Agenda of Governance Committee Meeting

Governance Committee Meeting

9 July 2024

Infrastructure and Planning Committee Report

ITEM 01

Reform of Council's Contributions Planning Framework

Strategic Objective	Visionary, Leading, Responsible Position Council as an industry leader that plans and delivers services for a growing city
File Ref	175188.2024
Report By	Claire Scott - Coordinator Contributions Planning
Approved By	Lina Kakish - Director Planning & Compliance

Executive Summary

This Report is to inform Council on a proposed program to transform Council’s Contributions Planning Framework that applies to lands within the Liverpool Local Government Area (LGA).

Under existing conditions, Council’s Contributions Planning Framework comprises six (6) “in force” Contributions Plans that apply to development proposals across the LGA. Analysis has shown however that a portion of the existing Framework no longer aligns with Council’s infrastructure priorities.

Furthermore, the development yields and/or trends that informed the Plans at the time of their preparation are either no longer applicable or have shifted to such an extent that the contributions being collected are not sufficient to deliver the identified Plan initiatives. In combination, this is placing financial and asset delivery risks onto Council, and reputational risk to our growing communities.

To address this issue, City Planning will commence work on a program to transform Council’s Contributions Planning Framework to ensure consistency with industry best practice, effectively meets the infrastructure and services needs of our growing communities, and provides the financial stability required to fund the essential infrastructure and services.

RECOMMENDATION

That the Governance Committee meeting

1. Receives and notes this Report.

2. Notes the phased approach to the transformation program of Council’s Contributions Planning Framework, with the initial phase (Phase 1) focusing on the review and reform of the Liverpool Contributions Plan 2009, Liverpool Contributions Plan 2018 – Established Areas, and Liverpool Contributions Plan 2018 – Liverpool City Centre.

3. Receives quarterly updates on the progress of the program to transform Council’s Contributions Planning Framework.

REPORT

Background

Liverpool City Council has applied developer contributions since 1992, with the first Contributions Plans focused on individual catchment areas such as Green Valley / Hinchinbrook, Casula East, Casula West, Cecil Hills, and Wattle Grove.

Developer contributions are charged by Council when new development occurs. Once collected, contributions help fund essential infrastructure like parks, community facilities, local roads, footpaths, stormwater drainage and traffic management.

As growth accelerated across the LGA, former Plans were consolidated, and new Plans created to effectively manage the provision of infrastructure necessitated by new development proposals.

Under existing conditions, Council currently has six (6) “in force” Contributions Plans that apply to development proposals across the LGA. However, previous repealed Plans (shown in italics below) may still be in operation via Development Application Consent Conditions. Rates collected under repealed Plans are allocated against initiatives in the current Contribution Plans, as incomplete works were carried forward into these Plans.

· Liverpool Contributions Plan 2008 – Edmondson Park

· Liverpool Contributions Plan 2009

o Former Liverpool Contributions Plan 2001

§ Former multiple – ‘Plan 1 – 12’

§ Rural areas

· Liverpool Contributions Plan 2014 – East Leppington

o Soon to be repealed and replaced by the IPART-reviewed Liverpool Contributions Plan 2021 – East Leppington

· Liverpool Contributions Plan 2018 – Liverpool City Centre

o Former Liverpool City Centre 2007

o Former Liverpool City Centre 2001

· Liverpool Contributions Plan 2018 – Established Areas

o Former Plan 10 – Established Areas

o Former Plan 11 – City-wide Infrastructure

· Liverpool Contributions Plan 2021 – Austral and Leppington North

o Liverpool Contributions Plan 2014 – Austral and Leppington North

Council does however have an additional draft Contributions Plan (s7.12) for the Aerotropolis Precinct that is currently awaiting approval from the NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces. Being a Section 7.12 Plan, the Plan is considered an interim plan to allow preliminary development to occur within the Aerotropolis Precinct.

It is acknowledged by both Council and the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) that upon Ministerial approval of the draft Aerotropolis (s7.12) Contributions Plan, work will need to commence on the preparation of a corresponding Section 7.11 Contributions Plan for the Aerotropolis Precinct.

Section 7.11 Contributions v Section 7.12 Contributions

Local infrastructure contributions can be collected via two distinct funding pathways – Section 7.11 contributions and Section 7.12 contributions. Detail on the differences between these two funding pathways is provided in Table 1.

Table 1 – Differences between Section 7.11 and Section 7.12 contributions

Section 7.11 Contributions

Section 7.12 Contributions

Charged where there is a clear nexus between the development proposal and the infrastructure to be funded.

Councils prepare Section 7.11 Contributions Plans that clearly articulates what infrastructure will be provided and approximately how much it will cost. This is used to calculate a contribution rate, usually charged per dwelling or per square metre.

Importantly, Councils that want to charge a contribution rate above the threshold set by the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces must submit their Plans to the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) for an independent review.

Upon completion of the independent review, the IPART subsequently forwards their recommendations to the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces for consideration and approval. Upon Ministerial approval, Council must amend the draft Section 7.11 Contributions Plan in line with the Ministerial approval and seek Council endorsement to make the changes operational.

Once submitted to the IPART for review, IPART-reviewed Section 7.11 Contributions Plans typically take 18-24 months to enact.

Section 7.11 was previously known as Section 94.

Charged as a percentage of the estimated cost of the development proposal. The maximum percentage that can be charged in most areas is 1%.

To seek a higher rate above the 1% threshold, Councils must submit their Section 7.12 Contributions Plans to the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces for a review. If supported and approved by the Minister, Council must amend the draft Section 7.12 Contributions Plan in line with the Ministerial approval and seek Council endorsement to make the changes operational.

Section 7.12 was previously known as section 94A.

Case for Contributions Planning Framework Reform

City Planning commissioned a desktop audit of Council’s current Contributions Planning Framework to ascertain the suitability of Framework to effectively fund, and support delivery of, essential infrastructure and services associated with ongoing development growth across the LGA.

In essence, the audit identified that a signification portion of Council’s current Contributions Planning Framework is considered outdated in so far that they no longer align to current strategies, policies and environmental plans.

Furthermore, development yields and/or trends that informed the Plans at the time of preparation are either no longer applicable or have shifted to such an extent that the contributions being collected are not sufficient to deliver the identified Plan initiatives.

Specifically, the audit highlighted that:

· Council’s Growth Areas are currently facing a significant shortfall in financing the listed land and works program;

· Contributions Plans for the Liverpool City Centre and Established Areas include items that no longer align to the development of the area or vision of Council and the community; and

· Items under the Section 7.12 Contributions Plans are severely underestimated in their costs, making it difficult to achieve their delivery.

