Minutes of Council - Tuesday, 17 March 2026

Council Meeting

17 March 2026

Minutes of Ordinary Council Meeting held on 17 March 2026 at Ashfield Service Centre

Meeting commenced at 7.34pm

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
Peter Gainsford

Simone Plummer

Mayor

Deputy Mayor

Councillor

General Manager

Director Planning

Ruth Callaghan

Director Community

Sharon Bowman

Peter Shields

Ryann Midei

Matthew Pearce

Megan Jenkins

Manod Wickramasinghe

Ken Welsh

Director Corporate

Director Engineering

Director Property and Major Projects

General Counsel

Senior Lawyer

Traffic and Transport Planning Manager

Coordinator Strategic Transport Planning

George Georgakis

Katherine Paixao

Tia Camelin

Administration Manager

Business Paper Coordinator

Business Paper Officer

APOLOGIES AND REQUEST FOR REMOTE PARTICIPATION:

Nil.

DISCLOSURES OF INTEREST:

Councillor Barlow declared a non-significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 6 – Local Transport Forum Meeting – 16 February 2026 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 Scott declared a significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 15 – Precinct 75, St Peters – Variation to the Voluntary Planning Agreement as she was Council’s representative on the Sydney Eastern Planning Panel that approved Precinct 75 development. She will leave the meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.

Councillor Clay declared a non-significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 6 – Local Transport Forum Meeting – 16 February 2026 - Item 1 for GoGet share spaces locations, as her primary residence is in the same street as one of the proposed locations. She will remain in the chamber to vote on the matter as the proposed site at the opposite end of the street and would not affect her primary residence.

Councillor Antoniou declared a non-significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 21 – Supporting Visual Artists and Writers to Find Affordable Spaces to Work in the Inner West as the outgoing collective from Thirning Villa – refugee art project is an organisation she has collaborated with over the years. In the last 2 years, she has not partaken in compensated activities with them but out of an abundance of caution she will leave the meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.

Councillor Antoniou declared a significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 18 – Project Update: Enmore Walk of Fame as she has a known associate that currently sits on the Executive of the Enmore Theatre. Although she does not receive any income or benefits from this connection, out of an abundance of caution she will leave the meeting during discussion and voting on the matter.

Motion: (Howard/Smith)

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

Motion: (D’Arienzo/Carlisle)

That the Minutes of the Ordinary Council meeting held on Tuesday, 17 February 2026, Extraordinary Council meeting held on Tuesday, 17 February 2026 and Extraordinary Council meeting held on Tuesday, 24 February 2026 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

C0326(1) Item 43 Mayoral Minute: Farewell to Ryann Midei

Motion: (Byrne)

That Council notes the contributions of Ryann Midei, Director of Property and Major Projects during his time at Inner West Council and thanks Ryann for his work in delivering a range of key community projects.

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 Council Suspend Standing Orders to bring forward the following items to be dealt with at this time:

1. Item 3 Balmain Road and Callan Park Cycleway

2. Item 10 I Have a Dream Mural Newtown - State Heritage Listing

3. Item 17 Leichhardt Oval Refurbishment - Monthly Project Update

4. Item 23 Tourism Action Plan Bi-Monthly Update

5. Item 24 Update Report for Inner West Tech Startup

6. Item 25 Investment Report at 31 January 2026

7. Item 26 Councillor Expenses for 1 July 2025 - 31 December 2025

8. Item 27 Updated Pecuniary Interest Return

9. Item 33 Notice of Motion: Graffiti Management

10. Item 34 Notice of Motion: Recognition of Sister Alison Bush

11. Item 35 Notice of Motion: Native Plantings for Thornley Street Retained

Cutting, Marrickville

12. Item 36 Notice of Motion: Parking on Dobroyd Parade, Cove Street and

Wolseley Street, Habberfield

13. Item 37 Notice of Motion: Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre (LPAC) Children’s

Pool Staffing

14. Item 38 Notice of Motion: Prioritisation of works to Albert Parade Reserve,

Ashfield

15. Item 39 Notice of Motion: Leichhardt Women's Community Health Centre

Renovation Support

16. Item 40 Notice of Motion: Hammond Park Upgrade Community Celebration

17. Item 42 Notice of Motion: Aboriginal Student Program Indigenous Garden,

White Creek Valley Park

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 reports be adopted:

1. Item 3 Balmain Road and Callan Park Cycleway

2. Item 10 I Have a Dream Mural Newtown - State Heritage Listing

3. Item 17 Leichhardt Oval Refurbishment - Monthly Project Update

4. Item 23 Tourism Action Plan Bi-Monthly Update

5. Item 24 Update Report for Inner West Tech Startup

6. Item 25 Investment Report at 31 January 2026

7. Item 26 Councillor Expenses for 1 July 2025 - 31 December 2025

8. Item 27 Updated Pecuniary Interest Return

9. Item 33 Notice of Motion: Graffiti Management

10. Item 34 Notice of Motion: Recognition of Sister Alison Bush

11. Item 35 Notice of Motion: Native Plantings for Thornley Street Retained

Cutting, Marrickville

12. Item 36 Notice of Motion: Parking on Dobroyd Parade, Cove Street and

Wolseley Street, Habberfield

13. Item 37 Notice of Motion: Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre (LPAC) Children’s

Pool Staffing

14. Item 38 Notice of Motion: Prioritisation of works to Albert Parade Reserve,

Ashfield

15. Item 39 Notice of Motion: Leichhardt Women's Community Health Centre

Renovation Support

16. Item 40 Notice of Motion: Hammond Park Upgrade Community Celebration

17. Item 42 Notice of Motion: Aboriginal Student Program Indigenous Garden,

White Creek Valley Park

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

C0326(1) Item 3 Balmain Road and Callan Park Cycleway

Motion: (Howard/Atkins)

That the priority of the Balmain Road and Callan Park Cycleway is reconsidered as part of the forthcoming review of the Inner West Cycling Strategy and Action Plan, including route options and recent consultation with key stakeholders.

