|
|
Council Meeting 18 November 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.
|
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
|
AGENDA |
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
Minutes
of 28 October 2025 Council 7
8 Public Forum – Hearing from All Registered Speakers
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
C1125(1) Item 1 Automated Waste Systems 39
C1125(1) Item 2 Annual Report 2024/25 including audited Financial Statements 80
C1125(1) Item 3 Quarterly Progress Report on the Operational Plan 2025/26 and Quarterly Budget Review Statement 83
C1125(1) Item 4 Achieving Council's Carbon Neutral Target 204
C1125(1) Item 5 Haberfield Business Roundtable 237
C1125(1) Item 6 Post Exhibition - 11-11A Edinburgh Road, Marrickville Planning Proposal Amendment to the Inner West Local Environmental Plan 2022 241
C1125(1) Item 7 Public Exhibition - Jarvie Park - Draft Plan of Management and Masterplan 249
C1125(1) Item 8 Public Exhibition - Weed Management Policy 252
C1125(1) Item 9 Local Transport Forum Meeting - 20 October 2025 262
C1125(1) Item 10 Town Hall Open Day Festival Update 273
C1125(1) Item 11 Love your Club Network and Grant Program 276
C1125(1) Item 12 Events at Dawn Fraser Baths 280
C1125(1) Item 13 Pratten Park Masterplan Advisory Committee 292
C1125(1) Item 14 Camperdown Memorial Rest Park – Extension of Hire Agreement 295
12 Reports for Noting
ITEM Page
C1125(1) Item 15 Investment Report at 31 October 2025 320
C1125(1) Item 16 Leichhardt Oval Refurbishment - Monthly Project Update 374
C1125(1) Item 17 Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre Upgrade - Monthly Project Update 377
C1125(1) Item 18 Leichhardt Wharf and Pontoon Update 381
C1125(1) Item 19 Reconciliation Action Plan Evaluation and Redevelopment 385
C1125(1) Item 20 Youth Voice Summit 422
C1125(1) Item 21 Mandatory Reporting to Council of Reports Received from Fire & Rescue NSW - 123A Smith Street Summer Hill 426
C1125(1) Item 22 2024-2025 Pecuniary Interest Returns and Updated Return 431
13 Notices of Motion
ITEM Page
C1125(1) Item 23 Notice of Motion: Waterloo Street Rozelle 466
C1125(1) Item 24 Notice of Motion: Sustainable procurement for major projects 468
C1125(1) Item 25 Notice of Motion: Sydney Steel Road pedestrian and cycling improvements 470
C1125(1) Item 26 Notice of Motion: Sydenham Station Mural 474
C1125(1) Item 27 Notice of Motion: Road Safety on Richardson’s Crescent, Marrickville 476
C1125(1) Item 28 Notice of Motion: Camperdown Park – Shaded Seating 477
C1125(1) Item 29 Notice of Motion: Callan Park/Balmain Road Cycleway 480
C1125(1) Item 30 Notice of Motion: Inner West Halloween 481
C1125(1) Item 31 Notice of Motion: 2026 Integrated Transport Strategy Consultation 482
C1125(1) Item 32 Notice of Motion: GreenWay Bush Care and Signage 483
C1125(1) Item 33 Notice of Motion: Trialling Parklets on Australia Street 484
C1125(1) Item 34 Notice of Motion: Bringing Mardi Gras to the Inner West 485
C1125(1) Item 35 Notice of Motion: Transformation of the former Wesley Mission Hospital to the Inner West Project 487
C1125(1) Item 36 Notice of Motion: Inner West Council Development Control Plan (DCP) 489
14 Questions From Councillors
ITEM Page
C1125(1) Item 37 Question on Notice: Early Childhood Education and Care 490
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
C1125(1) Item 38 67-75 Lords Road, Leichhardt - Dedication of Open Space 491
|
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Minutes of Ordinary Council Meeting held on 28 October 2025 at Ashfield Service Centre
Meeting commenced at 6.32pm
|
Present: |
|
|
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 (attended via audio-visual link) Councillor General Manager Director Planning |
|
Ruth Callaghan |
Director Community |
|
Sharon Bowman Peter Shields Ryann Midei Matthew Pearce |
Director Corporate Director Engineering Director Property and Major Projects General Counsel |
|
George Georgakis Helen Bradley Manod Wickramasinghe Ken Welsh Manuel Moncada Katherine Paixao Carmelina Giannini |
Administration Manager Resource Recovery Planning Manager Traffic & Transport Planning Manager Coordinator Strategic Transport Planning NSW Audit Office Business Paper Coordinator Executive Assistant to the Director Community |
APOLOGIES AND REQUEST FOR REMOTE PARTICIPATION:
Motion: (D’Arienzo/Carlisle)
That Council accept Councillor Scott’s request to attend tonight’s Council meeting via audio-visual link due to personal reasons.
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 Barlow declared a non-significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 6 - Local Transport Forum Meeting - 15 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 Transport Forum. She will remain in the meeting during discussion and voting on the matter as the vote is exercised through a representative.
** Councillor Barlow made another declaration later in the meeting (shown on the next page) in relation to Item 6 - Local Transport Forum Meeting - 15 September 2025.
Councillor Howard declared a significant, pecuniary interest in Item 24 - Mandatory Reporting to Council of Reports Received from Fire & Rescue NSW as one of the listed properties is in close proximity to his principal place of residence. He will leave the meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.
The Mayor, Councillor Byrne declared a significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 42 - Notice of Motion: Transport for NSW Consultation on McGill Access as he resides in the vicinity of precinct being considered. He will leave the meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.
Motion (Atkins/Antoniou)
That Council note the disclosures of interest.
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
CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
|
That the Minutes of the Council held on Tuesday, 23 September 2025 and Extraordinary Council held on Tuesday, 30 September 2025 be confirmed as a correct record.
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 registered speakers were asked to address the meeting. The list of speakers is available on the last page of these minutes.
The Mayor, Councillor Byrne left the Meeting at 7:07 pm and vacated the chair. The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Smith assumed the chair.
The Mayor, Councillor Byrne returned to the Meeting at 7:31 pm. The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Smith vacated the chair and the Mayor, Councillor Byrne assumed the chair.
Councillor Carlisle left the Meeting at 7:48 pm.
Councillor Carlisle returned to the Meeting at 7:50 pm.
Councillor D'Arienzo left the Meeting at 7:50 pm.
DISCLOSURES OF INTEREST:
Councillor Barlow declared a significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 6 – Local Transport Forum Meeting – 15 September 2025 as she has recently moved into a rental property close to site being discussed in Item 9 of the Local Transport Forum meeting. She does not think there is a significant appreciable financial gain or loss associated with this item, however under the circumstances, she will exercise an abundance of caution and to avoid any perception of impropriety, she will leave the meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.
Motion (Howard/Atkins)
That Council note the disclosure of interest.
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan
Against Motion: Nil
Absent: Cr D'Arienzo
Councillor D'Arienzo returned to the Meeting at 7:52 pm.
Procedural Motion (Howard/Atkins)
That Council Suspend Standing Orders to bring forward the following items to be dealt with at this time:
1. Item 8 - Public Exhibition - Jack Shanahan Reserve - Draft Plan of Management
2. Item 12 - FOGO contamination and microplastics including fruit stickers
3. Item 14 - Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee - 13 October 2025 Minutes
4. Item 15 - Investment Report at 30 September 2025
5. Item 16 - Leichhardt Oval Refurbishment - Monthly Project Update
6. Item 17 - Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre Upgrade - Monthly Project Update
7. Item 19 - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Hub - Funding sources and procurement strategy
8. Item 22 - Local Democracy Groups Six Monthly Progress Update
9. Item 26 - Designated Persons Disclosures of Pecuniary Interest Returns 2024-2025
10. Item 27 - Notice of Motion: Rescheduling of November and December 2025 Council meetings
11. Item 28 - Notice of Motion: Abolishing Subminimum Wages for People with Disability
12. Item 31 - Notice of Motion: Wombat Crossing or Other Pedestrian Improvements for Wardell Road
13. Item 32 - Notice of Motion: Adoption of the Our Backyard River Campaign Objectives
14. Item 33 - Notice of Motion: Container Deposit Scheme (Return & Earn) in the Inner West
15. Item 35 - Notice of Motion: NSW Solar for Apartment Residents (SOAR)
16. Item 36 - Notice of Motion: Support for Summer Crawl and King Street Crawl
17. Item 37 - Notice of Motion: GreenWay Concerns for Residents of 1-3 Williams Parade, Dulwich Hill
18. Item 46 - Quarterly Strategic Investment Property 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
Procedural Motion (Howard/Atkins)
That the following items be moved in globo and the recommendations contained within the report be adopted:
1. Item 8 - Public Exhibition - Jack Shanahan Reserve - Draft Plan of Management
2. Item 12 - FOGO contamination and microplastics including fruit stickers
3. Item 14 - Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee - 13 October 2025 Minutes
4. Item 15 - Investment Report at 30 September 2025
5. Item 16 - Leichhardt Oval Refurbishment - Monthly Project Update
6. Item 17 - Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre Upgrade - Monthly Project Update
7. Item 19 - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Hub - Funding sources and procurement strategy
8. Item 22 - Local Democracy Groups Six Monthly Progress Update
9. Item 26 - Designated Persons Disclosures of Pecuniary Interest Returns 2024-2025
10. Item 27 - Notice of Motion: Rescheduling of November and December 2025 Council meetings
11. Item 28 - Notice of Motion: Abolishing Subminimum Wages for People with Disability
12. Item 31 - Notice of Motion: Wombat Crossing or Other Pedestrian Improvements for Wardell Road
13. Item 32 - Notice of Motion: Adoption of the Our Backyard River Campaign Objectives
14. Item 33 - Notice of Motion: Container Deposit Scheme (Return & Earn) in the Inner West
15. Item 35 - Notice of Motion: NSW Solar for Apartment Residents (SOAR)
16. Item 36 - Notice of Motion: Support for Summer Crawl and King Street Crawl
17. Item 37 - Notice of Motion: GreenWay Concerns for Residents of 1-3 Williams Parade, Dulwich Hill
18. Item 46 - Quarterly Strategic Investment Property 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
|
C1025(1) Item 8
Public Exhibition - Jack Shanahan Reserve - Draft Plan of |
|
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.
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 |
|
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 |
|
C1025(1) Item 28 Notice
of Motion: Abolishing Subminimum Wages for People |
|
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; and 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.
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 |
|
1. That Council delegate authority to the General Manager to enter into an arrangement with Cumberland City Council for a period of one year, and execute any associated documentation, to share its panel of conduct reviewers, comprised of the following entities: a) Nemesis Consultancy Group t/a National Workplace Investigations b) O’Connor Marsden & Associates Pty Ltd c) Procure Group Pty Ltd d) Pack Investigations Pty Ltd as The Trustee for Weir Trading Trust t/a Weir Consulting (National).
2. That Council receive a further report once the SSROC procurement is finalised, for Council to consider appointing pre-qualified suppliers to a new panel of conduct reviewers.
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/Smith)
That Council allow Clr Howard to speak for 2 additional minutes on Item 3.
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
Councillor Raciti left the Meeting at 8:25 pm.
Procedural Motion (Carlisle/Smith)
That Council allow Clr Howard to speak for 1 additional minute on Item 4.
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Scott, Smith and Tastan
Against Motion: Nil
Absent: Cr Raciti
Councillor Raciti returned to the Meeting at 8:27 pm.
|
1. That Council publicly exhibit the draft Sydenham Road Strategy (Attachments 1 and 2 of the report) 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.
3. That Council investigate additional funding sources for long term works, including developer contributions and State and Federal grants, and include this information when the Draft Strategy returns to Council.
4. That as part of the consultation, businesses along Sydenham Road are directly engaged and notified by letter.
5. That Council seek an urgent meeting with Transport for NSW and the Member for Summer Hill to provide an update on the Strategy and to progress those elements that require State Government agency concurrence and funding, particularly an additional crossing at Buckley Street, traffic lights at Fitzroy Street and a potential cycleway.
6. That Council staff investigate ways to proactively encourage existing and future businesses to incorporate outdoor dining and/or parklets on Sydenham Road and to include this information when the Draft Strategy returns to Council.
7. That Council earmark a mural in the next round of the Perfect Match program for a property in the study area for the Sydenham Road Strategy.
8. That Council officers investigate the feasibility of installing fairy lights in the mature trees in the precinct area included in the Strategy and include this information when the Draft Strategy returns to Council.
9. That in addition to the community engagement strategies stipulated in the report, Council advertise the exhibition period via social media.
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 (Fergusson/Howard)
That Council allow the Deputy Mayor, Clr Smith to speak for 1 additional minute on Item 6.
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
Councillor Barlow left the Meeting at 8:34 pm.
Councillor Barlow returned to the Meeting at 8:38 pm.
The Mayor, Councillor Byrne returned to the Meeting at 8:53 pm. The Deputy Mayor vacated the chair and the Mayor, Councillor Byrne assumed the chair.
|
That Council defer the item to the December 2025 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 |
|
C1025(1) Item 13 Privately-led
Planning Proposal - Marrickville Metro Shopping |
|
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; and 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.
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 |
|
1. That Council receive and note the report.
2. That Council thanks the staff who have led this project and thank the LGBTIQA+ Working Group members and LGBTIQA+ organisations that have participated and collaborated in the project to date.
3. That Council request staff hold a further Roundtable with the LGBTIQA+ Working group, local LGBTQIA+ organisations and interested councillors prior to presenting the list of preferred locations at the December Council meeting as a final form of consultation.
4. That Council call for the completion date to be brought forward so as to launch the Inner West Pride Walk as part of Pride Month 2026 (June).
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 |
|
1. That Council receive and note the report.
2. That Council staff bring a revised report to the November 2025 Council Meeting with a revised proposed schedule for Open Day Festivals separate to existing festivals.
3. That Council receive a report back to the December 2025 Council Meeting on a draft example communications and promotional strategy for the Open Day Festivals, including branding, social and digital media, banners, posters, and other physical advertising, the Tourism Action Plan, and external creative and cultural venues, platforms, and networks - and include indicative costs.
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 |
|
C1025(1) Item 21 Improvement of facilities at Dawn Fraser Baths |
|
1. That Council receive and note the report.
2. That Council note that the February 2025 Council resolution to identify how more events could be held at the Baths was not reported back in April 2025 as required and has not been carried out.
3. That Council provide the aforementioned report to the November 2025 Ordinary 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 |
|
1. That Council receive and note the report.
2. That further development, implementation and management of the Tourism Action Plan be delegated to the Senior Manager Communications and Engagement.
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 |
Councillor Howard left the Meeting at 9:07 pm as he declared a significant, pecuniary interest in Item 24 as one of the listed properties is in close proximity to his principal place of residence.
|
C1025(1) Item 24 Mandatory
Reporting to Council of Reports Received from Fire & |
|
That Council receive and note the report.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan Against Motion: Nil Absent: Cr Howard |
Councillor Howard returned to the Meeting at 9:11 pm.
Procedural Motion (Howard/Smith)
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 9:14 pm
The meeting recommenced at 9:19 pm
|
C1025(1) Item 25 Booth
Street connection to White Bay Cruise Ship Terminal -
|
|
1. That Council receive and note the report.
2. That Council note and thank Council for taking the initiative to explore options to continue the Booth Street Active Transport Corridor to Darling Street, while acknowledging that the original March 2025 motion did not call for this extension.
3. That Council commit to providing a continuation of the Booth Street Active Transport Corridor from Donnelly Street to Darling Street by implementing Option 2 – Quietway treatment. This includes a reduced speed limit of 30 km/h, entry and exit surface texture elements, and traffic calming measures. Council recognises that establishing this Quietway benefits both cyclists and pedestrians, particularly for connections between the Hospital, Gladstone Park, and the Darling Street shopping precinct.
4. That Council support continued planning and delivery of the Robert Street cycleway in this term of Council.
5. That Council ensure that the Robert Street design accommodates both pedestrians and cyclists, providing a combined pedestrian path and cycleway.
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 (Antoniou/Howard)
That Council allow Clr Atkins to speak for 2 additional minutes on Item 29.
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 (Barlow/Blake)
That Council allow Clr Antoniou to speak for 2 additional minutes on Item 29.
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 (Carlisle/Smith)
That Council allow Clr D’Arienzo to speak for 1 additional minute on Item 29.
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
|
C1025(1) Item 29 Notice
of Motion: Environmental Planning and Assessment |
|
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; and 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.
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
Motion: (D’Arienzo/Macri)
1. That Council acknowledge the reforms to improve and modernise the planning system in NSW through the introduction of the NSW Planning System Reforms Bill, has been met with support from a broad cross section of the NSW Parliament.
2. That Council note that the Bill guides the efficient delivery of housing, infrastructure and energy in NSW and the objects of the act will now include affordable housing, climate resilience and proportionality in planning decisions.
3. That Council write to the Secretary of the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure seeking a briefing on the Bill for Councillors.
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 |
|
C1025(1) Item 30 Notice of
Motion: Re-establishment of Pratten Park
Advisory
|
|
1. That Council establish a Pratten Park Advisory Committee to provide input and advice on the Pratten Park Plan of Management.
3. That Council table a report for the November 2025 Ordinary Council 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.
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 |
|
C1025(1) Item 34 Notice of Motion: Marrickville Parklands Picnic Area |
|
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.
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
Amendment (Barlow/Atkins)
That point 5 be amended to:
5. That Council consult on establishing a picnic area at the site during the broader community consultation about spending the federal grant money for the Marrickville Golf Course due to commence later this year.
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 |
|
C1025(1) Item 38 Notice of Motion: Waste management support for tenants |
|
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.
7. That Council provide a report to the first meeting of the Waste Management Working Group in 2026 on actions taken in response to the previous resolution (referred to in point 6) and to the further actions detailed in points 1-5 of this motion tabled by Clr Antoniou.
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 |
|
C1025(1) Item 39 Notice of Motion: Parking solutions Morris Street Summer Hill |
|
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 refer the petition for formal consideration by the Local Transport Forum, in line with the existing process, to investigate the implementation of parking zones on both sides of Morris Street Summer Hill that; a) prioritises resident parking during the weekdays; and b) allows for open parking during the weekends.
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 |
|
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.
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 |
|
C1025(1) Item 41 Notice of Motion: Glebe Island Bridge Advocacy |
|
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.
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
Amendment (Blake/Antoniou)
That Council notes the advocacy of the Member for Balmain, the Hon Kobi Shetty MP in supporting a community campaign to restore and reopen Glebe Island Bridge, noting the petition has received over 1000 signatures in support.
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 |
The Mayor, Councillor Byrne left the Meeting at 9:58 pm and vacated the chair as he declared a significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 42 as he resides in the vicinity of precinct being considered. The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Smith assumed the chair.
|
C1025(1) Item 42 Notice
of Motion: Transport for NSW Consultation on McGill |
|
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.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan Against Motion: Nil Absent: Cr Byrne |
The Mayor, Councillor Byrne returned to the Meeting at 9:59 pm. The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Smith vacated the chair and the Mayor, Councillor Byrne assumed the chair.
Procedural Motion: (Smith/Howard)
That Council enter into Confidential session.
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
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:
C1025(1) Item 44 Public Exhibition - Voluntary Planning Agreement - 67 Victoria Road, Rozelle (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.
C1025(1) Item 45 Public Exhibition - Voluntary Planning Agreement - 186 Victoria Road, Rozelle (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.
Councillor D'Arienzo left the Meeting at 9:58 pm.
resolutions passed during closed session
|
C1025(1) Item 44 Public
Exhibition - Voluntary Planning Agreement - 67 Victoria |
|
2. That Council authorises the General Manager or delegate to approve any amendments to the Voluntary Planning Agreement prior to public exhibition.
3. That following the conclusion of the exhibition period, the Voluntary Planning Agreement be tabled at a future Council meeting for consideration.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan Against Motion: Nil Absent: Cr D'Arienzo |
|
C1025(1) Item 45 Public
Exhibition - Voluntary Planning Agreement - 186 Victoria |
|
1. That Council publicly exhibit the Voluntary Planning Agreement (Attachment 1 of the report) for a minimum period of 28 days and seek community feedback.
2. That Council authorises the General Manager or delegate to approve any amendments to the Voluntary Planning Agreement prior to public exhibition.
3. That following the conclusion of the exhibition period, the Voluntary Planning Agreement be tabled at a future Council meeting for consideration.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan Against Motion: Nil Absent: Cr D'Arienzo |
Councillor D'Arienzo returned to the Meeting at 10:01 pm.