In combination, this is placing financial and asset delivery risks onto Council, and reputational risk to our growing communities.

Next Steps

It is proposed to adopt a phased approach for the transformation program, with the initial focus (Phase 1) being on the review and reform of the Liverpool Contributions Plan 2009, Liverpool Contributions Plan 2018 – Established Areas, and Liverpool Contributions Plan 2018 – Liverpool City Centre.

Subsequent phases of the program will focus on the:

· Consolidation of the soon-to-be endorsed Liverpool Contributions Plan 2021 – East Leppington, the Liverpool Contributions Plan 2021 – Austral and Leppington North and the Liverpool Contributions Plan 2008 – Edmondson Park into a single Section 7.11 Contributions Plan; and

· Preparation of a corresponding Section 7.11 Contributions Plan for the Aerotropolis Precinct.

Phase 1 of the transformation program is anticipated to take up to two (2) years to complete. Timelines may be shortened however if corresponding reviews by the IPART and the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces are expedited.

Under this proposal, at the conclusion of the transformation program Council would potentially have six (6) or seven (7) Contributions Plans in operation across the LGA. As a ‘Growth’ Council with fragmented rural lands, this is a favorable outcome when compared with the our following neighbouring LGAs:

· Blacktown City Council – 16 Contributions Plans, as well as VPA’s for urban release / growth areas;

· Penrith City Council – 13 Contributions Plans, 2 draft Section 7.11 Contributions Plans with IPART and 1 draft Section 7.12 Contributions Plan with the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces; and

· Camden Council – Five (5) Contributions Plans (one Plan covers three growth precincts (South West Growth SEPP) and noting that Camden has single precinct ownership (VPA’s for urban release / growth areas).

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

To ensure the success of the transformation program, Council must allocate the necessary resourcing as a priority. Apart from financial resourcing, Contributions Plans require extensive strategic planning input to support and justify the need and demand for infrastructure, especially if the Plans are to be subject to IPART and Ministerial reviews.

Internal resourcing of Phase 1 of the program is expected to be fully funded from existing contributions levies applied under existing Section 7.11 Contributions Plans in operation (i.e. administration levy).

The engagement of Consultants to support gaps in the strategic planning analysis underpinning the transformation program will be funded from City Planning ‘Consultancies’ funds in Council’s 2024/25 OPEX budget.

Should additional funding be required, a further Report will be prepared and referred to Council for consideration at a future Ordinary Meeting of Council.

CONSIDERATIONS

Economic	Further develop a commercial centre that accommodates a variety of employment opportunities. Deliver and maintain a range of transport related infrastructure such as footpaths, bus shelters and bikeways. Provide efficient parking for the City Centre.
Environment	Manage the environmental health of waterways. Protect, enhance and maintain areas of endangered ecological communities and high-quality bushland as part of an attractive mix of land uses. Raise community awareness and support action in relation to environmental issues. Promote an integrated and user-friendly public transport service. Support the delivery of a range of transport options.
Social	Raise awareness in the community about the available services and facilities. Preserve and maintain heritage, both landscape and cultural as urban development takes place. Regulate for a mix of housing types that responds to different population groups such as young families and older people.
Civic Leadership	Provide information about Council’s services, roles and decision-making processes. Deliver services that are customer focused. Operate a well-developed governance system that demonstrates accountability, transparency and ethical conduct. Actively advocate for federal and state government support, funding and services.
Legislative	Environmental Planning and Assessment Act
Risk	The risk is deemed to be High. Contribution Plan caused by underfunded asset delivery resulting in significant funding shortfall in project delivery. The risk is considered outside Council’s risk appetite.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

Governance Committee Meeting

9 July 2024

Infrastructure and Planning Committee Report

ITEM 02

Principal Planning Proposal to establish a new Liverpool Local Environmental Plan - Report Back on Investigation Findings

Strategic Objective	Evolving, Prosperous, Innovative Implement planning controls and best practice urban design to create high-quality, inclusive urban environments
File Ref	180128.2024
Report By	Luke Oste - Coordinator Strategic Planning
Approved By	Lina Kakish - Director Planning & Compliance

Executive Summary

At its Ordinary meeting of Council on 29 May 2024, Council resolved (PLAN 05) to endorse the Principal Planning Proposal to establish a new Liverpool Local Environmental Plan, subject to further amendments being made to the Planning Proposal package.

This report summarises the actions taken in response to the Council resolution, specifically points 7-13.

RECOMMENDATION

That the Governance Committee receives and notes this report.

REPORT

Background

At its Ordinary meeting on 29 May 2024, Council resolved to endorse the Principal Planning Proposal to establish a new Liverpool Local Environmental Plan, and to forward it to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) for a Gateway determination.

Further to the staff recommendation, an additional seven points were added by Council. This report summarises the actions taken in response to each of these additional resolution points.

7. Makes the following changes / amendments to the proposed Principal Planning Proposal before issuing to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure;

a) Council extend northern boundary to Memorial Avenue and southern boundary to Charles Street of Amendment 52 boundaries and further investigates additional sites within the city centre that are capable of developing within the controls set out in Amendment 52 of the Liverpool LEP 2008, including but not limited to larger sites that do not require amalgamation;

The locations referenced in the resolution are assumed to be the areas highlighted yellow in Figure 1. The Principal Planning Proposal will be updated to reflect this. However, it is worth noting that there are several risks associated with the extension of the bonus provisions under Clause 7.5A, as discussed below.

Figure 1: Additional Land Proposed for Inclusion in Area 8 (highlighted in yellow)

Amendment 52 to the Liverpool Local Environmental Plan 2008 aimed to incentivise mixed-use development in the Liverpool City Centre. A key part of Amendment 52 was the introduction of Clause 7.5A. Clause 7.5A provides development bonuses in Floor Space Ratio (FSR) and Height of Building (HOB) to certain areas (Area 8, 9 or 10) of the City Centre if the development site has two frontages and a minimum lot size of 1,500m². Other requirements under Clause 7.5A also apply to the proposed development itself to encourage mixed use developments.

As part of Amendment 52, characteristics such as ownership, subdivision, street patterns, and the role of the public domain were reviewed to establish character precincts. An urban form that responds to the character of each precinct was also developed, with different building typologies encouraged through a range of controls in Chapter 4 of the Liverpool Development Control Plan (DCP) 2008.

