Agenda of Ordinary Meeting of Council - Monday, 27 October 2025

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 27 October 2025

RP-1

Reports from Staff

RP-1 Renewable Energy Developments: Protections for Prime Agricultural Land and Community Benefit Policy

Author: Fiona Hamilton

Summary:

This report responds to Council’s resolution of 21 July 2025 (25/199) directing the General Manager to provide an update on the proposed planning amendments to protect prime agricultural land and establish a community benefit policy for electricity generating and storage works.

Recommendation

That Council receive and note the updates provided in this report.

Report

Background

Council at its meeting on 21 July 2025 resolved (25/199) on the Motion of Councillors R Foley and T Koschel to:

a endorse in principle the proposed planning reforms outlined in the body of this report

b direct the General Manager to immediately commence work on drafting proposed changes to the Wagga Local Strategic Planning Statement, Local Environmental Plan and Development Control Plan, aimed at achieving the protections identified in this report

c note that any proposed planning instrument amendments will be subject to statutory processes and consultation

d request the General Manager treat this as a matter of priority and provide a progress report at an Ordinary Council Meeting in October 2025

e write to the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure to seek support for fast-tracking these local planning protections and ensuring they are considered in State and Regionally Significant Development assessments

f investigate options for a Community Benefit Policy for Electricity Generating and Storage Works

g direct the General Manager to develop a policy which encourages recycling of renewal energy technologies at either the Special Activation Precinct or the Gregadoo Waste Management Centre to the exclusion of other land

As noted at the meeting, Council’s strategic planning framework is anchored by the LSPS Planning for the Future: Wagga Wagga 2040, which establishes the long-term vision for land use and development across the Local Government Area (LGA). Adopted in 2021, the LSPS identifies the protection of valuable agricultural land and the avoidance of land fragmentation as key planning priorities (Principle 11).

The strategic direction of the LSPS is reinforced through Council's more recent Community Strategic Plan, adopted in April 2025, which includes:

• Goal G08: We plan sustainably to protect and enhance the natural environment

o Strategy 8.2: Protect high quality agricultural land

o Strategy 8.5: Plan for land use that respects rural amenity and supports landholders and the economy.

Despite this strong strategic intent, the existing statutory framework does not provide sufficient mechanisms to prevent incompatible land uses, particularly in relation to large-scale renewable energy projects on productive agricultural land.

At this meeting Council also resolved to investigate options for a Community Benefit Sharing Policy for Electricity Generating and Storage Works to ensure that host communities share equitably in the benefits of renewable energy development.

Following the 21 July 2025 Ordinary Meeting of Council staff consulted with both Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) and Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) to seek guidance and feedback on the proposed approach. The feedback is summarised below.

DPIRD feedback:

· DPIRD recommended the preparation of a Rural Lands Strategy (RLS) to assist in better identifying valuable agricultural land, what industries are current and emerging, their location and what protective requirements may be useful.

· The current approach selects one issue (electricity generating works) when it could address other uses that impact agricultural land, including residential, commercial, and industrial development.

· DPIRD noted that the specific projects that have raised this concern within the community would not be impacted by the proposed changes, as those projects are proposed on Class 4 land.

DPHI feedback:

· The initial draft WWLEP clause should reference LSC Class 1-3 and BSAL lands, to delineate between ‘prime agricultural land’ and other agricultural land.

· Consent criteria wording and options.

· The Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 requires consideration of section 4.15 for State Significant Development. The section 4.15 heads of consideration include the LEP and DCP. Therefore, should Council amend the planning controls in the WWLEP and DCP, these would be considered as part of regional and state significant development assessments.

By progressing amendments to the LSPS, WWLEP and DCP, Council ensures that the protection of prime agricultural land and the management of renewable energy development impacts are formally embedded within these statutory instruments. This, in turn, means they will be given appropriate weight under of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 in all relevant development assessments, including State and Regionally Significant Development.

This report serves as a progress update to Councillors on these activities:

1. Draft amendment to the Local Strategic Planning Statement.

2. Draft amendment to the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010

3. Review of and updates to the DCP.

4. Drafting of a Community Benefits Sharing Policy.

1. Draft LSPS Amendments

Background

To strengthen recognition of Wagga Wagga’s agricultural base and provide a clearer strategic framework for future land use decisions, a draft amendment to the LSPS has been prepared to introduce Principle 12: Growth protects and values agricultural land and rural productivity.

This proposed principle will formally acknowledge the significance of important agricultural land, in alignment with the NSW Government's Renewable Energy Planning Framework, particularly the Large-Scale Solar Energy Guideline (August 2022), which identifies “important agricultural land” and encourages site selection that avoids this land wherever possible.

At present, the NSW Government has only published specific land use and assessment guidance for large-scale solar energy projects, wind energy and transmission projects. Equivalent guidelines for other renewable energy technologies such as hydrogen or battery storage have not yet been released. As such, Council has relied on the principles and assessment framework within the Large-Scale Solar Energy Guideline as the most contemporary and comprehensive reference available.

The NSW Large-Scale Solar Energy Guideline (the Guideline) states that "while the cumulative risk to both rural land and important agricultural land is relatively low, we must balance the need for renewable energy with the need to safeguard important agricultural land for food and fibre production and to ensure that any use of this land would not have a significant impact on the local and regional agricultural industry".

The Guideline defines important agricultural land as "land mapped as biophysical strategic agricultural land,…land of LSC classes 1 to 3 and farmland mapped as state or regionally significant on the north coast". To ensure consistency with the Guideline, this report adopts the term ‘important agricultural land’ to collectively refer to land previously described as prime or valuable agricultural land.

It is noted that while The Guideline defines important agricultural land as land of LSC classes 1-3 it also states that "where a large-scale solar energy project is located on moderate capability land (LSC Class 4), the applicant must verify the agricultural quality and capability of the land. They should then use the results of this verification process (which should include a soil survey) to design the layout of their project and to avoid impacts on productive land".

The Land and Soil Capability (LSC) assessment scheme evaluates the physical capability of land to sustain different land uses. Class 1 represents land suitable for most agricultural uses, while Class 8 is suitable only for very low-impact uses such as conservation.

Source: The land and soil capability assessment scheme – second approximation, State of NSW and Office of Environment and Heritage

The LSC dataset can be viewed using eSPADE (NSW’s soil spatial viewer), which contains a suite of soil and landscape information including soil profile data. Many of these datasets have hot-linked soil reports. An alternative viewer is the SEED Map; an ideal way to see what other natural resources datasets (e.g. vegetation) are available for this map area.

BSAL mapping identifies land with high-quality soil and water resources capable of supporting sustained agricultural productivity. BSAL areas in Wagga Wagga are largely along the Murrumbidgee River.

The mapping for both LSC and BSAL is available on the State Government’s Sharing and Enabling Environment Data (SEED) platform.

An overview of the proposed amendment to the LSPS is provided below as an interim update to Council and will require further refinement before progressing further.

Purpose of the amendment

The purpose of this amendment to the LSPS is to provide a clear and binding mechanism to prevent renewable energy developments on sites where community members suffer adverse impacts.

Key features of Principle 12

· Protects agricultural production, rural amenity, and community well-being;

· Provides strategic guidance to inform WWLEP and DCP amendments;

· Protects agriculture land uses, economic growth, and resilient local communities with economies deriving income from agriculture.

Draft Principle 12: Growth protects and values agricultural land and rural productivity

Important agricultural land underpins Wagga Wagga’s economy, rural identity and community wellbeing. Protecting this valuable resource is essential to sustaining local food and fibre production, supporting rural employment and maintaining the unique character of our rural landscape.

Agriculture contributed more than $330 million to the Wagga Wagga economy in 2020/21, driven by strong cereal, livestock, wool and hay production. This demonstrates the sector’s enduring importance to the prosperity and resilience of the local government area.

This sector not only supports local livelihoods but also plays a vital role in the strength and stability of the national economy, contributing significantly to Australia’s food security, exports and regional development.

As growth, climate variability and emerging industries reshape rural areas, Council will aim to ensure that important agricultural land, specifically Land and Soil Capability (LSC) Classes 1–3 and Biophysical Strategic Agricultural Land (BSAL), is protected from incompatible or conflicting land uses, including energy generation and storage infrastructure. Council will also require verification of agricultural quality and land capability for proposals on moderate capability land (LSC Class 4) to inform project design and avoid impacts on productive areas in accordance with the NSW Large-Scale Solar Energy Guideline.

Council recognises that the transition to renewable energy is critical to a sustainable future. However, renewable energy projects must be strategically located to avoid important agricultural land, prevent land use conflict and maintain the social and environmental values of rural communities where possible. The same is also valid in the development and establishment of other residential, commercial, and industrial development.

The protection of important agricultural land from energy generation and storage developments and other incompatible development will also safeguard the visual, environmental and lifestyle qualities that make rural living desirable in the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area. Maintaining appropriate separation between energy developments and rural settlements, lifestyle lots and villages will be a key component of this approach.

In applying this principle, Council aims to:

· Protect important agricultural land of LSC Classes 1–3 and BSAL classification from incompatible development (where it has the statutory power to do so);

· Promote sustainable land management and continued agricultural productivity;

· Guide renewable energy development to suitable locations that do not adversely impact important agricultural land or unrelated residences on neighbouring properties;

· Reinforce the role of rural zones in supporting primary production and rural amenity; and

· Integrate rural land protection into broader sustainability, biodiversity and resilience initiatives.

Council will embed this principle through amendments to the WWLEP and DCP to ensure that energy generation, storage, and other incompatible development on important agricultural land is minimised and appropriately located and that land use decisions reinforce the economic, environmental, and cultural importance of agriculture. Similarly, these policies will also provide protections to unrelated neighbouring residences to ensure these developments are separated from unrelated residences by significant distances.

2. Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010 Draft Amendment

Background

An amendment to the WWLEP 2010 is being drafted to take into account proposed Principle 12 of the LSPS and the rural land protection principles in the Large-Scale Solar Energy Guideline (August 2022) and feedback provided by DPHI.

The agricultural land use principles in the Large-Scale Solar Energy Guideline (August 2022) include:

· Applicants should consider the agricultural capability of the land during the site selection process.

· Applicants should avoid siting solar energy projects on important agricultural land as far as possible.

· Agricultural assessment should be proportionate to the quality of the land and the likely impacts of a project.

· Mitigation strategies should be adopted to minimise any significant impacts on agricultural land.

The amendment proposes introducing a new Part 7 clause to manage Electricity Generating Works in Rural Areas. The clause applies to all rural land in the LGA classified as LSC 1–3 or BSAL and provides additional protection for LSC class 4 land.

The clause strengthens protections for Wagga Wagga’s important agricultural land through the following key provisions:

· To ensure important agricultural land (LSC 1–3 and BSAL) is protected for ongoing food and fibre production and from incompatible or inappropriate land uses.

· Development consent must not be granted for electricity generating or energy storage works on land identified as LSC 1–3 or BSAL

· If a large-scale solar energy project is proposed on or adjacent to important agricultural land or located on moderate capability land (LSC Class 4), the applicant must verify the agricultural quality and capability of the land. They should then use the results of this verification process (which should include a soil survey) to design the layout of their project and to avoid impacts on important agricultural land.

· Where an energy generation or storage project must be located on or near agricultural land, a significant distance separation buffer should be established to minimise potential land use conflict.

It is noted that electricity generating works means a building or place used for the purpose of:

a. making or generating electricity, or

b. electricity storage.

A copy of the draft clause is attached to this report for context, noting the draft clause will be subject to further changes as it is revised prior seeking Council’s endorsement to prepare a Planning Proposal.

3. Community Benefits Policy Update

Background

The drafting of a Community Benefit Sharing Policy in response to community concerns regarding the social and environmental impacts of renewable energy developments has commenced.

The draft policy aims to ensure that renewable energy projects deliver tangible, equitable and enduring benefits to host communities, through infrastructure improvements, amenity enhancements and community-led projects.

Objectives

The objectives of this draft policy will be to promote benefit sharing associated with the development of State Significant, Regionally Significant and Local Development Renewable Energy Projects in the Wagga Wagga City Council Local Government Area (LGA) that:

• Secure off-site benefits for the community so that renewable energy development delivers a future sustainable net community benefit;

• Ensure that the wider community share in the benefits resulting from renewable energy development in the LGA;

• Ensure that the costs and benefits of renewable energy development will be equitably distributed within the community and inter-generationally;

• Ensure that community benefit outcomes are determined through appropriate governance processes which include community representation.

