Date: 13 February 2024
Recommendation: That the information be noted.
Welcome to an exciting 2024; I anticipate the year ahead will be filled with stimulating and interesting debate as we approach the NSW local government election in September.
It's a critical year to reflect on our local needs, collaborate on solutions, and capitalise on opportunities to make a real impact in our community. We should prioritise fostering a culture of open dialogue and actively listen to the community's needs, engage in constructive debates, and provide clear, actionable plans for improvement.
We can work together to ensure that single issues don't dominate the September 2024 election debate and that we strive for an election that genuinely represents the diverse needs and aspirations of our community, fostering open conversations and innovative ideas.
Strong Start to 2024
Our popular event program started with exceptional enthusiasm in 2024, with various celebrations to unite our community and recognise what is great about our city.
New Year’s Eve in Koshigaya saw record crowds, with 25,000 people coming together to enjoy an evening of entertainment, attractions, and fireworks in our city centre. Campbelltown’s Australia Day event celebrations in Koshigaya Park saw 10,000 community members enjoying a program of Australian music and a relaxed, fun, and family-friendly atmosphere, with various activities on offer.
I also had the honour of presenting Australian Citizenship to 152 of our residents in two citizenship ceremonies on Australia Day and announcing the recipients of this year’s Australia Day Awards.
The following residents were recognised for their ongoing contributions to Campbelltown:
- Citizen of the Year – Samantha Oakes
- Young Citizen of the Year – Hayleigh Keogh
- Senior Citizen of the Year – Ian Shepherd
- Environmental Citizen of the Year award - Rita Mikolaitis
- Sports Award of the Year – Angela Jean Fowler
- Community Group Initiative of the Year award – Eden College
Thank you to all of those who nominated these outstanding members of our community and to the nominees and the winners for the contributions they make to our city every day. I would also like to thank the Australia Day Awards Selection Committee for assisting in assessing this year’s nominations to recognise these worthy winners.
I look forward to our exciting event program continuing this year, with various events scheduled in the coming months, including Ingleburn Alive, Challenge Walk and Ramadan on Q.
Highlights of Achievements in 2023
I’d like to begin the year by reflecting on our achievements from 2023.
Development of our City
2023 was marked by significant strides in development and planning within our community. Key milestones included the finalisation and approval of the Ingleburn CBD Planning Proposal and the endorsement of the Rosalind Park Planning Proposal, which has been forwarded to the Government for a Gateway Determination. Noteworthy achievements also encompassed the reclassification and rezoning of the Animal Care Facility, alongside receiving Gateway Determinations for multiple planning proposals across the region. The year further saw the amendment of the Campbelltown Local Infrastructure Contributions Plan and the gazetting of Amendment No 34 for Blairmount Heritage, highlighting our commitment to preserving our cultural heritage.
Our development team determined 446 development applications with a combined capital investment value surpassing $750 million. The team also attended 31 pre-lodgement meetings to discuss future development opportunities and six Design Excellence Panel meetings.
Their efforts facilitated significant housing supply initiatives in response to the NSW Government’s call, approving developments that promise over a thousand new residential opportunities. These projects are pivotal in meeting the growing demand for residential spaces within our community and in diversifying the housing options available to our residents.
Among the key developments: Menangle Park has approved two stages—Stage 4 South and Stage 3 North—adding 595 residential lots to the area, the approval of 131 new residential lots at Maryfields Estate and the addition of 90 residential lots in Gilead. Unfortunately, and despite our best of efforts, the Figtree Hill release continued to be held up awaiting an approval from the State Government on the upgrade of Appin Road.
An approval was also given to a significant urban development project at 22-32 Queen Street, Campbelltown, featuring 558 apartments across five residential towers, which promises to deliver modern urban living spaces in the city centre, has also been approved.
Student accommodation has been increased with the approval of new accommodation facilities for 180 students at the Hurlstone Agricultural High School Farm Hub facility, which highlights our focus on supporting educational communities and fostering a conducive learning environment.
Ensuring a high standard of compliance and safety throughout the city, Development Compliance team responded to 468 building and unauthorised use matters and conducted 268 swimming pool inspections. Our team responded to 1,540 parking-related complaints, 1,066 unattended motor vehicle, and 913 companion animal-related complaints.
In addition to the above, upholding our commitment to a safe and healthy community, our Environmental Health Officers undertook an incredibly high number of public area inspections, with 1,064 food premises inspections, 273 public health premises inspections and 224 wastewater management system inspections to ensure our community’s safety in these venues.
Support for our Businesses and Community
2023 was a year of fostering community and business growth, with our Outdoor Dining Grants program revitalising local eateries and contributing over $120,000 towards outdoor dining improvements. Our public facilities saw record visitations again, reflecting the vibrant community life our services support. The Campbelltown Arts Centre welcomed 91,673 visitors, and our libraries welcomed over 320,000 people in 2023.
Our childcare services provided quality care to 860 children, with four of our services being recognised for their excellence in meeting or exceeding national standards, which is the highest percentage of services exceeding those of any provider in our LGA.
The enthusiasm for our swim school program and participation in athletics and swimming carnivals at the Campbelltown Athletics Centre continues, we had 4,159 swim school enrolments, delivering 39,570 swim school classes and hosting 69 schools' swimming carnivals. Our school children also enjoyed 121 athletics carnivals at the Campbelltown Athletics Centre.
The Campbelltown Sports Stadium witnessed unprecedented attendance, with 77,865 attendees throughout the year across 41 activations. We were 1 of only 28 venues across Australia and New Zealand to host a team for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup with the South Korean team calling Campbelltown their temporary home and were awarded a FIFA pitch rating of 5/5.
Further enhancement to our facilities has increased our fitness classes and expanded our fitness membership base to include 1,670 fitness classes and 1,888 members obtaining fitness memberships at our gyms, the highest level of both on record.
The Visitor Information Centre in our city witnessed a remarkable surge in visitation, experiencing a 40% increase with a total of 5,680 visitors from local, interstate, and international backgrounds. The Centre also received prestigious recognition in 2023, being rated the number one attraction in Campbelltown on Trip Advisor.
Our Animal Care Facility hosted 1,454 animals throughout the year, with 1,317 animals sold, rescued, or released to their owners.
New and Improved Infrastructure
Throughout the year, our City Services team has made remarkable strides in enhancing the infrastructure and public spaces across the Campbelltown LGA, significantly improving the quality of life for our residents and visitors.
Here's a comprehensive overview of the key achievements.
Approximately 245,000 m² of roads were resurfaced, including major projects on Eagle Vale Drive, Raby Road, Slater Road, Eagleview Road, Englorie Park Drive, and Parkside Crescent. The program also included 7,000 m² of heavy patching for essential road repairs.
Following the 2022 flood event, we efficiently reconstructed flood-damaged roads, covering approximately 650m of Georges River Road, 1.2km of Hansens Road, 1.8km of Minerva Road, 500m of O’ Hares Road, 700m of Peters Meadows Road, and 550m of Wedderburn Road.
The team has undertaken the replacement of 6,500 m² of footpaths across more than 1,000 locations, alongside 3,200 linear meters of kerb and gutter replacements. Additionally, 1.5 km of new footpaths and 485 m of new cycleways were constructed to enhance pedestrian and cyclist accessibility.
Our efforts included bus shelter installations, pedestrian crossings, and traffic devices at various locations.
2023 also saw the treatment of 45,000m² of car parks at key locations such as Ambarvale Sports Complex and Lynwood Park, among others. This initiative ensures better access to our city's recreational facilities.
The introduction of McBroomie, our footpath sweeper, alongside our hot water pressure washer, played pivotal roles in maintaining cleanliness across CBD areas, parks, and public venues, accumulating 1,070 service hours for McBroomie alone.
Our proactive approach to graffiti removal, litter bin servicing, and tree management has significantly contributed to the city's cleanliness and greenery, fostering a more pleasant urban environment. Graffiti removal responded to 1,230 requests, and diligent attention to street and park litter bins resulted in the servicing of approximately 402 bins each week, totalling 19,296 bins. Our efforts to maintain cleanliness in the city also extended to collecting 3,764 reported dumps and managing trees with 200 removals, 900 prunings, and 714 plantings.
Recycling and Waste Management saw initiatives to repurpose 378.94 tonnes of road sweepings and the comprehensive collection of residential waste, totalling approximately 66,108 tonnes of kerbside clean-ups. We collected 2,608,602 general waste bins, 1,162,338 recycling bins, and 659,594 organic bins from our residents.
Our Environmental Protection Officers responded to 1,332 requests from the public and undertook 3,125 illegal dumping investigations. while the recently opened Community Recycling Facility on Hepher Road, Campbelltown had 10,920 visitors and contributed to diverting around 135,491 kilograms of waste from landfill.
Sports field care involved 570 tonnes of top dressing, 155 hectares of renovations, and treatment of 539 hectares for weeds, pests, and diseases. A total of 40 tonnes and 1,790 litres of fertiliser were applied to sports fields.
Our public space assets program achievements encompassed synthetic grass renewal at Macquarie Field Park, Monarch Oval, Glen Alpine Tennis Court, floodlight renewal at Campbelltown Showground Park and Kooringa Reserve, fencing replacement at our Animal Care Facility, and shade sail replacements at various locations including Field House Reserve, Mandurama Reserve, Willowdale Park, and Campbelltown Sports Stadium.
Major bridge works, stormwater drainage renewal, and public space asset programs were also successfully completed, featuring projects such as asphalt sheeting on the Gilchrist Drive Bridge and stormwater pipe relining in Macquarie Fields.
Our efforts also included bus shelter installations, pedestrian crossings, and traffic devices at various locations. From synthetic grass renewal at various parks to floodlight upgrades and shade sail replacements, our team has diligently worked to enhance the usability and aesthetic of our public spaces.
Projects for our City’s Future
Our Project Delivery team saw the Development Application for the HJ Daley Library’s relocation to its temporary site on Queen Street officially lodged.
Ongoing construction activities in the Billabong Parklands have seen the completion of structural, tiling and artificial rockery works for the water bodies, substantial progress on the amenities building and pump room, and extensive landscaping activities throughout the precinct.
At Raby Sport Complex, the former Indoor Centre has been demolished, paving the way for ground-breaking and construction activities for the new Indoor Sports Centre.
Initiating the enhancement of Bob Prenter Reserve, groundwork for the new field lighting has commenced, with upgrades scheduled for completion before the start of the 2024 Winter Sporting Season.
The Farrow Road Commuter Carpark construction contract was awarded, with onsite works set to commence in February 2024.
Western Sydney Infrastructure Grant (formerly known as WestInvest) project planning works have progressed, with the funding deeds expected shortly. Our Project Management Office continues to mature, strengthening Councils project delivery capability, enhanced reporting transparency and visibility.
Supporting our Environmental Assets
Continuing the Koalatown campaign, we achieved milestones such as establishing Koalatown Certified Schools and Koalatown Certified Properties, accomplishing habitat restoration, conducting biennial koala monitoring, and initiating the most comprehensive vehicle strike hotspot project in the history of the LGA.
Embarking on a ground-breaking initiative, we commenced the development of Council’s inaugural Urban Greening Plan, aimed at augmenting and safeguarding the tree canopy throughout the LGA.
