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AGENDA R |
Council Meeting
TUESDAY 21 APRIL 2026
7:30 PM
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
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. 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.
Accessibility
Inner West Council is committed to ensuring people with a disability have equal opportunity to take part in Council and Committee Meetings. At the Council Chambers at Ashfield, there is a hearing loop service available to assist persons with a hearing impairment. If you have any other access or disability related participation needs and wish to know more, call 9392 5536.
Persons in the public gallery are advised that under the Local Government Act 1993, a person may NOT record a Council meeting without the permission of Council.
Any persons found recording without authority will be expelled from the meeting.
“Record” includes the use of any form of audio, video and still camera equipment or mobile phone capable of recording speech.
An audio recording of this meeting will be taken for the purpose of verifying the accuracy of the minutes.
Statement of Ethical Obligations
The Mayor and Councillors are bound by the Oath/ Affirmation of Office made at the start of the Council term to undertake their civic duties in the best interests of the people of the Inner West Council and to faithfully and impartially carry out the functions, powers, authorities and discretions vested in them under the Local Government Act or any other Act, to the best of their skill and judgement.
It is also a requirement that the Mayor and Councillors disclose conflicts of interest in relation to items listed for consideration on the Agenda or which are considered at this meeting in accordance with Council’s Code of Conduct and Code of Meeting Practice.
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
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AGENDA |
1 Acknowledgement of Country
2 Apologies and Request for Remote Attendance
3 Statement of Ethical Obligations
4 Disclosures of Interest (Part 4 (Pecuniary Interests) and Part 5 (non-pecuniary conflicts of interest) of Council’s Code of Conduct)
5 Moment of Quiet Contemplation
6 Confirmation of Minutes Page
Minutes of 17 March 2026 Council 6
7 Condolence Motions
Nil at the time of printing.
8 Mayoral Minutes
Nil at the time of printing.
9 Reports for Council Decision
ITEM Page
C0426(1) Item 1 Delivery Program 2025-29 (Year 2), Operational Plan and Budget 2026/27 and Long Term Financial Plan 2026-36 - Drafts for Public Exhibition 33
C0426(1) Item 2 Building Our Community Update 354
C0426(1) Item 3 Bi-monthly Omnibus Planning Report 387
C0426(1) Item 4 Business Facade Improvement Grant Program 392
C0426(1) Item 5 Christmas in the Inner West 396
C0426(1) Item 6 In-road tree planting St Marys Street Camperdown – Consultation outcomes 403
C0426(1) Item 7 Local Transport Forum Meeting - 16 March 2026 409
C0426(1) Item 8 Post Exhibition - Land Classification - 3-7 Regent Street, Petersham 424
C0426(1) Item 9 Post Exhibition - Lackey Street, Summer Hill improvements 432
C0426(1) Item 10 Post Exhibition - Pocket and Neighbourhood Parks Plan of Management 437
C0426(1) Item 11 Australia Street Parklets 444
C0426(1) Item 12 Steel Park Companion Animal Off Leash Area 448
C0426(1) Item 13 Stanmore Library - New Community and Public Space 453
C0426(1) Item 14 Post Exhibition - Complaints Handling Policy 461
C0426(1) Item 15 Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee - 26 November 2025 Minutes 490
10 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
C0426(1) Item 16 Legal Status Update 502
C0426(1) Item 17 Fuel Continuity Plan 504
C0426(1) Item 18 Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre Upgrade - Project Status Update 506
C0426(1) Item 19 Leichhardt Oval Refurbishment - Construction Works Expression of Interest 509
11 Reports for Noting
ITEM Page
C0426(1) Item 20 Leichhardt Oval Refurbishment - Project Status Update 511
C0426(1) Item 21 Mandatory Reporting to Council of Reports Received from Fire & Rescue NSW for 6 Properties 515
C0426(1) Item 22 Public Tree Planting Awareness and Engagement Program 544
C0426(1) Item 23 Our Backyard River Campaign 549
C0426(1) Item 24 Street Cleansing Service Update 553
C0426(1) Item 25 Junior Parkrun in the Inner West 557
C0426(1) Item 26 Expansion of Senior's Morning Teas 560
C0426(1) Item 27 Investment Report at 28 February 2026 562
12 Notices of Motion
ITEM Page
C0426(1) Item 28 Notice of Motion: Partnership to Deliver King Street Crawl and Summer 618
C0426(1) Item 29 Notice of Motion: Parramatta Road Corridor – State led rezoning 620
C0426(1) Item 30 Notice of Motion: Greening Jesmond Avenue 622
C0426(1) Item 31 Notice of Motion: New Inner West Council Limited Time Parking Schemes 624
C0426(1) Item 32 Notice of Motion: Local Tradies Live & Work Parking Permits 625
C0426(1) Item 33 Notice of Motion: Supporting Inner West Residents in the Global Sumud Flotilla 627
C0426(1) Item 34 Notice of Motion: Victoria Road Underbridge Safety 629
C0426(1) Item 35 Notice of Motion: Charlotte Street Pedestrian Safety 631
C0426(1) Item 36 Notice of Motion: Heating the Annandale Community Centre 633
C0426(1) Item 37 Notice of Motion: Pedestrian Crossings at Norton Street and William Street intersection, Leichhardt 634
C0426(1) Item 38 Notice of Motion: Centenary Park cricket net upgrades 636
C0426(1) Item 39 Notice of Motion: South Dulwich Hill Traffic Review 637
C0426(1) Item 40 Notice of Motion: Support for Addi Road 50th Anniversary 638
C0426(1) Item 41 Notice of Motion: Transitioning to Independence from Vehicle Ownership 639
C0426(1) Item 42 Notice of Motion: Expanding FOGO to Multi-Unit Dwellings 641
C0426(1) Item 43 Notice of Motion: Metro Activations in Marrickville and Dulwich Hill 643
C0426(1) Item 44 Notice of Motion: Concordia Club Carpark 645
C0426(1) Item 45 Notice of Motion: Supporting LGBTQ+ Businesses in the Inner West 647
C0426(1) Item 46 Notice of Motion: Pride Centre Activations 649
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Minutes of Ordinary Council Meeting held on 17 March 2026 at Ashfield Service Centre
Meeting commenced at 7.34pm
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Present: |
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Darcy Byrne Chloe Smith Izabella Antoniou Liz Atkins Olivia Barlow Andrew Blake Jo Carlisle Vicki Clay Jessica D’Arienzo Kerrie Fergusson Mat Howard Victor Macri Vittoria Raciti Philippa Scott Ismet Tastan Simone Plummer |
Mayor Deputy Mayor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor General Manager Director Planning |
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Ruth Callaghan |
Director Community |
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Sharon Bowman Peter Shields Ryann Midei Matthew Pearce 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 |
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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 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
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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 |
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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
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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
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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 |
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That Council receive and note the report.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan Against Motion: Nil |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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C0326(1) Item 1 Public Exhibition - Draft Great Inner West Walk Study |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
Councillor Raciti left the Meeting at 8:23 pm.
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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.
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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
Councillor Scott returned to the Meeting at 8:50 pm.
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.
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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.
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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.
Councillor Antoniou returned to the Meeting at 9:19 pm.
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.
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Delivery Program 2025-29 (Year 2), Operational Plan and Budget 2026/27 and Long Term Financial Plan 2026-36 - Drafts for Public Exhibition
Prepared By: Sharon Bowman - Director Corporate
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RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council note the draft Operational Plan 2026/27 contains 184 Actions and 122 Key Performance Measures that will be used to track Council’s performance in delivering the Plan.
2. That Council note the Draft Budget 2026/27: a) Forecasts a surplus of $4.6m b) Provides for $164.7m capital expenditure on a range of renewal and expansion projects c) Includes $4.98m in savings (1.6% of budget) from the Financially Sustainable Service Delivery program, in line with Council’s resolution from February 2026
3. That Council note that scenario 1 of the Draft Long Term Financial Plan, used in the Draft Budget 2026/27: a) Returns surpluses over the 10 years, accumulating to $68m; sufficient to ensure Council’s financial sustainability while providing for ‘budget shocks’ b) Key performance measures exceeding benchmarks for the full 10 years
4. That Council endorse the following draft plans to be placed on public exhibition for 28 days: a) Draft Delivery Program 2025-29 (Year 2), Operational Plan and Budget 2026/27 (including Fees and Charges 2026/27); and b) Draft Long Term Financial Plan 2026-36.
5. That Council receive a report on the public exhibition outcomes and the final draft plans for adoption at the June 2026 Council meeting.
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
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5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report presents key strategic plans which are part of the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework (IP&R) for Council’s consideration.
The following plans are presented for Council’s endorsement to be placed on public exhibition, as required under the Local Government Act:
· Delivery Program 2025-29 (year 2) and Operational Plan and Budget 2026/27, including Fees and Charges 2026/27
· Long Term Financial Plan 2026-36 (LTFP)
The public exhibition is planned to commence on Friday 24 April 2026 and close on Sunday 24 May 2026. The documents will be displayed at:
· Council’s Service Centres – Ashfield, Leichhardt and Petersham
· Council’s Libraries – Balmain, Dulwich Hill, Haberfield, Leichhardt, Marrickville, St Peters and Stanmore
· Online at Your Say Inner West, Council’s engagement website
(yoursay.innerwest.nsw.gov.au)
The public exhibition will be widely promoted and the community will have the opportunity to provide submissions by mail, email, phone, online or in person at Council’s service centres.
Following the exhibition period, the plans will be revised in line with feedback received and any additional changes required following the Quarter 3 Budget Review, and brought back to Council for adoption.
BACKGROUND
Under the Local Government Act 1993, councils are required to develop a suite of plans as part of the Integrated Planning and Reporting (IP&R) Framework. The IP&R Framework is a rigorous and consistent system of community planning across all NSW local councils which also takes into consideration State and regional priorities. The Framework assists councils in delivering their community’s vision through long-, medium- and short-term plans.
DISCUSSION
Delivery Program and Operational Plan
In June 2025, Council adopted its Delivery Program and Operational Plan (DPOP) 2025-2029. The Delivery Program sets out Council’s commitment to achieving the outcomes and strategies of the Community Strategic Plan and the initiatives that Council will undertake during its term of office. The Operational Plan is an annual plan containing detailed actions and performance measures for the year, along with the Statement of Revenue Policy (including annual budget).
Outcomes, actions and performance measures
The Delivery Program 2025-29 (Year 2) and Operational Plan 2026/27 (see Attachment 1: Draft DPOP 2026-27 for Public Exhibition) updates the previous DPOP for the second financial year of the term. This document contains 109 Principal Activities in the Delivery Program, 184 actions in the Operational Plan and 122 Key Performance Measures that will be used to track Council’s performance.
It also contains the adopted Council priorities which will be operationalised and tracked throughout the term of Council.
Council’s progress in delivering the actions and achieving the measures will be monitored through quarterly progress reports and Annual Reports to Council.
Draft Budget 2026/27
Section three of the plan provides details about the Draft Budget for 2026/27 (and includes 4 year budget to 2029/30).
In 2026/27, Council is budgeting total income before grants and contributions of $310.9m, operating grants of $12m and expenses of $318.3m resulting in a surplus of $4.6m, or 1.4% of total expenditure. This surplus provides capacity for Council to absorb ‘budget shocks’ that may arise throughout the year.
The key drivers of the draft budget include:
· Maintenance of existing level of service to the community
· Adequate budget provided for the maintenance of facilities under Council’s control
· The NSW Government (through the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal, IPART) set the 2026/27 rate peg for Inner West Council at 4.4%
· Other Fees and Charges for 2026/27 are indexed at the CPI of 3.6% unless stated otherwise
· Salaries and wages are estimated to increase by 4.0%, as Council awaits the determination of the updated State Award
· Savings of almost $5m identified via the Financially Sustainable Service Delivery (FSSD) program
o At its February meeting, Council noted the $3.43m in operating budget savings identified by the program for 2026/27 and requested Executive to identify further savings at least equivalent to an additional 0.5% of the budget prior to presenting the draft budget to this meeting.
o An additional $1.55m in savings has been identified, with a total of $4.98m in savings included in the draft 2026/27 budget
o This represents 1.6% of the previously adopted 2026/27 budget
· Funding Council Priorities over the four-year operating budget and capital works program.
· Capital works program focused on reduction of Council’s infrastructure backlog within resource capacity
· Increased depreciation provision to support higher renewal costs and factor in newly constructed assets
Over the next four years, Council is budgeting surpluses, after expenses and revenue are stabilised:
o 2026/27 $4.6m surplus (1.4% of total expenses)
o 2027/28 $6.4m surplus (1.9% of total expenses)
o 2028/29 $5.9m surplus (1.8% of total expenses)
o 2029/30 $7.4m surplus (2.1% of total expenses)
Providing surpluses is considered to be financially prudent, as it provides a buffer to deal with any ‘budget shocks’ (unanticipated expenses) that may arise over the period, allowing Council to remain in surplus despite these challenges.
Below is a summary of how Council has budgeted to spend rates and other income in 2026/27 for every $100 received.
In 2026/27, Council is budgeting to spend $164.7m on capital expenditure. This includes nearly $100m provided for the renewal of Council’s infrastructure assets, along with a number of expansion projects. Major projects budgeted for the year include:
· Leichhardt Oval commencement
· Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre Stage 2
· Callan Park All Weather Sporting Field
· Camperdown Park sporting ground and inclusive playground
· Steel Park amenities and inclusive playground
· Cooks River Lighting
· Aboriginal Community Hub Camperdown
· Marrickville and Petersham Town Hall refurbishment
· Sydenham Road revitalisation
Budgeted capital expenditure over the next four years is:
o 2026/27 $164.7m
o 2027/28 $103.4m
o 2028/29 $68.2m
o 2029/30 $65.1m
Draft Fees and Charges
The draft Fees & Charges for 2026/27 is an appendix to the plan, see Attachment 2: Draft 2026-27 Fees and Charges for Public Exhibition. This document classifies Fees & Charges under Council’s directorates and service units.
The Fees and Charges have provided for a general increase of 3.6%, equivalent to the estimated CPI. Some fees have varied from the standard increase due to:
· Statutory or regulated fees being as determined
· Consideration of factors such as community benefits and costs of providing services
Attachment 3: 2026-27 Fees and Charges Change Log lists new or deleted fees and charges, changes of wording or where there is an increase/decrease of more than 5%. An explanation is provided for each of these changes.
Long Term Financial Plan 2026-36
In accordance with the IP&R guidelines, the LTFP is required to include:
· projected income and expenditure, balance sheet and cash flow statement for a ten-year budget forecast
· planning assumptions
· sensitivity analysis, highlighting factors and assumptions most likely to impact the LTFP
· financial modelling for different scenarios
· methods of monitoring financial performance
· major capital and operational expenditure implications.
The draft Long Term Financial Plan for 2026-36 (see Attachment 4: Draft Long Term Financial Plan 2026-2036 for Public Exhibition) sets out two scenarios:
· Scenario 1 – Business as Usual, maintain existing service levels: In this scenario, Council continues to operate at the existing service levels to the community, maintain the existing levels of investment in infrastructure renewal, and deliver the major projects set out in the 2026/27 budget. It provides for Council’s financial sustainability by ensuring there are funds available to deliver infrastructure and services to the community. Over the life of the LTFP, the surplus accumulates to $68m.
· Scenario 2 – Addresses the Infrastructure Asset Renewal Backlog: In this alternative scenario, Council continues to provide its services to the community as per scenario 1 with the addition of a process to reduce the current infrastructure backlog of $26.9m from the 2024/25 financial statements over the course of the LTFP. To address this backlog would require using most of Council’s working funds, leaving us with insufficient financial capacity, and as such is not recommended.
Accordingly, Scenario 1 is recommended and used in the 2026/27 Budget. Key highlights of this scenario include:
· Surpluses over the 10 years, sufficient to provide for unanticipated ‘budget shocks’
· Key performance measures, including the Unrestricted Current Ratio, Debt Service Ratio and Infrastructure Backlog Ratio all exceeding their performance benchmarks for the full ten years.
Endorsement for Public Exhibition
Under the Local Government Act, the draft documents are required to be publicly exhibited for a minimum of 28 days. The draft documents will be available for viewing at Council’s service centres, libraries and online at Your Say Inner West. The public exhibition will be promoted through Council’s communication channels, including social media.
Following public exhibition, all community comments will be analysed, and adjustments made to the draft documents if required for the elected Council’s consideration. Community input and final drafts will be reported to Council at its meeting in June 2026.
LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS
There are no legal and risk implications associated with this report.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
Council’s commitments in the Delivery Program and Operational Plan are resourced as outlined in annual budgets and forecast in the Long Term Financial Plan.
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1.⇩ |
Draft DPOP 2026-27 for Public Exhibition |
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2.⇩ |
Draft 2026-27 Fees and Charges for Public Exhibition |
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3.⇩ |
2026-27 Fees and Charges Change Log |
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4.⇩ |
Draft Long Term Financial Plan 2026-2036 for Public Exhibition |
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Building Our Community Update
Prepared By: Peter Shields - Acting Director Property and Major Projects
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RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council receives and notes the Engagement Outcomes Report for the first phase of Building Our Community.
2. That Council endorses the proposed program of engagement, with a combined Local Democracy Group, Deliberative Forum, door knocking and supporting communications campaign completed by October 2026, and the public exhibition of the Infrastructure Delivery Plan and Development Contribution Plan completed by December 2026.
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
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2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport |
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report provides a summary of the community engagement undertaken as part of the first phase of Building our Community and outlines next steps in both engagement and the development of the Infrastructure Delivery Plan and Development Contributions Plan.
From November 2025 to March 2026, Council undertook both online and in-person engagement activities to better understand infrastructure priorities of the community. The Engagement Outcomes Report for Phase One is attached.
This was the first phase of a year-long engagement project. The results from the first phase will be further refined in two group settings and used to develop the Infrastructure Delivery Plan and the Development Contributions Plan. Feedback will also be used to inform other Council projects and plans, and Council’s State Government advocacy priorities.
Public exhibition of the IDP and DCP will begin in November. Community engagement and a supporting communications strategy will continue throughout the entire process.
BACKGROUND
At the Council Meeting held on 30 September 2025, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council commence a review of the Inner West Developer Contributions Plan and develop a prioritised a plan for community infrastructure to be funded by developer contributions: the Building Our Community Plan.
2. That the Director Property and Major Projects take responsibility for developing the Building our Community Plan and report it to each Major Capital Projects Committee and thereafter to Council.
3. That the Senior Manager, Communications and Engagement, take responsibility for developing a communications and engagement plan for the Building our Community Plan and report it to each Major Capital Projects Committee and thereafter to Council.
4. That the initial phase of the communications and engagement plan be focussed on the prioritisation of projects and include doorknocking, community information sessions, street stalls, online surveys and advertising, weighted towards the sections of the community that are receiving the most uplift in housing young people and renters.
5. That Council form a Deliberative Democracy Group, following the principles of selection of random members from the Inner West Community, to discuss and provide feedback on the prioritisation of projects in the Building Our Community Plan.
6. That the Director Property and Major Projects and Senior Manager, Communications and Engagement each provide and initial report to the February 2026 Council meeting, including a timeline for the remainder of the engagement and development of the full Building Our Community Plan.
In November, an extensive, LGA-wide community engagement was launched seeking to understand community infrastructure priorities.
At the Council meeting held on 17 February 2026, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council receive and note the report which provides a program for engagement and development of the Building Our Community Plan.
2. That the engagement outcomes report and draft Inner West Infrastructure Delivery Plan (IDP) be developed and shared with Council at the April 2026 meeting.
3. That Council staff include in the April report the entire program of engagement and include continued doorknocking in phases two and three.
DISCUSSION
From November 2025 to March 2026, Council undertook both online and in-person engagement activities to better understand the community’s priorities for local infrastructure.
In consultation with Council Officers, infrastructure projects were grouped into nine categories:
1. Community buildings
2. Cycleway
3. Drainage systems
4. Parks and playgrounds
5. Pedestrian-friendly zones
6. Pedestrian safety and accessibility
7. Places for recreation
8. Town centres and public areas
9. Traffic calming measures
Over four months, over 2000 people provided feedback via online tools, community pop-ups, emails and door knocking. This included:
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Engagement method |
Stakeholders engaged |
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Online Points Allocator |
554 participants |
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Online Map |
1,883 pins placed on the online map |
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State Advocacy Survey |
277 responses |
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In person activity |
1,053 community members took part in the coin allocator activity |
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Doorknocking |
241 properties visited with 49 completing the activity |
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Direct contact from residents |
58 emails from individuals |
Two new interactive engagement methods were trialed:
· In-person coin allocator activity where participants were given five coins to allocate across nine boxes. They could choose to put multiple in one or spread them out across five, but they would have to choose some that didn’t get their support. This activity was also adapted into a similar tool that was used during door knocking.
· Online points allocator tool where participants were able to allocate 100 points across the nine categories. This allowed them to assign weighting to different infrastructure projects based on how important they were to them.
These proved to be very popular feedback methods with the community, encouraging discussion about value placed on certain projects and showing any categories people felt were not a priority. They should be considered as alternatives to prioritization surveys for future engagement projects.
Other engagement methods included a map where people could drop specific local project ideas, a free text box to share State Government advocacy projects, email and door knocking. Doorknocking targeted areas with high uplift, to supplement the communications they would have already received (including council Newsletters and targeted social media) and in-person sessions.
As the project ran over the summer, pop-up locations were chosen based on high traffic areas and included Council Aquatics Centres.
The results show the success of this high-energy, creative engagement period. Building Our Community has received the most comments ever of any Council community engagement project. We successfully trialed new consultation methods and received positive community feedback about them.
What we heard
An Engagement Outcomes Report can be found in Attachment 1, including a detailed breakdown of the results in the appendix.
The top infrastructure priorities across the different engagement methods were improving pedestrian safety and accessibility, new cycleways, and upgrades to parks and public spaces.
Key comments received were requests for separated cycleways, traffic-calming measures to reduce speeding, and more safe pedestrian crossings. Park and playground improvements, shade, greenery and upgrades to recreation facilities were also mentioned throughout.
Respondents want Council to advocate to the State Government to improve public transport, active transport, roads and streetscapes. Overall, the community wants safer movement, greener spaces and more connected, people-focused neighbourhoods.
In the initial review of feedback, 1,937 infrastructure issues have been identified. These have been triaged into four categories:
a) Business as usual (187) Items that could be dealt with as part of Council’s usual functions, such as tree-trimming, verge clearing, graffiti and waste removal (short-term actions).
b) Internal Referrals (1,571) Items that should be reviewed by staff to determine whether such works are already planned (Medium-term actions), or whether the suggestions have merits to proceed (Longer-term actions).
c) State Advocacy Suggestions (35) Suggested advocacy projects to State Agencies.
d) Council Policy Feedback (144) Suggested infrastructure planning principles or LGA-wide policies related to infrastructure funding and delivery.
Infrastructure Delivery Plan & Contribution Plan
The Infrastructure Delivery Plan (IDP) and Contribution Plan (CP) focus on infrastructure planning, sequencing, staging and funding to support the envisioned growth in Council’s Local Environmental Plan.
In NSW, the IDP and CP have two separate functions:
· Infrastructure Delivery Plan is a strategic level document that examines growth across the LGA and outlines what infrastructure is needed and when. It can focus on state and regional infrastructure (not just local), and other types of infrastructure (such as biodiversity, waste) that are not able to be incorporated in contribution plans. It is a strategic infrastructure planning advocacy policy document; it is not a statutory charging mechanism (i.e. it cannot impose any fees).
· Development Contribution Plan is a formal legal instrument under sections 7.11 and 7.12 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act), it ensures development pays a charge for the increased demand it creates on local roads, parks, community facilities and drainage.
The State and local planning policy context has changed substantially since the Inner West Local Infrastructure Contribution Plan 2023 was implemented on 20 February 2023. The NSW Government announced a suite of reforms to fast-track development in the state including Transport Orientated Development (TOD) and Low and Med-Rise housing (LMR) housing policies. These reforms focus development in well-located areas near good public transport and town centres. Council’s alternative Our Fairer Future Plan included a social infrastructure needs study and strategic transport plan that examined the changing infrastructure needs of the housing investigation areas. The outcomes of these studies will be incorporated into the draft Infrastructure Delivery Plan and draft Contribution Plan.
On 26 February 2026, the NSW Government published its first Infrastructure Opportunity Plan for Greater Sydney that outlines State infrastructure projects where State Contributions revenue will be spent over the next 5-10 years. This is a policy document that will be reviewed annually by the Department of the Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) and will be considered as part of the draft of the Inner West Infrastructure Delivery Plan, with outcomes to be conveyed to the DPHI team.
Next steps
The report to the February Council Meeting proposed a three-phase engagement strategy:
· Phase one: initial prioritisation of infrastructure and promotion of Building Our Community.
· Phase two: further refining of priorities through a combined Local Democracy Group and Deliberative Forum.
· Phase three: public exhibition of the Infrastructure Development Plan and Development Contributions Plan.
Phase two: April to October 2026
A combined Local Democracy Group is planned for May. This will be a chance for all LDGs to come together and further refine the community feedback received in phase one. The event will be run by council officers with table work facilitated by LDG convenors.
A Deliberative Forum is planned for June. Council Officers are currently developing the RFQ to tender for a third-party to recruit and facilitate the event. Up to 100 randomly selected community members will be recruited to ensure participants represent a diverse cross section of the community including people from different demographics and wards. The event will be held on a weekend and run for no more than four hours, with Council Officers supporting the facilitation of activities.
The feedback from the Deliberative Forum will be reported alongside the draft Infrastructure Delivery Plan and Contribution Plan to the Council Meeting in October 2026. Other changes to Council’s Community Strategic Plan, long-term financial plan, and capital works operational and delivery plans may also be considered at this time.
Doorknocking and a supporting communications campaign will be scheduled to continue to raise awareness of Building Our Community, and encourage people to sign up to Your Say Inner West to receive updates about the next steps including upcoming public exhibition. This will maintain community interest in infrastructure priorities while the draft Plans are being developed. It is proposed that doorknocking be a shared responsibility between customer service, engagement and project teams.
Phase three: October to December 2026
The two main documents informed by the Building Our Community consultation will be the Infrastructure Delivery Plan and Development Contribution Plan. These will be reported to the October Council Meeting.
Community engagement for both Plans will include public exhibition, community information sessions, paid social media advertising and email and newsletter updates. Doorknocking will be carried out by project teams with support from community engagement officers.
Public exhibition is scheduled for Nov – Dec 2026, with post-exhibition reporting in Q1 2027.
LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS
There are no legal and risk implications associated with this report.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
The Deliberative Forum has a budget of $62,000. This is already allocated in the Communications and Engagement annual budget. It is expected to not exceed that cost.