In late 2023, the Commercial Lands Investigations (Attachment 1) were undertaken by Mecone to inform the LEP Review. This work included an assessment of Amendment 52, and whether further boundary adjustments or changes to the clause were required. This involved a detailed assessment of lot sizes, development history and market factors.

The investigation found that in circumstances where a site is sufficiently sized and can be acquired at an economic price, Clause 7.5A incentives can make it more attractive to develop. Few sites in Area 8 (area adjacent to the Memorial Avenue & Charles Street block) however fell into this category, with numerous impediments to development identified for these locations (e.g. large portions of fine-grain subdivided land).

As a result, Mecone only recommended an additional section (between George Street and Goulburn Street) be included in Clause 7.5A (as part of Area 9), with no further inclusions recommended. These changes have been included in the Planning Proposal. Upon investigation, there are no further obvious locations to extend the Amendment 52 boundaries given distances to public transport, fragmented subdivision patterns, and the substantial quantity of land already covered by bonus provisions under Clause 7.5A.

· Memorial Avenue Extension – This area currently benefits from a HOB of 80m and FSR of 2.5:1. Clause 7.5A Area 8 provisions however will allow a development to exceed the specified HOB and implement a FSR of 10:1, representing a 300% increase in FSR. This will facilitate an abrupt transition down to development in the west along Castlereagh Street, which is characterised by a HOB of 35m and FSR of 2.15:1. This raises amenity concerns like overshadowing and privacy, as well as potential negative impacts on the heritage item located at 115 Castlereagh Street (Item No. 77).

· Charles Street Extension – Given the intent of Amendment 52, residential zoned land in the City Centre was excluded from the bonus provisions. The extension of Area 8 to Charles Street however will capture land zoned R4 High Density Residential (R4 zone) and does not align with the purpose of this amendment.

This is also reflected in Clause 7.5A(2) which requires 20% (proposed to be reduced to 15%) of a development to be used for a listed use in the clause (e.g. entertainment facilities, function centres, medical centres etc.). A number of these uses however are not permissible uses in the R4 zone and are inconsistent with the zone objectives.

In terms of uplift, the site is characterised by a 45m HOB and 2:1 FSR. The bonus will incentivise residential development of a scale that is out of character with existing / future development for the remainder of the R4 zoned land located to the west. Furthermore, a substantial increase in scale will have amenity implications given the current topography and resulting overshadowing impacts to the south-east.

These various issues will be assessed at the Gateway stage by DPHI and discussed further. There is a risk that these changes will either not be supported or require additional investigations to inform a robust justification.

b) Council rejects the rezoning of 300-324 Hume Highway, Liverpool and keep it zoned infrastructure and strongly encourage TfNSW to continue with that upgrade;

The Principal Planning Proposal will be updated to reflect this amendment. Since the Council meeting on 29 May, Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW) have written to Council (Attachment 2) requesting the amendment be reconsidered in light of the below concerns.

TfNSW have stated that the resolution is inconsistent with Section 9.1 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. Local Planning Direction 5.2 of the Ministerial Directions empower TfNSW to direct a Council to rezone land when it is not required for a public purpose. As TfNSW has formally submitted requests for this land to be rezoned, DPHI may still request for the rezoning of this sites to be progressed once a Gateway determination is issued.

Additionally, four of the identified properties are currently in private ownership. These include the following burdened sites:

- 310 Hume Highway (Lot 130 DP 597060)

- 312 Hume Highway (Lot 1 DP 1074663)

- 314 Hume Highway (Pt Lot 11 DP 2819)

- 316 Hume Highway (Pt Lot 10 DP 2819)

Some of the affected landowners have made requests to TfNSW for acquisition on the grounds of hardship. These have not been supported by TfNSW as the land is not required for infrastructure purposes and they have sought a Council rezoning from the current SP2 zone.

TfNSW have also noted the significant emphasis by State Government for the evaluation of surplus land portfolios held by public agencies to increase land available for housing. They have stated that the proposed parcels will help contribute to the delivery of housing.

c) 27 and 29 Grove Street, Casula, notes TfNSW’s communication that it is surplus land and keep the zone as is;

The Principal Planning Proposal will be updated to reflect this. As noted above however from the TfNSW correspondence (Attachment 2), DPHI may be unsupportive of this amendment as it is inconsistent with the relevant Ministerial Direction.

d) 39 Grove Street, Casula to be rezoned R2 as per the recommendation;

Whilst no further action is required, the TfNSW correspondence (Attachment 2) has noted Council’s address and ownership records are incorrect. Council records show the subject lot as No. 39 Grove Street and privately owned. TfNSW have advised the subject lot is known as No. 37 Grove Street and owned by TfNSW already.

A screenshot of a computer

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Figure 2: Address Details from SixMaps

8. Investigates options to encourage basements in the R2 and R3 zone, including basement parking up to the footprint of the house be excluded from the calculation of Floor Space Ratio (FSR) as part of a comprehensive review of the Liverpool Development Control Plan 2008, and any necessary changes to the LEP;

Controls to encourage the delivery of basements are best placed within the Liverpool Development Control Plan (DCP) 2008, where parking controls are located (similar to the approach taken by Sutherland Shire Council in their DCP). This investigation can therefore be managed through a future DCP review with no further changes required to the Principal Planning Proposal at this stage.

9. Investigate possible gateway sites (entrances to the LGA) to encourage key site development to be welcoming (including appearance uplift, signage, gardens, entrance uplift and density controls), including but not limited to the following locations:

- Elizabeth Drive from Flowerdale Road to the Hume Highway,

- Hume Highway from Casula (Crossroads),

- The Hume Highway at Warwick Farm, and

- Newbridge Road Moorebank.

As part of the Principal Planning Proposal, a Gateway Sites clause has already been proposed. The clause is intended to provide design requirements that facilitate high quality architecturally designed buildings at key entry / exit points to the LGA.

It is noted however that the clause is not intended to provide additional density to new developments. Most of the identified Gateway Sites are zoned for employment and located on main road corridors. An increase in density (particularly in the absence of supporting traffic and visual modelling) is likely to have unintended impacts.

A number of the Gateway Sites are located on flood prone land, where further density may be inappropriate. The widespread application of density bonuses to Gateway Sites will also undermine the overall Commercial, Industrial and Residential Land Principles which informed the Planning Proposal. These Principles were endorsed by Council to ensure a consistent approach be applied to rezoning land across the LGA, whereby uplift corresponds directly with infrastructure and service provision.

