Agenda and
Business Paper

 

Ordinary Meeting of Council

 

 

 

To be held on
Monday 17 July 2023

at 6.00pm

 

 

 

Civic Centre cnr Baylis and Morrow Streets,
Wagga Wagga NSW 2650 (PO Box 20)
P 1300 292 442
P council@wagga.nsw.gov.au

wagga.nsw.gov.au

 

The proceedings of all Council meetings in open session, including all debate and addresses by the public, are recorded (audio visual) and livestreamed on Council’s website including for the purpose of facilitating community access to meetings and accuracy of the Minutes.

 

In addition to webcasting council meetings, audio recordings of confidential sessions of Ordinary Meetings of Council are also recorded, but do not form part of the webcast.

 

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ETHICAL OBLIGATIONS

Councillors are reminded of their Oath or Affirmation of Office made under Section 233A of the Local Government Act 1993 and their obligation under Council’s Code of Conduct to disclose and appropriately manage Conflicts of Interest.

 

QUORUM

The quorum for a meeting of the Council is a majority of the Councillors of the Council who hold office for the time being who are eligible to vote at the meeting.

 

Ordinary Meeting of Council AGENDA AND BUSINESS PAPER

Monday 17 July 2023

ORDER OF BUSINESS:

CLAUSE               PRECIS                                                                                       PAGE

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY                                                                          2

REFLECTION                                                                                                                2

APOLOGIES                                                                                                                 2

Confirmation of Minutes

CM-1           ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING - 26 JUNE 2023                                       2

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST                                                                                    2

Councillor Report

CR-1            DELEGATE REPORT - 2023 NATIONAL GENERAL ASSEMBLY - 13-16 JUNE 2023     3

Reports from Staff

RP-1            2022/23 WORKS IN PROGRESS AND BUDGET REVOTES                       10

RP-2            REQUESTS FOR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE - SECTION 356                    22

RP-3            2023/24 BUDGET VARIATIONS AND 30 JUNE 2023 INVESTMENT REPORT       26

RP-4            Annual Grants Program 2023/24 - Community Programs & Projects      38

RP-5            Annual Grants Program 2023/24 - Neighbourhood & Rural Villages     43

RP-6            Annual Grants Program 2023/24 - Rural Halls                         48

RP-7            Annual Grants Program 2023/24 - Arts, Culture & Creative Industries                                                                                                                52

RP-8            Annual Grants Program 2023/24 - Local Heritage                   58

RP-9            Annual Grants Program 2023/24 - Events                                    62

RP-10          Annual Grants Program 2023/24 - Environment                        66

RP-11          Annual Grants Program 2023/24 - Recreational & Community Facilities                                                                                                                70

RP-12          Annual Grants Program 2023/24 - Youth Programs & Projects     74

RP-13          Annual Grants Program 2023/24 - Small Business                    79

RP-14          APPLICATIONS FOR SUBSIDY FOR WASTE DISPOSAL FOR CHARITY ORGANISATIONS                                                                                    84

RP-15          DRAFT COMMUNITY NZE 2050 ROADMAP                                             87

RP-16          2023 NATIONAL LOCAL ROADS, TRANSPORT & INFRASTRUCTURE CONGRESS    121

RP-17          QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE                                                                    123

 

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

Wagga Wagga City Council acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land, the Wiradjuri people, and pays respect to Elders past, present and future and extends our respect to all First Nations Peoples in Wagga Wagga.

We recognise and respect their cultural heritage, beliefs and continuing connection with the land and rivers. We also recognise the resilience, strength and pride of the Wiradjuri and First Nations communities.

 

 

REFLECTION

Councillors, let us in silence reflect upon our responsibilities to the community which we represent, and to all future generations and faithfully, and impartially, carry out the functions, powers, authorities and discretions vested in us, to the best of our skill and judgement.

 

APOLOGIES

 

 

Confirmation of Minutes

CM-1              ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING - 26 JUNE 2023       

 

Recommendation That the Minutes of the proceedings of the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 26 June 2023 be confirmed as a true and accurate record.

 

 

 

1⇩.

Minutes - 26 June 2023 Ordinary Council Meeting

125

 

 

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 17 July 2023

CR-1

 

Councillor Report

CR-1              DELEGATE REPORT - 2023 NATIONAL GENERAL ASSEMBLY - 13-16 JUNE 2023

Author:         Councillors Dallas Tout and Dan Hayes

 

 

Recommendation That Council receive and note the report.

 

The Regional Forum was attended by the Mayor with the Delegate Report in relation to the National General Assembly being provided by the Mayor, Clr Dallas Tout and Clr Dan Hayes.

ALGA Conference

Regional Forum Tuesday, 13 June 2023

 

Linda Scott ALGA President

·    General introduction welcoming delegates to the Regional Forum and encouraging them to actively participate in the forum being held specifically for regional areas.

 

Kristy McBain – Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories

·    The Minister welcomed all delegates to the forum and, as a prior Mayor in a regional council, indicated her knowledge in the area and to be now in a Ministerial position in government assisted her in undertaking the role and other local government areas in having a Minister with lived experience

 

Darren Chester – Shadow Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories

·    The Shadow Minister commented in general about local government and the critical nature of the relationship between it and both state and federal levels of government

·    He was at pains to encourage delegates to support Minister McBain in the local government area. Commenting on his opinion as to her commitment to the sector and her advocacy on our behalf to government.

 

PANELS

 

Increasing Resilience to Natural Disasters

Crystal Fleming, Chief of Partnerships and Impact, Resilience NSW

Colin Wood, Manager Certification & Compliance, Shoalhaven City Council

Tracy Whitelaw, Chief Digital Officer, LGAQ

 

·    Work is being done in the Shoalhaven regarding Fortis House designs and the creation of bushfire resilient housing into the future.

·    The pilot use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in managing remote assets in the Carpentaria area. The use of AI and remote cameras in the identification and notification of flooded roads to Councils using only AI with no manual involvement.

 

Skills Shortages in Regional and Rural Australia

Susi Tegen, CEO, National Rural Health Alliance

David Williams, Former CEO, Planning Institute of Australia

 

·    Indicated that rural and remote represent 30% of population but 90% of the food on the table in the country.

·    Workforce shortage in rural and remote areas with particular focus on issues regarding pay, remoteness of locations and competing services across areas.

·    Working towards a multi-disciplinary solution to make do with what is available for the maximum benefit.

·    Specific mention made of the Wagga initiated planning scholarship program across the state.

·    44% of LGA’s across the country have no formally qualified planners.

·    Shortages are across all areas in local government and not just planning and strategic.

 

Our Regions, Our Future

Liz Ritchie, CEO, Regional Australia Institute

Mike Mrdak AO, Chair, National Alliance for Regionalisation

 

·    General discussion in relation to regions and the setting up of a National Alliance for Regionalisation.

·    There is still a critical need to continue to sell regions and the importance of regions across the country.

·    Interestingly 80% of GDP sits within 5 LGA’s across the country.

 

Connecting Our Communities

Loretta Willaton, Regional Australia Executive, Telstra

Mayor Tony Rayner, Longreach Regional Council

Mayor Suzette Beresford, Paroo Shire Council

Dr Tim Harrison, CEO, Ararat Rural City

 

·    Point was made that only 1/3 of the land mass of Australia has mobile coverage.

·    Telstra discussed the introduction of service via the release of Low Earth Orbit satellites and the capability of dramatically increasing mobile coverage across the country.

·    This will continue to address the critical need for more accessible IT infrastructure in rural and regional areas.

·    Ararat are investigating the use of IT for provision of CBD Wi-Fi, bin monitoring, flood monitoring and drain monitoring.

 

 

Investing in Our Regions

Clare Chapple 1^st Asst Secretary Dept Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, and the Arts

 

·    Work being undertaken on a regional investment framework.

·    The Growing regions Program to be open for applications from 5 July 2023

·    The release of a $400m fund across the country for Regional Precincts and partnerships Program.

·    Guidelines have been developed but no specific timeline on application opening dates.

 

ALGA Day 1 Wednesday, 14 June 2023

 

David Hurley - Governor General

·    Challenged councils to “connect dots between successes of councils” such as a “what works in local government” toolkit.

 

Catherine King - Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government

·    Financial Assistance Grants to be paid earlier for the next financial year.

·    Extended road program deadlines due to shortages.