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

C0326(1) Item 10 I Have a Dream Mural Newtown - State Heritage Listing

Motion: (Howard/Atkins)

That Council engage a heritage consultant to assess the I Have a Dream Mural for a State Heritage listing.

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

C0326(1) Item 17 Leichhardt Oval Refurbishment - Monthly Project Update

Motion: (Howard/Atkins)

That Council receive and note the report which details the following progress since the last report:

1. The State Significant Development Application public exhibited has now closed, with submissions being compiled by DPHI.

2. The project team has advanced the western grandstand, northern grandstand and lower bowl seating from schematic design into detailed design, supported by specialist architectural, engineering and cost‑planning consultants.

3. The procurement process to appoint a suitably qualified and experienced contractor to finalise the design and undertake the works has commenced.

4. An updated cost plan is being prepared and will be incorporated into the 2026/27 budget planning process.

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

C0326(1) Item 23 Tourism Action Plan Bi-Monthly Update

Motion: (Howard/Atkins)

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

C0326(1) Item 24 Update Report for Inner West Tech Startup

Motion: (Howard/Atkins)

1. That Council receive and note the report outlining the timeframes for delivery of the endorsed initiatives.

2. That ongoing updates on the progress of delivering the initiatives be provided via Briefing Note.

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

C0326(1) Item 25 Investment Report at 31 January 2026

Motion: (Howard/Atkins)

That Council receive and note the investment report for the period ending 31 January 2026, with an annualised return of 4.52% pa on a marked-to-market basis (against the ‘AusBond Bank Bill Index’ Benchmark of 3.64% pa).

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

C0326(1) Item 26 Councillor Expenses for 1 July 2025 - 31 December 2025

Motion: (Howard/Atkins)

That Council receive and note the public reporting of Councillor expenses for the period from 1 July 2025 to 31 December 2025, as required by the Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy.

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

C0326(1) Item 27 Updated Pecuniary Interest Return

Motion: (Howard/Atkins)

That Council receive and note the updated Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest Return lodged by Clr Olivia Barlow.

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

C0326(1) Item 33 Notice of Motion: Graffiti Management

Motion: (Howard/Atkins)

1. That Council acknowledges community reports that there has been an apparent increase in graffiti across the Inner West, particularly tagging.

2. That Council notes that graffiti can have a range of adverse impacts, including reduced visual amenity, damage to public and private assets, additional maintenance costs, and negative perceptions of local environments, especially main streets.

3. That Council recognises the ongoing work of Council staff, NSW police and Inner West residents to reduce instances of problem graffiti.

4. That Council reaffirms the Inner West Council’s ongoing commitment to supporting and promoting public art, including through the Perfect Match Program, Newtown Art Seat, and legal graffiti walls.

5. That Council requests that Council officers, no later than June 2026, prepare and report back a harmonised Graffiti Management Policy for public exhibition, providing a consistent framework for prevention, reporting, removal, and coordination of graffiti responses across the Local Government Area.

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

C0326(1) Item 34 Notice of Motion: Recognition of Sister Alison Bush

Motion: (Howard/Atkins)

1. That Council acknowledges the significant contribution of Sister Alison Bush to nursing, midwifery, and the health and wellbeing of First Nations women and families.

2. That Council thanks the Postgraduate Committee of Marrickville District Hospital Graduates for bringing forward this matter and for their ongoing work in preserving the history and legacy of the former hospital and its staff.

3. That Council requests that Council officers investigate options for a formal recognition of Sister Alison Bush at Marrickville Library and Pavilion, including the installation of a plaque, following consultation with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee, Post Graduate Committee of Marrickville District Hospital and other stakeholders as appropriate.

4. That Council requests staff report back to Council no later than August 2026.

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

C0326(1) Item 35 Notice of Motion: Native Plantings for Thornley Street Retained Cutting, Marrickville

Motion: (Howard/Atkins)

1. That Council notes the current condition of the garden within the retained cutting, which is overgrown with weeds and unmaintained, contributing to the spread of invasive species into neighbouring private gardens and towards the Cooks River corridor.

2. That Council as soon as is practicable, clear the garden bed and replant it with appropriate native, drought-resistant species, with works to be undertaken within the scope of the existing roads or parks maintenance budget.

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

C0326(1) Item 36 Notice of Motion: Parking on Dobroyd Parade, Cove Street and Wolseley Street, Habberfield

Motion: (Howard/Atkins)

1. That Council acknowledges the concerns raised by Dobroyd Parade, Cove Street and Wolseley Street, Haberfield regarding parking by local businesses in residential areas.

2. That Council notes the concerns of residents regarding the proposed EV kerbside charging locations on Dobroyd Parade, Cove Street and Wolseley Street, including the potential loss of existing open parking - a matter compounded by business parking.

3. That Council directs officers to undertake targeted ranger enforcement of any parking violations associated with the nearby automotive business, particularly where vehicles are being parked on residential streets as overflow for commercial operations.

4. That Council writes to the relevant NSW Government Ministers seeking additional enforcement tools where business parking practices relate to Development Consent breaches, including stronger compliance pathways for Council.

5. That Council commits to raising these issues formally with the Member for Summer Hill, Jo Haylen MP, to coordinate State and Local Government advocacy, and outlining the actions Council has taken.