Proposed Benefit Thresholds

The State Government released its Benefit Sharing Guideline (November 2024) for large scale renewable energy projects.

The Federal Government has also released guidelines for Community Engagement and Benefit for Electricity Transmission Projects (July 2024). While focused on transmission lines the document is instructive in principles relating to community benefit sharing schemes.

In line with the Government Guidelines, the proposed minimum community benefit threshold for WWCC is:

• $850 per megawatt of capacity per annum for solar energy development for the life of the development (including future modified or recommissioned projects)

• $1050 per megawatt of capacity per annum for wind energy development for the life of the development (including future modified or recommissioned projects)

• $150 per megawatt of capacity per annum or 1% of the capital value whichever is the greater, for energy storage developments (including pumped hydro)

Note: Amounts above are in 2023 dollars and will be adjusted annually for CPI.

Projects that do not deliver community benefits above this threshold are likely to be considered not in the public interest.

Generation and storage projects in Renewable Energy Zones (REZ) pay access fees if they connect to new network infrastructure projects. These access fees help pay for the new network and contribute to dedicated funds for community and employment-related initiatives in each region. EnergyCo is coordinating this funding under a Community and Employment Benefit Program, which will invest millions of dollars into regional communities. Unlike the neighbour or local community benefits, these programs can deliver regional-scale benefits across multiple local government areas. Given Wagga Wagga is not in a REZ, consideration is being given to an additional loading on the community benefit thresholds above.

Wagga Wagga City Council (WWCC) will use the Planning Agreement provisions of the EP&A Act 1979 to deliver the objectives of this policy. A Planning Agreement is a voluntary agreement between Council and a developer, who has made a Development Application or planning proposal, under which the developer is required to dedicate land free of cost; pay a monetary contribution; provide any other material benefit to be used for or applied towards a public purpose.

4. Development Control Plan Updates (DCP)

The DCP review will complement the LSPS and WWLEP amendments by introducing detailed development controls to manage land use compatibility, amenity and environmental outcomes for renewable energy projects.

Early drafting has commenced, with content to include:

· Performance-based criteria aligned with the Large-Scale Solar Energy Guideline (2022);

· Minimum separation distances between energy developments and dwellings; and

· Design standards for visual, traffic and construction management impacts.

Next Steps

To progress the proposed planning response and policy updates, the following next steps are recommended:

Item	Task	Timeframe
LSPS Amendment	Advise and review with DPHI.	6 months
	Stakeholder consultation with key agencies to ensure alignment with current policy direction and frameworks including: · Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure. · Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. · NSW Renewable Energy Zone Delivery Team.
	Prepare public exhibition collateral.
	Undertake public exhibition of the proposed amendment, per the EP&A Act 1979 and the Community Engagement Strategy.
	Make relevant updates to the LSPS based on submissions and report the finalised LSPS to Council for adoption.
WWLEP Amendment	· Collaborate with DPHI on proposed amendment. · Prepare planning proposal to introduce an additional Part 7 Clause. · Submit planning proposal to DPHI for Gateway Determination. · Pending Gateway Determination, undertake public exhibition of the proposed amendment. · Consider submissions received and make relevant updates to the proposed amendment. · Finalisation and gazettal.	12-18 months
DCP update	· Prepare the draft DCP amendments and schedule with broader DCP project. · Undertake public exhibition of the proposed DCP amendments. · Consider submissions received and make relevant updates to the proposed DCP amendment. · Report the updated DCP to Council for adoption.	12-18 months
Community Benefit Sharing Policy	· Draft proposed Policy. · Undertake internal review. · Report to Council meeting · Public exhibition · Endorsement	6-9 months

Financial Implications

The preparation of the Planning Proposal, LSPS amendments and associated community engagement activities will require internal staff resources and where necessary external specialist input. Cost will be managed within the existing Strategic Planning budget.

Policy and Legislation

• Wagga Wagga Local Strategic Planning Statement – Planning for the Future: Wagga Wagga 2040

• Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010

• Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan 2010

• Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act 1979)

• NSW Large Scale Solar Energy Guideline (August 2022)

• NSW Benefit-Sharing Guideline (November 2024)

• National Guidelines for Community Engagement and Benefit for Electricity Transmission Projects (July 2024).

Link to Strategic Plan

Growing

Agriculture and agribusiness focus

Protect high quality agricultural land

Risk Management Issues for Council

Without clearer policy direction and development controls, renewable energy or other incompatible developments may be approved on or adjacent to important agricultural land.

Without updated WWLEP and DCP provisions, development assessments will rely on subjective interpretation and inconsistent application of planning principles.

If Council does not proceed with amendments to the LSPS, WWLEP, and DCP to strengthen the protection of important agricultural land and guide the siting of renewable energy and storage developments Council’s planning framework would remain inconsistent with its own strategic intent expressed in the LSPS (Principle 11) and Community Strategic Plan objectives to protect high-quality agricultural land.

Continued public concern that Council is not adequately protecting important agricultural land or ensuring community benefit from renewable projects.

Internal / External Consultation

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD).

Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI).

Internal stakeholder engagement.

Attachments

1 ⇩.

Draft LEP Amendment

Section	Issue Identified	Update Applied
Authority	References to Sections 360 and 362 of the Local Government Act 1993 were incorrect – only Section 355 is relevant to committee establishment.	Legislative reference corrected to Section 355 only.
Membership	The previous Terms of Reference were ambiguous regarding voting rights and listed several Council staff positions as members, creating uncertainty about the balance between elected representatives, community members and staff participation.	Updated to establish a core membership model comprising the Mayor, three Councillors, up to five community members, and the General. Other Council staff may attend by invitation to provide technical or specialist advice but are not members of the Committee. Only core members are counted for quorum purposes.
Quorum	The previous Terms of Reference defined quorum as a “majority of voting members,” but voting categories were unclear.	Revised to specify that a quorum comprises a majority of the appointed core members of the Committee. This ensures balanced participation between Councillors and community representatives while maintaining Council oversight.
Conflict of Interest	Clause permitted conflicted members to remain present after declaring an interest –inconsistent with Council’s Code of Conduct.	Updated to require any member who declares a pecuniary or significant non-pecuniary conflict to leave the meeting for that item, in accordance with the Code of Conduct.
Observers (MPs)	MPs were previously listed within membership, blurring their formal role and implying decision-making power.	Clarified that MPs or their delegates may be invited as observers only, with no voting or quorum status.
Reporting	The Terms of Reference required a “Final Report by 18 May 2026,” an arbitrary deadline not aligned to operational milestones.	Updated to require regular reporting to Council following each meeting and a final summary report prior to dissolution.
Correspondence (Resolution 25/317 f)	The resolution directs that all airport correspondence be referred through the Committee, which could delay operational communications with Defence and NSW Ambulance.	Clarified that correspondence will be tabled through the Committee for visibility, while operational engagement continues under existing delegations to avoid disruption.
Terms of Office	The previous clause did not specify when member appointments would expire.	Updated to align with POL117 - Appointment of Organisation, Community and Individual Citizen Members to Council Committees, confirming that all member terms conclude upon Committee dissolution or at the next local government election.
Formatting and Consistency	The previous Terms of Reference did not align with Council’s current corporate template or style conventions.	Re-formatted into Council’s standard Terms of Reference design and numbering structure, ensuring consistency across Section 355 Committees.

Section

Issue Identified

Update Applied

Authority

References to Sections 360 and 362 of the Local Government Act 1993 were incorrect – only Section 355 is relevant to committee establishment.

Legislative reference corrected to Section 355 only.

Membership

The previous Terms of Reference were ambiguous regarding voting rights and listed several Council staff positions as members, creating uncertainty about the balance between elected representatives, community members and staff participation.

Updated to establish a core membership model comprising the Mayor, three Councillors, up to five community members, and the General. Other Council staff may attend by invitation to provide technical or specialist advice but are not members of the Committee. Only core members are counted for quorum purposes.

Quorum

The previous Terms of Reference defined quorum as a “majority of voting members,” but voting categories were unclear.

Revised to specify that a quorum comprises a majority of the appointed core members of the Committee. This ensures balanced participation between Councillors and community representatives while maintaining Council oversight.

Conflict of Interest

Clause permitted conflicted members to remain present after declaring an interest –inconsistent with Council’s Code of Conduct.

Updated to require any member who declares a pecuniary or significant non-pecuniary conflict to leave the meeting for that item, in accordance with the Code of Conduct.

Observers (MPs)

MPs were previously listed within membership, blurring their formal role and implying decision-making power.

Clarified that MPs or their delegates may be invited as observers only, with no voting or quorum status.

Reporting

The Terms of Reference required a “Final Report by 18 May 2026,” an arbitrary deadline not aligned to operational milestones.

Updated to require regular reporting to Council following each meeting and a final summary report prior to dissolution.

Correspondence (Resolution 25/317 f)

The resolution directs that all airport correspondence be referred through the Committee, which could delay operational communications with Defence and NSW Ambulance.

Clarified that correspondence will be tabled through the Committee for visibility, while operational engagement continues under existing delegations to avoid disruption.

Terms of Office

The previous clause did not specify when member appointments would expire.

Updated to align with POL117 - Appointment of Organisation, Community and Individual Citizen Members to Council Committees, confirming that all member terms conclude upon Committee dissolution or at the next local government election.

Formatting and Consistency

The previous Terms of Reference did not align with Council’s current corporate template or style conventions.

Re-formatted into Council’s standard Terms of Reference design and numbering structure, ensuring consistency across Section 355 Committees.

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 27 October 2025

RP-4

RP-4 RESPONSE TO NOTICE OF MOTION - KHAKI WEED

Author: Carly Hood

Executive: Janice Summerhayes

Summary:

This report is in response to the August 25 Notice of Motion related to local eradication of the widespread khaki weed (Alternanthera pungens). While full eradication is not considered feasible, the report outlines management actions that can help to reduce populations, minimise spread and protect high-value areas.

Recommendation

That Council

a receive and note the report

b approve the budget variations as detailed in the Financial Implications section of the report

Report

Council at its meeting of 25 August 2025 resolved on the Motion of R Foley and J McKinnon (25/263) as follows:

That Council:

a recognises the current outbreak of Khaki Weed across Council-owned public lands and recreational areas within the LGA as a rapidly expanding and urgent biosecurity threat requiring immediate action

b notes that under the Biosecurity Act 2015 (NSW), Council has a General Biosecurity Duty (section 22) to take all reasonable and practical measures to minimise the risk of the weed spreading on land under its control, and that failure to act may constitute a breach of this duty, exposing Council to regulatory enforcement action and reputational damage

c strongly encourages all residents and businesses to take prompt Khaki Weed control action on private property to prevent reinfestation

d requests a report be provided in October that outlines;

i. Council’s current program/plan and operational budget to address Khaki Weed on Council-owned land and recreational areas

ii. any additional targeted programming that could take place, including additional budget requirements; and

iii. details of an immediate public awareness campaign.

e request a report be provided by the end of the 2025 calendar year, that outlines Council’s overarching approach to the management of invasive animal and weed species across the organisation, including:

i. existing or proposed plans, strategies or policies

ii. workforce capacity and resourcing (e.g. Weed Officers) and any issues encountered in these roles

iii. processes and practices for identification, containment and treatment on road easements, Crown land and other Council-managed lands

iv. processes for emergency management situations, or assistance to other agencies in emergencies

v. training available to field staff

vi. collaboration and community engagement activities

vii. education and knowledge-building for residents, landowners and stakeholders; and

viii. methods to measure, monitor and evaluate progress or improvement in biosecurity outcomes

This report is in response to parts a,b,c and d of the above resolution. Part e will be subject to an additional report in December.

Weed prioritisation in NSW

Weeds are a major threat to our natural environment and our economy. The NSW Government estimates that invasive weeds cost our agricultural industry around $1.8B a year in lost productivity and control costs. Weed and pest control in NSW is governed by the Biosecurity Act 2015 and coordinated through strategic regional arrangements.

Within NSW, there are three levels of priority given to weeds. This includes:

· State priority weeds

· Regional priority weeds

· Local priority weeds.