In any case, it is noted that some Gateway Sites benefit from density uplift arising from other changes proposed under the Principal Planning Proposal, or separate site-specific planning proposals (e.g. Holsworthy Town Centre Planning Proposal).

In response to the other matters raised (e.g. signage, appearance / entrance uplift, gardens) it is noted that the clause is already proposed to include the following design considerations for a development:

- Enhance and reinforce gateway sites;

- Contribute positively to the public domain;

- Show a high standard of architectural design;

- Demonstrate sustainable building design principles;

- Retain and enhance the natural environment;

- Minimise the visual impact of parking;

In relation to signage, signs relating to the identification of the Liverpool LGA are separate to signage (e.g. business identification signage) which would be proposed on these sites. As such, it is not a consideration in the proposed clause. Signage for the identification of the LGA can be further explored by Council Operations or City Design and Public Domain team.

As part of the Principal Planning Proposal, a comprehensive review of all LGA entry points / visually prominent locations was undertaken, and a total of nine Gateway Sites were selected.

Three of the locations (Hume Hwy, Casula, Hume Hwy Warwick Farm & Newbridge Rd, Moorebank) identified in the resolution have already been captured as Gateway Sites in the Planning Proposal (see Figure 3 below)

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Figure 3: Snippet from Principal Planning Proposal Table of Gateway Sites

The remaining nominated location of ‘Elizabeth Drive from Flowerdale Road to Hume Highway’ is shown in Figure 5 below. Land zoned E3 Productivity Support (E3) near Flowerdale Road is primarily small sites with fragmented ownership and limited development potential. The E1 zoned lot at the corner of Park Road includes a service station and is proposed to be rezoned to E3 to reflect this established use. Both locations are of an insufficient size for significant redevelopment, have limited amenity and back onto land either zoned R3 Medium Density Residential or R2 Low Density Residential.

Figure 4: Land Use Zoning Map showing Elizabeth Drive

Moreover, due to Findley Park and the topography of Elizabeth Drive, the entry into the LGA from this road already benefits from an excellent vista of the Liverpool City Centre, which functions as a natural gateway. A gateway in the form of development envisioned under the Gateway Sites clause is therefore not considered warranted in this location.

A road with trees on the side

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Figure 5: Elizabeth Drive adjacent to Findley Park at LGA boundary with Fairfield City Council

10. Requests the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure finalises Landcom’s Mod 5 application to support the delivery of additional housing supply in the Liverpool LGA;

A letter addressed to the Department has been prepared at the drafting of this report and will be issued shortly.

11. Supports the NSW Government’s Diverse and Well-Located Housing reforms and writes to the Department to be applied to the area around Edmondson Park Train Station and as part of that letter also explores application to access the $200mil fund into improving green spaces and sporting facilities;

A letter to the Department has been prepared at the drafting of this report, which addresses this matter as well as point 16 and will be issued shortly. It is noted however that further details (i.e. criteria and application form) about the $200 million dollars of financial incentives will not be able until the second half of 2024.

12. Initiate community consultation to inform the community of the progress and proposed changes of the LEP so that they are briefed pre-gateway determination; and

A webpage within the Liverpool City Council website has been established, which answers frequently asked questions in relation to the LEP and provides a status update of the project. A LEP mailing list can also be subscribed to through the website for more frequent updates and links to resources. Currently there are approximately 90 registered subscribers at this stage.

13. Urgently write to State Government informing Council’s response to their housing targets and the increase dwelling capacity that this LEP will provide and encourage its timely approval through gateway as well as the other planning proposals in the system.

A letter to the Department has been prepared at the drafting of this report, which addresses this matter as well as point 11 and will be issued shortly.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no financial implications relating to this recommendation.

CONSIDERATIONS

Economic	Further develop a commercial centre that accommodates a variety of employment opportunities. Facilitate economic development.
Environment	There are no environmental considerations.
Social	Preserve and maintain heritage, both landscape and cultural as urban development takes place.
Civic Leadership	There are no civic leadership and governance considerations.
Legislative	Division 3.2 and 3.4 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.
Risk	The risk is deemed to be Low. Council’s rejection of TfNSW rezoning request presents an inconsistency with Local Planning Direction 5.2 of the Ministerial Directions for a planning proposal. There is a risk that this change will not be supported by DPHI at Gateway given this inconsistency. The adjustment to Amendment 52 boundaries is not considered to be consistent with the intent and approach used for this Planning Proposal and lacks technical justification. There is a risk that these changes will either not be supported or require additional investigations to inform a robust justification. The risk is considered within Council’s risk appetite.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Mecone Commercial Lands Investigation

2. Transport for NSW Correspondence Dated 14 June 2024

Governance Committee Meeting

9 July 2024

Infrastructure and Planning Committee Report

ITEM 03

Development Assessment

Strategic Objective	Liveable, Sustainable, Resilient Deliver effective and efficient planning and high-quality design to provide best outcomes for a growing city
File Ref	211514.2024
Report By	William Attard - Manager Development Assessment
Approved By	Lina Kakish - Director Planning & Compliance

Executive Summary

This report is prepared to table a snapshot of key Development Assessment (DA) statistics.

RECOMMENDATION

That Governance Committee:

1. Receives and notes the Development Assessment report.

2. Delegates future Development Assessment reports to be tabled as a Councillor Update, noting the Governance Committee Meeting lead in times, and that the data for the report can only be run at the start of the new month.

REPORT

The following key Development Assessment (DA) statistics are provided:

Development Applications and Class 1 Appeals

Period of Development Assessment Statistics (June 2024)
Outstanding DAs and Appeals – 31 May 2024	245 DAs / 38 Appeals
Outstanding Referrals – 31 May 2024	187 Referrals
Planning Application Numbers (PANs) – June 2024
- PANs Received	155 PANs
- PANs Lodged / Returned	42 / 74 PANs
Referrals Issued / Completed – June 2024	276 / 258 Referrals
Development Applications (DAs) – June 2024
- DAs Approved	59 DAs
- DAs Refused	17 DAs
- DAs Withdrawn	3 DAs

Class 1 Appeals (Appeals) – June 2024
- Appeals Lodged - Deemed Refusal / Council Determination	2 / 0 Appeals
- Appeals Upheld - s34 Agreement / Hearing	1 / 0 Appeals
- Appeals Dismissed / Terminated	0 / 0 Appeals
- Appeals Withdrawn	0 Appeals
Outstanding DAs and Appeals – 30 June 2024	200 DAs / 35 Appeals
Outstanding Referrals – 30 June 2024	180 Referrals

Development Application (DA) Determination Statistics (June 2024)
DAs Approved	59 DAs
- Total Capital Investment Value (CIV) ($)	$72M CIV
- New Lots Approved	154 Lots
- New Homes Approved	77 Homes
- Contribution Fees Raised ($)	$7.9M Contributions
DA Fees Released from Trust ($) – All Determinations	$368k Fees
Average Determination Timeframe
- Current Financial Year – FY23/24	231 Days
- Month Including / Excluding Stop the Clock – June 2024	180 / 179 Days

Development Assessment (DA) Team Vacancy (Technical Officers Only)

Position	Positions	Vacancy
Principal Planner	1	0
Senior DA Planners	8	1 (Under Recruitment)
Senior Planning Advisory Officers	3	1 (Under Recruitment)
DA Planners	17	0
Student Planners	4	1 (To Start 8 July 2024)
Duty Officers	2	0

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no financial implications relating to this recommendation.

