Agenda of Ordinary Meeting of Council

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.

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:

· Financial sustainability

· Climate

· Public services

· Trust and participation

· Clarity of purposes e.g. a lack of clarity of decision making and role for councils as compared to other levels of govt and community.

· General comments in regards to the devolution of policing and other services to local government in the UK

· Fiscal devolution needed so councils can be funded properly.

· Identified need for councils to harness the civic energy rather than just be a service deliverer.

· 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

· Census: 640,000 people who were homeless or paying more than 30% housing cost.

· Community Housing Industry website has LGA specific info on the 640,000 people.

· Cost of building housing is higher than the business model of 25% of people’s income for affordable housing.

· Made the point that with the housing issue it is not the cost of what needs doing but the cost if nothing is done at all.

· Reminded conference of the cost of NOT building affordable housing.

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.

Financial Implications

N/A

Policy and Legislation

Code of Meeting Practice

Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy (POL 025)

Councillor Induction and Professional Development Policy (POL 113)

Link to Strategic Plan

Community leadership and collaboration

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

Our leaders represent our community

Risk Management Issues for Council

N/A

Internal / External Consultation

N/A

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

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

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

Report

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

Proposed Revised Budget result for 2023/24, as at 17 July 2023 - (Surplus) / Deficit

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

*Budget Variation*	*Amount*	*Funding Source*	*Net Impact* *(Fav)/ Unfav*
*4 – Community Place and Identity*
Sundown Sessions	$24K	Federal Government Grant Funding ($24K)	Nil
The Wagga Wagga Civic Theatre has been successful in securing Federal funding for a live music program named ‘Sundown Sessions’ through the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, and the Arts - Live Music Australia Fund Round 6. Sundown Sessions is a live music program featuring contemporary artists and performances. All Sundown Session performances will take place in the Upper Foyer/Balcony area of the Civic Theatre with an early evening start time during April 2024. The program will feature mid-career Australian artists that have not previously toured to Wagga Wagga. Estimated Completion: 30 June 2024 Job Consolidation Number: 22409
Mosquito Management	$55K	NSW Health Grant ($55K)	Nil
Council has been successful in securing NSW Health grant funding for the purchase of mosquito educational resource handbooks. Wagga Wagga City Council will facilitate the purchase and processes in conjunction with the Public Health Unit. Estimated Completion: 30 June 2024 Job Consolidation Number: 22332
*5 – The Environment*
Glenfield Drain & Flowerdale Storage Flood Mitigation Study	$32K	Department of Planning & Environment (DPE) Grant ($21K) Stormwater Levy Reserve ($11K)	Nil
Council has been successful in securing additional DPE Floodplain Management Program grant funding for the Glenfield Drain and Flowerdale storage flood mitigation works feasibility study 2021/FMP/0024. The additional funds are required due to a change in the scope of works to include an increase in detention basins as part of the study. The grant is 2:1 funding with Council’s portion proposed to be funded from the Stormwater Levy Reserve. This will bring the total project budget to $187K. Estimated Completion: 30 June 2024 Job Consolidation Number: 21795
Geotechnical Testing	$100K	Capital Renewal Reseal Program ($100K)	Nil
Funds are required to implement a forward budget for Geotechnical Engineering due to the lag time in testing, results, and design reports. It is proposed to fund the variation from savings in the 2022/23 reseals budget that are included in the 2022/23 Works In Progress and Budget Revotes Report. Estimated Completion: 30 June 2024 Job Consolidation Number: 22412
			$0K

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:

Institution and Type	Amount	Investment Term	Interest Rate	Comments
CBA (AA-) Term Deposit	$2M	12 months	3.68%	This term deposit was redeemed on maturity and funds used to invest in a new 12-month Australian Unity term deposit and a new 5-yr Bendigo-Adelaide Bank covered floating rate note (as below).
NAB (AA-) Term Deposit	$2M	2 years	0.65%	This term deposit was redeemed on maturity and funds reinvested in a new 12-month ING Bank term deposit (as below).