Motion: (Clay/Blake)
That Council move back into the Open Session of 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
Meeting closed at 10:02 pm.
Public Speakers:
|
Item #
|
Speaker |
Suburb |
|
Item 3: |
Sally Armati David De Coster Michelle Martin |
Rozelle Rozelle Rozelle |
|
Item 6: |
Jacqueline Wesson Elizabeth McGlynn Kate Alexandra Bleasel |
Marrickville Newtown Newtown |
|
Item 7: |
Angela Michaelis |
Balmain |
|
Item 9: |
Paul Avery Louise Appel Helen Gilbert Paul Power |
Balmain Lilyfield Balmain Rozelle |
|
Item 13: |
Nik Wheeler |
Sydney |
|
Item 25: |
Rebecca Fernandez |
Leichhardt |
|
Item 28: |
Hannah Solomons Korey Gunnis |
Dulwich Hill Lapstone |
|
Item 29: |
Louise Appel Helen Hughes |
Lilyfield Summer Hill |
|
Item 31: |
Mark Thompson |
Earlwood |
|
Item 32: |
Jason L'Ecuyer |
Marrickville |
|
Item 37: |
Adam Lennard Bronwyn Holland |
Dulwich Hill Dulwich Hill |
|
Item 41: |
Rebecca Fernandez |
Leichhardt |
|
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Automated Waste Systems
Council at its meeting on 23 September 2025 resolved that the matter be deferred.
Prepared By: Helen Bradley - Manager Resource Recovery Planning
Authorised By: Simone Plummer - Director Planning
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council advocate to the state government that well-designed and managed technologies, including Automated Waste Management Systems, be mandated as part of the redevelopment scheme for the Bays Precinct, given the scale of development likely to occur there and the site’s proximity to sensitive environmental areas.
|
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
Automated Waste Management Systems can be an effective way of collecting waste and recycling from across a precinct to a central point for collection by a specialist vehicle. They can also reduce visual clutter and the need to manage multiple bins in a large development.
However, Automated Waste Management Systems are costly to install and maintain and are inhibited by the need to accommodate other underground utilities, as well as requiring larger collection vehicles than standard Council garbage services.
In the Inner West, there are limited redevelopment areas of appropriate scale to support the installation of such a complex and costly system, potentially apart from the major redevelopment areas within the state government land around the Bays Precinct at Rozelle.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 3 December 2024, Council resolved the following:
That Council's waste management unit investigates the adoption of an automated waste management system for high density residential development, consistent with the guidelines adopted by neighbouring government areas such as Randwick Council...
This report responds to the above resolution.
DISCUSSION
Some local government authorities – mostly overseas – have adopted Automated Waste Management Systems to centralise and manage waste collection in higher density development areas and new land release (“greenfields”) precincts.
In the closest example to the Inner West, Randwick Council engaged consultants SLR to undertake a feasibility study in for Kingsford and Kensington in 2020. This now informs a waste guideline applicable to certain development within the Kensington and Kingsford town centres.
Diagram 1: Envac community waste network (interactive image on website)
Automated waste includes:
· in-building waste disposal points
· outdoor Waste inlets and bins (garbage, recycling, or FOGO in above ground pods)
· storage chutes (vertical holding pipes for bags before emptying through the network)
· underground pipes (transporting waste at 70km per hour)
· supporting infrastructure such as air inlet and outlet valves, diverters, cyclone, fans
· waste collection station or terminal close to the road
· containers that are collected from the terminal and replaced with empty ones
· hook-and-lift collection vehicles (larger vehicles with higher clearances and wider turns)
The infrastructure is only effective when designed as part of a new development as it requires inlets, chutes, a pipe network, and storage tanks to be integrated into buildings.
Risks
If this were to be implemented at IWC there are considerable up-front costs to both developers, strata bodies, and the collector:
· the developer would be responsible for supply and installation
· strata would be responsible for ongoing management, power, and pipe repair
· Council would need to buy new specialist collection vehicles for servicing.
A contingency plan would need to be in place for breakdown (the hook and lift trucks are different to standard collection vehicles) as all waste streams must still be serviced.
IWC has three waste streams (garbage, recycling, and FOGO) requiring additional inlets and storage points (and separate trucks/ collections) in addition to weekly booked clean up collections which would still necessitate buildings to be designed for truck access.
Benefits
The public benefits of Automated Waste Management Systems are improved visual amenity, where bins presented on the street could be reduced, and increased efficiency of moving (less) bins in and around new developments. Currently these issues are generally managed by planning controls which require onsite collection.
Potential design benefits to developers include:
· lower basement heights
· reduced floor space dedicated to waste management and servicing
· less noise, odour and vermin
· better marketability and environmental performance of building
All of these could theoretically improve building design and yield, leading to potential environmental improvements on a site or increased space within a building to provide, as an example, Affordable Housing, if the size of the development were large enough.
Constraints
Automated Waste Management Systems take up large areas of land to install, as well as service, with road access and turning circles for large collection vehicles. They are expensive to install and maintain, and require specialist collection vehicles which are large and difficult to navigate through narrow streets which are prevalent in the Inner West.
The most significant constraint for Automated Waste Management Systems in the Inner West is that they cannot be retrofitted or used in areas with existing underground infrastructure (services and pipes). This includes water sewer and gas but also NBN and infrastructure such as undergrounded power lines. To be cost effective, only large new redevelopment precincts which are unencumbered by significant underground utilities would make Automated Waste Management Systems viable within the Inner West.
Scale required, and Opportunities within the Inner West
Based on research by Penrith City Council, the optimal scale is over 1,000 units and a mix of residential and commercial land uses, with larger than this making it more financially viable for Automated Waste Management Systems. Individual buildings, even of significant scale, need to be part of an integrated network or precinct for efficiency, as waste can only be transported around 250m through this system. Refer to Attachment 2.
A good example is Maroochydore City Centre. This is a 53-hectare site (about the size of Lewisham) which is currently being redeveloped and will include Australia’s first Automated Waste Collection System. This project is a whole urban renewal area where new residential, commercial and street bins are being integrated together into an automated waste network.
Most of the Inner West’s significant redevelopment areas such as the Victoria Road precinct have already been partially developed, are in fragmented ownership, and may not be developed to a scale which makes Automated Waste Management Systems feasible. In addition, many Inner West redevelopment sites have challenges such as flood zones and existing underground services like water, sewage, gas, electricity, and telecommunications to navigate, as well as narrow lanes which the hook and lift trucks may not be able to access.
An initial review of the Inner West identified that the Bays Precinct could be a suitably size development opportunity for this technology and servicing where residential, commercial, and street litter bins are integrated into an automated waste network.
Impact on Council’s Waste Controls
If adopted, council’s approach to waste management would require significant adjustment and this would need to be reflected in the relevant DCP controls. Currently Council’s adopted Waste and Recycling Guidelines (although not a statutory document) do not support Automated Waste Management Systems due to concerns around reliability and concern about blockages, and what role Council may be expected to play in the event of disruption to the waste service.
The impact on monitoring and the quality (contamination rates) of FOGO waste is unclear if managed through an Automated Waste System.
Recommendation
Having reviewed the risks, benefits and constraints of Automated Waste Systems, it is apparent that there are limited redevelopment sites of appropriate scale to support the installation of such a complex and costly technology in the Inner West.
Due to the scale and opportunity, development costs and shared servicing, as well as the proximity of Sydney Harbour and the need to manage waste carefully, it is recommended that Council advocate for Automated Waste Systems to be used in the redevelopment of the Bays Precinct.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no immediate financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
|
1.⇩ |
Randwick City Council - Localised Automated Waste Collection Systems Using Mobile Vacuum Vehicles - November 2022 |
|
2.⇩ |
Penrith City Council - Automated Waste Collection Systems Waste Management Guidelines |
|
3.⇩ |
Inner West Council - Designing and Building Guidelines - 15 May 2025 |
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Annual Report 2024/25 including audited Financial Statements
Prepared By: Ruth Callaghan - Director Community and Sharon Bowman - Director Corporate
|
RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council endorse the Annual Report 2024/25 including financial statements.
2. That Council publish the Annual Report 2024/25 on Council’s website and notify the Office of Local Government.
|
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’s Annual Report 2024/25, covering the financial year 1 July 2024 – 30 June 2025, outlines our key achievements and measures performance against the service and financial commitments outlined in the Delivery Program and Operational Plan.
The Annual Report includes Council’s audited financial statements and other statutory information. The audited financial statements were publicly exhibited from 31 October 2025 to 7 November 2025. One submission was received, no amendments to the financial statements are required.
This report highlights some of Council’s key achievements, aligned to the five strategic directions of the Community Strategic Plan Our Inner West 2036.
BACKGROUND
Under s428 of the Local Government Act 1993, as part of Integrated Planning and Reporting, all NSW Councils must prepare and endorse an Annual Report within five months of the end of the calendar year. The report must outline Council’s achievements in implementing its Delivery Program through the year’s Operational Plan, and report on the effectiveness of the principal activities undertaken to achieve the objectives in that year. The report must contain Council’s audited financial statements prepared in accordance with the Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting, under s413-417 of the of the Local Government Act 1993.
Council won a gold award in the Australasian Reporting Awards for its previous two annual reports.
DISCUSSION
The Inner West Annual Report 2024/25 details Council’s achievements in implementing its Operational Plan 2024/25 in line with the commitments of the Delivery Program 2022-26.
The report (Attachment 1) provides extensive detail on Council’s performance, capital works and finances. As at 30 June 2025, 94% of Operational Plan 2024/25 actions were on track or completed, while 85% of key performance indicators (KPIs) were on target or within 10% tolerance of the target.
Key achievements for 2024/25
Council’s achievements, aligned to the five strategic directions of the Community Strategic Plan Our Inner West 2036, include:
Ø Strategic Direction 1: An ecologically sustainable Inner West
· Celebrated one year of the Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) collection service, recovering 16,059 tonnes of organic waste and diverting 8,800 tonnes of garbage from landfill. Reduced total waste per resident sent to landfill by almost 50%
· Expanded plastic recycling program in the Inner West
· Adopted Biodiversity Strategy 2036 and Urban Forest Policy
· Activated 136 kerbside public charging ports for electric vehicles
· Planted over 1,000 trees
· Held 88 unique activities at the Inner West Sustainability Hub attracting over 1,400 participants
· Hosted Circular Economy Roundtable
Ø Strategic Direction 2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport
· Developed A Fairer Future for the Inner West plan - Council’s alternative plan to the NSW State Government housing reforms
· Advanced the $57m Cooks to Cove GreenWay (due for completion in 2025)
· Opened Rozelle Parklands for community use
· Installed 6 Little Village wayfinding signs across Petersham and Marrickville for Little Portugal, Little Vietnam, and Little Greece
· Completed Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan (PAMP) projects for 2024/25 (footpaths, pedestrian crossings and kerb ramps)
· Delivered St Peters cycleway
· Undertook 5,560 patrols of residential parking scheme areas
· Adopted the Compliance and Enforcement policy
· Created the role of City Architect
· Reduced median development application processing time by 24%
· Established the Major Residential Development Panel
· Started roll out of InnerWest@40 speed reduction program in Newtown, Enmore, Sydenham, Tempe, St Peters and Marrickville
Ø Strategic Direction 3: Creative communities and a strong economy
· Approved 6 new Special Entertainment Precincts
· Promoted local brewers and distillers
· Added 22 Inner West pubs to heritage protection list
· Implemented Arts and Music Recovery Plan
· Supported over 20,000 community venue bookings (regular and casual) with an average 95% hirer satisfaction score
· Delivered 50 community events
· Held the Creative toolbox symposium
Ø Strategic Direction 4: Healthy, resilient and caring communities
· Became the first NSW Council to adopt an Anti-Racism Strategy
· Opened the $8.2 million upgrade to Camdenville Park
· Opened Baludarri Inclusive Playground at King George Park
· Made 575 pedestrian accessibility improvements across the Inner West, supporting social and cultural participation for residents
· Opened Inner West Pride Centre in Newtown
· Welcomed over 2 million visitors to Council’s aquatic centres
· Welcomed over 1.2 million visitors to Council’s libraries, while holding more than 2,000 programs and events
· Achieved ‘Exceeding’ rating in the National Quality Standard at 2 more Early Learning Centres (Tillman Park and Leichhardt Park); utilisation of Early Learning Centres remained high at 93% while the service achieved a family and community satisfaction score of 96%
Ø Strategic Direction 5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership
· Renewed Council’s key strategic documents: Community Strategic Plan, Delivery Program, Asset Management Strategy, Workforce Management Strategy, and Long Term Financial Plan
· Hosted an innovative deliberative forum with 99 representative community members in attendance
· Received award for Council’s Disability Traineeship and EmbraceAbility mentoring program
· Received award for Social Impact at Inner West Aquatics Facilities
· Received second consecutive Gold award at the Australasian Reporting Awards for the Annual Report 2023/24
· Improved customer service satisfaction, call and response waiting times; average customer satisfaction score from the post call survey was high at 4.38 out of 5
· Delivered 9 Local Matters Forums with 88% satisfaction rating
Audited Financial Statements
The annual financial statements for the financial year 2024/25 were endorsed by the Council at a meeting held on 28 October 2025. Subsequently, the Audit Office NSW provided the independent auditor's reports and a Report on the Conduct of the Audit.
In accordance with Section 420 (2) of the Local Government Act 1993, the audited financial statements were placed on public exhibition for seven days from 31 October 2025 to 7 November 2025.
During the exhibition period, Council received one submission, and as per the provisions of Section 420(3) of the Local Government Act1993, the submission was referred to the Audit Office. It contained queries about the yields on deposits and bonds, investment restrictions on grant funding, diversification of investments, and a suggestion to invest in property to provide affordable rentals to the community. No subsequent amendments to the financial statements are required.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
The Annual Report contains the audited financial statements for 2024/25.
Attachment 1 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.⇨ |
Annual Report 24/25 and Financial Statements - Published Separately on Council’s website |
|
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Quarterly Progress Report on the Operational Plan 2025/26 and Quarterly Budget Review Statement
Prepared By: Ruth Callaghan - Director Community and Sharon Bowman - Director Corporate
|
RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council endorse the Quarterly Progress Report for Quarter 1 2025/26 on the Operational Plan 2025/26.
2. That Council adopt the Quarterly Budget Review Statement including the recommended changes detailed therein for Quarter 1 2025/26.
|
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 updates Council on quarterly progress against the Operational Plan 2025/26, and presents the Quarterly Budget Review Statement (QBRS).
The Operational Plan 2025/26 includes 172 actions and 54 performance measures or key performance indicators (KPIs). The Quarterly Progress Report tracks progress against the actions using a traffic light system (whether actions are on track, completed, behind schedule, on hold or rescheduled). It also reports whether performance measures are on target, within the tolerance (+/-10% of the target) or below target. Actions and KPIs are monitored by the relevant manager and Director.
As at 30 September 2025, 97% of the Operational Plan actions were completed or on track, while 80% of KPIs were on target or within tolerance. Five actions were off track, while 11 KPIs were below target.
The QBRS provides a comprehensive overview of Council’s financial position as at 30 September 2025. A number of budget changes are recommended within the QBRS for Council adoption.
The recommended changes will result in the following projected year end results:
· After numerous changes to the Income and Expenses Budget, Council’s net operating result before capital grants and contributions is projected to increase from $71k to $104k.
· Total capital expenditure is projected to increase by $8.8m to $128m.
BACKGROUND
Council’s Operational Plan 2025/26 details the actions that will be undertaken over the financial year to achieve the commitments made in the Delivery Program 2025-29, in accordance with the Local Government Act 1993 (s404 and 405). Council receives quarterly progress reports to monitor performance and progress in achieving Council’s commitments to the community as outlined in the Operational Plan.
In line with Office of Local Government (OLG) requirements, a Quarterly Budget Review Statement (QBRS) must be prepared by the Responsible Accounting Officer and submitted for Council’s consideration at the end of each quarter.
Revised guidelines were released by the OLG in August 2025 that mandate the use of a standardised format for the QBRS commencing from this quarter. The OLG have issued a template, with all NSW Councils required to submit the QBRS and associated reports to the OLG within 2 months of the end of each quarter. The tables presented in sections 2 – 6 of the attached QBRS are based on the OLG template.
DISCUSSION
Operational Plan 2025/26 progress update
The attached quarterly progress report outlines progress against the 172 actions in the 2025/26 Operational Plan, and tracks KPIs against annual targets.
Council is performing well against the Operational Plan 2025/26. At the end of the quarter (30 September 2025) 97% of actions were on track and 80% of KPIs were on track or within the prescribed 10% tolerance.
|
Actions
As of 30 September 2025: · 97% (167) of actions are ‘Completed’ or ‘On Track’ · 3% (5) of actions are ‘Behind Schedule’, ‘On Hold’ or ‘Rescheduled’
|
All action status
|
|
|
|
Actions on hold include the restoration of wetlands adjacent to Blackmore Park which has commenced but will require further funding, the business improvement staff training program, and a project to map organisation-critical processes which will be re-scoped once the approach and strategic alignment are confirmed.
|
Measures
As of 30 September 2025: · 80% (43) of measures are ‘On Target’ or ‘Within Tolerance’ · 20% (11) of measures are ‘Below Target’
|
All KPI status
|
|
KPI legend:
|
|
The 20% of KPIs below target included:
· Three measures of the capital works budget – percentage of expenditure of the town centre upgrade budget, local area traffic management budget and overall capital works budget – below target because the majority of expenditure on these items is expected in the latter part of the financial year
· Verge maintenance and pothole repair, below target due to wet weather in the quarter
· Tree permit applications and input to development applications involving tree works, below target due to the high number of applications and constraints on staff availability
Highlights for the quarter:
· Endorsed the Our Fairer Future Plan – setting a pathway for 27,000 new homes over the next 15 years. The Plan commits $500 million to open spaces, transport links and community facilities, and introduces major reforms to increase social and affordable housing. This milestone follows Council’s most extensive engagement program to date, with more than 3,000 submissions received, 313 planner bookings, 342 hotline calls, and dozens of drop-in sessions and workshops. The Public Forum at the Council meeting on 22 September 2025 was the largest ever, with 80 speakers presenting their views.
· Delivered this year’s Dulwich Hill Festival on 21 September 2025, which drew an estimated 9,000 attendees for a day packed with music, food and community spirit
· Consulted the community on 12 projects during the quarter including five playground upgrades and recreation opportunities for young girls, women, and gender-diverse people
· Held 23 sustainability workshops and events at the Inner West Sustainability Hub. The most popular were Repair Day, Sydney Bird Fest's 'Let's Talk about Birds', Healthy Edible Garden Series and Toy Swap.
· Supplied 600 plants from Council’s nurseries for projects and held a National Tree Day event at Birchgrove at which 500 new trees were planted.
Quarterly Budget Review Statement
The attached QBRS provides a comprehensive overview of Council’s financial position as at 30 September 2025. The QBRS recommends Council adopt a number of changes to the budget, based on revised projections of the financial position at year end.
Summary of Budget Movements
Operational Budget
On 17 June 2025 Council adopted the 2025/26 Budget which included a net operating surplus excluding capital revenue of $70k. After the completion of the First Quarter (September) 2025 Quarterly Budget Review, the net operating position excluding capital revenue is projected to be to $104k surplus.
The graph in Figure 1 summarises the key recommended operating budget movements, with a brief explanation and the impact on Council’s budget provided below.

Figure 1 Q1 Changes in the Budgeted Full Year Operating Result Before Capital Grants and Contributions
Key movements relate to recommended changes including:
· Increase in User Charges and Fees - $0.4m predominantly from higher utilisation of aquatic centres
· Increase in Interest Income - $1.6m due to higher opening reserve balances than originally projected
· Increase in Other Income:
- Parking & Ranger Services - $0.5m due to alignment of infringement income to year to date to actuals
- Environmental Health & Building Regulation - $0.4m due to income from one off legal settlement
· Increase in Operating Grants:
- Traffic and Transport - $1.9m due to Inner West @40 grant
- People and Culture - $1.3m due to grant from Office of Local Government for Apprentice, Trainee and Cadet program
· Increase in Employee Costs of $1.5m following organisational changes and additional positions offset by operational grants received
· Increase in Material & Services due to:
- Matching operational grants received for Office of Local Government apprentice, trainee and cadet program and Inner West @40 for $3.2m
- Council resolutions of $1.4m for Callan Park building contribution, Town Hall Open Day Program, and Koori knock out
- Carryover of operational project budget to be completed in current Financial Year, with some funded by grants received in 2024/25 financial year
Capital Budget
The adopted budget also included a Capital Works Program of $119.2m. After the completion of the September 2025 Quarterly Budget Review, an additional $8.8m is recommended to be added to the capital budget, bringing the projected year end budget to $128m.