Striving to enhance public recreation and amenity, we both completed and initiated work on significant bushland upgrades, including projects at Ingleburn Reserve and Keith Longhurst Reserve.
Initiating largescale site restoration works at Campbelltown and Macquarie Fields Grey Headed Flying Fox (GHFF) camps as part of our GHFF Camp Management Plans, we dedicated efforts to restore 3.87 hectares of land.
Our commitment to environmental stewardship is evident in the completion of priority weed management across 134.4 hectares of land, conducting 234 private property inspections and addressing 17 new priority weed incursions to safeguard our local environment.
In fostering community engagement with the environment, we successfully delivered 76 community events and environmental workshops, captivating the interest of 8,065 community members.
Under our Bushfire Management Programs, we accomplished 31.8 hectares of Bushfire Protection Zone maintenance and 25.65 kilometres of fire trail maintenance.
To bolster urban tree canopy and biodiversity, we planted 6,626 trees across reserves throughout the LGA, reinforcing our dedication to sustainable green practices.
Improving our Open Space
Our dedicated Open Space team has accomplished a series of notable achievements, including the successful Beersheba Memorial Palm planting, and the Steven Tougher Memorial Tree planting initiative in Koshigaya Park.
The enhancement of recreational spaces was further exemplified through the completion of projects such as the James Ruse Park Playspace, Satsukino Park Playspace and the Queen Street Improvements. The sod has recently been turned on the Marsden Park District Playspace.
Continuing their impactful contributions, the team successfully executed the Queen’s Jubilee planting along Camden Road and installed shade structures as seven playspaces, including Digger Reserve, Eschol Park Sports Complex, Kenny Reserve, Rizal Park, Lorraine Cibilic Reserve, Hallinan Park, and Macquarie Fields Park.
In addition to these on ground achievements, the Open Space team has been actively engaged in planning projects, such as updating the Memorials and Monuments in Public Open Space Policy. They have embarked masterplan design initiatives for key open space areas like Varroville Reserve, Rosemeadow Sports Complex and Koshigaya Park, and has collaborated with the Department of Planning on the Glenfield Parklands Master Plan ensuring a comprehensive approach to the stewardship of our Open Spaces.
Celebrating our Residents
We held 19 citizenship ceremonies, welcoming a total of 1465 new Australians in 2023. We celebrated 227 HSC High Achievers and also recognised 51 local organisations, whose 1035 volunteers contributed more than 216,000 hours of their time to our community.
Advocating for our City
In advocacy, we wrote over 200 letters to Ministers and Shadow Ministers making representations on critical issues for Campbelltown and engaged in 27 meetings with Ministers, Shadow Ministers and Members of Parliament across both NSW and the Commonwealth. We secured a total of $179,234,994 in grants from the NSW Government, including the competitive round of Western Sydney Infrastructure Program (formally known as WestInvest) and $2,574,247 from the Commonwealth Government during 2023.
Supporting our City’s Growth
We have sought alternative revenue growth opportunities outside of traditional sources of rates and grants. In accordance with Council’s Investment Property Policy, robust strategy and governance framework, we have been successful in growing Council’s commercial property portfolio from approximately $25 million in 2018 to $134 million in 2023. Combining both gross income and capital growth for the period the commercial property portfolio has generated a strong 15.6% total return for 2023.
This year’s result is off to a good start, with the acquisition of 10 Digitaria Drive, Gledswood Hills further enhancing Council’s portfolio. The portfolio continues to provide supplementary operating revenue to enhance Council’s service provision and diversify our revenue base.
I look forward to keeping you updated on our ongoing achievements throughout the year.
Date: 13 February 2024
Recommendation: That the information be noted.
The process of navigating social and affordable rental housing in Campbelltown involves balancing community needs, financial sustainability, and quality of life.
We represent a dynamic community that serves as a testament to resilience, inclusivity, and community spirit. Campbelltown has long been acknowledged for its housing affordability, establishing itself as an attractive option for individuals and families searching for a place to call home without the intimidating price tags commonly associated with other areas of Sydney.
Campbelltown has consistently played a crucial role in addressing the most challenging issues related to urban development, not only by addressing housing affordability but also by shouldering a disproportionate share of the responsibility for social and affordable rental housing across Sydney.
Firstly, I will delineate the distinction between these terms and their application to Campbelltown.
‘Housing affordability’ generally refers to the measure of whether a typical household has the financial capacity to purchase or rent a typical home. Several affordable ratios are commonly used, including purchase affordability, repayment affordability, and income affordability.
According to a recent speech delivered by the Minister for Housing, Sydney ranks as the sixth most expensive city for housing globally. Although this is concerning, it is crucial to contextualise it within Sydney's overall performance as a global city.
In 2023, Sydney achieved the fourth position globally regarding liveability, as reported by The Economist Intelligence Unit's Global Liveability Index. Furthermore, Sydney's global appeal was confirmed by the 2022 Anholt-Ipsos City Brand Index, which ranked Sydney as the third most appealing city worldwide. Moreover, the 2021 Global Power City Index emphasised Sydney's dedication to environmental sustainability, placing it third globally and 12th overall based on its six urban functions.
Sydney is distinguished as a global city based on numerous positive indicators, and it is imperative for the government to acknowledge the significance of liveability when considering affordability.
‘Social housing’ encompasses housing provided by state authorities (public housing), non-profit community organisations (community housing), and Indigenous organisations (Indigenous housing). Social housing policies were initially implemented in the early twentieth century and subsequently became a prevalent approach for accommodating working-class families in the post-war period. Nevertheless, there was a decrease in public housing construction in the latter part of the twentieth century, and the focus of its provision shifted towards low-income, higher-need households who were outside of the labour market.
According to a study conducted in 2023 by Western Sydney University, Campbelltown surpasses other areas in Sydney regarding the availability of social housing, with 8.4% of its housing stock allocated for this purpose, which is more than double the national average of 4%. This rate is the highest in our region, surpassing Fairfield's rate of 7.7% and Canterbury-Bankstown's rate of 7.5%. In stark contrast, Wollondilly and Camden exhibit significantly lower rates of 1% and 1.3%, respectively.
The concept of affordable rental housing has arisen in response to the decrease in social housing and the shift in policy. In New South Wales (NSW), the definition of affordable housing is provided in the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, which encompasses housing for very low-income households, low-income households, or moderate-income households as prescribed by the regulations or as provided for in an environmental planning instrument.
When analysing the availability of affordable housing, Campbelltown's rate of 1.7% is lower than Fairfield's 3.26% and Canterbury-Bankstown's 2.41%. However, it is notably higher than Camden's 0.55% and Wollondilly's 1.14%. These statistics highlight the significant role played by Campbelltown in servicing the demand for social and affordable housing.
This comparison is limited to councils in Western Sydney. The disparity becomes significantly wider when these figures are contrasted with those from the inner city and eastern suburbs, highlighting a notable imbalance. The statement raises substantial concerns regarding any proposal suggesting elevated benchmarks for social or affordable housing in Campbelltown compared to those for the inner city, eastern suburbs, Camden, or Wollondilly.
Any proposed initiative designed to expand the availability of affordable rental housing in Campbelltown to meet the community's affordable housing requirements poses a financial challenge for the ratepayers and residents of Campbelltown. Currently, the management of affordable rental housing developments, once constructed, requires management by a Community Housing Provider (CHP). The obligation for paying land rates is associated with the property's ownership and utilisation.
Affordable rental housing, which is owned and managed by Community Housing Providers (CHP) as described above, is exempt from land rates according to existing laws. This results in a transfer of the financial responsibility to other rate-paying residents, who face higher rates to offset the CHP’s exemption.
According to the Local Government Act of 1993, any loss of land rate revenue resulting from exemptions is offset by raising the rates for the remaining ratepayers in the following years. Expanding the inventory of affordable housing under the ownership and management of CHPs will increase the financial burden placed on our local residents. Within the Campbelltown Local Government Area (LGA), there are currently 123 properties that are exempt from land rates, resulting in an additional burden of $185,000 on landowners who are responsible for paying rates annually.
The disproportionate allocation of affordable rental housing projects within a specific council area to address the shortage of such housing in the surrounding LGA cluster will significantly impact our city's rates, services, and overall quality of life.
According to the liveability ranking of Sydney's 569 suburbs, the highest ranked suburb is Campbelltown at 222, followed by Macquarie Fields at 311 and Leumeah at 334. Based on this ranking, it appears that there is a significant amount of work to be done in this area.
In recent times, there has been substantial discourse regarding the reform of social and affordable rental housing by the federal and state governments. The establishment of Homes NSW is anticipated to bring about substantial changes. In her most recent media statement, the Hon Rose Jackson MLC, Minister for Housing declared, "Homes NSW will rebuild the social and affordable housing system in NSW”.
The lack of clarity surrounding the reform agenda and the ongoing uncertainty regarding the operational mechanisms of the development incentives provided by recent affordable housing reforms pose significant challenges in formulating our Affordable Housing Contribution Scheme.
While I hold a differing perspective on certain proposed ideas in the report presented by The Parks, it is evident that considerable effort has been invested in developing the framework under review. I am apprehensive, however, about the potential impact of these unknown reforms and the subsequent policies the government intends to undertake will have on Campbelltown.
Before proceeding with the development of our own scheme, it is imperative to gain a comprehensive understanding of the NSW Government's intentions, as their actions may put our residents and ratepayers at a significant disadvantage.
I have secured a meeting with the Minister for Housing in March to address these matters and additional concerns.
Date: 13 February 2024
Recommendation: That the information be noted.
In my first Mayoral Minute, I underscored the multifaceted responsibilities of a mayor, which extend beyond the formal boundaries delineated by the Local Government Act 1993 to embrace the boundaries of societal expectations within the context of our community ambitions and aspirations.
Our Council, along with other governmental bodies, operates within the confines of established pathways shaped by both formal statutes and informal traditions. Within this framework, there exists the potential for incremental reforms and adjustments, primarily facilitated through the Integrated Planning and Reporting framework. These adaptations generally align with the established direction, utilising both positive feedback and constructive criticism to refine and affirm our course.
As outlined in institutional theory, the notion of path dependence explains the challenges and constraints entrenched institutions face. It highlights the profound influence of historical events, self-reinforcing processes, and critical junctures in dictating the evolution of institutional structures.
We, as individuals or collective groups, approach the systems that govern and facilitate our progress as requiring particle modification. These modifications are critical and provide essential and ongoing improvement to our governing system and achieve better outcomes and efficiencies for our residents.
Over the last two years, we have passed many modifications to our policy frameworks, introduced new strategies, and dealt with non-functional or outdated approaches. We will continue to make these changes, and we have several others on the way, some of which I have highlighted in my previous Minutes, to be implemented before the end of the Council Term.
I believe that we are on the verge of such a critical junction that will occur with or without our cooperation. We must prepare internally and externally to take advantage of such major change and ensure we can advance the welfare of our Council and our residents.
The notion of a "critical juncture" plays a pivotal role in understanding the dynamics of institutional change and development. It refers to a period of significant transformation, where the decisions made can lead to profound and long-lasting impacts on the trajectory of an institution or a society. A critical juncture can be seen as a moment of opportunity or vulnerability, not just a challenge to be met but a gateway to potential transformation and renewal.