CONSIDERATIONS

Economic	There are no economic and financial considerations.
Environment	There are no environmental and sustainability considerations.
Social	There are no social and cultural considerations.
Civic Leadership	Undertake communication practices with the community and stakeholders across a range of media. Provide information about Council’s services, roles and decision making processes.
Legislative	There are no legislative considerations relating to this report.
Risk	There is no risk associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

Governance Committee Meeting

9 July 2024

Strategic Priorities Committee Report

ITEM 04

Grants Donations and Sponsorship Program Delivery 2023-2024 FY

Strategic Objective	Healthy, Inclusive, Engaging Promote a harmonious community that celebrates its diversity
File Ref	193511.2024
Report By	Javeria Hoda - Community Development Worker Funding & Support
Approved By	Tina Bono - Director Community & Lifestyle

Executive Summary

Council is committed to building strong and resilient communities in the Liverpool Local Government Area (LGA) and maximising social wellbeing. Council’s Grants Donations and Community Sponsorship program helps achieve these goals by providing financial support to local community groups and not for profit organisations to develop leadership skills, increase participation in community activities and address identified social issues. with financial contributions to deliver projects that benefit residents, build, or enhance the reputation of Liverpool City Council and support delivery of local priorities as outlined in Council’s Community Strategic Plan.

This report provides a summary of the Grants Donations and Sponsorship Program in relation to the 2023-2024 allocated budget of $477,000, along with programs highlighting effective partnerships with local organisations and community groups.

RECOMMENDATION

That the Governance Committee notes the successful delivery of the Grants Donations and Community Sponsorship Program and appropriate utilisation of the allocated budget (FY 2023 - 2024).

REPORT

Background

Each year, Council allocates a budget of $477,000 towards the Grants Donations and Community Sponsorship program. Over the past 12 months, Council’s Grants program has been fully exhausted (with the exclusion of the Sustainable Environment Grant).

The following table highlights the budget break-down in terms of funds allocated to each grant program:

Grant Program	Budget Allocation per FY
Sustainable Environment Grant	$75,000
Community Grant (includes several sub-programs) Kick Starter Grant Small Grants International Women’s Day Grant International Day for People with Disability Grant NAIDOC Awards Grant Harmony Day Grant Liverpool Young Achiever Awards	$102,000
Community Sponsorship	$100,000
Matching Grant	$200,000
Total	$477,000

The following table highlights a list of all programs and organisations funded through the Grants Donations and Community Sponsorship program in FY 2023 – 2024.

Sustainable Environment Grant

Organisation	Program Title	Amount Funded
Kemps Creek Public School	Waste Warriors & Gardeners	$5,000
Holy Spirit Catholic Primary School, Carnes Hill	Living in Harmony with Our Environment at Holy Spirit: Cultivating a Thriving Vegetable Garden	$5,000
Sabian Mandaean Association of Australia	Sustainable Community Empowerment Initiative	$5,000
Prestons Public school	School community garden	$5,000
Thomas Hassall Anglican College	Waste Reduction	$5,000
Newbridge Heights Public School Parents and Citizens Association	Newbridge Heights - Bush Tucker Garden	$5,000
Wattle Grove Public School	Our Backyard	$5,000
Good Samaritan Catholic College	Think Global Eat Local Program Extension	$5,000
St Francis Catholic College	Sustainable Herb & Veg Garden	$3,337
Scouts Australia NSW Branch	Girl Scouts Waste Management Project	$5,000

Community Grants

Organisation	Program Title	Amount Funded
STARTTS Service for the Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture and Trauma Survivors	Arabic Women's Wellbeing Circle	$4,896
Melkite Catholic Welfare Association	Stepping On Program for the Elderly	$5,000
Womens Hope Community Association Inc	Women in the Path of Confidence and Passion	$1,000
Organisation Of Hindu Malayalees Inc NSW	PA System	$2,261
Grand Pacific Health headspace Liverpool	Speaking of Mental Health in Liverpool	$5,000
Ladies Like to Lunch Limited	The Wellness Centre - Meditation Classes	$5,000
The City of Liverpool & District Historical Society Inc	Heritage Collage Restoration	$5,000
Liverpool Women’s Health Centre	Women’s Health Week - Bloom	$1,000
Western Sydney Migrant Resource Centre	Liverpool Employment Expo	$5,000
BaytulHuda House of Guidance	Establishment Costs	$1,000
Global Women	Breast Cancer Awareness	$4,000
Holsworthy Community Group	Donation for Holsworthy Army Barracks Officer families (fatal helicopter accident)	$5,000
Miracle Babies Foundation	Miracle Babies Foundation National Conference	$1,000
Core Youth Services	Youth Outreach BBQ	$3,500
Non-Resident Nepali Association	Empowering Women’s Health and Safety Awareness program	$5,000
The City of Liverpool & Historical Society Inc	Collection Storage	$5,744
Liverpool Women’s Health Centre	Fijian Women's Group	$3,000
Nurture Nation Animal Sanctuary	Maremma Dog Program	$1,000
Liverpool Baptist Church	Sing & Grow	$1,000
Indian Senior Citizens Society	ISCS Program 2024	$5,000
Association for Community Development Inc	Ramadan Shopping Festival 2024	$5,000
Iraqi Australian University Graduate Forum Incorporated	International Women's Day-Accelerating Gender Equality through Economic Empowerment	$5,000
Himyana Social Services	Victory Handed Across Generations	$1,000
Playgroup NSW	Willy Wagtails Playgroup - Celebrating Mums	$250
Pacific Women Professional Business Network	Symposium Reflections Breakfast	$1,000
Liverpool Neighbourhood Connections	All welcome IWD	$1,000
Australian Arab Cultural Forum	International Women's Day- Heal & Paint	$1,000
BaytulHuda The House of Guidance Inc	We Are Empowered!	$1,000
Holsworthy Girl Guides	Holsworthy Girl Guides IWD Come and Try	$1,000
The Shepherd Centre - for deaf children	IWD Kidscape: A celebration of mothers of children with hearing loss	$963
Liverpool City Robins Football club	IWD Ladies Training Event	$1,000
Liverpool Women’s Health Centre	Coffee Cake & Connection IWD 2024	$1,000
Edmondson Park Malayalee Club Inc	From Empowered to Empowering: Creating Legacy	$1,000
Sydney Malayalee Association Inc	SydMal International Women’s Day – Ladies connect	$1,000
Liverpool Quota Inc	IWD Breakfast	$1,000
Odyssey House	IWD program	$1,000
Netball NSW	Harmony Day celebrations	$1,000
Australian Sickle Cell	Sickle Cell Awareness and Family Fun Day 2024	$5,000
Lifeline Macarthur	Lifeline Suicide Prevention Gala	$5,000
The Business Concierge LTD	Survivor Life Skills	$10,000
Meals on Wheels	Community Meal Compliance	$4,480
Play Matters Australia	Sing&Grow Community Partnership - Austral	$15,000
Kelli Hill (NOM)	ANZAC Day Mannequin Display 2024	$1,000
Australian Arab Cultural Forum	Story Writing & Art Comp	$5,000
A sound Life	Sound Mentoring Program	$15,000
Walking Football NSW	Introduction and Development of Walking Football/Soccer for Seniors, People with Disabilities or Socially withdrawn or Isolated	$1,000
Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute	Victor Chang School Science Awards – Liverpool Recognition	$1,000
Liverpool Genealogy Society Inc	Improved resource storage	$10,000