Additional engagement activities including door knocking, information sessions, small-run of additional printing and other collateral will be covered by the Communications and Major Projects budgets.
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1.⇩ |
Building Our Community Engagement Outcomes Report |
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2.⇩ |
Building Our Community Engagement Outcomes Report Appendix |
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Bi-monthly Omnibus Planning Report
Prepared By: Simone Plummer - Director Planning
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RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council endorse the delivery of Our Fairer Future Plan Stage 2 to a September 2026 meeting.
2. That Council submit early engagement submissions to Department of Planning Housing and Infrastructure to inform the creation of the State led plans.
3. That Council request the State Government to invite Council’s City Architect to be part of the International Design Competition Jury for the Bays West Precinct.
4. That Council notes the draft King Street Special Entertainment Precinct planning proposal will be received in June 2026 for exhibition.
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
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2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport 4: Healthy, resilient and caring communities |
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report provides Council with a bi‑monthly omnibus update on the implementation of Our Fairer Future Plan and associated planning initiatives that support housing delivery, affordability, and liveable communities across the Inner West. It summarises progress against relevant Council resolutions, identifies key inter-agency dependencies (including work led by the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) and Transport for NSW), and outlines the next decision points and reporting timeframes for Council consideration.
Key matters covered in this update include:
· Our Fairer Future Stage 2 program and procurement outcomes, including the intention to proceed with a revised reporting to the September 2026 Council meeting.
· Parramatta Road Corridor State-led Rezoning early engagement (exhibited 25 February–6 April 2026), next steps for submission of feedback to DPHI, and indicative timeframes for draft exhibition (likely September 2026) and finalisation (early 2027).
· Bays West Precinct master planning updates, including DPHI’s announced delivery arrangements and international design competition, and the proposed request for Council’s City Architect to participate in the competition jury.
· King Street Special Entertainment Precinct coordination with the City of Sydney, including policy alignment work and the intention to report a planning proposal to both councils in June 2026.
· Related items noted for context only: the draft Inner West Affordable Housing Policy and draft Inner West Development Control Plan are being reported to Council separately and will no longer be tracked through the omnibus update. Our Fairer Future Stage 1 will be further reported upon any defining actions or advice received from DPHI.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 17 February 2026, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council continue to advocate for a fast-track assessment process from the Department of Planning Housing and Infrastructure to progress Our Fairer Future Plan Phase 1.
2. That Council prepares Stage 2 of Our Fairer Future to be limited to the following investigation areas:
a) Croydon/Iron Cove precinct
b) Site Specific Investigation Areas as outlined in Attachment 1 of the February 2026 report
c) Remaining areas identified through the low and mid-rise housing reforms as identified by Department of Planning (Annandale town centre (Booth Street), Lilyfield light rail station, Petersham station, St Peters station, Stanmore station)
Lewisham station
d) Any land owned by Homes NSW within the LGA for potential rezoning opportunities, with a focus on delivering increased social and affordable housing outcomes.
3. That the draft Stage 2 of Our Fairer Future be reported to the June 2026 Council meeting.
4. That the draft Affordable Housing Policy for community consultation be reported to the April 2026 council meeting.
5. That Council endorse the commencement of early online consultation for the Parramatta Road Corridor State Led rezoning in February 2026 for at least 28 days.
6. That the Inner West Development Control Plan be reported to the April 2026 council meeting.
At the Council meeting held on 9 December 2025, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council receive and note the report.
3. That Council during this process advocate to the DPHI for their analysis to include:
a) An investigation of feasibility for 20% affordable housing contribution for any additional proposed floor space beyond the baseline provision in upzoned area.
This report provides an update on the Council resolutions relating to the matters identified in the minutes.
DISCUSSION
Implementation of Our Fairer Future Plan (Stage 1)
Ongoing consideration of Our Fairer Future Plan Stage 1 is underway by the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure.
Implementation of Our Fairer Future Plan (Stage 2)
At the 17 February 2026 Council resolved Our Fairer Future Plan Stage 2 be reported back at the June 2026 Council Meeting. In order to understand the implications of the timeframe in the Council resolution, the procurement processes for flood, heritage, feasibility and urban design requested programs, pricing and opportunities/constraints for a September and a June (fast-tracked) timeline.
Quotations for flood and feasibility identified significant constraints on methodology in order to achieve the fast-tracked approach. By way of example, the fast track timeline would only facilitate one round of flood risk testing. Learnings from Our Fairer Future Plan Stage 1 identified this was not always sufficient to achieve certainty for delivery of new homes. In some instances, one round of testing could not resolve the flood risk. These sites are included in Stage 2 for revisiting and if they are able to be resolved, they will require detailed engineering solutions.
Due to timelines, heritage was another exclusion from Stage 1, specifically in Leichhardt, Petersham, Stanmore and Lewisham. Expert advice relating to Stage 2 timelines identified there was no opportunity to undertake the necessary assessments to conclusively identify change to items or areas in the fast-track program.
In relation to urban design, the fast-track program required delivery of a draft Masterplan within seven weeks. This offers limited opportunity to test and validate all aspects against other technical requirements.
A summary of assumptions/constraints raised by consultants in their proposals for the fast-track program are noted below:
· Limited or no site visits would be undertaken
· Sub-precincts would be determined by general characteristics of the area, not site specific
· Analysis and scenario testing will be desktop-based only, using available data
· The masterplan will provide a high‑level strategic framework, not detailed, site-specific outcomes
· Built form testing would focus on typology-level testing only, not precinct or site-specific testing
· Iterative design will be limited and based on pre-determined assumptions
· Technical input only allowed once (flooding)– whereas an iterative process was required for Stage 1.
· Controls to be applied at a general, precinct-wide level (blanket approach), rather than fine-grain, site-specific controls
· Heritage assessment of properties cannot be undertaken
· One final version only for each deliverable (no draft and final iterations)
· Compressed Council review period (ranged from 1-3 days instead of one week) with one consultant requiring input, review, and decision-making to occur on the spot through workshops rather than a joint consideration of issues between the consultant and officers.
After reviewing the proposals provided by technical experts September is the preferred program to deliver Our Fairer Future Stage 2.
Homes NSW
Homes NSW have provided Council a list of sites they wish to be investigated as part of Our Fairer Future Stage 2, and these will be investigated through the master planning process.
Parramatta Road Corridor State-led Rezoning (SLR)
At the Council Meeting held on 23 September 2025, Council resolved the following in part.
1. That Council seek a partnership with the NSW Government to undertake further residential rezoning of the Parramatta Road corridor, with the aim of delivering up to 8000 new homes in the section of the corridor within the Inner West local government area.
b) The planning process should also include early comprehensive community consultation, including with landowners, consideration of transport, public domain improvements, open space, not-for-profit housing, commercial and retail opportunities, and improvements to the streetscape.
In response to this resolution, Council on behalf of DPHI, has completed the Early Engagement for the State-led Rezoning, which was exhibited initially for 28 days from 25 February 2026 and then extended by an additional two weeks to close 6 April 2026. The following engagement activities were undertaken:
· Advertisement in the Inner West Newsletter February 2026
· A unique Your Say Inner West Page (https://yoursay.innerwest.nsw.gov.au/parramatta-road-corridor-state-led-rezoning-early-engagement ) page that included:
o Key Project details and background
o Frequently asked questions
o Project Stages
o Survey
A report to Council will be provided following analysis of the engagement outcomes and this will then be provided to DPHI to help inform the development of the State-led plans.
DPHI have completed the procurement of consultants to undertake the following studies:
· Infrastructure Delivery Plan
· Biodiversity
· Economic assessment and affordable housing
· Flooding
· Contamination
· Connecting with Country
· Urban design
· Transport is being undertaken in-house by TfNSW.
On the ground site analysis was undertaken 17 February 2026 by DPHI in conjunction with the Government Architects NSW (GANSW), TfNSW, Council officers and consultants undertaking studies for Infrastructure Delivery and Economic Feasibility. A high-level constraints analysis has been undertaken by Government Architects (NSWGA) which will underpin the analysis being undertaken by technical experts.
The project remains on track against the indicative timeframes provided by DPHI:
· A draft plan for exhibition likely to be September 2026 (undertaken by DPHI with input from Council)
· Final Plan adoption – Early 2027 (undertaken by DPHI with input from Council)
Review of Inner West Affordable Housing Policy
The draft Inner West Affordable Housing Policy is the subject of separate reporting and will no longer be reported through the Omnibus update.
Bays West Precinct master planning
On 2 March 2026, DPHI released an updated project overview for the Bays West Precinct that provides an overview of the Precinct’s strategic direction that aims to deliver between 7,000 - 8,500 new homes, with at least 700 being affordable housing. DPHI has undertaken investigations which have led to the following key moves to maximise residential development:
· An active transport link across the Glebe Island Bridge.
· Glebe Island will transition from bulk port operations to a vibrant community and the Glebe Island Silos removed.
· Working harbour operations across the precinct will be consolidated on land at White Bay, including the cruise liner terminal, boat maintenance, marine constructions and as a base for tugboats and emergency services.
On 3 March 2026, a Ministerial press release was published stating:
· A new delivery authority will be established reporting to Stephen Kamper, Minister for Lands,
· The Government will lead a master planning process that will include an International Design Competition
· That the master planning process will include an international design competition to guide development across the precinct.
Considering the announcement that there will be an International Design Competition, it is recommended Council request that the Inner West City Architect be part of the competition Jury. This will ensure local knowledge and priorities are integrated into the development of the Precinct.
Preparation of draft Inner West Development Control Plan
The draft Inner West DCP is the subject of separate reporting and will no longer be reported through the Omnibus update.
Preparation of King Street Special Entertainment Precinct
Inner West and City of Sydney Strategic Planning staff continue to meet on a weekly basis and work towards a consistent policy approach for the King Street SEP. As Inner West’s established approach to trading hours and the acoustic framework varies from the City of Sydney’s intended LGA wide approach, the two organisations are working together to align the policy to the satisfaction of both Council’s. It is planned to report a Planning Proposal to both Inner West and City of Sydney Council’s in June 2026 to enable engagement with properties inside the SEP to occur simultaneously.
LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS
There are no legal and risk implications associated with this report.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There is sufficient budget allocation in the Strategic Planning budget to accommodate both current and next Financial Year commitments.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Business Facade Improvement Grant Program
Prepared By: Simone Plummer - Director Planning
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council approve the grant recommendations for the Business Façade Improvement Grant Program as follows; a) Embellish Atelier located on Victoria Road, Rozelle - Baludarri Ward; b) Café The Beans located on Marrickville Road, Dulwich Hill - Djarrawunang Ward; c) James Bouzios & Associates, Universal Finance on Illawarra Road near Marrickville Metro Station - Midjuburi Ward; d) Hearthland café located on Douglas Street, Stanmore - Damun Ward; and e) Georgia Draws a House on Parramatta Road, Annandale - Gulgadya Ward.
|
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
Council introduced the Business Façade Improvement Grant Program to help businesses enhance their shopfronts, eligible enhancements included disability access upgrades and works that activate and improve the appearance of local main streets. QA total funding pool of $25,000 was available, with grants capped at $5,000, and offered on a dollar‑for‑dollar basis. Applications were received from 9 February to 20 March and delivered it in line with Council’s Grant Program Guidelines. Eleven (11) applications were received, and a panel of Council officers and an external representative assessed them against the adopted criteria, supported by site inspections to confirm eligibility and need.
This report recommends awarding five (5) grant applications, with one in each ward. The projects will improve the appearance, safety and accessibility of local shopfronts and align strongly with Council’s objectives for main street revitalisation.
This report asks Council to approve the allocation of funding so the recommended projects can proceed. From 2027, Council will transition the Business Façade Improvement Grant Program into Council’s Annual Grants Program to support consistent and transparent administration.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 11 March 2025, Council resolved the following:
a) The program intent is to support businesses that are prominently located to make facade improvements and enhance Mainstreets, in turn supporting local jobs and our local economy;
b) The program represents an extension of the existing Perfect Match program by:
i. Matching mural artists with local businesses to paint murals on awnings, facades and windows
ii. Providing decals of murals by local artists that can be installed in vacant shopfronts
iii. Providing opportunities for eligible businesses to seek financial support to undertake other minor works (such as window or awning repairs, repointing or painting)
c) Eligibility be restricted to businesses within the Inner West local government area that can demonstrate an ongoing connection to a property such as a long-term lease or property ownership;
d) Businesses be required to make a matching financial contribution;
e) When deciding successful applicants, weighting be applied to multicultural businesses and businesses owned by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people; and
f) Successful applicants are evenly distributed across the five wards of the Inner West Council.
2. That Council receive a report on the establishment of the program at the May 2025 Council meeting.
At the Council meeting held on 19 August 2025, Council considered a report on the establishment of a Business Façade Improvement Program. It was resolved:
1. That Council approve the proposed Business Facade Improvement Program outlined in this report, with the following inclusions:
a) That Council approve the proposed Business Façade Improvement Program outlined in the report with the following amendments
i. Works to improve disability access in accordance with relevant building codes be included as a criteria, even if development consent is required.
ii. Under the heading “What types of projects would not be funded” remove the exclusion around works that require development consent.
2. That as part of the trial, Council officers further consider financial barriers to small and new businesses applying and include this in the evaluation of the trial program.
3. That Council consider, in addition to the criteria stipulated in this report, applications from a group of businesses that:
a) would otherwise meet the eligibility criteria stipulated in the report for individual properties;
b) are situated in close proximity to each other;
c) and are willing to share the cost for works across multiple shopfronts.
DISCUSSION
The Business Façade Improvement Program was delivered in accordance with Council’s Grant Program Guidelines.
Assessment criteria
Applicants were required to address the following eligibility criteria:
· The business is located within the Inner West local government area.
· The premises are situated in a prominent main‑street shopping centre.
· The shopfront is in need of an uplift, confirmed through a site visit by Council officers.
· The business has a long-term lease in place.
In addition to the eligibility criteria, proposals were also assessed against broader program considerations, including:
· Works that improve disability access.
· Engagement of local creatives in the design or artistic elements of the façade.
· Repairs or upgrades that enhance pedestrian or shopfront safety.
· Group applications submitted by adjoining businesses.
Grant process
The Business Facade Improvement Grant Program opened on 9 February and closed on 20 March 2026. Throughout the application period, prospective applicants were able to discuss their project ideas with Council officers to help clarify eligibility and program requirements.
The program was promoted through Council’s website, social media channels and business chambers, as well as via a hand‑delivered letter to eligible businesses. Staff also shared information with key stakeholders, including local enterprises, business chambers and business groups, who assisted in further disseminating the information. Social‑media activity generated more than 5,500 views on Instagram and 2,494 views on Facebook.
A total of $25,000 was available, with individual grants capped at $5,000. Businesses are required to match the grant on a dollar‑for‑dollar basis and supply evidence of their contribution before grant funds are released.
A total of eleven (11) applications were received.
Evaluation and recommendation process
All applications were evaluated against the program criteria to determine the recommended awarding of grants. The assessment process included site inspections by Council officers to verify shopfront conditions and confirm eligibility.
The assessment panel comprised officers from the Community, Planning and Property and Major Projects Directorates, along with an external representative from the Balmain Rozelle Business Chamber. Panel members independently scored each application against the evaluation criteria, resulting in a total score for each proposal. Based on these scores, the panel ranked the applications from highest to lowest priority and agreed the final order for grant recommendations. Five projects are recommended for receiving a grant.
Grant recommendations
The recommended applications for receiving a grant are:
1. Embellish Atelier located on Victoria Road, Rozelle (Baludarri Ward) is a millinery business specialising in bespoke hats and headpieces. The proposed works will refresh the shopfront through new paint and bespoke signage, complemented by a mural created by a local artist on the side wall and front panel. These enhancements to the shopfront will celebrate the creative identity of the enterprise and deliver a vibrant, eye‑catching façade that enriches the business precinct.
2. Café The Beans located on Marrickville Road, Dulwich Hill (Djarrawunang Ward). The proposed works will upgrade the existing all‑weather dining structure, replacing the current dilapidated coverage with an improved and welcoming dining space. These enhancements will uplift the site, improve the customer experience, and increase the café’s appeal for both locals and visitors, while contributing positively to the overall look of this main street.
3. James Bouzios & Associates, Universal Finance occupies a prominent corner site on Illawarra Road near Marrickville Metro Station (Midjuburi Ward). The proposed works will introduce a combination of public art and lighting at the corner frontage, highlighting the site’s gateway role. These improvements will enhance visual interest, strengthen the area’s identity and help create a more inviting and safer streetscape.
4. Hearthland is a café located on Douglas Street, Stanmore (Damun Ward). The proposed works will create a highly visible, off‑street native garden and resting area, incorporating seating and welcoming space. The redesign will encourage community use and enjoyment, providing an accessible place to pause and connect with the neighbourhood that can be used outside of business hours.
5. Georgia Draws a House is a women-led creative enterprise on Parramatta Road, Annandale (Gulgadya Ward). The proposed works will transform the shopfront through hand-painted signage and awnings, complemented by a vibrant mural created by local artists. Together, these enhancements will celebrate creativity, strengthen the business’s street presence, and deliver a distinctive and visually appealing façade.
2027 Grant Program
From 2027, the Business Façade Improvement Grant Program will form part of Council’s Annual Grant Program, reinforcing Council’s commitment to transparent and consistent grant administration, in line with the Council resolution of 17 February 2026 C0226(1) Item 46 Notice of Motion: Maintaining Integrity of Annual Grant Program Process.
LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS
The Grants Program will require an Agreement between the Council and the successful Applicants to ensure that grants are provided based on accountability milestones.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
The Business Façade Improvement Grant Program is being funded from the adopted 2025/6 Economic Development budget.
Nil.
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|
Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Christmas in the Inner West
Prepared By: Simone Plummer - Director Planning
|
RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council endorse the table in this report highlighting the deployment of Christmas decorations from mid November 2026 across the Inner West.
2. That Council endorse the procurement of a key Christmas decoration for the new Dulwich Hill Station Plaza, Leichhardt Town Hall, Annandale and Alex Trevallion Plaza.
3. That Council endorse the following initiatives for Christmas 2026- Inner West Light Up Fest; reusable bunting for shop fronts on main streets, the festive grants program, and a program of community Christmas decoration workshops.
4. That Council endorse the initiatives proposed for further cost feasibility and delivery analysis to be provided by a briefing note no later than August 2026. This briefing note will report on a) an Inner West Christmas Events Calendar; b) development of a Christmas communications strategy promoting local businesses artists and community organisations, including a shopfront competition; and c) a dedicated webpage for “Light Up” Fest.
|
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 responds in detail to point 3 of the Council resolution of 17 February 2026, which requested details on the deployment of Christmas decorations in 2026 and opportunities to enhance Christmas activity across the Inner West. It outlines the proposed rollout of existing and newly acquired decorations from mid-November 2026 across key centres and precincts, and confirms that procurement is underway for four additional “key” displays for the new Dulwich Hill Station Plaza, Leichhardt Town Hall, Annandale and Alex Trevallion Plaza.
The report also provides a high-level assessment of feasibility, resourcing and indicative costs for proposed supporting initiatives, including the “Light Up” Fest (prizes and promotion), shopfront festive enhancements on main streets focusing on reusable bunting, delivery of small-scale ward-based events through the existing festive grants program, and community decoration workshops through the Sustainability Hub. It identifies opportunities to coordinate installations with local events and business-led activities, and notes matters requiring further analysis and advice (including the proposed Inner West Christmas Portal, expanded competition promotion and a Christmas communications strategy), to be reported back via a briefing note by August 2026.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 17 February 2026, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council note that new Christmas decorations have been procured, with delivery expected early 2026, and commit to maximising their impact through complementary, low cost, community led initiatives.
2. That Council investigate ways to support Christmas festivity across the Inner West through a combination of localised and LGA wide initiatives that strengthen community connection and encourage residents to shop locally.
3. That Council prepare a report to the April Council meeting that includes the following;
a) Brief overview of how existing Christmas decorations will be deployed across the LGA in 2026
b) Opportunities to coordinate decorations with community events and local shopping precincts
c) Outline of the costs, feasibility and delivery approach for the following initiatives, and any additional initiatives identified by staff;
i. An Inner West “Light Up” Fest, including a best decorated house and street competition and an online map or webpage enabling residents to list participating homes and create a Christmas lights trail with a voting mechanism.
ii. Shopfront festive enhancements on Main Streets (e.g. bunting or tinsel) to increase street level activation and encourage local shopping.
iii. Working with community organisations to deliver a small-scale Christmas event in each ward, including community choirs and a Santa visit and ensure these events are well promoted in the lead up.
iv. Community Christmas Decoration workshops, i.e recycled Christmas wreath workshops at the Sustainability Hub and Council community centres.
d) Consult with the Inner West Council Small Business Local Democracy Group on proposed decoration locations for 2026 and opportunities to coordinate installations with local events.
4. That Council develop an online Inner West Christmas Portal, including:
a) An Inner West Christmas events calendar
b) A local shopping guide highlighting Inner West businesses
c) Content featuring local shop owners, artists and community organisations.
d) A dedicated webpage promoting the Inner West 'Light Up' Fest with voting mechanism, user upload gallery, prize information, terms and conditions and a map showing decorated houses across the Inner West.
5. That Council continue and expand promotion of the shopfront decoration competition, including encouraging participants to share entries through their own social media channels to amplify reach.
6. That Council create and execute a Christmas communication strategy to maximise community awareness and participation for competitions and events, and that the strategy includes a plan to incorporate acknowledgment of other major cultural and community celebrations into council communications.
7. That Council request that Council officers provide high-level observations (without detailed costings) on opportunities for future enhancement of Christmas decorations (including but not limited to the potential use of light projections on buildings and treescapes) and assets beyond 2026, to inform consideration in future budget processes.
DISCUSSION
This first part of the report addresses point 3 in detail.
Deployment of existing Christmas decorations across the LGA in 2026
The following table outlines how decorations, including those newly acquired as well as those previously displayed are planned to be deployed across the LGA for Christmas 2026. The table includes those locations where a new procurement is underway for Christmas 2026.
|
Ward/Location |
Key Decoration |
Other Decorations |
|
Ashfield - Djarrawunang |
||
|
Ashfield |
Wellington Ring (Ashfield Service Centre) |
Banners on Brown and Hercules Streets |
|
Dulwich Hill Village |
3D LED Christmas tree (new) |
4 wreaths, 6 bin art, 4 banners (Wardell Road) |
|
Dulwich Hill Station Plaza |
New procurement underway for Christmas 2026 |
|
|
Summer Hill |
LED reindeer (new) |
2 bin art |
|
Balmain – Baludarri |
||
|
Rozelle |
3D LED bauble (new) |
6 wreaths (Darling Street), 3 Christmas cubes |
|
Balmain |
LED star |
Town Hall bow, 7 wreaths (opposite Gladstone Park) |
|
Leichhardt – Gulgadya |
||
|
Leichhardt |
Town Hall bow (new)
New procurement underway for Christmas 2026 |
10 wreaths (Norton Street), banners (Norton and Crystal Streets), 3 bin art |
|
Annandale |
New procurement underway for Christmas 2026 |
2 bin art, 6 wreaths (Johnston Street) |
|
Haberfield |
3D LED snowflake (new) |
8 banners on Ramsey Street, 4 wreaths, 4 bin art |
|
Marrickville – Midjuburi |
|
|
|
Marrickville |
Town Hall bow (new) |
26 banners on Marrickville Road, 4 wreaths, 6 bin art |
|
Alex Trevallion Plaza |
New procurement underway for Christmas 2026 |
|
|
St Peters |
Town Hall bow (new) Christmas wraps on the Town Hall Columns (new)
|
2 bin art |
|
Stanmore – Damun |
||
|
Pride Square |
3D LED star (new) |
|
|
Stanmore Village |
Fibreglass nutcracker (new) |
6 wreaths, 3 cubes, 6 bin art |
|
Petersham |
Fibreglass candy canes (new) |
Town Hall bow, 4 wreaths, 6 bin art, 6 cubes |
|
Lewisham |
|
2 cubes, 1 bin art |
At its meeting on 17 June 2025, Council resolved that festive decorations be installed at both Pride Square, Newtown and St Peters Town Hall – these are new locations from where decorations have been displayed in the past. As noted in the table above, St Peters Town Hall will receive a bow. An audit late last year identified that a Christmas tree cannot be accommodated at this location without impacting safe pedestrian access. As an alternative, the installation of Christmas wraps to the columns at the Town Hall entrance are proposed. Wraps are regularly placed on these columns for Council initiatives, and this approach would provide a festive presence while maintaining safety and accessibility requirements.
In the meantime procurement from local suppliers is underway for suitable new decorations for Christmas 2026 for the new Dulwich Hill Station Plaza, and for Leichhardt Town Hall, Annandale and Alex Trevallion Plaza. The selection will be from suitable stock currently held by suppliers which can be delivered promptly once procurement has been finalised, in order to overcome potential delays arising from international events.
Opportunities to coordinate decorations with community events and local shopping precincts
Decorations will be installed during the second week of November 2026, with the installation at Loyalty Square to be scheduled after the Remembrance Day event on 11 November. This timing supports coordination with key community and precinct activities including the Balmain Festival, Summer Hill Opera, Norton Street Carols and business chamber initiatives such as Santa visits, Christmas promotions and Christmas carollers.
Costs, feasibility and delivery considerations for proposed initiatives
A high‑level assessment of costs, feasibility and delivery considerations for the initiatives identified in 3c(i)-(iv) of the resolution is provided in the table below.
|
Initiative |
Delivery considerations |
Cost (high-level) |
|
i. Inner West “Light Up” Fest |
Community members will be invited to self‑nominate decorated homes and upload photos to a separate competition page on the council website.
“Light Up” will be promoted through Council’s various communication channels to encourage nominations and visitation. A best-decorated house or street competition is also being considered.
Council’s website provider does not have an in‑built map function, however using a process similar to What’s On feature will allow residents to self‑nominate and appear in a list after which a graphic map can be uploaded. |
5 x $250 gift card
$500 social media advertising
All above accommodated within existing operational budget |
|
ii. Shopfront festive enhancements on main streets |
Options include the use of reusable Season’s Greetings bunting across key main street corridors (Norton St; Darling St; Marrickville and Illawarra Roads; Booth and Johnston Streets; Haberfield Village; Petersham; Stanmore Village; Dulwich Hill Village).
Reusable bunting is supported by strong precedent, including positive feedback from businesses following Council’s distribution of Pride flags.
Commercial‑grade foliage garlands are cost‑prohibitive under the current Christmas decorations budget and the use of tinsel does not align with Council’s Sustainability Policy.