These junctures are characterised by their potential to catalyse substantial change by introducing new development paths and allowing for innovative solutions and novel approaches to emerge. This flexibility can enable institutions, including councils like ours, to adapt to new challenges, reinterpret their roles, and realign their strategies to better serve the needs and aspirations of their communities.
External factors often cause critical junctures, and currently, the social, political, and economic influences are converging to create a scenario for change. These forces are not merely background noise; they are powerful dynamics that shape the city and impact the residents, presenting challenges and opportunities that require thoughtful navigation.
In recent months, our Council and the community we serve have been navigating through a period of significant transformation, influenced by several critical factors that have profound implications for our collective future.
The escalating cost of living crisis, alongside rising inflation and interest rates, presents a complex challenge, not only for our residents but also for the operational dynamics of our Council. These economic pressures are compounded by increasing service costs, cost shifting, a surge in public sector expenses, and evolving conditions around contract negotiations. Such developments are poised to significantly affect our capacity to deliver services and constrain our ability to implement enhancements in the future.
Coupled with these economic pressures is the current trend of government austerity measures, characterised by reduced spending and a contraction in the grants available to councils. Additionally, the processes for obtaining and managing these grants have become increasingly complex, adding another layer of challenge to our fiscal management and strategic planning efforts.
In the current economic condition, the reduction in government spending and the availability of grants, coupled with cost-shifting from other levels of government, directly impact our ability to fund projects, initiatives, and services that are vital to our community's well-being. It necessitates a strategic reassessment of our service delivery models and an exploration of new funding mechanisms, including partnerships and alternative revenue sources.
In conjunction with the economic challenges and government spending trends, our Council must also navigate the complexities introduced by an ever-evolving planning reform that the NSW Labor Government is undertaking through piecemeal changes. The impact of the growing so-called “housing crisis” and walking away from the Western Sydney City Deal commitments are all challenges we must deal with.
Amid the prevailing economic challenges and the trend of reduced government expenditure, our Council is also confronting the complexities arising from the continuous evolution of planning reforms initiated by the NSW Labor Government. These reforms, characterised by incremental modifications, significantly influence our strategic and operational landscape.
The withdrawal from the City Deal commitments, including the commitment to our rail connection planning and rapid bus delivery, presents additional hurdles requiring careful navigation and strategic foresight.
While navigating through the myriad of challenges presented by planning reforms, the housing crisis, and shifts in government commitments, it's essential to recognise the substantial opportunities that lie ahead for our council and community. Notably the development of the new Western Sydney International Airport and its potential to create opportunities for trade and tourism on our doorstep.
Also, our robust asset and financial investment portfolio in the city herald significant prospects for growth, revitalisation, and enhanced community well-being.
Clearly, the current landscape, with its numerous challenges and opportunities, represents such a juncture for our council. The journey ahead will require resilience, foresight, and collective action. We face a unique combination of circumstances that demands our attention, strategic thinking, and decisive action.
We must prepare, both internally and externally, to harness this impending change, aiming to enhance the well-being of our Council and community. By confronting the complexities of our current situation with determination, we position our Council to not only negotiate this pivotal moment effectively but also to emerge more reinvigorated, agile, and adept at meeting our residents' changing requirements.
We have started to address these challenges head-on and to develop a strategic framework that will enable us to capitalise on this critical juncture. We are committed to keeping the Council and the community informed and engaged with our ongoing efforts and will provide comprehensive updates on the proposed framework and policies that are being developed to address these issues as soon as possible.
Date: 13 February 2024
Recommendation: That the information be noted.
I was honoured to join the Premier of NSW, Minister for Health, Member for Campbelltown, Chancellor of Western Sydney University, Chancellor of University of New South Wales, Chair of the Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, CEO of Walker Corporation, CE of the South Western Sydney Local Health District and other dignitaries, to take part in the sod turning for the Lang Walker AO Medical Research Building this morning.
The $55 million building will be home to the Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research – Macarthur. This important facility is being developed in partnership with Western Sydney University and the University of New South Wales, on the NSW Health site, adjacent to Campbelltown Hospital, made possible through the generosity of the late Lang Walker AO.
The translative research undertaken will focus on key health issues within our community including mental health, indigenous health, paediatrics and children’s wellbeing and diabetes, improving health outcomes for our community. The facility will complement the work in the adjacent Campbelltown Hospital and Macarthur Clinical School.
This facility will generate much needed higher-order jobs for our residents within the Campbelltown Health and Education Precinct, with access to the latest research laboratories and technology in a purpose built space.
I look forward to seeing our local research improve the lives of our community, and extend to patients across Australia and the globe.
Date: 26 March 2024
Recommendation: That the information be noted.
As we enter this period graced by significant religious observances, it is a profound reminder of the rich tapestry of faiths and traditions that enliven the heart of our community in Campbelltown. This month is marked by moments of deep reflection, spirited celebration, and collective contemplation for many within our vibrant city, each honouring their beliefs in a chorus of cultural harmony.
As Lenten observances end, our Christian residents prepare for Easter. Easter celebrates Jesus Christ's resurrection, an event central to the religion's beliefs about salvation and eternal life. It follows the 40-day period of Lent, a time of fasting, prayer, and penance, and comes to a crescendo during Holy Week, which includes Maundy Thursday, Good Friday (commemorating Jesus' crucifixion), and culminates in the joyous resurrection of Easter Sunday.
This monumental event is not merely a historical recollection for those who follow the Christian doctrine; it is a celebration of the victory over sin and death, a testament to the power of redemption and the hope of eternal life. Easter is the cornerstone upon which the Christian narrative pivots, affirming the belief in the divine power of Christ and his role as the Saviour.
In Campbelltown, as in many places around the world, Easter is a religious observance and a cultural event that brings people together in various ways. For those of the Christian faith, church services, prayer, and community gatherings are at the heart of the celebration.
Beyond its religious roots, Easter symbolises renewal and hope, themes that resonate across different backgrounds and beliefs. It's a time for family and community, for reflecting on the values that bind us together, and for optimistically looking forward to the future.
Many families attend sunrise services, share special meals, and partake in activities such as Easter egg hunts, which have become a beloved aspect of the holiday's modern incarnation, particularly for children.
Campbelltown's council has shared in the celebration in a small way this year by holding a community Easter egg hunt at Koshigaya Park on Saturday 23 March 2024.
Simultaneously, our Muslim community members are engaged in the sacred month of Ramadan, a profound period of observance that is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It is a time dedicated to fasting from dawn until sunset, prayer, and spiritual enrichment. This solemn commitment is a demonstration of faith and seeking closeness to the divine, where the act of fasting serves as a means to cultivate self-discipline, empathy for the less fortunate, and a more profound sense of spiritual mindfulness.
Throughout the month of Ramadan, Muslims in Campbelltown and around the world engage in additional prayers, known as Taraweeh, often performed in congregation after the breaking of the fast. It is a time when the community comes together, not just in shared worship but also in acts of charity and kindness, reinforcing the social bonds and mutual support within the community.
Ramadan is not only a personal celebration for Muslims but a communal expression of joy, gratitude, and togetherness. This year we have extended Ramadan On Q from one night to two in the Campbelltown CBD at Lithgow Street on Friday and Saturday 22 and 23 March 2024.
To all who are in the season of celebration, I extend heartfelt wishes on behalf of Campbelltown City Council. May this time be filled with peace, fellowship, and a profound sense of community. Whether with family or cherished friends, may your observances be imbued with the spirit of harmony and the warmth of togetherness. Happy Easter and Ramadan, Kareem, to one and all.
This time of year is yet another opportunity to recognise and honour the cultural richness of our shared community life. By fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding, Campbelltown continues to be a place better place. Here's to celebrating the diversity that binds us and fostering the unity that propels us forward as a community.
Date: 26 March 2024
Recommendation: That the information be noted.
In November 2023, I discussed the increased focus on transparency and accountability within local government and its decision-making processes. It is crucial to continue to engage with this dialogue, seizing every opportunity to refine our governance systems.
As such, I want to expand on a few elements of these ideas. Before I do so, I will provide a background on the Australian government system and how such a system could hinder accountability in Local Government.
The complexities of Australia’s multi-tiered government system, comprising federal, state, and local tiers, often presents challenges to transparency and accountability, particularly in local government operations. The convoluted dynamics between these tiers significantly shape national and local development trajectories with stark implications.
We see this dynamic clearly in the current housing debate.
The Federal Government has set the National Housing Accord at 1.2 million new well‑located homes over five years from mid‑2024. Varying reports suggest New South Wales would need to build 314,000 new homes by 2029, or about 75,000 a year, with complex sub-targets. While the debate around federal involvement in housing is noteworthy, I will save that discussion for a later date.
The NSW Minns Government has triggered a raft of planning reforms aimed at meeting the ambitious housing target, which has implications for and places pressure on councils throughout Sydney. I have discussed the merits of these policies previously, and I will continue to do so in the future as more information becomes available. What is essential for our discussion today is the idea of accountability.
Accountability
Accountability can be understood as an “obligation to answer for the performance of duties, paired with the correlative right of someone else, typically the person for whom the duties are performed, to demand such an answer”.
Accountability within this multi-tiered structure is a multifaceted and complex concept, requiring an understanding of who is accountable, to whom they are accountable, for what aspects of the multifaced concept they are accountable, and the mechanisms through which this accountability is exercised. In order to assess the accountability, the assessor requires visibility over the duties, performance and answer. This therefore requires transparency over these elements.
The overlapping responsibilities between government levels, as exemplified in the National Housing Accord, often result in a 'blame game' that obscures clear lines of accountability for the public. The confusion, disagreements and finger-pointing make transparency and accountability luxurious items beyond the reach of most voters, to whom the government of all levels must be accountable.
Along with campaigns, political games, and intended and unintended misinformation during elections, the mechanisms through which accountability should be exercised make it hard for everyday people to know which level of government is doing its job properly.
Determining who bears responsibility should NSW fall short of its annual housing target exemplifies this opacity. Is it the federal government for inadequately supporting infrastructure development, the state government for not providing the necessary regional infrastructure that would allow the immediate delivery of housing, or less complex planning processes that would see faster determinations of DAs, or is it local government for their final part in the determination process?
The 'blame game' serves a political purpose: to deflect failure, confuse lines of accountability and retain power. It relies on convincing voters that the deficiencies of others have hindered success. However, such deflections undermine genuine accountability and often overlook the continuous nature of governance beyond electoral cycles.
Academics and specialised commentators will generally examine the answers to the Housing Accord questions and provide commentary on its success or failure. In plain terms, public perception of the outcome will sadly be determined by a media war that will be aligned with the electoral cycle.
As we navigate these challenges, it is crucial to promote informed discussion, foster public interest in less publicised yet critical issues, and advocate for clear accountability measures across all levels of government. Only through such efforts can we ensure that government systems remain robust, responsive, and genuinely accountable to the communities they serve.
Cost Shifting
A less known, but just as critical issue as the housing accord, is cost-shifting. The dilution of accountability through complexity, lack of transparency, and blame game are worth exploring as they undermine local government's financial viability and councils' ability to deliver community-level services and maintain essential local infrastructure.
