Agenda and
Business Paper

 

Ordinary Meeting of Council

 

 

 

To be held on
Monday 17 November 2025

at 6:00 PM

 

 

 

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

wagga.nsw.gov.au

NOTICE OF MEETING

 

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

 

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

 

 

WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCILLORS

STATEMENT OF ETHICAL OBLIGATIONS

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

QUORUM

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

 

Ordinary Meeting of Council AGENDA AND BUSINESS PAPER

Monday 17 November 2025

ORDER OF BUSINESS:

CLAUSE               PRECIS                                                                                                 PAGE

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY                                                                                   2

REFLECTION                                                                                                                         2

APOLOGIES                                                                                                                          2

Confirmation of Minutes

CM-1           CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES - ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING - 25 OCTOBER 2025                                                                                                                           2

CM-2           CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES - EXTRAORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING - 29 OCTOBER 2025                                                                                                                   2

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST                                                                                            3

Reports from Staff

RP-1            POMEROY DRIVE RECLASSIFICATION AND TRANSFER OF ASSET OWNERSHIP                                                                                                                       4

RP-2            ANNUAL REPORT 2024/25                                                                                 6

RP-3            PRESENTATION OF THE 2024/25 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS                            8

RP-4            FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE REPORT AS AT 31 OCTOBER 2025                      10

RP-5            RECORDS & INFORMATION MANAGEMENT POLICY                                        25

RP-6            QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE                                                                                34

Committee Minutes

M-1              CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES AUDIT, RISK AND IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE - 24 OCTOBER 2025                                                                                                  36   

Confidential Reports

CONF-1       36-40 GURWOOD STREET, WAGGA WAGGA - EXPRESSION OF INTEREST OUTCOME REPORT                                                                                                             41

CONF-2       ORGANISATION STRUCTURE                                                                           42

 

 

 

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

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

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

 

 

REFLECTION

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

 

 

APOLOGIES

 

 

 

Confirmation of Minutes

 

CM-1     CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES - ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING - 25 OCTOBER 2025       

Recommendation That the Minutes of the proceedings of the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 25 October 2025 be confirmed as a true and accurate record.

 

 

 

1⇩.

Minutes - Ordinary Council Meeting - 25 October 2025.

43

 

 

 

 

CM-2     CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES - EXTRAORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING - 29 OCTOBER 2025       

Recommendation That the Minutes of the proceedings of the Extraordinary Council Meeting held on 29 October 2025 be confirmed as a true and accurate record.

 

 

 

1⇩.

Minutes - Extraordinary Council Meeting - 29 October 2025.

67

 

 

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 17 November 2025

RP-1

 

Reports from Staff

RP-1               POMEROY DRIVE RECLASSIFICATION AND TRANSFER OF ASSET OWNERSHIP

Author:          Warren Faulkner 

         

 

Summary:

The NSW Government has identified and approved Pomeroy Drive to become a Classified State Road because of its importance as a vital spine road in the Wagga Wagga Special Activation Precinct.   This report seeks Council’s concurrence for the road to become a Classified State Road under the care and control of Transport for NSW and agree to transfer assets currently owned by Council in the Pomeroy Drive road reserve to Transport for NSW.

 

 

That Council:

a       concur with the reclassification of Pomeroy Drive from a Local Road to a Classified State Road and that Transport for NSW will become the Road Authority for the management of Pomeroy Drive

b       agree to transfer the road pavement assets, drainage structures, rail over road bridge and guardrails along Pomeroy Drive to Transport for NSW as detailed in the enclosed Transferred Asset Report

At the request of Regional Growth NSW Development Corporation, the NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads has approved Pomeroy Drive to be reclassified from a Local Road to a Classified State Road because of its importance as a spine road in the Wagga Wagga Special Activation Precinct.

 

In July 2024, a Joint Working Group comprising of representatives from Transport for NSW, Wagga Wagga City Council and RGDC was established to implement the reclassification.  In May 2025, the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) also joined the Working Group because of the need to transfer the ownership of the rail over road bridge on Pomeroy Drive.