6. That Council requests Council officers prepare information for the residents of this street that includes:

a) The outcome of community feedback on the Dobroyd Parade EV charging proposal;

b) Information about how business parking will be addressed and violations enforced,

c) Advise as to how the residents may request the introduction of a Resident Parking Scheme for Cove Street, Wolseley Street and adjacent streets should displacement from business activity or EV parking changes continue.

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

C0326(1) Item 37 Notice of Motion: Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre (LPAC) Children’s Pool Staffing

Motion: (Howard/Atkins)

1. That Council notes the successful opening of the newly upgraded facilities at the Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre (LPAC) following the completion of Stage 1 works, which deliver significant improvements for families and children, including:

a) A new children’s splash and play area;

b) Refurbishment of the children’s play pool;

c) A new BBQ area, seating, and shade structures;

d) New and advanced heating and cooling systems for the indoor program pool, the surrounding indoor pool area, and the children’s pool;

e) Inner West Council’s successful securing of $1 million in federal funding from the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts to support Stage 1 upgrades.

2. That Council acknowledges the concerns raised by local families about occasional closure of the children’s pool due to insufficient lifeguard staffing.

3. That Council requests a review of LPAC’s staffing levels, with a focus on ensuring adequate lifeguard coverage for all children’s aquatic facilities, especially during high‑demand periods.

4. That Council commits to ensuring that the children’s pool is reliably open every weekend during the summer season, from October to April.

5. That Council requests that the General Manager report back to the Mayor on:

a) Findings from the staffing review;

b) Operational measures to prevent avoidable closures of children’s facilities;

c) A plan to ensure clear communication to patrons regarding any unexpected facility closures.

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

C0326(1) Item 38 Notice of Motion: Prioritisation of works to Albert Parade Reserve, Ashfield

Motion: (Howard/Atkins)

1. That Council note that the deferral of the Pocket Parks Plan of Management may have inadvertently signalled an intent to defer pocket parks that are of urgent concern and interest to residents.

2. That Council note that Albert Parade Reserve in Ashfield is listed as Priority 1 in the Pocket Parks Plan of Management and community consultation was undertaken and finalised June 2023, with design work also well progressed.

3. That Council reaffirm the intent of the motion adopted in November 2024 to progress improvements to Albert Parade Reserve in parallel with the finalisation of the Pocket Parks Plan of Management, and not to defer this park, given there has already been significant community effort invested in the consultation process.

4. That Council confirm that Albert Parade Reserve be prioritised for delivery and that staff prepare to commence works this financial year, or as soon as possible, given the significant time residents have already waited since consultation began in 2023.

5. That Council ensure that the 2023 community feedback and completed design work for Albert Parade Reserve are retained and used to guide the project’s next steps without further delay.

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

C0326(1) Item 39 Notice of Motion: Leichhardt Women's Community Health Centre Renovation Support

Motion: (Howard/Atkins)

1. That Council note the $2.07 million investment in the Leichhardt Women’s Community Health Centre (LWCHC) to redesign and upgrade its facilities, including the provision of more counselling rooms, provided by the re-elected Albanese Labor Government.

2. That Council note the ongoing support provided by Inner West Council in partnering to facilitate the grant funds being provided to LWCHC.

3. That Council note that the design work is currently being progressed with FJC Studios as architects.

4. That Council commit to working to facilitate any necessary planning approval to enable works to be completed as expeditiously as possible, noting a planned timeline of commencement of works in September 2026 and completion in early 2027.

5. That Council note that the Leichhardt Women’s Community Health Centre will be required to vacate their premises to enable the works to take place, and commit to work proactively and with immediate commencement, to assist them to locate alternative temporary premises during the renovation, seeking rent-free Council premises as a first option.

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

C0326(1) Item 40 Notice of Motion: Hammond Park Upgrade Community Celebration

Motion: (Howard/Atkins)

1. That Council note that Inner West Council and the Federal Labor Government are jointly progressing an upgrade to Hammond Park, Ashfield that includes improved field surface and installation of new turf; upgraded irrigation and drainage; upgraded floodlighting and new cricket wicket.

2. That Council note that construction is now gathering momentum and is expected to be completed in March 2026 (weather permitting).

3. That Council commits to holding a community celebration with Ashfield Pirates FC, Ashfield Cricket Club, Football Canterbury and other user groups, and local residents, to coincide with the start of the football season in March 2026.

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

C0326(1) Item 42 Notice of Motion: Aboriginal Student Program Indigenous Garden, White Creek Valley Park

Motion: (Howard/Atkins)

1. That Council meet with Sydney Secondary College, Leichhardt (SSCL) Social Worker, Eloise Griffith and SSCL Aboriginal Education Officer to discuss the opportunity to establish a weekly program for Aboriginal students to work in the Indigenous Garden (Bush Tucker Garden) at Whites Creek Valley Park.

2. That Council include the Inner West Aboriginal Cultural Advisor to advise Council on the cultural aspects of the project.

3. That Council provide a briefing note by the end of April, outlining the project’s feasibility, proposed timing, and detailed scope, including the materials, resources, and in-kind support Council can supply, and:

a) Any supervision, risk management, and insurance considerations;

b) Ongoing maintenance responsibilities; and whether the project qualifies under Council’s “Adopt-a-Spot” program or a similar community partnership initiative.

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

C0326(1) Item 1 Public Exhibition - Draft Great Inner West Walk Study

Motion: (Howard/Fergusson)

1. That Council defer consideration of the Item and brings back an amended report in August 2026 that proposes one continuous route that:

a) connects suburbs in the north to the south, and may consist of one or two spurs to connect suburbs to the east and west

b) considers and includes key walks that already exist in the Inner West

c) reflects the feedback offered in community engagement to date.