At the 16 March meeting, the Small Business LDG provided feedback on shopfront festive enhancements. The group did not support the use of Christmas bunting but responded positively to the new LED Christmas displays and identified garlands as a preferred decoration for main streets. Members also indicated that additional fairy lights would be welcomed and suggested engaging local artists to develop area‑specific festive designs to create a more localised and tailored approach. |
Reusable bunting is both more cost effective and environmentally sustainable than garlands, although not universally endorsed at the Small Business LDG.
$3,500 for 1,200 units, allowing for approximately 150 flags per main street location.
Garlands with decorations: $1,840 (2.7m) or $4,750 (8.1m). |
|
iii. Small‑scale Christmas events in each ward |
The Creative Communities team operates a festive grants program to support local community Christmas events, with funding allocated per event through an EOI process.
This element therefore aligns with initiatives already in progress, including business chamber activities, and can be delivered within current capacity.
|
The festive grants program has an allocation of $6,000, with individual grants of $500 provided |
|
iv. Community Christmas decoration workshops |
Two free festive community workshops are held each year at the Inner West Sustainability Hub.
The Sustainable Festive Wreath-making workshop allows community members to learn how to make wreaths with a local business, using fresh native flowers. The 20 wreaths are donated for community use after the workshop.
At Festive Crafts community members create festive cards and paper using reused materials.
Additional wreath-making workshops are being explored.
|
Two workshops are scheduled for delivery in 2026 within existing budgets.
Additional workshops have an estimated cost of $4500-$7500, depending on the supplier. Consideration of up to a further five is underway.
|
Matters to be the subject of further advice to Council
The table below addresses the remaining items from the 17 February 2026 Council resolution that require a further response, and will be addressed via an August briefing note to Council.
|
Initiative |
Considerations |
|
Inner West Christmas events calendar |
Events will need to be submitted by organisations through the What’s On platform. A dedicated Christmas 2026 banner can then be applied to each approved listing. Business Chambers can be contacted to encourage their members to submit events.
Social media content could include carousel posts such as “Here are 10 Christmas events coming up” to highlight the events. |
|
Local shopping guide highlighting Inner West businesses |
Assess the feasibility of producing a local shopping guide, noting that a directory of individual businesses would be highly resource‑intensive and costly, and that the Balmain Rozelle Chamber of Commerce already maintains a business directory.
An alternative approach for consideration could be the development of centre‑ or suburb‑based snapshots that highlight the types of business offerings in each area rather than individual operators. |
|
Content featuring local shop owners, artists and community organisations |
Social media content will be developed to promote the Christmas Window Competition and highlight Christmas events. Community organisations such as the Bill Crews Appeal, Carols on Norton and others will be featured on Council’s social media channels and in the newsletter.
Artists, business owners and community organisations can also be featured where identified. |
|
Dedicated webpage for ‘Light Up’ Fest including voting, uploads, prizes, T&Cs and map |
As noted in the table above, a dedicated webpage could support the “Light Up” Fest by enabling photo uploads, public voting, a mapped trail, prize information and T&Cs. |
|
Continue and expand promotion of the shopfront decoration competition |
Consider how the expanded competition promotion will be delivered, including methods to prompt participants to share entries on their own social media. |
|
Create and execute a Christmas communication strategy to maximise community awareness and participation for competitions and events |
Develop a communications strategy across Council’s social media channels, website, digital screens and newsletter to promote the “Light Up” competition, window competition, Christmas events and participating businesses and organisations.
|
|
Opportunities for future enhancement of Christmas decorations |
Consideration of how future enhancements to Christmas decorations can be delivered within existing budget settings, noting the ongoing need for specialist contractors for some installations and the preference to avoid this requirement for new decorations. Opportunities include gradually expanding the collection, addressing gaps in key centres, incorporating low‑cost digital messaging, and exploring co‑funded or co‑branded installations with major local businesses. It is anticipated that engagement with Business Chambers and the Small Business LDG will help identify environmentally sustainable and cost‑effective options. |
LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS
There are no legal and risk implications associated with this report.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
Procurement for further Christmas decorations for 2026 is underway for 4 key decorations for the new Dulwich Hill Station Plaza, Leichhardt Town Hall, Annandale and Alex Trevallion Plaza. Other costs nominated for reusable bunting, prizes and the implementation of new communication strategies will be accommodated within existing operational budgets.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: In-road tree planting St Marys Street Camperdown – Consultation outcomes
Prepared By: Manod Wickramasinghe - Acting Director Engineering
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council endorse the inclusion of a kerb blister island and two (2) in-road street trees in St Marys Street Camperdown as per Attachment 1. |
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 |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In April 2025 Council resolved to proceed with further planning, design and consultation relating to trees being planted in the parking lane of St Marys Street Camperdown.
Council conducted investigations and design works on the basis that the proposed works would enhance our urban forest canopy whilst not impacting the number of legal parking spaces in the street. The proposed design has met these goals. Four street trees are proposed, and they have been carefully positioned to ensure all legal parking spaces are retained.
Community consultation of residents and property owners has recently been completed. 75% of respondents fully supported the proposal and 19% of respondents conditionally supported it. The issues raised during the consultation have been considered and advice has been provided to respond to the items raised.
Based on further review of underground services, the plan has been amended to provide a landscaped kerb blister island on St Marys Street between Probert Street and Probert Lane and two (2) re-positioned street trees on St Marys Street between Probert Lane and Chelmsford Street.
It is recommended that Council endorse the proposed works.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 29 April 2025, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council undertake consultation with residents and local businesses (including Camperdown Collision Centre and Artsite Contemporary) on increased in-road tree planting at St Marys Street, Camperdown between Salisbury Road and Chelmsford Street.
2. That Council prepare a report back on consultation outcomes as well as feasibility, cost, and impact on parking and road usage of increased in-road tree planting at this location.
This report provides a summary of planning, design, community consultation and planned works relating to this resolution.
DISCUSSION
St Marys Street Camperdown has two way traffic movements and parking provided on both sides of the road. The footway is relatively narrow and cannot accommodate an accessible footway whilst also making provision for street trees.
Given the characteristics of the street, there are minimal opportunities for street trees to be planted in the footway. There is however an opportunity to plant street trees in the parking lane, and when carefully considered this can be achieved with minimal parking losses.
Based on the April 2025 Council resolution, Council officers developed a street plan which included for the provision of four (4) in-road trees in St Mary’s Street, Camperdown between Salisbury Road and Chelmsford Street. Two in-road trees were proposed on the eastern side of St Mary’s Street between Probert Street and Probert Lane with an additional two trees proposed also on the eastern side, between Probert Lane and Chelmsford Street.
The locations selected for in-road tree planting had taken into consideration overhead wiring, known underground services, drainage, intersection maneuvering, sight lines and existing tree canopies. Parking impacts have been taken into consideration, and trees have been carefully positioned to minimise parking impacts.
Tree pits are required to be installed for these in-road trees to provide the trees with adequate soil volume, air and water.
However, based on further investigation of underground services, including potholing, it was determined that the initially proposed location of the street trees would need to be reconsidered.
The plan has been amended to provide a landscaped kerb blister island on St Marys Street between Probert Street and Probert Lane noting that extensive services were present below the road surface, which would not provide sufficient area for a tree and associated root system to establish. St Marys Street between Probert Lane and Chelmsford Street has fewer services and the revised proposal retains both trees with minor re-positioning to eliminate encroachment onto services.
The revised concept plan for the trees is shown in Attachment 1.
PUBLIC CONSULTATION
Community consultation was arranged to provide an opportunity for feedback regarding the four initially proposed trees and associated parking changes. Residents and property owners in St Marys Street were provided details of the proposed works and were given the opportunity to select the tree species, being either the Illawarra Flame or Callery Pear.
A total of 81 consultation letters outlining the proposal were delivered to 60 residents and mailed to 21 owners on Friday 30 January 2026.
A total of 16 responses to the proposal were received, with 27% of residents responding and an overall valid response rate of 20%.
The results are summarised below:
|
Item |
Number of Responses |
Response Rate |
|
Responses in support |
12 |
75% |
|
Responses with conditional support |
3 |
19% |
|
Responses opposing |
1 |
6% |
|
Preferred tree species |
|
|
|
Illawarra Flame |
8 |
50% |
|
Callery Pear |
5 |
31% |
|
No Preference |
2 |
13% |
|
Oppose |
1 |
6% |
The following table provides a summary of written submissions made by the respondents who opposed or conditionally supported the proposal, as well as Council officer advice relating to the items raised.
|
Response |
Resident comments |
Officer response |
|
Oppose |
The species of trees needs to be shorter to prevent root damage to building foundations, blockage to roof gutters & prevent reduction of light.
The current proposal removes multiple parking spaces.
The respondent proposed the following actions: - Reduce mature tree height (simple to implement) - Remedy parking options: (1) Return to original planned spaces, (3 - less desirable) remove parking limitations on other side of street Alternative locations that retain existing parking capacity should be investigated, including opportunities within footpath areas or existing no stopping zones where feasible. |
The proposed small species of tree were specifically chosen to minimise the impact on the above ground infrastructure. They are a relatively narrow and compact trees. There are only 2 trees proposed per block and they are carefully spaced to minimise impact on light. Given the limited soil volume in the road it is likely that the trees will grow to around 6 metres in height. The tree roots would not be prone to impact adjacent dwellings. The limited soil space and type within the road will ensure that roots develop within the planting area.
The proposal does not result in any loss of legal parking spaces. There are several constraints such as overhead wiring, existing trees and manoeuvring requirements that have been taken into consideration in preparing the locations for tree planting. ‘No Stopping’ restrictions at intersections have been reduced to mitigate parking loss. |
|
Conditional support |
The old road openings were saw cut and excavated in St Marys Street to connect terrace homes to the water and sewer system some 60 years ago. The homes were very close in time to one another. The site was an old spring factory. I request that Council carry out milling and re-sheeting works of the road before trees are installed.
Alternate locations for street trees were suggested by the resident they felt worked better. |
Road resurfacing is generally instigated when asset condition is poor. There are no current plans to resurface the road. Council’s Infrastructure Planning team have been requested to asses the road surface to validate whether resurfacing is warranted.
The alternate locations proposed by the resident are not supported due to manoeuvring and sight line requirements at intersections. |
|
Conditional support |
While I have no problem in principle to this proposal I have a few issues that maybe you could address: 1. Will council maintain these trees and prevent them from damaging buildings? As the tree will be 10m high and quite close to the building and the footpath is narrow. 2. I don’t know anything about Callery Pear root systems, however, is there a risk they will damage our building foundations? And will council cover all repair costs if this occurs? 3. Also, the storm water drains that our building drains into is near where a tree would be planted. Could this tree damage our building drainage system, and would council cover all repair costs if this occurs? |
The species of tree chosen have a potential maximum height of ten metres at maturity and are narrow in form. Due to the limited soil volume in the road it is more likely they will grow to around six metres in height. They were specifically chosen to minimise the impact on the above ground space and tolerate minor pruning whilst remaining attractive. The tree roots are not prone to impacting adjacent dwellings. The soil space and planting arrangement ensure that roots will develop within the planting area. |
|
Conditional support |
I would take the advice of council arborists regarding which trees to plant, however aesthetically, I’m more in favour of the Illawarra Flame tree, as opposed to the Callery Pear. My only concern would be possible allergic/toxicity reaction to dogs (and humans?) from hairs on the seeds which is a factor mentioned in my small amount of research of both selected trees. If these trees pose little risk to residents and visitors, as decided by your expert advice, I’m in favour of the planting. |
Both species of tree have been used for many decades in Sydney and elsewhere in NSW with no significant issues.
Mild health impacts from Callery Pear is only known to occur where an animal or child eats a large quantity of seeds or dead leaves. This situation is unlikely in a street situation where Council conduct routine servicing, plus children and pets are accompanied by an adult.
Seeds of the Illawarra Flame are well known to be eaten both raw and cooked as part of indigenous culture. In preparing the seeds to be eaten the hairs from the seeds are firstly removed as they can cause digestive irritation. The species is not poisonous. |
CONCLUSION
Given the proposal does not impact the number of legal parking spaces, there is high level community support and the concerns raised by residents have been satisfactorily considered, it is recommended that the proposal proceed.
The final arrangements and works will need consider the underground services and will be subject to all necessary approvals being received from utility providers.
LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS
There are no legal and risk implications associated with this report.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
The cost to provide in-road street trees is substantially higher than trees provided in the footway. The average cost of planting trees in the footway or in a park is in the order of $1,500 per tree taking account of planning, consultation, tree procurement, underground / surface works and ongoing establishment care. The cost for in-road street trees is approximately 10 to 20 times the cost of a tree in the footway due to additional planning, consultation and road works.
Funding for this project is therefore expected to be $50,000 if undertaken via contractors. Arrangements are however being made to undertake these works in-house by the Civil Works team with material costs to be funded from operational budgets.
|
1.⇩ |
St Marys Street Camperdown In-Road Tree Planting Proposal |
|
|
Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Local Transport Forum Meeting - 16 March 2026
Prepared By: Manod Wickramasinghe - Acting Director Engineering
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive and and adopt the recommendations of the Local Transport Forum meeting held on 16 March 2026. |
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport |
|
|
DISCUSSION
The March 2026 meeting of the Local Transport Forum was held at the Ashfield Service Centre. The minutes of the meeting are shown in Attachment 1 for Council’s consideration and adoption.
Items by Ward – March 2026
|
Ward |
Item |
|
Baludarri (Balmain)
|
Oxford Street & Park Street, Rozelle - Proposed One-Way Traffic Proposal |
|
Spring Street, Birchgrove - Revised 'No Stopping' Zones |
|
|
Curtis Road and McDonald Street, Balmain - Proposed Pedestrian Crossing, Continuous Footpath and One-Way Treatment |
|
|
Curtis Road, Balmain - Proposed Pedestrian (zebra) Crossing |
|
|
Gulgadya (Leichhardt)
|
Leichhardt West Stage 2 Marketplace and Stage 3 Taverners Hill Precinct - Resident Parking Scheme |
|
Midjuburi (Marrickville)
|
Marrickville Road East, Marrickville - Cycle Path |
|
St Peters Station Parking Study |
|
|
Djarrawunang (Ashfield)
|
Victoria Street, Ashfield - Proposed Raised Pedestrian Crossing |
|
Drynan Street at Prospect Road, Summer Hill – Proposed Raised Pedestrian Crossing – Design Plan 10377 |
|
|
Damun (Stanmore) |
Lennox Street, Newtown – Proposed Pedestrian Safety and Stormwater Improvement Works – Design Plan 10362A |
|
St. Peter's Station Parking Study
|
|
|
All Wards |
Inner West LGA - Proposal for Flexicar car share parking spaces
|
LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS
There are no legal and risk implications associated with this report.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
Projects proposed for implementation are funded within existing budget allocations.
|
1.⇩ |
Local Transport Forum minutes - 16 March 2026 |
|
Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Post Exhibition - Land Classification - 3-7 Regent Street, Petersham
Prepared By: Peter Shields - Acting Director Property and Major Projects
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council resolves to classify land being Lot 2 DP 1304506 (24 Car Parking Spaces), Lot 3 SP 108083 (Unit G03 including storage), Lot 5 SP 108083 (Unit G05 including storage), Lot 6 SP 108083 (Unit G06 including storage), Lot 18 SP 108083 (Unit 111 including storage), Lot 33 SP 108083 (Unit 211 including storage) and Lot 48 SP 108083 48 (Unit 311 including storage) as Operational Land for the purpose of the Local Government Act 1993 NSW.
|
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
Council entered into a Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) on 9 November 2018 for the redevelopment of 3–7 Regent Street, Petersham.
The VPA required the transfer of 24 public car parking spaces and six affordable housing units following registration of the strata plan on 26 June 2024. All assets were transferred to Council on 20 February 2026.
In accordance with the Local Government Act 1993, Council must classify the land as either Community or Operational. Given the assets’ location within a strata scheme and the need for flexible management, Operational classification is considered appropriate.
The proposed classification aligns with Council’s Affordable Housing Policy and ensures the ongoing effective administration of the properties by Council and Link Wentworth Housing Limited (Council’s Community Housing Provider and property manager).
Public exhibition of the proposed classification was undertaken from 25 February to 25 March 2026 with one submission received in support.
This report recommends that the properties transferred to Council under the VPA for 3-7 Regent Street Petersham be classified as Operational Land.
BACKGROUND
Council entered into a Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) with Deicorp Projects Petersham Pty Ltd (Developer) on 9 November 2018 for the redevelopment of the former Petersham RSL site located at 3-7 Regent Street, Petersham (Site 1).
The VPA requires the Developer to transfer 24 car parking spaces within a stratum lot on ground level to Council in fee simple as a freehold stratum lot and 6 affordable housing units (3 one bedroom units and 3 two bedroom units, all with no car spaces and located throughout the building) within 28 days of the registration of the strata plan for Site 1.
The strata plan for Site 1 was registered onto title at Land and Registry Services (LRS) on 26 June 2024.
The assets included Lot 2 DP 1304506 (24 No. Car Parking Spaces), Lot 3 SP 108083 (Unit G03 including storage), Lot 5 SP 108083 (Unit G05 including storage), Lot 6 SP 108083 (Unit G06 including storage), Lot 18 SP 108083 (Unit 111 including storage), Lot 33 SP 108083 (Unit 211 including storage) and Lot 48 SP 108083 48 (Unit 311 including storage) and were successfully transferred to Council ownership on 20 February 2026 at LRS (refer title searches at Attachments 1 and 2).
DISCUSSION
Under the VPA the car parking spaces are required to be used for public car parking and the residential units are to be managed as Affordable Housing Units.
Council’s Affordable Housing Policy adopted on 10 May 2022 requires the transferred dwellings to remain as Affordable Housing Units in perpetuity. Councils’ current Community Housing Provider (CHP) and affordable housing portfolio property manager is Link Wentworth Housing Limited.
Following redrafting and amendments to various documents, registrations were completed at LRS and Council immediately progressed land classification as required by clause 34 of the Local Government Act 1993.
Land Classification
In accordance with clause 34 of the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act), Council was required to undertake a 28-day public exhibition for the proposed resolution to classify the land.
A Council resolution to classify the newly acquired land as Operational is required within three months of transfer (no later than 19 May 2026).
Should Council not resolve the classification of the land within this timeframe, the land will by default be classified as Community Land which causes difficulty in the ongoing management of affordable housing residential units and the car parking spaces.
Community Land classification usually applies to land that is reserved for a public purpose (particularly open space land) as it comes with a number of management consequences under the Act (including plans of management, restrictions on the granting of leases/licenses/easements, disposal of land etc.). A Community Land classification is not considered appropriate for the 24 car parking spaces and 6 residential units considering their use as affordable housing, which requires highly flexible management and is within a strata scheme registered onto title (Strata Plan No. 18083 – refer Attachment 2).
Community Engagement
In order for Council to deal with a resolution to classify the land, a 28-day public exhibition period must first be undertaken in accordance with the Act. Public exhibition took place between 25 February 2026 and 25 March 2026.
The proposed resolution to classify the land was notified publicly on Council’s web site, on the Your Say Inner West (YSIW) project page (which is similar to public notifications of draft plans of management and other requests for community feedback).
The project page had a total of 194 views and Council received one response from the online feedback form.
The one submission received was in support of the proposed classification as Operational Land. The response comment was “I strongly support the provision of public benefits in any private development”.
Officers’ Comments
It is recommended that Council approve the land classification to Operational Land which will allow the ongoing management of the car parking spaces (by Council’s Traffic and Transport Planning Unit) and affordable housing residential units (by Council’s Property Unit and external Community Housing Provider, Link Wentworth Housing Limited).
The approved classification will be recorded in Council’s formal Meeting Minutes and its Land and Property Register (as required by the Act). A public notice will also be made on the YSIW project page, as well as notifying any respondents of the outcome.
LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS
There is a legal requirement under the Local Government Act 1993 to classify the land as operational land otherwise such lands will default as community land.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
The Fair Value of the 24 car parking spaces and 6 affordable housing units will be added to the total assets and liabilities for Council upon receiving a valuation report indicating such. Council will receive a rental income from the 24 car parking spaces and 6 affordable housing units less any repairs, maintenance, insurance, property management and ongoing costs.
|
1.⇩ |
Title Search - Lot 2 Carpark, 3-7 Regent Street, Petersham |
|
2.⇩ |
Title Search - Strata Plan No.108083, 3-7 Regent Street, Petersham |
|
Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Post Exhibition - Lackey Street, Summer Hill improvements
Prepared By: Peter Shields - Acting Director Property and Major Projects
|
RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council endorse the proposal to make Lackey Street, Summer Hill ‘event-ready’.
2. The Council approve the ongoing free provision of traffic management services operated by Council staff at all four Plug and Play venues up to six times per year by adding $76,000 to the operational budget for 26/27 financial year.
|
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport 3: Creative communities and a strong economy |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report outlines the findings of community engagement undertaken in February and March 2026 for the activation of Lackey Street Summer Hill for periodic events.
Council undertook a 28-day community engagement between 16 February and 16 March 2026 seeking community and local businesses’ feedback on their preferred day of the week for events, and preferred types of events (Markets, Music and Cultural events). Council officers doorknocked Lackey Street businesses, attended the Summer Hill Social with a pop-up stand and engaged with AshBiz during the exhibition period.
Most responses from the community supported Sunday as the preferred event day and showed strong support towards the staging of markets, cultural and music events.
The ‘event-ready’ proposal will be low cost and easy to organise. A streamlined approval process is being included on Council’s website with a pre-approved traffic management plan and event management plan and event power is readily available. These arrangements provide for the periodic closure of Lackey Street to vehicles for pedestrian activations and events, up to 6 times a year on Sundays.
Members of the community have continued to express that traffic management costs to hold a Plug and Play event are cost prohibitive. Traffic management can be provided by Council staff for all four Plug and Play Venues up to six times a year for $76,000.
It is recommended that Council formally endorse the proposal to make Lackey Street ‘Event-ready’ and provide traffic management services at no cost up to six times a year at all Plug and Play venues.
BACKGROUND
Council has entered a funding agreement with Transport for NSW to investigate improving pedestrian access on Lackey Street, Summer Hill.
At the Council meeting held on 9 December 2025, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council consult with the community for a period of 28 days on a Permit / Plug / Play approach to support temporary road closures of Lackey Street south, Summer Hill.
2. That Council consult with AshBiz as part of the community consultation.
3. That Council receive a report on the outcomes of the community engagement by April 2026 to enable implementation of the strategy by July 2026.
This report summarises activities undertaken since this resolution and considers future arrangements for periodic events on Lackey Street.
DISCUSSION
The proposal to make Lackey Street ‘event-ready’ for local businesses or community groups was developed on the basis that up to six (6) events are held each year on Sundays. The events would operate between 12pm and 6pm, with bump-in no earlier than 3:30am and bump-out no later than 11:30pm. Highlights of the proposal include:
· A streamlined application process supported by a pre-approved Traffic Management Plan, and Section 68 Event Application form;
· Making Temporary Hostile Vehicle Mitigation barriers that Council currently owns available; and
· Installing permanent power supply in the area for event use.
Community Consultation
The 28-day community engagement commenced from 16 February 2026 and concluded on 16 March 2026. The engagement notified community of the proposal and sought feedback on preferred timing and types of events. A draft Global Traffic Management Plan and an Event Management Plan were also exhibited. The Engagement Outcomes Report (Attachment 1) provides details of the findings of the community engagement.
During the engagement period, 923 people visited the Your Say Inner West project page. 85 people completed the online survey, 9 email submissions were received, and 2 phone call submissions were made. In addition:
· On 25 February the project team doorknocked Lackey Street businesses between 11am and 12pm informing them of the engagement and seeking feedback.
· On 8 March, during Summer Hill Social event, the project team attended a pop-up session between 11am and 2pm with 97 community members indicating their preferences on event types.
· The project team sought meetings with AshBiz to discuss the proposal and was subsequently advised that they are aware of the proposal and a meeting is not required.
Key themes arising from the engagement are summarised below:
|
Key Theme |
Council Officer Summary |
|
Supporting the proposal |
Majority of the respondent are supportive. Overarching feedback was that more events will contribute to local economy and vibrancy of the area. Some are hoping for more events. |
|
Concerns over the disruption |
A few respondents living close to the area are concerned with the bumping-in time being too early and bumping-out time too late, compromising the amenity of these residents on event days. There is worry about generators and music noise. Concerns were expressed over loss of parking and access for businesses on Sundays. A minority of people would like to see less closures. |
|
Support for Sunday events |
The proposal to have events on Sundays was generally supported by the community, noting some people want to see it expanded to other days too. |
|
Preferred event type |
Markets and cultural events or festivals were found to be more popular than music events. It was noted that The Flour Mill has a frequent market just 800m away. Feedback received highlighted that future markets in Lackey Street should be coordinated with the Flour Mill markets to avoid conflicts. A few community members mentioned their desire to see more family-friendly and intimate events. |
|
Pedestrianise Lackey Street permanently |
Some people indicated support for permanent pedestrianisation of Lackey Street, especially between Hardie Ave and Smith St, indicating there is no need to keep through-traffic and traffic can be absorbed in other local streets. |
|
Events should be accessible to all |
Responses indicated a desire that a wide range of businesses are encouraged to participate. The activations should be open to the wider community rather than patrons of individual businesses. Events should be managed to ensure public access remains available through the area. |
Event Ready Arrangements
The Permit, Plug and Play Program has been developed to enable local business to run events in preapproved locations. The intent of the program is to reduce red tape for low risk, pre-approved events on Sundays. Council officers have developed a simplified event application process with preapproved traffic management plans which allows business owners to submit an event application and have this assessed by Council’s Health and Building Section. Approvals take approximately three weeks for assessment and approval. Eligible event types under the Permit, Plug-and-Play pathway are limited to market stallholders, music events, and cultural events or festivals. To use Council’s pre-approved Event Management Plan, events must be held on a Sunday, operate between 12:00 pm and 6:00 pm, with bump-in no earlier than 3:30 am and bump-out no later than 11:30 pm. Events outside these parameters require a custom Event Management Plan.
As part of the road closure, it is a mandatory requirement that Traffic controllers are engaged to actively manage the road closure. This is needed in case emergency services need access to or through the site during the event period. The traffic controller role is to maintain and address emergency access for events. The cost of employing Traffic Controllers for approximately six events per year in Lackey Street is estimated at $21,500 annually.