Recent studies commissioned by Local Government NSW (LGNSW) have heightened concerns, revealing that NSW Government policies are exacerbating the trend of cost shifting.
The latest report by Morrison Low, an independent consulting firm, details the fiscal impact for the 2021/2022 financial year (available at www.lgnsw.org.au/costshifting). It demonstrates an alarming $1.36 billion in expenses that have been transferred onto the shoulders of councils, and its rate payers —a $540 million increase from the figures reported in 2017/2018. This significant rise equates to a potential loss in services, opportunities, and amenities for our residents and businesses.
This burden averages out to an additional $460.67 in costs for each ratepayer across New South Wales. The implications are stark: with councils required to cover these costs for the State Government annually, our communities suffer—they receive fewer services, endure poorer infrastructure, and forgo enhancements in community facilities.
Essentially, ratepayers are unwittingly contributing to hidden taxes that benefit other levels of government. Essentially, Local Governments are held accountable for the failure of other levels of government.
Evidently, our communities deserve more favourable conditions, and this trend of financial erosion must be halted. It's imperative to recall that before the recent state election, the then Opposition Leader, now Premier, Chris Minns MP, acknowledged the detrimental effects of cost shifting on the financial health of the local government sector. Now, in 2024, it is a priority for both councils and communities to see the NSW Government swiftly and decisively address the issue of cost shifting.
This action must encompass a multifaceted approach, including regulatory reform, appropriate budget allocations, and the provision of suitable funding to ensure the sustainability and efficacy of our local governments. Most importantly, it needs to be transparent.
Transparency Over Council Briefings
As we advocate for greater openness and responsibility from other government tiers, it's crucial that we apply the same principles to our own operations. We've identified several issues in recent times that need attention, and I'm committed to addressing them before the current council term concludes.
Our schedule currently includes one formal council meeting monthly, supplemented by a series of briefings. Since 14 December 2019, councils have been mandated to broadcast meetings online as per the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 and the Model Code of Meeting Practice for Local Councils in NSW.
I'm proud to note that our livestreaming have been ongoing since February 2020, and despite occasional technical glitches, the community feedback has been generally positive.
We've evaluated our audio-visual infrastructure in line with our commitment to enhance the Council Chamber. We're planning substantial improvements to elevate the quality and accessibility of our public meetings, fostering a more engaging meeting experience for residents. Due to the project's scale, the anticipated upgrade is scheduled for later in the year.
Webcasting of council meetings was a transformative practice that played a crucial role in enhancing democratic engagement and bolstering public trust in local governance. Through live streaming sessions, the council demonstrates its unwavering commitment to transparency and establishes a new standard of accountability for councillors, executive staff, and other attendees.
This approach ensures that the actions, behaviour, and comments made during meetings withstand public scrutiny and adhere to the highest standards of integrity. Furthermore, the availability of meetings for later viewing significantly aids in maintaining accurate minutes and records, which is paramount for historical documentation and accountability.
Webcasting and recording council meetings liberate the democratic process from physical constraints, enabling broader participation by allowing community members to witness and engage with their local government in action regardless of their location or schedule constraints.
In doing so, it directly counters misinformation by providing an unfiltered and reliable record of proceedings.
The imperative for transparency and intelligibility in council decision-making cannot be overstated. The exhaustive and technical nature of council reports could be daunting, sometimes even for the councillors themselves. For this reason, we have established briefings wherein council staff distil complex details into presentations, and sometimes experts are brought in to clarify the finer points.
The briefing process is necessary to ensure that councillors are thoroughly versed in all aspects relevant to their decisions. However, it raises a compelling question: why should this level of clarity and insight be exclusive to council members?
Our residents, who entrust us with the responsibility of making decisions, deserve the same level of accessibility to the information that informs these decisions. It is untenable to present our residents with convoluted reports while reserving the clarification of these issues for closed sessions.
We must bridge the gap between council deliberations and public comprehension.
Our established webcasting and recording capabilities present a prime opportunity to extend the transparency and accountability inherent in our council meetings to our briefing sessions. This initiative would not only subject the briefings to the same level of public scrutiny as the meetings themselves, thereby upholding integrity, but it would also significantly lower the barrier to understanding, reducing the 'information cost' borne by the public.
Section 10A of the Local Government Act, which prescribes confidentiality for some issues during council meetings, or other determination of confidential matters which may arise from time to time, can be appropriately extended to these briefings, safeguarding sensitive information while not detracting from the overarching goal of transparency.
In light of these considerations and to foster a thorough and open debate, I have refrained from using my mayoral minutes to institute this change. Instead, I have tabled a Notice of Motion for discussion. I am confident that the council will reach a resolution that underscores our commitment to an informed and engaged community.
Countering Misinformation
Misinformation is a term applied to information that, upon presentation, is believed or claimed to be true but later is found to be false or misleading. It does not accurately represent the actual state of affairs and can be particularly maleficent when it affects public understanding of critical issues or impacts the outcome of elections. Misinformation can arise unintentionally due to errors or misinterpretations or be disseminated deliberately as part of disinformation campaigns.
In the governance context, spreading misinformation can erode trust in public institutions, hinder effective decision-making, and cause division within the community. This is why mechanisms such as webcasting and thorough documentation of council meetings, and hopefully briefings, are not simply beneficial, but essential.
They serve as an antidote to misinformation by providing direct, unfiltered access to source material and discussions, allowing the public to form opinions and make judgments based on factual and verified information.
Addressing misinformation effectively requires a commitment to transparency, promoting media literacy, and proactive communication strategies that ensure the public has easy access to accurate, timely, and relevant information.
Council must constantly combat any misinformation that could erode public trust in our institutions, especially during election campaigns, when some candidates may spread misinformation to gain election favour.
Unlike federal or state governments, local councils often operate with more limited resources and a less prominent public platform, making addressing misinformation more complex. The scarcity of resources does not absolve us of our duty. On the contrary, it demands a more intelligent and strategic approach to ensure the truth prevails.
The integrity of our democratic institutions relies heavily on the accuracy and fairness of information disseminated to the public, particularly during elections. The council must take a firm stance against any misinformation propagation, whether from current or aspiring councillors. Such actions, designed to deceive the public and undermine the trust in our institutions, cannot and will not be tolerated.
I have asked General Manager to ensure that Campbelltown City Council exercises constant vigilance and implements a comprehensive and unequivocal strategy to combat misinformation. We shall explore, without exception, all appropriate and legal avenues to combat the spread of misinformation. This includes but is not limited to, reporting any potential misconduct to the relevant authorities and considering legal ramifications where necessary.
We will not hesitate to correct the record publicly when falsehoods are identified. Furthermore, we will actively promote transparency and accessibility to information, bolstering our communication efforts to prevent misinformation from taking root.
Date: 26 March 2024
Recommendation: That the information be noted.
On Saturday 2 March, we welcomed more than 200 guests to Ottimo House for my annual Charity Gala event, where $41,677 was raised in support of Humanity Matters’ Feet on the Street program.
This is a fantastic outcome that will help Humanity Matters to extend their outreach services to highly marginalised young people across Campbelltown. As Campbelltown continues to grow and move forward, it’s important that we think about the young people who are the future of our city. There are more than 34,000 people aged between 10 and 25 who live in Campbelltown, almost 20 per cent of our population.
Humanity Matters work directly with young people who may be struggling with their mental health or who are disconnected from mainstream opportunities, providing them with pathways into education, employment and other services.
I would like to thank our fantastic sponsors Campbelltown Mall, Menangle Park by Dahua Group, Cameron Brae Group, Marsdens Law Group and Saxon Developments for their support of this years’ event.
I would also like to thank everyone who came along and enjoyed a fun night for an important cause. A great evening was had by all and the generosity of the Campbelltown community was once again on display, making a real difference to the lives of young people across our city.
Date: 9 April 2024
Recommendation:
Last month, I spoke about the profound importance of the significant religious observances in the rich tapestry of traditions that exist in the Campbelltown community.
This month's continuation of the religious celebrations is also a time of deep reflection, spirited celebration, and collective contemplation for others. Each celebration honours different beliefs in a chorus of cultural harmony.
This includes the Jewish Passover, also known as Pesach, which is paramount in the Jewish liturgical calendar. Passover is the inaugural and most consequential Jewish pilgrimage festival. The Passover recognises and remembers the Hebrews' Exodus from Egypt and their transition from bondage to freedom, a pivotal saga in the Jewish historical narrative.
Through this annual event, the Jewish people reaffirm their connection to ancestral heritage, unifying community members to celebrate their story of deliverance. The significance of Passover extends beyond its historical roots; it is a time for reflection on themes of liberty, justice, and human dignity, values that resonate universally and hold enduring relevance.
This month also includes the Orthodox Christian community's Easter celebration.
The primary disparity in the celebration dates is the method of calculation which uses two differing ecclesiastical calendars. The Catholic Church adheres to the Gregorian calendar, introduced by Pope Gregory XIII in 1582, while the Orthodox Church, in line with their deep commitment to traditions, continues to abide by the older Julian calendar for its liturgical observances.
Orthodox Christians also observe fasting for 40 days before Easter. It commences on Clean Monday and concludes on the Friday before Palm Sunday. The Orthodox tradition of fasting embodies a discipline that extends beyond mere abstinence from certain foods to encompass an act of faith and humility before God. It is not merely a physical exercise but a spiritual endeavour that involves the entire human person—body, soul, and spirit.
It is followed by Holy Week, which also entails fasting and represents a cornerstone of the spiritual practices within the tradition. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is still central to the Orthodox religion's beliefs about salvation and eternal life. It follows the Holy Week, which includes Good Friday (commemorating Jesus' crucifixion) and culminates in the joyous resurrection of Easter Sunday.
This month also sees the end of Ramadan. Which is marked by Eid al-Fitr, which translates as the "Festival of Breaking the Fast”, the precise timing of Eid al-Fitr is determined by the sighting of the new moon, which indicates the end of Ramadan and the beginning of the month of Shawwal.
Due to the Islamic calendar's lunar nature, the date of Eid al-Fitr varies each year when observed on the Gregorian calendar and can also vary geographically, depending on local moon sightings. Eid al-Fitr is an occasion characterised by communal prayers, festive meals, almsgiving (known as Zakat al-Fitr), and the exchange of social visits and gifts, particularly among families and friends.
To all who are in the season of celebration, I again extend heartfelt wishes on behalf of Campbelltown City Council. May this time be filled with peace, fellowship, and a profound sense of community. Whether with family or cherished friends, may your observances be filled with the spirit of harmony and the warmth of togetherness.
Date: 9 April 2024
Recommendation: That the information be noted.
In my previous discussion on Local Government Reform, I focused on the intricate challenges local governments face, especially the tension arising from their dual responsibilities. I explained how this tension drives the push for reforms in New South Wales, Australia.
I charted the typical course of Local Government Reform: it starts with State Government dissatisfaction, attracts media attention, and leads to an "independent" inquiry. The outcome is often a set of recommendations, usually calling for the merging of councils. This pattern has consistently led to fewer councils in NSW, with notable reductions in 2004 and 2013, despite resistance from local government circles.
I pointed out Local Governments' difficulties in balancing their roles as service providers and democratic bodies. This balance between achieving efficiency and upholding democratic values has always been a critical issue in the evolution of Local Government in NSW and continues to influence ongoing reforms.
