993.
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Confidential Report - Quarterly Strategic Investment Property Report - Confidential This attachment is confidential in accordance to information (Section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business. |
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Council Meeting 28 October 2025 |
Subject: Panel of Code of Conduct Reviewers
Prepared By: Julian Sakarai - Senior Manager Governance and Risk
Authorised By: Sharon Bowman - Director Corporate
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RECOMMENDATION
That Council adopt the recommendation contained in the Confidential Attachment 1.
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
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5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
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DISCUSSION
Council will move into closed session to deal with the Panel of Code of Conduct Reviewers, for information which is classified as confidential under (Section 10A(2)(d)(i) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it; and commercial information of a confidential nature (Section 10A(2)(d)(ii) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the council; and commercial information of a confidential nature (Section 10A(2)(d)(iii) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed reveal a trade secret.
Pursuant to section 10A(2), 10(2) and 10A(3) of the Local Government Act 1993, the media and public will be excluded from the meeting on the basis that the business to be considered is classified as confidential under Section 10A(2)(d)(i), Section 10A(2)(d)(ii) and Section 10A(2)(d)(iii) of the Local Government Act 1993.
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Confidential Report - Panel of Code of Conduct Reviewers - Confidential This attachment is confidential in accordance to commercial information of a confidential nature (Section 10A(2)(d)(i) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it; AND commercial information of a confidential nature (Section 10A(2)(d)(ii) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the council; AND commercial information of a confidential nature (Section 10A(2)(d)(iii) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed reveal a trade secret. |