This increase has been partially funded by an additional $5m in projected capital grants.
The graph in Figure 2 summarises the key recommended capital budget movements. Details of recommended movements in individual capital projects are included in Item 1 under section 9 in the attached QBRS report.

Figure 2 Changes in the Full Year Capital Budget
The projected increased Capital Expenditure is primarily due to the carryover of unspent budgets from the 2024/25 Financial Year. A significant portion of the carryovers are projects completed early in the first quarter.
Cash Flow forecasts of major projects are continually monitored. September 2025 year to date capital expenditure totals approximately $10.9m, which is below the level expected at this time.
The Capital Budget will continue to be reviewed on an ongoing basis with the capital works managers to ensure expenditure remains in line with the budget.
Responsible Accounting Officer Budget Review Statement
Section 203(2) of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 requires a report by Council’s responsible accounting officer regarding the Council’s financial position at the end of each quarter. The following statement is made in accordance with this clause.
It is in my opinion that the Budget Review Statement for Inner West Council for the period ending 30 September 2025 indicates that Council’s projected financial position at 30 June will be satisfactory, having regard to the projected estimates of income and expenditure and the original budgeted income and expenditure.
Chris Sleiman, Chief Financial Officer (Responsible Accounting Officer) - Inner West Council
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
Financial implications for the quarter are listed above and detailed in the attached Quarterly Budget Review Statement.
|
1.⇩ |
Quarter 1 Progress Report on the Operational Plan 2025/26 |
|
2.⇩ |
September 2025 Quarterly Budget Review Statement (QBRS) |
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Achieving Council's Carbon Neutral Target
Prepared By: Simone Plummer - Director Planning
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council endorse the final steps to becoming Carbon Neutral by 2025, including purchasing value-based carbon offsets and seeking accreditation under the Climate Active scheme.
|
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
In December 2018, Council adopted an ambitious target to become Carbon Neutral by 2025.
This is well in front of the NSW Net Zero target date of 2050, and will place Inner West at the forefront of local government organisations taking positive steps to reduce emissions and take the lead on climate change.
Council’s stance was reinforced with the adoption of the Climate and Renewables Strategy in 2019. Many significant mitigation projects have already been undertaken through this strategy.
Council’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality means reducing greenhouse gas emissions as much as possible and offsetting any remaining emissions through the purchase of carbon offsets, resulting in net-zero emissions.
The last remaining significant action in order to achieve Carbon Neutral status is to set Council’s approach to purchasing these carbon offsets. This report recommends taking a high value-for-money approach to purchasing offsets at this point in time, having regard to the current economic conditions being experienced by our community.
In future years, as Council does more to reduce its emissions (for example, by increasing EVs), and the corresponding size of the “bundle of offsets” reduces, a more balanced portfolio of offsets is likely to become more appropriate and affordable.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 24 October 2017, Council resolved the following in part:
2. b) Make the Inner West Council 100% carbon neutral by the earliest possible date, while balancing immediate actions with the need for more impactful, longer term solutions
Subsequently, at the Council meeting held on 11 December 2018, Council resolved the following in part:
THAT Council:
5. Council notes the options for target dates and endorses a 100% carbon neutral and 100% renewable electricity target date of December 2025
These targets were reinforced when Council adopted the Climate and Renewables Strategy at its December 2019 meeting. This Strategy is the roadmap for Council’s practical actions to reduce its carbon footprint and take action on climate change, including:
· Introducing a 100% renewable electricity supply in 2022
· Transitioning Council’s streetlights to LED
· Significant investment in rooftop solar on Council buildings
· Strategic transition to electrified facilities/ phase-out of gas
· The transition of Council’s fleet into electric vehicles
These initiatives and others have made significant headway in reducing Council’s corporate carbon footprint. To become fully carbon neutral, Council will also need to purchase carbon offsets. Each individual offset is equivalent to one tonne of carbon and its price is an important consideration. Offset prices can vary according to many factors including:
· Project type and quality
· Geographic location
· Certification and other applicable standards
· Any additional co-benefits (such as social justice benefits)
DISCUSSION
The national framework for carbon neutrality is the Climate Active Carbon Neutral Standard for Organisations, administered by the Federal Government (see Attachment 1). This includes the steps for calculating, mitigating, and offsetting emissions and certifying Carbon Neutral status. Becoming certified as Carbon Neutral is broadly achieved in four steps:
1. Quantifying Council’s carbon emissions inventory
2. Developing and implementing an emissions reduction plan
3. Purchasing offsets to compensate for any residual emissions
4. Having these actions independently validated
Council’s current carbon inventory is 10,480 tonnes CO2-e (Step 1 – see Attachment 2). The volume of offsets required will decrease over time as emissions are reduced through the ongoing mitigation efforts set out in Council’s Climate and Renewables Strategy (Step 2). A review of the Strategy has commenced in order to ensure that its aspirations remain current and relevant.
Carbon offsets (Step 3) have ongoing cost implications for Council and are summarised below:
· offsets are generated by projects that reduce or avoid carbon emissions – for example, reforestation or renewable energy projects
· one carbon offset unit represents one tonne of carbon emissions avoided, removed or captured from the atmosphere
· the price of carbon offset units can vary significantly depending on location, activity type and accreditation standard. Projects with rigorous oversight and additional co-benefits (for example increased biodiversity or Indigenous employment) are more expensive than offsets with less oversight, or fewer co-benefits
· Compliant carbon offsets under the Climate Active Standard include:
o Australian Carbon Credit Units (ACCUs)
o International projects which have been verified under the Gold Standard (VER) or Verified Carbon Standard (VCU)
· Organisations can invest in a portfolio of completely Australian, mixed Australian-international or completely international offsets, and remain compliant. Australian offsets tend to be significantly more expensive than those sourced overseas. This is due to demand in the Australian market, and regulation in other jurisdictions
· The price of ACCUs has risen significantly in recent years. When the Climate and Renewables Strategy was adopted in 2019, ACCUs averaged $14 per unit. Current prices can be over $70.
Council has sought advice on offset investments from consultancy 100% Renewables. The likely costs to Council from different investment options are as follows:
· If Council were to purchase 100% Australian offsets (compliant ACCUs), the estimated minimum cost would be $456,000 and up to $845,500 each year (these are similar to the Australian credits purchased by the City of Sydney)a balanced investment which supports Australian projects, including a mix of 20% Australian and 80% international offsets, has an estimated minimum cost of $162,610 and up to $415,041 each year
· 100% international offsets, which still meet the Climate Active Carbon Neutral Standard, would have an estimated cost of $60,947 and up to $307,412 each year
In light of the current economic conditions being experienced by the Inner West community and the need to manage Council’s finances in a responsible manner, a best-value approach to offset investments is recommended in the initial (2025) year. This entails 100% international offsets. Using this approach, a minimal estimated cost for carbon offsets in 2025 is approximately $61,000, based on currently available VERs and VCUs such as the sample below:
|
Project name |
Project Location |
Type of Offset |
Number of Offsets |
Percentage of total |
Cost per tonne CO₂-e |
Total Cost |
|
Sapphire 49.5 MW Wind Farm Project |
Pakistan |
VER |
1048
|
10% |
$15.40 |
$16,140.74 |
|
Ghani Solar Renewable Power |
India |
VCU |
4716
|
45% |
$4.50 |
$21,224.03
|
|
Bhadla Solar PV Farm |
India |
VCU |
4716
|
45% |
$5.00
|
$23,582.25
|
|
Total |
|
|
10480 |
100.00% |
|
$60,947.02 |
Seeking best value offsets is not uncommon in local government. Currently, 12 Australian Councils are certified Carbon Neutral under Climate Active, including:
· City of Sydney
· City of Melbourne
· Blacktown City Council
· City of Parramatta
· Logan City (Queensland)
· Merri-bek City (Victoria)
Among these Councils, there is a range of approaches taken to offset investment, such as:
· Woollahra Council - 100% is invested in international offset projects
· Blacktown Council - 100% is invested in international offset projects
· Parramatta City Council – 80% is invested in international offset projects
· City of Sydney – 76% is invested in international offset projects
Attachment 3 includes further examples of the offset mix used by other Climate Active councils.
Looking to the future, Council’s offset requirements could decline to as low as 3,000 tonnes by FY2030/31, depending on the balance between:
· the success of planned emissions reduction initiatives, e.g. fleet electrification, gas phase-out, sustainable procurement
· the expansion of Council’s asset portfolio, with the impact varying based on number and size of facilities, energy consumption and construction materials
Council has already reduced its emissions by more than 15,000 tonnes CO₂-e since 2016/17. As emissions (and the corresponding offset requirement) continue to fall, it may become feasible to include a greater proportion of ACCUs.
A longer-term approach for offsets will be part of the revised Climate and Renewables Strategy, which will be the subject of a further report to Council.
In order to achieve the commitment to becoming Carbon Neutral by 2025, it is recommended that Council endorse the final steps of this process which include:
· Purchasing carbon offsets, and selecting the best value-for-money option this year
· Seeking certification under the Australian Climate Active scheme
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
In addition to the cost of offsets, Council would be required to pay for validation (Step 4 under the Climate Active Carbon Neutral Standard for Organisations) and certification. The total cost in 2025 is estimated to be $89,000 as set out in the table below:
|
Offsets |
$61,000 |
|
Climate Active license fee |
$12,962 |
|
Third party verification |
Up to $15,000 |
|
Total |
$89,000 |
The cost of becoming Carbon Neutral for 2025 can be accommodated within the current (2025-26) Urban Sustainability budget.
|
1.⇩ |
Climate Active (CA) Carbon Neutral Standard |
|
2.⇩ |
Council's Carbon Inventory Calculation Summary |
|
3.⇩ |
Example Offset Projects - Climate Active Councils |
|
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Haberfield Business Roundtable
Prepared By: Simone Plummer - Director Planning
|
RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council endorse the Haberfield Roundtable Action Plan for delivery.
2. That a further report be provided for those actions that require a budget or resource allocation to the April 2026 Council meeting and include an update of those actions that have been completed.
|
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
A Business Roundtable was held to identify strategies to improve support for local businesses in the Haberfield locality. Key stakeholders included representation from local business owners and the Chamber of Commerce. The NSW Member for Summer Hill, Inner West Councillors, staff from Council and State Government agencies also attended the forum.
The Haberfield Business Roundtable provided an important opportunity for local traders and businesses to share their experiences, concerns and ideas for improving the economic vitality of the Haberfield Village. Six key themes have been captured and described in tabular form. Lead agents with responsibility and a timeframe for delivery have also been identified. This forms the Haberfield Roundtable Action Plan.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 20 May 2025, Council resolved the following in part:
2. That Council host a Roundtable with local Haberfield businesses, ASHBiz and the Member for Summer Hill, the Hon Jo Haylen MP, about ways Inner West Council and the NSW Government can better support local businesses.
In accordance with the resolution, the Haberfield Roundtable was held on the evening of 8 September 2025 at Haberfield Library. Attendees at the Haberfield Business Roundtable were from local business community along Ramsay Street and Dalhousie Street many of which were customer service-based businesses ranging from cafes, restaurants, delicatessens to dentists and medical practices.
Representatives from Service NSW and Small Business Commissioner were also in attendance and presented to the Haberfield Business Community.
DISCUSSION
The NSW Small Business Commissioner, operating through Service NSW, plays a key role in supporting small businesses by advocating on their behalf, improving the regulatory environment, and providing access to practical tools, information, and dispute resolution services. The Small Business Commissioner outlined how its department can assist local businesses in Haberfield via:
· Dedicated Support: Haberfield businesses can access Service NSW Business Concierge services for personalised help with licensing, grants, or regulatory issues.
· Collaboration with Council: Council can partner with the Commissioner’s office to host workshops or information sessions for local traders.
· Simplifying Compliance: The Commissioner’s role includes identifying and addressing regulatory barriers that impact small businesses — relevant to concerns raised in the Haberfield Business Roundtable around signage, outdoor dining, and approvals.
· Business Recovery Programs: Businesses affected by infrastructure changes, main street upgrades, or transport works can receive advice and assistance in minimising disruption.
· Promotion and Awareness: Council can promote the Commissioner’s programs and online tools (such as the Easy to do Business program) through its business networks and precinct newsletters.
Attendees were divided into several groups and asked a series of questions to gain feedback and get an understanding of the challenges and threats impacting the prosperity of their businesses.
Those questions were
1. What are the most important issues facing Haberfield businesses?
2. What key actions could the State Government and Council do to better support business sustainability?
3. What top two items would you like to see addressed in the short term?
Community feedback emphasised the need for:
1. Amenity and Streetscape: Calls for improved public spaces, better lighting, and enhanced cleanliness to attract visitors and improve the shopping experience.
2. Parking and Accessibility: Concerns around limited parking availability and turnover, affecting customer convenience and visitation.
3. Marketing and Promotion: A strong desire to position Haberfield as a heritage food and retail destination, leveraging its Italian and village identity.
4. Regulatory Flexibility: Interest in simplifying outdoor dining approvals, signage regulations and event permitting to enable more business-led activation.
5. Collaboration and Communication: Support for ongoing dialogue between Council and local traders, including the establishment of a regular business forum or precinct working group.
6. Economic activation: Opportunity to support activation through small-scale events and initiatives.
Haberfield Roundtable Action Plan
|
Theme / Issue |
Summary of Feedback |
Proposed Actions |
Lead / Partners |
Timeframe* |
|
1 Amenity and Streetscape |
Traders emphasised the need for improved cleanliness, lighting, signage, and general public domain enhancements to improve customer experience. |
Review cleaning schedules, improve lighting, and assess opportunities for minor streetscape enhancements through existing budgets. |
Council – Urban Maintenance, Place Management |
Short term |
|
2 Parking and Accessibility |
Limited parking turnover and restricted access impact business visitation. |
Undertake a review of parking management and signage; explore time-limited parking options to encourage customer turnover. |
Council – Traffic & Transport, NSW Transport |
Medium term |
|
3 Marketing and Promotion |
Businesses would like to see stronger marketing positioning Haberfield as a heritage and food destination. |
Develop a “Discover Haberfield” marketing and communications plan in collaboration with ASHBiz and traders. |
Council – Communications, ASHBiz, Local Traders |
Medium term |
|
4 Regulatory Flexibility |
Businesses requested simpler approval processes for signage, outdoor dining, and events. |
Review local approvals framework to streamline processes and provide clearer guidance to traders. |
Council – Planning, Compliance |
Medium term |
|
5 Business Collaboration and Communication |
Desire for an ongoing forum to maintain communication and monitor progress. |
Establish a quarterly Haberfield Business Forum or precinct working group to continue dialogue and joint project delivery. |
Council – Place Management, ASHBiz |
Ongoing |
|
6 Economic Activation |
Opportunity to support activation through small-scale events and initiatives. |
Explore funding opportunities for local activation and events through State programs or Council grants. |
Council – Economic Development, State Government |
Medium term |
*Short Term – for delivery by end of Financial Year – June 2025
*Medium Term – for delivery by end of this Term of Council – September 2028
Conclusion
Council officers will prioritise short-term actions such as improved street maintenance and promotion of the village as a heritage foodie destination in collaboration with ASHbiz and local businesses. Those actions requiring a longer time frame, and / or a significant budget or resource allocation will be the subject of a further report to Council in April 2026.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed short term recommendations outlined in the report. Once reviewed and costed future actions with a budget implication will form part of the 26/27 budget review.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Post Exhibition - 11-11A Edinburgh Road, Marrickville Planning Proposal Amendment to the Inner West Local Environmental Plan 2022
Prepared By: Simone Plummer - Director Planning
|
RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council as the local plan-making authority, endorse the Planning Proposal to amend the Inner West Local Environmental Plan 2022 for 11-11A Edinburgh Road, Marrickville to: b) require a minimum of 7.5% of the site area as deep soil planting.
2. That Council authorise the General Manager to finalise the Planning Proposal under section 3.36 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, including any minor/technical modifications to the proposal and supporting documentation, and forward the Planning Proposal to the State Government for publication.
|
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 Planning Proposal for 11-11A Edinburgh Road, Marrickville seeks to amend the Inner West Local Environmental Plan (LEP) 2022 to:
· allow the mapped floor space ratio of 0.95:1 to be exceeded by 2.25:1 (to a total FSR of 3.2:1), but only if the building is used for self-storage units, and
· require a minimum of 7.5% of the site area as deep soil planting.
On 11 March 2025, Council resolved to support the Planning Proposal and submit it to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure for Gateway Determination, and that, upon receipt of a positive Gateway determination, the proposal be publicly exhibited and then reported back to Council.
There are no recommended post exhibition changes to the Planning Proposal.
This report recommends that the draft LEP amendment for 11-11A Edinburgh Road, Marrickville proceeds to finalisation and that Council, as the local plan-making authority (LPMA), proceeds with the following next steps:
· Prepare instructions for the NSW Parliamentary Counsel’s Office (PCO) to draft the LEP;
· Refer mapping to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure for review; and
· Make the LEP and request the Department/ PCO to arrange notification.
BACKGROUND
Proposal Details
A Planning Proposal was lodged in November 2024 for 11-11A Edinburgh Road, Marrickville to amend the Inner West Local Environmental Plan (IWLEP) 2022 to provide self-storage uses on the site. The Planning Proposal will facilitate the development of the site for a total of 22,745sqm of floorspace comprising of self-storage units which will serve surrounding businesses and the growing population.
The proposal seeks to facilitate additional storage uses on the site through the following amendments to the IWLEP 2022 by:
· allowing the mapped floor space ratio of 0.95:1 to be exceeded by 2.25:1 (to a total FSR of 3.2:1), but only if the building is used for self-storage units, and
· requiring a minimum of 7.5% of the site area as deep soil planting.
![]()
Figure 1 The subject site outlined in red
On 11 March 2025, Council resolved to support the Planning Proposal and forward it to the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces for a Gateway determination in accordance with section 3.34 of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979.
On 2 June 2025, DPHI issued a Gateway determination (Attachment 1) stating that the proposal should proceed through the statutory LEP making process, subject to the following conditions:
|
Gateway Conditions |
Actions Taken |
|
1. Prior to exhibition, the planning proposal is to be amended to: a. ensure all planning proposal documents and supporting documentation are consistent b. remove the proposed height of building control provision c. ensure the proposed provision includes a requirement for 7.5% of the site to be provided as deep soil planting and remove the 15% requirement |
· Consistent references to gross floor area across Planning Proposal document and technical documents. · Removed references to height of building control. · Removed Council’s 15% deep soil requirement if more than 75% of the existing warehouse building is demolished. |
|
2. Public exhibition is required under section 3.34(2)(c) and clause 4 of Schedule 1 to the Act as follows: a. the planning proposal is categorised as standard as described in the Local Environmental Plan Making Guideline (Department of Planning and Environment, August 2023) and must be made publicly available for a minimum of 20 working days; and b. the planning proposal authority must comply with the notice requirements for public exhibition of planning proposals and the specifications for material that must be made publicly available along with planning proposals as identified in Local Environmental Plan Making Guideline (Department of Planning and Environment, August 2023). |
· Public Exhibition undertaken between 1 September 2025 and |
|
3. Consultation is required with the following public authorities and government agencies under section 3.34(2)(d) of the Act and/or to comply with the requirements of applicable directions of the Minister under section 9 of the Act: • Utility providers (Sydney Water, Ausgrid etc) • Sydney Airport Corporation • Civil Aviation Safety Authority • Commonwealth Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts Each public authority is to be provided with a copy of the planning proposal and any relevant supporting material via the NSW Planning Portal and given at least 30 working days to comment on the proposal. |
· Consulted the required agencies. Comments accepted between 1 September 2025 and 14 October 2025 (30 working days). |
|
4. A public hearing is not required to be held into the matter by any person or body under section 3.34(2)(e) of the Act. This does not discharge Council from any obligation it may otherwise have to conduct a public hearing (for example, in response to a submission or if reclassifying land). |
· No public hearing undertaken. |
DISCUSSION
Public Exhibition Summary
The Planning Proposal and supporting documentation were placed on public exhibition for 28 days, from 1 September 2025 to 28 September 2025, in accordance with the Gateway determination and Council’s Community Engagement Framework. Feedback was also sought from State agencies as required by the Gateway determination.