·    Provided a general update on issues such as the NBN and road safety but no new announcements.

 

Linda Scott - ALGA president

·    Encourage councils to ensure they invite ministers and local members to projects that have utilised grants funding.

·    Current funding is 0.5% of tax revenue and ALGA continue to lobby 1%. Financial Assistance Grants are untied grants and can be used flexibly and allow us to do all the things other grants don’t allow us to do.

·    Indicated that consideration was happening in relation to bringing forward payments of FAG’s from 75%/25% to 100% in advance.

·    Reinforced that local govt roads make up 70% of roads in Australia.

·    ALGA were disappointed that LCRI program had ceased.

 

Vasyl Myroshnychenko – Ambassador of Ukraine to Australia

·    Provided update on war

·    The Ambassador also asked all delegates to consider reaching out in any way they may be able to assist at whatever level that may be. Government to government or community to community

 

Hon Peter Dutton MP - Leader of the Opposition

·    Provided criticisms of current government including not increasing the Financial Assistance Grants.

·    Fielded questions in regard to constitutional referendum

 

Jimmy Rees - Keynote speaker

·    Talked about transitioning from kids tv to developing content and building a community.

PANELS

 

Title: Future of local government

·    Dr Jonathan Carr-West- identified the challenges for local government:

 

·  Nick Moraitis - Young Mayor’s program.

·           Has run youth councils and elected Young Mayors as a way to better engage young people in local government. Looking for pilot places in NSW, VIC and QLD.

 

Title: Building a stronger workforce

Lord Mayor Sally Capp - City of Melbourne

·           State govt is building lots and therefore stealing staff.

·           Find new staff by appealing to a diverse community.

·           Raised whether remote working flexibility is a good thing.

·           Only 16% of international students stay in Australia. We train them up and then let them go.

 

Mayor Karen Vernon - Town of Victoria Park

Identified three areas of critical shortages: Governance, engineering, & mechanics.

Initiatives to deal with skill shortages:

·           Use of consultants

·           Policy of 50/50 interviews gender based

·           Part time options

·           Job sharing

·           Flexible work arrangements

·           Development program (Grow our own)

·           Apprenticeships

·           Become employer of choice

 

Motions

All Wagga Wagga motions passed during the conference without opposition so carried unanimously.

 

 

ALGA Day 2 Thursday 15^th June

 

Anthony Albanese- Prime Minister

·    General welcome to all delegates to the ALGA conference

 

Brief meeting with Senator Deb O’Neill- Duty Senator for Riverina at Parliament House

·    Met with Mayor, General Manager, and Clr Hayes.

 

Meeting with Matt Thistlethwaite MP - Assistant Minister for Defence, for Veterans’ Affairs, for the Republic at Parliament House

·    Met with Mayor, General Manager, and Clr Hayes to continue discussion on the airport lease and related issues.

 

PANELS

 

Affordable housing crisis panel

Nathan Dal Bon - CEO National Housing Finance and Investment Corporation

Wendy Hayhurst - CEO Community Housing Industry Association

 

Cyber Security and Local Government Panel

Clive Reeves - Deputy Chief Information Security Officer - Telstra

Stephanie Crowe - First Assistant Director-General Cyber Security Resilience - Australian Cyber Security Centre

Gary Oakley - Head of JLT Public Sector - Pacific

 

Discussed that cyber security is a growing concern with local governments.

 

Paying the ransom for ransomware ends up making it worse.

Meeting with Kristy McBain - Minister for Regional Development Local Government and Territories

Mayor, General and Clr Hayes met with the Minister to discuss inland rail at Parliament House.

 

 

 

Friday- Australian Council of Local Government

 

After being disbanded for a decade ACLG met for the day. The re-establishment of the ACLG builds on the Australian Government’s commitment to work with local governments to build liveable and socially equitable communities in Australia’s cities and regions. During the day numerous Federal Ministers discussed broad issues and took questions from the audience.

 

Speech by Anthony Albanese- Prime Minister

·    Announced funding for renewable energy new $100 million Community Energy Upgrades Fund today to enable local government to deliver energy upgrades and bill savings for community facilities like local pools, sporting clubs and community centres.

·    Announced that for 23/24 100% of FAG grants will be paid in advance.

·    Mention of funding for flood gauges being released.

 

Panel 1: The Hon Catherine King MP - Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government

Encourage councils to utilise the Growing Regions or Thriving Suburbs funding available.

 

The Hon Bill Shorten MP - Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme and Government Services

Discussed the importance of ensuring the NDIS works and is sustainable. Highlighted that there is still an expectation of State and Local Government to continue to play their role in providing disability services and support and that the NDIS was never designed for other services to withdraw.

 

Clr Hayes asked about how to promote adult lay down change facilities along highways. Minister replied about advocating to petrol stations etc. at service centres to install them and that disability needs to stop being viewed as a cost deficit model. He also offered help in this advocacy.

 

Meeting with staff from the office of The Hon Catherine King MP - Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government at Parliament House

Mayor and Clr Hayes met with staff to discuss inland rail issues.

N/A

Code of Meeting Practice

Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy (POL 025)

Councillor Induction and Professional Development Policy (POL 113)

 

 

Community leadership and collaboration

Objective: Wagga Wagga has strong community leadership and a shared vision for the future

Our leaders represent our community

 

N/A

N/A

 

 

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 17 July 2023

RP-1

 

Reports from Staff

RP-1               2022/23 WORKS IN PROGRESS AND BUDGET REVOTES

Author:                        Carolyn Rodney 

General Manager:    Peter Thompson

         

 

Summary:

This report is for Council to consider and approve the proposed 2022/23 capital and operating budget revotes and works in progress required to manage the 2023/24 budget and Long-Term Financial Plan.

 

 

Recommendation That Council: a       approve the proposed 2022/23 capital and operating budget revotes into the 2023/24 financial year as presented in this report b       note the 2022/23 capital and operating works in progress transfers into the 2023/24 financial year as presented in this report

 

This report provides a summary of the 2022/23 capital works in progress and those projects that have not yet commenced as at 30 June 2023.

 

The adoption of the recommendation will enable the revote of the funding allocation from the 2022/23 budget for projects that have not commenced, to the 2023/24 budget.

 

The report also highlights the various works in progress as at 30 June 2023 noting that the unexpended funds will automatically transfer to the 2023/24 financial year without the need for a Council resolution, as per Section 211 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005.

 

It is important to note that the estimated works in progress and revote figures that are presented in this report are indicative and may be subject to change pending the finalisation of the 2022/23 financial statements.

 

2022/23 Project Revotes and Works in Progress Transfers

 

The tables included in the Attachment provide details of the total capital works program for 2022/23, the projects recommended for revoting and the works in progress. Below is a summary of each table:

 

Reference	Description	Amount
Table A	2022/23 Capital Works Summary
Table B	Total Capital Project Revotes Less Future Year Capital Project Deferrals 2023/24 Capital Project Revotes	$9,364,820 ($1,804,898) $7,559,922
Table C	Capital Projects – Works in Progress	$49,793,224
Table D	Operating Project Revotes	$788,861
Table E	Operating Project – Works in Progress	$10,097,622

 

By approving in principle these requests, the total 2023/24 revised capital works program based on the budgets adopted in the Long Term Financial Plan (LTFP) will be:

$  33,539,246 – 2023/24 LTFP Adopted One-off Capital Works Budget

$  21,649,500 – 2023/24 LTFP Adopted Recurrent Capital Program

$  57,353,146 – Requested for Revote and as Works in Progress Transfers

$112,541,892 – Proposed Capital Works Program 2023/24*

 

*The estimated Revotes and Works in Progress figures that are presented in this report are indicative and are subject to change pending the finalisation of the 2022/23 financial statements.

 

Please note that the Capital Works Pending category currently has a total budget of $38,732,266 allocated to projects for 2023/24 that has not been included in the above totals. The assumption is that these projects may also be voted into the delivery program during the 2023/24 financial year.

 

Please also be advised that once the financial year is finalised with all 2022/23 invoices paid and the outstanding commitments are determined as to which year they relate, the 2022/23 proposed budget revotes and works in progress transfer amounts may reduce. The $57,353,146 figure shown above for Capital ($7,559,922 + $49,793,224) assumes all current outstanding commitments for the projects will be paid from the 2023/24 financial year budget.