Community Sponsorship

Organisation	Program Title	Amount Funded
International Sports Karate Association	ISKA World Cup	$10,000
Southern Districts Soccer Football Association	2023 SDSFA Knockout Competition	$7,029
Macarthur Region Nepalese Community	Teej Festival 2023	$10,000
Australian Arab Cultural Forum	Internation Conference A dialogue between the Self and the Others	$10,000
Art of Living Foundation	Move Breathe Rest - Triathlon for Holistic Wellbeing	$10,000
Community Café	Community Kitchen Café Gala	$5,000
Multicultural Association of Asia & Pacific Incorporated	Fiji Day Australia	$4,072
Delta TV Incorporated	Musical Event	$6,000
Rotary Club Liverpool	Liverpool Police Officer of the Year Award	$1,000
Heroes with Ability	HWA schools’ gala day and 2023 IDPWD Inclusion Day	$10,000
Red Bull Australia	half-court basketball competition	$10,000
Road Safety Education Ltd	RYDA Road Safety Education for Vulnerable, High Risk Young Liverpool Driver	$5,000
Shree Sanatan Dharm Pratinidhi Sabha of Australia	Deepawali Mela / Diwali Festival	$10,000
Multicultural Festivals Australia Incorporated	Ramadan Eid Bazaar Festival	$10,000
Vedic Festival Incorporated	Festival of Chariots 2024	$10,000
Western Sydney Community Forum	ZEST Awards 2024	$10,000
Melkite Catholic Welfare Association	20th Celebration Community Day	$10,000
St Vincent de Paul Society NSW	Liverpool Uniting Church Community Hub Partnership	$10,000
Sydney School of Entrepreneurship Limited	Invest In Yourself - Exploring Money and Self-Employment Program	$9,300

Matching Grants

Organisation	Program Title	Amount Funded
Learning Links	Learning Links’ Aboriginal Education Program	$14,800
The City of Liverpool & Historical Society Inc	Compactus Storage Solution for heritage items	$5,744
Search Dogs Sydney	External learning facility	$15,000
Miracle Babies Foundation	Home & Beyond Booklet	$4,174
Preston Hornets Cricket Club	Whitlam Park Cricket Pitch Upgrade	$11,000
Play Matters Australia	Sing&Grow Community Partnership - Austral	$15,000
A Sound Life	Sound Mentoring Program	$15,000
Sumer International	Sound of Terra 2024	$11,300

2023 – 2024 Community Grants Donations and Sponsorship Program Highlights

· Programs that were successfully funded through Councils Grant program are required to address local priorities and identify needs in the local community. Over the past 12 months, community groups and not-for-profit organisations have identified the following needs, and as a result, delivered programs to address these gaps that evident in the Liverpool LGA:

o Youth wellness and wellbeing (physical and mental);

o Capacity building and skill development opportunities for young people and those living with a disability;

o Activities that reduce social isolation in seniors; and

o Support services and information exchange sessions for migrant and refugee women/CALD women.

· Several capacity building and skill development programs have had a significant impact on residents in the Liverpool LGA, specifically marginalised communities that are often excluded from support services. Council is particularly proud of the following partnerships and looking forward to collaborative opportunities and strengthen the overall wellbeing of local communities.

o Play Matters Australia; delivering evidence-based music therapy program Sing&Grow for young families in Austral. PMA have partnered with the Community Hub at Austral Public School to deliver the Sing&Grow program. The program is designed to aid transition to school for children entering kindergarten, as well as increase parent/carer knowledge of child development through a local partnership with Austral Community Hub;

o A Sound Life; the Sound Mentoring Program provides free music mentoring sessions to at-risk young people aged 12-25 with the mission of empowering them to achieve their potential as artists and as people. ASL works closely with Street University in Liverpool, delivering a range of capacity building programs with local young people. The project aims to engage at-risk youth with opportunities to access employment and/or further education and training through a curated mentoring program with professional development; and

o Sydney School of Entrepreneurship; SSE is working closely with Liverpool’s Domestic Violence Liaison Committee (DVLC) to address the financial vulnerability and lack of economic empowerment of women and girls in Liverpool area, especially those impacted by domestic violence. The Invest in Yourself program aims to help local female participants gain confidence and knowledge of money budgeting and management, uncover personal skills and strengths, and explore how to develop skills into a successful business.

· Council also noted an increase in applications for funding for celebrations that acknowledge Liverpool’s rich cultural diversity and encourage broader community participation. This includes cross cultural celebrations with vibrant displays of culture, culinary experiences, and entertainment such as Diwali festival, Ramadan celebrations and national day celebrations from a variety of CALD communities. Events delivered in the LGA are reflective of the diverse cultural thread of Liverpool, with grants distributed to the Fijian, South-East Asian, Arabic and Pacific and Islander communities. Through these events, Council has been able to achieve outcomes outlined in the Community Strategic Plan (CSP) around cultivating inclusive and engaging communities.