2. That a Great Inner West Walk committee be established to help inform the project, and is to:

a) Consist of Clr Fergusson (Chair), Clr Howard, Clr Atkins and the Director of Engineering;

b) Meet monthly until no later than August; and

c) Primarily advise on the proposal of an alternative route, required infrastructure, a communications plan, and options for future expansion.

3. That Council bring a separate report to the August 2026 Council meeting that considers the elements of the proposal offered in the proposal from SCT Consulting that may provide additional value to the Pedestrian and Access Mobility Plan (PAMP) and recommendations as to how the PAMP may be revised to incorporate them.

4. That the Access, Bicycle and Transport Local Democracy Groups be consulted on both reports before bringing them back to Council.

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

C0326(1) Item 2 Inner West Pickleball Courts

Motion: (Fergusson/Tastan)

1. That Council endorse the proposal to convert the Punch Park sport courts to become multi-purpose courts that have an appointed tennis operator for limited hours each week. These courts will have line‑markings added for four non-bookable Pickleball courts. Council will engage with the nearby community about the forthcoming changes and take feedback into consideration when the works proceed in mid-2026.

2. That the forthcoming review of the Inner West Recreation Strategy consider additional Pickleball facility works, prioritised with consideration of all other sport capital upgrade works.

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

C0326(1) Item 4 Halloween Activity Coordination

Motion: (Fergusson/Barlow)

1. That Council endorse the proposed enhancements planned to promote community Halloween activities, to increase road safety messaging and clarify arrangements for street party road closures.

2. That, in addition, Council receives a report to the April 2026 meeting from the Events Team outlining a community event or competition element, such as (but not limited to) a “Spookiest House in the Inner West” or “Best Dressed in the Inner West” competition, to encourage community participation.

3. That the report in April 2026 includes clear delivery timelines for the event, and a supporting social media and communications plan for the event and for advertising the street closures application process well in time for Halloween 2026.

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

C0326(1) Item 5 Advancing Disability Access improvements in Council Street Infrastructure

Motion: (Carlisle/Atkins)

1. That Council notes the importance of accessible street infrastructure in supporting safety, inclusion and independent movement for people with disability and the wider community.

2. That Council notes the accessibility improvements delivered across the Inner West through implementation of the Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2023–26, including footpath upgrades, raised pedestrian crossings, kerb ramps and Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan (PAMP) works.

3. That Council acknowledges that a significant volume of accessibility improvement works are being delivered through multiple programs but are not consistently captured or communicated in current reporting.

4. That Council requests that Council officers develop an improved communication and reporting approach for PAMP and accessibility improvements, to better inform Council, the Access Local Democracy Group and the community of completed and planned works.

5. That Council supports the ongoing provision of $1.5 million per annum in the Long‑Term Financial Plan for priority accessibility upgrades to street infrastructure.

6. That Council consider localised treatments when advancing disability access improvements to ensure they directly address and not contradict the access needs of community members in a given area.

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

C0326(1) Item 6 Local Transport Forum Meeting - 16 February 2026

Motion:(Howard/Macri)

That Council receive and adopt the recommendations of the Local Transport Forum meeting held on 16 February 2026, subject to the following amendments:

a) Item 13: Bunnings Tempe Local Area Traffic Management - Design Plan No. HD202, point 2 be amended to read:

2. That Council in principle support a 10km/h shared zone on Union St, Tempe, between Princes Highway and School Lane (Drawing No. LATM7 and LATM8) subject to approval from TfNSW and trial the installation of a Local Traffic Only sign at the entrance to Brooklyn Street from the Princes Hwy for a period of 6 months, reporting any findings as part of the 6 month review of the Tempe South LATM scheme.

b) Item 17: Unnamed Laneway, Marrickville rear of Church Street and Warren Road - Adjustment to No Parking Restriction) be amended to read:

1. That the existing ‘No Parking’ restriction on the southern side of the laneway (at the rear of Church Street and Warren Road, Marrickville) be extended west by 2m, up to the gate of No.43 Warren Road (Option 1).

2. Council Officers investigate upgrading parking restrictions at bend in the laneway as well the intersection of Church Street and the Unnamed Lane.

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

C0326(1) Item 7 Illawarra Road Business Roundtable

Motion: (Howard/Barlow)

1. That Council endorse the Illawarra Road Roundtable Action Plan for delivery.

2. That Council receive a report in June 2026 that provides an update on medium- and long-term actions from all business roundtable action plans, being Haberfield, Crystal Street and Illawarra Road. This report will also include an update of those actions that have been completed.

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

C0326(1) Item 8 Good Neighbour Policy

Motion: (Scott/Byrne)

1. That Council endorse for public exhibition the revised draft Good Neighbour Policy as attached for a period of 28 days and seek community feedback.

2. That following the conclusion of the exhibition period the revised draft Good Neighbour Policy be brought back to Council for consideration and adoption.

3. That Council revert the change in Section 1, Purpose, to make it clear that Council is committed to keep premises operating wherever possible.

4. That Council in line with the adopted resolution of April 2024:

a) Replace “noise” with “sound” across the policy; and

b) Replace “noise disturbance” with “sound and activity management” in paragraph 3 of section 1, paragraph 3 of section 6, sub heading 7.1, paragraph 2 of section 7.2.

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

C0326(1) Item 9 Parklets and On Road Dining

Motion: (Smith/D’Arienzo)

1. That Council officers partner with students from the University of NSW School of Built Environment, Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture on design options for future parklets, with an emphasis on cost effective installation and maintenance, accessibility, and sustainability.

2. That students are asked to prioritise sustainable environmental design, accessibility needs, and to avoid anti-homelessness architecture in their designs.