 

Local Government (General) Regulation 2005

 

Section 211      Authorisation of expenditure

 

(1)     A council, or a person purporting to act on behalf of a council, must not incur a liability for the expenditure of money unless the council at the annual meeting held in accordance with subclause (2) or at a later ordinary meeting:

(a)     has approved the expenditure, and

(b)     has voted the money necessary to meet the expenditure.

(2)     A council must each year hold a meeting for the purpose of approving expenditure and voting money.

(3)     All such approvals and votes lapse at the end of a council’s financial year. However, this subclause does not apply to approvals and votes relating to:

(a)   work carried out or started, or contracted to be carried out, for the council, or

(b)   any service provided, or contracted to be provided, for the council, or

(c)   goods or materials provided, or contracted to be provided, for the council, or

(d)   facilities provided or started, or contracted to be provided, for the council, before the end of the year concerned, or to the payment of remuneration to members of the council’s staff.

 

Community Leadership and Collaboration

Objective: We have strong leadership

Outcome: We are accountable and transparent

 

This report is a control mechanism that assists in addressing the following potential risks to Council:

·        If Council determine not to approve the operating and capital revotes, the justification for the revote relating to each project being outlined in the report, highlights some of the potential risks for Council.

All relevant areas within the Council have consulted with the Finance Division in relation to the works in progress and revotes listed in this report.

 

 

 

1⇩.

Carryover List 2022.23

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 17 July 2023

RP-1

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 17 July 2023

RP-2

 

RP-2               REQUESTS FOR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE - SECTION 356

Author:                        Carolyn Rodney 

General Manager:    Peter Thompson

         

 

Summary:

Council has received two (2) fee waiver requests which are detailed for Council’s consideration.

 

 

Recommendation That Council: a       in accordance with Section 356 of the Local Government Act 1993, provide financial assistance to the following organisations: i.     Wagga Wagga Circus Quirkus $2,400.00 (Request 1) ii.    Wagga Wagga Rescue Squad - $765.00 (Request 2) b       note the proposed budget available for financial assistance requests for the remainder of the 2023/24 financial year

 

Two (2) financial assistance requests are proposed for consideration at this Ordinary Council meeting. Details of the requests are shown below:

1.   Wagga Wagga Circus Quirkus – Request for Sponsorship – $2,400.00

Michael Dove, of Wagga Wagga Circus Quirkus in the attached letter requests:

“Hi Toni,

We're excited to announce the Wagga Wagga Circus Quirkus returns for 2023, once again hosted by the Rotary Club of South Wagga Wagga, and for our local special needs and disadvantaged children.

Attached is our sponsor's letter with information about the Circus Quirkus show and the wonderful work the Rotary Club do in the community,

I hope you can spare a moment to read our letter and consider supporting us this year!

Best regards,

Michael Dove.”

The above request aligns with Council’s Strategic Plan “We activate our community spaces to promote connectedness” – Objective: “We have opportunities to connect with others”.

Wagga Wagga Circus Quirkus received $2,400.00 in financial assistance from Council in the 2022/23 financial year for last year’s event.

 

2.      Wagga Wagga Rescue Squad (WWRS) – Request for fee waiver of Annual Licence Fee– $765.00

Historically, the annual licence fee for the WWRS has been waived on the basis that the organisation is not-for-profit and run by volunteers who provide the Wagga Wagga community with 24/7 emergency service.

 

The annual licence fee of $765.00 for the period of 01/05/2023 – 30/04/2023 is recommended to waived, funded by the Section 356 budget.

 

In future years, it is proposed to include the WWRS annual licence fee within the Section 356 contributions, grants and donations table of the Annual Delivery Program. Unfortunately, this was missed during the compilation of the 2023/24 budget process.

 

The above request aligns with Council’s Strategic Plan “Community Place and Identity” – Objective: Our community feel welcome, included and connected”.

 

Section 356 Budget Summary
2023/24 Budget available for requests received during financial year	$42,060.00
1)   Wagga Wagga Circus Quirkus	($2,400.00)
2)   Wagga Wagga Rescue Squad	($765.00)
Subtotal Fee Waivers included in this report – proposed to be funded from the Section 356 Budget	($3,165.00)
Approved 5 June 2023 for the 2023/24 financial year (Riverina Branch of the NSW Justices Association)	($775.00)
Balance of Section 356 fee waiver financial assistance budget for the remainder of the 2023/24 Financial Year	$38,120.00

 

Job consolidation number: 13619 Section 356 Donations/waiving of Council fees and charges

POL 078 – Financial Assistance Policy

 

 

Community Place and Identity

Objective: Our community feel welcome, included and connected

Activate community spaces to promote connectedness

 

N/A

Cross Directorate consultation has been undertaken as required.

 

 

1⇩.

1. Rotary Club South Wagga - Circus Quirkus - Section 356 Request

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 17 July 2023

RP-2

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 17 July 2023

RP-3

 

RP-3               2023/24 BUDGET VARIATIONS AND 30 JUNE 2023 INVESTMENT REPORT

Author:                        Carolyn Rodney 

General Manager:    Peter Thompson

         

 

Summary:

This report is for Council to consider and approve the proposed budget variations required to manage the 2023/24 budget and Long-Term Financial Plan.   This report is also for Council to consider its external investments and performance as at 30 June 2023.

 

 

Recommendation That Council: a       approve the proposed 2023/24 budget variations as presented in this report b       note the Responsible Accounting Officer’s reports, in accordance with the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 (Part 9 Division 3: Clause 203) that the financial position of Council is satisfactory having regard to the original estimates of income and expenditure and the recommendations made above c        note the details of the external investments as at 30 June 2023 in accordance with section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993

 

The usual monthly financial report is not included in the Business paper due to the commencement of the year-end process and preparation of the financial statements for auditing. The 2022/23 Financial Statements will be presented to Council in October 2023 which will highlight and provide analysis on Council’s overall financial performance and position for the 2022/23 financial year. Council’s Independent Auditor will present the 2022/23 Audit Report at the November 2023 Council meeting.

 

This report includes proposed 2023/24 budget variations for Council’s consideration and adoption. Council is forecasting a balanced budget position for the 2023/24 financial year as at 17 July 2023.

 

This report also includes details on the performance of Council’s investments as at 30 June 2023. Council has experienced a positive monthly investment performance for the month of June when compared to budget ($231,950 up on the monthly budget). Council’s investment portfolio continued to perform strongly throughout the 2022/23 financial year, with the portfolio returning 2.91% for the year, outperforming the AusBond Bank Bill Index by 0.02%

 

 

 

 

 

2023/24 Revised Budget Result – (Surplus) / Deficit	$’000s
Original 2023/24 Budget Result as adopted by Council Budget Variations for 2023/24	$0 $0
Proposed Revised Budget result for 2023/24, as at 17 July 2023 - (Surplus) / Deficit	$0

 

The proposed Budget Variations to 17 July 2023 are listed below:

 

 

Investment Summary as at 30 June 2023

In accordance with Regulation 212 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005, details of Wagga Wagga City Council’s external investments are outlined below.

 