While I tackle each problem as it arises, I aim to combine all these insights into one precise, all-encompassing Mayoral Minute in the future. In this Mayoral Minute, I want to deepen the discussion on this tension and add another piece to the puzzle of the expected reform agenda.
Administrative Reforms
Since addressing the impending Local Government Reforms, the Minister for Local Government, The Hon. Ron Hoenig, has indicated a commitment to substantial reform within the sector. In his responses to Portfolio Committee No. 8 - Customer Service, he articulated:
“I've got a unique time frame to do this whereby, consulting with my predecessor, there's a window of opportunity, whilst I'm in this portfolio and whilst I can get some bipartisan support, for me to achieve a significant reform in this sector that's probably a generation overdue.”
The Minister identified several administrative challenges that require urgent redress, including:
“a way in which to try to get this sector to move forward so it operates in a better, more lawful way so that people who are accused and engage in corrupt conduct, extreme behaviour or behaviour not becoming [of] elected representatives need to be dealt with reasonably quickly with clear laws—in the form of an Act or regulation— and procedures”.
Furthermore, he underscored the necessity to safeguard council staff from undue influence and misconduct beyond standard occupational health and safety measures, suggesting that:
“the staff of the council need to be protected beyond the occupational health and safety provisions. They need to be protected against coercion, pressure, corrupt conduct. So they need to be placed in a separate category to preserve their professionalism and not be wrapped up in a convoluted councillor behavioural framework.”
Most importantly, he has emphasised webcasting council briefings as a crucial reform, which I agreed with. As the Minister stated:
“Low fruit off the [reform] trees? Stop councils having private briefing sessions behind closed doors, which is contrary to some of the very recommendations of IPART. In other words, make sure that the material they get is transparent. Try and force sunlight into the operations of the council, which is not just a deterrent against corruption, but it also makes for good democratic decision-making”.
I want to thank all of my fellow Councillors who endorsed my motion in the recent Council Meeting to webcast Council briefings, propelling Campbelltown City Council to the forefront of transparency and accountability.
The Minister also indicated the deficiencies within the current code of conduct framework is only leading to an untenable complexity. He criticised the tendency “to fix it all by sticking it in the Model Code of Conduct… [resulting in] an encyclopaedia that nobody themselves knows or understands.” The convoluted nature of the code of conduct, extending to 61 pages, with an additional 51 pages dedicated to its procedures, starkly contrasts with the Legislative Council's succinct code of only 4.5 pages.
Resolving these issues and the additional concerns raised by the Minister in his testimony underscores the comprehensive reforms intended for the Local Government Act 1993. In agreement with the Minister, I maintain that a reform of this magnitude is not merely necessary but has been significantly delayed by a decade or more.
The Minister's commentary extends into democratic reforms, particularly those about elected representatives and the regulatory constraints that may hinder their capacities to undertake their democratic role. This is a welcomed conversation. I delved into this multifaceted issue several times, from the practical realities of the council to the abstract principles of political theory.
I will expand on this discussion of political representation, especially in the context of local Government Reform, as elected councillors’ democratic responsibilities and obligations warrant further consideration. However, I will first deal with the Councils' structure, which goes beyond the wards system and impacts democratic governance at multiple levels.
I will use the ward system investigated in this Business Paper to illustrate the issues.
Structure Democratic Reforms
One critical issue for consideration in a ward system, as dictated under the Act, is equitable representation. A core principle behind the portioning of political representation is to ensure that all community members have equitable access to their elected councillors and that these councillors can effectively represent their constituents' interests.
Determining ward boundaries and allocating councillors to each ward are critical components in manifesting democratic representation at the Local Government level. The analysis of the different options for ward structures must be predicated on the principle of "one vote, one value" and the imperative to reflect community interests and identities within the electoral framework.
The options presented — three wards with five councillors each, five wards with three councillors each, and three wards with three councillors each — represent distinct approaches to representation. The report utilised the NSW Electoral Commission's data and assumed full election participation.
However, in this argument, I am deploying the 2021 election results data to provide a pragmatic lens to evaluate the system's potential efficacy and representativeness. This approach allows for a robust analysis grounded in empirical evidence that is easily extended to all councils in NSW as their election result data is accessible on the NSW Electoral Commission website.
The 2021 Campbelltown City Council election results showed a voter turnout of 95,348 from a total of 112,968 registered voters within a single ward. The valid vote count stood at 89,337, resulting in a council election quota of 5,584 voters per councillor for each of the 15 councillors or, to use the report terminology, a Cr: Elector Ratio of 1:5,584.
The report's examination of the proposed ward structure scenarios reveals a critical a measurement of electoral design – the interplay between the quota per councillor and the geographic breadth from which this quota is derived. Two scenarios maintain proportionality regarding votes per councillor- three wards with five councillors each and five wards with three councillors each -while limiting the geographical area from which the quota is obtained to a third or fifth of the current area.
In these two scenarios, the quota per councillor remains the same. Among other arguments detailed in the reports, decreasing the geographical area simplifies the election process for candidates who do not have access to resources; however, it could also reduce the diversity of elected representatives as it forces the concentration of individual votes in these geographic areas.
A decrease in geographical area decreases the logistical and financial barriers confronting candidates, particularly those with limited resources. By delineating smaller wards, the electoral process could become more accessible, potentially increasing the breadth of candidates willing and able to participate. This may lead to a more vigorous contest of ideas and policies, fostering greater community engagement and political accountability.
Conversely, the argument that smaller geographic areas could decrease the diversity of elected representatives cannot be underestimated, especially as the council population is experiencing a significant increase in multiculturalism and resident diversity. The concentration of votes within these smaller wards might amplify the electoral influence of dominant demographic or socio-economic groups, thereby marginalising minority voices, which might have been more effectively aggregated in a one-ward system.
In the most recent electoral contest, Campbelltown City Council distinguished itself with an exceptionally high number of candidates, a testament to its dynamic political environment. Notably, a substantial proportion of these were independents, which is also indicative of a robust democratic engagement unfettered by party affiliations.
Implementing a ward system within the Campbelltown context must be considered cautiously. The risk of disenfranchising minority voices and amplifying the electoral influence of the dominant demographic cannot be understated. Such risks are magnified by the increased number of wards and minimised by maintaining a one-ward council. Therefore, contemplating a ward system for Campbelltown should be suspended until other more pressing democratic reforms are implemented.
The first option, three wards of three councillors, is the most interesting in the context of State Local Government Reforms. In this option, the quota of voters per councillor increases to 8,934, a 60% increase.
While that seems like a significant increase, it is on par with current voter per councillor rates in Fairfield (8,785) and Canterbury-Bankstown (8,825), slightly higher than Hornsby (7,090) but significantly lower than the City of Sydney (11,736), Blacktown City Council (9,208) and Liverpool City Council (9,135).
Considering the data for these six councils, it's clear that Campbelltown residents enjoy more representation, with six additional by comparison. Looking at State-wide efforts to reform Local Government democracy, it seems quite sensible for Campbelltown to consider reducing its number of councillors to nine.
This would bring Campbelltown's voter-per-councillor ratio in line with those of these other councils, striking a balance between effective governance and equitable representation without diminishing the democratic value provided to its residents.
However, when we compare our voter-per-councillor ratio to other councils in Sydney, the diversity is striking, and it becomes quite clear that Campbelltown residents are significantly underrepresented.
For example, Blue Mountain (3,053), Hawkesbury (3,038), Hunters Hill (1,030), Lane Cove (1,800), Mosman (2,314), and Willoughby (2,310). Considering the average voter-per-councillor ratio for these six councils, Campbelltown is entitled to 50 councillors. This is an impossible number of councillors under the Act and an impractical and arguably unworkable number of councillors for any council.
The figures used for the 12 councils in question are based on each councillor's average number of voters from the 2021 election. These figures don't consider the different numbers of voters in each ward, as the Act requires wards to be changed so that the number of voters isn't more than 10% different in any ward.
It doesn't matter if a council uses wards or not; any Local Government Reform should ensure that the number of voters for each councillor is about the same everywhere—from Campbelltown to Willoughby and from Fairfield to Hunters Hill.
It's challenging to discuss equitable representation and adhere to the rule that wards should only have a 10% difference in voter numbers when some places, like Blacktown, have nine times more voters for each councillor than Hunters Hill.
At the State level, the elector rules require the number of voters for each Member of Parliament to stay approximately equal over time and not vary by more than 10%. The Constitution Act 1902 ensures that each electoral district has roughly the same number of votes by redrawing electoral boundaries after every two State elections to ensure that every vote has the same value and that equitable representation, “one vote, one value,” is upheld.
The trend in Local Government Reforms is to decrease the number of councils. While council mergers have been controversial, every council referendum that has asked to reduce the number of councillors has been successful in recent years.
Surely, the “cultural, structural change that is needed to effectively make [local government] the genuine third tier of government that they are—the most important tier” must include equitable representation, the “one vote, one value” argument, and address the current disparities.
It is not an easy task, but it is undoubtedly a consideration worth pursuing.
Democratic Representatives
The Minister's commentary on democratic representation, particularly about elected representatives and the regulatory constraints that may hinder their capacities to undertake their democratic role, is also a welcome conversation.
The Minister pointed out that:
“there are provisions in this model code that are inconsistent with the implied freedoms of political communication that have been determined by the High Court. There are attempts in the code to silence democratically elected councillors by telling them that they can't say something that might bring the council into disrepute, which is effectively trying to muzzle democratically elected people, who can't say what the general public can say”.
Even though the idea of political representation is commonly recognised, and much has been written about it with various definitions, it's still a complex topic that we won't fully explore here. However, I would like to discuss an essential argument within the broader topic: whether representatives should serve as delegates or trustees.
Understanding this argument will help us explore the Minister's argument for political communication in the context of the council's decision-making process.
Delegates are representatives who strictly follow what their voters want, whereas trustees use their judgment to decide the best course of action.
The report points out that in the context of the ward system, “councillors have an obligation to make decisions that are in the best interests of the community as a whole, not just the ward that elected them”. Councillors need to look out for their local constituents, but there's a danger they might concentrate too much on their ward. This could result in decisions that are not in the best interest of the entire LGA.
This potential drawback of the electoral system may cause councillors to pay too much attention to local matters and not enough to the broader issues that affect the whole LGA. By not following their voters' preferences, they risk losing power at the next election, as has previously happened in many elections, mostly due to anti-development community sentiment.
Such a risk could sometimes lead councillors to go with the general will to please their voters and secure their re-election at the cost of the common good.
Indeed, this concern extends to all levels of political representation, from Local Councils up to State and Federal Governments. Members of Parliament (MPs) might prioritise the needs of their electorates over more extensive reforms that could be advantageous for the entire State or Nation. Typically, the more power an MP has, the greater the chance that their electorate may gain benefits, potentially at the expense of broader interests.
James Madison (1787-1788) provided a seminal discourse on representative government as a delegation of citizens elected by the broader population. He acknowledged that "enlightened statesmen will not always be at the helm," thereby anticipating potential shortcomings in the trustee system. Madison suggested having a diverse and large population to decrease the problems of bad representation caused by factions and interest groups.