Institution and Type

Amount

Investment

Term

Interest

Rate

Comments

CBA (AA-) Term Deposit

$2M

12 months

3.68%

This term deposit was redeemed on maturity and funds used to invest in a new 12-month Australian Unity term deposit and a new 5-yr Bendigo-Adelaide Bank covered floating rate note (as below).

NAB (AA-) Term Deposit

$2M

2 years

0.65%

This term deposit was redeemed on maturity and funds reinvested in a new 12-month ING Bank term deposit (as below).

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

Institution and Type	Amount	Investment Term	Interest Rate	Comments
Australian Unity Bank (BBB+) Term Deposit	$1M	12 months	5.44%	The Australian Unity rate of 5.44% compared favourably to the rest of the market for this term. The best rate on offer for this term was 5.54%, with this bank not selected due to counterparty compliance issues.
ING Bank (A) Term Deposit	$2M	12 months	5.62%	The ING Bank rate of 5.62% compared favourably to the rest of the market for this term. The next best rate for this term was 5.60%.
ING Bank (A) Term Deposit	$2M	12 months	5.65%	The ING Bank rate of 5.65% compared favourably to the rest of the market for this term. The best rate on offer for this term was 5.70%, with this bank not selected due to counterparty compliance issues.
Bendigo-Adelaide Bank Covered (AAA) Floating Rate Note	$1M	5 years	BBSW +115bps	Council’s independent Investment Advisor advised this Floating Rate Note represented good value with a potential grossed-up value of +130-140bps after 4 years.

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

I hereby certify that all of the above investments have been made in accordance with the provision of Section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993 and the regulations there under, and in accordance with the Investments Policy adopted by Council on 29 November 2021.

Carolyn Rodney

Responsible Accounting Officer

Policy and Legislation

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

Link to Strategic Plan

Community Leadership and Collaboration

Objective: We have strong leadership

Outcome: We are accountable and transparent

Risk Management Issues for Council

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

Internal / External Consultation

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.

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

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

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

A project with clear objectives with a focus on community education and engagement.

Total

$43,648.00

$30,000.00

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Organisation Name

Project Description

Funding Requested

Funding Approved

Reason for Part Funding

Michael Linsell

Reinstatement of original heritage fencing to residence at the corner of Best and Tompson Streets (78 Tompson). A post and rail with chain wire mesh fence option. Two new decorative gates to be fitted and the existing gates to be restored and repurposed.

$5,000.00

$2,500.00

Part funding due to funds available in a competitive category. A project with clear objectives & outcomes that meets the priorities of this category. Applicant indicates they are willing to accept part funding.

Mackenna Powell

Remediation works to roof of existing building at 38 Fitzmaurice Street, Wagga Wagga, the former School of Arts.

$15,500.00

$2,500.00

Anglican Parish of Wagga Wagga

To protect the belfry and the contents of the bell tower of St John's church building involving the Construction and installation of louvres on the four openings of the belfry. The new louvres will be fixed to the internal walls. The louvres will be positioned so the maximum weather protection for the belfry and peal of bells.

$8,515.00

$4,500.00

Madeline Clark

A NSW heritage listed building, built with sand stock stone in 1849. The overall building seems relatively stable, however directly above the front doorway a large crack has emerged. This crack is compromising the structural stability of the building. The project aims to rectify risk of collapse by means of stone masonry to fix crack OR install a permanent steel support.

$7,500.00

$3,500.00

Mitchell Daniher

Restoration works to the original building masonry sign to one of Wagga Wagga's original corner stores "The Park Store 1925 " and replacing the roofing material on the verandah to its original material.