Institution	Rating	Closing Balance Invested 31/05/2023 $	Closing Balance Invested 30/06/2023 $	June EOM Current Yield %	June EOM % of Portfolio	Investment Date	Maturity Date	Term (mths)
At Call Accounts
NAB	AA-	416,456	256,482	4.10%	0.12%	N/A	N/A	N/A
CBA	AA-	11,103,313	4,757,125	4.10%	2.15%	N/A	N/A	N/A
CBA	AA-	17,239,936	27,296,804	4.15%	12.34%	N/A	N/A	N/A
Macquarie Bank	A+	9,291,290	9,320,129	3.90%	4.21%	N/A	N/A	N/A
Total At Call Accounts		38,050,996	41,630,541	4.09%	18.82%
Short Term Deposits
CBA	AA-	2,000,000	0	0.00%	0.00%	8/06/2022	8/06/2023	12
AMP	BBB	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.70%	0.45%	15/11/2022	15/11/2023	12
AMP	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.55%	0.90%	30/11/2022	30/11/2023	12
CBA	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.69%	0.45%	30/01/2023	30/01/2024	12
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.06%	0.45%	24/05/2023	24/05/2024	12
Australian Unity	BBB+	0	1,000,000	5.44%	0.45%	8/06/2023	11/06/2024	12
ING Bank	A	0	2,000,000	5.62%	0.90%	26/06/2023	26/06/2024	12
ING Bank	A	0	2,000,000	5.65%	0.90%	30/06/2023	28/06/2024	12
Total Short Term Deposits		7,000,000	10,000,000	5.15%	4.52%
Medium Term Deposits
BOQ	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.20%	0.90%	4/01/2022	4/01/2024	24
BOQ	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	3.78%	0.45%	1/06/2022	3/06/2024	24
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.32%	0.90%	28/06/2021	29/06/2026	60
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.80%	0.90%	15/11/2021	17/11/2025	48
BoQ	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	2.15%	0.45%	8/07/2019	10/07/2023	48
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	2.03%	0.90%	6/11/2019	6/11/2024	60
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.83%	0.90%	28/11/2019	28/11/2024	60
Judo Bank	BBB-	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.30%	0.45%	3/12/2021	4/12/2023	24
ICBC	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.75%	0.45%	6/01/2020	8/01/2024	48
BOQ	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	2.00%	0.45%	28/02/2020	28/02/2025	60
Police Credit Union	NR	1,000,000	1,000,000	2.20%	0.45%	1/04/2020	1/04/2025	60
ICBC	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.85%	0.45%	29/05/2020	29/05/2025	60
ICBC	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.86%	0.45%	1/06/2020	2/06/2025	60
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.75%	0.90%	25/06/2020	25/06/2025	60
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.75%	0.90%	25/06/2020	25/06/2025	60
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.60%	0.90%	29/06/2020	28/06/2024	48
ICBC	A	3,000,000	3,000,000	5.07%	1.36%	30/06/2022	30/06/2027	60
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.42%	0.90%	7/07/2020	8/07/2024	48
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.50%	0.90%	17/08/2020	18/08/2025	60
BoQ	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.25%	0.45%	7/09/2020	8/09/2025	60
BoQ	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.25%	0.90%	14/09/2020	15/09/2025	60
NAB	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	0.60%	0.45%	14/09/2021	14/09/2023	24
AMP	BBB	1,000,000	1,000,000	3.30%	0.45%	25/05/2022	27/11/2023	18
ICBC	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.20%	0.45%	7/12/2020	8/12/2025	60
NAB	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	0.95%	0.90%	29/01/2021	29/01/2026	60
NAB	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.08%	0.45%	22/02/2021	20/02/2026	60
NAB	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.25%	0.90%	3/03/2021	2/03/2026	60
NAB	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.40%	0.90%	21/06/2021	19/06/2026	60
NAB	AA-	2,000,000	0	0.00%	0.00%	25/06/2021	26/06/2023	24
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.32%	0.90%	25/06/2021	25/06/2026	60
ICBC	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.32%	0.45%	25/08/2021	25/08/2026	60
NAB	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	0.65%	0.90%	31/08/2021	31/08/2023	24
AMP	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.00%	0.90%	18/10/2021	17/10/2024	36
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.56%	0.90%	30/11/2021	29/11/2024	36
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	2.00%	0.90%	8/02/2022	10/02/2025	36
P&N Bank	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	2.40%	0.90%	9/03/2022	10/03/2025	36
P&N Bank	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	2.00%	0.90%	10/03/2022	11/03/2024	24
MyState	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	2.20%	0.90%	2/03/2022	3/03/2025	36
CBA	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	3.28%	0.90%	26/04/2022	26/04/2024	24
CBA	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	3.78%	0.90%	4/05/2022	6/05/2024	24
CBA	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	3.99%	0.90%	4/05/2022	5/05/2025	36
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	3.76%	0.45%	23/05/2022	23/05/2024	24
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	3.95%	0.90%	6/06/2022	6/06/2024	24
Australian Unity	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.15%	0.90%	8/06/2022	11/06/2024	24
Suncorp	A+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.40%	0.90%	22/06/2022	14/12/2023	18
MyState	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.45%	0.90%	29/06/2022	28/06/2024	24
BoQ	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.50%	0.45%	7/07/2022	7/07/2025	36
CBA	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.25%	0.45%	12/08/2022	12/08/2025	36
P&N Bank	BBB	3,000,000	3,000,000	4.55%	1.36%	29/08/2022	29/08/2025	36
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.55%	0.90%	2/09/2022	2/09/2025	36
P&N Bank	BBB	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.40%	0.45%	9/09/2022	9/09/2025	36
BoQ	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.70%	0.45%	4/10/2022	4/10/2024	24
AMP	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.95%	0.90%	21/10/2022	21/10/2024	24
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.20%	0.90%	21/10/2022	21/10/2025	36
AMP	BBB	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.75%	0.45%	15/11/2022	14/11/2024	24
AMP	BBB	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.80%	0.45%	21/11/2022	20/11/2025	36
P&N Bank	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.75%	0.90%	16/12/2022	16/12/2024	24
Police Credit Union	NR	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.04%	0.90%	15/02/2023	17/02/2025	24
Police Credit Union	NR	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.94%	0.90%	14/03/2023	14/03/2025	24
P&N Bank	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.00%	0.90%	14/03/2023	15/03/2027	48
Hume Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.75%	0.90%	31/03/2023	31/03/2025	24
Auswide	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.95%	0.90%	13/04/2023	13/04/2026	36
P&N Bank	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.20%	0.90%	20/04/2023	20/04/2027	48
P&N Bank	BBB	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.20%	0.45%	26/05/2023	26/05/2026	36
Total Medium Term Deposits		108,000,000	106,000,000	2.96%	47.91%
Floating Rate Notes - Senior Debt
Westpac	AA-	2,515,173	2,523,665	BBSW + 88	1.14%	16/05/2019	16/08/2024	63
Suncorp	A+	1,254,795	1,259,880	BBSW + 78	0.57%	30/07/2019	30/07/2024	60
ANZ	AA-	2,006,594	2,013,065	BBSW + 77	0.91%	29/08/2019	29/08/2024	60
HSBC	AA-	2,524,070	2,505,397	BBSW + 83	1.13%	27/09/2019	27/09/2024	60
ANZ	AA-	1,512,665	1,517,898	BBSW + 76	0.69%	16/01/2020	16/01/2025	60
NAB	AA-	2,016,206	2,023,075	BBSW + 77	0.91%	21/01/2020	21/01/2025	60
Newcastle Permanent	BBB	1,101,267	1,106,099	BBSW + 112	0.50%	4/02/2020	4/02/2025	60
Macquarie Bank	A+	2,005,643	2,013,773	BBSW + 84	0.91%	12/02/2020	12/02/2025	60
BOQ Covered	AAA	553,617	555,582	BBSW + 107	0.25%	14/05/2020	14/05/2025	60
UBS	A+	1,498,561	1,505,431	BBSW + 87	0.68%	30/07/2020	30/07/2025	60
Bank of China Australia	A	1,503,974	1,509,762	BBSW + 78	0.68%	27/10/2020	27/10/2023	36
CBA	AA-	2,001,496	2,009,964	BBSW + 70	0.91%	14/01/2022	14/01/2027	60
Rabobank	A+	1,994,387	2,002,368	BBSW + 73	0.90%	27/01/2022	27/01/2027	60
Newcastle Permanent	BBB	979,525	985,641	BBSW + 100	0.45%	10/02/2022	10/02/2027	60
NAB	AA-	2,390,153	2,400,151	BBSW + 72	1.08%	25/02/2022	25/02/2027	60
Bendigo-Adelaide	BBB+	1,666,225	1,653,108	BBSW + 98	0.75%	17/03/2022	17/03/2025	36
ANZ	AA-	2,011,917	2,020,509	BBSW + 97	0.91%	12/05/2022	12/05/2027	60
NAB	AA-	1,709,606	1,714,884	BBSW + 90	0.78%	30/05/2022	30/05/2025	36
Suncorp	A+	902,008	905,502	BBSW + 93	0.41%	22/08/2022	22/08/2025	36
ANZ	AA-	2,540,411	2,551,123	BBSW + 120	1.15%	4/11/2022	4/11/2027	60
NAB	AA-	2,530,627	2,541,521	BBSW + 120	1.15%	25/11/2022	25/11/2027	60
Suncorp	A+	1,119,374	1,110,539	BBSW + 125	0.50%	14/12/2022	14/12/2027	60
CBA	AA-	2,031,012	2,040,216	BBSW + 115	0.92%	13/01/2023	13/01/2028	60
Bank Australia	BBB	1,909,222	1,920,749	BBSW + 155	0.87%	22/02/2023	22/02/2027	48
Bendigo-Adelaide Covered	AAA	0	1,002,828	BBSW + 115	0.45%	16/06/2023	16/06/2028	60
Total Floating Rate Notes - Senior Debt		42,278,527	43,392,733		19.61%
Fixed Rate Bonds
ING Covered	AAA	674,069	664,945	1.10%	0.30%	19/08/2021	19/08/2026	60
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	3,000,000	3,000,000	1.00%	1.36%	24/08/2021	16/12/2024	40
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	3,000,000	3,000,000	1.50%	1.36%	24/08/2021	15/12/2026	64
BoQ	BBB+	1,728,785	1,704,066	2.10%	0.77%	27/10/2021	27/10/2026	60
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.50%	0.90%	6/08/2021	15/12/2026	64
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.50%	0.45%	14/07/2021	15/12/2026	65
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.30%	0.90%	29/04/2021	15/06/2026	61
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.00%	0.90%	30/11/2020	15/12/2025	60
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.00%	0.45%	20/11/2020	15/12/2025	61
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.00%	0.90%	21/10/2020	15/12/2025	62
Total Fixed Rate Bonds		18,402,854	18,369,011	1.30%	8.30%
Managed Funds
NSW Tcorp	NR	1,831,719	1,866,822	1.92%	0.84%	17/03/2014	1/06/2028	170
Total Managed Funds		1,831,719	1,866,822	1.92%	0.84%
TOTAL CASH ASSETS, CASH EQUIVALENTS & INVESTMENTS		215,564,095	221,259,107		100.00%
LESS: RIVERINA REGIONAL LIBRARY (RRL) CASH AT BANK		2,462,219	2,457,473
TOTAL WWCC CASH ASSETS, CASH EQUIVALENTS & INVESTMENTS		213,101,876	218,801,634