Based on Madison's argument and the risk of councillors to go with the general will against the greater good, increasing the voter-per-councillor ratio is beneficial to combat the undue impact of factions, interest groups and NIMBYism on council decision-making and enable a better social outcome.
Admittedly, the view of increasing the voter-per-councillor ratio is a view I explored as a solution to dealing with NIMBYism and interest groups in the context of the NSW Planning System.
In contrast, Edmund Burke (1790) famously argued the representative government is:
“not a congress of ambassadors from different and hostile interests, which interest each must maintain, as an agent and advocate, against other agents and advocates; but...is a deliberative assembly…, with one interest, that of the whole.”
This view somewhat goes against modern political discourse. Very few politicians are willing to go with the common good to the detriment of their own elector interests. Some political party mechanisms force the issue and guarantee cooperation with party positions, including preselection and position on the ticket.
As a result, some members of a major political party tend to follow the party line, even if that contradicts the general will or is worth the common good. I intend to discuss the impact of political parties on the decision-making process in future Mayoral Minutes.
Based on this argument, decreasing the voter-per-councillor ratio is the better option. It enables a more diverse group of representatives to deliberate issues with one common goal: the interest of the whole. Such diversity would enable better outcomes and greater good for the city as a whole.
Meadowcroft (2001) asserted that if the common good contradicts the general will, then representatives must act as the trustees of their constituents. Such action is a legal requirement for company directors.
The Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) and common law require directors to always act in the company's best interests, the best interests of shareholders as a whole, in the interests of any individual shareholder or group of shareholders. Sometimes, directors acting in the company's best interests may be acting contrary to the interests of some shareholders.
This is an acceptable and never contested concept. However, the current debate is about how the interests of other stakeholders (employees, customers, suppliers, Traditional Owners, and the environment) should also be considered.
Another guiding principle for directors is to consider the long-term view of the company’s interests. Moving the consideration beyond the current term and election cycle, which is something that is also implied for councillors under the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework.
I assume that the code of conduct provisions attempt to silence democratically elected councillors by telling them they can't say something that might bring the council into disrepute. I speculate that it is also a tradition based on the role of company directors.
Board directors must never discuss the board's business outside of the boardroom or after the meeting and should support the board's decision despite personal objections. Of course, there are ways to voice concerns.
Board decisions are made in confidence without public records and public divisions, in contrast to the council, which should webcast all its dealings, as I discussed last month.
Also, as I discussed last month, the point of bringing the council into disrepute, especially for political gain risks undermining public trust in the Local Government institutional framework, and unless the new system has mechanisms to deal with misinformation and disinformation effectively, the provisions while inefficient, are still important.
However, I firmly believe that councillors should and must speak about issues in public and justify their position on every decision. This would make it clear to the electorate whether they are acting as delegates or trustees and whether party politics influence them.
It is improbable that the current discussions or proposed changes will be resolved or implemented before the council elections.
As such, I will echo Mr Kontos' recent sentiments where he wrote; if we want to make the vote on September 14 count, the voters will need to be on the lookout for candidates who have a passion for their area and want to play a role in making it even better. This means not voting for the first name you recognise on the ballot paper but the one you know will improve your area.
Date: 14 May 2024
Recommendation: That the information be noted.
On the 12 April 2024, at the business lunch hosted in Campbelltown by the Ingleburn Business Chamber and Campbelltown Chamber of Commerce, I addressed the ongoing speculation regarding my political future.
I made a significant announcement, declaring that I will not be a candidate for re-election in the upcoming local government elections, which are set to take place on the 14 September 2024.
After sixteen enriching years as a Councillor and nearly 3 dynamic years as Mayor, this decision was not made lightly. This marks a pivotal moment in my life and career, symbolising an end and a new beginning. I am driven by a desire to explore new opportunities that contribute to the growth of our region and recognise the need to pass the baton to the next generation.
Throughout my tenure, I have had the privilege of working alongside a dedicated team of councillors and staff. I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who has supported me on this journey. I am especially thankful to all the Mayors, Councillors, General Managers, Directors, and Staff I have had the honour of serving with since my election in 2008.
Their collaboration, support, and hard work have been instrumental in our city’s achievements. I am deeply grateful for their contributions over the years, which have helped Campbelltown realise a collective vision and lay the foundation for a future that upholds our cherished values of community, inclusivity, and innovation.
I am particularly grateful to all the councillors who have allowed me to serve as the Mayor of Campbelltown. I am proud of how we have steered our beloved city through an era of proactive action, advocacy, and tangible achievements that will distinctly shape its vibrant landscape. I am confident that the foundations we have built together will continue to support the growth and aspirations of Campbelltown’s residents for many years to come.
I reserve a special acknowledgment for our General Manager, Lindy Deitz. Her patience, resilience and unwavering commitment, have been pivotal in bearing the weight of my boundless ambitions for our city. Our Deputy General Managers and Directors' dedication and willingness to embrace innovation and drive change have been instrumental to our shared successes. Our Strategic Partnerships Manager, Kate Stares, who supported me and has been instrumental in all of my accomplishments.
Their collective efforts have profoundly shaped our community's trajectory, paving the way for a brighter, more innovative future. It has been a privilege to work alongside such dedicated professionals.
My heartfelt thanks also go to my family—my wife, Michelle, and our children, James and Gabriella. I am immensely grateful for their steadfast support. Their sacrifices and love have been the cornerstone of my ability to serve our community. Their unwavering presence has illuminated my path throughout this journey of public service.
I am committed to continuing my role as mayor of this exemplary city, serving without bias or preference until the conclusion of my term. In the few months we have left together, I intend to reflect on our achievements, defining moments, and milestones.
Finally, I would also like to thank the Hon. Chris Minns, Premier of New South Wales, for acknowledging the efforts of my mayoralty and the MP, Mayors, Councillors, and the community at large for their well-wishes and kind words.
Date: 11 June 2024
Recommendation: That the information be noted.
I feel compelled to share my thoughts and gratitude for the warm welcome we received in Koshigaya.
Firstly, a heartfelt thank you to Mayor Fukuda, Chairperson Shimada, and Deputy Mayor Aoyama for their kind hospitality from our arrival to our departure. Their efforts in arranging such a comprehensive and diverse schedule provided us with numerous fantastic experiences and enabled us to discover their city in detail.
I also want to express my gratitude to Mr Kobayashi, President of the Koshigaya International Association, for joining us at many events.
It was a true honour to be in Koshigaya as part of our 40th-anniversary celebration of the Campbelltown-Koshigaya Sister City relationship. It was a delight to recently welcome the Mayor and Chairperson to Campbelltown and share our city with them, and indeed, they have extended the same hospitality to us in Koshigaya.
Face-to-face connections have been crucial in strengthening our relationship over the past 40 years. As Mayor of Campbelltown, it is a privilege to continue building on this foundation of mutual friendship and connection.
During their visit to Campbelltown, they would have seen the pride our Council and community have in this relationship. Through landmarks like Koshigaya Park and our Japanese Garden, we celebrate the spirit of Koshigaya and the significance of Japanese culture and history. These attractions are beloved by our residents, and as part of our 40th anniversary, we will enhance them even further.
During our visit, we also got to see the pride of the City Office and community of Koshigaya have in their relationship with us. It was a special honour to visit Campbelltown Park and plant a cherry blossom tree to signify our growing relationship. Like Koshigaya Park, this is a much-loved community space in the heart of Koshigaya, and contains many features that celebrate Campbelltown.
I was also fortunate to visit the Campbelltown Forest of Wild Birds and meet the passionate staff who share educational information with the students and residents of Koshigaya about Campbelltown, through the native Australian animals and plants that are the centrepiece of the facility.
Another highlight of our visit was the tour of the newly opened City Office building, where we were experienced the Council Chamber and visited a special exhibition celebrating 40 years of memories and gifts through a thoughtful public display.
We were also invited to visit the Australian Embassy in Tokyo, where the Deputy Head of Mission commended both cities for the strength of our relationship and the important contribution that connections such as ours make to the strong tourism, economic and trade relationship between Australia and Japan.
Over the past four decades, we have shared numerous exchange visits, including in education, business, culture, sport, and tourism. Our student delegation program, in particular, is a source of great pride. We have celebrated events, milestones, and opportunities and supported each other through challenging times, such as earthquakes, typhoons, floods, bushfires, and pandemics.
Our relationship has been built on a foundation of mutual understanding, goodwill, and genuine care and hospitality. Because of these important foundations, I am confident that the strong and enduring ties between our cities will continue to thrive well into the future.
The friendships we have gained and the opportunities our relationship has provided for our two cities are extraordinary. As one of the longest and most successful Sister City relationships in Australia, we are deeply committed to fostering this bond for years and generations to come.
I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to visit Koshigaya to celebrate this significant anniversary. I trust that this Sister City relationship will continue to flourish and endure long into the future.
Date: 11 June 2024
Recommendation: That the information be noted.
Last week, the Minns Government of New South Wales released new housing targets. These five-year targets, set for 43 Local Government Areas (LGAs) across Greater Sydney, Central Coast, Hunter, Greater Newcastle, Illawarra-Shoalhaven, and regional NSW, aim to support the National Housing Accord by delivering 377,000 new homes.
To encourage acceptance of this initiative, the NSW Government has announced a $200 million grant program. This program is designed to reward councils that successfully meet their housing targets and to fund the development of green spaces and the maintenance of local infrastructure.
There has been limited time for analysis, information is scarce, and there was no consultation with councils or communities. As I explained in my previous minutes, this top-down approach to planning is not necessarily negative, provided the government is held accountable for it in the next election.
Here is what we understand so far:
The government claims the new housing targets aim to address the imbalance of housing growth, previously concentrated in Western Sydney, by ensuring development occurs in areas with existing infrastructure. The targets will guide local governments and provide access to financial support, focusing on building 82% of new homes in infill areas and 18% in greenfield locations over the next five years.
The department's website states that the targets were determined using data on current housing projects, new planning reforms, environmental risks, development feasibility, and infrastructure capacity. The methodology includes planned and projected new homes and considers factors like market conditions and demand.
Regional Analysis
The previous Regional Housing Targets compared with these new target, adopting the information from each Council’s Local Housing Strategies are as follows:
- South Western Sydney (Liverpool, Fairfield, Cumberland, Canterbury-Bankstown, Camden, Wollondilly, Campbelltown):
- Old target (2021-2026): 50,436 homes
- New target (2025-2029): 61,000 homes
- North Western Sydney (The Hills, Hawkesbury, Blacktown, Penrith, Blue Mountains, Parramatta).
- Old target (2021-2026) is 67,714 homes
- New target (2025-2029) is 73,200 homes
- South Eastern Sydney (Waverly, Woollahra, Randwick, Sydney, Sutherland, Bayside, Georges River, Strathfield, Burwood, Canada Bay, Inner West):
- Old target is unclear
- New target is 66,800 homes
- North Eastern Sydney (Northern Beaches, Mosman, Willoughby, North Sydney, Hornsby, Ku-ring-gai, Lane Cove, Ryde, Hunters Hill):
- Old target is unclearNew target is 44,200 homes
Based on these numbers, Greater Western Sydney’s new target is 134,200 homes for the period 2025-2029, while Eastern Sydney’s new target is 66,800 homes. This means that Western Sydney is expected to deliver 57% of the 263,400 new dwellings target for metropolitan Sydney.