Event Extent
The original event footprint proposed for the Lackey Street events was from Carlton Crescent to Smith Street, with closures on Hardie Avenue, Smith Street and Carlton Crescent. The event footprint proposed was subsequently reduced in size following the consultation. The reduction in footprint size was made on the basis that:
· The closure of access to Hardie Avenue would have caused substantial traffic impacts for vehicle access to the centre carpark which will be relied upon by people visiting the event.
· The reduced closure area remains substantial in size noting it includes the road and piazza area alongside Lackey Street.
The updated event closure area is shown in Figure 1.
Figure 1. Revised extent of road closure.
Traffic Management of Plug and Play Events
Council has continued to receive feedback from the community that traffic management costs are very high and make the holding of events cost prohibitive. These costs include the preparation of the approved traffic management plan, the accredited traffic control crew needed for the event as well as the transport and setup of Temporary Hostile Vehicle Mitigation barriers.
Council has explored the option of provisioning all traffic management costs for free using Council staff across all four Plug and Play sites, being:
· Hercules Street, Ashfield
· Illawarra Lane and Calvert Street Carpark, Marrickville
· Railway Parade, Sydenham
· Lackey Street, Summer Hill
The annual cost to provide the traffic control services with Council staff for all four sites up to six times each year is estimated to be $76,000. It is recommended that Council make ongoing provision of funding within the economic development program.
Next Steps
It is recommended that Council endorse the event proposal. Upon endorsement the following actions will be taken:
· Finalisation of the Global Traffic Management Plan (TMP) and Event Management Plan.
· Delivery the permanent power supply for event uses within the Piazza.
· Lackey Street will be listed on Council’s Permit Plug and Play web page making the streamlined application process available for community or business applications.
· Promotion of availability of the site with businesses and local community alongside engagements planned for the other permit plug and play sites at Marrickville
A combined engagement program informing the community of Plug and Play locations will commence prior to 30 June 2026.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
Plug and Play events are arranged and booked by local businesses or community groups. Event costs must be met by the event holder.
It is proposed that Council will assist by providing event Traffic management for no cost at all Plug and Play locations for up to six times each year. The annual provision of $76,000 will be added to Council’s 2026/27 Operational Budget.
Costs for capital works associated with the upgrade of available power supply for event use and consultant costs to develop the TMP and Section 68 Event Application have been funded by a grant from Transport for NSW.
LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS
There are no legal and risk implications associated with this report.
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.⇨ |
Engagement Outcomes Report - Published Separately on Council’s website |
|
|
Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Post Exhibition - Pocket and Neighbourhood Parks Plan of Management
Prepared By: Peter Shields - Acting Director Property and Major Projects
|
RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council adopt the Pocket and Neighbourhood Parks Plan of Management for community land vested in its care and control.
2. That Council endorse the referral of the Pocket and Neighbourhood Parks Plan of Management to the Minister for Lands and Property for adoption in respect of the 19 Pocket and Neighbourhood Parks that are vested as crown land.
3. That all funding required for upgrade works identified in the Pocket and Neighbourhood Parks Plan of Management is incorporated into the forthcoming Inner West Council Infrastructure Delivery Plan and notes the prioritisation of these works will be set when this plan is prepared in October 2026.
|
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 5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report provides the outcomes of community engagement in relation to the exhibition of a draft Plan of Management for Council’s 214 Neighbourhood and Pocket Parks. The final draft plan of management provides an integrated framework for the management of pocket and neighbourhood parks across the Inner West Local Government area.
Community feedback on the Plan of Management is provided in the report with most of the feedback being supportive of the plan. A total of 144 people made direct submissions to the draft Plan of Management. At the request of Council, a site-specific engagement meeting was also held at Albert Parade Reserve. The insights gained from this session are now being used to inform and shape planned improvements to the parkland, which are scheduled for implementation in 2026.
Following a request for a deferral at the February 2026 Ordinary meeting, a revised Plan of Management has been prepared for Council which has all parks annotated by Council ward. The cover sheet for each ward lists the park name, address, classification, landowner, refurbishment cost, priority and whether a sensory garden is proposed.
Funding for park upgrades will be incorporated into the forthcoming Infrastructure Delivery Plan and works will be considered as a part of the annual budget planning process.
BACKGROUND
The Inner West Council area has a total of 214 Neighbourhood and Pocket Parks. These small pockets of open space are integral to the vibrancy and character of the Inner West Local Government Area and highly valued by residents. They are cherished gathering spaces within our community, playing a vital role in fostering social connections and contributing significantly to a sense of community and place.
As the population of the Inner West grows into the future, the significance of Neighbourhood and Pocket Parks within our community will become even more pronounced. These parks are vital to the health and well-being of residents, offering essential spaces for recreation, fostering community connections, and being thoughtfully managed and designed to meet the specific needs of local users.
These parks feature landscaped areas with well-maintained turf, dedicated children’s play zones, built structures such as pergolas, pedestrian pathways, and park furniture. Where appropriate, they may also include community gardens and designated biodiversity zones.
Pocket Parks are generally smaller than 0.2ha and provided within a 200m walkable catchment of residential dwellings.
Neighbourhood parks are generally 0.5 – 2 ha and provided within a 400m walkable catchment of residential dwellings.
There are several relevant Council resolutions which have been considered as part of the development of Council’s Neighbourhood and Pocket Parks Plan of Management. These resolutions are summarised as follows:
At the Council meeting held on 8 August 2023, Council resolved the following in part:
1. That Council publicly exhibit the Draft Plan of Management for Neighbourhood and Pocket Parks for a period of 42 days and seek public feedback on the proposed plan of management and master plan for the parks.
3. That prior to placing on public exhibition, staff incorporate the establishment of sensory gardens in suitable pocket parks as part of table 6.1:3 An Inclusive and Collective Design, in accordance with the councillor priority listed in the Community Strategic Plan adopted in June 2022 (4.3.2)
At the Council meeting held on 22 October 2024, Council resolved the following in part:
1. That in each ward, Council incorporates a sensory garden in a pocket park for local children and residents with neurodiversity.”
At the Council meeting held on 3 December 2024, Council resolved the following in part:
2. That Council convene an onsite meeting at Albert Parade Reserve in Ashfield to consult local residents on implementing improvements to the Reserve as indicated in the Pocket Parks Plan of Management, including a timeline for those works in parallel with the preparation of the Pocket Parks Plan of Management”.
At the Council meeting held on 24 February 2026, Council resolved the following:
That Council defers and receives a further report to the March Council Meeting which separates the Pocket Parks Plan of Management into a separate report for each of the five wards and includes:
1. An estimated total expenditure per park and per ward;
2. A list of which parks per ward fall into each category of prioritisation;
3. Information as to how the recommendations and costings for each pocket park will be integrated into the capital works program.
As part of an integrated planning process, plazas and squares located off main streets in each of Council’s main village centres have also been included in the draft plan of management. This inclusion allows for informed decision-making on future public domain improvements to these areas and assists with a management framework for these public spaces.
DISCUSSION
The key objectives of the Plan of Management are to:
· Identify the Inner West’s Neighbourhood and Pocket Parks
· Provide an integrated approach specific to the management of Neighbourhood and Pocket parks across the Inner West LGA
· Outline the current and future use, development and maintenance requirements
· Include measurable and defined deliverables linked to Council’s Community Strategic Plan (CSP) as well as alignment with relevant Council adopted strategies and policies
· Accommodate Council’s responsibilities under the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act) and Crown Land Management Act 2016.
Following the February 2026 Council meeting, Council officers have revised and separated the Plan of Management by ward areas for all Council managed Pocket and Neighbourhood Parks and provided priority rankings for future park refurbishments along with estimated costings associated with individual park upgrades (refer to Attachments 2 to 6).
Community Engagement
Tailored community engagement has been undertaken as part of the exhibition of a draft plan of management. Community views on the draft plan have been sought on current park management issues and importantly development opportunities as they relate to Neighbourhood and Pocket Park improvements.
Between 9 October to 20 November 2023, the community was invited to provide feedback on the draft Neighbourhood and Pocket Park Plan of Management. Flyers, posters and social media were ultised to promote the engagement events. During the engagement period 1,192 people visited the Your Say project page. The draft documents were downloaded a total of 1,070 times. A total of 13 participants completed the online survey, 144 responses were received on the online interactive map, 63 people attended one of the in-person sessions and 40 provided feedback via email.
The community engagement report is included as Attachment 7 to this report.
In addition to online community engagement, a total of five on-site community engagement events were held across the ward areas for residents to provide face-to-face feedback to Council officers. These events were advised via park notices and Council’s Your Say Inner West web page. Each engagement event received positive feedback and were well attended to by local residents and park users. Engagement was held at the following park locations:
|
Date |
Park and Suburb |
Total Attendees |
|
Saturday 14 October 2023 |
Morton Park, Lewisham |
8 |
|
Allman Park, Ashfield |
13 |
|
|
Saturday 21 October 2023 |
Orange Grove Plaza, Lilyfield |
11 |
|
Evan Jones Playground, Leichhardt |
22 |
|
|
Saturday 28 October 2023 |
McNeilly Park, Marrickville |
9 |
A total of 43 email submissions were received providing feedback on a total of 21 parks. In this regard, the following suggestions were received:
|
Park |
Pertaining to |
Total Emails |
|
Albert Parade Reserve 14 emails |
Park upgrade including improvements to accessibility, play spaces and a request for a dog off-leash area. |
12 |
|
Lighting improvements within the parkland |
1 |
|
|
Retain rose garden for heritage character. Improve poor maintenance. |
1 |
|
|
Balmain Cove & Elliott Park |
Concerns for privacy and safety for properties which are adjacent to the park. Request consultation with private residences adjacent to the parks prior to any future development or management changes. |
10 |
|
Hawthorne Parade Reserve |
Non support for dog off-leash area |
4 |
|
Evan Jones Playground |
Non support for the proposed dog off-leash area |
2 |
|
Support for the Dog off-leash area |
1 |
|
|
Rotary Park |
Comments on the Dog off-leash area |
2 |
|
Comments on Lighting needs |
1 |
|
|
Thomas Street Reserve |
Comments on the Fenced dog off-leash area |
2 |
|
Bede Spillane Reserve |
Comments on Lighting needs |
1 |
|
Morton Park |
Comments on the provision of public toilets |
1 |
|
Matt Hogan Reserve |
Comments on the provision of Dog off-leash area |
1 |
|
Hannan Reserve |
Rationalise parking space, interest to lease small lawn area at the back of childcare centre |
1 |
|
Bell Reserve & Explorers Park |
Design tailored for individual site prioritising the site history. Request for Less play equipment and provision of a dog off leash area |
1 |
|
Explorers Park |
Comments in relation to park maintenance -Seating, bubbler, bin, toilets, White metal seats discoloured, patch up paths, different located seats, new planting |
1 |
|
Crammond Park |
Disagree on the provision of picnic facilities. Requests that Council address illegal dumping and graffiti issues, dog and kids’ conflict |
1 |
|
Montague Gardens |
Request that Council consider upgrades to tennis court, preserving the heritage gates and pruning trees |
1 |
|
Eve Sharpe Park |
Comments on the Poor maintenance and condition of the park. Park is used as an off-leash park and its dark and uncared for. Pruning of the trees within the park was also requested. |
1 |
|
McNeilly Park |
Stormwater drainage issue needs to be addressed within the dog off leash area |
1 |
|
Maundrell Park |
Request for the provision of two BBQ facilities. |
1 |
|
Enmore Dog Park |
Commentary around the park layout-Trees should be outside of fence line; accessibility for wheelchairs in needed; The need for a double gate into the parkland; very few cyclists use; flippable dog bowl bubbler; lighting upgrade; simpler signs |
1 |
|
Styles Street Reserve |
Fencing along Styles St for safety; details of proposal of end of Styles Street; support planting but want to be sure no shade overcasting to 2 Styles St |
1 |
|
Mayes Street Reserve |
Commentary around the pedestrian crossing affecting car parking on Whites Lane |
1 |
Additional Engagement - Albert Parade Reserve
Following the Council resolution in December 2024, community members were invited to share their feedback on the proposed improvements to Albert Parade Reserve. Additional, online engagement was held from 24 February to 20 March 2025 with a total of 351 people visiting the Your Say Inner West project page. A total of 14 participants completed the online survey in relation to park improvements. An onsite park engagement session was held with Council officers on the evening 4 March 2025 with a total of 23 people attending and providing feedback on proposed parkland improvements.
A full summary of this feedback along with a key recommendation for the development of a park master plan are outlined in Appendix D.
Following community feedback, a master plan is underway to upgrade the park, focusing on improving the playground and landscaping. The upgrades at Albert Parade Reserve are expected to be finished by June 2026.
Inclusion of Sensory Gardens
A sensory garden is a space which invites people to explore, touch, pick, smell and listen, to pay close attention and to interact with the world around them. A well-designed sensory garden connects people with a space. Sensory gardens are used in educational programs to aid learning or within care settings as a restorative or therapeutic tool.
Such spaces are often provided in a hospital, school, family home or care setting where they are designed with a specific group of people in mind. Such spaces can also be planned to be shared by the public in a park or community garden. Sensory gardens can be quiet places which are restful and calming or spaces which are designed to stimulate the senses, to spark adventure and interaction as well as recreational enjoyment.
The recommended sites are as follows:
· Birrung Park, Balmain
· Albert Parade Reserve, Ashfield
· Mallam Reserve, Dulwich Hill
· Crammond Park, Stanmore
· Simpson Park, St Peters
Sensory gardens are also being planned for each new inclusive playground the Council is delivering.
Crown Land
A total of 19 parks contained with the Neighbourhood and Pocket Parks Plan of Management are vested as Crown Land, for which Council is the appointed Crown land manager under the Crown lands Management Act 2016. The Plan of Management must be referred to the Minister for Lands and Property for formal adoption. The Crown Land Management Act also requires that as part of the park Plan of Management planning process that Council seek and provide a copy of Native Title Managers Advice. This will also be sought prior to submitting to the Crown for adoption.
LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS
There are no legal and risk implications associated with this report.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
Each Pocket and Neighbourhood Park possesses distinct features which require varying degrees of funding and all wards have a relatively even distribution of park areas. Projects recommended in the draft Plan of Management will be added and prioritised within the forthcoming Inner West Infrastructure Delivery Plan. The project priorities will be informed by the Low, Medium and High priorities in the Plan of Management. They will then be considered as part of the annual budget planning process based on this prioritisation.
The total estimated cost for Pocket and Neighbourhood Park Upgrades per ward over the life of the Plan of Management are listed below:
|
Ward |
Total Estimated Refurbishment Cost |
|
Baludari (Balmain) |
$4,808,000 |
|
Gulgadya (Leichhardt) |
$3,417,000 |
|
Djarrawuna (Ashfield) |
$2,772,000 |
|
Damun (Stanmore) |
$3,772,000 |
|
Midjuburi (Marrickville) |
$2,174,000 |
Upgrades to smaller pocket parks typically cost up to $160,000 per park Recent examples include Kensington Road Reserve (Ashfield), Wangal Nura Reserve (Leichhardt), and Norton Russell Reserve (Newtown). In contrast, refurbishing larger neighbourhood parks can cost up to $330,000, with Albert Parade Reserve in Ashfield serving as a representative benchmark. Funding for projects in the draft Plan of Management will be considered as a part of the annual budget planning process each year.
Pocket and Neighbourhood Park Works in 2026/27
The prioritisation for pocket parks and neighbourhood parks is set with consideration of asset condition, risk, function, upgrade priorities and available funding. Where renewal funding is relied upon, the works are prioritised when the asset has reached a poor condition. The following pocket and neighbourhood parks are planned for tailored community engagement and refurbishment in the 2026/27 financial year.
|
Park Name |
Allocated Budget |
|
Francis Street Playground |
$120,000 |
|
Brighton Street Reserve |
$150,000 |
|
Park Avenue Playground |
$170,000 |
Attachments 1-8 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.⇨ |
Plan of Management - Appendix A and B - Published Separately on Council’s website |
|
2.⇨ |
C1 Appendix – Baludarri - Published Separately on Council’s website |
|
3.⇨ |
C2 Appendix – Gulgadya - Published Separately on Council’s website |
|
4.⇨ |
C3 Appendix – Djarrawunang - Published Separately on Council’s website |
|
5.⇨ |
C4 Appendix – Damun - Published Separately on Council’s website |
|
6.⇨ |
C5 Appendix – Midjuburi - Published Separately on Council’s website |
|
7.⇨ |
D Appendix - Engagement Outcomes Report - Published Separately on Council’s website |
|
8.⇨ |
D Appendix - Albert Parade Reserve - Published Separately on Council’s website |
|
|
Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Australia Street Parklets
Prepared By: Peter Shields - Acting Director Property and Major Projects
|
RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council endorses the proposal for two new parklets in Australia Street Newtown, noting targeted stakeholder feedback is generally supportive of the planned works.
2. That Council notes that the two proposed parklets in Australia Street are planned to be built by the end of June 2026, subject to the completion of all necessary design and approval activities.
|
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport 3: Creative communities and a strong economy 5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In November 2025 Council resolved to investigate opportunities for additional parklets in Australia Street Newtown. Council completed a feasibility review of possible locations in December 2025 and completed targeted consultation with key stakeholders in January 2026.
In March 2026 Council resolved receive a report in April 2026 providing an update relating to the installation of two accessible parklets in Australia Street, Newtown by June 2026.
The targeted stakeholder engagement relating to the proposed parklet locations included direct engagement with local businesses and residents, NSW Police and NSW Fire and Rescue. Engagement found strong support from nearby businesses, citing improved pedestrian movement by shifting outdoor dining from narrow footpaths and benefits to local trade and community cohesion. Residents and some businesses generally supported parklets provided they are located only in front of cafes or restaurants, remain accessible and include greening. Key concerns raised related to on-street parking impacts and an objection from NSW Police regarding potential impacts to emergency and operational access.
Council is now progressing with the installation of two accessible parklets in Australia Street by June 2026, subject to design and the endorsement of the Local Transport Forum. The parklets are proposed to be located in front of existing cafes or restaurants within existing parking bays fronting 206–208 and 243–245 Australia Street.
This report recommends Council
endorse the ongoing progression of the project to install the parklets, and
notes the works are anticipated to be complete by June 2026.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 18 November 2025, Council resolved the following in part:
1. 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 door knocking and letterboxing.
At the Council meeting held on 17 March 2026, Council resolved the following in part:
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.
DISCUSSION
Following on from the resolutions of the November 2025 Council meeting, Council officers undertook investigations on the feasibility of installing additional parklets on the southern end of Australia Street, Newtown. In accordance with the recommendations of Council these investigations included tailored engagement with local businesses, residents and other identified stakeholders including the NSW Police and Fire Service. Council’s Traffic, Health, Building and Compliance teams were also engaged.
Figure 1 highlights the two optional areas identified for additional parklets in Australia Street. It is noted that one local business already successfully operates a parklet immediately adjacent to 277 Australia Street.
Figure 1. Potential Locations for Additional Parklets in Australia Street Newtown
The proposal depicted in Figure 1 requires the replacement of four 2P Permit Holders Excepted Area M1, 8am – 10pm spaces with temporary parklets to accommodate outdoor dining, gathering and landscaping elements.
Tailored Community Engagement
Councils Public Domain Team undertook tailored engagement involving the following works:
1. Doorknocking local businesses on 14 January 2026 and seeking individual feedback on a proposal for additional parklets.
2. Correspondence and letter box notification with local businesses, emergency services and residents within a 400m radius of the proposed parklet locations.
The outcomes of the tailored community engagement, along with key community feedback is outlined in the following table.
|
Date of the Engagement |
Method of engagement |
Key Feedback |
|
14 January 2026 |
Doorknocked 7 businesses on Australia Street were doorknocked near Lennox Street, most of which are restaurants/cafes. |
All the businesses spoken to were supportive of the idea to replace parking with parklets for outdoor dining uses. The general feedback received was that pedestrians can move more freely without dining tables on the footpath and that the proposed works would be supported as they would support local business trade and community cohesion.
Two businesses raised concerns about illegal parking in the area and lack of loading zones in Australia Street which they feel has exacerbated this issue. |
|
20 January 2026 |
Telephone Call - One Phone call with one business owner and tenants within the property |
The respondent raised concerns in relation to the loss of parking in front of their property and noted that their business would have limited benefits from the provision of a parklets.
Requested the parklets to be limited only in front of restaurants/cafes. |
|
|
Six Emails from residents and businesses, with one from Newtown Police Station |
· Supportive of the idea, thought the parklets can release the pressure that the narrow footpaths currently accommodate for outdoor dining uses. · Requests that Parklets be confined in front of cafes/restaurants only and not encroach into footpaths. Avoid residential entrances and windows. · NSW Police objected due to concerns over parklets hindering emergency/police vehicles · Parklets shall be accessible and open to all, incorporate greening · Loading trucks blocking traffic and footpaths, concern parklets may worsen this without dedicated loading zones · Noted that some of the residential properties are already suffering from congregation, noise, waste and concerns about restaurants patrons at nights. Concerns that parklets may cause additional problems. |
Next Steps
The proposed parklets will be to be confined to the car spaces which front 206-208 Australia Street and 243-245 Australia Street respectively. These locations are located and limited to the frontage of existing restaurants and cafes. Given that the local businesses at these two locations will be directly benefiting from the provision of the parklets it is also recommended that outdoor dining licenses be applied for by the local businesses prior to any Parklet use. As part of the design process the parklets will be made fully accessible, however any outdoor dining furniture would be provided for by local businesses.
In response to the feedback from NSW Police, Council will ensure that, as part of the design process, that any future parklet provision is not wider than the current parking bay and will not intrude into any operational NSW Police parking areas. The parklets will have a concrete jersey kerb installed to delineate and make safe the parklet. The parklet will be constructed with a timber base and accessible ramps to ensure all design requirements are met.
The change of kerbside parking arrangements associated with the proposed interim accessible parklets will require approval from the Inner West Local Transport Forum. Based on the outcomes of the tailored community engagement and noting the objection from the NSW Police, this will provide an opportunity for all feedback to be considered at the Forum.
Following completion of the design and on the basis that endorsement is given at the Local Transport Forum, the parklets can then be constructed in June 2026.
LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS
There are no legal and risk implications associated with this report.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
Council has resolved to install additional Parklets in Australia Street, Newton by June 2026. Following the March 2026 Council Meeting, $60,000 of capital funding has been provisioned within the budget of the 2025/26 financial year for the delivery of the parklets.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Steel Park Companion Animal Off Leash Area
Prepared By: Peter Shields - Acting Director Property and Major Projects
|
RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council approve the establishment of a fenced small dog off leash area within Steel Park Marrickville, located to the west of the existing pedestrian path at Thornley Street.
2. That Council endorse the allocation of $25,000 of capital funding in the 2026/27 financial year to complete all necessary works required to establish the small dog off leash facility.
|
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
4: Healthy, resilient and caring communities 5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Council has resolved to explore the establishment of a fenced small dog off leash area in Steel Park, Marrickville. Currently all dogs must be on a leash to visit Steel Park. There is an unfenced dog off leash park at HJ Mahoney Memorial Park, approximately 400 metres away from Steel Park.
Council has developed two options that provide for a small dog off leash area in Steel Park. These options are in the north area of the park away from the sports fields. Community engagement has been completed based on these proposed options. 61% of survey respondents supported one of the proposed small dog off leash fenced areas, and the majority of these respondents preferred the area located to the west of the existing pedestrian path at Thornley Street.
Community engagement for the proposal has shown mixed views. This includes concerns that another unfenced off leash facility is nearby, that only small dogs are catered for by this proposal and there is ongoing interest for all dogs to be off-leash on the Steel Park sports field.
It is considered that, on balance, Council should provide a small dog off leash fenced area as this is supported by the majority of respondents, it is relatively low cost and provides an off leash separation arrangement between small and large dogs.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 25 June 2024, Council resolved the following in part:
1. That Council undertake community engagement on options for the introduction of a new off-leash area at Steel Park for smaller dogs (under 10kg) as highlighted in Figure 1.2 of the report.
2. That upon the establishment of the new off-leash area at Steel Park, Council undertake a compliance and educational program at both Steel Park and Mahoney Reserve in relation to regulations pertaining to off-leash usage.
Two different options were proposed for a designated small dog off leash area within Steel Park, in the section of the park beside Thorney Street. Both options are fenced and are located away from the sporting fields.
Option 1 is a fenced area west of the pedestrian path alongside the Thornley Street carpark (Figure 1). This option incorporates the existing bench seat and drinking fountain within the fenced area.
Option 2 is a fenced area east of the pedestrian path and adjacent to 16 Thornley Street (Figure 2). This option does not incorporate the existing bench seat and drinking fountain within the fenced area.
Figure 1 – Fenced area west of the pedestrian path (Option 1)
Figure 2 – Fenced area east of the pedestrian path (Option 2)
DISCUSSION
Community Engagement
From 28 August to 26 September 2025, the community was invited to provide feedback on a proposal for the creation of a small dog off-leash area at Steel Park in Marrickville. Engagement was undertaken via Council’s Your Say Project Page with local residents and park users notified through postal flyers and also through temporary signage in the park. In addition, onsite community engagement was held at Steel Park on Saturday 6 September 2026 from 11am to 12:30pm.
The full results of the community engagement process are detailed in Attachment 1.
During the engagement period, 686 people visited the Your Say project page. A total of 59 individuals provided a response, with 56 responses received for the online survey and 3 email responses. A total of 31 people attended the drop-in engagement session held at Steel Park on Saturday 6 September 2025.
In summary, 61% of the survey respondents supported a small dog off leash option. 36% of respondents supported Option1, Option 2 received 25% support and a total of 39% supported neither option proposed.
In addition to the Your Say Survey, 3 email submissions were also received from community members. These submissions are provided in the following table, along with a Council officer response to the issues raised.
|
Email Submission |
Matter Raised |
Council Officer Response |
|
Respondent 1 |
What was the outcome of this Proposal? |
Council will consider this matter at the March 2026 Ordinary Council meeting. |
|
Respondent 2 |
Fenced off-leash Area will encourage excess traffic |
The small dog off leash area planned is complement existing companion access needs and is not expected to generate any additional traffic impacts on the parkland. |
|
Respondent 3 |
Everywhere is “accessible” dogs on leash-Owners should walk too. If a fenced area is introduced Option1 is preferred however to amend to not include seat or water fountain. |
The proposed area already has seating and the water foundation, however should the proposal proceed, new facilities including seating and a water bubbler will be included in any adopted design. |
Policy and Spatial Planning Considerations
Section 5.3 of the Inner West Council Dog Off‑Leash Areas in Parks Policy, states that “new off‑leash areas will not generally be fenced.”
A fenced dog off‑leash area can contribute to unsafe or undesirable outcomes, including:
· Owners or walkers (paid or unpaid) assuming the enclosure reduces their responsibility to actively monitor their dog.