 

 

Council’s investment portfolio is dominated by Term Deposits, equating to approximately 52% of the portfolio across a broad range of counterparties. Cash equates to 19%, with Floating Rate Notes (FRNs) around 20%, fixed rate bonds around 8% and growth funds around 1% of the portfolio.

 

 

Council’s investment portfolio is well diversified in complying assets across the entire credit spectrum. It is also well diversified from a rating perspective. Credit quality is diversified and is predominately invested amongst the investment grade Authorised Deposit-Taking Institutions (ADIs) (being BBB- or higher), with a smaller allocation to unrated ADIs.

 

 

All investments are within the defined Policy limits, as outlined in the Rating Allocation chart below:

Investment Portfolio Balance

 

Council’s investment portfolio balance has increased over the past month, up from $213.10M to $218.80M. On 27 June, Council received 100% prepayment of its 2023/24 Financial Assistance grant of approximately $12.36M.

 

 

Monthly Investment Movements

 

Redemptions/Sales – Council redeemed the following investment securities during June 2023:

 

 

New Investments – Council purchased the following investment securities during June 2023:

 

 

Rollovers – Council did not roll over any investment securities during June 2023.

 

Monthly Investment Performance

 

Interest/growth/capital gains/(losses) for the month totalled $603,148, which compares favourably with the revised budget for the period of $371,198 - outperforming budget for the month by $231,950.

 

Council’s outperformance to budget for June is mainly due to better than budgeted returns on Councils investment portfolio. This is a result of the ongoing movements in the cash rate made by the Reserve Bank of Australia, with the latest increase in early June 2023 bringing the cash rate to 4.10%, up significantly from a record low of 0.10% in April 2022. Council experienced a positive return on its NSW T-Corp Managed Fund for the month of June, with the fund returning +1.92% (or $35,103) as international (+5.95%) and domestic (+1.76%) shares rebounded strongly from previous months declines.

 

 

As can be seen from the above graph, Council’s interest on investments outperformed the revised budget for the 2022/23 financial year. Interest and Investment income for the year totalled $5.95M, outperforming both the original budget of $1.58M and the revised budget of $4.45M for the 2022/23 year. This increase in income was mainly due to increasing interest rates throughout the 2022/23 financial year, as a result of the RBA cash rate increasing from 0.10% in April 2022 to 4.10% in June 2023.

 

In comparison to the AusBond Bank Bill Index* of 3.72% (annualised), Council’s investment portfolio returned 3.48% (annualised) for the month of June. Cash and At‑Call accounts returned 4.10% (annualised) for the month. These funds are utilised for daily cash flow management and need to be available to meet operating and contractual payments as they fall due.

 

Over the past year, Council’s investment portfolio has returned 2.91%, outperforming the AusBond Bank Bill index by 0.02%. Councils investment portfolio has continued to outperform the AusBond Bank Bill Index* over the longer-term time period, returning 1.94% per annum over the past 3 years – outperforming the benchmark by 0.94% over this time.

 

* The AusBond Bank Bill Index is the leading benchmark for the Australian fixed income market. It is interpolated from the RBA Cash rate, 1 month and 3-month Bank Bill Swap rates.

Report by Responsible Accounting Officer

Budget variations are reported in accordance with Council’s POL 052 Budget Policy.

 

Investments are reported in accordance with Council’s POL 075 Investment Policy.

 

Local Government Act 1993

Section 625 - How may councils invest?

Local Government (General) Regulation 2021

Section 212 - Reports on council investments

Community Leadership and Collaboration

Objective: We have strong leadership

Outcome: We are accountable and transparent

 

This report is a control mechanism that assists in addressing the following potential risks to Council:

·        Loss of investment income or capital resulting from ongoing management of investments, especially during difficult economic times

·        Failure to demonstrate to the community that its funds are being expended in an efficient and effective manner

All relevant areas within the Council have consulted with the Finance Division in relation to the budget variations listed in this report.

 

The Finance Division has consulted with relevant external parties to confirm Council’s investment portfolio balances.

 

 

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 17 July 2023

RP-4

 

RP-4               Annual Grants Program 2023/24 - Community Programs & Projects

Author:         Madeleine Scully 

Executive:    Janice Summerhayes

 

Summary:

Council’s Annual Grants Program consists of ten grant categories: Community Programs & Projects; Recreational & Community Facilities; Neighbourhood & Rural Villages; Rural Halls; Arts, Culture & Creative Industries; Local Heritage; Events; Environment; Youth Programs & Projects; and Small Business. The program offers the opportunity for individuals, community groups and organisations to apply for funding for a range of programs and activities across the Local Government Area.   The total amount of funding available in the 2023/24 financial year is $202,000. The 2022/23 remaining uncommitted funds including  COVID impacted projects that did not proceed total $35,361.   This sum along with an additional $15,000 toward the Events category that was endorsed at the 26 June 2023 Ordinary Meeting of Council, has been included in the carryover budget as detailed in the Finance Report within this business paper, bringing the total funding available for 2023/24 to $252,361.   The Annual Grants Program 23/24 funding priorities continued to focus on areas within the Local Government Area that have high levels of social and community disadvantage. The Annual Grants Program application period opened on Monday 27 February 2023 and closed on Monday 1 May 2023. This report provides details regarding the Community Programs & Projects category for 2023/24.

 

 

Recommendation That Council approve the successful applications for the Community Programs and Projects Category of the 2022/23 Annual Grants Program as detailed in the report totalling $30,000.

 

The Annual Grants 2023/24 program consists of ten grant categories: Community Programs & Projects; Recreational & Community Facilities; Neighbourhood & Rural Villages; Rural Halls; Arts, Culture & Creative Industries; Local Heritage; Events; Environment; Youth Programs & Projects; and Small Business.

 

Each category is reported as a separate report to allow councillors to consider pecuniary or non-pecuniary interests in each report and annual grants category. An overall total of 119 applications were received for assessment in the Annual Grants Program 2023/24, with $252,361 available inclusive of the 2022/23 uncommitted funds of $35,61 and additional $15,000 to the Events category that was endorsed at the 26 June 2023 Ordinary Meeting of Council.

The total amount of funding requested by the community across all categories was $752,993.58. All categories in the Annual Grants Program 2023/24 were oversubscribed except for the Environment and Youth Programs & Projects categories.