Campbelltown’s Target
Campbelltown's dwelling target has increased from 7,100 - 8,250 dwellings for 2021-2026 to 10,500 dwellings for 2025-2029. This represents an increase of 37%.
However, the time spans are not consecutive; they overlap. Therefore, considering the five-year span of 2021-2026 and the four-year span of 2025-2029, a more accurate calculation shows an annual target increase from 1,650 to 2,625 dwellings per year, a 59% increase.
This significant increase for Campbelltown, and potentially for Western Sydney if similar calculations apply, raises concerns.
The methodology should include considerations for current infrastructure backlogs, train service overcapacity, lack of connection to Bradfield and Western Sydney Airport, overreliance on cars, lack of employment opportunities, justice infrastructure deficits, and water capacity issues. Understanding how these factors were considered is vital for assessing the feasibility and impact of the new targets.
The current infrastructure in Campbelltown already has significant backlogs. Increasing housing targets without addressing these backlogs will exacerbate existing problems. Without clear government support, the increased housing targets will never achieve their growth potential.
Increasing the housing targets without parallel growth in local employment opportunities could lead to higher unemployment rates and economic strain on the community. We must have a solution to the employment deficit locally and a direct connection to Bradfield and the new Western Sydney Airport.
Our public transportation, especially train services, is already over capacity, and our area heavily relies on private vehicles. With the increase in housing, more residents will rely on these services, leading to further congestion and decreased quality of service.
Water supply and infrastructure capacity are critical concerns. With the increased housing targets, without an urgent upgrade to ensure adequate water supply, waste water treatment capacity and other infrastructure to support the new population, we cannot achieve these targets.
Without significant improvements in local employment numbers, public transportation, alternative commuting options, and road networks, traffic congestion and environmental impacts will be devastating.
The claim that 82% of housing targets will come from infill areas and 18% from greenfield locations needs clarification, especially for Campbelltown and Greater Western Sydney. Understanding how this ratio was determined and its implications on local development is crucial.
Campbelltown is not one of the lucky few “priority” development areas like Homebush, Hornsby, Bankstown, Kellyville, Bella Vista, the Bays in Rozelle, Crows Nest and Macquarie Park, that the government has committed to support with $520 million worth of infrastructure.
Council has recently committed significant funding to reviewing our existing Local Environment Plan (LEP), which is currently underway. If these targets are based upon capacity under our existing controls, is an LEP amendment required at all? Our Local Housing Strategy has been sitting unapproved with the Department for over a year, and may now require reconsideration, together with our Local Strategic Planning Statement. Clarifying whether current plans need to be revised or if new strategies will be implemented is necessary for local planning efforts.
There are many more questions that we need answered. I will continue to seek answers and keep Councillors and the community updated on any clarifications received from the department and government. Ensuring that the methodology and planning for these targets are transparent and comprehensive is essential for the sustainable growth of Campbelltown.
Date: 9 July 2024
Recommendation: That the information be noted.
This month, I had the opportunity to open a Business Western Sydney lunch, welcoming the Treasurer of New South Wales, the Hon Daniel Mookhey MLC, to Campbelltown. While the lunch focused on discussing the NSW budget announced earlier that week, I took the liberty afforded to me as the Mayor to raise some of our region’s concerns and to advocate fervently for Campbelltown.
The Treasurer made history as the first politician in Australia to take an oath of office on the Gita, reflecting his Indian heritage. I shared with him a verse from this text that resonates with me, especially now as I am exiting politics and reflecting on my achievements. It is Chapter 2, Verse 47:
"You have a right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions. Never consider yourself the cause of the results of your activities, nor be attached to inaction."
This verse is particularly comforting in advocacy work. Over the last two and a half years, we have tirelessly brought Campbelltown and Macarthur’s issues to the forefront of governments at all levels.
In my speech, I did not directly comment on the budget but emphasised the importance of the budget for our city and regional planning. This sentiment was best captured by the influential Australian historian and urban planner Hugh Stretton in his 1970 book Ideas for Australian Cities:
"Metropolitan planning must one day be integrated as the land use and communications branch of central economic planning. The 'chief planner' will have to be the Premier. The chief 'planning document' will have to be his budget."
Over the last year, I have actively engaged with the chief planner and supported many of his planning policies. I have taken this opportunity to extend the same support to the Treasurer.
Macarthur Region
I highlighted that Western Sydney, according to the latest budget, consists of 13 local government areas and 2.73 million residents—an astonishing third of NSW’s population, larger than Adelaide, Hobart, Darwin, and Canberra combined. With growth rates faster than those four capital cities, it’s crucial to discuss Macarthur as a distinct region and community, rather than just a part of Western Sydney.
I would like to acknowledge my fellow Macarthur Mayors, Ashleigh Cagney and Matt Gould, and thank them for their dedication and commitment to our region. I wish them both the best in the upcoming election.
In Macarthur, we are a strong community doing its fair share. According to the latest housing targets, the Macarthur region is expected to support almost 20%of the population growth in Western Sydney and around 10%of all metropolitan Sydney housing growth within the next five years. This is on top of having a current population bigger than Darwin and Hobart and being the fastest-growing region in the country over the last five years.
As a region, we are happy to continue the growth, support housing diversity, and support government initiatives to deal with the current housing crisis. But we must ensure we look after our current and future residents and deliver the lifestyle they deserve. As local government, we have been working collectively to share insights, align our goals, and advocate together on cross-boundary issues.
Whether it’s the Billabong Parklands in Campbelltown, the Nepean River Trail in Camden, or the Performing Arts Centre in Wollondilly, these regional facilities will enhance the lives of our residents. But we need support, funding, and transport. Our connection to each other, to the new airport, and the rest of Sydney is mostly car dependent. We have over 110,000 cars on our roads due to the lack of public transport. We need water and sewerage infrastructure to support housing supply and ensure we can meet, or even exceed, the government’s housing targets.
We need jobs and economic opportunities to ensure our growth is not only in dormant suburbs but in vibrant, sustainable, and prosperous communities. We continue to work with other agencies to achieve these goals.
Advocacy
Advocacy has been a central focus during this term of Council. In my speech, I used a powerful quote from the Treasurer's inaugural speech to describe our advocacy efforts:
“It is akin to a quest, a hard quest, with defeat, followed by setback, followed by regeneration, some reflection and—at least for the persistent—the chance of triumph.”
I assured him, and I assure you now, that we have been persistent and will continue to be. Since starting my tenure as Mayor, I have sent 551 letters and had 106 meetings with Ministers, Shadow Ministers, and MPs from State and Federal governments advocating for Campbelltown and the Macarthur region.
This is in addition to appearing before parliamentary inquiries, speaking at public events and forums, and speaking about issues in the media through interviews and op-eds to raise awareness and publicly advocate for solutions. Additionally, I have taken part in campaigns with mayors from across Sydney when they benefited our community.
These advocacy efforts are for several reasons. Firstly, like the Treasurer, I too want our “people to be free, to have choice, to be in charge, to experience control and to feel secure,” and this can never happen without investment in public transport, infrastructure, jobs, and economic opportunities.
Our advocacy discussions around range of topics, including social and physical infrastructure, access to essential services, planning matters, and the Campbelltown Community and Justice Precinct.
We have been successful on some issues and are yet to achieve success on others. Some of our early and most important successes in securing capital investment grants, as reported in my March 2023 Mayoral Minutes, added up to approximately $410 million in committed funding from the NSW Government. This includes $26.615 million of WestInvest grant funding, now renamed Western Sydney Infrastructure Grant Program, through the Council Allocation, and $145.6 million through the WestInvest Competitive Round.
While the NSW government agency funding commitment was discontinued after the election and change of government, we have finalised the deeds of agreement for all the Council Allocation and the Competitive Round to a total of $172.2 million. We are completing the final concept design and due diligence before starting the delivery of the projects. It is also worth noting that the NSW government has allocated funding for some of our major projects in this year’s budget, indicating that we can start the work whenever we are ready.
We have also been awarded $8.6 million for road surface repairs, $5 million for enhancements to Bob Prenter Reserve, Macquarie Fields, $450,000 for library improvements, $772,000 for drainage upgrades at Eschol Park Sports Complex, $270,000 for drainage upgrades at Raby Sports Complex, $145,000 for field improvements at Jackson Park, $185,000 for Beverley Road pedestrian crossing safety improvements, $150,000 for safety enhancements to the pedestrian tunnel under Oxley Road, $250,000 for koala vehicle strike mitigation measures and various other smaller grants for community facilities, playspaces and projects.
More recently, we have received additional grants from the NSW government as part of the Get NSW Active program amounting to $1.358 million for construction of a raised pedestrian crossing on Willowdale Drive to enhance safety accessing Denham Court Public School, a design project for the upgrade of major intersections to provide a safe travelling network in Campbelltown CBD and an Active Transport Strategy to identify walking and cycling projects to be funded and delivered.
I am thankful for the time and support from everyone who has helped advocate for these projects, including our staff who dedicate significant time to such activities, including developing scoping studies, writing business cases, and making formal submissions when needed. This funding is in addition to operational funding grants that assist with events and enhance our community’s experience in our city, including programs such as Culture Up Late, library program subsidies, traffic route lighting subsidies and local studies digitisation, to name but a few.
Mr Greg Warren MP
I would also like to acknowledge the exceptional efforts and unwavering commitment of Mr. Greg Warren MP. His support for my advocacy efforts has been instrumental in facilitating numerous meetings with both current and former Ministers, ensuring that Campbelltown's needs and priorities are heard at the highest levels of government. Greg has been a strong and vocal advocate for our city, working diligently to secure resources and attention for our community's development.
Despite belonging to a different political party and our occasional disagreements on various issues, Greg has consistently demonstrated his dedication to the greater good of our city. He has put aside political differences to collaborate with me and our Council, always prioritising the wellbeing and progress of our community. His ability to rise above partisan divides and focus on common goals is truly commendable.
His efforts have not only supported our immediate initiatives but also laid the groundwork for long-term benefits. For his relentless dedication, collaborative spirit, and genuine care for our community, I owe him a profound sense of gratitude.
Community and Justice Precinct
Our advocacy and commitment to the Community and Justice Precinct underscore our dedication to fostering economic growth and addressing the judicial needs of our rapidly expanding region.
The Community and Justice Precinct is a cornerstone for job creation in our area, offering an array of high-value positions. This precinct will bring more judges, barristers, solicitors, supporting workers, and public sector jobs, alongside numerous industries essential to the day-to-day functioning of a justice precinct. The influx of these legal professionals will create a ripple effect, attracting secondary jobs such as those in coffee shops, retail, and restaurants, thereby enriching our local economy.
While we are immensely grateful for the significant funding received from the WestInvest program and other grants for our community infrastructure, our advocacy for the Community and Justice Precinct remains steadfast. We, together with the Australian and NSW governments have invested $2.2 million to develop a master plan for the precinct and have undertaken extensive community consultation to ensure the plan responds to local needs. In collaboration with government bodies, we have finalised a strategic business case for this essential development. The urgency of this project cannot be overstated.