3. That as part of its Public Domain Master Plans, Council include design considerations for transforming successful parklet areas into permanent extended outdoor dining spaces, through dedicated master planning design works.

4. That Council continue to assess and determine applications for on-road dining – and options to amend the Schedule of Fees and Charges be investigated so that where a business applies for on-road dining, all installation costs are borne by the business.

5. That Council, upon finalisation of the parklet design options, will form a condition of approval for on-road dining applications.

6. That the Interim Outdoor Dining Guidelines by reviewed, updated and communicated to local business.

7. That Council receive a report back on the above to the June 2026 Council Meeting, detailing the design options and costs, resulting proposed changes to the Schedule of Fees and Charges, and outcomes of engagement with businesses.

8. That Council receive a report to the April 2026 Meeting on installation of parklets in Australia Street with the intent to have all trial parklets installed by June 2026.

9. That Council update Table 1 - Operational Parklets within the LGA - The Stable to Dulwich Hill.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan

Against Motion: Cr Macri

C0326(1) Item 11 Seniors Morning Teas to Celebrate the GreenWay

Motion: (Clay/Atkins)

That Council receive and adopt the Seniors Morning Teas to Celebrate the Greenway report, and that Council endorse the expansion of the Seniors Morning Tea program to schedule and encourage morning teas:

a) For the Marrickville-Midjuburi Ward;

b) At the Annandale Community Centre;

c) A Christmas themed morning tea in December 2026;

d) Work with other local organisations to coordinate a morning tea for LGBTQIA+ seniors; and

e) Provide an updated report to the April 2026 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

C0326(1) Item 12 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Hub - Project Update

Motion: (Carlisle/Barlow)

1. That Council adopt the conceptual designs in Attachment 1 of the report.

2. That Council endorse proceeding with detailed design development, planning approval and delivery stages.

3. That Council note that an external Quantity Surveyor has estimated the total project cost at $1,927,260, resulting in an approximate funding shortfall of $60,000, and commit to funding this shortfall through the 2026/27 Council budget.

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 8:23 pm.

C0326(1) Item 13 Lewisham Placemaking Improvements Project

Motion: (Smith/Clay)

1. That Council proceed with the development of a draft placemaking plan for the Lewisham Town Centre, including costing estimates for each element, with the following amendments to actions to be explored by Council:

a) In addition to a civic plaza, consider creating a shared zone and installing kerb extensions at the northern end of Victoria Street to provide additional pedestrian amenity and traffic calming,

b) Investigate pedestrianising Jubilee Lane near Victoria Street to provide an additional public space,

c) Investigate opportunities to semi-regularly close the northern end of Victoria Street to traffic to host live music and community events,

d) Proactively target shopfronts on Victoria St with information on the Business Facade Improvement Program.

2. That Council write to the Minister of Transport to inform them of the outcomes of the community engagement and call for a partnership to deliver works to improve Lewisham which complements Transport for NSW’s station upgrade works.

3. That Council receive a report back on the draft placemaking plan and engagements with Transport for NSW by the September 2026 Council Meeting.

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 8:29 pm.

C0326(1) Item 14 Marrickville Mosaics Repair

Motion: (Howard/Byrne)

That Council endorse the new strategy and timeline detailed in this report to restore the Marrickville Mosaics, proceeding with the first ten murals before September 2026 as a trial, and returning to Council in October 2026 with a further report reviewing costs and potential options to deliver the remaining works in the most cost-effective manner without compromising the quality or timeline of the project.

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/D’Arienzo)

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

Council entered into Closed Session at 8:32pm.

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:

C0326(1) Item 15 Precinct 75, St Peters - Variation To The Voluntary Planning Agreement (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.

C0326(1) Item 16 Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre Upgrade - Monthly Project Update (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; AND commercial information of a confidential nature (Section 10A(2)(d)(i) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it; AND commercial information of a confidential nature (Section 10A(2)(d)(ii) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the council.

Councillor Scott left the Meeting at 8:33 pm as she declared a significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 15 as she was Council’s representative on the Sydney Eastern Planning Panel that approved Precinct 75 development.

resolutions passed during closed session

C0326(1) Item 15 Precinct 75, St Peters - Variation To The Voluntary Planning Agreement

Motion: (Howard/Macri)

1. That Council note that the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure is soon to publish its formal determination to a State Significant Development Application and concurrent rezoning under the new Housing Delivery Authority (HDA) mandate for Precinct 75 (situated at 67, 73-83 Mary, 50-52 Edith and 43 Roberts Streets, St Peters).

2. That Council accept the Revised Letter of Offer dated 26 November 2025 relating to the Voluntary Planning Agreement executed 23 June 2020 for Precinct 75.

3. That Council endorse the General Manager or nominated delegate to negotiate and finalise a Deed of Variation to Planning Agreement in accordance with the Revised Letter of Offer.

4. That Council publicly exhibit the Deed of Variation to Voluntary Planning Agreement for a period of 28 days and seek community feedback; with a report to be brought back to Council on exhibition outcomes.

5. That Council publish this confidential business paper on Council’s website after all final Occupation Certificates are granted for the development at Precinct 75, subject to prior consultation with affected parties.

6. That Council write to the Minister for Planning expressing concern that the approvals pathway for the development has resulted in the local community potentially receiving lower developer contributions than would ordinarily be expected, noting that the additional density approved through the Housing Delivery Authority has not been matched by a commensurate increase in contributions to support local infrastructure, community facilities and the public domain.

7. That Council officers continue to exercise their functions for the protection of the community in respect of Precinct 75 development site – noting the significant non compliances to date - and continue to support local residents by establishing a single point of contact for residents within Council for concerns.