· Use of the space to contain disobedient, territorial or unsocialised dogs that do not respond to commands.
· A dog off leash park for only small dogs difficult to enforce and may create unrealistic community expectations and also carry a risk of reputational damage if incidents occur.
Within the Marrickville ward area there is already five off‑leash areas, including HJ Mahoney Reserve (approximately 400 metres from the proposed location) and McNeilly Park (approximately 820 metres away). The forthcoming review of the Inner West Recreation Strategy will consider the position of all existing dog off leash facilities and the service level provided. At that time it is anticipated that certain areas where a service gap exists will be prioritised for future additional dog off leash facilities.
Provision of a Small Dog Off Leash Area
Community engagement has highlighted that the majority of respondents support a small dog fenced off leash area at Steel Park, however there were mixed views expressed during the consultation.
It is becoming common place for Councils to provide off leash facilities dedicated for small dogs separate to large dogs. Separate areas can reduce the risk of injury and stress to dogs who visit these facilities. A space at least 3000 square metres is generally considered appropriate to provide for both small and large dogs to be fenced. There is no feasible space with an adequate size to cater for large dogs that can be fenced in Steel Park (separate to the sports field). If Council provides a small dog facility at Steel Park, there remains provision for large dogs to be separate and off leash in HJ Mahoney Reserve.
Option 1 proposed in the community consultation was considered the preferred option. It is a flatter area than option 2, and it is also a further distance away from nearby residential properties. It is an adequate size to cater for small dogs and does not require the relation of any existing park paths.
The capital cost to provide a small dog off leash area in Steel Park would be up to $25,000. This would allow for all seating, fencing, signage and any localised surfacing works.
It is recommended that a small dog off leash space is delivered in the 2026/27 financial year. This approach is supported by the majority of survey respondents, it can be delivered for a relatively low cost, and it provides off leash separation between small dogs and large dogs.
LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS
There are no legal and risk implications associated with this report.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
The capital cost to provide a small dog off leash facility in Steel Park has been estimated to be $25,000. Capital funding can be provisioned in the 2026/27 financial year to fund the proposal.
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.⇨ |
Engagement Outcomes Report - Steel Park Dog Off-Leash - Published Separately on Council’s website |
|
|
Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Stanmore Library - New Community and Public Space
Prepared By: Ruth Callaghan - Director Community
|
RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council endorses further development of the concept design for a community centre at Stanmore Library and new public space.
2. That the developed concept including cost estimates and timeline be reported back to Council by December 2026.
|
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report addresses progress on two Council priorities for the 2024-28 term (endorsed 22 October 2024):
· Deliver a community centre at Stanmore Library
· Investigate a new public space for community gatherings in Stanmore
This report presents a preliminary spatial concept for a flexible community space at Stanmore Reserve. The concept includes a community meeting room, a small meeting room, accessible toilets and a kitchenette. The space can open up into Stanmore Reserve for small events.
The report recommends that Council note the preliminary concept and approve the progression to detailed design, including development of the budget and timeline, with outcomes to be reported back to Council. Pending the Council decision, the concept would be placed on public exhibition. Pending the results of Council decisions and the response from the community, it is proposed that construction of the additional space could be completed by June 2028.
A future capital allocation of $200,000 is identified for 2026/27 and $400,000 in 2027/28. This allocation could support further development of the project. However, it is not sufficient to fully deliver the project. Any decision to progress beyond concept development would be subject to further Council reports, detailed project costings, funding approval and statutory planning processes. The current budget does not consider any future contributions funding / plans.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 22 October 2024, Council noted and endorsed Councillor priorities for the term, including an action to investigate a community centre at Stanmore Library and the complementary Council priority to investigate a new public space for community gatherings in Stanmore.
Officers engaged an architect to prepare a preliminary, high-level spatial concept to test opportunities and constraints associated with the site.
Stanmore Library
Stanmore Library, located in Stanmore Reserve, Douglas Street, Stanmore was built in 1981 as a temporary building, following a fire. Stanmore Library is Council’s smallest library at 200 sqm and is a well-used neighbourhood branch that serves as a local community hub for borrowing, study and work, and children’s and community programming. Key 2024–25 statistics are:
· Visits: 31,919 per year (≈2,660 per month).
· Loans: 21,498 per year (≈1,792 per month).
· Returns: 24,523 per year (≈2,044 per month).
· Reservations: 7,175 per year (≈598 per month).
· Information desk queries: 15,671 per year (≈1,306 per month).
· Program attendees: 4,700 per year (≈390 per month).
Community Asset Needs Strategies
The Inner West Community Asset Needs Strategy 2021-2036 identifies Catchment 3 (East), which includes Stanmore, as an area experiencing increasing pressure on community infrastructure due to high population density and cumulative growth across the catchment. The Strategy highlights growing demand for flexible, accessible community spaces that support social connection, learning and participation, particularly in high density neighbourhoods such as Stanmore. It supports integrated and colocated approaches that strengthen the community asset network and improve access, utilisation and long-term sustainability of facilities.
It is forecasted that Stanmore’s population will increase by 10% (around 811 people) between 2016 and 2036. Since the Strategy was published, State and local planning settings have changed substantially. Dwelling and population forecasts are therefore being reviewed and may exceed the Strategy’s forecast.
DISCUSSION
Scope and Objectives of the Concept Design
Officers engaged a local architectural firm to prepare a preliminary, high-level spatial concept to test opportunities and constraints at the site whilst retaining the existing library. The brief was limited to early, non-detailed exploration to inform Council’s consideration of future options for the priority of building a community space.
Scope for the concept included:
· Early spatial layouts and massing concepts to test how the existing library could incorporate a community meeting space.
· Investigation of flexible, multipurpose facilities to support meetings, programs and small-scale community events.
· Identification of opportunities to improve accessibility, entries, circulation and amenities.
· Exploration of stronger physical and visual connections between the building and Stanmore Reserve, including options to support performances and events in the park.
Summary of the Concept Proposal
The attached concept explores how the existing library could be expanded to include a community hall and supporting spaces while retaining the current library building. The proposal locates the new community space away from significant trees, seeks to maximise northern orientation for best use of light and ventilation, and proposes improved wayfinding and access, with associated reconfiguration of the existing library floor space.
Key elements of the concept include:
· A link between the existing library and the new hall that allows the spaces to operate independently or together and does not preclude future redevelopment, replacement or removal of the existing library building.
· A community gathering and multipurpose space suitable for approximately 40 to 50 people (58m²) adjacent to the path so that it can open up for small events.
· A smaller meeting room for up to six people.
· A kitchenette and dedicated furniture storage.
· Improved accessibility, including upgraded entries, circulation and accessible bathrooms.
· Reconfiguration of the existing library floor space to accommodate changes to entry and exit points, affecting circulation and shelving.
· Improved physical and visual connections between the library, the new community space and Stanmore Reserve.
Next Steps
If Council supports further investigation of the proposal, the following steps are recommended:
· Procurement of an Architect to do undertake detailed design by October 2026.
· Report to Council in December 2026 providing detailed design and cost estimates for endorsement to proceed to community engagement;
It should be noted that any decision to proceed beyond the preliminary concept design would be subject to further Council reports, funding approval and statutory planning processes.
LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS
· Open space impact: The concept would result in some reduction of parkland within Stanmore Reserve.
· Community expectations: The development of a new community facility may raise expectations regarding broader upgrade or replacement of the existing library, which is outside the scope of the current concept.
· Compliance requirements and condition reporting: Any further investigation or new works may require additional regulatory, Building Code compliance or building condition assessments for the existing facility, subject to further due diligence.
There are no legal implications associated with this report.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
A future capital allocation of $200,000 is identified for 2026/27 and $400,000 in 2027/28. This allocation may support further concept development and associated technical investigations and professional services (for example, arborist advice, geotechnical investigations and other specialist inputs), but it is not sufficient to fully deliver the project.
Upon further investigation of the site and the development of the plans, a cost estimator would be able to provide an accurate estimate of the funds required for the project for Council’s consideration.
CONCLUSION
The concept design provides an early, high-level exploration of how a community centre could be accommodated at Stanmore Library in response to an endorsed Councillor priority. It provides a basis for informed discussion, further investigation and community engagement to progress this Council priority.
|
1.⇩ |
Stanmore Library Community Centre Concept Design for Expansion |
|
Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Post Exhibition - Complaints Handling Policy
Prepared By: Sharon Bowman - Director Corporate
|
RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council adopt the revised Complaints Handling Policy.
2. That Council update the Policy Register and publish the adopted Complaints Handling Policy.
|
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
On 17 February 2026, Council resolved to place an updated draft Complaints Handling Policy on public exhibition.
Two submissions were received during the exhibition period:
· An external submission raised general concerns about the Policy; and
· An internal submission supported the policy but requested that it clarify the management of complaints relating to Council‑issued fines.
It is proposed that the policy be adopted with a minor amendment to the Guiding Principles to clarify that requests to manage or review Council-issued fines are to be directed to Service NSW.
It is recommended that Council adopt the Complaints Handling Policy with the proposed amendment.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 17 February 2026, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council place the draft Complaints Handling Policy on public exhibition for 28 days prior to adoption.
2. That Council consider the results of the public exhibition process when adopting the final Complaints Handling Policy.
The draft Complaints Handling Policy was subsequently placed on public exhibition from 23 February 2026 to 22 March 2026, via the Your Say Inner West platform.
DISCUSSION
The exhibition attracted 147 page visits, resulting in two submissions – one via the Your Say Inner West platform and the other via email. No submissions were received by mail or phone.
Submission details are provided below:
|
Support (Yes or No) |
Public Exhibition Comment/Explanation |
IWC Comment |
|
No |
Another excruciatingly verbose policy that will do little other than let Council hide behind as it ignores complaints. Source: Have your Say Inner West. |
The submission was acknowledged by email on 20 March 2026, advising that the Complaint Handling Policy and supporting standards aim to assist staff in the consistent management of complaints and feedback. The email also confirmed that customer feedback is valued in supporting service improvements and invited contact if further discussion is needed. |
|
Yes |
Include the management of complaints received addressing the management of Council-issued fines. Source: internal submission via email. |
The proposal was supported following consultation with relevant service units and the Internal Ombudsman Shared Service (IOSS). |
After reviewing the feedback, it is proposed to amend the publicly exhibited Policy with the following addition:
Manage Complaints
|
Penalty Notices |
For assistance on how to manage or review a fine, refer to Service NSW. |
This proposed amendment follows consultation with the IOSS, the Senior Manager Health and Building, and the Parking & Ranger Services Manager.
LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS
There are no legal or risk implications associated with this report.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
Implementation of the proposed recommendations has no financial impact.
|
1.⇩ |
Inner West Council Complaints Handling Policy |
|
2.⇩ |
Overview Report - Your Say Inner West March 2026 |
|
Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee - 26 November 2025 Minutes
Prepared By: Sharon Bowman - Director Corporate
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council adopt the minutes of the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee meeting held on 26 November 2025. |
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
|
|
BACKGROUND
Council’s ARIC is established in accordance with section 428A of the Local Government Act 1993. Its objective is to provide independent assurance to Council by monitoring, reviewing, and providing advice about Council’s governance processes, compliance, risk management and control frameworks, external accountability obligations, and overall performance.
The ARIC’s Terms of Reference require the minutes of ARIC meetings to be provided to Council and published to Council’s website after adoption by Council.
DISCUSSION
Council’s ARIC approved the minutes of the meeting held on 26 November 2025 out of session and confirmed the minutes at the meeting held on 19 March 2026. The minutes record the outcomes of ARIC’s monitoring and review of key operational functions within Council, and make no substantive recommendations for Council’s consideration.
These minutes are now presented to Council for adoption.
LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS
There are no legal and risk implications associated with this report.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
|
1.⇩ |
Audit Risk and Improvement Committee Meeting - Minutes - 26 November 2025 |
|
|
Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Legal Status Update
Prepared By: Matthew Pearce - General Counsel
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RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council receive Confidential Attachment 1 and note that during the reporting period: a) There were 84 active litigation matters in the Land and Environment Court, Local Court and New South Wales Civil and Administration Tribunal; b) 21 Land and Environment Court Class 1 Appeals were finalised; and c) 5 Local Court prosecutions resulted in convictions and fines totalling $25,514; d) Council recovered $981,150 of professional costs from litigation matters during the current financial year.
2. That Council consider the publication of this Confidential item, on Council’s website after 31 December 2027, subject to prior consultation with affected parties.
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
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5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
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DISCUSSION
Council will move into closed session to consider the Legal Status Report. Information contained in the Report is classified as confidential under Section 10A(2)(g) of the Local Government Act 1993. The matter is deemed confidential, as the matter contains advice concerning litigation, or advice that would otherwise be privileged from production in legal proceedings on the ground of legal professional privilege.
Pursuant to section 10A(2), 10(2) and 10A(3) of the Local Government Act 1993, the media and public will be excluded from the meeting on the basis that the business to be considered is classified as confidential under section 10A(2)(d)(g) of the Local Government Act 1993.
PUBLICATION OF CONFIDENTIAL BUSINESS PAPER
The Model Code of Meeting Practice prescribed by the Office of Local Government, and Council’s Code of Meeting Practice, requires confidential business papers to be published on Council’s website as soon as practicable after the information in the business papers ceases to be confidential. Council’s General Manager must consult with affected parties before publishing the information, and provide reasons for why the information has ceased to be confidential.
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Confidential Report - Legal Status Update - Confidential This attachment is confidential in accordance to advice concerning litigation, or advice (Section 10A(2)(g) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would otherwise be privileged from production in legal proceedings on the ground of legal professional privilege. |
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Litigation Matters as at 27 March 2026 - Confidential This attachment is confidential in accordance to advice concerning litigation, or advice (Section 10A(2)(g) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would otherwise be privileged from production in legal proceedings on the ground of legal professional privilege. |
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Fuel Continuity Plan
Prepared By: Manod Wickramasinghe - Acting Director Engineering
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RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council receive the report and note that the General Manager will provide further updates to Councillors should circumstances change.
2. That Council consider the publication of the confidential report attached to this business paper on Council’s website after six months, subject to consultation with affected any parties.
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
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1: An ecologically sustainable Inner West 5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
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DISCUSSION
Council will move into a closed session to deal with the Fuel Continuity Plan, 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.
PUBLICATION OF CONFIDENTIAL BUSINESS PAPER
The Model Code of Meeting Practice prescribed by the Office of Local Government, and Council’s Code of Meeting Practice, requires confidential business papers to be published on Council’s website as soon as practicable after the information in the business papers ceases to be confidential. Council’s General Manager must consult with affected parties before publishing the information and provide reasons for why the information has ceased to be confidential.
Accordingly, this report recommends that Council consider the publication of the confidential report attached to business paper after six months, subject to consultation with any affected parties.
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Confidential Report - Fuel Continuity Plan - Confidential This attachment is confidential in accordance to information (Section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business. |
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre Upgrade - Project Status Update
Prepared By: Peter Shields - Acting Director Property and Major Projects
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RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive and note the report which details the following progress since the last report:
1. Negotiations have proceeded and continue for the subject matter of the tender with the intention of appointing a contractor in the near future. These negotiations are subject to commercial in confidence requirements, with an update provided in Confidential Attachment 1.
2. That Council consider the publication of this Confidential item 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.
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
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1: An ecologically sustainable Inner West 2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport 4: Healthy, resilient and caring communities |
In mid-2023 Council commenced a comprehensive upgrade of the Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre over two stages. Stage one is now complete and stage 2 is soon to commence construction. Stage 2 includes new 50‑metre pool, 25‑metre pool with movable floor, spectator seating, accessibility improvements, landscaping, shade structures and a new playground. Given the substantive nature of the works a report is provided to every meeting of Council confirming progress since the previous report.
In the February 2026 Council meeting Council resolved 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. Negotiations are continuing and are subject to commercial confidentiality. Progress updates will continue to be provided to each Council meeting, with a final report to be presented to Council upon completion of negotiations.
BACKGROUND
The Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre was constructed in the early 1960s and has continued to be highly valued facility by the community. The existing 50 metre pool and dive pool have both reached the end of their useful asset life. In 2023 Council committed to a comprehensive upgrade to revitalise the facility. This transformation will ensure the Leichhardt Aquatic Centre remains a vibrant and sustainable hub for the community for the next 50 years and beyond.
Council has appointed external consultants to provide architectural design, project management and project assurance services who each have demonstratable experience and capability to successfully support the delivery of the project.
CO.OP Studios were appointed as the lead design consultant for both stages of the project in mid-2023 to provide all architectural and engineering design services. CO.OP Studios 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 a wealth of experience in delivering aquatic centre projects.
There is a comprehensive project assurance and governance framework being applied to the project. Council appointed Turner and Townsend as the Project Assurance Consultant in late 2023 to have oversight of both project stages to ensure the highest standards of project integrity and risk management. Turner and Townsend 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 & Woollard has been appointed as the projects Quantity Surveyor to prepare cost estimates. The Quantity Surveyor services also continue through the project 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
The Stage 1 works included the refurbishment of the Mushroom Pool, a new splash play area,
and mechanical and HVAC upgrades. Construction of Stage 1 works commenced in April 2025 and are now complete. An official opening was held on 15 February 2026.
The Stage 2 works 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 50 metre and 25 metre 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.
DISCUSSION
Stage 2 of the project remains in the detailed design and contractor engagement phase. Following the closure of the selective tender process in early November 2025, tenders were assessed through December 2025 and January 2026. At the February 2026 Council meeting, Council resolved 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.
Following this resolution, Council has commenced negotiations with the relevant tenderers, which are ongoing and subject to strict commercial‑in‑confidence requirements. Progress updates will continue to be provided through the monthly Council reporting cycle, with a further report to be presented to Council upon completion of negotiations detailing the outcome and updated program information.
A comprehensive project governance framework is in place, overseen by highly experienced external project managers, project assurance specialists and quantity surveyors with expertise in pool construction. This governance structure will be carried forward into the negotiation phase, ensuring that the right subject matter experts continue to work collaboratively to achieve optimal outcomes, oversighted by Council’s Director Property and Major Projects, Manager Major Projects and Council’s Senior Lawyer, with point of escalation and final sign off by the General Manager.
LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS
Refer to Confidential Attachment 1.
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. 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. A total project budget of $55,934,000 is allocated for both stage 1 and stage 2 of this project.
PUBLICATION OF CONFIDENTIAL BUSINESS PAPER
The Model Code of Meeting Practice prescribed by the Office of Local Government, and Council’s Code of Meeting Practice, requires confidential business papers to be published on Council’s website as soon as practicable after the information in the business papers ceases to be confidential. Council’s General Manager must consult with affected parties before publishing the information and provide reasons for why the information has ceased to be confidential.
Accordingly, this report recommends that Council consider the publication of this business paper, and Confidential Attachment 1, following the completion of the LPAC Stage 2 Upgrade (end of defects liability period), subject to consultation with affected parties.
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Confidential Report - Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre - Project Status Update - 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; 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. |
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Leichhardt Oval Refurbishment - Construction Works Expression of Interest
Prepared By: Peter Shields - Acting Director Property and Major Projects
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RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council adopt the recommendations contained in Confidential Attachment 1.
2. That Council consider the publication of this Confidential Item, on Council’s website after the completion (end of defects liability period) of the Leichhardt Oval Refurbishment, subject to consultation with affected parties.
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
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2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport 4: Healthy, resilient and caring communities |
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BACKGROUND
The Leichhardt Oval Refurbishment Project involves refurbishment and upgrade works to Leichhardt Oval facilities. The project scope includes refurbishment of the Western Grandstand, upgrades to the lower seating bowl, and construction of a new Northern Grandstand.
DISCUSSION
Council will move into closed session to deal with the Leichhardt Oval Refurbishment Construction EOI, for information which is classified as confidential under section 10A(2)(c) (of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business. Pursuant to section 10A(2), 10(2) and 10A(3) of the Local Government Act 1993, the media and public will be excluded from the meeting on the basis that the business to be considered is classified as confidential under section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993.
PUBLICATION OF CONFIDENTIAL BUSINESS PAPER
The Model Code of Meeting Practice prescribed by the Office of Local Government, and Council’s Code of Meeting Practice, requires confidential business papers to be published on Council’s website as soon as practicable after the information in the business papers ceases to be confidential. Council’s General Manager must consult with affected parties before publishing the information and provide reasons for why the information has ceased to be confidential.
Accordingly, this report recommends that Council consider the publication of this business paper, and Confidential Attachments 1 and 2, following the completion of the Leichhardt Oval Refurbishment (end of defects liability period), subject to consultation with affected parties.
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Confidential Report - Leichhardt Oval Refurbishment - Construction Works Expression of Interest - 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; 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. |
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Leichhardt Oval Refurbishment - Construction Works Expression of Interest - Evaluation Panel Detailed Report - Confidential This attachment is confidential in accordance to information (Section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business; 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. |
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Leichhardt Oval Refurbishment - Project Status Update
Prepared By: Peter Shields - Acting Director Property and Major Projects
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RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive and note the report which details the following progress since the last report:
1. The State Significant Development Application public exhibition has closed. A response has subsequently been provided to the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure on all submissions received.
2. The detailed design is progressing for the western grandstand, northern grandstand and lower bowl seating, supported by specialist consultants.
3. The procurement process to appoint a suitably qualified and experienced contractor to finalise the design and undertake the works continues, with the public Expression of Interest completed and evaluated. A separate report on this procurement will be provided to the April Council Meeting.
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
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2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport 4: Healthy, resilient and caring communities |
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Council adopted the masterplan Leichhardt Oval in late 2023 and is now proceeding to build a new northern grandstand, refurbish the western grandstand, enhance the lower seating bowl and other related infrastructure. Given the substantive nature of the works a report is provided to every meeting of Council confirming progress since the previous report.
The project continues to operate under a strong governance and assurance framework. The program remains on track, with planning approval targeted for August 2026, construction scheduled to commence in October 2026, and completion anticipated in early 2028.
Key items of progress for updating from the last status update report are:
· The 80% project design is now close to completion. The project team have continued to challenge design outcomes to limit project cost implications. This version of the design will be referenced in the Request for Tender.
· The NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure completed the public exhibition of the State Significant Development Application, compiled all submissions and sought a response from the Project Team. A response has since been provided.
· The Expression of Interest process to identify and shortlist suitable contractors to tender for the works is now complete.
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, Council resolved the following:
That Council endorse the Leichhardt Oval renovation final design concepts April 2025 (Attachment 1 of the Council report) and proceed with preparing detailed plans in order to seek planning approval.
This resulted in a project scope to the:
· Western Grandstand Player Amenities
· Western Grandstand – modern facilities for spectators, sponsors and media
· Lower Seating Bowl – All new ‘stadium type’ seating to ensure safety and compliance
· New Northern Grandstand
Council has engaged external consultants with demonstrated expertise in delivering complex infrastructure projects to support the Leichhardt Oval Refurbishment.
Ernst & Young (EY) has been appointed to provide project management services. EY’s Sydney-based division has a strong track record in delivering major sports and recreational infrastructure across NSW, including Allianz Stadium, CommBank Stadium, and the new Penrith Stadium.
Cox Architecture has been 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 a Project Control Group, Major Capital Projects Committee, Audit Risk and Improvement Committee and Inner West Council meetings.
DISCUSSION
Design Development
The Leichhardt Oval Refurbishment project remains in the design phase, with its high‑level scope confirmed at the April 2025 Council meeting through endorsement of the final design concepts.
The 80% Design Package prepared for the works is close to completion. The project team have continued refining the design toward finalising a preliminary detailed design package. The design also considers future needs for the venue in keeping with the masterplan and ensures there is adequate space and provision made for these future needs and operating requirements.
Approvals
The project is continuing through the State Significant Development process, with the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) as the approval authority. The State Significant Development Application was formally lodged in late December 2025, and DPHI placed the application on public exhibition from 16 January to 12 February 2026. The community and other government agencies provided feedback on the proposed design through the DPHI website which will make up part of the assessment process.
Following this period, the submissions have been compiled by the Department. Submissions have since been provided to the project team, with responses subsequently submitted to the Department as part of the assessment process.
Procurement
The procurement process to appoint a suitably qualified and experienced contractor to finalise the design and undertake the works is ongoing. A public Expression of Interest was released on 27 February 2026 and closed on 23 March 2026, with submissions now assessed by the evaluation panel. A separate report on the outcome of the procurement process is being provided to Council, with the intention of shortlisting suitably qualified contractors to participate in a select tender process and appoint a contractor.
It is anticipated that tender documentation will be prepared in May and the Request for Tender will be issued to shortlisted tenderers in June 2026. Council would then receive a report by September 2026 where a tenderer is recommended to be appointed to deliver the project.
Program
The overall program remains unchanged, with planning approval targeted for August 2026. This will enable procurement and contractor mobilisation ahead of construction commencement in October 2026, with completion anticipated in early 2028.
The high-level project program is presented below:
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Activity |
Target Completion |
Status |
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Project Planning Scope Confirmation |
May 2025 |
Completed |
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Consultant Engagements |
August 2025 |
Completed |
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Lodgement of SSD Application |
December 2025 |
Completed |
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Complete 80% design for tender |
April 2026 |
In progress |
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Planning Approval |
August 2026 |
In progress |
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Procurement |
August 2026 |
In progress |
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Contract award and execution |
September 2026 |
Future |
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Construction commences on-site |
October 2026 |
Future |
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Construction complete |
Early 2028 |
Future |
LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS
There are appropriate risk management measures in place for this project with independent project assurance, an external project management and the quantity surveyor involved in each stage of the project. Council’s contract lawyer will be involved in the preparation of the tender documentation and the construction contract once a tender is awarded.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
Council officers, together with EY, Cox Architecture and key technical consultants including RLB, have undertaken a comprehensive cost‑assurance exercise for the project. Through ongoing value‑engineering activities, the team has continued to refine the project’s design, scope and cost profile, ensuring that financial parameters accurately reflect detailed technical requirements.
Value‑engineering and scope‑refinement efforts have focused on minimising capital and future operational costs while maintaining functional performance. This has included assessing structural efficiencies, optimising building services, refining operational layouts, evaluating alternative systems and materials, and identifying potential staging opportunities. Collectively, these measures support prudent financial management by pursuing cost efficiencies without compromising asset quality or longevity.
As the project has continued to progress through the detailed design, clearer definition of structural, services, accessibility and operational requirements have strengthened the definition of project scope and reduced risks for tenderers in pricing specified works. Initial cost estimates for the Western Grandstand, lower seating bowl and Northern Grandstand were set at approximately $50 million.