$3,721.00

$2,500.00

Totals

$40,236.00

$15,500.00

Organisation Name

Project Description

Funding Requested

Funding Approved

Reason for Part Funding

Bidgee Strawberries & Cream

Berries and Tunes - A series of events throughout the year supporting emerging creatives and other local partnerships

$7,500.00

$6,000.00

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 Country Club Ltd

The Women's Pro Am is a two-day event where golf professionals and amateurs play together. The goal for 2024 is to host 50 visiting professionals.

$7,500.00

$5,500.00

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.

Lake Road Veterinary Hospital

Wagga Dog Day Out event to promote the city's commitment to animal welfare and give animal industries in the region the opportunity to promote their services, provide educational opportunities and raise community awareness as to services that are available locally.

$7,500.00

$6,000.00

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.

Regional Disability Advocacy Services (RDAS)

A Dance Party to celebrate International Day of People with Disability. In 2023 the event to be held at the RSL Club which can accommodate 350 guests from Wagga Wagga and surrounding townships.

$6,500.00

$5,500.00

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.

Women in Business Wagga Wagga

To engage a high-profile speaker who is a leader in her field to share their experience and insights with our members and the community of Wagga Wagga. The aim of this event is to build the capacity amongst the working women of Wagga Wagga.

$7,500.00

$6,000.00

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.

Pastorale

An outdoor dining event in Wagga Wagga, to coincide with the annual Gears and Beers weekend.

This will be a long dinner style event on the Baylis/Fitzmaurice St Bridge, aiming for approximately 200 attendees to enjoy a 3 course degustation meal prepared by the Pastorale team.

$7,500.00

$6,000.00

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.

Totals

$44,000

$35,000

Organisation Name

Project Description

Funding Requested

Funding Approved

Reason for Part Funding

Wagga Wagga Urban Landcare Group

Paint signs on the gutter drains around Glenfield indicating that litter going down these drains ends up in Flowerdale Lagoon. And conduct workshop/s with school children from the surrounding area of Glenfield of the importance of Flowerdale Lagoon. Liaise with Charles Sturt University’s platypus researcher, Joanne Connelly.

$3,000.00

Detailed application with clear objectives and outcomes.

Wagga Wagga Business Chamber

'Building a Better Future - Our Path to Net Zero’ engage with Rewiring Australia or someone of a similar status as guest speaker to address all things sustainable, but with a key focus on small to medium business owners achieving lower Net Zero Emissions and how this can be achieved by making some simple changes.

$3,500.00

Detailed application with clear objectives and outcomes.

Totals

$6,500.00

Organisation Name

Project Description

Funding Requested

Funding Approved

Reason for Part Funding

Wagga Par 3 and Driving Range

Construction of an undercover BBQ area at Wagga Par 3, free for the community to use. Cemented seating area with electric BBQs, table, and chairs, under a skillion roof awning.

$10,000.00

$8,100.00

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.

Oura Progress Ass.

Construct a staging ground that will be located between the existing tennis courts and the Hall and will be used for a variety of purposes by different user groups in the Oura district. The RFS require a staging ground in the event of a large fire. The Oura RFS staging ground will consist of a large 6m x 12m undercover area with an attached 6m x 4m storage shed.

$10,000.00

Detailed application with clear objectives and outcomes that meet the priorities of this category.

Wagga Wagga School of Arts

Purchase & install new auditorium seating, as current seating is not fit for purpose.

$9,909.00

$8,090.00

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.

Southern Inland Rugby Union

Supply and erect a weatherproof shelter for the gatekeepers at Conolly Park, Tolland

$2,260.00

Detailed application with clear objectives and outcomes that meet the priorities of this category.

North Wagga Australian Football and Netball Club Inc.

Upgrade the sound/entertainment system currently used within the McPherson Oval clubrooms, North Wagga. This will improve the capacity and quality of this venue to hold community group events for not only the Football/Netball Club but also the Wagga City Cats who utilise the venue during the cricket season and the various organisations that hire the venue for use such as Baptist Care.

$1,550.00

Detailed application with clear objectives and outcomes that meet the priorities of this category.