All recipients of Council grants in 2023 – 2024 will be invited to celebrate their achievement at the Celebrating Community Success event. To be held in August 2024, this event celebrates the success of Council’s Grants Program and highlights key activities and initiatives funded through this program.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Costs associated with this recommendation have been included in Council’s budget for the current year and long-term financial plan.

CONSIDERATIONS

Economic	There are no economic and financial considerations.
Environment	There are no environmental and sustainability considerations.
Social	Promote community harmony and address discrimination.
Civic Leadership	Encourage the community to engage in Council initiatives and actions. Operate a well-developed governance system that demonstrates accountability, transparency, and ethical conduct.
Legislative	There are no legislative considerations relating to this report.
Risk	There is no risk associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

Governance Committee Meeting

9 July 2024

Strategic Priorities Committee Report

ITEM 05

Reconciliation Action Plan 2024 - 2025

Strategic Objective	Healthy, Inclusive, Engaging Promote a harmonious community that celebrates its diversity
File Ref	195286.2024
Report By	Jacqueline Newsome - Coordinator Community Development
Approved By	Tina Bono - Director Community & Lifestyle

Executive Summary

The Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) outlines Council’s ongoing commitment to the advancement of First Nations people in Liverpool by sustainably and strategically taking meaningful action to advance reconciliation.

Based around the core pillars of relationships, respect and opportunities, RAPs provide tangible and substantive benefits for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, increasing economic equity and supporting First Nations self-determination.

As a first step in its formal reconciliation journey, Council developed a ‘Reflect’ RAP. Reflect RAPs are 12 months in duration and outline an organisation’s commitment to scoping and developing relationships with First Nations stakeholders, determining a vision for reconciliation, and exploring and expanding an organisation’s sphere of influence.

At a high level, the RAP delivers a range of actions covering immediate and long-term strategic directions for Council when working with First Nations communities. This includes a focus on ensuring First Nations perspectives and cultural sensitivities are observed in all areas of Council’s work.

The RAP supports Council to undertake a broader analysis of its current practices within the First Nations space and identify areas for growth. The goals incorporated in the RAP will be explored through the delivery of business and feasibility studies which will then form part of wider community engagement and reports back to the Council. This will enable a more detailed examination of the goals, providing Council with more information on costs associated with delivery, funding strategies and opportunities.

RECOMMENDATION

That the Governance Committee endorse the Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) August 2024 – August 2025.

REPORT

Background

This RAP represents the first time Council has officially sought endorsement of a RAP from Reconciliation Australia (RA). Previous plans and strategies focussing on supporting First Nations communities have not undergone this process and have therefore not been considered formal RAPs.

Strategic context

The RAP outlines a range of actions covering immediate and long-term strategic goals for Council when working with First Nations communities. This includes a focus on ensuring First Nations perspectives and cultural sensitivities are observed in all areas of Council’s work. In the same way the Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) outlines actions and strategies specifically designed to support people with disability, their families, and carers to engage more effectively with Council, the RAP provides high level actions and goals for First Nations communities. The RAP, alongside the DIAP, Community Development Strategy (currently in development) and other specific community plans and strategies form part of Council’s broader strategy for engagement with the community, including Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities, young people, seniors, and people with disability.

Council has already undertaken significant work in building its relationships with First Nations communities and organisations. In June 2023, Council signed an historic and innovative agreement with Gandangara Local Aboriginal Land Council (GLALC), the first of its kind between a local government agency and a LALC. This agreement formalised the partnership between the two organisations and was created to better manage and monitor collaboration. The agreement ensures that both organisations are treated and valued equally and work together to support and encourage the advancement of First Nations people in Liverpool. The goals outlined in the RAP build on this agreement and solidify Council’s commitment in this space.

Additionally, Council is currently reviewing the membership structure and delivery method of its Aboriginal Consultative Committee (ACC), to ensure it best reflects the communities’ goals and priorities in supporting First Nations people in Liverpool. This includes formalising the membership process and ensuring broader organisational representation amongst committee members from First Nations agencies in Liverpool, including all relevant LALCs. It is anticipated that this structure will enable Council to collaborate more effectively with First Nations agencies in Liverpool and deliver programs and initiatives which address the strategic goals outlined in the RAP.

Development and consultation

Liverpool’s draft RAP has been developed by Ngurra Advisory, a wholly First Nations-owned and operated consultancy group, in collaboration with Council’s Community Development team. Ngurra Advisory has extensive experience in developing RAPs and other First Nations strategies, working with various local and state government entities and private organisations on the creation of their own RAPs and other relevant strategies.

To inform the creation of this RAP, Council undertook extensive community consultation with relevant internal and external stakeholders, and the broader community. This included:

· RAP Discovery Workshop – a workshop with Council staff to scope and reflect on how Council can contribute to reconciliation;

· Staff and community consultations – feedback sought from local First Nations community members, organisations and staff to better understand Council’s reconciliation aspirations;

· Community art workshop – a collaborative workshop to engage and promote awareness of the RAP with the broader community;

· Cultural awareness training – a workshop building cultural capability amongst Council staff;

· Cultural immersion training – an art workshop with artists Dalmarri to create a collaborative artwork which has been digitised and used in the final design of the RAP document;

· Presentation to Council at the Strategic Projects Panel in November 2022;

· Reflect RAP staff and community validation – draft Reflect RAP documents reviewed by the Council, staff, key community stakeholders including members of the Aboriginal Consultative Committee (ACC) and the Gandangara and Tharawal Local Aboriginal Land Councils;

· Submission to Reconciliation Australia (RA) for review and endorsement in April 2023;

· Broader public exhibition inviting feedback from the local community in May 2023;

· Submission to Council for endorsement at the August 2023 Council meeting – at which point the RAP was deferred pending a presentation to the Governance Committee; and

· Presentation to Council at the Governance Committee meeting in October 2023.

At the request of Council at the October 2023 Governance Committee meeting, a further workshop was scheduled with representatives from Ngurra Advisory and relevant Council staff in February 2024. This workshop was designed to provide Councillors with a more in-depth understanding of the RAP process and the goals outlined within the plan. No Councillors attended this workshop. Two Councillors did offer apologies citing an inability to attend the scheduled time, one of whom provided feedback on the RAP via email.