1. Engagement Activities
Public exhibition consisted of the following activities:
a) Notification Letters
235 notification letters were sent to the landowners and residents/tenants of properties in the surrounding area.
b) Your Say Page
The Your Say page went live on 1 September 2025 and provided the following information:
· Feedback dates
· Project details
· How to have your say
· Survey questions
o Q1. Do you support the Planning Proposal for 11-11A Edinburgh Road, Marrickville (Yes, No, Neutral/unsure response)
o Q2. Please comment
· Explanation of what happens next and Project Stages
An email notification about the engagement was sent to 1,242 Your Say Inner West members. There were 316 visits to the Your Say Inner West project page, and the concept architectural plans were downloaded 244 times.
Link: 11-11A Edinburgh Road, Marrickville - Planning Proposal | Your Say Inner West
c) Hard Copy Package
A hard copy package was made available at the Ashfield Service Centre, containing the Gateway documents, Planning Proposal and supporting documents.
2. Community Submissions
a) Demographics
b) Submissions Summary
All three survey submissions expressed support for the Planning Proposal. Positive feedback was provided on the deep soil requirement and how it will enhance public domain.
3. State Authority Referrals
As per the Gateway determination (Attachment 1), the following State agencies and authorities were consulted from 1 September 2025 with advice being accepted until 14 October 2025.
No objections were received from State Authorities. All advice that requires consideration prior to or at the development application stage has been forwarded to the proponent.
Sydney Water
No objection to the proposal.
Advises that further water and wastewater servicing requirements will be provided in response to future development applications. Additional approvals by Sydney Water are required if the development is anticipated to generate trade wastewater.
A Sydney Water Planning Proposal Information Sheet was provided which has been forwarded to the Proponent for consideration prior to the development application stage.
Ausgrid
No objection to the proposal.
Advises that this development type requires development consent conditions to be imposed to ensure safety and compatibility of the development and Ausgrid’s assets.
Ausgrid should be consulted again at the development application stage.
Sydney Airport Corporation
No objection to the erection of this development to a maximum height of 34.53 metres AHD.
Advised a new application must be submitted if the development were to exceed this height.
Civil Aviation Safety Authority
No objection to the erection of this development to a maximum height of 34.53 metres AHD.
Advised that cranes during construction may need assessment under Airspace Regulations.
Commonwealth Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development
No response provided.
The Proponent acknowledges and has reviewed the State Agency referrals. Further consideration will be given to these during detailed design and preparation of the DA package.
4. Engagement Outcomes
No objections were received during the public exhibition. There are no recommended post-exhibition changes for this Planning Proposal.
Conclusion
The proposal demonstrates strategic and site-specific merit and will contribute to increasing the supply of urban services in the Inner West. No changes are required to the Planning Proposal in response to submissions.
It is recommended that Council, as the Local Plan Making Authority, proceed with finalising the Planning Proposal, including undertaking the next steps to draft the legal instrument with Parliamentary Counsel’s Office and preparing the supporting maps.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
|
1.⇩ |
Gateway Determination |
|
2. |
Your Say Page Website Link: 11-11A Edinburgh Road, Marrickville - Planning Proposal | Your Say Inner West |
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Public Exhibition - Jarvie Park - Draft Plan of Management and Masterplan
Prepared By: Ryann Midei - Director Property and Major Projects
|
RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council endorse the exhibition of the Draft Plan of Management and Masterplan for Jarvie Park for a period of 42 days.
2. That Council receive a report on the outcomes of the community engagement.
|
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 5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report presents the outcomes of community engagement undertaken in 2024 for the preparation of a Draft Plan of Management and Masterplan for Jarvie Park.
The key outcomes from the community engagement undertaken to date have identified a range of park improvement opportunities, which have been incorporated into the draft masterplan for Jarvie Park.
The Draft Plan of Management also addresses Council’s resolution from May 2025, which requires the development of a public toilet facility within Jarvie Park.
The report recommends that Council proceed with public exhibition of the Draft Plan of Management for Jarvie Park for a period of 42 days. At the conclusion of the engagement period, the Plan of Management will be presented back to Council for consideration for adoption.
BACKGROUND
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 Masterplan 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.
Jarvie Park is located in the suburb of Marrickville NSW. The park is bounded by Malakoff Street to the east, Jarvie Lane and Yabsley Avenue to the north and residential homes to the west and south. Jarvie Park is south of Marrickville High School, contributing to a large youth presence in the area. Henson Park is also located approx. 250m walking to the north of Jarvie Park, offering district level sporting opportunities.
Key features of Jarvie Park include three leased premises, KU Crusader Preschool, Plumtree Children’s Services and the Midjuburi Youth Resource Centre all of which are located within the Parkland boundary. The Park is utilised for informal recreation activities with a basketball court and open lawn areas which includes picnic benches and seating. A small children’s playground is also present within the park.
Figure 1.10 Location Plan Jarvie Park

DISCUSSION
From 29 July to 25 August 2024, the community was invited to provide feedback in relation to the preparation of a draft masterplan and Plan of Management for Jarvie Park through an online survey, and interactive digital map, email, phone and notification from Council. In total 32 surveys were completed by community members, a total of 5 emails were received, and 39 pins were received on Council’s online digital map. An on-site community engagement event was held at Jarvie Park on 17 August 2024.
The key outcomes from the community engagement undertaken to date have identified a range of park improvement opportunities, which have been incorporated into the draft masterplan for Jarvie Park as detailed below:
1. Upgrading playground facilities to provide modern and accessible options that cater to children of all ages.
2. Improve parkland maintenance, increase frequency of turf care and install more bins with a higher rate of collection.
3. Enhance Parkland safety and accessibility through improved pathway lighting and levelled paths, improve signage throughout the parkland.
4. Install additional parkland amenities such as covered picnic areas and dedicated BBQ areas for family gatherings and events.
5. Address flooding and drainage issues through an enhancement to infrastructure and regular Maintenance.
6. Install new gardens and biodiversity areas, including bird and possum boxes.
7. Resurface and enhance existing basketball court, adding new multi-purpose line marking and installing new basketball and netball hoops.
8. Assess and improve parking arrangements surrounding the parkland.
9. Promote and extend local artist’s engagement with the parkland, coordinating with surrounding youth and children’s services.
These nine identified engagement outcomes informed this draft Plan of Management and accompanying draft Masterplan.
The Draft Plan of Management addresses Council’s resolution from May 2025, which required the development of a public toilet facility within Jarvie Park. The accompanying Draft Park Masterplan presents two shortlisted options for the preferred location of the toilet facility. These options have been identified following careful consideration of key community priorities, including safety by design (ensuring passive surveillance of the prospective toilet facility), current and anticipated future uses of the parkland, and any potential amenity impacts on neighboring residential properties. The two shortlisted locations for a future public toilet are denoted as Options 15a and 15b on the masterplan (refer to Attachment 2 page 36 Draft Jarvie Park Masterplan).
Next Steps
Pending Council endorsement, it is proposed that the draft Plan of Management for Jarvie Park be placed on public exhibition for 42 days. During this period, additional community engagement on the draft plan’s content will be undertaken, including the preferred location of the perspective toilet. At the conclusion of the engagement period, the Plan of Management will be presented back to Council for consideration for adoption.
Stakeholder engagement will be facilitated through a weekend park pop-up stall, as well as via Council’s YourSay Engagement Platform. Additionally, all residents and park users who have previously participated in the engagement framework will be contacted and invited to provide further input into the Plan of Management process. On-site signage will be installed to promote the community engagement process, and flyers will be distributed via a letterbox drop to neighbouring households.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
A comprehensive cost analysis of the Plan of Management masterplan has been completed considering the key design improvements and delivery options for the parkland over the lifespan of the Plan. The cost estimates for the delivery of the masterplan over a ten-year period have been estimated at $3.9 million. The consideration of the listed projects will form part of the annual budget planning process for funding allocation. It’s worth noting that a budget of $350,000 has been allocated for the future provision of a public toilet (accessible) within the park. The construction of the toilet block is scheduled for delivery in the 2026/27 financial year.
Attachments 1-2 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.⇨ |
Jarvie Park Draft Plan of Management - Published Separately on Council’s website |
|
2.⇨ |
Draft Masterplan - Jarvie Park - Published Separately on Council’s website |
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Public Exhibition - Weed Management Policy
Prepared By: Peter Shields - Director Engineering
|
RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council publicly exhibit and receive feedback on the draft Weed Management Policy, as appended to this report, for a period no less than 28 days.
2. That following the conclusion of the exhibition period, the draft Weed Management Policy 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:
|
1: An ecologically sustainable Inner West |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In 2019 Inner West Council adopted its first Weed Management Policy and Pesticide Notification Plan. This Policy is now the subject of a routine review.
The current approach taken by Council to manage weeds is generally considered to be a success. The Policy imposes robust requirements to manage weeds and the operational activities implemented by Council are highly regulated. The policy itself provides a high-level commitment to the practices taken by Council to manage weeds whilst providing adequate flexibility for operational resourcing to adjust services to suit any evolving needs.
Council staff have reviewed the Policy for currency, community feedback received since the previous review and operational requirements. A draft policy has now been developed for the purposes of community consultation. The draft Policy essentially makes no change to current weed management practices, and all changes proposed are administrative in nature.
This report recommends that Council proceeds with the public exhibition of the Weed Management Policy for a minimum of 28 days. It also recommends that a further report then be prepared for Council which summarises the public exhibition process and recommends for the adoption of an updated Weed Management Policy.
BACKGROUND
In 2019, the Inner West Council unified the weed management practices of the former Ashfield, Marrickville, and Leichhardt councils into the first Inner West Weed Management Policy. This policy is subject to a review during this term if Council, and arrangements are now proceeding to have an updated Policy adopted in early 2026.
The Weed Management Policy provides a high-level commitment to the practices taken by Council to manage weeds. The policy provides flexibility for operational resourcing to adjust services to the meet the evolving needs of managing weeds within the local government area.
The current weed management policy is considered by Council officers to be highly successful, on the basis that Council receives ongoing positive community feedback regarding weed management, and that operational costs are adequately managed. All weeding activities are monitored, with detailed records maintained of works dates, locations, method used, weather conditions, and works times. Staff conducting weed management are adequately trained and certified for the required services. Operational leaders conduct routine inspections of equipment and works locations to ensure adherence to policy.
DISCUSSION
Weed Spraying
Council operations use weed sprays as a last resort, applying them only when other methods are ineffective and for spot control of persistent weeds. Any weed spray use must be executed to prevent runoff into stormwater drains and waterways. Council officers continue to monitor scientific developments regarding weed sprays and adjust practices as necessary.
Sensitive Areas and Verge Gardens
Weed management in sensitive areas is conducted using steam weeding, high pressure water jets, mechanical weeding or manual methods. The Council's main street high-pressure cleaning team manages weed control across sensitive areas in the LGA. This team performs targeted deep cleaning with hot water on a six-week frequency to remove silt and seed banks from footpaths and gutters, effectively managing weeds in our main street shopping canters. Regular hand weeding and deep cleaning are also conducted in other sensitive areas.
The Council does not apply weed sprays in verge gardens managed under the Sustainable Streets program. These community gardens are maintained by community groups and residents who apply for and sign up for the program. Management of these areas is a collaborative effort between the community, residents, and the Council's Urban Ecology team through the Adopt-a-Spot program.
Policy Review
The existing Weed Management Policy has been reviewed for currency, community feedback received since the previous review and operational requirements. A draft Policy has now been developed for the purposes of community consultation. The draft Policy essentially makes no change to current weed management practices, and all changes proposed are administrative in nature. This Policy will next be reviewed in 2028, unless unforeseen matters arise warranting an earlier review.
Community Consultation
It is recommended that Council place the draft Weed Management Policy on public exhibition for the period of no less than 28 days. The public exhibition shall be promoted on Council’s website and via social media channels.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
|
1.⇩ |
Draft Weed Management Policy |
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Local Transport Forum Meeting - 20 October 2025
Prepared By: Peter Shields - Director Engineering
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive and adopt the recommendations of the Local Transport Forum meeting held on 20 October 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 October 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 – October
|
Ward |
Item |
|
Baludarri (Balmain)
|
Cecily Street, Lilyfield – Proposed ‘No Stopping’ and 'No Parking’ zones |
|
Gulgadya (Leichhardt)
|
Nil. |
|
Midjuburi (Marrickville)
|
Sydney Street, Marrickville – Temporary full road closure for Summer Fair 2025 Event – Saturday 13 December 2025 |
|
Annette Kellerman Aquatic Centre (AKAC) and Enmore Park Parking Study - Proposed timed parking restrictions |
|
|
Djarrawunang (Ashfield)
|
Hurlstone Avenue, Summer Hill - Implementation of 'No Left Turn 7.30 - 9.30am, 3.00 - 5.00pm, Mon - Fri, Bicycles Excepted' from Prospect Road into Hurlstone Avenue |
|
|
Lackey Street & Smith Street (between Moonbie Street and Nowraine Street), Summer Hill- ENRC/2025/0067 Temporary Full Road Closure- 'Summer Hill Social' Event on Sunday 8 March 2026 |
|
|
Elizabeth Street (at Edwin Street North), Croydon- Proposed upgrade to a new raised pedestrian crossing |
|
Damun (Stanmore) |
Brighton Street, between Wentworth Street and The Avenue, Petersham – Proposed raised pedestrian crossing replacing existing raised threshold - Design Plan 10355 |
|
Brighton Street at Railway Street, Petersham- Proposed Raised Pedestrian crossing |
|
|
All Wards |
Nil. |
|
1.⇩ |
Local Transport Forum minutes - 20 October 2025 |
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Town Hall Open Day Festival Update
Prepared By: Ruth Callaghan - Director Community
|
RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council endorse the proposed Town Hall Open Day Festival schedule as outlined in the report.
2. That funding of $5,000 form part of the 2026/27 second quarter budget review.
3. That funding of $15,000 form part of the 2026/27 budget consideration.
|
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
This report proposes a format and schedule for the Town Hall Open Days to run across the Council’s seven town halls. The Open Days will run over a two-year cycle and the report outlines potential dates for the 2026 program for each venue as well as possible content for the program.
In October 2025, Council resolved that staff provide a revised schedule for Open Day Festivals to be separate from existing festivals. The request sought a new approach where the Open Days should be standalone events separate to existing festivals to ensure engagement with local business and an appropriate showcase for Creative Town Halls.
Separating the Open Days into standalone events results in the loss of some economies of scale. An increase of $20,000 over the two-year cycle will now be required to cover costs such as staffing and programming, which would have been covered by sharing costs with established events.
A separate Communications plan will be provided in December as per the Council resolution, which will detail costings required for an associated Communications plan.
BACKGROUND
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 participants in the Creative Town Halls project.
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 28 October 2025, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council receive and note the report.
2. That Council staff bring a revised report to the November 2025 meeting with a revised proposed schedule for Open Day Festivals separate to existing festivals.
3. That Council receive a report back to the December 2025 meeting on a draft example communications and promotional strategy for the Open Day Festivals, including branding, social and digital media, banners, posters, and other physical advertising, the Tourism Action Plan, and external creative and culture venues, platforms, and networks – and include indicative costs.
DISCUSSION
Building on the success of Creative Town Halls program, this new program is a new series of one-day events celebrating the creative life of the Inner West. Each event will open a different town hall to showcase local artists, makers and performers, transforming these civic spaces into vibrant hubs of community connection.
The Town Hall Open Days program will showcase current users of the successful Creative Town Halls program as well as Community Venues bookings.
The program will involve seven standalone events to be run over a two-year cycle. These events would not be aligned with established events and would require their own communications plan to encourage audience attendance.
A consecutive schedule would provide more impact and profile for the program and would dovetail well into a focused communications plan.
The proposed schedule for 2026 is:
· St Peters Town Hall Open Day – Saturday 2 May 2026
· Leichhardt Town Hall Open Day – Saturday 16 May 2026
· Balmain Town Hall Open Day – Saturday 30 May 2026
In 2027, the second year of the program, the following events would be delivered. Scheduled dates for these events would be presented to Council in 2026:
· Ashfield Town Hall Open Day
· Petersham Town Hall Open Day
· Marrickville Town Hall Open Day
· Annandale Town Hall Open Day
The Open Day program provides an opportunity for the Inner West community to gain insight on Council’s Town Hall programs as well as showcasing the depth of talent in the Inner West creative sector. It is proposed that an information stand is made available at each event to provide information to potential users of the town halls and to inform them on ways to access the town halls for Inner West creatives. In addition to this a creative marketplace could be included, taking place at each venue with different artists and providing an opportunity for local creative businesses.
The proposed format for each Open Day would run as following:
|
Running times for each event – 11am – 3pm |
|
Information stand on Creative Uses of Town Hall program and other “pop up” stalls with local content |
|
Showcase of current users of the venues including music and theatre. |
|
Creative marketplace – showcasing local artists and creatives |
A report detailing communications and marketing plans for this program will be provided to Council in December, which will outline costs required to successfully promote the program.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
In making the events standalone, some economies of scale are lost and as result additional funds of $5,000 will be required for each venue which was previously connected with an established event, resulting in an additional $20,000 for the program. This is for additional staffing and programming costs.
This additional funding would be provided to Open Days at Marrickville Town Hall, Ashfield Town Hall, Balmain Town Hall and St Peters Town Hall, which had previously been linked to established events.
As such the allocation of an additional $5,000 will required from Q2 2025/26 budget considerations and an additional $15,000 to be sourced from 2026/27 budget.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Love your Club Network and Grant Program
Prepared By: Ruth Callaghan - Director Community
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council approve the Love Your Club grant program for small registered clubs.
|
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
4: Healthy, resilient and caring communities |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The first meeting of the Inner West Small Clubs Network was held on 30 October 2025.
The meeting discussed a presentation on sustainability at Petersham Bowling Club from its President. It also considered the research from the Love your Club survey, discussed draft terms of reference for the Inner West Small Clubs Network, and discussed the structure and content of the planned meetings of the Inner West Small Clubs Network in 2026.
It was agreed that the Network would meet once a month from February 2026, with the initial meeting to be hosted by Leichhardt Bowling Club. Council will facilitate presentation of the professional development content in collaboration with the host club. The meeting also discussed the proposed Love your Club grants program criteria, and Council’s resolution on how eligibility would work. This included the pledge to transition away from poker machines, which was supported.
It is proposed that applications for the new Love Your Club program open in December 2025 and close February 2026. This enables funds to be allocated in the 2025/26 financial year for expenditure by clubs during 2026/2027.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 3 December 2024, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council endorse the proposed Love Your Club program including the establishment of the Inner West Small Clubs Network.
2. That Council host a forum of the Inner West Small Clubs Network once established, inviting all local small clubs to attend and provide input on the program, and with George Catsi invited as guest speaker.
3. That as part of the program, Council develop:
a) a pledge which local clubs can opt to sign onto, committing their intention to transition away from poker machine revenue; and
b) a grants application process open to clubs who sign the pledge through which Council can assist local clubs with minor infrastructure projects.
4. That Council include information in the program on how local clubs can apply to be designated as Special Entertainment Precincts.
5. That Council receive a report back on the above initiatives to the March 2025 Council meeting.
At the Council meeting held on 11 March 2025, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council receive and note the report.
2. That Council allocate funding of $50,000 to the small grants program to support clubs with minor infrastructure projects who have either signed the pledge to, or already transitioned away from, reliance on poker machine revenue. Part of this funding is to be repurposed from the existing small grants pool and the Communities directorate budget, with the rest identified as part of 2025/26 budget considerations.
3. That Council allocate additional funding to the Network for initiatives to support local clubs identified through the consultation process, with an amount to be determined as part of 2025/26 budget considerations.
4. That Council consult with the Network on developing a Terms of Reference for the Network, including but not limited to:
a) support for clubs who express interest in transitioning away from reliance on poker machine revenue to do so, b) support for clubs to be designated as Special Entertainment Precincts and host more live music and diverse events,
b) support with minor infrastructure projects and maintenance,
c) other areas identified in consultation with the Network.
At the Council meeting held on 23 September 2025, Council resolved the following in part:
3. That per previous Council resolution regarding the Love Your Club program, that Council develop and report to the November 2025 Council Meeting on a grant program to assist local community clubs with minor infrastructure projects, subject to the following eligibility criteria:
a) Applicants must be members of the Small Clubs Network; and
b) Applicants must sign a pledge of intention to transition away from poker machine revenue or to remain poker machine-free.
In February 2025, Council invited 13 small local registered clubs to participate in the Love your Club survey and interview process. From this, 8 clubs provided online survey responses, and a further 5 clubs participated in verbal interviews.