Within the State and Regional priorities, weed species are separated into four levels of control classes:

· Prevention

· Eradication

· Containment

· Management.

All listed weeds have undergone a thorough risk assessment process to determine their legal control status. This process includes understanding each weed's:

· Current distribution

· Potential distribution

· Capacity to spread

· Capacity to manage the weed (for both government and private land holders)

· Costs associated with managing the weed.

The weed invasion cost curve (shown below) is used in biosecurity management to describe how the economic and ecological costs of a weed invasion change over time and how these costs relate to the stage of invasion and management response. The cost of effectively controlling a weed species increases dramatically as the invasion progresses, while the likelihood of success decreases.

Governments and land managers use this model to justify funding for biosecurity and surveillance programs, and strategic prioritisation is given to the lower end of the curve as it represents better value for money.

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Under the Riverina Regional Strategic Weed Management Plan 2023–2027, Khaki weed is listed as a ‘Local priority’ species of concern. More than 50 other species found on this list are common, widespread weed species such as Patterson’s curse, Bathurst Burr and Privet. Being the lowest priority tier means these weeds do not have a specific control category but are governed instead by a ‘general biosecurity duty’.

This means that all land managers should attempt to manage weeds to the extent that is ‘reasonably practical’. As the local control authority, each Council has discretion as to how much emphasis they place on managing weed species considered to be a ‘Local priority’ weed. Because Khaki weed is considered widespread and abundant throughout NSW, it is not easily eradicated and requires long-term management. The economic return for asset protection and long-term management is quite low, as per the invasion cost curve.

Current actions to address Khaki weed

Council has two distinct teams that work in the weed control space. One is predominantly focused on Council’s role as a regulatory body or ‘local control authority’ undertaking inspections on private properties, public reserves, waterways, saleyards, nurseries and other high-risk pathways. This team also undertakes targeted control works (which may be mechanical removal, spraying, burning or biocontrol) on State and Regional priority weeds. When resource availability allows, widespread weeds may also be targeted, depending on seasonal requirements. This includes spraying for Khaki weed at roadside rest-stops and high pedestrian traffic areas such as some bus stops and naturestrips that are known to have large infestations of Khaki weed.

To help minimise the transportation and spread of weeds, ‘weed hygiene stations’ have been installed in several places along the Wiradjuri Walking Trail to encourage users to clean their shoes and bike tyres of seeds to prevent the further spread of weeds.

In the general management of Council open spaces (parks, reserves, sportsgrounds, roadsides) Council has a team that undertakes routine spraying, targeting problem weeds in these areas to reduce impacts to neighbouring landholders, inconvenience to the public and to enhance the health and quality of the grassed areas. This spraying program includes the use of selective broadleaf herbicides, Khaki weed being one of many weeds that this selective spraying manages. This team has one full-time spray operator that undertakes the majority of weed control activities on council-managed land. Contractors are also used during busy peak times for weed spraying.

Between these two teams, over 10,000 hectares is managed with around $550,000 spent annually for weed management on Council-managed land. In doing so, Council is fulfilling its ‘general biosecurity duty’ obligations.

Over the summer period, Council’s spray operator and contractors are spraying for both Khaki and Cathead (Tribulus terrestris). This can be difficult to time perfectly, as the Khaki weed usually develops and seeds a few weeks prior to the Cathead. In the past, staff have prioritised Cathead control due to the spiny, hard fruit that can easily puncture tyres and be very painful to stand on. Common practice has been to hold off spraying until early December when the Cathead has germinated. Unfortunately, this can result in some Khaki seeding by the time all areas have been addressed.

Feasibility of eradicating Khaki weed

Council has an estimated 500ha or more of land that may be affected by Khaki weed. To eradicate the weed species, a long-term targeted weed-spraying program would need to be completed. This would require Council’s spray operator and an additional three full-time contractors to undertake an intensive regime of spraying for a four-week period each November for at least 10 years to ensure its eradication.

To achieve eradication, a multi-phase application method is used over the four weeks. This includes a pre-emergent herbicide that inhibits the growth, development and maturation of undesirable plants and a post-emergent herbicide to capture any weeds that still emerge following the first application.

Resourcing constraints

The chemical cost for this is estimated at $275,000 for pre-emergent and post-emergent chemicals and $60,000 in labour costs, including council staff overtime and contractor costs for a four-week period. It should be noted that these figures are per year, acknowledging costs would decrease eventually as infestation decreases, however, labour and chemical prices will also increase each year, therefore the estimated cost for a 10-year eradication program is in the range of $2.5 - $3M. This figure is inclusive of the existing weed spray operator’s salary as allocated in the recurrent annual budget.

The highly intensive weed spraying program within the four-week growing period would increase current staff workload with overtime required and fatigue management to be accounted for. This would also divert funds and labour from all other non-selective spraying of sound mounds, active travel paths and edges and prevent work on other widespread weeds including Blackberry, St. John’s Wort, Silverleaf Nightshade and Bathurst Burr that are also generally sprayed during this season.

Council routinely uses regional contractors to assist with weed control, but these also have constraints with increased seasonal workload and availability.

Feasibility of targeted control for Khaki weed

Given the high level of financial and labour resourcing required to eradicate Khaki weed, staff recommend a more measured approach. A smaller-scale spraying program within 50ha of known affected areas and high-traffic pathways, such as public reserves in Glenfield Park, Rawling Park, Settlers Village, Emblem Park and Wiradjuri Reserve would be more realistic and achievable. This would require the existing Council spray operator and support from one full-time contractor during the four-week period.

The targeted method would still consist of multiple years of application of the pre- and post-emergent herbicide use, but over the smaller 50ha area. This is estimated at $27,500 for pre-emergent and post-emergent chemicals and $15,000 in labour costs for staff overtime and contractor labour. This figure is inclusive of the existing weed spray operator’s salary as allocated in the recurrent annual budget, as detailed in the finance section of this report.

It should be noted that these figures are per financial year, acknowledging costs would decrease as infestation decreases, however labour and chemical prices will increase each year. Where possible, other weeds that are co-located and have the same control window and treatment method would of course be targeted at the same time, but some other areas or weed types may still be missed during this period.

Public awareness and education

Council staff conduct various activities throughout the year to engage with the community and provide education and advice on weeds. This includes:

· One-on-one discussions with landholders during private property inspections

· Having a permanent stall at the Henty Machinery Field Days

· Partnering with the Agile Mobile Library locations on village visits

· Attending with One Tree for Me events and National Tree Day to support the community with advice on weed identification and control options

· Use of Council’s social media pages, Council News, Sustainable Wagga eNewsletter, and community notice boards to promote weed identification, control and weed hygiene stations.

These extension activities are broadly based and do not tend to target a specific weed. Council staff propose running an additional awareness campaign to assist with the identification of khaki weed and encourage the community to control it on their land in addition to the work Council is undertaking to manage khaki weed on its own land. This could be scheduled to coincide with the start of the growing season for Khaki weed at the start of November and be accommodated within current budgets.

Poor machinery and equipment hygiene is one of the main ways weeds spread, therefore Council staff also propose to develop an updated awareness campaign focused on improving hygiene practices of machinery and equipment such as mowers and excavators, to reduce the spread of weed materials. This information would be targeted at both Council operations and other entities that undertake activities in the road reserve such as Essential Energy, Riverina Water, Transgrid and other works contractors.

There is also an opportunity install up to eight additional ‘weed hygiene stations’ across the city at locations such as Rawlings Park, Silvalite Reserve, Lake Albert and other high traffic areas along the Wiradjuri walking trail. These stations provide both an educational element and a practical means of encouraging users to clean their shoes and bike tyres of seeds to prevent the further spread of weeds. This activity is estimated at a one-off cost of $18,000 ($2,250 per station, including signage) and as detailed in the finance section of this report.

Financial Implications

The recommended option consists of completing the targeted Khaki weed control on 50ha of Council-managed land, costing approximately $42,500 per annum. Utilising existing budgets for spray operations, the proposed targeted method would require an additional $10,000 per financial year to be spent on additional chemical, labour and contractor costs.

The proposed annual increase of $10,000 can be funded through the ‘Parks Operations’ overall 2025/26 cost centre initially and allocated for the remainder of the LTFP during the 2026/27 budget process.

The eight additional weed hygiene stations have an estimated cost of $18,000. This would be a one-off capital request considered as part of the 2026/27 budget process with installation to occur in 2026/27 financial year if successful.

Policy and Legislation

· NSW Biosecurity Act 2015

· Riverina Regional Strategic Weed Management Plan 2023-2027

Link to Strategic Plan

Sustainable

Protect and manage biodiversity

Manage the biodiversity of our natural landscapes and provide education to support the conservation of our environment for future generations.

Risk Management Issues for Council

Although Council currently satisfies its general biosecurity duty, if it does choose to allocate additional resources to control Khaki, it could create an expectation that Council will also provide the same budget and resources to other general biosecurity duty weeds, or alternatively, the perception that Council is ignoring other priority weeds in favour of its focus on Khaki weed.

Internal / External Consultation

Cross-directorate internal consultation has occurred with Infrastructure, Parks Operations and Finance to develop this report.

Attachments

Riverina Regional Strategic Weed Management Plan 2023-2027 - Provided under separate cover.

Option 1 (Monday’s)	Option 2 (Wednesday’s)	Time	Comments
19 January 2026	21 January 2026	6:30pm	Australia Day - 26 January 2026
9 February 2026	11 February 2026	6:30pm
23 February 2026	25 February 2026	6:30pm
9 March 2026	11 March 2026	6:30pm
23 March 2026	25 March 2026	6:30pm
13 April 2026	15 April 2026	6:30pm	School Holidays – 7 April – 17 April 2026
27 April 2026	29 April 2026	6:30pm	Floodplain Risk Management Conference scheduled for 21 – 24 April
11 May 2026	13 May 2026	6:30pm	2026 ALGWA Conference dates not released to date – generally early May
25 May 2026	27 May 2026	6:30pm
9 June 2026 (Tuesday)	10 June 2026	6:30pm	King’s Birthday – 8 June 2026
22 June 2026	24 June 2026	6:30pm	NGA date not released to date – generally late June Consider adoption of DPOP and Budget
13 July 2026	15 July 2026	6:30pm	School Holidays - 6 July to 17 July 2026
27 July 2026	29 July 2026	6:30pm
10 August 2026	12 August 2026	6:30pm
24 August 2026	26 August 2026	6:30pm
7 September 2026	9 September 2026	6:30pm	LGNSW Water Management Conference date not released to date – generally mid-September
21 September 2026	23 September 2026	6:30pm
12 October 2026	14 October 2026	6:30pm
26 October 2026	28 October 2026	6:30pm
16 November 2026	18 November 2026	6:30pm	LGNSW 2026 Conference date not released to date -usually mid/late November Consider adoption of financial statements
30 November 2026	2 December 2026	6:30pm
14 December 2026	16 December 2026	6:30pm

Option 1
(Monday’s)

Option 2 (Wednesday’s)

Time

Comments

19 January 2026

21 January 2026

6:30pm

Australia Day - 26 January 2026

9 February 2026

11 February 2026

6:30pm

23 February 2026

25 February 2026

6:30pm

9 March 2026

11 March 2026

6:30pm

23 March 2026

25 March 2026

6:30pm

13 April 2026

15 April 2026

6:30pm

School Holidays – 7 April – 17 April 2026

27 April 2026

29 April 2026

6:30pm

Floodplain Risk Management Conference scheduled for 21 – 24 April

11 May 2026

13 May 2026

6:30pm

2026 ALGWA Conference dates not released to date – generally early May

25 May 2026

27 May 2026

6:30pm

9 June 2026 (Tuesday)

10 June 2026

6:30pm

King’s Birthday – 8 June 2026

22 June 2026

24 June 2026

6:30pm

NGA date not released to date – generally late June

Consider adoption of DPOP and Budget

13 July 2026

15 July 2026

6:30pm

School Holidays - 6 July to 17 July 2026

27 July 2026

29 July 2026

6:30pm

10 August 2026

12 August 2026

6:30pm

24 August 2026

26 August 2026

6:30pm

7 September 2026

9 September 2026

6:30pm

LGNSW Water Management Conference date not released to date – generally mid-September

21 September 2026

23 September 2026

6:30pm

12 October 2026

14 October 2026

6:30pm

26 October 2026

28 October 2026

6:30pm

16 November 2026

18 November 2026

6:30pm

LGNSW 2026 Conference date not released to date -usually mid/late November

Consider adoption of financial statements

30 November 2026

2 December 2026

6:30pm

14 December 2026

16 December 2026

6:30pm

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 27 October 2025

RP-9

RP-9 Capital Works Program Reset

Author: David Galloway

General Manager: Peter Thompson

Summary:

The purpose of this report is to reset the Capital Works Program, so it better aligns with allocated resources and delivery timeframes.