Council had previously allocated $40 million for this project in the 2025/2026 Long Term Financial, noting any additional funding beyond the $40 million allocation would be expended in the 2027/28 financial year. Council’s Chief Financial Officer has confirmed that $10 million of developer contributions funding will be available for use, with any remaining funding to be sourced from the depreciation reserve as a significant portion of the work involves the replacement of an aging asset. As time progresses other funding sources may provide an alternative funding source for the allocated budget, including grant funding.
The Request For Tender will be arranged into separable portions. Separable portions will enable Council to consider the cost of specific items alongside the project scope and funding for the project. Once the tenders are evaluated, the Chief Financial Officer will confirm final funding arrangements and this information will be reported to Council when a recommendation to award the tender is being made.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Mandatory Reporting to Council of Reports Received from Fire & Rescue NSW for 6 Properties
Prepared By: Simone Plummer - Director Planning
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RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive the report and note the following in regards to each property;
a) 35-41 Addison Road Marrickville – no further action as all required works have been satisfactorily completed as per FRNSW requirements;
b) 328 Liverpool Road Ashfield – a Development Control Order has been issued in order to ensure appropriate rectification of the single remaining unresolved issue identified by FRNSW;
c) 481 King Street Newtown – a Development Control Order has been issued in order to ensure appropriate rectification of the single remaining unresolved issue identified by FRNSW;
d) 22 Glen Street Marrickville - a Development Control Order has been issued in order to ensure appropriate rectification of works as identified by FRNSW;
e) 260a Liverpool Road Ashfield – no further action as all required works have been satisfactorily completed as per FRNSW requirements; and
f) 338 Illawarra Road Marrickville – formal referral to Homes NSW by Council has taken place as Council is not the regulator in this instance.
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
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4: Healthy, resilient and caring communities |
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, when an inspection report is received by Council from Fire and Rescue New South Wales (FRNSW), Council must table this report and recommendations at the next meeting of the Council.
Council received the following reports from FRNSW:
· 35-41 Addison Road Marrickville – received 25 February 2026 (Attachment 1).
· 328 Liverpool Road Ashfield – received 26 February 2026 (Attachment 2).
· 481 King Street Newtown – received 26 February 2026 (Attachment 3).
· 22 Glen Street Marrickville – received 3 March 2026 (Attachment 4).
· 260a Liverpool Road Ashfield – received 20 March 2026 (Attachment 5).
· 338 Illawarra Road Marrickville – received 20 March 2026 (Attachment 6).
The appropriate follow up action has been taken in each instance as outlined in this report.
DISCUSSION
35-41 Addison Road Marrickville
The property is a five storey mixed use, commercial and residential building comprising a total of 61 social and affordable rental units, along with a single level of basement car park.
The premises are registered on Council’s Annual Fire Safety Statement Register under reference AFS/05029. The most recent AFSS submitted to Council was dated 3 December 2025, given that this statement was issued within a few months of concerns identified in the FRNSW report (received 26 February 2026), copy of the report and AFSS has been provided to the building owners and Fire Protection Association Australia (FPAA) for consideration.
The FRNSW report received by Council identified the following fire safety issues:
· Chairs partially obstructing the free passage of persons in multiple fire-isolated exits.
· The pictogram for the exit sign was missing above the southern exit door to Addison Road on the ground floor
· The Manual Call Point located at the Fire Indicator Panel has been disabled since 16 February 2026.
On 10 March 2026, Council’s Senior Fire Safety Officer conducted a final inspection and determined that all required works had been satisfactorily completed as per FRNSW requirements. Accordingly, the circumstances did not warrant the initiation of enforcement action.
328 Liverpool Road Ashfield
The property is a newly constructed eight storey residential flat building. An occupation certificate has since been issued for the development which prompted the premises to be added to the register. The premises are registered on Council’s Annual Fire Safety Statement Register under reference AFS/2336. The next Annual Fire Safety Statement is due 26 June 2026.
The FRNSW report received by Council identified the following fire safety issues:
· The Smoke Detection and Alarm Panel identified 4 disablements and detectors were found covered with dust caps
· The Fire Hydrant System isolation valve located in the pumproom on the large bore suction connection pipework was secured in a closed position and signed as being “normally closed”
· Fire doors throughout Block B fire stairs were found to be jamming which prevented them from being self-closing
· Block A ground floor fire door to the stairs did not self-close or latch shut
· Copper pipework passing through the floor between the Basement Level 1 (above carapace 311) and ground floor did not appear to be protected from the spread of fire through services penetration.
On 3 March 2026, Council’s Senior Fire Safety Officer and FRNSW conducted an inspection where it was determined that the owner had actively rectified the majority of issues initially raised by FRNSW. As a result, a Notice of Intention to serve a Development Compliance Order - Ref. no. EPA/2026/0025, only requiring rectification works to the copper pipework / services penetration. The notification period (21 days) has since expired, and a Development Control Order issued which requires the rectification of this matter within a 60-day timeframe.
It is anticipated that the rectification works identified by FRNSW are achievable through the timeframes imposed in Council’s enforcement process.
481 King Street Newtown
The property is a two storey mixed-use building comprising a 7 room boarding house (Class 3) and a ground-floor retail shop (Class 6). The premises is registered on Council’s Annual Fire Safety Statement register (AFS/05155).
On 17 February 2026 Council’s Senior Fire Safety Officer conducted a joint inspection with FRNSW at their request, where the following fire safety issues were identified:
· Multiple doors serving as, or forming part of, a required exit were not provided with exit signs.
· The final exit door exiting to King Street swings against the direction of egress.
· Emergency lighting was not installed in the passageway from the Sole Occupancy Units at the rear of the property
· The battery fault light was showing on the Fire Detection Control and Indicating Equipment and could not provide standby power
· An Annual Fire Safety Statement was not prominently displayed at the premises.
As a result of the joint inspection, Council received the FRNSW inspection report on 2 March 2026 which determined that the circumstances warranted the issue of a Notice of Intention to serve a Development Control Order - Ref. no. EPA/2026/0023.
Written representations were received during the 21-day notification period, resulting in an additional inspection undertaken on 11 March 2026 by Council’s Senior Fire Safety Officer. The reinspection revealed that the owner had actively rectified the majority of issues initially raised at the joint inspection. As a result, a Development Control Order has been issued, the only requirement being works to install exit signs which were not identified in the original Fire Safety Schedule within a 30-day timeframe.
It is anticipated that the rectification works identified by FRNSW are achievable through the timeframes imposed in Council’s enforcement process.
22 Glen Street Marrickville
The property is a four storey residential building comprising of car parking at ground level with residential sole occupancy units above. The premises is currently not registered on Council’s AFSS register. Once the upgrade works are completed through the enforcement process, the premises will be added to the register which will ensure the ongoing maintenance of the fire safety measures via the submission of an Annual Fire Safety Statement (AFSS).
The FRNSW report received by Council identified the following fire safety issues:
· The building exceeds 500m² in floor area and is not provided with the required fire sprinkler and fire hydrant systems.
· Public corridors are not provided with smoke alarms connected to a building occupant warning system.
· Entry doors to Units 8 and 9 are not fire‑rated.
· Multiple units have non‑compliant screen security doors installed.
· Ground‑floor exit doors swing against the direction of egress
· Emergency lighting is not installed in the non‑fire‑isolated stairway.
· Exit signage is not installed within the premises.
· The top‑floor landing balustrade is under 1 m in height and therefore non‑compliant.
On 10 March 2026 Council’s Senior Fire Safety Officer conducted an inspection where it was determined that the circumstances warranted the issue of a Notice of Intention to serve a Development Control Order - Ref. no. EPA/2026/0034. The notification period (21 days) has since expired and a Development Control Order issued which requires the rectification of the items raised within an 8-month timeframe.
It is anticipated that the rectification works identified by FRNSW are achievable through the timeframes imposed in Council’s enforcement process.
260a Liverpool Road Ashfield – Ashfield Mall
The property is a shopping centre with associated parking (building classification 6 and 7a). The premises are currently registered on Council’s Annual Fire Safety Statement register (AFS/2542).
The FRNSW report received by Council identified the following fire safety issues:
· A current Annual Fire Safety Statement was not displayed in a prominent location within the building nor provided to FRNSW.
· The path of travel to the exit adjacent to the “Voice Your Choice” tenancy was partially blocked by a scissor lift.
On 24 March 2026, Council’s Senior Fire Safety Officer conducted an inspection and determined that all works required by FRNSW had been satisfactorily completed. Accordingly, the circumstances did not warrant the initiation of enforcement action.
338 Illawarra Road Marrickville
The subject property is owned by Homes NSW (formerly the Land and Housing Corporation), the NSW Government agency responsible for managing public and community housing, including regulatory responsibility for fire safety for their own properties. The premises is a Class 2 residential building. The premises is listed on Council’s Fire Safety register (AFS/1669).
The FRNSW report indicates the follow up actions taken by FRNSW who remain the authorised fire authority because the property is in State Government ownership.
Following receipt of the FRNSW advice, Council officers also contacted Homes NSW to further highlight the fire safety issues identified in the report for their action. The fire safety issues of interest to FRNSW are:
· Fire Resistance
· Egress
· Automatic Smoke Detection and Alarm System (ASDAS)
· Annual Fire Safety Statement not displayed.
Council has provided Homes NSW with a copy of the FRNSW inspection report. FRNSW has been advised to report fire-related issues in buildings owned by Homes NSW directly to Homes NSW, as Council is not the authorised regulatory authority with respect to this property.
LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS
There are no legal and risk implications associated with this report.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
|
1.⇩ |
FRNSW Inspection Report - 35-41 Addison Road Marrickville |
|
2.⇩ |
FRNSW Inspection Report - 328 Liverpool Road Ashfield |
|
3.⇩ |
FRNSW Inspection Report - 481 King Street Newtown |
|
4.⇩ |
FRNSW Inspection Report - 22 Glen Street Marrickville |
|
5.⇩ |
FRNSW Inspection Report - 260a Liverpool Road Ashfield |
|
6.⇩ |
FRNSW Inspection Report - 338 Illawarra Road Marrickville |
|
Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Public Tree Planting Awareness and Engagement Program
Prepared By: Manod Wickramasinghe - Acting Director Engineering
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive the report and note that: a) Council is progressing the development of an integrated tree management system, due for completion in 2026, which will support improved planning, delivery and reporting of Council’s public tree planting program, including Council’s target of planting approximately 1,000 new public trees each year and replacement tree planting where trees are removed; b) The integrated tree management system will provide the foundation for a future public facing tree planting tracker and map, enabling the community to view public tree planting locations and viable vacancies across the LGA, with opportunities to expand information over time as the system matures; c) A communications and engagement package is being finalised to improve community awareness of Council’s tree planting program and the benefits of street trees, using a mix of digital communications and signage near new tree planting locations and in high pedestrian and high visibility locations; d) Residents are able to nominate locations for investigation for potential public tree planting through existing Council programs, including Adopt-A-Spot and Living Streets Verge Gardens, with suitable locations assessed and incorporated into Council’s planting program where appropriate; e) An audit of the existing memorial tree register is in progress, and this information will be included in a mapping layer as part of the integrated tree management system; f) Council has provided training to staff and will undertake future onboarding to new staff on the memorial tree plantings policy and register. g) Council is issuing a letter of apology to the resident and liaising on the planting of a replacement memorial tree.
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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
At its meeting on 17 February 2026, Council resolved that a report be provided outlining progress on initiatives to improve community awareness, engagement, and transparency around Council’s public tree planting program.
This report provides an update on the development of an integrated tree management system, which will support improved planning, reporting, and management of Council’s urban forest, including the future ability to map tree planting locations and vacancies. The system is currently in development and is expected to be completed in 2026.
The report also outlines progress on the development of a communications package to increase public awareness of Council’s tree planting program and the benefits of street trees. This includes digital communications, signage opportunities near new tree planting locations and in high pedestrian areas, and integration with existing Council programs that allow residents to nominate locations for investigation for potential tree planting.
Together, these initiatives will strengthen Council’s ability to engage with the community, improve transparency around tree planting activities, and support the ongoing delivery of Council’s Urban Forest Strategy.
A review of the Memorial Planting and Plaques in Parks and Open Spaces Policy and supporting procedures has been undertaken. As a result, strengthened approval requirements and staff training has been implemented for staff that undertake projects within parks. An audit to update the memorial tree register is also being undertaken in addition to system improvements to allow for memorial trees to be identified in the mapping layers of the integrated tree management system.
BACKGROUND
At the Council Meeting held on 17 February 2026, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council notes the ongoing commitment to expand and protect the Inner West’s urban tree canopy, including Council’s target of planting 1,000 new public trees each year and replacement tree planting policy where a tree is removed.
2. That Council notes that community members care deeply about local trees and the benefits they provide and that Council’s tree planting efforts are of significant community interest.
3. That Council develops an online tree planting tracker and map, allowing community members to stay updated on Council’s public tree planting program across the LGA year to year, including locations, species, and timelines for planting.
4. That Council develops appropriate signage to be installed onsite with each new public tree planting to support community awareness and engagement with Council’s planting program, including information on the Urban Forest Strategy and tree planting targets, the benefits of street trees, and how to contact Council for further information about street trees.
5. That Council as part of the existing Adopt-A-Spot and Living Streets Verge Garden program, allows residents to nominate locations for a public tree planting (e.g. verges, parks, curb extensions, traffic islands etc.) for Council investigation, advice, and support.
6. That Council receives a report back on progress of the above initiatives to the April Council Meeting.
7. That following the disappointing incident where a recently planted memorial tree was removed without informing the family:
a) Acknowledge the distress caused to the family.
b) Request that staff urgently review the Memorial Planting and Plaques in Parks and Open Spaces Policy, identifying the issues that arose in this case
c) In the April report, report findings and recommended improvements.
This report provides an update on the development of the tree management system, communications strategy relating to tree planting, opportunities for resident nomination of tree planting locations and a review of the Memorial Planting and Plaques in Parks and Open Spaces Policy and supporting procedures.
DISCUSSION
Integrated tree management system
Council is currently developing an integrated tree management system. The system will improve asset management maturity of the urban forest and the system will have a number of functions, including:
· identify tree asset inventory
· identify tree planting vacancies
· identify memorial tree planting or heritage significant trees
· record tree inspection reports
· record customer requests related to trees
· record maintenance scheduling and works orders
· capture risk assessment information
· produce reports on tree management
The system is currently in development with the draft solution expected to be completed in mid-2026 and this will be followed by solution testing and deployment by the end of 2026.
Upon completion of the tree management system, it is expected that there would be a range of benefits, including:
· improved reporting accuracy
· improved efficiency in developing an annual tree planting program
· improved ability to identify trees of special significance such as memorial tree planting or heritage significant trees
· improved management of tree assets
· improved ability to manage and deliver proactive tree maintenance works
Once implemented, the system will provide the foundation for a future public facing tree planting tracker and map, enabling the community to view public tree planting locations and viable vacancies across the LGA over time. As the system matures, Council will investigate opportunities to make additional information available to the community, such as tree species and indicative planting timeframes, subject to data quality, system capability, and resourcing considerations.
Investigation is ongoing regarding the opportunity to integrate this system more widely, including the ability to allow residents to be able to select a tree on the map and create a request for inspection against that tree or request a tree to be planted against an existing vacancy.
Council will map viable tree vacancies as part of the project and will be adding new vacancies as part of the routine inspection program or via resident request for review.
Communications Strategy
The Urban Forest Policy Strategic Action plan identified a need for measures to be undertaken to increase public knowledge of the urban forest, Council policy and processes, practical application, and legal requirements of managing trees on private and public land.
As such, a communications plan is currently being developed which includes:
· new webpage
· Council vehicle signage
· electronic message boards
· standard flyers to promote new tree plantings
· on-site promotional signage
· Digital promotion via Council newsletter and social media
· Digital flyers at service centres.
Noting that footpaths in the Inner West are often constrained, with limited usable width, Council is reviewing opportunities to reduce the use of stakes for tree planting as this further restricts pedestrian movement.
This may reduce opportunities for signs to be provided at each new tree planting. However, signage will be erected on existing street infrastructure, where feasible, in the vicinity of tree plantings as well as targeted signage in high-pedestrian and high-visibility locations such as local centres, transport stops, cafés, and areas with public seating. This approach provides a low-impact and cost-effective way to promote the value of trees and Council’s tree planting program while maintaining safe and accessible footpaths.
Review of the Memorial Planting Policy
In response to Council’s Motion at the April 2026 meeting, Council Officers have spoken to the resident concerned and a review of the Memorial Planting and Plaques in Parks and Open Spaces Policy and supporting procedures has been undertaken.
Memorial tree plantings are supported under the Memorial Planting and Plaques in Parks and Open Spaces Policy to support community members who may wish to privately commemorate a person or person/s in the public domain.
Following the review, a series of actions have been put into place to prevent this type of incident occurring in the future, this includes improvements of Council systems and requirements for staff to undertake more rigorous due diligence as part of project planning.
All staff in the Property Capital Projects, Major Projects and Parks Capital Project teams have been advised that written approval from the Public Trees Manager and the Manager Capital Works is required prior to any future tree removals.
An audit of all adopted memorial tree planting locations is being undertaken which will be used to validate and update existing memorial tree registers. This register includes information about the location of memorial trees, date planted and contact details of the applicant.
Staff onboarding will also include training on the following:
· The Memorial Planting and Plaques in Parks and Open Spaces Policy
· Tree removal authorisations, delegations and workflows
· The memorial tree register
Council’s new integrated tree management system will have all memorial and heritage trees registered within the new system which includes mapping layers.
Council is also writing a letter of apology to the resident and is liaising with them to have a replacement tree planted in late April or May this year.
LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS
There are no legal and risk implications associated with this report.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Our Backyard River Campaign
Prepared By: Simone Plummer - Director Planning
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council note the embedding of the Cooks River Alliance Our Backyard River campaign into relevant Council projects, initiatives and communications, and specifically into the following: a) New Bushcare and Citizen Science programs in Tempe focusing on river rehabilitation; b) The Gumbramorra Swamp Re-creation in Mackey Park Marrickville; c) Relevant events – eg the Muddy River Festival; and d) A new Council webpage promoting Our Backyard River.
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
1: An ecologically sustainable Inner West |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report outlines how Inner West Council is integrating the Cooks River Alliance’s Our Backyard River campaign into Council projects, initiatives and communications across the Cooks River catchment, consistent with Council’s October resolution to adopt the campaign objectives and use its branding and messaging.
The campaign is being embedded through on-ground works and community-facing activities including interpretive signage, events and online content to strengthen community connection to the river system, support habitat and vegetation improvement, and promote actions that improve water quality.
Key grant funded projects currently featuring Our Backyard River include the Gumbramorra Swamp Re-Creation at Mackey Park, Marrickville (a $639,000 grant supporting construction of a new wetland and boardwalk celebrating Aboriginal cultural heritage) and Council’s litter prevention and stormwater quality initiatives, including the NSW EPA litter project working with local cafes to reduce single-use coffee cups. Implementation of the actions described in this report is within existing budgets, including the grant funded works.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 28 October 2025, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council note the Cooks River Alliance was recently awarded highly commended for its Our Backyard River campaign in the 2025 Sydney Awards.
2. That Council formally adopt the objectives of the Our Backyard River campaign, which seeks to reconnect local communities with the Cooks River Catchment — including its tributaries such as Wolli Creek, Cup and Saucer Creek, and the Alexandra Canal — by celebrating the river system as a shared natural and cultural asset.
3. That Council actively utilise the campaign’s branding, messaging and communications materials in Council’s environmental education, community engagement, and communications programs when referring to the Cooks River Catchment and its tributaries, to ensure consistent messaging and alignment with partner councils, the Cooks River Alliance, and community organisations.
4. That Council reaffirm Inner West Council’s ongoing commitment to active participation in and contribution to the Cooks River Alliance and the Cooks River Masterplan, of which the Our Backyard River campaign is a core component, to support coordinated planning, restoration and stewardship across the catchment.
5. That Council request the General Manager write to the CEO of Sydney Airport Corporation seeking stronger engagement with the Cooks River Alliance, including potential funding for projects impacting the Cooks River.
6. That Council ask that a report be brought to Council within six months outlining opportunities to integrate the Our Backyard River campaign objectives into current and upcoming projects, including:
a) Waterway rehabilitation and naturalisation works;
b) Interpretive and educational signage;
c) Litter prevention and stormwater quality improvement programs;
d) Citizen science and community stewardship initiatives;
e) Public art, storytelling, and cultural interpretation projects celebrating the Cooks River; and
f) Council communications.
This report is in response to point 6 of the above resolution.
DISCUSSION
The Cooks River is highly urbanised and one of the most contaminated waterways in NSW. Water quality and ecosystem health are impacted by a range of catchment pressures typical of dense urban areas, including stormwater runoff, litter and sediment, loss of riparian vegetation and habitat, and the legacy of historical industrial uses along parts of the river.
The intent of the Our Backyard River campaign is to build a stronger sense of shared responsibility for the river by reinforcing that everyday actions across the catchment—at home, in streets, parks and local businesses—directly influence what enters the stormwater network and ultimately the Cooks River.
The Inner West community is actively involved in stewardship along the river, with residents regularly participating in Bushcare and Citizen Science activities that help protect and restore riparian vegetation and improve essential habitat. These programs support practical on-ground outcomes such as weed removal, regeneration planting, monitoring of local biodiversity, and community education about threats to waterways (including litter and poor stormwater quality).
Our Backyard River will be promoted through these existing networks and incorporated into Council projects around the Cooks River to strengthen community connection, encourage ongoing participation in stewardship, and support measurable improvements in vegetation and habitat condition over time, alongside broader actions that contribute to improved water quality.
Working with the Cooks River Alliance
Our Backyard River is aligned with Council’s projects and initiatives through three priorities;
1. healthy waterways
2. the river as a recreation destination
3. country and culture
As members, Inner West supports the Cooks River Alliance:
· to develop a Coastal Management Plan (CMP) for the Cooks River
· by participating in executive and strategic monthly meetings
· by contributing to the Cooks River Masterplan scheduled for completion in 2028
Councils’ Urban Ecology Team manages significant naturals areas and wetlands along the Cooks River which promote the Our Backyard River campaign with signage and information including:
· New Bushcare and Citizen Science programs in Tempe focusing on river rehabilitation
· The Gumbramorra Swamp Re-Creation in Mackey Park, Marrickville. Through a $639,000 grant Council is constructing a new wetland and boardwalk celebrating Aboriginal cultural heritage. This project promotes Our Backyard River campaign with signage and interpretive information around the park and along the Cooks River natural restoration area sites.
· Our Backyard River is featured on a new Council webpage which will go live with the new website
· Events such as the Muddy River Festival on 28th March 2026 at the Marrickville Golf Club promote Our Backyard River. Urban Ecology staff attended to engage with community around the campaign, answer community questions, discuss habitat and celebrate the river.
Litter in the Catchment
Council’s litter projects within the Cooks River catchment will also promote Our Backyard River as part of project promotion and communications. The Inner West NSW EPA litter project will work with local cafes to reduce single use coffee cups, which are a notable component of litter in local waterways.
The Cooks River catchment includes St Peters, Tempe, Marrickville, Enmore, Petersham, Dulwich Hill, Ashbury, Croydon Park and Hurlstone Park, therefore promotion will be focused on projects in this area. The Cooks River Alliance provides an interactive mapping tool, that can be found at https://ourbackyardriver.com.au.
LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS
There are no legal and risk implications associated with this report.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report, as all actions are within budget, including the grant funded works in Gumbramorra Swamp.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Street Cleansing Service Update
Prepared By: Manod Wickramasinghe - Acting Director Engineering
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive the report and note: a) The new cleansing standard for special entertainment precincts and premium laneways has been operating successfully for 3 months b) That further to this a new education initiative, "Love your Lanes", to bring bins in off lanes is to be implemented in laneways in Enmore, Stanmore and Newtown in April/May 2026 with a view to extend the program to lanes with similar issues c) That further updates will be provided to Councillors via briefing note in 6 months.
|
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
Council’s revised laneway cleansing program commenced in January 2026 across laneways within Special Entertainment Precincts and surrounding areas. Monitoring over the first three months indicates the new cleansing standards are improving overall laneway cleanliness; however, illegal dumping occurrences remain broadly consistent. Feedback from inspections and community engagement indicates the primary amenity concern is the ongoing use of laneways for storing bins and bulky commercial items (e.g., cooking oil containers, kegs and milk crates), which also obstructs cleaning activities.
In response, Council is implementing a targeted education and compliance initiative, Love Your Laneways, focused on bringing bins in off laneways and reducing long-term storage of items in lanes. The initiative is scheduled to commence in late April to early May 2026, with an initial focus on priority laneways in Enmore, Stanmore and Newtown and potential expansion to other affected locations.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 9 December 2025, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council adopt the reviewed public domain cleansing service levels, being Premium, Very High, Enhanced and Standard, to meet current and evolving needs of the community.
2. That the adopted cleansing service levels are implemented within 4 weeks, including the ongoing publication of a map on Council’s website identifying the service level set for all public domain locations.
3. That Council monitor and review the new cleansing arrangements over the next three months, and report to Council on the status of the new cleaning service levels including work undertaken; reports of maintenance, weeds and waste management; complaints and response times; and other relevant data.
4. That in the same report, Council report on the same measures for the enhanced cleansing for laneways around Special Entertainment Precincts.
5. That pending the data and findings in the report, consideration be given to increasing the budget and resourcing for laneway cleansing in the 2026/2027 budget.
The purpose of this report is to provide the results of the first three months of the implementation and detail the changes that have been made, including in the Special Entertainment Precincts.
DISCUSSION
The enhanced laneway cleansing program for 255 laneways within Special Entertainment Precincts and surrounding areas of the LGA commenced in January 2026 following Council’s endorsement.
The levels of service are defined in keeping with the table below.
|
Cleansing Service Level |
Typical Locations provided |
Minimum Service Frequency |
|||
|
Dumps, litter |
Footway Pressure Cln |
Sweeping |
Weeds |
||
|
Premium |
Main Streets |
Daily |
Weekly |
Daily |
Weekly |
|
Very High |
Roads near main streets |
3 days/ week |
Upon Report |
Fortnightly |
Fortnightly |
|
Enhanced |
Inner urban lanes, hotspots |
Fortnightly |
Upon Report |
Fortnightly |
Fortnightly |
|
Standard |
All other roads |
Upon Report |
Upon Report |
Bi-Monthly (Monthly in daylight savings) |
Quarterly |
The level of cleansing service is subject to ongoing adjustment to respond to seasonal change, local events, bin presentation changes, waste education initiatives and changes to the public domain.
Maps identifying laneway locations and assigned service levels (Premium, Very High and Enhanced) are available on Council’s website. Work is ongoing to develop a dynamic map that can be updated as service levels change.