Total

$33,719.00

$30,000.00

Organisation Name

Project Description

Funding Requested

Funding Approved

Reason for Part Funding

Alphabet Soup Youth Group – Auspice, Eastern Riverina Arts

The Wear It Purple Disco (WIP) 2023, young LGBTQIA+ identifying youth to be celebrated during a four hour long disco following Wear It Purple Day; a national day to recognise and to raise awareness against homophobia and transphobia against youth and to celebrate and uplift their identities.

$5,000.00

$4,175.00

Detailed application with clear objectives and outcomes that meet the priorities of this category. Recommended to be fully funded minus GST.

Out Social

'Rainbow Screening Night' will screen a movie with queer representation for the community and their allies. Information and hand-outs will be available for safety planning and support for the community to anyone who needs it. To be hosted on International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia

(IDAHOBIT) as it is a meaningful day in the community.

$5,000.00

$4,209.00

Detailed application with clear objectives and outcomes that meet the priorities of this category. Recommended to be fully funded minus GST.

Unique State Art Space – Auspice, Eastern Riverina Arts

Print > Press > Play is a project facilitated by printmaker and registered art therapist Elaine Camlin and Art Factory local artist Annelise Triulcio at Unique State Art Space. A total of six workshops will run over 6 weeks starting in mid-January 2024. There will be three themes, Pokémon, Lego, and Disney, each providing space for two groups, 7-15 years, and 16- 24 years.

$7,337.00

$5,000.00

Detailed application with clear objectives and outcomes that meet the priorities of this category. Recommended to funded to the maximum amount in this category which is $5,000.00 toward the delivery of 4 workshops.

Total

$17,337.00

$13,384.00

Organisation Name

Project Description

Funding Requested

Funding Approved

Reason for Part Funding

Interior Construction Pty Ltd

Purchase of iPads to increase customer service experience on site at surrounding rural locations and advance the business with use of technology solutions.

$6,000.00

$1,934.00

Part funding due to funds available in a competitive category. A project with clear objective and outcomes. Applicant indicates they are willing to accept part funding.

Sew me School of Fashion and Design

To install front access doors to improve accessibility and street appeal.

$2,299.00

$2,069.00

A project with clear objective and outcomes.

Recommended funding minus GST.

Bidgee Strawberries and Cream

To purchase a strawberry cutting machine to improve efficiency in removing the fruit Caylex and to cut fruit to increase product offering and business expansion plans.

$6,000.00

A project with clear objectives and outcomes to implement innovative machinery to support growth of business.

Rewild

Purchase of new equipment to increase efficiency and sustainability.

$7,500.00

4,216.00

Part funding due to funds available in a competitive category. A project with clear objective and outcomes. Applicant indicates they are willing to accept part funding to be spent on the purchase of one fridge and one labelling machine.

Riverina Seafood Market

To establish the first fresh seafood market in the region.

$7,500.00

$1,000.00

Part funding due to funds available in a competitive category. A project with clear objective and outcomes. Applicant indicates they are willing to accept part funding.

Pastorale

Purchase and install a custom built and commercial grade wood-fired pizza oven.

$7,500.00

$3,291.00

Part funding due to funds available in a competitive category. A project with clear objective and outcomes. Applicant indicates they are willing to accept part funding.

Bloss Floristry & Design

Utilising an existing vacant space within The Press cafe and retro-fitting it to accommodate a floristry business with the addition of plumbing and water access plus adequate refrigerator to store flowers.

$4,986.00

$4,487.00

A project with innovative objectives and outcomes that will support a network of small business owners.

Recommended funding minus GST.

Zana Aerial Dance Academy

Purchase of new custom-made costumes to increase professionalism and expand business.

$3,958.70

$3,958.00

A project with clear objective and outcomes to support the expansion plans of this small business.