Recommendation

That Council:

a receive and note the contents of the report

b adopt the attached revised Capital Works Program

Report

At the Council Meeting on 23 June 2025, Councillors approved the Delivery Program 2025-2029 and Operational Plan 2025/26 allocating the following budgets for one off and recurring capital works.

Capital works	2026	2027	2028	2029	Delivery Program Total Budget
One off projects	87,100,363	84,170,199	29,019,040	22,686,128	$222,975,730
Recurrent programs	26,147,587	26,173,711	28,526,886	30,476,159	$111,324,343
Total	113,247,950	110,343,910	57,545,926	53,162,287	$334,300,073

Since the original Capital Works Program (CWP) budget was approved by Councillors the 2025 carry over process has been completed, and several new projects have been approved.

The approved Capital Works Program as at 30 September 2025 is detailed below.

Capital works	2026	2027	2028	2029	Delivery Program Total Budget
One off projects	$108,950,909	$85,880,328	$28,863,090	$22,679,193	$246,373,520
Recurrent programs	$35,291,788	$27,901,757	$29,096,694	$30,742,684	$123,032,923
Total	$144,242,692	$113,782,085	$57,959,784	$53,421,877	$369,406,438

At the completion of the carry over process it was determined that a review of the CWP would be appropriate.

A pragmatic approach to the review has been taken with the aim to further increase the accuracy of the program across the 4-year Council term. The proposed changes are detailed in the financial implications section of this report.

A copy of the revised 10 Year One Off Capital Works Program is also attached (Attachment 1).

Proposed amendments

Following the reset process the revised CWP for 2025/26 – 2028/29 is detailed below.

Capital works	2026	2027	2028	2029	Delivery Program Total Budget
One off projects	$60,749,267	$103,004,739	$14,108,086	$24,467,317	$202,329,409
Recurrent programs	$35,329,769	$27,901,757	$29,096,694	$30,742,684	$123,070,904
Total	$96,079,036	$130,906,496	$43,204,780	$55,210,001	$325,400,313

Directorate	One off	Recurring	Total	%
Community	$307,699	$545,940	$853,639	0.89%
Econ, Bus and Workforce	$24,324,564	$978,357	$25,182,921	26.34%
Governance	$23,139,698	$1,206,872	$24,346,570	25.34%
Infrastructure	$12,977,303	$32,598,601	$45,575,904	47.44%
Total	$60,749,264	$35,329,769	$96,079,035

10 largest projects

The following table lists the 10 largest projects in the 2026 CWP, with their proposed revised budget (78% of the total delivery budget) and their actual expenditure as at 30 September 2025.

Top 10 Projects	$ Budget	$ YTD Actual	%	Status
Sthn Growth – Plumpton Road Nth	$7,957,570	$266,682	3%	Planning
Sthn Growth – Plumpton Road Sth	$7,883,688	$220,634	3%	Planning
Nth Growth Sewer Upgrades	$5,955,326	$571,918	10%	Planning
Lake Albert Water Sports and Events	$4,274,607	$1,851,196	43%	Execution
Active Travel – TT26	$3,993,821	$2,704,495	68%	Execution
Mates Gully Road	$3,769,137	$23,266	1%	Planning
GWMC – Land Acquisition	$3,632,445	$3,611,832	99%	Completed
Sewer Ashmont SPS	$3,116,614	$29,942	1%	Execution
GWMC Plant Shed	$2,326,750	$2,050,136	88%	Execution
Pine Gully Road Corridor	$1,902,139	$1,396,513	73%	Execution
Total	$44,812,097	$12,726,614	28%

10 largest projects – recurrent

The following table lists the 10 largest recurrent programs in the 2026 CWP (88% of the total delivery budget) and their actual expenditure as at 30 September 2025.

Top 10 Programs	Project Manager	$ Budget	$ YTD Actual	%
Plant & Equipment	Daniel Davey	$9,392,914	$2,874,423	30%
Pavement Rehab Program	Krishan Maharaj	$7,614,731	$194,252	2%
Sewer Mains Rehab Program	Ray Graham	$3,293,393	$855,890	26%
Reseal Program - Capital Renewal	Krishan Maharaj	$2,835,510	$52,095	1%
Gravel Resheets	Krishan Maharaj	$2,067,981	$97,271	4%
Replacement & Renewal of Sewer Plant, Pumps & Equipment	Ray Graham	$1,594,200	$471,585	29%
Corporate Hardware Capital Purchases	Reece Hamblin	$1,206,872	$244,616	20%
Heavy Patching Program	Krishan Maharaj	$1,130,289	$113,601	10%
Urban Asphalt Program	Krishan Maharaj	$1,040,040	$497	0%
Sewer Manhole Relining	Ray Graham	$900,541	$0	0%
Total		$31,076,476	$4,904,234	15%

Financial Implications

The proposed changes and their financial implications are detailed below.

Job No.	Project Title	Comments
12922	Glenfield Road Corridor Works - TT1	This project has been delayed due to Inland Rail works in the area. Result: Keep $88,681 in 2027 for planning and move $19m outside of the Delivery Program.
15083	Boorooma Street Slip Lane	This work has been rescheduled due to construction at Mates Gully Rd. Result: Move $289,341 out of 2026 to 2028.
15143	Oasis – Point of Sale	This project is being brought forward following the acquisition of Workout. Result: $115,000 added to the Delivery Program in 2026/27.
17742	Stormwater - Murray St Project	This project has been delayed due to Inland Rail works in the area. Result: Keep $200,000 in 2026 for planning and move $2.9m to 2028.
17866	Levee System Upgrade - North Wagga (1 in 20)	This project is contingent on grant funding. Result: move $7.4m out of 2027 to 2029.
18796	Northern Sporting Precinct	This project is subject to a feasibility review. Slight amendment to planning budget. Result: $213,336 moved from 2027 to 2028.
19545	RIFL Stage 2c	This project has been completed with surplus funds to be transferred to reserve pending final reconciliation. Result: $856,152 removed from CWP.
19601	Pine Gully Road Corridor Works - TT2	Construction of one of the elements of the project is underway. Bring forward funding to match delivery. Result: $1.3m brought forward to 2026.
19604	Gregadoo Road Corridor Works - TT7	Work is being done as part of Southern Growth. Move funding out to reflect delivery timeline. Result: $2.4m moved out of 2026 to 2027.
19628	Boorooma St Upgrade - TT28	This work has been rescheduled due to construction at Mates Gully Rd. Move project planning to the back of the Delivery Program. Result: $200,000 moved out of 2026 to 2028. $4.2m moved out of Delivery Program.
19647	Estella New Local Park	Subject to land availability. Result: No proposed changes, Exec report pending.
20799	Stores - Barcoding System/ Shelving	This project is on hold pending TechOne transition. Result: $30,979 moved out of 2026 to 2027.
21273	Lawn Cemetery Master Plan Stage 2A Works	Project is waiting on the completion of a revised Masterplan. Keep $100,000 planning and move the remaining to 2027. Result: $578,601 moved out of 2026 to 2027.
21777	Wiradjuri Walking Track Upgrade	Project is currently being reviewed. Proposal to go to Executive recommending how to progress with this project. Move funding outside of Delivery Program. Result: no change pending Exec report.
22330	Estella Road upgrade	This work has been rescheduled due to construction at Mates Gully Rd. No confirmed funding source for the project. Move outside of Delivery Program timeline. Result: $700,000 moved out of Delivery Program.
22491	RFS Humula Station Capital Works	RFS have confirmed works are now being completed by Public Works Result: $650,000 moved out of Delivery Program.
22492	RFS Aviation Station 2nd Storey	RFS have confirmed works are now being completed by Public Works. Result: $1m moved out of Delivery Program.
22493	RFS Lake Albert Station Capital Works	RFS have confirmed works are now being completed by Public Works. Result: $1.6m moved out of Delivery Program.
22494	RFS Forest Hill Station Capital Works	RFS have confirmed works are now being completed by Public Works. Result: $1.2m moved out of Delivery Program.
22495	RFS Oura Station Capital Works	RFS have confirmed works are now being completed by Public Works. Result: $900,000 moved out of Delivery Program.
22496	RFS Uranquinty Station Capital Works	RFS have confirmed works are now being completed by Public Works. Result: $800,000 moved out of Delivery Program.
22497	RFS Galore Station Solar Upgrade	RFS have confirmed works are now being completed by Public Works. Result: $40,000 moved out of Delivery Program.
23126	Southern Growth Area - Plumpton Road North	Project delivery cashflow has been revised. Result: $10,000,000 moved out of 2026 to 2027.
23127	Southern Growth Area - Plumpton Road South	Project delivery cashflow has been revised. Result: $10,000,000 moved out of 2026 to 2027.
24348	Harris Park Amenities Upgrade	Project is currently in delivery and will be completed this financial year. Bring forward full funding into 2026. Result: $873,790 added to 2026 program
24377	Blake Street Works in Kind	These works will not be completed in this timeframe. Result: $171,785 moved out of 2026 to 2027.
24721	Active Travel Pathway – Plumpton Road	Project delivery cashflow has been revised. Result: $2,446,208 moved out of 2026 to 2027.
28153	Oasis – 50 expansion joints	This work is not required on this timeline. Result: $79,790 moved out of 2026 to 2027.
28198	Oasis Energy Efficiency Upgrade (CEUF)	Project cashflow has been spread across 2026 - 2028 to better reflect commercial reality. Project delivery will be finalised by 30 June 2027 but cashflow will go across the year. Result: $3m moved out of 2026.
45049	LMC - Treatment of Re-use Water	Moved outside DP timeline as this will be resolved with LMC masterplan. Result: $353,912 moved outside the Delivery Program, waiting on Masterplan.
45096	LMC - New circulating road (partial)	$100,000 kept in this year for planning with the remaining balance moved outside DP timeline as this will be resolved with LMC masterplan. Result: $2.5m moved out of 2026 to outside the Delivery Program, waiting on Masterplan.
45121	LMC - Clean, fill and landscape all new works areas	$30K brought forward to this year as initial works have commenced. Result: Add $30,000 to 2026.
45124	LMC - Replace existing cattle/sheep delivery ramps	Moved outside DP timeline as this will be resolved with LMC masterplan. Result: $1.3m moved outside the Delivery Program, waiting on Masterplan.
45125	LMC – Refurbish office	Work was recently completed in this area so project is not needed on this timeline. Result: $350,000 moved out of 2027 to outside the Delivery Program, waiting on Masterplan.
45138	LMC - Hardstand	The need for this work is being reviewed considering the LMC Masterplan. Result: $2.25m moved out of 2026 to outside the Delivery Program, waiting on Masterplan.
50060	Sewer – Forsyth St	Project is recommended for removal. Result: $785k removed from 2026 CWP.
50199	Sewer - Elizabeth Avenue Forest Hill SPS22 - New Assets	Project is recommended for removal. Result: $1.2m removed from Delivery Program.
50447	Northern Growth Area – Sewer Upgrades	Project delivery cashflow has been revised. Result: $5,000,000 moved out of 2026 to 2027.
70135	GWMC - Gas Capture Network Expansion & Gas Powered Evaporator	$400k brought forward into this year to cover planning work. Remaining balance remains outside DP timeline as timing will be resolved by Masterplan. Result: $400k increase in 26 CWP.
70147	GWMC - Domestic Precinct (Transfer Station, Office Relocation, Roadworks)	Initial concept plan has been completed. $200K brought forward to cover planning. Result: $200k increase in 26 CWP.
70164	GWMC - Construction of a new Waste Cell	Current cell construction is behind schedule delaying this project. Result: $200,000 retained in 2026 for planning with $3m moved to 2027 for delivery.
70178	GWMC - Construction of a new Monocell (inc. operational budgets)	Current cell construction is behind schedule delaying this project. This will also include the deferral of the operational income and expenditure budgets. Result: $200,000 retained in 2026 for planning with $3.4m moved to 2027 for delivery.
70203	GWMC Tower Installation	This works has been held up by Transgrid construction. Result: Moved $200,000 to 2029.