Those clubs that participated in the survey and interviews identified opportunities to work together including grant writing, disability access, financial viability, and management of bowling greens/playing surfaces, assets and volunteer management.
Asset management is a concern and is linked to the issue of grants (lack of ability to gain capital upgrade funds), technical expertise (asset management expertise that might be strengthened) and financial health. Workshops in these areas were seen as potentially beneficial along with sharing how other clubs are currently approaching issues, what support is available and what support is required to effectively manage club assets.
DISCUSSION
Inner West Small Clubs Network
Council convened the first meeting of the Inner West Small Clubs Network on 30 October 2025. The Inner West Small Clubs Network meeting agenda included:
· a sustainability presentation from the President of Petersham Bowling Club
· discussion of the research with local clubs and potential areas for shared work with the Inner West Small Clubs Network.
· the draft terms of reference for the Network.
· the proposed grant program for infrastructure needs and the pledge which local clubs can opt to sign onto, committing their intention to transition away from poker machine revenue, as outlined in the Council motion.
The Network considered and agreed its draft Terms of Reference:
· to explore together opportunities to build community connection through local clubs
· to develop a social learning group among club staff and directors
· to share professional development on areas of mutual interest
· to work together to build mutual sustainability
· to share asset management and redevelopment knowledge.
These will be distributed with the meeting notes and considered for adoption at the next meeting, along with information about how local clubs can apply to be designated as Special Entertainment Precincts.
Monthly meetings of the Inner West Small Clubs Network will commence from February 2026, and meetings are anticipated to rotate from club to club each month. Each club will showcase their financial sustainability work, and at each meeting Council and the club will work together to provide professional development input that will likely benefit the host club and other attendees. The club managers and directors will be invited. The first meeting will be hosted by Leichhardt Bowling Club.
Love Your Club grant program
The Love Your Club grant program is proposed to support small local registered clubs with minor infrastructure projects with financial assistance of up to $5,000 each. These projects will require a co-contribution from the applicant club and could include the following:
· internal or external physical infrastructure upgrades, maintenance or redevelopment at the club
· lighting, sound or entertainment infrastructure upgrades
· maintenance of playing greens or playing surfaces.
The applications will be invited through Council’s usual grants software, Smarty Grants. To proceed to drafting a funding proposal, the individual applying on behalf of each club will need to agree to a pledge committing their organisation’s intention to transition away from poker machine revenue or to remain poker machine free. In this way the requirements of the Council motion, become a condition of the application.
Applications will be evaluated by Council officers with relevant expertise, then a panel, including one external will finalise scoring and formulate recommendations for Council. It is proposed to open the applications in late December 2025 and close in late January.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
At total of $50,000 is to be made available for the grants. Funding of $15,000 has been identified within the Community Directorate budget and the remaining $35,000 will be part of the second quarterly budget review for 2025/26.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Events at Dawn Fraser Baths
Prepared By: Ruth Callaghan - Director Community
|
RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council promote and advertise the availability of Dawn Fraser Baths for events to commence from December 2025.
2. That the promotion material includes weddings or corporate style events, community activations and celebrations, potential creative use and bookings for children’s birthday parties.
|
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
4: Healthy, resilient and caring communities |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The potential to increase hire of Dawn Fraser Baths for community and private events is being actively explored, with a focus on maintaining its recreational integrity while broadening its use. The revised lease arrangements made in August 2024 with the State Government now allow for small-scale private events, and Council is implementing promotional strategies to increase awareness and bookings.
Council staff will develop a hirers agreement that can be customised for specific events as well as consideration of appropriate fee scales for weddings and other private uses. Consideration will be given to Council’s Fee Policy.
There are opportunities for additional events/usage particularly in off peak periods such as April- September each year when the pool is closed for the winter period. In addition, the ‘shoulder season’ of October- November and March- April also experiences lower overall attendances and therefore opportunities to consider a broader range of usage that can take place concurrently with community access.
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.
In addition to the above, at the Council meeting held on 28 October 2055, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council receive and note the report.
2. That Council note that the February 2025 Council resolution to identify how more events could be held at the Baths was not reported back in April 2025 as required and has not been carried out.
3. That Council provide the aforementioned report to the November 2025 Ordinary Council meeting.
DISCUSSION
Inner West Council operates Dawn Fraser Baths (DFB) under a lease agreement with Transport for NSW that expires in 2042. In August 2024 Council negotiated a variation to the lease which now makes it more flexible for use for private functions and events such as weddings. Section 18.2 of the Lease Variation (attached) states that “the Lessee may enter into a Function Licence with a Responsible Person” as long as there is “no adverse or material impact on the quiet enjoyment of nearby residential properties”. In addition, the event operator must have a valid liquor licence, observe RSA practices and acknowledge that “if alcohol is to be served swimming is not allowed at any time”.
In addition to the lease conditions, Council’s own ongoing Conditions of Consent for DFB require that:
· consideration is given to light spill and nighttime amenity
· the water polo flood lights are switched off no later than 11pm seven days per week; and
· the baths are to function as an outdoor community aquatic facility across summer time and daylight saving – opening from 7am-7pm from early October to mid April.
Within the prescriptions of the lease and operational constraints there are now more opportunities for events and activations. Consideration will be given to ensuring that the primary function of recreational use for the community, including water polo and winter swimmers are considered.
The table below outlines attendance and usage for the DFB throughout the standard summer operating season. The DFB opens for 7 days per week during daylight hours and also opens for limited evenings to accommodate water polo games and training under lights.
Table 1 Breakdown of attendance & bookings for Dawn Fraser baths 2022/23 season

Based on the visit data above, it is clear that the facility is well utilised throughout the peak summer period when it operates 7 days per week providing access for swimmers, water polo entry, schools use and general recreation.
Potential events that can now be considered for delivery at DFB include:
o Weddings or Corporate style events: Council staff will Identify appropriate times and operational requirements that enable the opportunity to capitalise on the Baths' scenic location by promoting it for various events, meetings and private functions. This could also provide additional income over time
o Partnerships: Engaging with local businesses and event planners, enhancing offerings and provide the community with bespoke services for activations and celebrations
o Potential creative use on the weekends such as light background music over the that will not impact adjacent residents
o Bookings for children’s birthday parties
As summarised above, event and private use of the facility is subject to a range of operational and safety considerations. Controls to minimise impacts associated with these events will be determined by reviewing the nature of each event on a case-by-case basis. A use agreement for private hirers will set out the conditions of any event as per the lease and other conditions so that Council’s potential liability is managed and events are managed within the context of both the lease and consent conditions.
Promotion of the Baths as a bookable venue is ongoing, with a focus on increasing community awareness. Current 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 Clubs. This can be extended through information in Council’s newsletter and updates on opportunities for private use.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
Any financial implications arising from the delivery of more events at DFB under hirers agreements are likely to be positive and generate additional income.
|
1.⇩ |
DFB Variation of Lease - Functions 2024 Lessee Executed |
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Pratten Park Masterplan Advisory Committee
Prepared By: Ryann Midei - Director Property and Major Projects
|
RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council endorse the roles and responsibilities of the Pratten Park Masterplan Advisory Committee as highlighted in the report.
2. That Council endorse the proposed membership of the Pratten Park Masterplan Advisory Committee to include: a) All Ward Councillors; b) Pratten Park Bowling Club (1 member plus 1 alternate); c) Canterbury and District Football Association (1 member plus 1 alternate); d) Ashfield Pirates Football Club (1 member plus 1 alternate); e) Western Suburbs Lawn Tennis Association (1 member plus 1 alternate); f) Western Suburbs District Cricket Club (1 member plus 1 alternate); g) Ashfield and District Historical Society (1 member plus 1 alternate); and h) A member of the Access Local Democracy Group (1 member plus 1 alternate).
|
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport 5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report provides advice to Council on the establishment of a sporting clubs advisory committee for the implementation of the adopted Plan of Management for Pratten Park. The report outlines the proposed membership of the committee, its governance structure and meeting schedule.
The report also highlights the key projects which any future advisory committee will focus on. It is proposed that the advisory committee is referred to as the Pratten Park Masterplan Advisory Committee.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 28 October 2025, Council resolved the following in part:
1. That Council establish a Pratten Park Advisory Committee to provide input and advice on the Pratten Park Plan of Management.
3. That Council table a report for the November 2025 Ordinary Council meeting proposing the membership of the advisory committee for the endorsement by Council.
5. That a place on the advisory committee be offered to a member of the Access Local Democracy Group to provide advisory input.
A Plan of Management (PoM) for Pratten Park was adopted in April 2023 and has received Crown Lands approval for the proposed works, including upgrades to the park, sports facilities, bowling club, amenities, playground, and car park. Council has committed to the delivery of a number of long-term masterplan improvements to Pratten Park importantly, the development of an architectural design and feasibility study for a potential second story on top of the existing Bowling Club which includes detailed consultation with local sporting clubs. Work on this project has commenced and Council officers are currently in the process of the shortlisting specialist architectural advice for this project.
DISCUSSION
The creation of a Pratten Park Masterplan Advisory Committee is to provide input and advice on the implementation of the Pratten Park Plan of Management. The proposed remit of the advisory committee will be strategically focussed on the delivery, advice and support of the Plan of Management and its masterplan and is not designed to provide operational advice on the day-to-day management of the parkland. It is anticipated that the advisory committee will ensure that the views and aspiration of all park users are considered.
The committee would also consider conceptual design plans developed by Council and potential future community and stakeholder use of the parklands.
As part of its advisory role the committee will take into account:
· Adopted Council priorities
· Adopted Pratten Park Plan of Management
· Existing leases and licenses
· Future population projections
· Historical use and management of Pratten Park
· Community access and safety
· Diversity in community recreation and access needs
· Strategic grant opportunities and operational budget feasibility
· Legislative requirements pertaining to the management and development of the parkland.
Roles and Responsibility
The Pratten Park Masterplan Advisory Committee serves as an advisory group. Comprising stakeholders with a broad range of expertise, its role is to provide informed advice to Council, which remains the decision-maker. The Committee also offers a forum for Council to communicate project updates and foster collaborative engagement throughout the masterplan process.
The following roles and responsibilities are proposed for appointed advisory committee members:
· To provide strategic advice on design and stakeholder issues and opportunities for the implementation of the Pratten Park Masterplan.
· To provide stakeholder insight on key parkland access, use and management issues which will assist Council officers with the design and implementation of key management priorities within the parkland
· To represent the views of their respective clubs and ensure that the feedback of their respective clubs is obtained for all masterplan implementation projects.
· To act with integrity, honesty and with respect to others at all times.
Membership
It is expected that the Pratten Park Masterplan Advisory Committee members will be representative of community interests which are directly related to the current and future functionality of Pratten Park.
The proposed stakeholder membership for the Pratten Park Masterplan Advisory Committee will include:
a) All Ward Councillors;
b) Pratten Park Bowling Club (1 member plus 1 alternate);
c) Canterbury and District Football Association (1 member plus 1 alternate);
d) Ashfield Pirates Football Club (1 member plus 1 alternate);
e) Western Suburbs Lawn Tennis Association (1 member plus 1 alternate);
f) Western Suburbs District Cricket Club (1 member plus 1 alternate);
g) Ashfield and District Historical Society (1 member plus 1 alternate); and
h) A member of the Access Local Democracy Group (1 member plus 1 alternate).
Each club will be contacted to nominate both a primary member and an alternate prior to the initial meeting.
The member and alternate from the Access Local Democracy Group will be selected by the group.
For each meeting, only the designated member or their alternate may attend—not both.
Appropriate Council officers will also be present at each meeting.
Payment
Membership on the Pratten Park Masterplan Advisory Committee is unpaid, with all roles being voluntary.
Meeting Schedules
Meetings will be convened on a quarterly basis, or as required, commencing from early February 2026.
Term of Engagement
The recommended term of engagement for the Pratten Park Masterplan Advisory Committee is from its commencement date (early February 2026) through to the completion and delivery of a refurbished and fully operational second story on the existing Bowling Club.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Camperdown Memorial Rest Park – Extension of Hire Agreement
Prepared By: Ryann Midei - Director Property and Major Projects
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council approve a 12-month extension of the hire agreement and approvals under the Local Government Act 1993 to allow the Camperdown Memorial Rest Park draft Plan of Management to be placed on public exhibition and approved by Council.
|
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
Following community representation to councillors, an application for the Comedor Restaurant at 182 Australia Street, Newtown to trade from a rear servery window into the adjoining Camperdown Rest Memorial Park was considered by Council at its November 2024 Ordinary Council Meeting. A temporary (12 month) hirers agreement was issued pending Council‘s consideration of the Camperdown Rest Memorial Park Plan of Management (POM).
While the POM has progressed, it has not yet been brought to Council for consideration, and an application has been made by the proprietor to extend the hirers agreement until the POM has been finalised.
This report considers the background and history of the hirers agreement and local government approval for trading into the Camperdown Rest Memorial Park and recommends a further extension of 12 months to enable the POM to be finalised.
BACKGROUND
This report provides a summary of the background of an agreement with Comedor Restaurant to install a temporary structure behind 182 Australia Street, Newtown and serve food and drinks into the Camperdown Memorial Rest Park.
In mid-2024 Council officers, under delegated authority, granted both a license (Attachment 1) and a hirers agreement (Attachment 2) to the proprietor of the Comedor Restaurant to serve from a rear window into the Camperdown Rest Memorial Park. Following community representations Council resolved, at the Council meeting held on 3 September 2024 the following:
1. That Council agree that staff work with the owner of 182 Australia Street, Newtown to defer installation of any infrastructure in the park and investigate revoking the short term lease to allow for community consultation to occur.
2. That community consultation be used to inform a recommendation to be considered at a future Council meeting.
3. That where Council considers licenses, leases, and temporary hire agreements concerning use of public space within Inner West parks, that this is done in accordance with Council's endorsed Community Engagement Strategy, encompassing the Your Say website, letterboxing, notices, and stalls, and includes engagement with residents, park users, and local businesses.
4. That Council write to households in streets surrounding the Park informing them of the lease agreement and terms, how to provide feedback through the Your Say page and other Council channels, and inviting them to attend an on-site meeting at the Park with senior staff about the agreement - to be held within the next fortnight.
5. That Council provide an urgent briefing to councillors on
the terms of the lease
agreement, including opportunities to defer
installation of the temporary structure
pending further community consultation, how
similar agreements have operated
elsewhere, and opportunities for further
community consultation as part of the Park Plan of Management.
Accordingly, the installation of the temporary structure at the rear of Comedor Restaurant was paused and community consultation commenced. Following the completion of the actions required by the resolution a further report was brought to the 12 November 2024 Council meeting, where it was resolved:
1. That Council approve a hirers agreement and approvals under the Local Government Act 1993 that are in accordance with an amended proposal as outlined in the report including reducing the size of the temporary outdoor structure to extend 2.5 metres from the wall into the Park.
2. That Council reaffirms that the agreement is for a 12-month trial, with continuation of the agreement to be considered by Council as part of the Camperdown Memorial Rest Park Plan of Management, which is currently under development.
3. That Council resolves that future addition of outdoor seating as part of the agreement and approvals is to be considered as part of the Plan of Management and included in the draft Plan for community exhibition.
4. That Council reaffirms that the temporary outdoor structure is accessible to members of the public for use both during and outside of trading hours, in line with similar structures installed at other parks in the Inner West.
The temporary structure was reduced to 2.5 metres into Camperdown Rest Memorial Park. A 12-month trial was approved (1 December 2024 – 30 November 2025) that required the temporary structure to remain publicly accessible, with future use and seating to be considered in the Park’s Plan of Management.
The Park’s Plan of Management is proposed to be brought up to Council in first half of 2026 for consideration and placement on public exhibition and thereafter, approved for implementation. As the temporary hirers agreement and the local government approval expire in November 2025, the proprietor has sought an extension while awaiting the POM to be finalised.
DISCUSSION
Following the installation of the temporary structure and the appropriate approvals and agreements being reached the trading into the Camperdown Memorial Rest Park has been sporadic.
Between February and July 2025, Comedor Restaurant was offered for sale, but no sale occurred. A Modification to the development approval is being pursued by Comedor Restaurant and is currently with Council’s development assessment area.
In mid-August 2025, the Hirer advised Council that trading from the servery window would restart and it did so on 10 September 2025.
Since reopening, the Hirer has followed all Council resolutions from the 12 November 2024 Council meeting and Hire Agreement terms, and no complaints have been received.
The servery window’s hours of trade are seven days per week, Monday to Friday 7 am–4 pm and Saturday to Sunday 8 am–4 pm, which fall within the current development approval times.
This report recommends that Council approve a 12-month extension of the hire agreement and approvals under the Local Government Act 1993 to allow the Camperdown Memorial Rest Park draft Plan of Management to be placed on public exhibition and approved by Council.
Camperdown Memorial Rest Park – Plan of Management
The Plan of Management for Camperdown Memorial Rest Park is currently being finalised for future consideration by Council. It’s worth noting that the preparation of the Plan has been impacted by landownership matters identified by Crown Lands. These issues are being addressed as part of the Plan of Management process.
It is anticipated that the Draft Plan of Management and a proposed future master plan for the parklands will be reported for community exhibition purposes to the March 2026 Ordinary Council meeting.
Conclusion
The proposal for service from the rear of the Comedor Restaurant into Camperdown Rest Memorial Park has undergone community consultation, resulting in an amended hire agreement with a smaller temporary structure and a 12-month trial.
Future use and seating will be considered in the Park’s Plan of Management, which is expected to be publicly exhibited in early 2026 and then approved for implementation.
It is recommended to extend the hire agreement and Local Government Act 1993 approvals for 12 months until the Camperdown Memorial Rest Park Plan of Management is approved and implemented, under the same hire agreement terms and conditions.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
The extension to the hire agreement will be charged in line with the previous agreement, in the amount of $5,200 plus GST for the 12-month period.
Council continues to hold a security deposit of $5,000 to ensure the hirer’s obligations are met under the hire agreement.
|
1.⇩ |
s68 - Approval for Camperdown Memorial Rest Park - 182 Australia Street |
|
2.⇩ |
Camperdown Memorial Rest Park - Final Hire Agreement - Fully Executed |
|
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Investment Report at 31 October 2025
Prepared 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 October 2025:
· Council made $9M of new investments, comprising:
· $6M 12-month Green Term Deposit with Westpac at fixed rate of 4.34%pa
· $3M 3-year Floating Rate Note with Teachers Mutual Bank at a floating rate of 4.535%pa
· $5M of investments matured, comprising:
· $5M 12-month Green Term Deposit with Westpac at fixed rate of 5.02%pa
· Council’s market value investment portfolio size is $190.3M, $4.0M higher than last month.
· Council’s portfolio had an annualised return of 4.39% pa on a marked-to-market basis, performing well against the ‘AusBond Bank Bill Index’ Benchmark of 3.55% pa.
· For the past 12 months, the portfolio has returned 4.55% pa on a marked-to-market basis (outperforming the benchmark by 0.44%)
· 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 November 2025 and December 2025, with interest rates expected to decline by early-mid 2026.
BACKGROUND
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. This report details 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 resolved 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
· 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
· 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 $9M comprising:
· $6M 12-month Green Term Deposit with Westpac at fixed rate of 4.34%pa
· $3M 3-year Floating Rate Note with Teachers Mutual Bank at a floating rate of 4.535%pa
Matured investments of $5M comprising:
· $5M 12-month Green Term Deposit with Westpac at fixed rate of 5.02%pa
Investment advice provided to Council suggested that with further rate cuts priced in over the next 12 months, we can choose to allocate a small proportion of medium to longer-term funds and undertake an insurance policy by investing across 1-5 year fixed deposits or fixed bonds, locking in and targeting yields above 4.25% p.a. Should inflation be within the RBA’s target band of 2-3% over the longer-term, returns around 4.25% p.a. or higher should outperform benchmark. Council followed this advice in making the new investments during the month, by locking in rates above 4% p.a. for 12-month and 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 31 October 2025.
Council’s market value investment portfolio size is $190.3M (as set out in the table below), $4.0M higher compared with the prior month market value of $186.3M.

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.
Council’s portfolio during the month had an annualised return of 4.39% pa on a marked-to-market basis, performing well against the ‘AusBond Bank Bill Index’ Benchmark of 3.55% pa. For the past 12 months, the portfolio has returned 4.55% 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
External / Internal Restrictions & Working Funds

Other Investment Information
US and China trade headlines swung risk markets over the past month. Risk sentiment improved as the month progressed amid renewed optimism that US-China trade tensions may ease, whilst also being buoyed by another US rate cut.