We will continue to advocate for and work with the government to achieve this dream. Our efforts are all aimed at one goal: to ensure that our region is for everyone. If we do not get the answer we hope for, we will not despair. In the true spirit of perseverance that the Treasurer has taught us:
“When politics results in the wrong choices, the right response is not to blame the system; the right response is to organize for a better result next time.”
Thank You
Finally, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Treasurer of New South Wales for receiving my speech in the spirit it was intended. His kind words about me and my tenure as Mayor deeply touched me. His support and recognition of our shared efforts had a profound impact on the event.
I will continue to work for Campbelltown regardless of my future position and I am confident that the next council will persist in our efforts for a better future. However, our work is not done yet.
I look forward to continuing our collaboration and making a positive impact on our community. I still have a few months left, and I will keep going till the last minute.
Date: 9 July 2024
Recommendation: That the information be noted.
I have previously spoken about the importance of countering misinformation, especially during election season. In the context of governance, spreading misinformation can erode trust in public institutions, hinder effective decision-making, and cause division within the community.
Misinformation refers to information that is initially believed or claimed to be true but is later found to be false or misleading. More damaging is disinformation—deliberately false information spread with the intent to deceive or manipulate public opinion.
To effectively counter misinformation and disinformation, it is essential to engage with the community and provide clear, accurate, and timely information to counter false narratives. We have worked tirelessly to ensure such provisions through various opportunities like these Mayoral Minutes, media releases, and increased transparency and reporting on all our dealings, including council briefings that we have proposed be webcast starting on the next occasion.
I would like to thank the Minister for his letter of support for this initiative.
As we enter the election season, Council receives several complaints about the election process, including the misuse of information, the positioning of posters, or false claims. Council should not and will not be the assessor of such claims. In our meeting, Council resolved to contract the NSW Electoral Commission to run this election at a cost of approximately $905,000 to the ratepayers.
We expect the Commission to undertake their role diligently, moderating and mediating all issues related to the election. Any issue received by Council will be forwarded immediately to the Commission, regardless of who the complainant is or who the complaint is against.
That is not to say that we should not be striving for a dynamic debate with our residents on the issues that will impact them, their families, their community, and their council.
Elections serve as crucial opportunities to inform and educate people about their local government area and provide a platform for residents to learn about the policies, platforms, and performance of various candidates and political parties. Additionally, elections can highlight key issues and foster public debate, contributing to more engaged and knowledgeable decision-makers and voters.
Public debates are a great platform to focus the information, dispel misinformation and disinformation, create engagement in the political process, and boost public interest. They also create transparency and accountability as candidates are forced to clarify and defend their positions on various issues, allowing the voters to hold them accountable. Most importantly, they allow voters to make informed decisions about who they believe will best represent their interests and address their concerns.
To foster such opportunities, I have proposed that the Council, in collaboration with the Southwest Voice, will sponsor two voluntary council debates in the week before the election. The debate format, questions, and moderation will be handled by Eric Kontos, who we all agree possesses the skills and experience required to undertake such a task impartially. The council will only provide the logistics.
Eric has kindly donated his time to moderate these two debates and the role of advertising and receiving and handling the questions. I hope that you can all join me in thanking Eric and the Southwest Voice for being an active part in informing our community, not only in these debates but over the last 10 years.
As we get closer to the date, Eric will announce details and the format. In line with our commitment to transparency, we will explore how we may webcast and record these events.
I hope that all the teams in the upcoming election take these opportunities to engage and inform our residents of their policies and views.
Date: 13 August 2024
Recommendation: That the information be noted.
This is not my last Mayoral Minute. Next week we intend to hold an Extraordinary Meeting of Council to celebrate the achievements of this Council, offer my gratitude to my fellow Councillors, wish those who are contesting the election the best of luck, and those who are not a thank you on behalf of Campbelltown. I will share a detailed last Mayoral Minute then, including a thank you to our residents and stakeholders.
Today I would like to offer a reflection.
As I reflect on the last two and a half years, we have worked tirelessly to bring Campbelltown and Macarthur’s issues to the forefront of governments of all levels and persuasions. This approach has been central to our journey, but it certainly hasn’t been a smooth ride. As the Treasurer of New South Wales, the Hon Daniel Mookhey MLC, described in his Inaugural Speech when he spoke about his early career:
“It is akin to a quest, a hard quest, with defeat, followed by setback, followed by regeneration, some reflection and—at least for the persistent—the chance of triumph.”
Persistent we have been, and persistent we should continue to be. In the time I have been Mayor, I have sent 635 letters and had 111 meetings with Ministers, Shadow Ministers, and MPs from the State and Federal governments advocating for a better future for our city and our region.
I paid little attention to partisan politics and willingly worked with anyone and supported any policy that benefitted our city while rejecting anyone or anything that disadvantaged it, regardless of their political affiliation. I have been unashamedly biased. I had one job: to work for the people of Campbelltown, and one area to focus on: the Macarthur region.
In continuing the Treasurer's reflection, I may share a verse from his holy text, the Bhagavad Gita, that resonates with me, especially now as I am exiting politics; It is Chapter 2, Verse 47:
"You have a right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions. Never consider yourself the cause of the results of your activities, nor be attached to inaction."
We have relentlessly championed the causes that matter most to our residents. Our efforts have seen new projects planned, healthcare services expanded, and infrastructure development initiated that will benefit our city for generations to come.
The investments we received will allow us to develop pedestrian-friendly spaces, expand public arts, rejuvenate community infrastructure, and enhance urban liveability. These projects, which will be delivered in the coming years, will not only enhance our city's future but also foster a more vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive community.
However, amidst our successes, we must also acknowledge the battles still to be won. Our fight for improved public transport connectivity, particularly the long-awaited railway extension from Glenfield to Western Sydney International Airport and the airport to Campbelltown-Macarthur, is only in the business case funding stage, and we are yet to see a funding commitment. In the interim, prior to delivery of the rail, we have advocated for a rapid bus network to connect our community to the new airport, however, we have only received enhancements to our local bus network. Our Justice Precinct is yet to be progressed by the Government to the next stage, but we have completed the Master Plan and delivery framework and invested significant funds to support its delivery.
As the Hon John Howard said when he was Prime Minister of Australia in 2004:
“Politics is a long game… Politics is always a marathon and not a sprint.”
We have made our case through detailed proposals, parliamentary inquiry submissions and appearances, and persistent advocacy. While progress has been slow, our resolve remains firm. I am sure that these projects will be delivered—they must be delivered for the benefit of our community. We must keep fighting for our community's needs and desires, ensuring they are front and centre of government, regardless of who is elected to this council or who is in the state and federal government, regardless of the delays or the rejection. As Galatians 6:9 (NKJV) says:
"And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart."
According to the latest housing targets, the Macarthur region is expected to support almost 20 percent of the population growth in Western Sydney and around 10 percent of all metropolitan Sydney housing growth within the next five years. This is on top of having a current population bigger than Darwin and Hobart and being the fastest-growing region in the country over the last five years.
As a region, we are happy to continue the growth. We are happy to do our fair share to deliver housing diversity, and we are happy to support government initiatives to deal with the current housing crisis.
But we need support. We need funding. We need transport. We need water and sewerage infrastructure to support housing supply and ensure that we can deliver, or even exceed, the government’s housing targets. We need jobs and economic opportunities to ensure our growth is not only in dormant suburbs but in vibrant, sustainable, and prosperous communities.
We need to make sure we are looking after our current and future residents. We must continue to work with other agencies to achieve these goals. We must keep advocating to governments of all levels and persuasions.
As we stand at the crossroads of history and future planning, it is not only Campbelltown that is changing, but all of Sydney. We must look back to understand and learn from our mistakes and look forward to innovate and build a better future.
Charles Dickens, in 1859, opened his timeless novel, A Tale of Two Cities, with these profound words:
“We had everything before us, we had nothing before us, we were all going direct to Heaven, we were all going direct the other way—in short, the period was so far like the present period.”
These words resonate deeply when we reflect on the urban evolution of Sydney. A city that has been shaped by the tireless efforts of those who came before us. Their dedication laid the groundwork for the vibrant, diverse community we enjoy today. Reflecting on their legacy, we recognise the importance of learning from the past. The challenges we faced, the obstacles we overcame, and the victories we celebrated all serve as valuable lessons.
Around the time Dickens wrote these lines, the renowned British economist William Stanley Jevons visited Sydney and noticed that the city exhibited stark urban segregation. Although Sydney’s segregation was not as severe as that of English cities, it was significant enough to warrant investigation.
Jevons conducted a population survey and developed a unique social class map of Sydney, vividly illustrating the urban divide. He classified residents into three classes and shaded the map accordingly: red for first-class residences, blue for second-class, and black for third-class. An interesting choice of colours, but it was the 1800s.
Jevons observed that suburbs on elevated grounds and areas with significant open spaces housed a high concentration of first-class residences. The second-class residents were more dispersed, mostly inhabiting built-up areas close to the city centre. Meanwhile, the third-class residents occupied the lowest, most densely packed, and least accessible parts of town.
Amid this urban disparity, foreign capital played a crucial role. British investors funded public utilities such as railways, which in turn spurred urban residential development. The rapid expansion of the public transport network and the establishment of new suburbs enabled the aspiring middle class, and even the higher-paid lower class, to escape the dense city and realise the suburban dream.
Although the term "Australian dream" was not formalised until the post-war era, early observers like Richard Twopeny vividly described its nascent form in the late 19th century. By the turn of the 20th century, suburban life had become an unmistakable symbol of social status, success, and security.
Sydney’s urban history demonstrates a complex interplay between density and sprawl—a pattern that mirrors the present period. Over the years, the city's growth patterns have been shaped by the tension between these forces. Higher density areas have often emerged around major public transport hubs, promoting efficient land use and accessibility. Meanwhile, suburban sprawl has spread outward, driven by the quest for more space and lifestyle, necessitating an expansion of road networks and infrastructure.
Our city’s history has been recreating itself in an interesting cycle, shifting west with each boom and bust. While I would love to delve into this narrative and highlight the active role of local government, time constraints compel me to be brief.
Innovation is key to our future success. As we embrace new technologies and ideas, we must remain committed to sustainable development and smart urban planning. This includes investing in green infrastructure, enhancing public transportation, and creating more liveable spaces for our residents. By prioritising these initiatives, we can ensure that Campbelltown remains competitive, resilient, and inclusive.
We must continue to advocate for social equity. Ensuring that all residents have access to quality education, healthcare, and economic opportunities is essential. We must continue to advocate for our infrastructure, ensuring that our backlog is addressed, and all residents have good connections to the rest of Western Sydney, Greater Sydney, and the new airport. Only by addressing these disparities can we create a more just and equitable society where everyone has the chance to thrive, because this time, it is unlikely that foreign capital will come to our rescue, rather the mistakes will be paid for by unborn generations of taxpayers.
As we move forward, let us remain steadfast in our commitment to progress, unity, and resilience. By working together, we can overcome any challenge and achieve our shared vision for a brighter, better future. Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our community. Let us embrace the opportunities ahead with confidence and determination, knowing that our best days are yet to come.
In the true spirit of perseverance that the Treasurer has spoken about, I will end with his quote:
“When politics results in the wrong choices, the right response is not to blame the system; the right response is to organise for a better result next time.”