Policy and Legislation

NSW Local Government Act 1993

Link to Strategic Plan

Regional Leadership

Good governance

Provide professional, innovative, accessible and efficient services.

Risk Management Issues for Council

Delivery Risk

Without resetting the Capital Works Program, there is a high likelihood of project slippage, caused by limited internal delivery capacity, external contractor availability and long-lead procurement items.

Attempting to maintain the current delivery schedule without adjustment increases the risk of non-completion within approved budget and timeframes, leading to carryovers and public dissatisfaction.

Financial Risk

Proceeding with an unadjusted capital program increases the risk of cost escalation due to inflation, supply chain delays, and contracting market pressure.

Misalignment between cash flow timing and grant funding milestones may create short-term funding pressure on Council's unrestricted cash position.

Reputational Risk

Failure to transparently manage community expectations regarding timing of capital delivery may result in negative public commentary, particularly for high-profile projects.

Community perception that projects are being “cut” rather than reset for planned delivery efficiency may generate reputational criticism unless clearly communicated.

Strategic Alignment Risk

Without a structured reset, there is a risk that unfunded or low-priority projects may continue to consume resources ahead of strategic priority projects, causing misalignment with Council’s adopted Delivery Program and Long Term Financial Plan.

Operational Capacity Risk

Continuing with the current capital works program schedule without adjustment may result in staff fatigue, contractor overextension and reduced quality assurance oversight, increasing the risk of defects, reworks and safety incidents.

Internal / External Consultation

Significant internal engagement has been undertaken to prepare this initial revised 10-year capital works program.

As this revision is being made in light of Councils internal delivery capacity, no external engagement is proposed.

Attachments

1 ⇩.	Capital Works Reset - One off projects
2 ⇩.	Capital Works Reset Recurrent Programs

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 27 October 2025

RP-11

RP-11 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT STRATEGY AND COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION PLAN

Author: Michael Casey

Executive: Scott Gray

Summary:

The draft Community Engagement Strategy has been reviewed, with a draft Community Participation Plan also developed and attached for public exhibition from 28 October to 25 November 2025. These documents outline how and when Council will engage with the community in decision-making processes and facilitate participation in planning matters. A further report will be presented following the exhibition period to address submissions and recommend adoption.

Recommendation

That Council:

a endorse the draft Community Engagement Strategy and draft Community Participation Plan and place on public exhibition for a period of 28 days from 28 October 2025 to 25 November 2025 and invite public submissions during this period:

b receive a further report following the public exhibition period:

i addressing any submissions made with respect to the draft documents

ii proposing adoption of both documents unless there are any recommended amendments deemed to be substantial and requiring a further public exhibition period

Report

Background

Local Government Act 1993 (the Act) Sec 8A (3) Community participation states “Councils should actively engage with their local communities, through the use of the integrated planning and reporting framework and other measures.”

The Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework (IP&R), demonstrated in Figure 1 below comprises a series of interrelated documents that together provide a rigorous, consistent approach to community planning across all NSW local councils, while also ensuring alignment with regional and state priorities.

The IP&R framework allows local councils to navigate these complexities in a meaningful and purposeful way and to:

· integrate community priorities into council strategies and plans

· support community and stakeholders to play an active role in shaping the future of their community

· articulate the community’s vision and priorities

· assign resourcing to support delivery of the vision and priorities, while also balancing aspirations with affordability

· maintain accountability and transparency by regular monitoring and reporting.

The IP&R framework also provides a pathway for elected representatives to:

· work directly with their community to identify long-term priorities for local identity, growth and lifestyle

· understand the range of services the community wants, the service standards they expect and the infrastructure that will be required

· have meaningful conversations about the cost of meeting community expectations. Allocate resources within council’s means and map out a 4-year strategy to deliver key priorities, projects and services

· set appropriate rates, fees and charges and monitor the council’s progress in delivering priorities, projects and services through the Operational Plan

· report to the community on their success in achieving these goals

· be assured that their council is meeting planning, consulting and reporting requirements under other laws.

A diagram of a community strategy

AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Figure 1 – Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework

Community Engagement Strategy

The Community Engagement Strategy (CES) is a key component of Council’s Integrated Planning and Reporting (IP&R) Framework, that provides structure to guide Council’s individual engagement activities.

While community engagement does not replace the decision-making powers of elected Councillors, it does enhance Councils capacity to make well-informed, sustainable decisions that clearly demonstrate community buy-in and support.

Council’s approach to community engagement is guided by the International Association of Public Participation’s Spectrum of Participation and the Principles of Social Justice. Each engagement approach varies based on need and impact and follows the process outlined below.

Community Participation Plan

The Community Participation Plan (CPP) details how and when the Council will undertake community engagement when exercising its role as a planning authority.

In developing the CPP, Sec 2.23 (2) of the EPA Act requires Council to consider the following elements:

· the community has a right to be informed about planning matters that affect it.

· planning authorities should encourage effective and on-going partnerships with the community to provide meaningful opportunities for community participation in planning.

· planning information should be in plain language, easily accessible and in a form that facilitates community participation in planning.

· the community should be given opportunities to participate in strategic planning as early as possible to enable community views to be genuinely considered.

· community participation should be inclusive and planning authorities should actively seek views that are representative of the community.

· members of the community who are affected by proposed major development should be consulted by the proponent before an application for planning approval is made.

· planning decisions should be made in an open and transparent way and the community should be provided with reasons for those decisions (including how community views have been taken into account).

· community participation methods (and the reasons given for planning decisions) should be appropriate having regard to the significance and likely impact of the proposed development.

Council’s approach to community engagement is guided by the minimum standards outlined in the CPP and the significance and impact of each matter. The CPP provides details of how Council will approach each of the following areas:

A blue and black sign

AI-generated content may be incorrect.

While the CPP outlines minimum statutory requirements, Council routinely exceeds these by:

· Extending public exhibition periods for significant developments.

· Expanding notification areas beyond the minimum radius.

· Using signage, media releases, online platforms and direct engagement.

Council has also included the following section regarding Major Development Pathways to provide clarity for the community.

Major Development Pathways

State Significant Development (SSD)

SSD refers to large-scale proposals considered to be of state-level economic, social or environmental importance, such as hospitals, educational facilities or large industrial projects. These are assessed via the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI).

State Significant Infrastructure (SSI)

SSI projects include key infrastructure such as highways, water pipelines, rail corridors and transmission lines. These are assessed by the Minister for Planning or their delegate and follow a streamlined pathway under the EP&A Act.

Council's Role in SSD and SSI

While Council is not the consent authority for SSD/SSI, it still:

· Makes formal submissions in the initial scoping phases and during the exhibition period

· Represents local views to State agencies

· Manages local impacts where relevant

Regionally Significant Development (RSD)

RSDs are assessed by Council staff but determined by the Southern Regional Planning Panel. Examples include:

· Developments over $30 million in value.

· Proposals on Council-owned land.

· Developments with regional impacts (e.g. employment generation, environmental sensitivity).

Council is responsible for exhibition and notification under the CPP, with reports presented to the Panel incorporating public submissions. The CES ensures this process is transparent and accessible.

Community Survey

In February 2024, Council engaged Micromex Research to conduct a Community Research survey in preparation for the development of the Community Strategic Plan.

As part of the engagement residents were surveyed on a range of topics and asked to rate both their level of satisfaction and the relative level of importance. These results were then benchmarked against four comparative regional councils to provide an indication of how Wagga Wagga City Council (WWCC) was performing.

The results include the following two relevant measures:

Measure	Importance		Satisfaction
Measure	WWCC	Var. to bench	WWCC	Var. to bench
Community input into Council decision making	85%	-1%	74%	-3%
Provision of Council information to the community	82%	-4%	67%	-5%

Respondents were also asked to provide feedback on how Council could improve their communication. The primary improvements included:

· more advertising / informing residents about what is happening

· more direct mail

· more transparency and honesty

· being more responsive

· utilising social media

· being proactive with communication

· providing more consultation opportunities

Both documents have been developed by taking into account the feedback received through the community survey and the consistent feedback from the community regarding the desire for greater transparency and visibility in planning matters.

Financial Implications

There are no financial implications for Council associated with this update.

Policy and Legislation

Sec 402A or the Local Government Act 1993 states “A council must establish and implement a strategy (called its community engagement strategy) for engagement with the local community when developing its plans, policies and programs and for the purpose of determining its activities (other than routine administrative matters)”

Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EPA Act) Sec 2.23 (1) Community participation plans – preparation states “A planning authority to which this Division applies is required to prepare a community participation plan about how and when it will undertake community participation when exercising relevant planning functions”

Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EPA Act) Sec 2.23 (4) Community participation plans – preparation states “A council need not prepare a separate community participation plan if it includes all the matters required under this section in its plan and strategies under the Local Government Act 1993, section 402A”

Link to Strategic Plan

Regional Leadership

Engaged Community

Provide real opportunities for our community to engage.

Risk Management Issues for Council

Regulatory challenge

The draft Community Engagement Strategy (CES) and Community Participation Plan (CPP) addresses the requirements of the Local Government Act 1993, Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, and NSW IP&R Guidelines (2021) relating to legislative compliance and service delivery. Failure to adhere to the CES and the CPP may expose Council to legal or regulatory challenge.

Council reputation

Poorly scoped and conducted engagement activities could damage Council’s reputation, increase complaints and result in service delivery that is inconsistent with the priorities established in the Community Strategic Plan, Wagga Wagga 2050.

Community expectations

The CPP details minimum standards for engagement which may differ to individual community member expectations. Increasing the standard levels of engagement comes at an additional time and cost and may have detrimental impact on activity levels.

Internal / External Consultation

Internal consultation was undertaken with relevant service areas to prepare the draft documents for exhibition.

To ensure transparency and facilitate engagement a community engagement plan has been developed that incorporates the following consultation activities:

· community drop in sessions

· community meetings at villages

· stakeholder workshops with the building and planning industry

· the documents will also be promoted through Council’s social media channels and direct communication channels, such as through Council’s weekly Council News email and publication in the Weekend Advertiser.

· the draft document will be made available on Council’s Have Your Say site

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)

Have your Say

Email newsletter

Social media

Website

Inform

Consult

Involve

Collaborate

Other methods (please list specific details below)

Attachments

1.	Community Engagement Strategy 2025 - Provided under separate cover
2.	Community Participation Plan 2025 - Provided under separate cover

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 27 October 2025

RP-12

RP-12 DEVELOPMENT POLICY UPDATES

Author: Cameron Collins

General Manager: Peter Thompson

Summary:

The draft Council-related Development Application Conflicts of Interest Management Policy (POL 045), Processing Development Applications Lodged by Councillors, Staff and Individuals Policy (POL 046) and the Swimming Pool Safety Policy (POL 049) was publicly exhibited from 26 August 2025 until 23 September 2025 with an invitation for public submissions until 6 October 2025.

No submissions were received in relation to the three policies.

During the Council meeting held on 25 August 2025, questions were raised regarding the necessity of the provision in Policy POL 045 that requires Councillor representatives or members of the Southern Regional Planning Panel to declare any conflict of interest in Council-related development applications and to refrain from participating in their assessment or determination.

Subject to a further amendment to Policy POL 045 addressing this matter, it is recommended that the policy be adopted.

Adoption of the policies POL 046 and POL 049 as exhibited is recommended.

Recommendation

That Council:

a note that no public submissions were received during the exhibition period on the draft Council-related Development Application Conflicts of Interest Management Policy (POL 045), Processing Development Applications Lodged by Councillors, Staff and Individuals Policy (POL 046) and the Swimming Pool Safety Policy (POL 049)

b adopt the draft Council-related Development Application Conflicts of Interest Management Policy (POL 045)

c adopt the draft Processing Development Applications lodged by Councillors, Staff and individuals Policy (POL 046)

d adopt the draft Swimming Pool Safety Policy (POL 049)

Report

As previously reported to Council on 25 August 2025, three planning and development-related policies have been reviewed as part of Council’s scheduled policy review program to ensure they remain current, effective, and compliant with legislative requirements.