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 October, at the short end of the curve (under 12 months), the average deposit rates offered by the domestic major banks remained relatively flat compared to where they were the previous month (September), after the market pushed back on rate cut expectations. At the longer end of the curve (2-5 years), the average rates were around ~10bp higher compared to where they were the previous month following the higher-than-expected quarterly inflation figure.

Domestic issues
The following issues are being considered in Council’s investment strategy:
· The latest RBA Minutes reaffirmed that future decisions will be “cautious and data dependent”. They consider policy to be "probably still a little restrictive but acknowledged the extent of restriction was difficult to determine". The next RBA rate decision will be on 4 November 2025.
· The consumer price index (CPI) rose +1.3% in the September 2025 quarter and +3.2% annually. The trimmed mean annual inflation figure surged up to +3.0% to the September quarter, up from +2.7% in the June quarter. The market has pushed back the timing of the next interest rate cut to around mid-2026, with some economists now forecasting no more rate cuts this cycle.
· Financial markets are now only factoring one additional rate cut by mid-2026, potentially taking the official cash rate down to 3.35%.
· The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose to 4.5% in September, up from a revised 4.3% in August, the highest level since November 2021. The underemployment rate rose by 0.2% to 5.9% in September.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
|
1.⇩ |
Investment Commentary - October 2025 |
|
2.⇩ |
Investment Report - October 2025 |
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Leichhardt Oval Refurbishment - Monthly Project Update
Prepared 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 an update to 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 have been engaged and are undertaking site-based and desktop investigations to inform the detailed design and ensure alignment with the approved scope.
The project was presented to the NSW State Design Review Panel (SDRP) in October 2025, marking a key milestone. Design work continues throughout October and November 2025 with the aim of submitting the State Significant Development Application (SSDA) in December 2025.
A comprehensive governance framework is in place, supported by monthly reporting to key Council committees. NSW Public Works Advisory has been appointed as the independent assurance consultant, providing project oversight.
Construction is scheduled to commence in October 2026, with completion anticipated by February 2028.
BACKGROUND
In October 2023 Inner West 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
Cox Architecture was also appointed as Principal Design Consultant, leading a multidisciplinary team covering structural, electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, planning, heritage, accessibility, and Building Code of Australia compliance. With over 60 years of experience, Cox Architecture brings deep expertise in stadia and elite sports facility design, with a strong focus on venue functionality, digital integration, and spectator experience.
A robust governance framework is in place, including a Project Control Group chaired by the General Manager as Project Sponsor.
Rider Levitt Bucknall (RLB) 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.
NSW Public Works Advisory has been appointed as the independent project assurance consultant, responsible for monthly reporting and oversight of performance, cost, and schedule. Reports are tabled at key governance forums to support transparency and informed decision-making.
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.
Planning approval will follow the State Significant Development (SSD) pathway, as the estimated cost exceeds $30 million. The NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) is the Consent Authority. Planning activities are underway to meet the Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements.
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.
Throughout the month, the project team and its consultants made ongoing progress in advancing the design development. Revisions to the design and supporting documentation are currently in progress to enhance the planning approval submission, incorporating the team’s review of feedback received from the State Design Review Panel (SDRP). Design work continues throughout October and November with the aim of submitting the State Significant Development Application (SSDA) in December 2025.
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
Council has allocated $40 million in the draft 2025/2026 Long Term Financial Plan and will pursue additional State and Commonwealth grant funding. Staging of works may be considered to align with available funding.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Item No: C1125(1) Item 17
Subject: Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre Upgrade - Monthly Project Update
Prepared 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 |
This report provides a monthly update on the Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre (LPAC) Upgrade.
Stage 1 works (mushroom pool and a new kids’ splash play area) commenced in April 2025
and works have progressed significantly.
During October, concrete pours were completed for the second stage of the mushroom pool, the splashpad structure, and the plinths within the plantroom area. Earthworks surrounding the splash pad and mushroom pool have progressed, which are required to facilitate the final concrete pours needed to integrate the new features with the existing environment.
The new balance tank has now been installed on site, and connection works are underway.
The final Ausgrid connection for the new main electrical switchboard has been completed, and the board has been energised.
Coordination is underway to enable the installation of pool toys that were previously delivered to site.
Recent wet weather has impacted the construction program, and Stage 1 is now anticipated to reach completion in early Summer 2026, subject to weather conditions. Council and the contractor continue to meet regularly to identify opportunities to bring the completion date forward.
Stage 2 (construction of new heated 8-lane 50m pool and a heated 25m pool) is in the design and procurement phase, with the select tender process now closed and evaluation underway. It is planned to report the tender to the February 2026 Council meeting.
Stage 2 construction is scheduled to commence in May 2026 and be completed 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.
Linsday Taylor Lawyers have been engaged as the probity consultant for the RFT process.
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.
During October, concrete pours were completed for the second stage of the mushroom pool, the splashpad structure, and the plinths within the plantroom area. Earthworks surrounding the splash pad and mushroom pool have progressed, which are required to facilitate the final concrete pours needed to integrate the new features with the existing environment.
The new balance tank has now been installed on site, and connection works are underway.
The final Ausgrid connection for the new main electrical switchboard has been completed, and the board has been energised.
Coordination is underway to enable the installation of pool toys that were previously delivered to site.
Recent wet weather has impacted the construction program, and Stage 1 is now anticipated to reach completion in early Summer 2026, subject to weather conditions. Council and the contractor continue to meet regularly to identify opportunities to bring the completion date forward.
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 the select tender process now closed and evaluation underway. It is planned to report the tender to the February 2026 Council meeting.
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
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 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Leichhardt Wharf and Pontoon Update
Prepared By: Peter Shields - Director Engineering
|
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 5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The timber wharf at Leichhardt Park has reached the end of its service life and was closed to the public in 2022 for safety reasons. In September 2025 Council considered a report which summarised possible options to retain, modify and improve the foreshore facilities at this location. Following on from that report, investigations by Council officers into planning requirements and possible funding sources now provides further clarity on possible options and timing.
Preliminary heritage advice relating to the timber wharf confirms it is a State Heritage item. The advice suggests it is possible to consider an option to demolish the wharf and replace it with another foreshore facility, subject to all necessary approvals. Further assessment of funding suggests Council does not have adequate funding allocated to replace the wharf with a modern facility that retains current service levels and that meets access standards. A TfNSW grant funding program is expected to be available in 2026 that is aligned with proposed upgrade works for this facility.
Council has not yet sought input from the community about future preferences for the foreshore facilities at this location, or other similar facilities across the local government area. Several community members have made recent submissions about future plans for the closed foreshore facilities. Council officers propose to consult with the community on shortlisted options once further planning assessments are complete.
This report recommends that
Council receive and note the report on the basis that Council officers progress
design plans and associated environmental and planning assessments for the
shortlisted options. It is anticipated community consultation then
proceed in April 2026 relating to these options. A further report would
then be presented to Council in mid-2026 summarising the outcome of the
community consultation and would seek Councils endorsement to proceed with a
recommended option.
BACKGROUND
Over the past century there have been a succession of marine structures built on the western edge of Leichhardt Park which have served the needs of small vessels and recreational activities such as fishing. In 2008, Council completed the construction of a new pontoon alongside the existing timber wharf to improve accessibility and to launch small watercraft. The timber wharf has since reached the end of its service life and was closed to the public in 2022 for safety reasons.
Council received a petition in March 2025 from the community requesting that Council “carry out the necessary works to restore the functional use of Leichhardt Wharf while retaining its architectural contribution to the visual heritage of Iron Cove”. Other community members have made representations to Council seeking for the foreshore facilities to be upgraded to accommodate for larger boats.
At its meeting of 23 September 2025 Council received a status report which considered investigations into water depths in the surrounding bay, and that evaluated a series of possible options for future foreshore facilities located in Leichhardt Park. Council resolved (Item 28):
That Council receive a further update at the November 2025 Ordinary Council meeting.
This resolution was made on the basis that further investigations were necessary to provide a clear plan on what works would be necessary, the associated planning approvals, works timing, project funding and community consultation arrangements.
DISCUSSION
Scope of Work Options
The status report presented to Council in September 2025 evaluated a series of options for works to the foreshore facilities at Leichhardt Park, noting each option resulted in different outcomes being achieved.
It is not possible to progress with one specific scope at this time given detailed planning assessments and community consultation are yet to be undertaken. On this basis it is proposed that several options which meet the following criteria are taken forward for further consideration:
· The existing service levels of the facilities are retained, including:
o capable of accommodating 2 off 12 metre long vessels at the same time
o dedicated space for small watercraft launch
o capable of supporting fishing & people accessing the shoreline.
o minimum 1.5m wide gangway
o robust fenders /piles/ poles to ensure boats can navigate to the facility in all weather conditions and tie up with out damage to the vessel
o the facilities accommodate for varying heights of boats above the waterline for access
o supporting facilities including existing lighting, potable water and parking.
· The works provide an upgrade in facilities, being:
o all facilities are accessible and inclusive for all members of the community
o the facilities are positioned in deep enough waters to cater for 12 metre long boats in any tide condition, noting these are the largest size boats that can operate in the neighbouring waterway.
Noting the above criteria, and the reported options presented to Council in September 2025, following is a summary of all options and whether they meet the criteria set for the facility:
|
Option |
Meets Existing Service Level |
Meets Upgrade Service Level |
Estimated Capital Cost |
Meets budgeted capital funds |
Meets budgeted operational funding |
|
|
1 |
Remove timber wharf, retain existing pontoon |
û |
û |
$150,000 |
ü |
ü |
|
2 |
Remove timber wharf, relocate pontoon in its place |
û |
û |
$350,000 |
ü |
ü |
|
3 |
Replace existing timber wharf, retain pontoon |
ü |
û |
$700,000 |
û |
ü |
|
4 |
Replace and extend existing timber wharf, retain pontoon |
ü |
û |
$900,000 |
û |
û |
|
5 |
Remove wharf and install 20m long robust pontoon, retain existing pontoon. |
ü |
ü |
$750,000 |
û |
ü |
|
6 |
Remove wharf and install 30m long robust pontoon, relocate existing pontoon elsewhere. |
ü |
ü |
$900,000 |
û |
ü |
|
|
Whilst there are many possible options, it is important that Council ensures any renewal is to a modern standard and adequately caters for contemporary requirements of accessibility. On this basis only options 5 & 6 provide for this. It is noted that both these options will require additional funding to be provisioned.
Planning Considerations
Preliminary planning advice confirms that Leichhardt Wharf is listed as a State Heritage item for the purposes of Chapter 6 of the SEPP Biodiversity & Conservation. The wharf is classified as Zone 5 – Water Recreation.
There are two State Environmental Planning Policies (SEPPs) that apply to the site, being Biodiversity & Conservation and Transport & Infrastructure. Both allow “development without consent” for demolition of the existing wharf and construction of a new foreshore facility.
Before obtaining any necessary approvals for proposed works to the wharf, specialist consultants will need to provide advice on the impacts of the demolition and any associated foreshore facility works. Once this is prepared, Council would then be in a position to consult with the community on the proposed works.
Key issues that need to be addressed in order to progress any option include:
· Detailed design
· Construction works methodology
· Environmental assessment of any significant work, including the environmental impact of the construction works
· Heritage assessment
· Community consultation
· NSW Maritime (Transport for NSW) approvals (including navigation assessment)
· Other agency approvals, including Fisheries NSW, Crown lands, etc.
· Update of Lease with Maritime
Community Consultation
Several community members have made recent submissions about the existing foreshore facilities. Council has not yet formally sought input from the community about future preferences for the foreshore facilities at this location. Council officers propose to consult with the community on shortlisted options once further planning assessments are complete.
The consultation will in this instance also seek to gain input on the community’s views about all foreshore facilities across the local government area, to ensure that any funding of future works aligns with community expectations for access to our waterways.
Community consultation would be open for a minimum of 28 days. The consultation will be promoted through social media, Councils website, on-site signage and a letter box drop to residents who live within a 5 minute walk to the Leichhardt wharf.
Timing
The following timing is proposed, taking forth both compliant options:
· December 2025 to April 2026 – Design development and Environmental assessment.
· April 2026 – Community Consultation
· June 2026 – Report to Council
· July 2026 to early 2027 – Apply for funding, resolve any necessary approvals, finalise design, procurement
· Mid 2027 – Works on site proceed (noting additional funding to be secured before works may proceed).
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
Council has budgeted capital funds totalling $376,300 to complete any works to the foreshore facilities at this location. Whilst this amount would be adequate for a lower cost option, these options do not meet accessibility requirements and match existing service levels. The recommended options in this report require additional funding to be secured.
Transport for NSW incorporates the NSW Maritime Infrastructure Delivery Office (MIDO) who is responsible for the development and delivery of maritime infrastructure across NSW. In recent years MIDO has administered the Boating Infrastructure for Communities Grants Program which aims to improve access to waterways for boaters of all abilities, particularly focusing on boaters with limited mobility. It aims to enhance the boating experience by upgrading infrastructure, such as pontoons, ensuring the safe and enjoyable use of NSW waterways for both recreational and commercial boating communities. This program also seeks to address environmental sustainability and safety improvements, with an emphasis on projects that align with local community needs.
The next round of funding under this program is anticipated to be open in 2026. Where this program proceeds with the next round of funding, Councils competing for these funds must have substantially progressed designs, approvals and community consultation. It is therefore important that Council takes forward recommended options as proposed, so it is best positioned for the forthcoming funding.
If Council is not successful with grant funding, it would need to consider self-funding the project.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Reconciliation Action Plan Evaluation and Redevelopment
Prepared 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 3: Creative communities and a strong economy |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Inner West Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) was adopted in 2022/23 for a two-year period. The existing plan concludes in 2025, and a further two-year plan will be developed in collaboration with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Local Democracy Group and the local Aboriginal community. At the suggestion of Reconciliation Australia, the next RAP would also be an innovate RAP to consolidate and extend initiatives delivered to date.
Key results include:
· The Aboriginal Community Hub in Camperdown Park will be developed, with opening now expected by mid-2027
· The Aboriginal Survival Memorial in Yeo Park was launched and dedicated to Reconciliation in March 2024. Heritage and construction approvals have been secured for the second Aboriginal Survival Memorial in Illoura Reserve, East Balmain and this is on track for completion in 2025
· A significant program of events marks both Reconciliation week (27 May to 3 June) and NAIDOC week (6 to13 July) in the Inner West, and this program grows each year
· The Anti-Racism Strategy is being implemented and a key initiative, the Anti-Racism Bystander Training, will commence in November 2025, and continue through early 2026, until 400 people have been trained.
· The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Procurement Strategy has driven a doubling in Council’s procurement from Aboriginal owned businesses.
A detailed evaluation of what has been achieved under the current Reconciliation Action Plan is attached, which has included engagement with Reconciliation Australia. The plan for engagement on developing the next plan is discussed in this report. Council maintains a significant network of collaborators and stakeholders in delivering Reconciliation Action Plan initiatives including particularly, the Australian Human Rights Commission, Reconciliation Australia, and the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 13 September 2022, Council resolved the following in part:
1. Council adopts the Reconciliation Action Plan.
2. Council receives quarterly
progress reports of progress toward establishing the
community hub; and
At the Council meeting held on 5 March 2024, Council resolved the following in part:
1. That Council adopt the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Procurement Strategy, with the addition of a note stating that Council will review the Strategy after one year with the view of assessing council’s progress in meeting the proposed target for procurement from Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Suppliers or products and seeking to at least double the target each year in the next five years.
At the Council meeting held on 23 September 2025, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council receive and note the report.
2. That Council officers engage with Reconciliation Australia to produce a report back to Council, no later than November 2025, a full evaluation of Council’s progress towards the actions and deliverables identified in our Reconciliation Action Plan and publish the Traffic Light spreadsheet.
3. That Council officers report back to Council no later than November 2025 with a plan for community engagement and collaboration with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee and Reconciliation Australia to identify any new needs for inclusion and recommendations to refresh the Reconciliation Action Plan for 2025-2027.
In collaboration with Reconciliation Australia, Council prepared and adopted an Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan in September 2022 which concluded in June 2025. Council officers have discussed this RAP evaluation with Reconciliation Australia, and they advise that a second Innovate RAP is appropriate for organisations with a strong relationship with their Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders; that are continuing to implement strategies, initiatives and policies that support reconciliation; and deliver additional actions tailored to their organisation. Reconciliation Australia considers Inner West Council to be a Reconciliation leader in local government for its RAP work.
Reconciliation Australia note deep results in major areas which are likely to continue into the future, including for example delivery and operation of the Aboriginal Community Hub, delivery of the final two Survival Memorials and their adoption and use for reconciliation conversations by residents, and delivery of the Anti-Racism Strategy, including particularly the Bystander Anti-Racism Training. The advice of Reconciliation Australia is to maintain and deepen further the focus in those areas, which will position a second Innovate RAP well, to be succeeded by a Stretch RAP.
Reconciliation Australia advises that Council has met the expectations outlined in their guidance on RAPs including developing mutually beneficial relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders, develop and pilot strategies for reconciliation initiatives, engage staff in reconciliation, identify the best approach for the organisation through aspirational deliverables, and driving reconciliation through its business, activities, services, programs, stakeholders and spheres of influence.
The existing RAP concluded in June 2025 and will be redeveloped for a further two-year period from May 2026 in collaboration with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Local Democracy Group.
On 5 March 2024, Council adopted the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Procurement Strategy. Since the adoption of the Strategy, there has been an increase in contracts awarded to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses from 0.25% in financial year 2022/23 to 0.50% in financial year 2024 and maintained at 0.50% in the 2024/25 financial year.
Engagement initiatives, such as the Connect with the Buyer Day, have been instrumental in bridging the gap between Council officers and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander business owners and suppliers. Council is a member of both Supply Nation and the NSW Indigenous Business Chamber of Commerce.
DISCUSSION
An evaluation of existing RAP achievements
The Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan contains four key themes, prescribed by Reconciliation Australia: relationships; respect; opportunities; and governance, reporting and assessing. An evaluation of the current achievements and implementation status of each action of the existing RAP is attached. Significant progress has been made on major commitments, and a small minority of other initiatives will continue into the next RAP.
Council achievements under the RAP include:
· Maintenance of beneficial relationships with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Local Democracy Group, local Aboriginal community, and the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council which has delivered engagement on significant policies, strategies, plans, infrastructure development, and cultural development
· Council invested significant time and financial resources in building awareness and education on the Uluru Statement from the Heart and the Referendum on the Voice to Parliament. Council also created a new place for reflection and discussion of Reconciliation, the first Aboriginal Survival Memorial was launched and dedicated to Reconciliation in March 2024, seven months before the referendum on the Voice to Parliament. This work contributed to the highest yes vote in NSW at 74.6%.
· Council endorsed 24A Australia Street, Camperdown as the preferred site for the proposed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Hub, with construction scheduled for completion by mid-2027
· Expanded relationship with Gadigal Information Service and Koori Radio, including providing $30,000 in annual financial assistance for the Yabun celebration
· 14 public art works commissioned worth more than $700,000, including two Aboriginal Survival Memorials and a major commission for the GreenWay
· A doubling of purchasing from Aboriginal owned businesses following adoption of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Procurement Strategy, with more to be done
· The Anti-Racism Strategy was developed with the engagement of the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council, endorsed by Council in December 2024, and implementation of its actions has commenced
· Council’s Workforce Management Strategy 2025-2029 is driving improved employment opportunities for Aboriginal staff including targeted traineeships for Aboriginal people and an Aboriginal staff network
· Council’s 2024 Indigenous Historical and Cultural Heritage study identified all known sites of cultural significance; social, archaeological, and historic in the Inner West. This establishes a baseline of knowledge in collaboration with the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council which has been used to create a GIS mapping layer of current sites of significance for use internally by Council’s planners and heritage teams.
· Cultural protocols are in use and are subject to review and improvement every two years. These inform Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country protocols.
· National Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC week are marked with significant local events and celebration, in the case of NAIDOC, including a reinvigoration of the annual Pauline Mcleod Awards.
· Council’s annual grants to Aboriginal people and organisations have increased from $15,000 in 2023, to $40,000 in 2024, to $65,000 in 2025.
Redevelopment of Council’s Reconciliation Action Plan
Discussion with Reconciliation Australia supports continuing for a further two year period with an Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan, to both conclude what has been commenced, and to address any new needs that have emerged. Reconciliation Australia advise that Council might continue with existing commitments allowing development of a deeper understanding of Council’s sphere of influence and establishing more leading practice approaches to advancing reconciliation, including particularly the Anti-Racism Strategy. This will allow continued focusing on strengthening relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people through piloting new methods and strategies for reconciliation.