Endorsement by Reconciliation Australia

Reconciliation Australia (RA) are an independent not-for profit organisation and the peak body for reconciliation in Australia. RA promotes and facilitates reconciliation by building relationships, respect and trust between the wider Australian community and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. RA oversees and manages the RAP program, supporting organisations to sustainably and strategically take meaningful action to advance reconciliation.

Based on recommendations from both Ngurra Advisory and RA; and noting that this is Council’s first formal RAP; Council developed a ‘Reflect’ RAP. Reflect RAPs are 12 months in duration and outline an organisation’s commitment to scoping and developing relationships with First Nations stakeholders, determining a vision for reconciliation, and exploring and expanding an organisation’s sphere of influence.

The draft RAP was presented to RA for conditional endorsement in May 2023 as part of the public exhibition process. Positive feedback was received from RA in June 2023 and formal endorsement of Council’s Reflect RAP was granted in August 2023. As significant time has passed since this was received, following Council’s endorsement, the RAP will again be submitted to RA for review and endorsement of the updated plan.

Following this, a launch will be held which promotes broader community awareness of the RAP and celebrates this important step in Council’s reconciliation journey.

Conclusion

Council have developed a Reflect RAP which outlines realistic and achievable goals for reconciliation and promotes its broader commitment to supporting the advancement of First Nations people in Liverpool. This Reflect RAP represents Council’s first steps on its formal RAP journey. It is envisaged that at the conclusion of this RAP in August 2025, Council staff will undertake a review of the achievements and actions included to determine next steps and support future reconciliation activities.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Costs associated with the actions contained in the RAP will need to be considered through the delivery of business and feasibility studies. This will enable a more detailed examination of the goals, providing Council with more information on costs associated with delivery, funding strategies and opportunities.

CONSIDERATIONS

Economic	Facilitate economic development.
Environment	Protect, enhance and maintain areas of endangered ecological communities and high quality bushland as part of an attractive mix of land uses. Raise community awareness and support action in relation to environmental issues.
Social	Provide cultural centres and activities for the enjoyment of the arts. Preserve and maintain heritage, both landscape and cultural as urban development takes place. Support community organisations, groups and volunteers to deliver coordinated services to the community. Promote community harmony and address discrimination.
Civic Leadership	Undertake communication practices with the community and stakeholders across a range of media. Foster neighbourhood pride and a sense of responsibility. Facilitate the development of community leaders. Encourage the community to engage in Council initiatives and actions. Provide information about Council’s services, roles and decision making processes. Operate a well-developed governance system that demonstrates accountability, transparency and ethical conduct.
Legislative	There are no legislative considerations relating to this report.
Risk	The risk is deemed to be Low. If Council were to not endorse the RAP, there is a risk of significant reputational damage for Council within the community. The risk is considered within Council’s risk appetite.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

Governance Committee Meeting

9 July 2024

Strategic Performance Committee Report

ITEM 06

Draft Complaints and Compliments Management Policy

Strategic Objective	Visionary, Leading, Responsible Demonstrate a high standard of transparency and accountability through a comprehensive governance framework
File Ref	196857.2024
Report By	David Day - Head of Governance
Approved By	Farooq Portelli - Director Corporate Support

Executive Summary

It is proposed to replace Council’s existing Customer Service and Communication Policy with a Customer Experience Policy and a Complaints and Compliments Management Policy. This report presents the Draft Complaints and Compliments Policy which sets out Council’s approach to dealing with customer complaints and compliments. The Committee is requested to recommend the Draft Policy to Council for public exhibition.

RECOMMENDATION

That the Governance Committee:

1. Considers and comments on the Draft Complaints and Compliments Management Policy

2. Agrees the Draft Complaints and Compliments Management should go forward to Council with a recommendation that:

(a) Council agrees the Draft Complaints and Compliments Management Policy be placed on public exhibition for a period of not less than 28 days.

(b) Council authorises the CEO to adopt the Draft Complaints and Compliments Management Policy if no representations are received during the period of public exhibition.

(c) Council agrees a further report be provided to Council if representations are received during the period of public exhibition.

(d) Council authorises the CEO or delegate to make minor changes to the Complaints and Compliments Management Policy.

REPORT

It is proposed that Council’s existing Customer Service and Communication Policy be amended so that focuses on Customer Experience, and that a dedicated Complaints and Compliments Management Policy is created.

Council’s Director Customer and Business Performance has prepared an amended Customer Service and Communication Policy under separate cover.

The Draft Complaints and Compliments Management Policy sets out how Council will respond to complaints and compliments from the community. It emphasises:

· a commitment to handling complaints and compliments well and using feedback to strengthen delivery of Council functions;

· treating people with courtesy and respect;

· making it easy for people to bring forward complaints; and

· responding reasonably.

The draft policy contains relevant definitions and sets out a clear, high-level process for managing complaints. The policy provides four complaint stages (three internal stages) with the emphasis on frontline resolution followed by escalation to the Director and then the CEO.

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The Policy also sets out a risk-based approach to dealing with unreasonable complainant behaviour. It gives guidance on different types of unreasonable behaviour and identifies ways in which this may be responded to. This may include imposing restrictions on how customers communicate with Council and considers the health and safety of our people.

Council’s Governance team will continue to support the complaints process. This includes investigating level 3 complaints for the CEO and preparing reports and analysis on complaints and compliments.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Complaints are dealt with by directorates within existing budgets and this is provided for in the long-term financial plan. Across all complaints, the Governance team is projected to spend $50,000 on external investigators in 2024/25 with an internal staff allocation of approximately $75,000.

CONSIDERATIONS

Economic	There are no economic and financial considerations.
Environment	There are no environmental and sustainability considerations.
Social	There are no social and cultural considerations.
Civic Leadership	Provide information about Council’s services, roles and decision making processes. Operate a well-developed governance system that demonstrates accountability, transparency and ethical conduct.
Legislative	Local Government Act 1993 Pursuant to section 23 of the Local Government Act 1993, Council may do all such things as are supplemental or incidental to, or consequential on, the exercise of its functions.
Risk	There is no risk associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Draft Complaints and Compliments Management Policy

0
ITEM 02	Principal Planning Proposal to establish a new Liverpool Local Environmental Plan - Report Back on Investigation Findings
Attachment 1	Mecone Commercial Lands Investigation

0
ITEM 02	Principal Planning Proposal to establish a new Liverpool Local Environmental Plan - Report Back on Investigation Findings
Attachment 2	Transport for NSW Correspondence Dated 14 June 2024