Council-related Development Application Conflicts of Interest Management Policy (POL 045)

Policy POL 045 has been updated to clarify its scope and intent in managing conflicts where Council acts as both the applicant and the consent authority. The policy Procedural has been expanded to outline how the General Manager identifies and manages conflict risks across all stages of the development process.

The policy now details risk factors and thresholds that may trigger external assessment or referral to a Planning Panel and management strategies have been outlined for the assessment, determination, and enforcement phases. Exemptions have also been introduced for low-risk development types valued under $5 million, such as internal fit-outs and signage. Legislative references and related policies have been updated to align with current regulatory requirements.

During the Council meeting held on 25 August 2025, questions were raised regarding the necessity of the management control and strategy contained in Policy POL 045 that requires Councillor representatives or members of the Southern Regional Planning Panel to declare a conflict of interest in Council related development applications and to refrain from participating in their assessment or determination. The relevant part of the management control and strategy is contained at page 3 of the draft policy and is highlighted in bold below:

2. Determination

(a) …

(b) Council-related development with a CIV exceeding $5,000,000 shall be determined by the Southern Regional Planning Panel in accordance with the requirements of State Environmental Planning Policy (Planning Systems) 2021. Councillor representatives/members of the Southern Regional Planning Panel shall declare a conflict of interest in the matter and shall not participate in the assessment or determination of the application.

As required under Clause 66A of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2021, the Policy has been prepared in accordance with the Department’s Council-related Development Application Conflict of Interest Guidelines. These guidelines do not include any requirement for a Councillor representative member (or other Council representative member) to declare a conflict of interest in Council related development applications that are to be determined by a Regional Planning Panel.

Furthermore, the Sydney District and Regional Planning Panels Operational Procedures (Sydney District and Regional Planning Panels Operational Procedures – September 2022) do not automatically exclude Councillor representative members (or other Council representative members) from participating in the determination of such applications. Rather, the procedures require each member to consider if they have an actual, potential or reasonably perceived conflict and, if so, declare the conflict and take any appropriate action.

This particular provision of the Policy requiring Councillor representatives/members to not participate in the assessment or determination of the application was originally discussed in a Councillor workshop (on 29/5/2023) prior to the final adoption of the original Policy in August 2023. On this basis, it appears that the inclusion of the clause was a deliberate decision of the Council at the time, likely intended as an additional provision to remove any perceived conflict of interest.

Noting that:

1. There is no requirement under the Department’s Council-related Development Application Conflict of Interest Guidelines for the policy to include any requirement for a Councillor representative member (or other Council representative member) to declare a conflict of interest in Council related development applications that are to be determined by a Regional Planning Panel; and

2. Procedural requirements for declarations of interest in Planning Panel applications are already established under the Sydney District and Regional Planning Panels Operational Procedures;

It is recommended that Council adopt the Council-related Development Application Conflicts of Interest Management Policy (POL 045) as exhibited, subject to an amendment to delete the management control and strategy requiring that Councillor representatives or members of the Southern Regional Planning Panel declare a conflict of interest for any Council-related development applications and not participate in the assessment or determination of such applications. This amendment removes the existing provision in the policy that prevents Councillor representatives or members from participating in the assessment and determination of Council-related development applications.

Processing Development Applications lodged by Councillors, Staff and Individuals Policy (POL 046)

Policy POL 046 has been updated to clarify development application processing responsibilities based on the applicant’s relationship to Council, including staff, relatives, Councillors, and the General Manager. The policy now recognises the mandatory conflict of interest declarations via the NSW Planning Portal in relation to both the applicant and the landowner and the responsibility of staff with respect to these declarations to determine the applicability of this policy.

The policy also continues to specify delegation levels for determining applications, depending on the applicant’s position and the potential for conflict of interest. However, minor amendments have been made to clarify the delegations of the General manger and senior staff for determining certain applications under this policy.

This amended policy was publicly exhibited from 26 August 2025 until 23 September 2025 with an invitation for public submissions until 6 October 2025. No submissions were received.

It is recommended that the policy as exhibited be adopted.

Swimming Pool Safety Policy (POL 049)

Policy POL 049 has been updated to clarify upgrade requirements for older pools so as to comply with AS 1926.1–2012. The scope of the policy has also been amended to clarify specific exclusions for Crown land and properties owned or managed by public authorities. Detailed responsibilities have also been added to outline Council’s role in inspection, certification, and enforcement activities.

New sections have been introduced to address requirements for new swimming pools, including fencing, registration, and occupation certificates; standards for existing pool barriers and historical exemptions; and processes related to water quality, water disposal, fencing setbacks, and exemptions.

The policy also outlines Council’s responsibilities in administering the state-wide pool registration system and conducting compliance audits. Legislation and standards have been updated to reference multiple versions of AS 1926 and other relevant codes.

This amended policy was publicly exhibited from 26 August 2025 until 23 September 2025 with an invitation for public submissions until 6 October 2025. No submissions were received.

It is recommended that the policy as exhibited be adopted.

Financial Implications

N/A

Policy and Legislation

- Local Government Act 1993

- Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979

- Swimming Pool Act 1992

Link to Strategic Plan

Regional Leadership

Ethical Leadership

Provide strategic direction and leadership for our region to deliver key community priorities.

Risk Management Issues for Council

Council policies are essential to ensure transparent, legal, fair and consistent decision making across the Council. They support Council in achieving its corporate objectives and provide a critical guide for staff, councillors and other stakeholders. In the absence of effective policies there is a greater risk of inconsistency, confusion and inefficiency and can lead to non-compliance with the requirements of legislation and regulations.

Internal / External Consultation

Public exhibition was for a period of 28 days from 26 August 2025 until 23 September 2025 and invite public submissions until 6 October 2025 on the draft Policies, with no submissions received during this period.

Community engagement during the exhibition period included:

· The draft policy was made available on Council’s website for the duration of the exhibition period.

· A public notice was published in Council News and through the required formal advertisements in accordance with legislative requirements.

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)

Have your Say

Email newsletter

Social media

Website

Inform

Consult

Involve

Collaborate

Other methods (please list specific details below)

Attachments

1 ⇩.	Marked-Up - Development Application Conflicts of Interest Management Policy (POL 045)
2 ⇩.	Development Application Conflicts of Interest Management Policy (POL 045)
3 ⇩.	Processing Development Applications Lodged by Councillors, Staff and Individuals Policy (POL 046)
4 ⇩.	Swimming Pool Safety Policy (POL 049)

Submission Summary

Comment

Suggestion that the WHS Policy be updated to include explicit reference to volunteers. The respondent noted that volunteers are not currently mentioned alongside workers, councillors, and visitors, and proposed that volunteers be afforded the same considerations and responsibilities outlined for councillors.

The suggestion to include volunteers as a separate category in the Work Health and Safety Policy is not being adopted. Under the Work Health and Safety Act and Regulations, volunteers are regarded as workers when undertaking unpaid activities for Council. As such, their health and safety are already covered under the existing provisions for workers within the Policy.

Formatting and spelling

Spelling and formatting updated as provided in submission

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 27 October 2025

RP-16

RP-16 FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE REPORT AS AT 30 SEPTEMBER 2025

Author: Carolyn Rodney

Summary:

This report is for Council to consider information presented on the 2025/26 budget and Long-Term Financial Plan, and details Council’s external investments and performance as at 30 September 2025.

Recommendation

That Council:

a approve the proposed budget variations and note the balanced budget position as presented in this report

b approve the proposed budget variations to the Long Term Financial Plan Capital Works Program including new projects and timing adjustments

c note the Responsible Accounting Officer’s reports, in accordance with the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 (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

d note the details of the external investments as at 30 September 2025 in accordance with section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993

e adjust the sale price of the Gregadoo Waste Management Centre compactor down from the previously reported $200,000 trade in price advised at the 5 June 2023 Council meeting

Report

Wagga Wagga City Council (Council) forecasts a balanced budget position as of 30 September 2025.

Proposed budget variations including adjustments to the capital works program are detailed in this report for Council’s consideration and adoption.

Council has experienced a positive monthly investment performance for the month of September when compared to budget ($360,970 up on the monthly budget). This is mainly due to better than budgeted returns on Council’s investment portfolio, as well as a higher than anticipated investment portfolio balance – which is partly due to Council receiving upfront payment of $48.5M in funding under the Accelerated Infrastructure Fund in June 2024.

Key Performance Indicators

OPERATING INCOME

Total operating income is 25% of approved budget which is on track to budget for the month of September 2025. An adjustment has been made to reflect the levy of rates that occurred at the start of the financial year. Excluding this adjustment, operating income received is 67% when compared to budget.

OPERATING EXPENSES

Total operating expenditure is 30% of approved budget and is tracking over budget at this stage of the financial year. This is in relation to commitments that have been raised in the 1^st quarter of 2025 for the full 2025/26 financial year.

CAPITAL INCOME

Total capital income is 93% of approved budget, which is mainly attributed to the Accelerated Infrastructure Fund (AIF) grant funding that has been received. This income will be reduced and carried over to next financial year for completion of the project in line with the project budget.

It is important to note that the actual income from capital is influenced by the timing of the receipt of capital grants and contributions in relation to expenditure and milestones incurred on grant funded projects.

CAPITAL EXPENDITURE

Total capital expenditure including commitments is 17% of approved budget. Excluding commitments, the total expenditure is 8% when compared to the approved budget. There will be a Capital Project Budget Reset Report presented to Council which will adjust/reduce the current project budgets for the 2025/26 financial year.

2025/26 Revised Budget Result – (Surplus) / Deficit

$’000s

Original 2025/26 Budget Result as adopted by Council

Total Budget Variations approved to date

Budget Variations for September 2025

$0K

Proposed Revised Budget result for 30 September 2025 - (Surplus) / Deficit

$0K

The proposed Operating and Capital Budget Variations for 30 September 2025 which affect the current 2025/26 financial year are listed below.

*Budget Variation*	*Amount*	*Funding Source*		*Net Impact* *(Fav)/ Unfav*
*2 - Sustainable*
Bushfire Hazard Mitigation	$86K	Rural Fire Service (RFS) Grant Funding ($86K)	Nil
Council has been successful in securing funds from the RFS for Bushfire Hazard Mitigation. These funds will allow Council Officers to undertake Asset Protection Zone Maintenance at 16 locations for fire trail maintenance. Estimated Completion: 30 June 2026 Job Consolidation: 16639
*3 - Growing*
Pavement Rehabilitation Heavy Patching Urban Asphalt	$1,779K	Civil Infrastructure Reserve ($1,175K) Kerb & Gutter Replacement ($604K)	Nil
The 2025/26 Reseal and Rehabilitation Programs have a substantial volume of Kerb & Gutter works scheduled across multiple sites. Additional funds of $1,175K are required for Kerb & Gutter Replacement as these works are critical to maintaining Council’s road and drainage infrastructure, ensuring community safety, effective stormwater management, and prolonging the life of road pavements. It is proposed to fund the variation from the Civil Infrastructure Reserve. The existing Kerb & Gutter Replacement budget of $604K along with the additional funds from the reserve will be distributed across all Pavement Rehabilitation, Heavy Patching & Urban Asphalt budgets in 2025/26 and will be used for Kerb & Gutter works at the specific locations. Estimated Completion: 30 June 2026 Job Consolidation: 16532, 30044 & 16531.
Washout Bay Construction	$150K	Sewer Reserve ($75K) Stormwater Maintenance ($75K)	Nil
Funds are required for the construction of a Washout Bay for Council’s Combo Jetter Truck. In the past Council have used a drying bed with an overflow into the stormwater system for materials collected by Council’s high pressure Combo Jetter Truck. A dedicated concrete pad and solid separation system is proposed for construction at Council’s Alan Turner Depot to ensure industry standards are met. The funding of the variation is to be split between the Solid Waste Reserve and existing Stormwater Maintenance budgets. Estimated Completion: 30 June 2026 Job Consolidation: 24870
LMC Pump Replacement	$40K	LMC Reserve ($40K)	Nil
The Livestock Marketing Centre (LMC) utilises two variable speed pumps to supply recycled water to the site for wash down activities on a weekly basis to meet Biosecurity and EPA requirements and maintain service delivery. The pumps are rapidly approaching end of life with recent failures in the units. Replacement is required to ensure compliance is maintained for the business. It is proposed to fund the variation from the LMC Reserve. Estimated Completion: 30 June 2026 Job Number: 45013
LMC Consultancy	$100K	LMC Reserve ($100K)	Nil
Funds are required to improve systems and procedures at the Livestock Marketing Centre (LMC) to ensure operational sustainability and compliance. The processes to be reviewed include the maintenance work order system, gap analysis of policies and procedures, process mapping of critical processes at LMC, sales and euthanasia. It is proposed to fund the variation from the LMC Reserve. Estimated Completion: 30 June 2026 Job Number: 11 45000 7230
*4 – Vibrant*
Soil Bay Construction	$25K	Parks & Recreation Reserve ($25K)	Nil
Funds are required for the construction of a Soil Bay at the Equex Centre. The Soil Bay is required to ensure that Council has adequate amounts of Portland Soil, that is used to maintain 6 wicket tables across the Local Government Area. Council’s current supplier is ceasing trade over the next 12 months so it is proposed to construct the Soil Bay and purchase a considerable amount to guarantee supply (the purchase of the soil will be funded from existing operational budgets). The soil must stay dry and be stored correctly. This will ensure that Council has enough to maintain the wicket tables to an appropriate standard and also allows time to develop a plan to start changing the wickets to a new and readily available soil. It is proposed to fund the variation from the Parks & Recreation Reserve. Estimated Completion: 30 June 2026 Job Consolidation: 24871