The proposed timing and steps in the redevelopment process are as follows:
|
Evaluation of existing Reconciliation Action Plan presented to Council for consideration, along with redevelopment plan |
18 November 2025 |
|
Engagement on design of the Aboriginal Community Hub, with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Local Democracy Group and the local Aboriginal community |
15 November 2025 |
|
Engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Local Democracy Group on evaluation of the existing RAP, and engagement on the next RAP, including key stakeholders |
25 November 2025 |
|
Forum with local Aboriginal organisations to discuss RAP evaluation and begin engagement on new RAP |
December 2025 |
|
Community engagement on new RAP |
December 2025 to March 2026 |
|
Draft RAP to Council for exhibition approval |
April 2026 |
|
Exhibition of draft RAP |
April and May 2026 |
|
Adoption of new RAP by Council |
June 2026 |
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report. All current RAP initiatives are being met within existing budgets. New initiatives will be costed as part of developing the next RAP.
|
1.⇩ |
Reconciliation Action Plan Evaluation (Traffic Light Report) |
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Youth Voice Summit
Prepared 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
Council is preparing for the Youth Voice Summit that will be held on 24 April 2026 during Youth Week. The Summit will be a key engagement initiative that will provide a platform for young leaders and local young citizens to foster connections with elected representatives and inform Council’s Child and Youth Strategy.
Extensive engagement has already occurred including a youth focused survey, focus groups, consultations and collaboration with the Young Leaders Local Democracy Group. The insights gained from these, further planned consultations along with outcomes from the Summit, will shape Council’s approach to service delivery and engagement with children and young people. The Summit will also provide an opportunity for young people to provide feedback on potential initiatives for the Child and Youth Strategy.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 19 August 2025, Council resolved the following:
1. To hold a Youth Voice Summit as part of the development of the Children and Youth Strategy, involving young people from across the Inner West and organisations that service youth.
2. That Council hold the Youth Voice Summit in the 2025-2026 financial year, with costs funded through the existing Communities Budget.
3. That Council involve the Young Leaders local democracy group and other young people in the development of the program.
4. That Council include as a key outcome of the Youth Voice Summit a communique that captures the discussion, outcomes and aspirations of participants and which specifically addresses opportunities for Council to improve engagement with and services for young people.
5. That Council report back to Council in November 2025 with a timeline, program of events, and other information, regarding the planned Youth Voice Summit, as well as further details on the Child and Youth Strategy.
6. That Council consider including the following elements in the Summit:
a) A survey or other engagement prior to the event capturing young people’s views of the Inner West, and specifically on service provision from Inner West Council and ways to meaningfully engage and serve young people;
b) A stakeholder roundtable, including service representatives and young clients from organisations servicing and supporting young people across the local government area;
c) Additional engagement with organisations and young people fom marginalised communities, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, LGBTIQA+, disability and culturally and linguistically diverse communities;
d) A plenary session featuring young leaders from the Inner West focused on youth engagement and empowerment;
e) A listening, learning and engagement session for student leaders and representatives from local primary and secondary schools, and youth representatives from other local organisations with Federal, State, and Local elected representatives; and
f) Other engagements, activities and events as determined by staff.
DISCUSSION
Staff are progressing preparations and consultations for the Youth Voice Summit that will be held on 24 April 2026 as specified in the Council resolutions of 19 August 2025. Preparations include identifying potential external facilitators to MC and guide the event. Two potential venues are currently under consideration and these include:
· Marrickville High School
· Ashfield Town Hall
Discussions with Schools
Current discussions with local schools indicate their preference for Student Representative Council members, particularly if the event is held at the Town Hall. This will support structured engagement but may limit participation to those who the schools select to attend.
Staff are continuing to work on achieving a balanced summit that includes both young leaders and other young people who may not usually participate in public forums. Further liaison with schools, services and young people will occur before a venue is confirmed.
Youth Survey
In 2024, Council conducted the Inner West Youth Survey with over 350 young people who live, work or study in the Inner West. This was part of the initial research for the development of Child and Youth Strategy. In addition, four separate focus groups were held as part of this research. Council also worked with Marrickville Police Citizens Youth Club and Tempe High School to consult with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people.
The survey, consultation and focus group participants were asked to comment on:
· what council services and community issues they were enthusiastic about
· what changes they would like to see in their local community
· how Council can assist in facilitating these changes
· identify how Council can better communicate with young people.
The key themes that young people identified were friends, family, creative arts, food and youth orientated venues. These themes were consistent across all the research activities. The feedback from young people highlighted:
· Their key values were identified as social cohesion and local pride combined with a strong passion for community connection, followed by interest in sport, parks and environmental wellbeing.
· A strong advocacy for recreation and environmental improvements including, better public spaces, safety, vacant space activation and improved infrastructure.
· The need for enhancement of public domains, parks, and events with a strong emphasis on environmental action.
· The need for Council to improve the involvement of children and young people when developing, designing and delivering services.
· A need for more accessible and inclusive Council communication that includes ongoing consultation and social media engagement that is complemented with school visits and participatory activities e.g. creative competitions.
Young Leaders Local Democracy Group
The Young Leaders Local Democracy group were briefed on the Youth Voice Summit and the research outcomes and consultations at their meeting of 25 August 2025. They supported the issues that were identified from the consultations and research.
The Young Leaders proposed the summit be a safe and inclusive space to build trust and honest feedback so that the voices of young people are clearly reflected in the initiatives of the Child and Youth Strategy. To help achieve this, the Young Leaders advised that the summit should:
· start with a clear outline of Council’s current youth services
· include fun and safe spaces for expression
· use moderated suggestion boxes and voting platforms.
Other Targeted Consultations
Staff are planning further targeted consultations from November 2025 to February 2026. These consultations will be with marginalised groups and other key stakeholders to deepen our understanding of the lived experiences of these young people. During Youth Week, staff will hold separate focus group activities with services such as Twenty10, Midjubiri Youth Resource Centre, KinHub, other services that support culturally and linguistically diverse young people and a disability service working with young people.
A roundtable discussion with local youth-focused service providers is also being planned. The broad-based Inner West Youth Alliance Interagency, that Council convenes, will be consulted to assist staff to identify other relevant services to ensure the broadest possible representation at the summit.
Next Steps
Preparations between November 2025 to February 2026, will include targeted consultations, finalising the venue, confirmation of the program structure and collaboration with a range of youth organisations to ensure the broadest representations and consultations for the Summit and Youth Strategy development.
These preliminary consultations and discussions indicate that the summit will feature:
· a plenary session with young leaders
· roundtable with youth service providers
· engagement with marginalised youth communities
· distribution of a post-event communique.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
The Summit will be delivered within the adopted Community Directorate budget for 2025/26. Resources are in place to support planning and implementation.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Mandatory Reporting to Council of Reports Received from Fire & Rescue NSW - 123A Smith Street Summer Hill
Prepared By: Simone Plummer - Director Planning
|
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
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. A report has been received from FRNSW on 28 October 2025 (Attachment 1) for 123A Smith Street Summer Hill. This is for a 2-storey (terrace) building.
Council has conducted a joint inspection with F&RNSW and is issuing statutory notices to address fire safety concerns.
BACKGROUND
In response to a request from FRNSW, Council and FRNSW undertook a joint inspection on 24 October 2025. Council has now received an inspection report (Attachment 1) from FRNSW.
The joint inspection revealed that a single dwelling residence (Class 1) has been illegally converted to a residential multi occupancy which is best described as a Class 3 building. This circumnavigates the planning process, and amongst other amenity deficiencies the building is also deficient in fire safety measures to protect the occupants in the event of a fire or other emergency.
NSW building regulations classify all buildings. A Class 1a building is a single dwelling such as a detached house; or one of a group of attached dwellings being a town house, row house or the like. Buildings providing long term or transient accommodation for a number of unrelated people are Class 3. Examples include a boarding house, guest house or hostel. Fire safety measures differ according to the building classification.
DISCUSSION
During the site inspection it was identified that substantial unauthorised works had been carried out, including the erection of timber frame partition (internal) walls which have been lined with compressed fibre sheeting which has increased the number of bedrooms from 6 to 12.
This intensification of the number of habitable rooms presents a serious risk to occupant safety as the fire safety measures currently installed within the premises do not meet the requirements of the National Construction Code for its current use and require a significant upgrade to ensure an adequate provision of fire safety within the premises.
Consideration has been given to the impact this enforcement action may have on the current occupants and six months has been provided for residents to source alternative accommodation and / or the owner to seek advice regarding the change in use and works. The planning process would then provide consideration to ensuring the adequate fire safety measures are incorporated into the building. In the meantime – on 30 October 2025, Council urgently issued a staged Notice of Proposed Order requiring the following:
1. Remove all lockable latches from the outside of all bedroom doors.
Reason: to facilitate access in the event of an emergency. Seven (7) days has been provided from the date of the Order.
2. The installation of additional smoke detection and alarms.
Reason: to facilitate early warning to occupants in the event of a fire. Seven (7) days has been provided from the date of the Order.
3. Cease the use of the building for multi occupancy and remove the unauthorised works. Reason: The building is not fit for purpose for a Class 3 building. Six (6) months has been provided to facilitate alternative accommodation or allow the owner the option to seek a lawful approval which facilitates building Compliance.
A subsequent inspection a few days later confirmed that the measures required at points 1 and 2 above have been satisfactorily implemented and a regime of regular inspections by council officers will ensure these measures remain in place until point 3 has been finalised.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
|
1.⇩ |
Fire & Rescue NSW Inspection Report - 123A Smith Street Summer Hill |
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: 2024-2025 Pecuniary Interest Returns and Updated Return
Prepared 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
The purpose of this report is to table the 2024-2025 Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest Returns lodged by members of Council’s Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee (ARIC) and updated Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest Return lodged by Councillor Scott.
BACKGROUND
The Local Government Act 1993 requires Council’s Code of Conduct (Code) to include provisions for disclosure of pecuniary interests by Councillors, nominated staff members, and other persons identified as Designated Persons under the Code. Members of Council’s ARIC are Designated Persons under the Code.
Clause 4.21 of the Code of Conduct requires Councillors and Designated Persons to complete a Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest Return (Return) within 3 months after becoming a Councillor or Designated Person, and also complete a Return within 3 months after 30 June each year. Councillors and Designated Persons 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
Returns have been submitted by Council’s ARIC members in accordance with the requirements of the Code. 2024-2025 Annual Returns have been received for ARIC members Ms Ilona Meyer, Mr Chris Davies, and Ms Belinda Lawn. We have also received a 2025-2026 first Return for new ARIC member Ms Helen Hu. Councillor Scott has also submitted an updated Return since her last Return was lodged. Each of these Returns are attached.
The disclosures in the Returns operate as a key transparency mechanism for promoting community confidence in Council decision making. 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 proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
|
1.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Belinda Lawn |
|
2.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Chris Davies |
|
3.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 24-25 Ilona Meyer |
|
4.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests First Return 25-26 Helen Hu |
|
5.⇩ |
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests 25-26 Clr Philippa Scott |
|
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Waterloo Street Rozelle
From: Councillor Ismet Tastan
|
MOTION
1. That Council notes that residents of Waterloo Street, Rozelle, and surrounding streets have been dealing with significant impacts from state infrastructure projects like Westconnex for many years.
2. That Council notes that the Rozelle Village development has begun, which will bring significant additional truck movements to Waterloo Street until at least February 2028.
3. That Council pursues all options for traffic and construction management to minimise traffic along Waterloo St and the impact on residents throughout the project including a review of the traffic management plan now that the site is operational.
4. That Council ensure compliance and that workers and contractors are not using Waterloo St or surrounding streets for parking.
5. That Council writes to Transport for NSW to advocate for: a) Extended DA hours for the Victoria Road access beyond the current 10am-3pm restriction to enable reduced truck movements on Waterloo Street. b) Further consideration of the use of the Victoria Road footpath to better enable access to the site from Victoria Road and reduce truck movements on Waterloo Street. c) Exploration of other options which will enable medium and heavy vehicles such as concrete trucks to access the site via Victoria Road for extended hours beyond 10am – 3pm.
|
Background
Work has begun to build Rozelle Village (formerly the Wests Tigers site).
The developer has provided a Construction Traffic Management Plan which is now in place resulting in an additional 30 concrete trucks, plus about 15 other large trucks will now be using Waterloo Street to access the construction site per day.
This is going to be going on for over 2 years, and will mean the loss of 4-5 parking spaces, diesel concrete trucks pouring out fumes all day while the concrete drums are turning as they sit there, 45 extra heavy vehicle movements per day (on concrete pour days) and big inconvenience to the locals.
In speaking with the contractor/residents there are alternative options that may involve:
1. Extend hours to access the site from Victoria Road (beyond the current 10am-3pm timeslot).
2. Use the footpath for a truck parking area on Victoria Road.
3. Other measures deemed appropriate to improve the outcomes for residents.
Transport for NSW have only granted access to the Victoria Road entrance between 10am – 3pm (outside peak) because they are worried about peak hour traffic and the impact on buses.
They also pushed back on a proposal to use the footpath for a truck parking area on Victoria Road (that might enable longer hours) because of safety concerns. The curb side would need to be rounded to allow access and TfNSW are concerned that cars or buses on Victoria Rd may mount the pavement outside construction hours.
Residents have also asked for an update to the control plan now that the site is operational and the impact better understood. Currently the control plan states (item1.5.2) “10 neighbours are in support of the proposed arrangements”. Several of those neighbors have indicated they were not informed of the number of truck movements that would occur on Waterloo St.
In signing they believed it was an acknowledgement that they had been consulted, not that they necessarily supported the proposed arrangements.
In potentially reviewing the plan – there are a range of items that have been tabled as potential options by residents and the contractor.
These include:
a) Limit Truck movements on Waterloo St to Monday-Friday.
b) Limit deliveries to at least between 8am and 4pm (excludes trucks on por days which may need to deliver outside regular hours).
c) Maximise truck deliveries to Victoria Rd. Once the capping beam is complete on the Victoria Rd side - construct roll kerb and concrete hard stand so that deliveries other than concrete pours can be loaded/unloaded on Victoria Rd.
d) Commit to managing the smooth flow of concrete trucks during pour days. Control plan indicates up 30 trucks per day, over the period of Phase 1 and 2 (total of 27 months).
e) Put a plan in place to mitigate the damage to Waterloo St surface by concrete trucks weighing up to 30 tonnes.
f) Not allow any parking on Waterloo St other than the allocated construction zone. This includes prevention of the ramping of delivery vehicles in Waterloo and surrounding residential streets.
g) Developing a solution/plan to mitigate the potential of diesel pollution and noise from idling concrete trucks and pumping on pour days (of which the plan is current approx 1 per week). Beyond residents this is also concerning as Little Zac’s Early Child Care Centre’s outside playground is less than 20 metres from where the trucks stand whilst pumping the concrete.
h) Ensure two way traffic flow is maintained.
i) With a focus on public safety impacts to traffic flows on the Victoria Rd, Moodie, Waterloo and Darling streets.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Sustainable procurement for major projects
From: Councillor Mat Howard
|
MOTION
1. That Council commends the ongoing work of the Council to ensure its procurement processes are aligned with its commitment to sustainability.
2. That Council notes Council’s ongoing commitment to circular economy principles—i.e., designing out waste, keeping materials in use, and drawing on local reuse, repaired, and recycled materials supply chains; and the success of our Circular Economy Roundtable early in 2026.
3. That Council resolves to undertake a review of council’s maintenance, construction and other related procurement strategies with a view to increasing the use of recycled and up-cycled construction materials from local providers (including but not limited to paint, timber and textiles) in major council projects and to report back to Council on or before June 2027, with an interim report in June 2026.
4. That Council request staff, to help inform the June 2027 report, conducts a trial with reputable local organisations working in the not-for-profit circular economy sector to incorporate each of the following in a sizeable council project in the 2026-2027 financial year: (a) paint; (b) timber and other construction materials; (c) textiles, fabrics or furnishings; and that any costs associated with this trial be sourced from existing major projects budgets or as part of the 2026-2027 budget process.
5. That Council ask staff to include as part of the Interim June 2026 report: a) Detail on actions council is currently undertaking to incorporate circular economy products and principles in major projects, maintenance or construction projects; b) Information on community and industry engagement; c) Data or research associated with incorporating circular economy principles in local government projects; and d) Further information on a proposed trial as described in (4).
6. That this project be reported to the Environment Local Democracy Group for feedback.
|
Background
Inner West Council has a strong record of embedding sustainability and circular economy principles into its operations. Through initiatives such as the Zero Waste Strategy 2021–2036 and the Inner West Circular Economy Network, Council has committed to reducing waste, reusing materials, and supporting local repair and reuse industries.
The circular economy is about designing out waste, keeping materials in use for as long as possible, and regenerating natural systems. Councils can play a major role in building this system by using their purchasing power to create demand for recycled and upcycled products.
Construction and demolition activities are responsible for almost half of Australia’s total waste — around 27 million tonnes a year. By increasing the use of recycled materials in Council projects such as roads, building maintenance and parks, we can cut waste, lower emissions, and support local green jobs.
Council already uses recycled and reclaimed materials in some projects — such as crushed glass in road base and reused timber and sandstone — and partners with many local circular economy organisations including Reverse Garbage, Circle Paints, Among the Trees, The Bower and local repair cafes.
This motion seeks to take the next step by reviewing Council’s procurement strategies to expand the use of locally sourced recycled and upcycled materials — such as paint, timber, and textiles — wherever possible. This will help close the loop on waste, support local innovators, and ensure that our procurement practices reflect our community’s commitment to sustainability.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Sydney Steel Road pedestrian and cycling improvements
From: Councillor Mat Howard
|
MOTION
1. That Council notes that Sydney Steel Road and Shirlow Street form an important cycling and pedestrian connection linking Sydenham Station to residential and commercial centres to the north.
2. That Council acknowledges that the current state of the connection presents safety hazards and accessibility constraints for pedestrians and cyclists — including the absence of a continuous footpath on the western side of Sydney Steel Road - and that these problems are identified in council’s Pedestrian and Mobility Plan (PAMP).
3. That Council requests that Council staff review safety and accessibility along Sydney Steel Road, Shirlow Street and the pedestrian/cyclist pathway that connects them, and report back with potential improvements to the Local Traffic Forum on or before April 2026.
4. That Council consider improvements to pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure at this location as part of the 2026-2027 Budget process - or for advancement using Developer Contribution Funds - with potential sources included in the report to the Local Transport Forum.
|
Background
Sydney Steel Road is a key connection within Marrickville’s transport network, linking Sydenham Road, Sydenham Station, Marrickville Metro and the northern parts of Marrickville, St Peters and Enmore. The corridor sits within a mix of industrial, commercial and residential land uses, and functions as an informal but well-used walking and cycling link between major destinations. Its location makes it an essential part of the local active-transport network, particularly for people moving between the station precinct and surrounding neighbourhoods.
Despite its importance, the route has long-standing safety and accessibility issues. Footpaths along Sydney Steel Road are narrow, uneven or missing entirely on the western side, forcing pedestrians to walk on the roadway or through angled parking areas. The pathway connecting Sydney Steel Road and Shirlow Street is similarly constrained and can be difficult to navigate, especially for families, older residents and people with disability.
The surrounding industrial environment also brings frequent heavy-vehicle movements, adding to safety concerns for cyclists and pedestrians.
These issues have been recognised in previous Council planning and policy documents, including pedestrian access, mobility and development control plans that identify this corridor as needing improvement.
Over several years, community members and active-transport users have raised concerns about the poor pedestrian environment and the limited safe cycling access around Sydney Steel Road and its connecting pathways.
With Sydenham Station’s significance as a regional transport hub and continued growth around Marrickville Metro and the surrounding neighbourhoods, improving this connection is timely and necessary. A review of safety and accessibility along Sydney Steel Road, Shirlow Street and the connecting pathway will enable Council to identify practical and staged improvements that support walking, cycling and local amenity.



Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Sydenham Station Mural
From: Councillor Mat Howard
|
MOTION
1. That Council note that Sydenham Station is a key multimodal transport hub and one of the major gateways to the Inner West, connecting train, metro, bus, cycling and pedestrian networks, and serving as an important arrival point for residents, workers and visitors.
2. That Council acknowledge the significant upgrades delivered through the Sydney Metro City & Southwest project, which have improved accessibility, safety and connectivity at Sydenham Station.
3. That Council recognise the opportunity to enhance Sydenham Station’s role as a gateway to the Inner West through public art that reflects the area’s creativity, diversity and community spirit.