8. That Council investigate the ability to manage the artist studios internally and report back to Council relevant resourcing requirements and processes.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Smith and Tastan

Against Motion: Nil

Absent: Cr Scott

Councillor Scott returned to the Meeting at 8:50 pm.

C0326(1) Item 16 Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre Upgrade - Monthly Project Update

Motion: (Byrne/Macri)

1. That Council receive and note the report which details the following progress since the last report:

a) Stage 1 was completed and officially opened on 15 February 2026.

b) The continued progress of Stage 2, with Council having resolved at its February 2026 meeting to decline all tenders and enter into negotiations with one or more of the tenderers, or any other relevant party, with a view to entering into a contract for the subject matter of the tender. These negotiations are currently underway and are subject to commercial in confidence requirements, with an update provided in Confidential Attachment 1.

2. That Council receive and note the commercial in confidence negotiation update provided in Confidential Attachment 1.

3. That Council consider the publication of this business paper, and Confidential Attachment 1, on Council’s website after the completion (end of defects liability period) of the Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre Stage 2 Upgrade, subject to consultation with affected parties.

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

Council moved back into Open Session at 9:07pm following the adoption of the procedural motion below:

Procedural Motion (D’Arienzo/Carlisle)

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

Councillor Antoniou left the Meeting at 9:10 pm as she declared a significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 18 as she has a known associate that currently sits on the Executive of the Enmore Theatre.

Councillor Atkins left the Meeting at 9:10 pm.

C0326(1) Item 18 Project Update: Enmore Walk of Fame

Motion: (Smith/Clay)

1. That Council receive and note the report outlining the scheduled delivery program for the Enmore Walk of Fame, with completion targeted by 30 June 2026.

2. That Council in consultation with Century Venues, commence planning for a public event to celebrate and promote the completion of the Enmore Walk of Fame.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan

Against Motion: Nil

Absent: Crs Antoniou and Atkins

Councillor Antoniou returned to the Meeting at 9:13 pm.

Councillor Atkins returned to the Meeting at 9:13 pm.

C0326(1) Item 19 Mandatory Reporting to Council of Reports Received from Fire & Rescue NSW for 3 Properties

Motion: (Fergusson/D’Arienzo)

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

C0326(1) Item 20 Update On Creative Town Hall Program

Motion: (Smith/Byrne)

1. That Council receive and note the ongoing success of the Creative Town Hall program.

2. That Council consult with Create NSW on opportunities for expansion and best-practice management of the Creative Town Halls Program, including opportunities to expand live music activations, with a report back to the May 2026 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

Councillor Antoniou left the Meeting at 9:15 pm as she declared a non-significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 21 as the outgoing collective from Thirning Villa – refugee art project is an organisation she has collaborated with over the years.

C0326(1) Item 21 Supporting Visual Artists and Writers to Find Affordable Spaces to Work in the Inner West

Motion: (Smith/D’Arienzo)

That Council defer this matter to May 2026.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan

Against Motion: Nil

Absent: Cr Antoniou

Councillor Antoniou returned to the Meeting at 9:19 pm.

C0326(1) Item 22 Major Residential Development Panel and Housing Delivery - Quarterly Update

Motion: (D’Arienzo/Byrne)

1. That Council receive and note the report.

2. That Council arrange a meeting with the City of Newcastle General Manager and Executive Director of Planning and Environment to discuss their Accelerated Development Application framework, and seek improvements to our DA process.

3. That Council report progress at the next quarterly update on improving internal referral timeliness, including team-by-team performance data identifying specialist teams missing the 14-day target and a plan for any team below 80% compliance.

4. That Council develop a formal handover protocol for development applications changing assessing officer and report progress at the next quarterly update.

5. That Council expedite the revised plain-English Request for Further Information template and report progress at the next quarterly update.

6. That Council note the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure's acknowledgement of Council's strong development assessment performance, and that the General Manager provide a Councillor Briefing Note recommending a project for nomination under the Faster Assessments Incentive Program grant of up to $2,000,000, prioritising housing delivery in the Inner West.

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

C0326(1) Item 28 Notice of Motion: Illawarra Road Traffic and Safety Concerns

Motion: (Howard/Macri)

1. That Council acknowledges the longstanding concerns raised by residents regarding through-traffic (“rat running”) on Illawarra Road, particularly north of Marrickville Road, and the associated impacts on local safety, amenity, and access for families, school children and pedestrians.

2. That Council thanks local residents, businesses and community members for continuing to bring these matters to Council’s attention and for their advocacy in seeking practical, place-based improvements.

3. That Council refers the matter to the Local Transport Forum for formal consideration and requests that Council officers investigate and report back on potential traffic-calming and place-making measures, including but not limited to:

a) A timed trial of parklets, other modal filters, or similar kerbside treatments in key locations, potentially adjacent to Miss Sina or The Henson Pub;

b) Temporary or permanent traffic-calming devices (e.g. raised thresholds, chicanes, or narrowing treatments);

c) Changes to parking configuration to reduce speeding and discourage through-traffic;

d) Improved pedestrian safety measures, crossings and sight-line improvements near schools and activity areas;

e) Traffic data collection and modelling to assess vehicle volumes, speeds and diversion to appropriate arterial roads; and

f) Consultation with affected residents and businesses alongside the development of any trial.

4. That Council undertake a review of the Local Area Traffic Management plans (LATM), particularly for the streets surrounding Illawarra Road between Sydenham and Addison roads whilst also progressing the proposals above.