2025/26 Capital Works Summary

Capital Works	Approved Budget	Proposed Movement^	Proposed Budget
One-off	$108,950,904	$215,000	$109,165,904
Recurrent	$35,291,788*	$1,175,195	$36,466,983
Total Capital Works	$144,242,692	$1,390,195	$145,632,887

*During a review that was undertaken by Council Officers it was deemed that an item under job consolidation 23110 Library Acquisitions was deemed operating and not capital. This has resulted in a reduction of $37,982 to the Recurrent Capital Works budget.

^The budget adjustments included in the ‘Proposed Movement’ column relate to the proposed budget adjustments in this report only, and do not include the budget adjustments that have been proposed in the Capital Works Program Reset report being presented at the same meeting.

Gregadoo Waste Management Centre Compactor

Council at its 5 June 2023 Council meeting resolved:

After the 5 June 2023 Council meeting, staff at the time determined that there was a preference to hold the older landfill compactor due to previous lag time experienced when staff had to hire an alternative compactor when the compactor was out of service. A recent review has determined that a different type of unit can be hired when required that is more readily available and does not have the lag time. It is now appropriate to sell the older compactor.

The reason for presenting this back to Council is that the resolution noted the trade in price of $200,000. The market price for the compactor has since decreased as the trade in offer was almost two years ago. Staff are in the process of securing a buyer through an auction house, with the final sale price representing today’s market value.

Current Restrictions

Due to finalisation of the 2024/25 financial year figures, reserve balances have not been included in this report.

Investment Summary as at 30 September 2025

In accordance with Regulation 212 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021, details of Wagga Wagga City Council’s external investments are outlined below.

Institution	Rating	Closing Balance Invested 31/08/2025 $	Closing Balance Invested 30/09/2025 $	September EOM Current Yield %	September EOM % of Portfolio	Investment Date	Maturity Date	Term (mth)
*At Call Accounts*
NAB	AA-	135,355	49,909	3.60%	0.02%	N/A	N/A	N/A
CBA	AA-	21,916,684	22,038,949	3.60%	7.10%	N/A	N/A	N/A
CBA	AA-	14,140,224	14,185,221	3.65%	4.57%	N/A	N/A	N/A
Macquarie Bank	A+	10,186,070	10,217,122	3.40%	3.29%	N/A	N/A	N/A
CBA	AA-	49,930,484	49,903,197	3.60%	16.07%	N/A	N/A	N/A
*Total At Call Accounts*		96,308,816	96,394,397	3.59%	31.05%
*Short Term Deposits*
AMP	BBB+	2,000,000	0	0.00%	0.00%	16/12/2024	16/09/2025	9
Bank of Sydney	NR	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.22%	0.64%	30/06/2025	30/06/2026	12
ICBC	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.20%	0.32%	14/11/2024	14/11/2025	12
NAB	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.11%	0.64%	28/11/2024	28/11/2025	12
MyState	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.10%	0.64%	29/11/2024	29/11/2025	12
MyState	BBB	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.15%	0.32%	4/12/2024	4/12/2025	12
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.80%	0.32%	26/02/2025	26/02/2026	12
State Bank of India	BBB-	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.10%	0.32%	7/03/2025	9/03/2026	12
State Bank of India	BBB-	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.00%	0.64%	10/03/2025	10/03/2026	12
State Bank of India	BBB-	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.00%	0.64%	17/03/2025	17/03/2026	12
State Bank of India	BBB-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.50%	0.32%	2/06/2025	2/06/2026	12
State Bank of India	BBB-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.30%	0.64%	25/06/2025	25/06/2026	12
ICBC	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.24%	0.32%	10/07/2025	10/07/2026	12
Bank of Sydney	NR	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.17%	0.64%	18/08/2025	18/08/2026	12
*Total Short Term Deposits*		22,000,000	20,000,000	4.74%	6.44%
*Medium Term Deposits*
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.32%	0.64%	28/06/2021	29/06/2026	60
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.80%	0.64%	15/11/2021	17/11/2025	48
ICBC	A	3,000,000	3,000,000	5.07%	0.97%	30/06/2022	30/06/2027	60
BoQ	A-	1,000,000	0	0.00%	0.00%	7/09/2020	8/09/2025	60
BoQ	A-	2,000,000	0	0.00%	0.00%	14/09/2020	15/09/2025	60
ICBC	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.20%	0.32%	7/12/2020	8/12/2025	60
NAB	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	0.95%	0.64%	29/01/2021	29/01/2026	60
NAB	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.08%	0.32%	22/02/2021	20/02/2026	60
NAB	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.25%	0.64%	3/03/2021	2/03/2026	60
NAB	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.40%	0.64%	21/06/2021	19/06/2026	60
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.32%	0.64%	25/06/2021	25/06/2026	60
ICBC	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.32%	0.32%	25/08/2021	25/08/2026	60
P&N Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.90%	0.64%	11/03/2024	11/03/2026	24
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.11%	0.32%	23/05/2024	25/05/2026	24
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.06%	0.64%	2/09/2025	4/09/2028	36
P&N Bank	BBB+	1,000,000	0	0.00%	0.00%	9/09/2022	9/09/2025	36
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.20%	0.64%	21/10/2022	21/10/2025	36
AMP	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.80%	0.32%	21/11/2022	20/11/2025	36
P&N Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.85%	0.64%	16/12/2024	16/12/2026	24
Police Credit Union	NR	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.75%	0.64%	17/02/2025	17/02/2027	24
P&N Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.00%	0.64%	14/03/2023	15/03/2027	48
Auswide	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.95%	0.64%	13/04/2023	13/04/2026	36
P&N Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.20%	0.64%	20/04/2023	20/04/2027	48
P&N Bank	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.20%	0.32%	26/05/2023	26/05/2026	36
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.38%	0.64%	28/06/2024	28/06/2029	60
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.90%	0.32%	29/11/2024	29/11/2026	24
P&N Bank	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.45%	0.32%	30/11/2023	28/11/2025	24
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.20%	0.64%	14/12/2023	15/12/2025	24
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.14%	0.64%	3/01/2024	5/01/2026	24
P&N Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.10%	0.64%	4/01/2024	4/01/2027	36
Suncorp	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.08%	0.32%	8/01/2024	8/01/2026	24
Australian Unity	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.93%	0.32%	7/03/2024	9/03/2026	24
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.10%	0.64%	23/04/2024	24/04/2028	48
NAB	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.10%	0.64%	6/05/2024	6/05/2026	24
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.12%	0.32%	24/05/2024	24/05/2027	36
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.26%	0.32%	31/05/2024	31/05/2028	48
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.24%	0.32%	3/06/2025	4/06/2029	48
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.26%	0.64%	6/06/2024	6/06/2028	48
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.20%	0.32%	11/06/2024	11/06/2026	24
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.20%	0.64%	11/06/2024	11/06/2026	24
BankVic	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.00%	0.64%	26/06/2025	26/06/2028	36
BankVic	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.65%	0.64%	27/08/2024	27/08/2026	24
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.63%	0.64%	30/08/2024	30/08/2026	24
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.51%	0.32%	16/09/2024	18/09/2028	48
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.45%	0.64%	27/09/2024	28/09/2026	24
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.45%	0.64%	17/10/2024	19/10/2026	24
Westpac	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.70%	0.32%	8/10/2024	8/10/2026	24
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.73%	0.64%	21/10/2024	21/10/2027	36
Hume Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.95%	0.64%	7/11/2024	7/11/2026	24
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.02%	0.64%	14/11/2024	16/11/2026	24
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.00%	0.32%	27/11/2024	27/11/2026	24
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.07%	0.64%	28/11/2024	28/11/2028	48
P&N Bank	BBB+	3,000,000	3,000,000	4.85%	0.97%	16/12/2024	16/12/2027	36
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.80%	0.64%	21/01/2025	21/01/2028	36
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.82%	0.32%	30/01/2025	29/01/2027	24
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.73%	0.64%	10/02/2025	10/02/2028	36
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.79%	0.32%	4/02/2025	4/02/2028	36
Regional Australia Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.71%	0.64%	12/02/2025	12/02/2027	24
Hume Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.75%	0.64%	12/02/2025	12/02/2029	48
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.70%	0.64%	12/02/2025	14/02/2028	36
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.77%	0.32%	26/02/2025	28/02/2028	36
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.62%	0.64%	3/03/2025	3/03/2028	36
State Bank of India	BBB-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.65%	0.64%	14/03/2025	15/03/2027	24
State Bank of India	BBB-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.65%	0.64%	31/03/2025	31/03/2027	24
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.81%	0.32%	1/04/2025	1/04/2030	60
State Bank of India	BBB-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.25%	0.64%	5/05/2025	5/05/2027	24
State Bank of India	BBB-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.25%	0.32%	29/05/2025	31/05/2027	24
State Bank of India	BBB-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.15%	0.64%	25/06/2025	25/06/2027	24
State Bank of India	BBB-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.15%	0.64%	2/07/2025	2/07/2027	24
State Bank of India	BBB-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.05%	0.32%	7/07/2025	7/07/2027	24
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.18%	0.64%	8/07/2025	9/07/2029	48
Regional Australia Bank	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.00%	0.32%	30/07/2025	30/07/2027	24
Westpac	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.00%	0.32%	12/08/2025	14/08/2028	36
Arab Bank Australia	NR	2,000,000	2,000,000	3.95%	0.64%	22/08/2025	24/08/2027	24
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.05%	0.64%	27/08/2025	27/08/2027	24
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	3,000,000	3,000,000	4.07%	0.97%	29/08/2025	29/08/2028	36
Police Credit Union	NR	0	1,000,000	4.06%	0.32%	8/09/2025	8/09/2027	24
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	0	1,000,000	4.08%	0.32%	9/09/2025	11/09/2028	36
BankVic	BBB+	0	2,000,000	4.09%	0.64%	15/09/2025	15/09/2028	36
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	0	2,000,000	4.05%	0.64%	16/09/2025	16/09/2027	24
*Total Medium Term Deposits*		128,000,000	130,000,000	4.31%	41.87%
*Floating Rate Notes - Senior Debt*
Newcastle Permanent	BBB+	1,005,006	1,009,893	BBSW + 100	0.33%	10/02/2022	10/02/2027	60
NAB	AA-	2,536,870	2,547,437	BBSW + 120	0.82%	25/11/2022	25/11/2027	60
Suncorp	AA-	1,126,171	1,117,862	BBSW + 125	0.36%	14/12/2022	14/12/2027	60
CBA	AA-	2,039,151	2,048,195	BBSW + 115	0.66%	13/01/2023	13/01/2028	60
Bank Australia	BBB+	1,919,471	1,928,435	BBSW + 155	0.62%	22/02/2023	22/02/2027	48
Bendigo-Adelaide Covered	AAA	1,022,883	1,015,057	BBSW + 115	0.33%	16/06/2023	16/06/2028	60
CBA	AA-	2,526,993	2,538,465	BBSW + 95	0.82%	17/08/2023	17/08/2028	60
ANZ	AA-	2,139,476	2,124,309	BBSW + 93	0.68%	11/09/2023	11/09/2028	60
Bank Australia	BBB+	1,668,902	1,676,713	BBSW + 150	0.54%	30/10/2023	30/10/2026	36
ANZ	AA-	2,531,576	2,543,763	BBSW + 96	0.82%	5/02/2024	5/02/2029	60
Suncorp	AA-	1,016,891	1,010,449	BBSW + 98	0.33%	19/03/2024	19/03/2029	60
ING Bank	A	507,427	503,617	BBSW + 95	0.16%	22/03/2024	22/03/2027	36
BoQ	A-	1,679,007	1,688,676	BBSW + 128	0.54%	30/04/2024	30/04/2029	60
Bendigo-Adelaide	A-	806,608	809,950	BBSW + 100	0.26%	14/05/2024	14/05/2027	36
ANZ	AA-	1,522,757	1,512,835	BBSW + 86	0.49%	18/06/2024	18/06/2029	60
Teachers Mutual	BBB+	916,438	909,842	BBSW + 130	0.29%	21/06/2024	21/06/2027	36
ING Bank	A	2,220,801	2,232,178	BBSW + 102	0.72%	20/08/2024	20/08/2029	60
CBA	AA-	1,511,287	1,518,915	BBSW + 87	0.49%	22/08/2024	22/08/2029	60
Suncorp	AA-	2,431,153	2,416,693	BBSW + 92	0.78%	27/09/2024	27/09/2029	60
Bendigo-Adelaide	A-	757,268	761,211	BBSW + 96	0.25%	24/10/2024	24/10/2028	48
ANZ	AA-	1,306,940	1,313,229	BBSW + 81	0.42%	18/02/2025	18/02/2030	60
Rabobank	A+	1,304,806	1,311,163	BBSW + 85	0.42%	20/02/2025	20/02/2030	60
The Bank of Nova Scotia	A+	2,029,205	2,017,028	BBSW + 140	0.65%	21/03/2025	21/03/2030	60
Suncorp	AA-	1,005,858	1,011,524	BBSW + 93	0.33%	21/05/2025	21/05/2030	60
Macquarie Bank	A+	1,409,169	1,417,446	BBSW + 82	0.46%	17/07/2025	17/07/2030	60
*Total Floating Rate Notes - Senior Debt*		38,942,113	38,984,884		12.10%
*Fixed Rate Bonds*
ING Covered	AAA	731,167	732,763	1.10%	0.24%	19/08/2021	19/08/2026	60
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	3,000,000	3,000,000	1.50%	0.97%	24/08/2021	15/12/2026	64
BoQ	A-	1,871,898	1,875,825	2.10%	0.60%	27/10/2021	27/10/2026	60
BoQ	A-	2,097,975	2,097,027	5.30%	0.68%	30/04/2024	30/04/2029	60
ANZ	AA-	1,224,884	1,223,435	4.65%	0.39%	18/02/2025	18/02/2030	60
The Bank of Nova Scotia	A+	2,081,076	2,031,241	5.23%	0.65%	21/03/2025	21/03/2030	60
Macquarie Bank	A+	1,714,876	1,712,203	4.37%	0.55%	17/07/2025	17/07/2030	60
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.50%	0.64%	6/08/2021	15/12/2026	64
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.50%	0.32%	14/07/2021	15/12/2026	65
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.30%	0.64%	29/04/2021	15/06/2026	61
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.00%	0.64%	30/11/2020	15/12/2025	60
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.00%	0.32%	20/11/2020	15/12/2025	61
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.00%	0.64%	21/10/2020	15/12/2025	62
*Total Fixed Rate Bonds*		22,721,875	22,672,495	2.48%	7.30%
*Managed Funds*
NSW Tcorp	NR	2,386,153	2,427,732	1.74%	0.78%	17/03/2014	1/09/2030	197
*Total Managed Funds*		2,386,153	2,427,732	1.74%	0.78%
TOTAL CASH ASSETS, CASH EQUIVALENTS & INVESTMENTS		310,358,958	310,479,508		100.00%