4. That Council request that Council officers seek funding and partnership opportunities with Transport for NSW, Sydney Trains, Sydney Metro or other relevant state agencies to deliver a mural (or series of murals) on either side of Sydenham Station.
5. That Council receive a report via Councillor Briefing Note by March 2026 outlining: a) outcomes of any funding and partnership discussions; b) feasible locations for mural installation; and c) potential inclusion in Council’s Perfect Match Program, in relation to Resolution C1025(1) Clause 7 (Sydenham Road Strategy) agreed at the 28 October 2025 Council meeting.
|
Background
Sydenham Station is one of the Inner West’s most important transport gateways, connecting multiple train lines, future Metro services, bus routes and active transport corridors linking Marrickville, Tempe and St Peters. It serves as both a local hub and a first impression of the Inner West for thousands of daily commuters and visitors.
Following major accessibility and capacity upgrades under the Sydney Metro City & Southwest project, the precinct around Sydenham Station now offers renewed potential for creative placemaking and visual improvement.
Council has an opportunity to build on this investment by collaborating with state transport agencies to deliver a landmark mural project that celebrates the Inner West’s unique identity and creative culture.
Public art has proven benefits in improving local amenity, fostering civic pride, and supporting artists—values strongly aligned with the Inner West Council’s Community Strategic Plan and Public Art Framework.
It is therefore proposed that Council proactively seek funding and other support from Transport for NSW, Sydney Trains and Sydney Metro to deliver a mural (or murals) at Sydenham Station, ensuring the project complements existing transport infrastructure and contributes to the precinct’s visual appeal.

Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Road Safety on Richardson’s Crescent, Marrickville
From: Councillor Mat Howard
|
MOTION
1. That Council acknowledge resident concerns about near misses and road safety at the raised pedestrian crossing on Richardson’s Crescent, Marrickville, as well as about the safety and efficiency of the Richardson’s Crescent Roundabout.
2. That Council note that the crossing is regularly used by students at Tempe High School, parents, children and players utilising Mackey Park, and by residents accessing the Cooks River and Tempe Station.
3. That Council note that the Richardson’s Crescent Roundabout is often congested during peak traffic periods and contributes to road safety concerns.
4. That Council undertake a review of pedestrian and traffic safety along Richardson’s Crescent—including the pedestrian crossing and roundabout—and report findings to the Local Traffic Forum as soon as practicable.
|
Background
Richardson’s Crescent is a highly utilised road link for Marrickville and Tempe residents, as well as residents from Earlwood.
The raised pedestrian crossing on Richardson’s Crescent, Marrickville, provides a vital link between local homes, Tempe High School, Mackey Park, the Cooks River parklands, and Tempe Station. It is used daily by students, families, and recreational visitors accessing these key community destinations on foot.
The crossing has been upgraded several times over the past decade to improve pedestrian visibility and slow vehicle speeds.
However, its proximity to the busy roundabout on Richardson’s Crescent means it is subject to both complex traffic movements and limited sightlines for both drivers and pedestrians.
Residents have raised repeated concerns about near misses, congestion and safety risks, particularly during school drop-off and weekend sporting hours.
Residents have also raised concerns about congestion at the Roundabout on Richardson’s Crescent during peak traffic periods.
A review of pedestrian and traffic safety along this section of Richardson’s Crescent will help ensure the current design meets contemporary safety standards and community expectations.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Camperdown Park – Shaded Seating
From: Councillor Vicki Clay and Deputy Mayor, Councillor Chloe Smith
|
MOTION
That Council install two additional seating options in Camperdown Park, on the Australia Street side, in shaded locations, to ensure no loss of facilities as a result of the development of the Inclusive Playground.
|
Background
To date, there have been multiple consultation sessions with the local community of Camperdown Park, to develop the concept plan to upgrade to an inclusive playground, taking into consideration the feedback and expectations from the community.
The team who worked on this project have developed a well-received draft plan and can be commended on the design concept.
Having attended all the consultation sessions, I noted that a consistent concern raised was that the extension of fencing for the playground to include the existing space edging Australia Street, would impact the community members’ facility to sit in a shaded spot while their dogs played off-leash.
To alleviate community concerns and ensure there is no loss of facilities, it is recommended that two seating options be added to the Australia Street side of the park, positioned in shaded locations, as indicated by the enclosed photograph.
Photograph of Australia Street side – shaded trees

Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Callan Park/Balmain Road Cycleway
From: Councillor Kerrie Fergusson
|
MOTION
1. That Council as part of the Callan Park Plan of Management submission, expressed its support for a proposed Balmain Road Cycleway to run inside Callan Park, parallel to Balmain Road.
2. That Council convene a meeting with Greater Sydney Parklands (GSP), Bike Leichhardt, and the Leichhardt Saints Football Club to discuss the inclusion of the Balmain Road Cycleway in the GSP Draft Access, Movement and Parking Strategy, or for consideration in future Active Transport links within Callan Park.
3. That Council provide a report back to Council at the March 2026 meeting.
|
Background
A bike route inside Callan Park running parallel to Balmain Road, connecting Leichhardt and Rozelle would provide an integral Active Transport link along a notoriously busy and unsafe stretch of road. The proposed Bicycle Boulevard would provide approximately 800 m of separated path between Wharf Road and Cecily Street Main Gate.
The Balmain Rd Cycleway was included in the Inner West Council Bicycle Strategy and supported as part of the Inner West Council’s submission to the Callan Park draft Plan of Management, however it has not been included in the Greater Sydney Parkland’s Callan Park draft Access, Movement and Parking Strategy.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Inner West Halloween
From: Councillor Kerrie Fergusson
|
MOTION
That Council provides a report from the Director of Engineering to the March 2026 meeting on ways Council can support Halloween celebrations across the Inner West in 2026, including: a) Keeping local streets safe by providing electronic speed signs across the LGA displaying the message “Slow down – it’s Trick or Treat!”; b) Creating an online “Inner West Halloween Guide” featuring Trick or Treat maps and community event listings; and c) Assisting community led street parties by providing advice on street closures, barrier collection, public liability insurance, and waste management.
|
Background
Halloween is now a staple on the Inner West calendar. Our local streets come alive as trick-or-treaters hit the pavement in search of sweets. The 31st of October has become a night of celebration, fun, and community connection, and the Inner West Council can support this by helping ensure streets are safe, accessible, and welcoming for all.
Council can also enhance the experience by providing an online Inner West Halloween Guide, featuring Trick or Treat maps and local event listings, helping families explore the neighbourhood and discover community activities. By supporting Halloween, Council not only protects the safety of residents but also fosters the sense of shared community spirit that make the Inner West such a vibrant place to live.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: 2026 Integrated Transport Strategy Consultation
From: Councillor Kerrie Fergusson
|
MOTION
1. That as part of the development of the 2026 Integrated Transport Strategy, in addition to working with the Bicycle Local Democracy Group, engages with two local representatives from each of the following organisations to consult on the Active Transport components of the plan; a) Sustainable Transport Group; b) Inner West Bicycle Coalition; c) Leichhardt Bicycle User Group; d) Ashfield Bicycle User Group; and e) Bike Marrickville.
2. That Council meet with the above group on two separate occasions during the development of the plan, and once during the community consultation phase.
|
Background
In May 2025, in response to projected increases in local density, Council convened a Mode Shift Forum with local stakeholders to share ideas and expertise on advancing mode shift across the Inner West. Many of the insights and proposals from the forum will be incorporated into the updated Integrated Transport Strategy (ITS) in 2026.
The ITS is a key strategic document that will guide the future of transport in the Inner West, shaping how people move safely, sustainably, and efficiently through our community. As Council delivers much-needed housing across the Inner West, the design of our streets and the way people move around them has never been more critical, increasing the importance of the ITS.
This motion proposes an additional step: consulting members of local Bicycle User Groups who participated in the Mode Shift Forum, alongside the Bicycle Local Democracy Group, to provide input into the development of the Integrated Transport Strategy.
This collaborative approach will strengthen the quality of the final plan, build public trust, and ensure that proposed walking and cycling connections meet the real needs of residents, commuters, and families across the Inner West.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: GreenWay Bush Care and Signage
From: Councillor Kerrie Fergusson
|
MOTION
1. That Council notes that the GreenWay is near completion.
2. That Council requests that, prior to the opening, a report be provided to the December 2026 Council meeting outlining: a) The responsible Council officer or team overseeing and coordinating the ongoing bush care and maintenance of the GreenWay; b) Confirm the recurrent budget category and funding for bush care maintenance; c) The installation of GreenWay-branded stickers on existing wayfinding signage, and inclusion of the GreenWay name on all future signs; and d) Details regarding the implementation and placement of public art along the GreenWay.
|
Background
The opening of the GreenWay represents a major milestone for the Inner West community, the culmination of more than two decades of planning, advocacy, and collaboration between Council, the NSW Government, and the local community.
A special acknowledgement is due to the many local volunteers and community activists whose dedication and advocacy were instrumental in bringing the GreenWay to life. In particular, Bruce Ashley has played a leading role in championing this project, helping to guide its vision, engage the community, and ensure it meets the needs of residents.
At a cost of $55 million, the GreenWay is one of Sydney’s most significant active transport projects: a continuous, landscaped corridor linking Iron Cove to Cooks River, providing safe walking and cycling connections through the heart of the Inner West.
The GreenWay will serve as a green active transport “super highway”, connecting neighbourhoods, schools, parks, and public transport hubs while supporting biodiversity and urban greening.
As this landmark project nears completion, it is essential that Council establish clear arrangements for its ongoing bush care and maintenance and that the way finding signage is clearly identifiable as the GreenWay, ensuring the GreenWay is well-maintained, clearly identified, and continues to reflect the community’s strong sense of local pride.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Trialling Parklets on Australia Street
From: Deputy Mayor, Councillor Chloe Smith and Councillor Vicki Clay
|
MOTION
1. That Council notes that parklets improve streetscape amenity, community safety, and are a cost-effective method of providing more public space in dense urban environments.
2. That Council notes positive feedback from businesses and residents on Australia Street, Newtown towards the parklet installed outside Tokyo Lamington, and preliminary interest in establishing more parklets in the southern precinct of the street.
3. That Council investigates opportunities for a trial installation of additional parklets on the southern end of Australia Street and engages with businesses and residents on timing and locations, including through doorknocking and letterboxing.
4. That Council receives a report to the February Meeting on opportunities to expand the installation of parklets across the LGA, including: a) Cost of installation and maintenance; and b) Proposals to work with businesses to expedite installation.
|
Background
A parklet is an extension of the footpath, usually into an existing parking space or no stopping bay, which provides more space and amenity for people using the street. Parklets provide places for people to sit, rest, meet, and eat and drink, and can also provide greenery, art or other visual amenity. They have also been found to improve community safety by providing places for people to use the street after dark. Many parklets already exist in the Inner West and across Sydney.
Inner West Council installed a parklet outside Tokyo Lamington on Australia Street to provide outdoor seating and meeting space, as well as a small community garden. While well-utilised by customers, the parklet is open to the whole community, and feedback from businesses and residents has been largely positive. A number of other businesses in the precinct have expressed interest in establishing more parklets to improve amenity, expand outdoor dining, and provide more community space.
Beyond Australia Street, there is an opportunity to investigate how Council can install more parklets across the LGA, including potentially partnering with businesses on the costs of installation or maintenance.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Bringing Mardi Gras to the Inner West
From: Councillor Jessica D'Arienzo and Deputy Mayor, Councillor Chloe Smith
|
MOTION
1. That Council notes Inner West Council’s ongoing proud commitment to initiatives and events that celebrate and support the LGBTQI+ community, including the Inner West Pride Centre, Trans and Gender Diverse Swim Nights, Feel the Love, Drag Story Time, the Mardi Gras Viewing Party, and next year’s opening of the Inner West Pride Walk.
2. That Council notes that Inner West Council has been approached by Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras (SGLMG) about the following opportunities to collaborate ahead of the 2026 festival: a) Hosting Sissy Ball, one of the flagship festival events, at Marrickville Town Hall; and b) Providing a community workshop space to construct SGLMG parade floats and costumes.
3. That Council partners with SGLMG to host Sissy Ball at Marrickville Town Hall in 2026 and works with organisers to identify additional in-kind and financial support that Council could provide, including promotion, production and event infrastructure, and talent costs, with funding sources to be identified in the next quarterly budget review.
4. That Council works with SGLMG to investigate Council-owned venues which could be suitable to host the SGLMG float construction workshop.
5. That Council seeks to negotiate recognition of Inner West Council as a leading sponsor, inclusion of inner west events on the Mardi Gras app and publications, and the inclusion of an Inner West Council float in the parade.
6. That Council commences discussions with SGLMG organisers about developing a longer term partnership to host events within the SGLMG festival program in the Inner West LGA for the 2026, 2027 and 2028 festival periods, noting 2028 is the 50 year celebration of SGLMG.
7. That Council receives a report back on the above, including costs, to the December Meeting.
|
Background
The Inner West is proud to be a hub for the LGBTQI+ community, many of whom call the Inner West home. This is reflected in the many initiatives supported by Inner West Council to provide safe, inclusive, and fun events and spaces for LGBTQI+ people.
The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras (SGLMG) is one of the biggest LGBTQI+ pride events in the world, attracting thousands of visitors from across Australia and internationally. Sissy Ball is an inclusive celebration of LGBTQIA+ culture, creativity, and community that aligns with Inner West Council's longstanding commitment to diversity, inclusion, and cultural vibrancy. It is SGLMG’s signature ballroom community event that was first presented as part of the 40 year celebrations in 2018. It has evolved into the most significant vogue balls in the Southern Hemisphere and has put Australia on the map in the Ball scene. It celebrates queer, trans and culturally diverse communities and has the youngest attendees of any SGLMG event.
The SGLMG has approached Inner West Council about partnering to host the 2026 Sissy Ball at Marrickville Town Hall. This is an unprecedented opportunity to bring a flagship Mardi Gras event to the Inner West and provide an opportunity for locals and visitors alike to celebrate LGBTQI+ pride at one of the Inner West’s premier historic community venues.
SGLMG organisers have also approached Council about providing a community workshop space to create and construct floats and costumes for the 2026 parade, to be in use from early January to mid-March. The space would need to be about 1000sqm in size and include access to toilets, water, and power.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Transformation of the former Wesley Mission Hospital to the Inner West Project
From: Councillor Jessica D'Arienzo
|
MOTION
1. That Council acknowledges TOGA’s submission to the Our Fairer Future Plan, commending Council’s proactive approach to address housing diversity, affordability, and equitable growth across the LGA and supports the alignment of Our Fairer Future Plan with TOGA’s strategic redevelopment of the Ashfield site as a mixed-use precinct, anchored by a state of the art mental health campus supported by residential dwellings to meet the evolving needs of the Inner West community.
2. That Council notes that following the closure of the Wesley Hospital Ashfield in April 2024, Inner West Council and the community called on Wesley Mission to repurpose the facility for community good rather than simply selling to the highest bidder.
3. That Council acknowledges the recent opening of the largest 'meanwhile use' housing initiative in the Southern Hemisphere at the Ashfield site, delivered in partnership with TOGA, Housing All Australians, Women’s Community Shelters (WCS), Jewish House, and FDC Building & Fitout.
4. That Council acknowledges this groundbreaking project provides over 100 beds, equalling over 36,500 safe nights for women, children, men and transgender people, alongside wraparound support services.
5. That Council notes the establishment of WCS’s Community Support Hub onsite, providing case management, legal clinics, life skills programs, and mental health support for women from the broader community.
6. That Council utilise Council’s communication channels to promote the Inner West Project’s call for volunteers and local community organisations to volunteer through a range of opportunities, including gardening/garden maintenance, odd household fix-it jobs, staffing the essential needs “shop”, running workshops or community activities in the hub (for mums, or for kids during school holidays), food provision including big batch cooking separated into single-serve containers to be frozen, or shelf-stable pantry items, or transporting donations to site.
7. That Council includes in the communication materials information for volunteer roles and opportunities, information on how community organisations can get involved and registration process and contact details to register as a volunteer with Women’s Community Shelters.
|
Background
The Ashfield site was gifted to Wesley Mission in 1946 by the Waddell family as a 25-bedroom mansion. With government funding, it opened as Wesley Hospital Ashfield in 1954, providing mental health and addiction services for 70 years with 38 beds.
Despite its vital community role, the former Wesley Mission hospital closed in early 2024 due to financial losses and low occupancy. Mayor Darcy Byrne, ward Councillors Mark Drury and Jess D’Arienzo together with the community advocated for the site to be repurposed for community benefit rather than sold to the highest bidder. (Media Release).
New owners of the site, TOGA Group, welcomed the opportunity to engage with the Inner West Council’s Our Fairer Future planning proposal and commended our proactive approach to address housing diversity, affordability, and equitable growth across the LGA.
TOGA’s recognised that Our Fairer Future is a social justice policy to fix the housing crisis and welcomed Council’s support to recognise the Ashfield site as a key opportunity for a new mixed-use precinct, anchored by a state-of-art mental health campus supported by residential dwellings to meet the evolving needs of the Inner West community, and submitted a SSDA application.
In the meantime, the site is providing shelter and wraparound support services for women, children, men and transgender people experiencing homelessness.
The Inner West Project, the Southern Hemisphere's largest 'meanwhile use' housing initiative opened on 29 October 2025. TOGA provided the 8,000 m² site under a $1 lease for at least two years, funded through the NSW Government's Homelessness Innovation Fund. Delivered with partners Housing All Australians, Women’s Community Shelters (WCS), Jewish House, and FDC Building & Fitout, the project provides over 100 beds (36,500 safe nights annually) with wraparound support services.
The transformation of this site from a closed mental health facility into the Southern Hemisphere's largest meanwhile use housing project demonstrates what is possible when property owners, governments, and community partners collaborate to address homelessness and turn idle buildings into places that rebuild lives.
A Women’s Community Shelters first, Community Support Hub onsite offers case management, legal clinics, life skills programs, and mental health support for women from the broader community.
To ensure the ongoing success of this project and maximise its positive impact on our community, Council seeks to mobilise local volunteers and community organisations to support the various programs and services being delivered through the Inner West Project and its Community Support Hub.
Community involvement will be essential in helping to provide the wraparound support services that make this model so effective in addressing homelessness and supporting vulnerable members of our community.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Inner West Council Development Control Plan (DCP)
From: Councillor Jessica D'Arienzo
|
MOTION
1. That Council reviews and consolidates the three existing Development Control Plans (Ashfield DCP, Leichhardt DCP, and Marrickville DCP) into a single, simplified, principles-based Development Control Plan for the Inner West Local Government Area.
2. That Council develops the new DCP based on general design principles rather than overly prescriptive controls, providing flexibility for contextually appropriate development while maintaining clear standards.
3. That Council incorporates all previous Council resolutions and adopted motions relating to development controls, including solar access in heritage conservation areas.
4. That Council examine the integration of the State Government’s new pattern book designs within the new DCP to standardise design elements and provide clear visual guidance for applicants and the community.
5. That Council allocate the DCP review and consolidation as the first and priority project for the newly appointed City Architect.
6. That Council notes that the objectives of this DCP are to support high-quality, sustainable development outcomes and: a) Reduce the number of matters proceeding to the Land and Environment Court; b) Provide greater certainty for residents and applicants; c) Streamline development assessment processes; and d) Ensure consistency across the LGA.
|
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: Question on Notice: Early Childhood Education and Care
From: Councillor Liz Atkins
Comment by the General Manager:
Answers to the questions will be provided at the Ordinary Council meeting in December 2025.
Question
Has Inner West Council received funding from the Australian Government for the early childhood worker retention payment and if so, when was it received?
Question
If not, when do we expect payment?
Question
Have eligible Inner West Council staff received the payment? If not, when will they receive it?
Question
Was the payment to staff backdated, and if so, to what date?
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 18 November 2025 |
Subject: 67-75 Lords Road, Leichhardt - Dedication of Open Space
Prepared By: Ryann Midei - Director Property and Major Projects
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council adopt the recommendations contained in Confidential Attachment 1.
|
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport |
|
|
DISCUSSION
Council will move into a closed session to deal with the 67-75 Lords Road, Leichhardt - Dedication to Open Space, as the information is classified as confidential under section 10A(2)(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 and if disclosed confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the council.
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 the business to be considered is classified as confidential under section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993.
|
Confidential Report - 67-75 Lords Road, Leichhardt - Dedication of Open Space - 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. |
|
|
Lords Road Planning Agreement - 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. |
|
|
75 Lords Road - Explanatory Note IWC - 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. |