The Very High service level has been implemented across the Enmore, Marrickville, Dulwich Hill, Rozelle, Balmain and Leichhardt Special Entertainment precincts. These areas now receive increased inspections and servicing, with crews attending laneways three times per week to address dumped rubbish, weeds, and the sweeping of litter and lead debris.
Before and after images of some example laneways are shown in Attachment 1.
To date, monitoring has noted that the new cleansing service levels have been successful. It has, however, identified the following concerns:
· Illegal dumping remains an issue with illegal dumping occurrences remaining consistent
· The prolonged placement of bins and bulky commercial items within laneways remains a key issue. Items commonly observed include bulk cooking oil containers, kegs and milk crates.
Waste Inspectors and Council’s Commercial Waste Officer are actively engaging with businesses in these areas to ensure laneways are kept clear and that such items are removed promptly.
Love Your Laneways Initiative
To address the ongoing issue of bins being left in laneways, Council is developing a targeted education campaign titled Love Your Laneways. The campaign aims to address both residential and commercial bin storage practices that affect laneway cleanliness and amenity.
The campaign will:
· Target residential and commercial bins left in laneways
· Reduce obstructions to cleaning activities
· Improve laneway amenity
· Minimise illegal dumping and contamination of waste streams
· Be delivered progressively, with an initial focus on priority laneways in Enmore, Stanmore and Newtown
As part of the campaign, residents and businesses will receive an information pack that outlines the purpose of the initiative, implementation timeframes and a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) sheet to address common concerns including storage constraints and alternative collection arrangements.
Council will also be undertaking the following action to achieve compliance:
· Labelling all bins with property address details
· Identifying approved bin presentation locations
· Removing surplus or unclaimed bins
Where bins are left in laneways without authorisation, Compliance and Enforcement may be undertaken. This will comprise of the following actions:
· Bins will be tagged with a warning notice
· Repeated non-compliance may result in bin removal
· For commercial properties, enforcement action including fines will apply where required
The Love Your Laneways initiative is scheduled to commence in late April to early May 2026, subject to finalisation of communications and messaging.
LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS
There are no legal and risk implications associated with this report.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report. The revised laneway servicing is undertaken within the current Lane Cleansing budget with adjustments to the use of fleet and staff to achieve the new service levels.
|
1.⇩ |
Street Cleansing Service Images |
|
|
Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Junior Parkrun in the Inner West
Prepared By: Manod Wickramasinghe - Acting Director Engineering
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive the report and note that: a) Parkrun Australia is currently undertaking a review of Junior Parkrun events in Australia; and b) Council officers are continuing to work with Parkrun Australia to establish a Junior Parkrun within the Inner West including assistance with appropriate grant funding applications.
|
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
Council has been investigating the establishment of a Junior Parkrun in the Inner West. Discussions with Parkrun Australia has indicated that they are currently reviewing Junior Parkrun events already operating in Australia with particular regard to the strict safety, administrative, and volunteer requirements of running an event for children. Parkrun will be considering opportunities for expansion following the review in 6-12 months.
Noting this, Council staff will continue to work with Parkrun Australia to identify and establish an appropriate venue and course for a Junior Parkrun in the Inner West which best caters for the requirements of Junior Parkrun.
Council will also assist Parkrun Australia with identifying and applying for grant funding opportunities to assist with the initial establishment of Junior Parkrun, such as the Active Inner West Grants.
BACKGROUND
Parkrun was established in 2004 in the United Kingdom and has expanded internationally with Parkrun Australia being established in 2011. Australia held its first event in the Gold Coast in Queensland with other states following launching shortly afterwards. The free, weekly 5km timed event that has since grown with over 540 locations across Australia in 2026. A quarter of those locations are in NSW with 30 being held weekly in the metropolitan Sydney area. Parkrun accommodates participants of all ages from age 4 years though to adults.
Following the success of Parkrun, Junior Parkrun was launched in the United Kingdom in 2010 aimed at those aged 4 to 14. In 2018 Junior Parkrun was piloted in Australia, where three events in Queensland and Victoria were launched. The pilot was a 12-month project aimed at evaluating the feasibility of a 2-km, weekly, non-competitive, and free event for children aged 4to 14 years, following the success of the model in the United Kingdom.
At the Council meeting held on 17 February 2026, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council notes the success of Parkrun as a free, volunteer-led initiative that promotes physical activity, social connection and inclusive use of public open space, including the ongoing success of the Bay Run Parkrun in Haberfield and other nearby Parkrun events.
2. That Council notes the establishment and growth of Junior Parkrun events in Australia and overseas, which provide free, weekly 2 kilometre events for children aged 4 to 14 years and their families, and the demonstrated physical, mental health and community benefits of these programs.
3. That Council requests staff to investigate the establishment of a Junior Parkrun in the Inner West, including consideration of locations such as Marrickville Oval, the GreenWay corridor, Pratten Park or another suitable site, and consultation with Parkrun Australia and relevant community stakeholders.
4. That Council requests that staff meet with Parkrun representatives and report back to Council within two months on the outcomes of this investigation, including feasibility, recommended locations, resourcing and cost implications, and alignment with Council strategies and priorities.
DISCUSSION
Subsequently, Council staff have met with the Regional Manager for Parkrun Australia to discuss Junior Parkrun and potential courses in the Inner West in further detail.
Feedback from the meeting has indicated that Junior Parkrun Australia has faced challenges in establishing a consistent, nationwide rollout, primarily due to strict safety, administrative, and volunteer requirements of running an event for children.
As such, Parkrun is currently undertaking a review of Junior Parkrun events currently operating in Australia. As part of this, a Junior Parkrun manager is being recruited to assist with the review and consideration of expansion in 6 to 12 months.
Key challenges to be considered in the review:
• Volunteer Requirements: Ensuring a safe environment for children requires dedicated volunteers and finding enough people with the necessary background checks (i.e. Working with Children checks).
• Safety: Junior events are subject to specific safety protocols, such as line-of-sight requirements. Managing the administrative load for these, along with potential course issues, can cause delays or cancellations to events.
• Growth: While there have been efforts to expand, establishing the infrastructure and volunteer base for junior-specific, 2km weekend events is more complex than the established 5k (all ages) Parkrun.
Noting the above matters, Parkrun has indicated that not all public parks and sporting grounds can be easily adapted for Junior Parkrun. Alternatively, more secure open space in the Inner West may be available through the NSW Government ‘Share Our Space’ program where participating schools allows community access to school playgrounds, multipurpose courts and ovals.
These facilities are more secure and would reduce conflict with other pedestrians, bikes, E-bikes, scooters and pets or animals being walked.
Noting this, Council staff will continue to work with Parkrun Australia to identify and establish an appropriate venue and course for a Junior Parkrun in the Inner West which best caters for the safety, administrative, and volunteer requirements of Junior Parkrun.
Council will also assist Parkrun Australia with identifying and applying for grant funding opportunities to assist with the initial establishment of Junior Parkrun, such as the Active Inner West Grants.
LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS
There are no legal and risk implications associated with this report.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Expansion of Senior's Morning Teas
Prepared By: Adele Pittaway - Community Wellbeing Manager
Authorised By: Ruth Callaghan - Director Community
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive the report and note that: a) A Christmas Seniors Morning Tea will be hosted in December 2026 at Annandale Community Centre; b) A Seniors Morning Tea will be hosted in partnership with House of Creativity at a location in the Midjuburi/Marrickville Ward; c) A Seniors Morning Tea for LGBTQ+ community will be hosted in partnership with ACON; and d) Future updates to the Seniors Morning Tea 2026 program will be provided in a briefing note to Council.
|
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
4: Healthy, resilient and caring communities |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
At its meeting on 17 March 2026, Council endorsed the additional senior’s morning teas on the Greenway.
Further to that discussion Council requested further expansion of the program.
The expanded 2026 program will now include:
· A morning tea delivered in partnership with House of Creativity in the Midjuburi/Marrickville ward with timing to be confirmed subject to venue and partner availability.
· A Christmas‑themed morning tea at Annandale Community Centre in December 2026.
· A dedicated morning tea for LGBTQ+ seniors, to be delivered in partnership with ACON’s Living Older Visibly and Engaged (LOVE) club.
Officers are finalising arrangements with relevant stakeholders, and a further update will be provided by Briefing Note.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 17 February 2026 Council resolved the following in part:
1. That Council as an introduction to, and a celebration of the Greenway, expand the Seniors Morning Tea program, with ‘Morning Teas for Seniors’ events to take place at Johnson Park and Richard Murden Reserve to include guided tours of the Greenway, paced to suit all levels of mobility.
6. That Council prepare a report for the March 2026 Council meeting outlining the Seniors Morning Tea Program across the Inner West Council’s community centres, detailing the locations and dates schedule for 2026.
At the Council meeting held on 17 March 2026, Council resolved the following:
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
DISCUSSION
As part of the approved expansion of the Seniors Morning Tea program, Council officers are progressing the planning and delivery of additional events across 2026.
A Christmas themed Seniors Morning Tea is planned for early December 2026 at Annandale Community Centre, with the specific date to be confirmed following stakeholder consultation.
Council officers are working in partnership with ACON’s Living Older Visibly and Engaged (LOVE) Club to develop a dedicated Seniors Morning Tea for LGBTQ+ seniors. A suitable venue is currently being scoped and once confirmed, the event details will be incorporated into the 2026 Seniors Morning Tea program.
Planning has also commenced for a Seniors Morning Tea in the Midjuburi (Marrickville) ward, to be delivered in partnership with House of Creativity. House of Creativity delivers senior‑focused arts programs that promote social connection, wellbeing and creative engagement, aligning with the objectives of the Seniors Morning Tea program.
Transport requirements will be identified through the registration process, with Council’s community bus transport arranged where required. All events will be promoted through Council communication channels, including libraries, community centres, multilingual materials and established seniors’ networks. Participant feedback will be collected following each event to inform evaluation and ongoing refinement of the program.
Future updates to the Seniors Morning Tea 2026 program will be provided to Councillors through a briefing note.
LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS
There are no legal and risk implications associated with this report.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Investment Report at 28 February 2026
Prepared By: Sharon Bowman - Director Corporate
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RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive the investment report for February 2026, noting an annualised return for the month of 4.52% p.a on a marked to market basis compared with the AusBond Bank Bill Index benchmark of 3.76% p.a. |
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
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5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
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 February 2026:
· Council made $2.0m of new investments
· Council’s market value investment portfolio size is $187.6m ($2.0m higher than last month)
· Council’s portfolio had an annualised return of 4.52% pa on a marked-to-market basis, performing well against the ‘AusBond Bank Bill Index’ Benchmark of 3.76% pa.
· For the past 12 months, the portfolio has returned 4.52% pa on a marked-to-market basis (outperforming the benchmark by 0.69%)
· Council’s entire investment portfolio remains invested in a non-fossil fuel portfolio, with 54% of the portfolio in Non-Fossil Fuel Lending authorised deposit-taking institutions (ADIs), 12% in Socially Responsible Investments, and 34% in Green investments
· Council is preparing for the maturity of further investments in March 2026
· The RBA increased the cash rate by 0.25% on 3 February, and the market is now factoring up to two additional rate increases in 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 $2.0m comprising:
· $2.0m 10-year Fixed Rate Bond with South Australian Government at a fixed rate of 4.75%pa
There were no investments sold or matured during the month.
Investment advice provided to Council suggested that staggering a mix of fixed deposits between 12 months to 3 years remains an optimal strategy for the ‘core’ assets to maximise returns over a longer-term cycle, which can be supplemented by investing a smaller proportion in newly issued FRNs.
Despite the possibility of a few rate increases in 2026, locking in rates above 4.75% p.a. across 1-3 year tenors should still outperform benchmark in the long run, on the assumption that the RBA can contain inflation within their 2-3% target band.
The value of our Portfolio
The attachments to this report detail all investments held by Council and interest returns for the period ending 28 February 2026.
Council’s market value investment portfolio size is $187.6m (as set out in the table below), $2.0m higher compared with the prior month market value of $185.6m.
Council has two non-compliant (unrated) investments that were purchased in July 2006 with maturity dates of August 2051 and August 2056, representing a market value $1.1m, less than 1% of Council’s invested funds.
Council’s entire investment portfolio remains invested in Green, Socially Responsible or Non-Fossil Fuel lending, as set out in the table below. All Socially Responsible Investments (SRI’s) comply with the Non-Fossil Fuel standards.
Investment Returns
Council’s portfolio during the month had an annualised return of 4.52% pa on a marked-to-market basis, performing well against the ‘AusBond Bank Bill Index’ Benchmark of 3.76% pa. For the past 12 months, the portfolio has returned 4.52% 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 fall and rise 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 return to its face value at maturity.
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
Financial markets remained resilient in February on expectations of further rate cuts in the US, corporate earnings holding up, and a ‘soft landing’ with regards to the outlook for global growth.
In the deposit market, over February, at the short-end of the curve (12 months and less), the average deposit rates offered by the domestic major banks was up to 20bp higher compared to where they were the previous month (January) after the RBA lifted official rates by 25bp. At the longer-end of the curve (1-5 years), the average rates were 5~15bp compared to where they were the previous month. The market is now factoring up to two additional hikes in 2026.
Domestic issues
The following issues are being considered in Council’s investment strategy:
· In a unanimous decision, the RBA Monetary Policy Board increased the cash rate by 25bp to 3.85%. The RBA sees the labour market as “a little tight” and that capacity constraints are binding more than previously expected.
· The RBA’s February minutes indicate this month’s cash rate hike was driven by stronger-than-anticipated economic data, ongoing broad-based inflation, and easing financial conditions. Policymakers continue to stress no fixed path for future rates as their decisions will remain data dependent
· Headline January CPI was +3.8% y/y in January, whilst the monthly trimmed mean was +0.3% m/m to be +3.4% y/y. The data confirms price pressures continue to run above the RBA’s target band, leaving them on track for additional tightening.
· Australia’s Wage Price Index rose +3.4% y/y in Q4 2025 (from +3.3%). Quarterly growth was steady at +0.8%, in line with consensus and RBA forecast.
· The market is factoring two further increases in 2026.
LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS
There are no legal or risk implications associated with this report.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
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1.⇩ |
Inner West Council Economic and Investment Portfolio Commentary - February 2026 |
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2.⇩ |
Inner West Council Investment Report - February 2026 |
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Partnership to Deliver King Street Crawl and Summer
From: Deputy Mayor, Councillor Chloe Smith
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MOTION
1. That Council acknowledges the success of the Summer Crawl free music festival held in January 2026, including: a) Over 250 artists performing across more than 40 venues in Newtown, Enmore, Marrickville, and Erskineville, b) An estimated 12,000 total visitors across the 12 hours of the event, and c) A projected $1.5 million return to the local economy.
2. That Council notes the financial and in-kind support provided by Inner West Council for this event, including the closure of Eliza St for a live music activation.
3. That Council further notes Council’s resolution of October 2025 to work with festival organisers, the Music and Booze Co, on an ongoing partnership to deliver Summer Crawl and King Street Crawl as annual events (in January and July respectively).
4. That Council notes that festival organisers have sought Council funding for King Street Crawl in July 2026 to support expansion to the Enmore Theatre, fund additional artist line ups, and facilitate the closure of Eliza St for live music activation.
5. That Council resolves to provide one-time financial support of $75,000 for the King Street Crawl event in July 2026, with funding to be identified through the next quarterly budget review, discretionary funding in the events budget, and other sources as identified.
6. That Council resolves to continue discussions with the Music and Booze Co with the intent to develop a multi-year partnership and funding agreement to support sustainable delivery of Summer Crawl and King Street Crawl as annual events. Discussions should consider: a) Recognition of the Inner West Council as a leading sponsor of both events, b) Future expansion of both events, including into Marrickville and parts of Camperdown Memorial Rest Park.
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Background
Summer Crawl and King Street Crawl are free live music events that take place across multiple live music venues in Newtown, Enmore, and Erskineville, primarily centred around Enmore Road and King Street. Both events are run by The Music and Booze Co, a local business which has delivered the much-loved Beer, Footy and Food Fest in partnership with the Newtown Jets at Henson Park for over a decade.
The King Street Crawl ran for five years prior to Covid and returned to the Inner West in 2025 after a hiatus. The event featured over 200 acts of which 80% were local to the Inner West, and participating venues reported a significant increase in revenue and foot traffic.
Summer Crawl is the summer version of King Street Crawl and was held in January 2026 with Inner West Council support, featuring over 250 artists performing across more than 40 venues. An estimated 12,000 people attended the event over its span with a projected $1.5 million injected into the local economy.
With King Street Crawl scheduled to return on 12 July 2026, festival organisers have commenced discussions with Council about support for the event. This includes expansion to the iconic Enmore Theatre as one of the primary festival venues, along with support for an expanded artist line up and once again closing Eliza Street for a live music street party. The amount identified for Council funding is commensurate with Council’s investments in similar events, including Dulwich Hill Festival and Summer Hill Social.
Organisers have also expressed interest in expanding both annual festivals further into the Inner West, primarily Marrickville, while also potentially utilising parts of Camperdown Memorial Rest Park in a similar model to the former Newtown Festival.
With Council’s support, both King Street Crawl and Summer Crawl can become the foremost annual live music events in Newtown and Enmore, centred around the existing Enmore Road SEP and in-progress King Street SEP. These events will further cement the Inner West’s status as the premier live music and entertainment destination in NSW. Both events generate significant support for local businesses and artists and align with Council priorities to create vibrant main streets, support live music, and drive visitation to the Inner West.
Director Lead:
Ruth Callaghan, Director Community
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Parramatta Road Corridor – State led rezoning
From: Councillor Liz Atkins
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MOTION
1. That Council note the Parramatta Road Corridor State-led rezoning investigation and Council’s resolution C0925(1) Item 37 of 23 September 2025 which included the undertaking of early comprehensive community consultation including with landowners;
2. That Council note that consultation via Council’s Your Say website commenced on 25 February 2026 and was twice extended to 6 April 2026;
3. That Council acknowledge that the current investigation area includes a number of residential streets not previously included in the PRCUTS boundaries and whose residents have not therefore been part of earlier consultation processes;
4. That Council recognize that residents of streets not previously included within the investigation area may appreciate additional, localised information and discussion beyond what the online survey provides, supporting Council’s commitment to deliver comprehensive community engagement;
5. That Council arrange targeted local meetings for residents within the investigation area, with a focus on those streets newly included and not previously within the PRCUTS boundaries, including Cardigan Street and Corunna Road in Stanmore, to a) Provide clear information on the planning process; b) Explain the change in boundaries; c) Outline what inclusion in the corridor may mean for particular streets and properties; d) Provide residents the opportunity to submit questions in advance to be addressed during the meetings;
6. That Council invite representatives from the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure to attend and participate in the meetings;
7. Council ensure all households not previously included within the PRCUTS boundaries are invited to the nearest meeting no less than two weeks prior to the meeting via written correspondence to ratepayers and occupiers;
8. That Council provide clear, accessible and plain-English information to attendees of the meetings about the planning process, including: a) The purpose of the investigation area; b) What both the Department and the Council will be identifying as part of the process and how assessments will be undertaken; and c) How residents and property owners can participate in upcoming consultation phases.
9. That a report be provided to Council on the outcomes of these meetings, including key themes raised by residents and any further steps needed or information required to support meaningful engagement. |
Background
On 14 September 2025 the State-led rezoning of Parramatta Road was announced. On 23 September 2025 Council resolved to undertake early community consultation. On 25 February 2026 that consultation commenced. The State Government is due to exhibit draft plans late this year.
Residents of Cardigan Street and Corunna Road Stanmore, which were not previously included in PRCUTS boundaries, are seeking more information. Small meetings via invitation to local residents will serve to inform them of what the potential impacts are and permit them to ask questions. Similar meetings were held in the Leichhardt, Taverners Hill and Kings Bay/Croydon precincts in 2023 as part of community engagement on the PRCUTS Stage 1 proposal.
While there has been a Local Matters Forum in Damun Ward during the consultation period, many people in affected streets may not have been aware of the Forum until ward councillors posted about it in social media groups.
Residents are looking to be informed and understand the purpose of the investigation, why particular streets are included, how Council’s policies and strategies, such as the Employment and Retail Lands Strategy, are taken into account and what the further steps are in the process.
Director Lead:
Simone Plummer, Director Planning
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Greening Jesmond Avenue
From: Councillor Izabella Antoniou
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MOTION
1. That Council undertake consultation with residents on increased in-road tree planting at Jesmond Avenue, Dulwich Hill between Union Street and Cobar Street.
2. That Council prepare a report back on consultation outcomes as well as feasibility, cost and road usage of increased in-road tree planting at this location.
3. That Council investigate for potential consideration in the 27/28 budget processes
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Background
Jesmond Avenue has been
identified as hosting a series of safety and heat island concerns that have
been flagged by residents, and supported in previous Council reports.
Jesmond Avenue is a wide residential street, with limited visibility at the
intersection with Union Street, and a dog-leg turn at Cobar Street. These
characteristics impact visibility and safety which is further compounded by the
increased speeds and heavy vehicle use of the street as identified in
council’s own local area traffic management plan.
Residents have organised a petition asking Council to consider potential greening and traffic calming measures on the street.
Council resolved in September 2025 to complete a traffic management study for Dulwich Hill which is currently due to be finalised in May 2026. As part of that report, a Council staff should investigate the feasibility and associated costs of a green kerb extension at the corner of Jesmond Avenue and Union Street.
Jesmond Avenue hosts short to
medium size trees on the verges - however, the wideness of the street and
inadequate size of the plantings have resulted in high levels of sun exposure,
creating a heat island effect. Residents have reached - out as part of the
petition - requesting in-road tree planting be explored as part of a traffic
calming, and urban heat solution.
In April 2025, Council resolved to consult and report back on in-road planting
at St Marys Street Camperdown in response to a community petition. It is
suggested that a similar process take place for Jesmond Avenue with the
characteristics of the wide street also allowing for potential to explore a
green medium strip, similar to Weston Street.
Director Lead:
Manod Wickramasinghe, Acting Director Engineering
Officer’s Comments:
Comment from Acting Director Engineering:
Jesmond Avenue, Dulwich Hill is a local street with existing grass verge with tree plantings on both sides of the street. In road tree planting can be investigated but planting opportunities will need to consider proximity to existing street trees noting that sufficient offset will be required to allow for tree canopy and root system establishment. A review of underground services will also be required to determine the feasibility of in-road trees.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: New Inner West Council Limited Time Parking Schemes
From: Councillor Victor Macri
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MOTION
That Council supports an overall recommendation that new limited time parking schemes to be introduced as a result of Metro Rail Development and the implementation of the TOD and Town Centre State Environment Planning Provisions, should contain many of the existing parking regulations already implemented in areas of the Inner West Council, particularly; a) That single residences be entitled to at least 1 parking permit for the relevant street or scheme. b) That new schemes be restricted to one side of the street only.
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Background
Such regulations would acknowledge the difference between older residential development, built before modern parking needs with unusable parking spots and most newer existing multiple residency developments which were built with on-site parking provisions.
The regulations would;
1. Promote consistency across the whole IWC.
2. Reduce the disadvantage experienced by the older heritage style housing which was built before modern parking requirements and the new active transportation regulations and schemes.
Director Lead:
Manod Wickramasinghe, Acting Director Engineering
Officer’s Comments:
Comment from Acting Director Engineering:
Council’s draft Public Domain Parking Policy is currently on public exhibition. As per the draft Policy and current Policies, resident parking permit eligibility allows for a maximum of 2 parking permits for eligible properties with the number of permits reducing depending on available off street parking spaces. In some high-density locations, the maximum is 1 parking permit for eligible properties, reducing to zero if off street parking is available.
The draft Public Domain Parking Policy acknowledges that when developing permit parking schemes, initial implementation will generally be considered for one side of the street only, giving a level of parking security to residents, while retaining unrestricted parking on the other side of the street to provide parking opportunities for non-permit holders. Exceptions may apply to locations of very high parking demand, , where a permit parking scheme would be applied to both sides of the street. For example, locations within close proximity to commercial centres.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Local Tradies Live & Work Parking Permits
From: Councillor Victor Macri
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MOTION
That Council investigate the introduction of Local Tradies Live and Work Parking Permit for tradesmen who live and work in the Inner West Council community in all new limited time parking schemes.
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Background
The new Tradies Live & Work Parking Permits would be in addition to existing Trades Parking Permits and Work Zone Permits which are controlled and applied for by the local resident or property owner who is getting the work done.
The need for the Tradies based permits rather than property owner based trade permits, is becoming more important as parking restrictions are tightened in Inner City areas, effectively forcing tradespersons out of the IWC area because they can’t park their vehicle on the street.
The Tradies Live and Work Parking Permits would encourage our local tradespersons to live and work in the IWC and deliver essential services more efficiently by allowing them to park their registered trades vehicle in all new limited time parking schemes.
These changes would also enable local tradespersons to respond more effectively to “call out” emergency work. Because the new permit would allow a local tradies service vehicle to be exempt from limited time fines when they are working in the local community.
Director Lead:
Manod Wickramasinghe, Acting Director Engineering
Officer’s Comments:
Comment from Acting Director Engineering:
Tradespersons that live within the Inner West Council area may be eligible for resident parking permits should they live in a Resident Parking Scheme area and are located within an eligible property with limited access to off-street parking. A permit issued in this manner would allow for a tradesperson to park in a Resident Parking Scheme near their home but not in other Resident Parking Scheme areas.
Should parking be required elsewhere in the LGA or required by non-resident tradespersons, Temporary Trades Parking Permits are also available for all tradespeople undertaken works in the LGA, subject to confirmation that works are being undertaken. The requirement to apply for permits ensures that permits are issued only when there are genuine works in progress and eliminates the inappropriate use of trades permits for other purposes such as use as an additional resident parking permit, beyond established limits.
For longer term works, Works Zones are also available to help secure parking adjacent to building construction works.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Supporting Inner West Residents in the Global Sumud Flotilla
From: Councillor Izabella Antoniou
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MOTION
1. That Council acknowledges the effort of Australians, including two Inner West residents, seeking to deliver much needed aid to Gaza as part of the Global Sumud Flotilla mission.
2. That Council notes that more than three quarters of Gaza’s population are experiencing acute hunger and malnutrition, and yet the Israeli Government has banned Doctors Without Borders, Save the Children, Oxfam and up to 30 other international aid organisations from operating within Gaza.
3. That Council acknowledges the dedication of Sumud Flotilla Participants to Australian values of democracy, equality, freedom and a fair go - and the alignment to Inner West Council’s own values of integrity, respect, compassion and collaboration.