Council’s investment portfolio is dominated by Term Deposits, equating to approximately 48% of the portfolio across a broad range of counterparties. Cash equates to 31%, with Floating Rate Notes (FRNs) around 13%, fixed rate bonds around 7% 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.

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

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Investment Portfolio Balance

Council’s investment portfolio balance increased slightly over the past month, up from $310.36M to $310.48M.

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Monthly Investment Movements

Redemptions/Sales – Council redeemed/sold the following investment securities during September 2025:

Institution and Type	Amount	Investment Term	Interest Rate	Comments
AMP (BBB+) Term Deposit	$2M	9 months	5.10%	This term deposit was redeemed on maturity and these funds were reinvested in a new 2-year Australian Military Bank term deposit (as below).
BoQ (A-) Term Deposit	$1M	5 years	1.25%	This term deposit was redeemed on maturity and these funds were reinvested in a new 3-year Australian Military Bank term deposit (as below).
BoQ (A-) Term Deposit	$2M	5 years	1.25%	This term deposit was redeemed on maturity and these funds were reinvested in a new 3-year BankVic term deposit (as below).
P&N Bank (BBB+) Term Deposit	$1M	3 years	4.40%	This term deposit was redeemed on maturity and these funds were reinvested in a new 2-year Police Credit Union term deposit (as below).

New Investments – Council purchased the following investment securities during September 2025:

Institution and Type	Amount	Investment Term	Interest Rate	Comments
Police Credit Union (Unrated) Term Deposit	$1M	2 years	4.06%	The Police Credit Union rate of 4.06% compared favourably to the rest of the market for this term. The next best rate for this term was 4.02%.
Australia Military Bank (BBB+) Term Deposit	$1M	3 years	4.08%	The Australia Military Bank rate of 4.08% compared favourably to the rest of the market for this term. The next best rate for this term was 4.06%.
BankVic (BBB+) Term Deposit	$2M	3 years	4.09%	The BankVic rate of 4.09% compared favourably to the rest of the market for this term. The next best rate for this term was 4.08%.
Australia Military Bank (BBB+) Term Deposit	$2M	2 years	4.05%	The Australia Military Bank rate of 4.05% compared favourably to the rest of the market for this term. The next best rate for this term was 4.03%.

Rollovers – Council rolled over the following investment security during September 2025:

Institution and Type

Amount

Investment

Term

Interest

Rate

Comments

Australian Military Bank (BBB+) Term Deposit

$2M

3 years

4.06%

This term deposit was a 3-year investment earning 4.55% and was rolled at maturity into a new 3-year term deposit at 4.06%.

Monthly Investment Performance

Interest/growth/capital gains/(losses) for the month totalled $1,047,252, which compares favourably with the budget for the period of $686,282 - outperforming budget for the month by $360,970.

Council’s outperformance to budget for September is mainly due to better than budgeted returns on Councils investment portfolio as well as a higher than anticipated investment portfolio balance – which is partly due to Council receiving upfront payment of $48.5M in AIF funding in June 2024.

Council experienced a positive return on its NSW T-Corp Managed Fund for the month of September, with the fund returning +1.74% (or $41,579) with domestic (-0.78%) shares detracting from performance and international (+3.31%) shares being the main contributor to performance, as global shares reached all-time highs again.

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In comparison to the AusBond Bank Bill Index* of 3.62% (annualised), Council’s investment portfolio returned approximately 3.96% (annualised) for the month of September – outperforming the benchmark for the month.

Over the past year, Council’s investment portfolio has returned 4.24%, marginally outperforming the AusBond Bank Bill index by 0.05%. Councils investment portfolio has continued to perform in line with the AusBond Bank Bill Index* over the longer-term time period, returning 3.84% per annum over the past 3 years – slightly underperforming the benchmark by -0.21% over this time.

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* 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 Investment Policy adopted by Council on 24 June 2024.

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: Wagga Wagga City Council leads through engaged civic governance and is recognised and distinguished by its ethical decision-making, efficient management, innovation and quality customer service

Ensure transparency and accountability

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 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.

Attachments

1 ⇩.

Capital Works Program 2025/26 to 2034/35

1.	LEP21/0002 - Council Assessment Report - Provided under separate cover
2 .	LEP21/0002 - Development Analysis and Assumptions - Provided under separate cover
3 .	LEP21/0002 - Planning Proposal Application Package - Provided under separate cover
4 .	LEP21/0002 - Subdivision Groundwater Recharge Assessment - Provided under separate cover
5 .	LEP21/0002 - AGE Consultants - Independent groundwater salinity assessment - Provided under separate cover
6 .	LEP21/0002 - Advice - DPE Water - Provided under separate cover
7 .	LEP21/0002 - Advice - DCCEEW - Provided under separate cover
8 .	LEP21/0002 - Advice - DCCEEW - Provided under separate cover

Applicant	Matt Jenkins Builder Pty Ltd
Owner	Mr Michael Francis Mazzocchi & Briony Lee Mazzocchi
Development Cost	$1,516,870.00
Development Description	Multi Dwelling Housing 3 x 3-bedroom Dwellings

Category	Total Project Cost $m	AIF Funding $m	S7.11 Contribution Applied $m
Roads	$86.36	$49.57	$36.79
Plumpton Rd AIF Debt Servicing Costs	$6.06		$6.06
Active Travel	$7.74		$7.74
Playgrounds	$2.03		$2.03
Land Acquisition*	$0.9		$0.9
Major Park	$11.58		$11.58
Community Centre	$4.75		$4.75
Total	$119.42	$49.57	$69.85

Total Infrastructure works for SGA Zone 1 to be recovered through S7.11 contributions	$69,850,328
Estimated number of Lots in SGA Zone 1	2,500
Calculated Section 7.11 Contribution per lot for precinct specific required infrastructure	$27,940
‘Other Wagga Wagga’ Section 7.11	$2,060
Total Section 7.11 contribution per lot	$30,000

Area	Key Changes
Meeting Procedures	Mayor may call extraordinary meetings without councillor signatures. New process for urgent business requiring recorded reasons for inclusion.
Business Papers	General Manager must publish business papers from closed meetings once no longer confidential.
Pre-Meeting Briefings	Prohibited for any agenda business once the Code is adopted.
Public Forums	Optional for councils, but if held, must be livestreamed and conducted prior to the meeting. Council is awaiting further guidance from the Office of Local Government, however propose to hold the forum immediately prior to the scheduled Council Meeting.
Attendance & Audio-Visual Links	Councillors may attend by audio-visual link only in cases of ill-health, medical conditions, or unforeseen caring responsibilities.
Livestreaming	Mandatory from 1 January 2026. Recordings must remain online for 12 months or for the duration of the Council term, whichever is longer.
Conduct & Etiquette	New non-mandatory requirements for dress standards, standing provisions and prescribed modes of address.
Mayoral Minutes	May now be submitted on any matter without notice.
Rules of Debate	Simplified procedures including removal of foreshadowed motions and five-minute minimum speeches. Oral responses to Questions with Notice removed.
Planning Decisions	Cannot be made without a staff report. If a decision is made contrary to staff recommendations, reasons must be provided.
Disorder & Expulsion	Expanded definition of disorderly conduct. New provisions requiring Council to authorise the Chair’s power to expel at adoption and each new term. Public may be expelled for disruptions, protest materials, or unauthorised recordings.
Committees	Councillor-only committees must now comply with the full Code of Meeting Practice.

1.	DA25/0389 - SEE - Provided under separate cover
2.	DA25/0389 - Plans - Provided under separate cover
3.	DA25/0389 - Redacted Submission - Provided under separate cover
4.	DA25/0389 - s4.15 Report - Provided under separate cover

1 ⇩.	Social Media Policy (POL 065)
2 ⇩.	Media Policy (POL 090)

1.	Active resolutions - Provided under separate cover
2.	Active Notice of Motions - Provided under separate cover
3.	Completed resolutions from 1 July 2025 to 10 October 2025 - Provided under separate cover

Stage	Duration	Commencement
Topographic Survey	6 months	August 2024
Environmental Assessment	4 months	November 2024
Floodgate Pipe Relining	4 months	September 2025
Civil Design including mitigation options for residents adversely affected by the levee raising	6-12 months	July 2025
Levee contractor procurement	4 months	July 2026
Levee construction	24 months	November 2027