Chris and Louise Blanchard

Addition of two new offerings to the business:

1. A second-hand book offering

2. Hot-desk facility and board room hire service

$5,000.00

$1,000.00

Part funding due to funds available in a competitive category. A project with clear objective and outcomes. Applicant indicates they are willing to accept part funding.

Paint Place Wagga

To purchase equipment to allow the expansion of stock holding capabilities and improve the overall customer experience in store.

$7,400.00

$4,500.00

Part funding due to funds available in a competitive category. A project with clear objective and outcomes. Applicant indicates they are willing to accept part funding.

Little Black Duck Homewares

Increase visibility of Aboriginal handmade products at local and regional market stalls with the purchase of a market stall fit out that is easily transportable, visually appealing and built by another small business.

$7,500.00

$5,045.00

Totals

$65,643.70

$37,500.00

No.

Name of Applicant

Requested Subsidy

Anglican Parish for Wagga Wagga

$500.00

Carevan Wagga

$250.00

ErinEarth Unlimited

$1,000.00

The MenShed Wagga Wagga

$1,000.00

Riding for the disabled

$1,000.00

South Wagga Anglican church

$300.00

Rotary Club of South Wagga Wagga Inc

$400.00

Wagga Wagga Baptist Church

$250.00

Eastern Riverina Arts

$844.00

Total

$5,544.00

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

RP-15

RP-15 DRAFT COMMUNITY NZE 2050 ROADMAP

Author: Carly Hood

Executive: Janice Summerhayes

Summary:

The Draft Community Net Zero Emission (NZE) 2050 Roadmap (draft Roadmap) has been developed in response to Council’s resolution to develop a NZE 2050 Community Roadmap that outlines and provides clarity regarding Councils role in the community achieving the net zero emissions targets set by the NSW Government and endorsed by Council. The roadmap provides guidance to the whole community on emission reduction pathways they may take to contribute to the NZE targets.

Recommendation

That Council:

a endorse the Draft Community Net Zero Emission (NZE) 2050 Roadmap to be placed on public exhibition for a period of 42 days from 21 July 2023 and invite public submissions until 31 August 2023

b receive a further report summarising feedback and submissions

Report

At its Ordinary Meeting on 11 April 2022 Council resolved the following:

That Council:

a receive and note the report

b endorse an interim community net zero emissions target of 50% reduction in community emissions by 2030 as detailed in this report

c develop a roadmap that outlines Councils role in the community achieving both the 2030 and 2050 net zero emissions targets

d endorse staff to facilitate 6 monthly forums comprising of representatives of relevant community and business groups with State Government agencies to discuss the approach to community net zero emissions

e approve the budget variation/s as detailed in the Financial Implications section of the report

Introduction

Council has a key role in helping to achieve the NZE goals through demonstrating leadership, raising awareness and encouraging action at a local level. In developing the Wagga Wagga Net Zero Emissions 2050 Community Roadmap (Roadmap) it is not intended that Council would become responsible for the delivery of the community target or funding specific objectives and programs of the State Government.

Reaching NZE by 2050 requires action by governments, business and community. What we collectively do now will limit the increase in global temperatures. The transition to net zero emissions will vary in different places due to the social, environmental and economic challenges and opportunities in those places. Local councils are uniquely placed to incorporate their knowledge of an area, planning expertise, local networks and collaboration skills to work towards a low emissions future that is sensitive to local values and opportunities.

The draft Roadmap will give members of our community an insight into the pathways that are available for them to engage in climate solutions. It identifies a list of pathways that everyone in our Local Government Area (LGA) needs to consider for us to achieve net zero targets.

The draft Roadmap is not a prescriptive, detailed document but instead encourages our community to engage in as many pathways as possible which they feel are realistic and relevant for their circumstances and note that this may change over time.

The document also outlines and provides clarity regarding Councils role in the community achieving both the 2030 and 2050 net zero emissions targets set by the State, whether it be through advocacy, education or leading by example and undertaking direct action at the corporate level.