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

C0326(1) Item 29 Notice of Motion: Traffic Calming - Weston Street, Dulwich Hill

Motion: (D’Arienzo/Carlisle)

1. That Council notes the success and popularity of the GreenWay.

2. That Council notes that residents of Weston Street, Dulwich Hill, while loving the GreenWay, have reported that they are experiencing impacts from its popularity including pedestrian and cyclist safety, and damage to private property including cars and gardens.

3. That Council writes to all Weston Street residents to acknowledge their concerns and invite them to meet with Council officers.

4. That Council urgently investigates and implements practical measures to improve safety and amenity.

5. That Council provide the residents of Weston street an update on upcoming pedestrian and traffic management work in relation to the Greenway, including the additional wayfinding and changes at the Old Canterbury Road crossing.

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

C0326(1) Item 30 Notice of Motion: Supporting a Vibrant Night-time Economy in the Inner West

Motion: (Smith/Scott)

1. That Council notes and supports the NSW Government’s “Vibrancy Reforms”, legislative changes to support the resurgence of Sydney’s night-time economy by simplifying regulation including liquor licensing, incentivising live music and events, and increasing operating and trading flexibility, to the benefit of both operators and patrons.

2. That Council notes that these reforms have supported and enabled Council’s local efforts to revive live music, night-time entertainment, and vibrancy in the Inner West, benefiting the local economy and helping to establish the Inner West as a premier live music and night-time entertainment destination through the establishment of Special Entertainment Precincts, including on King Street, Enmore.

3. That Council notes recent media reports that NSW Police are advocating for additional conditions to be imposed on the liquor license of The Marlborough Hotel on King Street, Newtown, one of the largest and latest-trading venues in the inner city, in response to a purported increase in police-reported incidents, including facial recognition cameras, alcohol restrictions after midnight, and restricting capacity on the venue’s dance floors to one person per square metre.

4. That Council notes that overly restrictive policing of hospitality and entertainment venues, including alcohol service limits the use of sniffer dogs, and onerous security requirements, has been shown to have a devastating impact on inner city venues, with over half of Sydney’s music venues shuttered in the decade since the introduction of the lockout laws.

5. That Council resolves that the additional conditions proposed by NSW Police:

a) Undermine both the “Vibrancy Reforms” and the Inner West Council’s Special Entertainment Precincts, both of which represent efforts to support the local night-time economy,

b) Represent a disproportionate, onerous, and overly-invasive approach which could reduce patronage and impact the venue’s viability as a late-night venue, and

c) If replicated at other venues in the area, would have a significant and negative impact on local businesses, visitation, and vibrancy in the Inner West and inner city.

6. That Council affirms that community safety does not have to come at the expense of vibrancy or venue viability, and that police and Liquor and Gaming must work in cooperation with venues to balance safety, vibrancy, and viability.

7. That Council resolves that the General Manager write to the NSW Police Commissioner, the Inner West Police Area Command, and the 24 Hour Economy Commissioner expressing opposition to the proposed conditions and requesting that they work with the operator of the Marlborough Hotel and other venues in the Inner West to ensure any conditions recommended to be imposed on venues by NSW Police seek to support the intent and implementation of the NSW Government’s “Vibrancy Reforms” and the Special Entertainment Precincts.

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

C0326(1) Item 31 Notice of Motion: Defence of Democratic Rights

Motion: (Atkins/Barlow)

1. That Council notes with serious concern reports and video evidence arising from protests in Sydney on Monday 9 February 2026 at Town Hall.

2. That Council affirms that the rights to peaceful protest, freedom of assembly, freedom of belief, and religious observance are fundamental democratic freedoms and essential pillars of social cohesion in a multicultural society. It is important that people within the Inner West community can assemble and peacefully protest, without fear of violence, intimidation or discrimination by state authorities.

3. That Council acknowledges the distress, fear and trauma experienced by community members as a result of the policing of protests in Sydney, including the experiences of Inner West residents who

a) directly experienced police violence,

b) directly witnessed others subjected to police violence,

c) witnessed this indirectly through media

d) and recognises the damaging impact this has had on community trust and social cohesion.

4. That Council recognises the emotional, cultural and intergenerational impacts of heavy-handed policing on communities that already experience a disproportionate burden of state violence and surveillance, including First Nations peoples and Muslim communities, and acknowledges that these impacts extend beyond individual incidents to affect families, cultural safety and long-term community wellbeing.

5. That Council recognises that the targeting or mistreatment of faith-based gatherings regardless of belief poses a serious threat to community harmony, mutual respect, and public confidence in the impartial application of the law.

6. That Council condemns the use of excessive force, intimidation, kettling, and collective punishment tactics by police against protesters, faith groups, observers, and bystanders, noting that such practices escalate tensions and actively undermine social cohesion.

7. That Council expresses grave concern that the policing tactics witnessed resemble authoritarian crowd-control practices rather than the proportionate, rights-respecting policing expected in a democratic society.

8. That Council welcome the decision of the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission to investigate possible serious misconduct by Police at Sydney Town Hall and surrounds on the evening of Monday 9 February 2026.

9. That Council requests that the Mayor write to the Premier conveying Council’s concerns and resolution and requests that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the NSW Police Commissioner, the Minister for Police, and local Members of Parliament.

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: (Howard/Byrne)

1. That Council notes with serious concern reports and video evidence arising from protests in Sydney on Monday 9 February 2026 at Town Hall, including concerns raised by Inner West residents who were present.

2. That Council reaffirms that the rights to peaceful protest, freedom of assembly, freedom of belief and religious observance are fundamental democratic freedoms and essential pillars of social cohesion in a multicultural society.

3. That Council raises concern about the reported policing tactics used at the protest and the disruption of faith-based gatherings, and emphasises the importance of maintaining trust and mutual respect between the New South Wales Police Force and our diverse communities.