 

A total of twenty two applications were received in the Annual Grants Program 2023/24 – Community Programs & Projects category. Applications were assessed with the panel comprising of a councillor, independent community representatives and staff.

 

Panel members were Councillor Amelia Parkins, Council’s Community Development Officer, and an independent community representative, Maxine Honeysett.

 

Of the twenty two applications received a total of $114,003.55 was requested with $30,000 available. Out of these applications, ten applications were successful, either fully funded or part funded. There were twelve unsuccessful applications.

 

The total amount of unallocated funds is $0. The following table details the successful applications received. A list of unsuccessful applicants has been provided under separate cover to Councillors.

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 17 July 2023

RP-4

 

 

Organisation Name	Project Description	Funding Requested	Funding Approved	Reason for Part Funding
Carevan Wagga Wagga Inc.	Supply of containers for the 22,000 meals provided at no cost to recipients.	$3,672.00	$1,000.00	Part funding due to funds available in a competitive category. A project with clear objectives & social impact outcomes. Applicant indicates they are willing to accept part funding.
Kurrajong Therapy Plus	To hold a smoking ceremony for our staff, clients, families, wider community, and the building in which we meet and work each day to increase our cultural awareness.	$700.00	$700.00	A project with clear objectives & social impact and community engagement outcomes with a focus on the development of Wiradjuri and First Nations cultural literacy skills and awareness
The Bike Canteen	To open a community workshop in 2023. This workshop will be a place where tools, parts and bike stands are offered for anybody to use, assisted by workshop volunteers, to learn how to maintain a bicycle and/or repair bicycles for other people.	$7,500.00	$6,500.00	A project with clear objectives & social impact outcomes, community education and engagement.
Riverina Nepalese Community	To promote traditional cultural values by purchasing traditional musical instruments and organising training programs for music and dance	$3,500.00	$1,000.00	Part funding due to funds available in a competitive category. A project with clear objectives & social impact outcomes. Applicant indicates they are willing to accept part funding.
Wagga Amateur Radio Club Inc.	Install two new yaesu repeaters at our two radio sites located in Wagga Wagga, to replace older existing repeaters currently installed.	$3,070.00	$1,895.00	Part funding due to funds available in a competitive category. A project with clear objectives outcomes. Applicant indicates they are willing to accept part funding to go toward the purchase of one repeater.
Kurrajong	Purchase of a defibrillator for use with Kurrajong's community initiative Hildasid Farm.	$2,688.00	$1,000.00	Part funding due to funds available in a competitive category. A project with clear objectives & social impact outcomes. Applicant indicates they are willing to accept part funding.
Edel Quinn – St Vincent de Paul	Install of lockers to allow rough sleepers to store their belongings, providing the necessary safety and dignity for people to conduct their daily tasks without having to carry around their belongings and be identified and stigmatised as a 'homeless' person.	$6,534.00	$6,227.50	A project with clear objectives & social impact outcomes, community education and engagement.
Twin City Skate Club Inc.	A range of free and low-cost school holiday roller skating activities to cater for the diverse needs of people within our communities. Proposed activities include sensory skate sessions, roller dance workshops, artistic roller-skating workshops, and free learn-to-skate sessions for school-age children.	$7,500.00	$3,500.00	Part funding due to funds available in a competitive category. A project with clear objectives & social impact outcomes. Applicant indicates they are willing to accept part funding.
The Salvation Army – Wagga Wagga	To provide safe accessible lockers for homeless + displaced person to store their belongings and also provide food, emergency relief, casework and assessment and a holistic approach to journeying with community members.	$6,534.00	$6,227.50	A project with clear objectives & social impact outcomes, community education and engagement.
Wagga Wagga Antique Society	Purchase of audio visual and digital equipment to present a technically improved method of delivering lectures, talks and presentations to members, guests, and others within the community.	$1,950.00	$1,950.00	A project with clear objectives with a focus on community education and engagement.
	Total	$43,648.00	$30,000.00

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 17 July 2023

RP-4

 

 

POL 078 – Financial Assistance Policy

Safe and Healthy Community

Objective: Our community feel safe

Create safe spaces and places

N/A

Extensive advertising and media communication was undertaken to promote the Annual Grants Program 2023/24 on all Council platforms. A community engagement workshop was held on 15 March 2023. Council staff proactively contacted community networks to promote the annual grants program and to provide assistance in the preparation of applications.

 

Mail

Traditional Media

Community Engagement

Digital

Rates notices insert

Direct mail

Letterbox drop

Council news

Media release

Media opportunity

TV/radio advertising

One-on-one meeting(s)

Community meeting(s)

Stakeholder workshop(s)

Drop-in session(s)

Survey/feedback form(s)

Connect.Wagga

Email newsletter

Social media

Website

Inform

Consult

Involve

☒

☒

☒

☒

☒

Collaborate

 

 

 

 

1.

ANNUAL GRANTS PROGRAM 2023-24 - Unsuccessful Applicants - Community Programs Projects.pdf This matter is considered to be confidential under Section 10A(2) of the Local Government Act 1993, as it deals with: commercial information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed, prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it. - Provided under separate cover

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 17 July 2023

RP-5

 

RP-5               Annual Grants Program 2023/24 - Neighbourhood & Rural Villages

Author:         Janice Summerhayes 

         

 

Summary:

Council’s Annual Grants Program consists of ten grant categories: Community Programs & Projects; Recreational & Community Facilities; Neighbourhood & Rural Villages; Rural Halls; Arts, Culture & Creative Industries; Local Heritage; Events; Environment; Youth Programs & Projects; and Small Business. The program offers the opportunity for individuals, community groups and organisations to apply for funding for a range of programs and activities across the Local Government Area.   The total amount of funding available in the 2023/24 financial year is $202,000. The 2022/23 remaining uncommitted funds including COVID impacted projects that did not proceed total $35,361. This sum along with an additional $15,000 toward the Events category that was endorsed at the 26 June 2023 Ordinary Meeting of Council, has been included in the carryover budget as detailed in the Finance Report within this business paper, bringing the total funding available for 2023/24 to $252,361.   The Annual Grants Program 23/24 funding priorities continued to focus on areas within the Local Government Area that have high levels of social and community disadvantage. The Annual Grants Program application period opened on Monday 27 February 2023 and closed on Monday 1 May 2023. This report provides details regarding the Neighbourhood and Rural Villages category for 2023/24.

 

 

Recommendation That Council approve the successful applications for the Neighbourhood & Rural Villages Category of the 2022/23 Annual Grants Program as detailed in the report totalling $22,000.

 

The Annual Grants Program 2023/24 consists of ten grant categories: Community Programs & Projects; Recreational & Community Facilities; Neighbourhood & Rural Villages; Rural Halls; Arts, Culture & Creative Industries; Local Heritage; Events; Environment; Youth Programs & Projects; and Small Business.

 

Each category is reported as a separate report to allow councillors to consider pecuniary or non-pecuniary interests in each report and annual grants category. An overall total of 119 applications were received for assessment in the Annual Grants Program 2023/24, with $252,361 available inclusive of the 2022/23 uncommitted funds of $35,361 and an additional $15,000 to the Events category that was endorsed at the 26 June 2023 Ordinary Meeting of Council.

 

The total amount of funding requested by the community across all categories was $752,993.58. All categories in the Annual Grants Program 2023/24 were oversubscribed except for the Environment and Youth Programs & Projects categories.

 

A total of nine applications were received in the Annual Grants Program 2023/24 –Neighbourhood & Rural Villages category. Applications were assessed with the panel comprising of a Councillor, independent community representatives and staff.

 

Panel members were Councillor Tim Koschel, Council’s Community Development Officer, and an independent community representative, Sue MacDonald.

 

Of the nine applications received a total of $56,927.40 was requested with $22,000 available. Out of these applications, seven applications were successful, either fully funded or part funded. Two applications were unsuccessful.

 

The total amount of unallocated funds is $0. The following table details the successful applications received. A list of unsuccessful applicants has been provided under separate cover to Councillors.