Initial consultation and development

It is important that the draft Roadmap reflects the values and community understanding of the issue in our LGA. The draft Roadmap document has been informed by research, benchmarking and reviewing other regional community net zero plans and conducting an initial multi-tiered consultation process.

The following organisations have been involved in two NZE forum events to provide input into the development of the draft Roadmap:

Charles Sturt University	NSW Biodiversity Conservation Trust
Climate Action Wagga	NSW Department of Primary Industries
Climate Rescue of Wagga	NSW Farmers Federation
Committee 4 Wagga	NSW Office of Environment and Climate Change
Essential Energy	Regional Development Australia – Riverina
Farmers for Climate Action	Regional Growth & Development Corporation (SAP)
Kildare Catholic College	Riverina Local Land Services
Kurrajong Recycling	Riverina Water County Council
Mawang Gaway	Southern NSW Innovation Hub - CSU
Murrumbidgee Landcare Inc	Transport for NSW
Murrumbidgee Local Health District	Wagga Wagga Business Chamber
	Wagga Wagga Fridays for Future

In addition to this staff have also consulted with relevant experts, along with targeted businesses and non-government organisations for example TEYS Australia, Riverina Sustainable Food Alliance, individual farmers and experts from other Council’s and industry organisations like Climate Council and Beyond Zero Emissions.

The open Community consultation phase to date has included:

• 2 facilitated sessions in the Council Committee Meeting Room

• 5 drop-in sessions in the Wagga Wagga Library

• 4 direct school sessions with Kildare Catholic College, The Riverina Anglican College, Indie School and Kooringal High School

• An online survey for the whole community promoted through:

• Media Release

• Council News article

• Council Facebook posts

• Council Website

• Online Youth Forum

• Sustainable Wagga eNewsletter.

From this phase of the community consultation Council received feedback from a total of 180 people including many detailed suggestions and comments.

Financial Implications

The draft Roadmap is a high-level guiding document for the whole community and does not rely solely on Council to implement the actions. Council has a key role to play in providing relevant, timely and accurate information to our local community so that households, businesses and industry can take up the various initiatives and funding opportunities that are most applicable to them. This can occur at current service levels without any implications to the Long-Term Financial Plan. Any increase to this effort would require additional funds and this would be requested through normal budget processes.

Policy and Legislation

Climate Change (Emissions Targets) Bill 2021

NSW Net Zero Plan Stage 1: 2020–2030

NSW Waste and Sustainable Materials Strategy 2041

NSW Electric Vehicle Strategy 2021

NSW Electricity Strategy 2019

Link to Strategic Plan

The Environment

Objective: Wagga Wagga is sustainable, liveable, and resilient to the impacts of climate change

Support and empower our community to reach 50% reduction in emissions compared to 2005 levels by 2030 and to achieve Net Zero Emissions by 2050

Risk Management Issues for Council

A number of risk management issues were identified and have been actively managed.

A summary of these risks are as follows:

- Lack of engagement from the community

- Inability to meet everyone’s expectations

- Inability to resource and deliver on plans

Internal / External Consultation

Significant consultation has occurred to develop the draft Roadmap. During the public exhibition period Council staff will seek feedback on the draft Roadmap over a 42 days period through a variety of mediums.

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)
Online Youth Forum

Attachments

1 ⇩.

Wagga Wagga Community Net Zero Emissions 2050 Roadmap

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

No.	Name of Applicant	Requested Subsidy $
1	Anglican Parish for Wagga Wagga	$500.00
2	Carevan Wagga	$250.00
3	ErinEarth Unlimited	$1,000.00
4	The MenShed Wagga Wagga	$1,000.00
5	Riding for the disabled	$1,000.00
6	South Wagga Anglican church	$300.00
7	Rotary Club of South Wagga Wagga Inc	$400.00
8	Wagga Wagga Baptist Church	$250.00
9	Eastern Riverina Arts	$844.00
	Total	$5,544.00