4. That Council supports the investigation announced by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission into the policing of the protest, recognising the importance of an independent review so the community can have confidence that policing at protests is conducted in the interests of community safety.

5. That Council forwards this resolution to the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission to convey the concerns of Inner West residents and for its information as part of its investigation into the policing of the protest and notes that the findings of this investigation will be publicly reported to the NSW Parliament at its conclusion.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Scott and Smith

Against Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Macri, Raciti and Tastan

C0326(1) Item 32 Notice of Motion: Establishment of a Gidget House in the Inner West.

Motion: (Tastan/Atkins)

1. That Council acknowledge the importance of supporting expectant and new parents across the Inner West at a time when they are most vulnerable, and recognise the role of existing public, private and community‑based perinatal and infant mental health services operating in the Inner West and broader metropolitan area.

2. That Council note Council officers have had initial discussions with Gidget Foundation Australia in August 2025, at which time they were connected to a local tenancy, however, this was a more of a pop‑up arrangement and did not meet their longer‑term service needs.

3. That Council acknowledge the valuable work of Gidget Foundation Australia and note that, at this time, Council does not have suitable facilities available to offer for this purpose. Council notes that any access to Council‑owned or managed facilities would be subject to Council's existing policies, processes and competitive application frameworks, consistent with those applied to other service providers.

4. That Council acknowledge that the provision and funding of perinatal and infant mental health services is primarily a State and Federal Government responsibility.

5. That Council write to the NSW Minister for Health and Mental Health advocating for increased support for perinatal and infant mental health services in the Inner West, and requesting assistance in identifying appropriate pathways, facilities or funding mechanisms to support organisations such as Gidget Foundation Australia and other service providers operating in this sector.

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

C0326(1) Item 41 Notice of Motion: Request to expand National Active Transport Fund

Motion: (Fergusson/Blake)

1. That Council acknowledges and congratulates the Australian Federal Government on establishing the $100 million National Active Transport Fund as part of the 2024–25 Federal Budget.

2. That Council notes that the Fund covers the period from 2024–25 through to 2028–29, and that as of early 2026, the initial $100 million has been fully utilised on approved projects.

3. That Council writes to the Prime Minister, Hon Anthony Albanese, Treasurer Hon Dr Jim Chalmers, and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport Regional Development and Local Government, Hon Catherine King, requesting consideration in the forthcoming May Federal Budget of additional funding of at least $100 million, to expand the National Active Transport Fund, with specific provision for Local Government projects.

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/Byrne)

That an Urgency motion on Marrickville Timberyards Development be considered at this Council meeting due to building works commencing imminently.

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

Urgency Motion: Marrickville Timberyards Development

Motion: (Howard/Byrne)

1. That Council notes that:

a) The Marrickville Timberyards redevelopment is a major residential project on the former industrial site bounded by Victoria Road, Sydenham Road, Farr Street and Mitchell Street in Marrickville, and located in close proximity to Marrickville Public School

b) The development was approved as a State Significant Development by the NSW Independent Planning Commission under delegation from the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure

c) Increasing housing supply in well-located areas close to public transport is an important part of addressing Sydney’s housing shortage and the project will deliver more than 1,000 dwellings, including build-to-rent and affordable housing

d) Due to the scale of the project and the lengthy construction period, nearby residents and businesses will likely experience impacts including heavy vehicle movements, noise, vibration, dust, traffic disruption, reduced parking and changes to local access.

2. That Council requests Council support nearby residents and businesses and:

a) Bring the developer, certifier and residents together using a Good Neighbour style approach;

b) Write to the developer seeking a written briefing for Councillors on the construction timeline, staging and mitigation measures for surrounding residents and businesses;

c) Request that the developer establish and maintain a clear and accessible community liaison process, including regular updates and a responsive complaints mechanism, and that they regularly communicate with neighbouring residents and businesses about likely impacts;

d) Request the developer meet regularly with Marrickville Public School and act urgently to manage any concerns that arise, particularly if any concerns arise around student safety;

e) Provide a clear point of contact within Council for residents, businesses and the school, who may be seeking assistance with construction-related issues, and ensure complaints are dealt with as a matter of priority, or directed promptly to the appropriate authority where they fall outside Council’s jurisdiction;

f) Ensure Council staff:

i. closely monitor impacts for residents, businesses and the school that fall within Council’s jurisdiction during construction, including local traffic management, environmental health matters, parking, pedestrian and cyclist safety and impacts to the public domain

ii. Monitor compliance with relevant approvals and conditions where they intersect with Council responsibilities, and take appropriate regulatory action where breaches occur.

iii. Monitor and respond to any impacts on Council infrastructure, including local streets, footpaths, drainage, street trees and other public assets arising from construction activity.

3. That Council keep Councillors informed of any significant community concerns or emerging issues during the construction period and provide updates via councillor briefing note every two months.

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/Byrne)

That an Urgency motion on Draft parking policy and strategy be considered at this Council meeting in order to extend the consultation period which expires prior to the next 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

Urgency Motion: Draft Parking Policy and Strategy

Motion: (Howard/Byrne)

1. That Council note community calls to extend the public exhibition for the Draft Parking Policy and Draft Parking Strategy.

2. That Council extend the public exhibition for both documents until 30 April 2026.

3. That Council hold at least one public information session, organised by Council, where residents can receive information about the proposed changes and ask questions of staff.

4. That Council include information about the public exhibition in the Inner West Community News and other channels, with a link to information on the Council website in both plain English and community languages, and also informing residents about information sessions.

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 10.02pm.

Unconfirmed minutes from the Ordinary Council meeting held on 17 March 2026.