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 17 July 2023

RP-5

 

 

Organisation Name	Project Description	Funding Requested	Funding Approved	Reason for Part Funding
Ladysmith P & C Association	Community yoga at Ladysmith Hall program held at the Ladysmith Hall and community park which is accessible to the local and broader community.	$7,500.00	$3,250.00	Part funding due to funds available in a competitive category. A project with clear objectives & outcomes. Applicant indicates they are willing to accept part funding.
Chin Community of Wagga Wagga – Auspice, Multicultural Council Wagga	Host two events to provide an opportunity to showcase Wagga Wagga as a welcoming settlement community to our new community members while offering a platform for cross cultural exchange with other cultural community groups and the wider community of Wagga Wagga.	$4,202.60	$2,460.00	Part funding due to funds available in a competitive category. A project with clear objectives & outcomes. Applicant indicates they are willing to accept part funding therefore funding provided toward the staging for one event only is recommended.
Eastern Riverina Arts	To bring locally produced live music to community halls in rural villages within the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area.	$7,500.00	$2,000.00	Part funding due to funds available in a competitive category. A project with clear objectives & outcomes. Applicant indicates they are willing to accept part funding; to go toward the activation of two rural village halls
Tarcutta Pony Club	Upgrade of old equipment, activating the space and making it a community hub.	$5,500.00	$5,500.00	A detailed application with clear objectives and community benefit outcomes.
Iranian Community of Wagga Wagga – Auspice, Multicultural Council Wagga	Host two events to both raise awareness of continuing struggles for human rights across the world, while showing solidarity with other ethnic communities who reside locally in Wagga Wagga.	$6,504.80	$1,620.00	Part funding due to funds available in a competitive category. A project with clear objectives & outcomes. Applicant indicates they are willing to accept part funding; recommended to go toward the staging for one event only
Humula Progress Association Inc.	Live music event to bring people together from isolated communities in the Humula district.	$5,000.00	$5,000.00	A detailed application with clear objectives and community benefit outcomes.
Mangoplah Cookardina United Eastlakes Football and Netball Club Inc.	Undercover outdoor barbecue area and public space suitable for club members, local community events, functions, training sessions and the wider farming community of Mangoplah. The facility will ensure accessibility for all members of the community.	$7,500.00	$2,170.00	Part funding due to funds available in a competitive category. A project with clear objectives & outcomes. Applicant indicates they are willing to accept part funding.
	Totals	$43,707.40	$22,000.00

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 17 July 2023

RP-5

 

POL 078 – Financial Assistance Policy

Community Place and Identity

Objective: Our community feel welcome, included and connected

Activate community spaces to promote connectedness

 

N/A

Extensive advertising and media communication was undertaken to promote the 2023/24 Annual Grants Program on all Council platforms. A community engagement workshop was held on 15 March 2023. Council staff proactively contacted community networks to promote the annual grants program and to provide assistance in the preparation of applications.

Mail

Traditional Media

Community Engagement

Digital

Rates notices insert

Direct mail

Letterbox drop

Council news

Media release

Media opportunity

TV/radio advertising

One-on-one meeting(s)

Community meeting(s)

Stakeholder workshop(s)

Drop-in session(s)

Survey/feedback form(s)

Connect.Wagga

Email newsletter

Social media

Website

Inform

Consult

Involve

☒

☒

☒

☒

☒

Collaborate

 

 

 

1.

ANNUAL GRANTS PROGRAM 2023-24 - Unsuccessful Applicants - Neighbourhood Rural Villages This matter is considered to be confidential under Section 10A(2) of the Local Government Act 1993, as it deals with: commercial information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed, prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it. - Provided under separate cover

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 17 July 2023

RP-6

 

RP-6               Annual Grants Program 2023/24 - Rural Halls

Author:         Madeleine Scully 

Executive:    Janice Summerhayes

         

 

Summary:

Council’s Annual Grants Program consists of ten grant categories: Community Programs & Projects; Recreational & Community Facilities; Neighbourhood & Rural Villages; Rural Halls; Arts, Culture & Creative Industries; Local Heritage; Events; Environment; Youth Programs & Projects; and Small Business. The program offers the opportunity for individuals, community groups and organisations to apply for funding for a range of programs and activities across the Local Government Area.   The total amount of funding available in the 2023/24 financial year is $202,000. The 2022/23 remaining uncommitted funds including COVID impacted projects that did not proceed total $35,361. This sum along with an additional $15,000 toward the Events category that was endorsed at the 26 June 2023 Ordinary Meeting of Council, has been included in the carryover budget as detailed in the Finance Report within this business paper, bringing the total funding available for 2023/24 to $252,361.   The Annual Grants Program 23/24 funding priorities continued to focus on areas within the Local Government Area that have high levels of social and community disadvantage. The Annual Grants Program application period opened on Monday 27 February 2023 and closed on Monday 1 May 2023. This report provides details regarding the Rural Halls category for 2023/24.

 

 

Recommendation That Council approve the successful applications for the Rural Halls category of the 2022/23 Annual Grants Program as detailed in the report totalling $25,000.

 

The Annual Grants Program 2023/24 consists of ten grant categories: Community Programs & Projects; Recreational & Community Facilities; Neighbourhood & Rural Villages; Rural Halls; Arts, Culture & Creative Industries; Local Heritage; Events; Environment; Youth Programs & Projects; and Small Business.

 

Each category is reported as a separate report to allow councillors to consider pecuniary or non-pecuniary interests in each report and annual grants category. An overall total of 119 applications were received for assessment in the Annual Grants Program 2023/24, with $252,361 available inclusive of the 2022/23 uncommitted funds of $35,361 and an additional $15,000 to the Events category that was endorsed at the 26 June 2023 Ordinary Meeting of Council.

 

The total amount of funding requested by the community across all categories was $752,993.58. All categories in the Annual Grants Program 2023/24 were oversubscribed except for the Environment and Youth Programs & Projects categories.

 

A total of seven applications were received in the Annual Grants Program 2023/24 –Rural Hall category. Applications were assessed with the panel comprising of a Councillor, independent community representatives and staff. Panel members were Councillor Richard Foley, Council’s Facilities Management Coordinator, and an independent community representative, Tony Powell.

 

Of the seven applications received a total of $60,041.35 was requested with $25,000 available. Out of these applications, four applications were successful, either fully funded or part funded, three applications were unsuccessful. The total amount of unallocated funds is $0. The following table details the successful applications received. A list of unsuccessful applicants has been provided under separate cover to Councillors.

 

Organisation Name	Project Description	Funding Requested	Funding Approved	Reason for Part Funding
Collingullie Soldiers Memorial Hall	Painting of interior of community hall	$9,820.00	$3,085.45	Part funding due to funds available in a competitive category. A project with clear objectives & outcomes. Applicant indicates they are willing to accept part funding.
Brucedale Hall – Auspice, Senior Revenue Accountant	Upgrades to the kitchen area to increase overall use of the facility	$8,829.10	$8,829.10	Detailed application with clear objectives and outcomes.
Mangoplah District Sports & Community Development Fund Inc.	To rewire the hall; to upgrade all electricity boxes and lines to make it safe and to cut down on electricity bills and make the hall usage into the future more sustainable.	$10,000.00	$10,000.00	Detailed application with clear objectives and outcomes.
Ladysmith Memorial Hall Inc	Painting of the internal walls.	$10,000.00	$3,085.45	Part funding due to funds available in a competitive category. A project with clear objectives & outcomes. Applicant indicates they are willing to accept part funding.
	Total	$38,649.10	$25,000.00

 

POL 078 – Financial Assistance Policy.

 

The Environment

Objective: Our built environment is functional, attractive and health promoting

Improve the facilities of our spaces and places

 

N/A

Extensive advertising and media communication was undertaken to promote the Annual Grants Program 2023/24 on all Council platforms. A community engagement workshop was held on 15 March 2023. Staff proactively contacted community networks to promote the annual grants program and to provide assistance in the preparation of applications.

 

Mail

Traditional Media

Community Engagement

Digital

Rates notices insert

Direct mail

Letterbox drop

Council news

Media release

Media opportunity

TV/radio advertising

One-on-one meeting(s)

Community meeting(s)

Stakeholder workshop(s)

Drop-in session(s)

Survey/feedback form(s)

Connect.Wagga

Email newsletter

Social media

Website

Inform

Consult

Involve

☒

☒

☒

☒

☒

Collaborate

Other methods (please list specific details below)

 

 

 

 

1.