4. That Council writes to the local member and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and Minister for Foreign Affairs Senator Penny Wong, calling on the Australian Government to: a) Advocate for the safe passage of Australians and others on board the Global Sumud Flotilla to deliver humanitarian aid in Gaza; b) Provide consular support for Sumud Flotilla Participants in the Middle East, including clear lines of communication between participants, their families, and members of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade; and c) Investigate any allegations of unlawful treatment, torture and brutality perpetuated against Australians in the event of detention by the State of Israel.
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Background
In September 2025, 42 boats and 462 people sailed across the Mediterranean in a civilian, nonviolent mission to break Israel's illegal siege on Gaza and stand with the Palestinian people. In April 2026 two Inner West residents, Ethan Floyd and Zack Schofield - will join other brave Australians Juliet Lamont, Luca Lamont, Anny Mokotow, Sam Woripa Watson, Clementine Ford, Jayden Kitchener-Waters, Surya McEwen and Madeleine Habib in another attempt to deliver much needed humanitarian aid to the Gaza strip.
As reported by the UN “In the Gaza Strip, at least 21,289 children have been reported killed as of 3 February 2026; 44,500 children have been injured, including more than 11,000 children with life-changing injuries. Protection risks, grave violations and mental health and psychosocial needs of children are at extreme levels and ever-increasing. At least 1.3 million people – most of the Gaza Strip’s population – are displaced; many of whom have been displaced multiple times.”
Despite installations of a so-called ceasefire, the people of Gaza continue to
face malnutrition and severe hunger, damage to sanitation and water facilities
and compounding risks of disease. Notwithstanding this, the Israeli government
has banned 37 humanitarian aid organisations from operating inside Palestine
including Oxfam, Save the Children and Médecins Sans Frontières
who along with 18 other organisations filed against this ban in February 2026
before Israel’s High Court.
The 2025 flotilla mission saw Australians return with harrowing stories regarding their treatment and brutalisation at the hands of the IDF. Therefore, it is paramount that we seek to protect our residents and other Australians as they carry out their humanitarian duty by asking the Prime Minister - their local member, and the Minister for Foreign Affairs to support their safe passage, provide consular support and investigate any mistreatment of Australian citizens with the utmost transparency.
Director Lead:
Sharon Bowman, Director Corporate
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Victoria Road Underbridge Safety
From: Councillor Olivia Barlow
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MOTION
1. That Council notes the current condition of Victoria Rd, in particular the stretch between Charlotte Ave and Meeks Rd, is unmaintained, with missing road markings, and cracks in the road and footpath contributing to dangerous conditions on the road and for pedestrians.
2. That Council as soon as is practicable, repaint the road markings and repair the road surface, with works to be undertaken within the scope of the existing roads or parks maintenance budget.
3. That Council officers attend the site to determine any additional safety measures that may be required at this location, including but not limited to accessibility and lighting.
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Background
Local residents have raised concerns about how poor the visibility is on this stretch of road, particularly during peak hours of sun in the afternoon. The road markings on this stretch have been missing for some time and the current state of the road is increasing the danger going around the bend for all road users.
Residents have requested that the road be made safer, including by repainting road markings, and road and footpath repair.
Director Lead:
Manod Wickramasinghe, Acting Director Engineering
Officer’s Comments:
Council has received funding under the Australian Government Black Spot program to undertake road surface improvements by diamond grinding the concrete pavement along Victoria Road, north of the rail bridge. This work will improve motorist safety and extend pavement life. Works are expected to be completed mid-2026. Line marking will be incorporated as part of this project.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Charlotte Street Pedestrian Safety
From: Councillor Olivia Barlow
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MOTION
1. That Council notes the current condition of the pedestrian staircase between Charlotte Avenue and Schwebel Street is poorly lit, with overgrown vegetation obscuring vision.
2. That Council as soon as is practicable, trim back the surrounding vegetation, repairing or replacing lighting sources and installing additional lighting, with works to be undertaken within the scope of the existing roads or parks maintenance budget.
3. That Council prioritise renewal of this asset, as the fencing has fallen into disrepair and the stairs are worn and at a hazardous gradient, with works to be undertaken within the scope of the existing roads or parks maintenance budget.
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Background
Local residents have raised concerns that the staircase between Charlotte Ave and Schwebel St is poorly maintained and unsafe for users at night.
The current condition of the vegetation near the stairs reduces vision significantly and detracts from the environmental quality of the surrounding area. The lighting nearby the staircase is insufficient at night.
Residents have requested that the staircase be made safer for users by trimming the vegetation and increasing lighting for the area.
Director Lead:
Manod Wickramasinghe, Acting Director Engineering
Officer’s Comments:
Maintenance works can be funded under existing operational budgets. Any renewal of the staircase will require the project to be scoped and a capital works budget to be identified. Any renewal or replacement of the stairs would be subject to design and heritage approval prior to construction being scheduled.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Heating the Annandale Community Centre
From: Councillor Philippa Scott
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MOTION
That Council officers prepare a report, including a budget and funding source, investigating the installation of energy-efficient heating solutions for the main hall of the Annandale Community Centre, including options for reverse-cycle air conditioning, which was omitted from the recent renovation.
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Background
Once the former Annandale Council Chambers and Town Hall, the Annandale Community Centre is a heritage building with spacious interiors. Annandale Community Centre is much loved and well used by community groups including P&C groups, playgroup, and yoga classes. However, the absence of heating in the main hall has raised concerns among community groups and users, particularly during colder months. Following recent renovations, the older electric bar heaters were removed due to inefficiency and high energy consumption, but they should be replaced with an energy efficient alternative.
The main hall is a vital space for various community activities, and ensuring a comfortable environment is essential for user satisfaction, especially during winter. Council staff have expressed interest in pursuing heating solutions for the community room, recognising the importance of this issue. Efforts have already been made to provide effective heating and cooling in the lower areas of the facility. The investigation should focus on energy-efficient options, such as reverse-cycle air conditioning, which can provide effective heating while aligning with Council's commitment to reducing energy use and emissions.
In light of the importance of this matter for community wellbeing, I request Council staff investigate and explore viable solution, and report back to Councillors via a briefing note that includes a budget.
Director Lead:
Peter Shields, Acting Director Property & Major Projects
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Pedestrian Crossings at Norton Street and William Street intersection, Leichhardt
From: Councillor Philippa Scott
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MOTION
That Council officers prepare a report, including identification of budget and funding sources, at the next opportunity for the Local Transport Forum to investigate the installation of pedestrian crossings across the remaining three legs of the intersection of Norton Street and William Street, Leichhardt.
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Background
The intersection of Norton Street and William Street in Leichhardt is a critical area of high pedestrian activity, particularly for students from Sydney Secondary College, Leichhardt, Leichhardt Public School, and St Columba’s Catholic Primary School; park visitors to Pioneers Park, which has been recently upgraded to be more family-friendly; public transport users crossing to the 445 and 438 bus stop on Norton Street; and visitors to Norton Street’s businesses.
Currently, there is a marked pedestrian crossing across one leg of the intersection, but the remaining three legs lack appropriate pedestrian facilities.
Installing pedestrian crossings across all legs of the intersection would enhance safety for students and other pedestrians, aligning with Council’s commitment to create a pedestrian-friendly environment.
Council should prioritise this investigation, using Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan (PAMP), grant or other Council funds, to ensure the safety of our community's children and to promote safer pedestrian access throughout the Leichhardt precinct.
A picture below shows the existing crossing, where others could be added.
Director Lead:
Manod Wickramasinghe, Acting Director Engineering
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Centenary Park cricket net upgrades
From: Councillors Jo Carlisle and Philippa Scott
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MOTION
1. That Council request that Council Officers include improvements to the cricket nets at Centenary Park, including increasing the height of the structure and identifying any other design or safety enhancements to improve usability, in the upgrade to Centenary Park planned for 2027-2028.
2. That Council request that the proposed cricket net improvements be incorporated into the report back to Council on the Centenary Park upgrade, and included in the budget for the park renovation.
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Background
Centenary Park is an important community asset in Croydon, hosting sporting fields, clubrooms, basketball courts, cricket nets, a playground and a children’s bike track, and is home to the much‑loved Wests Croydon Bowling Club. The park is utilised by hundreds of Inner West residents each week.
Council has been working with Burwood Football Club and Ashfield Cricket Club on upgrades to the sporting fields at Centenary Park to maximise utilisation, particularly for junior sport.
Council has consulted with sporting clubs and the broader community on the proposed options for upgrades of the sporting field, including installation of hybrid turf in high wear areas of the oval, including the sidelines and goal areas, while retaining natural grass throughout most of the field. Community consultation closed on 25 March 2026 and feedback is currently being considered, with a report to be provided to Council.
An in‑person pop‑up consultation was undertaken on 21 March 2026, where Council staff explained the options for the upgrades in detail and sought feedback on other potential improvements to Centenary Park. This engagement was positively received by attendees.
The existing cricket nets at Centenary Park are not highly functional. In particular, the limited height of the structure restricts effective practice and presents potential safety concerns due to ricocheting balls.
The upgrade to Centenary Park is scheduled to take place between November 2027 and March 2028.
Director Lead:
Peter Shields, Acting Director Property & Major Projects
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: South Dulwich Hill Traffic Review
From: Councillors Jessica D'Arienzo and Jo Carlisle
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MOTION
1. That Council acknowledges the implementation of InnerWest@40 in South Dulwich Hill to lower the speed limits to 40km/hr.
2. That Council conducts updated traffic counts around South Dulwich Hill including intersections at Wardell Road and Riverside Crescent, Ewart Street and Wardell Road, Ness Avenue and Tennyson Street, Ness Avenue and Garnet Street.
3. That Council refers this matter to the Local Traffic Forum for further consideration, including a review of current traffic volumes, speeds and pedestrian and cyclist counts on Ness Avenue, Tennyson Street and Garnet Street, review the effectiveness of the Wardell Road and Riverside Crescent left-turn ban in reducing local through traffic, sightlines, accessibility and potential safety improvements with a report at the Traffic Forum within 6 months.
4. That Council investigates the feasibility of traffic calming measures, additional signage, line marking, speed reduction treatments, or shared zone declarations in South Dulwich Hill to be included in the report to the Local Traffic Forum.
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Background
As part of the Greenway Masterplan, Inner West Council commissioned a feasibility traffic assessment of on-road sections and at-grade crossings, including the Cooks River extension from Hercules Street. That assessment noted that all local roads in the corridor were suitable for a mixed traffic environment subject to appropriate line marking, signage and wayfinding.
Since that time, traffic and land use conditions in South Dulwich Hill have continued to evolve. Residents have raised concerns about vehicle speeds and cut-through traffic on Ness Avenue and Tennyson Street, and about stop sign compliance at the Garnet Street intersection. The corridor also serves a growing and diverse range of Greenway users, including cyclists and families with children.
With the introduction of 40km/hr speed limits across South Dulwich Hill under InnerWest@40, now is an appropriate time to assess current conditions and determine whether further safety treatments are warranted along this corridor.
Director Lead:
Manod Wickramasinghe, Acting Director Engineering
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Support for Addi Road 50th Anniversary
From: Councillors Mat Howard and Jo Carlisle
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MOTION
1. That Council resolves to support Addison Road Community Organisation in principle to deliver its 50th anniversary celebrations, subject to operational capacity and relevant approvals.
2. That Council resolves to request that Council officers liaise with Addi Road to identify suitable in‑kind support opportunities, including event promotion, planning and logistical advice, traffic management coordination, and operational support where feasible.
3. That Council resolves to recognise and acknowledge Addi Road’s 50‑year contribution to the Inner West and the broader community through Council communications.
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Background
Addison Road Community Organisation (Addi Road) will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a free, public, all‑day event on 17 October 2026, activating the Addi Road precinct.
The event will feature talks, workshops, panels, films, visual art, projections, food, and live entertainment, highlighting Addi Road’s history and its contribution to multiculturalism, community development and social justice.
The celebrations will include participation by Addi Road tenants and community organisations and the creation of a 50th anniversary archive and time capsule documenting Addi Road’s legacy in 2026.
Director Lead:
Ruth Callaghan, Director Community
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Transitioning to Independence from Vehicle Ownership
From: Councillor Vicki Clay
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MOTION
1. That Council conduct a series of workshops across the LGA for community members, in particular seniors, who are on pensions or fixed incomes.
2. That the workshops provide informative outlines of what transitioning away from vehicle ownership means, with the benefits and the alternatives that allow continued independence, at a point in time when the cost of vehicle ownership can become onerous for community members.
3. That Council include public transport and car share information segments in the workshops as the alternatives to vehicle ownership.
4. That Council include peer presenters who have successfully made the transition away from vehicle ownership to participate in discussions with attendees to share their experiences.
5. That Council deliver a report to the June 2026 meeting outlining the program schedule, promotion plan and potential costs where the funding cannot be accommodated in existing budgets.
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Background
One of the common discussions had with seniors is from well-meaning family members, asking their loved ones how long they should continue to drive, and expressing concerns about their safety in doing so, and the associated costs. This can create a level of fear around the ‘loss of independence’ as a result of giving up driver’s licences and vehicles. Invariably these difficult conversations get ‘pushed aside’ or ‘shut down’ rather than discussions had on a less emotive level about the alternative options, while still retaining a driver’s licence.
With a fast-moving landscape around costs of owning and maintaining a vehicle, there is growing financial pressure on seniors, with limited fixed incomes without potential for growth, or on age pensions, to finance the annual costs of owning a vehicle. For example, my own vehicle, while only a small 4 cylinder that is mainly used for travel within the Inner West, has cost me an estimated $2700 in the past 12 months to cover CTP Insurance, Comprehensive Insurance, annual services and petrol. This doesn’t include depreciation or a future need for new tyres. This has equated to $222 a month. In the months when my vehicle has been rarely used, and I take public transportation, my travel costs have been averaging $20 a month, due to the cap on daily rates for Senior Opal card holders. Plus, an occasional taxi for returning home from attendance at evening events. That is a substantial difference of $200 a month that would be saved without vehicle ownership and could be better utilised towards the payment of other cost of living expenses.
A workshop as an information session to meet with other seniors who have transitioned away from vehicle ownership, and the various adjustments they have made in their routines, would assist community members uncertain about whether or not to retain their vehicle. Advice from public transport and car share providers (for those who wish to retain their driver’s licence) would be included in the workshop to inform on the various choices available.
There are a wide variety of public transport routes across the Inner West offered by trains, Metro, buses and light rail, we have the opportunity to plan out a full day without needing to own a vehicle. For those who choose to transition away from reliance on vehicle ownership, there would also be the added benefit of keeping active to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Director Lead:
Manod Wickramasinghe, Acting Director Engineering
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Expanding FOGO to Multi-Unit Dwellings
From: Councillor Mat Howard
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MOTION
1. That Council welcomes the NSW Government mandate requiring councils to provide a Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) service to households by 2030, noting that exemptions may apply to certain multi-unit dwellings (MUDs) where provision is not currently feasible.
2. That Council acknowledges that Inner West Council, beginning with the former Leichhardt Council, has been an early adopter of FOGO services in multi-unit dwellings and continues to show leadership in food recycling by having expanded FOGO to all single dwelling homes and embracing the local circular economy.
3. That Council affirms its commitment to expanding access to FOGO services to as many multi-unit dwelling households as practicable, and sets a goal that every household in the Inner West will have access to FOGO services, recognising the environmental benefits of diverting food waste from landfill.
4. That Council requests that Council officers prepare and report back in September 2026 on a plan to increase the uptake of FOGO services in multi-unit dwellings across the Inner West, including but not limited to: a) Any requirements for Inner West Council to expand FOGO to MUDs as part of the State Government mandate; b) Identification of barriers to MUDs participating in FOGO; c) Opportunities to expand FOGO take-up in MUDs; d) Potential milestones and targets for take-up of FOGO in MUDs; e) Communications and collateral that could be used to increase the take up of FOGO in MUDs; f) Potential costs and resources required; g) Any learnings or feedback from engagement with strata committees, residents of multi-unit dwellings or building owners who already have FOGO services; and h) Any policy, infrastructure or advocacy measures required.
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Background
Inner West Council has a long and proud history of leadership in waste management and the adoption of food recycling (FOGO).
The former Leichhardt Council introduced a pilot of food recycling for multi-unit dwellings in 2008 and Inner West Council subsequently expanded the trial to other suburbs before introducing FOGO to every single dwelling household in 2023.
The NSW Government has now mandated the rollout of FOGO services to households by 2030. However, the mandate recognises the practical challenges of servicing multi-dwelling units (MUDs), with exemptions available for certain buildings where space, design or infrastructure constraints limit feasibility.
MUDs represent a significant proportion of Inner West housing, and with the increased density, this proportion is set to grow.
Expanding access to FOGO services in these settings is critical to maximizing waste diversion, reducing landfill, and supporting the State’s circular economy objectives.
While some MUDs already participate successfully, others face barriers including bin storage, contamination risks, and building design. Many residents in MUDs want to participate in FOGO, but do not know how to request or implement the services.
A clear, proactive plan will ensure Council continues its leadership role and supports more residents to access FOGO where feasible.
Director Lead:
Simone Plummer, Director Planning
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Metro Activations in Marrickville and Dulwich Hill
From: Councillors Mat Howard and Jessica D'Arienzo
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MOTION
1. That Council develop a plan to celebrate the opening of the Metro from Sydenham to Bankstown, due to take place in the second half of 2026.
2. That Council acknowledge that businesses and residents in Marrickville and Dulwich Hill have experienced significant disruption during the period of the conversion, but that once the service is open, significant numbers of people from across Sydney will visit our suburbs and support local businesses and residents will have access to a rapid public transport service every 4 minutes in the peak.
3. That Council request Council staff join with Service NSW to doorknock local businesses in the precincts surrounding Marrickville and Dulwich Hill stations to assess how council can assist in the period leading up to the opening and determine what support might be useful post-opening.
4. That Council notes planning by council staff to improve the public domain in Illawarra Road and Dulwich Hill funded through the Mainstreet Revitalisation Program, forming part of the 2026-2027 Budget considerations.
5. That a report be brought back to the June 2026 Council meeting detailing a plan for activations at the precincts surrounding Sydenham, Marrickville and Dulwich Hill stations that includes, but is not limited to: a) Public domain activations, including banners, posters, or other decorations b) Provide businesses with Inner West Council pennants and collateral c) A wayfinding plan, including footpath decals, signage and a precinct map surrounding stations, to connect people to key local attractions and shopping centres d) Encouraging and facilitating buskers to perform in public spaces and parks in close vicinity to Sydenham, Marrickville and Dulwich Hill stations e) Activations in the Calvert Street carpark, aligned with the Plug and Play program, and in the new public square adjacent to Dulwich Hill Station f) A shopfront window dressing competition, welcoming visitors to our suburbs g) Other low-cost activities or initiatives that support local businesses and showcase our business districts
6. That Council request officers to write to the Minister for Public Transport and Night-time Economy to inquire about funding opportunities to support events and local activations as detailed above, otherwise, consider funding as part of the 2025-2026 budget process.
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Background
The opening of the Sydney Metro City & Southwest extension from Sydenham to Bankstown in the second half of 2026 represents a once-in-a-generation investment in public transport for Sydney’s inner west.
For suburbs such as Marrickville and Dulwich Hill, the transition period has been challenging. Construction impacts, changes to transport arrangements, and reduced foot traffic in some areas have created disruption for local businesses and residents alike.
However, the completion of the Sydney Metro presents a significant opportunity to showcase our town centres as vibrant, accessible destinations, with the best shopping, hospitality, services and night-life in the city.
With turn-up-and-go services every four minutes in peak periods, the Metro will dramatically improve connectivity, bringing new visitors from across Sydney into Marrickville and Dulwich Hill. This has the potential to drive increased foot traffic, support local economic recovery, and showcase the unique character of our main streets.
There is a clear opportunity for Council to play a proactive role in ensuring that local businesses are well placed to benefit from this transition. Thoughtful, well-coordinated activations can help signal that these precincts are open, welcoming, and ready to receive visitors. Initiatives such as public domain decorations, live music and busking, creative use of underutilised spaces, and shopfront activations can create a sense of celebration while directly supporting local traders.
By engaging early with businesses and leveraging partnerships with the NSW Government, Council can help maximise the economic and social benefits of the Metro opening, while recognising and responding to the impacts experienced during the construction phase.
Director Lead:
Simone Plummer, Director Planning
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Concordia Club Carpark
From: Councillor Mat Howard
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MOTION
1. That Council note the exciting work to install a canoe ramp on the Cooks River, which will provide a safe, accessible way to launch into the river.
2. That Council acknowledge that the construction for this project has impacted the neighbouring Concordia Club, with heavy vehicles and equipment contributing to the deterioration of the carpark, which is partially owned by Inner West Council and the Concordia Club via NSW Crown Lands.
3. That Council welcome that resurfacing of the council portion of the carpark are included in the 2026-2027 Budget.
4. That given the impact of council’s extensive and prolonged construction work, agree to resurface the whole of the Concordia Club carpark, as a once-off, and that this be funded through either the budget for the Cooks River Canoe Ramp, the existing budget allocation for the carpark renewal or general road maintenance budget.
5. That the carpark resurfacing be prioritised for as early as practicable in the 2026-2027 financial year, and following consultation with the Concordia Club.
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Background
The construction of the Cooks River canoe ramp is a positive project that will enhance recreational access and activate the river corridor.
However, extensive delays and intensive construction, including heavy vehicle movements, have had a significant impact on the neighbouring Concordia Club, particularly the carpark it shares with council.
The surface has deteriorated markedly, with large potholes impeding vehicle access and creating safety and accessibility challenges, especially for elderly patrons, patrons with young families, and patrons with limited mobility.
These impacts have also affected Club operations, including limiting deliveries.
The Properties Team and other divisions at Inner West Council have been responsive and supportive, and have assisted with several issues faced but he Club during construction.
However, with the canoe ramp project coming to a close, it is important to note that while partial resurfacing is planned, a holistic response is warranted given the scale and duration of disruption.
Completing a full resurfacing of the carpark represents a fair and practical outcome, with likely economies of scale, that restores safe access and supports this important local community venue.
Director Lead:
Manod Wickramasinghe, Acting Director Engineering
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Supporting LGBTQ+ Businesses in the Inner West
From: Councillors Mat Howard and Deputy Mayor, Chloe Smith
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MOTION
1. That Council acknowledges and celebrates the important contribution of LGBTQ+ owned and inclusive businesses and venues, to the cultural, social and economic life of the Inner West.
2. That Council notes the Inner West is increasingly acknowledged as a leading hub for LGBTQ+ culture, small business and nightlife in Sydney, attracting visitors, fostering inclusion, and strengthening the local economy.
3. That Council commits to supporting local LGBTQ+ businesses and venues through practical measures including: a) Promotion of LGBTQ+ business via council channels; b) Taking out an advertisement in LGBTQ+ focused media in the coming month promoting the Inner West as a hub for LGBTQ+ business, venues, events and organisations, including those coordinated by Inner West Council, funded through the existing communications budget or the Tourism Strategy, and following consideration of sharing costs with the City of Sydney; c) Inclusion in economic development and night-time economy strategies; and d) Exploring opportunities for grants, events, and partnerships that enhance visibility and sustainability.
4. That Council co-hosts a roundtable with the City of Sydney for LGBTQ+ businesses, venues, and community stakeholders including the Pride Business Association (PBA), to identify priorities, barriers, challenges and opportunities, and to inform future Council initiatives.
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Background
The Inner West has long been a welcoming and diverse community, with our suburbs playing a central role in Sydney’s LGBTQ+ culture.
Recent developments, including the opening of The Stonewall Newtown, reflect a growing concentration of explicitly LGBTQ+ venues and businesses, or LGBTQ+ owned businesses, in the area, including (but not limited to):
● Miss Wolf (Marrickville)
● The Red Rattler (Marrickville)
● Sock Drawer Heroes (Petersham)
● Shane Ave (Leichhardt)
● Leichhardt Women’s Community Health Centre (Leichhardt)
● Let’s Do Fitness (Marrickville)
● Movemethod (Lilyfield)
● Body & Movement Collective (Croydon)
● Omnivorium Specialty Providores (Marrickville)
● Flourdrum (Newtown)
● Duti Dance Studios (City of Sydney; Newtown)
● Dowson Turco Lawyers (City of Sydney; Newtown)
● The Imperial Hotel (City of Sydney; Erskineville)
● The Newtown Hotel (City of Sydney; Newtown)
● The Bank Hotel (City of Sydney; Newtown)
● That Retro Piece (Newtown)
● Uncanny (Newtown)
This in addition to the Pride Centre and Pride Square in Newtown, means the Inner West continues to be a key destination for inclusive hospitality, creative industries and community connection.
Supporting local LGBTQ+ businesses not only strengthens the local economy but reinforces the Inner West’s identity as an inclusive, vibrant and progressive place.
A coordinated Council approach can help sustain this momentum and ensure LGBTQ+ businesses in the Inner West continue to thrive.
Director Lead:
Simone Plummer, Director Planning
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
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Council Meeting 21 April 2026 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Pride Centre Activations
From: Councillor Mat Howard
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MOTION
1. That Council acknowledges that the Inner West Pride Centre, led by Twenty10, has been open for over 18 months and provides a critical services and space for LGBTQ+ people from across the Inner West.
2. That Council supports the continuation and expansion of community impact at the Inner West Pride Centre through public facing events and programming.
3. That Council considers the allocation of $75,000 in the 2026-2027 Budget to support funding for events in the Inner West Pride Centre, including (but not limited to): a) Seniors Morning Teas b) Specialist talks c) Mardi Gras and Pride Month events d) Open days e) Drag story times f) Drop-in sessions to support LGBTQ+ Inner West residents with services, including free legal advice.
4. That Council continue to offer programs and events at the Inner West Pride Centre and explore the establishment of monthly markets at the Pride Centre.
5. That if adopted as part of the 2026-2027 Budget, request staff meet with Twenty10 and other relevant stakeholders and report back to Council with a schedule of programs and events at the September 2026 Council meeting.
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Background
The Inner West Pride Centre opened 18 months ago and was established to provide a welcoming and visible home for LGBTQ+ people in the community, offering connection, safety and support.
The Centre, which is led by Twenty10, reflects the Inner West’s long history as a place of inclusion and diversity, and plays a key role in strengthening community life.
At a time when LGBTQ+ communities are facing renewed hostility and uncertainty in New South Wales, across Australia and globally, there is a clear need to invest in spaces that bring people together.
Expanding events and programming at the Centre will help build connection, celebrate community and ensure people feel supported, visible and proud.
Director Lead:
Ruth Callaghan, Director Community
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