ANNUAL GRANTS PROGRAM 2023-24- Unsuccessful Applicants - Rural Halls This matter is considered to be confidential under Section 10A(2) of the Local Government Act 1993, as it deals with: commercial information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed, prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it. - Provided under separate cover

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 17 July 2023

RP-7

 

RP-7               Annual Grants Program 2023/24 - Arts, Culture & Creative Industries

Author:         Janice Summerhayes 

         

 

Summary:

Council’s Annual Grants Program 2023/24 consists of ten grant categories: Community Programs & Projects; Recreational & Community Facilities; Neighbourhood & Rural Villages; Rural Halls; Arts, Culture & Creative Industries; Local Heritage; Events; Environment; Youth Programs & Projects; and Small Business. The program offers the opportunity for individuals, community groups and organisations to apply for funding for a range of programs and activities across the Local Government Area.   The total amount of funding available in the 2023/24 financial year is $202,000. The 2022/23 remaining uncommitted funds including COVID impacted projects that did not proceed total $35,361. This sum along with an additional $15,000 toward the Events category that was endorsed at the 26 June 2023 Ordinary Meeting of Council, has been included in the carryover budget as detailed in the Finance Report within this business paper, bringing the total funding available for 2023/24 to $252,361.   The Annual Grants Program 23/24 funding priorities continued to focus on areas within the Local Government Area that have high levels of social and community disadvantage. The Annual Grants Program application period opened on Monday 27 February 2023 and closed on Monday 1 May 2023. This report provides details regarding the Arts, Culture & Creative Industries category for 2023/24.

 

 

Recommendation That Council approve the successful applications for the Arts, Culture & Creative Industries Category of the Annual Grants Program 23/24 as detailed in the report totalling $35,361.00 which includes the carryover of 2022/23 category funds.

 

The Annual Grants Program 23/24 consists of ten grant categories: Community Programs & Projects; Recreational & Community Facilities; Neighbourhood & Rural Villages; Rural Halls; Arts, Culture & Creative Industries; Local Heritage; Events; Environment; Youth Programs & Projects; and Small Business.

 

Each category is reported as a separate report to allow councillors to consider pecuniary or non-pecuniary interests in each report and annual grants category. An overall total of 119 applications were received for assessment in the Annual Grants Program 2023/24, with $252,361 available inclusive of the 2022/23 uncommitted funds of $35,361 and additional $15,000 to the Events category that was endorsed at the 26 June 2023 Ordinary Meeting of Council.

 

The total amount of funding requested by the community across all categories was $752,993.58. All categories in the Annual Grants Program 2023/24 were oversubscribed except for the Environment category.

 

A total of nineteen applications were received in the Annual Grants Program 2023/24 – Arts, Culture & Creative Industries category. Applications were assessed with the panel comprising of a Councillor, independent community representatives and staff.

 

Panel members were Councillor Mayor Dallas Tout, Council’s Cultural Officer, and an independent community representative, Alice Peacock.

 

Of the nineteen applications received a total of $105,466.25 was requested with $35,361 available. Out of these applications, ten applications were successful, either fully funded or part funded. Nine applications were unsuccessful.

 

The total amount of unallocated funds is $0. The following table details the successful applications received. A list of unsuccessful applicants has been provided under separate cover to Councillors.

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 17 July 2023

RP-7

 

 

Organisation Name	Project Description	Funding Requested	Funding Approved	Reason for Part Funding
Joel Markham – Auspice, Eastern Riverina Arts	A photography exhibition that will explore the mysteries that permeate our experience of life. To be exhibited at The Curious Rabbit in Wagga Wagga during the month of November 2023.	$4,000.00	$2,000.00	Part funding due to funds available in a competitive category. A project with clear objectives & outcomes. Applicant indicates they are willing to accept part funding.
Wagga Wagga Community Band	The purchase of new stands and a trolley, to negate the need to borrow this equipment and have access to a common music stand for all members. The Music stands and trolley would be available to other groups for performance or practice events.	$5,500.00	$2,750.00	Part funding due to funds available in a competitive category. A project with clear objectives & outcomes. Applicant indicates they are willing to accept part funding.
Wagga Wagga Bonsai Society Inc.	Free public workshops and demonstrations facilitated by internationally trained Australian bonsai artists.	$6,759.50	$2,573.00	Part funding due to funds available in a competitive category. A project with clear objectives & outcomes. Applicant indicates they are willing to accept part funding.
HTZ Investments Pty Ltd.	A mural on the back of the new hotel on Forsyth Street, in full public view from Tongaboo Lane. This artwork is a collaboration between Gamilaroi artist Debbie Wood and local artist Maggie Deal.	$7,500.00	$7,500.00	Fully funded. Detailed application with clear objectives and outcomes.
Shelan Khodedah – Auspice, Multicultural Council Wagga	Local writer is writing a book documenting the experiences of a local Yazidi community member who was captured and held by Isis. This will be the first book written within Australia documenting these experiences. The launch event will be an immersive experience and sights, sounds and smells, and the publication will become a valuable resource, copies of which will be donated to the Wagga Wagga City Library and The Museum of the Riverina.	$4,310.30	$4,107.00	Part funding due to funds available in a competitive category. A project with clear objectives & outcomes. Applicant indicates they are willing to accept part funding.
Mary Potter Nursing Home	Installation of a colourful mural on the walls of the internal courtyard garden.  Residents and staff will be involved in the design of the mural.	$2,500.00	$2,500.00	Fully funded. Detailed application with clear objectives and outcomes.
Riverina Woodworkers Club Inc.	Purchase of new dust extraction system to cater for the increased levels of activity in the club, for the health and wellbeing of members.	$755.00	$755.00	Fully funded. Detailed application with clear objectives and outcomes.
Riverina Conservatorium of Music	Musicians who play concert band instruments are invited to this weekend of workshops and masterclasses to educate, stimulate, and upskill. Musicians will experience the mentorship of professional and visiting artists/tutors as well as performing with professional musicians and conductors in large ensembles and small sectional sessions. The festival will finish with a free public concert on the Sunday, involving all festival attendees.	$2,500.00	$2,500.00	Fully funded. Detailed application with clear objectives and outcomes.
The Wired Lab	Led by the Wiradjuri and Indigenous communities of the Eastern Riverina region. A series of two-day Wagga Wagga LGA based workshops. Workshop content will be oriented around: - Refining natural material collection methods and weaving practices, - Preservation and conservation considerations to ensure the longevity of fibre-based artworks.	$7,500.00	$5,000.00	Part funding due to funds available in a competitive category. A project with clear objectives & outcomes. Applicant indicates they are willing to accept part funding. Funding to go toward delivery of 2 x 2 - day workshops at Ngurra Youth Hub, Ashmont and one rural village in the Wagga Wagga LGA
Eastern Riverina Arts	Craft: The dirty word will be held at The AMBO Gallery during March 2024. Running over International Women’s Day, this exhibition will engage local female artists and will explore crafts’ ongoing association with the feminine.	$7,500.00	$5,676.00	Part funding due to funds available in a competitive category. A project with clear objectives & outcomes. Applicant indicates they are willing to accept part funding.
	Totals	$48,824.80	$35,361.00

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 17 July 2023

RP-7

 

 

Additional funding of $10,361 to increase the 2023/24 Arts, Culture & Creative Industries category has been funded from 2022/23 uncommitted funds from COVID impacted projects that did not proceed.

POL 078 – Financial Assistance Policy

Community Place and Identity

Objective: Our community are proud of where we live and our identity

Provide services and facilities that make Wagga Wagga a centre for arts and culture

N/A

Extensive advertising and media communication was undertaken to promote the Annual Grants Program 2023/24 on all Council platforms. A well-attended community engagement workshop was held on 15 March 2023. Council staff proactively contacted community networks to promote the annual grants program and to provide assistance in the preparation of applications.

 

Mail

Traditional Media

Community Engagement

Digital

Rates notices insert

Direct mail

Letterbox drop

Council news

Media release

Media opportunity

TV/radio advertising

One-on-one meeting(s)

Community meeting(s)

Stakeholder workshop(s)

Drop-in session(s)

Survey/feedback form(s)

Connect.Wagga

Email newsletter

Social media

Website

Consult

Involve

☒

☒

☒

☒

☒

Collaborate

 

 

 

1.

ANNUAL GRANTS PROGRAM 2023-24 - Unsucessful Applicants - Arts, Culture & Creative Industries This matter is considered to be confidential under Section 10A(2) of the Local Government Act 1993, as it deals with: commercial information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed, prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it. - Provided under separate cover