 

The culmination of the Joint Working Group is the enclosed Transferred Asset Report which is a joint agreement between the Council and Transport for NSW to transfer road pavement assets, culverts, a rail over road bridge and guardrails in the Pomeroy Drive Road reserve to Transport for NSW.

 

To finalise the transfer and enable it to be formally gazetted by the NSW Government, Council must resolve to transfer the assets detailed in the report as the surrender of land or other property is not a function that can be delegated by the Council to the General Manager– Section 377(1)(h) of the Local Government Act 1993.

 

 

 

The transfer of the road pavement (including kerbs associated with the road), drainage structures, rail over road bridge and guardrails along Pomeroy Drive has a favourable non-cash impact on Council’s financial position because Councils overall depreciation expense is reduced by approximately $60,491. 

Roads Act 1993 – Section 150 – Transfer of public road to other roads authority

Local Government Act 1993 – Section 377(1)(h)

 

Regional Leadership

Vision for the future

Adopt a sound approach to strategic planning to ensure that we are preparing for future growth requirements of the city.

 

There are no risk management issues for Council in agreeing to transferring ownership and the management of the Pomeroy Drive road pavement assets, drainage structures, rail over road bridge and guardrails along Pomeroy Drive to Transport for NSW

Regular meetings have been occurring between Transport for NSW, Wagga Wagga City Council, Regional Growth NSW Development Corporation and the Australian Rail Track Corporation since July 2024 as detailed in Section 2 of the enclosed Transferred Asset Report.

 

 

 

1.

Pomeroy Drive Transfer Asset Report - Combined documents - Provided under separate cover.

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 17 November 2025

RP-2

 

RP-2               ANNUAL REPORT 2024/25

Author:         Bradley Ristivojevic 

Executive:    Scott Gray

         

 

Summary:

The Annual Report details to the community Council‘s progress implementing the Delivery Program and Operational Plan. It provides accountability to the community by reporting on progress of delivery actions and to state government agencies through a range of statutory reporting requirements. The Annual Report 2024/25 is presented to Council for endorsement.

 

 

That Council receives and notes the 2024/2025 Annual Report that is to be submitted to the Minister for Local Government by 30 November 2025.

 

The Annual Report is a key point of accountability between Council and the community.

 

It reports back to the community on the work undertaken by Council during the past year to deliver on the commitments of the Delivery Program 2022/23 -2025/26 via the Operational Plan 2024/25.

 

The Annual Report has been drafted to meet Council’s legislative requirements and act as important mechanism to explain to the Community the work undertaken during the year.

 

The structure of the report has been changed to highlight key areas including:

·    An updated village infographic that summaries service delivery to villages

·    Year in Review that highlights key information and achievements including a financial summary, progress against the quadruple bottom line (social, economic, environment and civic leadership), major events, major projects, community engagement, community recognition, achievements and awards.

·    Detailed reporting on the principal activities and operational actions completed during the year.

·    Expanded statutory reporting.

 

N/A

Annual Report requirements are contained in sections 428 and 406 of the Local Government Act 1993, the Local Government Regulation 2005, Office of Local Government’s (OLG) Integrated Planning and Reporting Guidelines for Local Government in NSW and other legislation summarised in OLG’s Annual Report Checklist and Circular 25-16 dated 31 July 2025. The annual report is required to be endorsed by Council.

 

Essential Element 5.1 of the Integrated Planning and Reporting Guidelines requires Council to prepare and endorse an Annual Report within 5 months of the end of the financial year (30 November 2025).

 

Regional Leadership

Good governance

Provide professional, innovative, accessible and efficient services.

 

Relevant risk management issues in relation to the annual report include:

 

1.   Compliance Risk – If the Annual Report is not published as required by legislation, Council will be in breach of its legislative requirements.

2.   Reputation Risk – The annual report provides a detailed account of actions undertaken during the year. This includes matters involving external stakeholders. The progress of some actions may not be consistent with the expectations of the community.

The annual report has been developed through internal consultation with Council staff and Directors. Internal consultation included review by Council’s Executive team.

 

 

1.

Wagga Wagga City Council 2024/2025 Annual Report - Provided under separate cover.

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 17 November 2025

RP-3

 

RP-3               PRESENTATION OF THE 2024/25 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Author:         Zachary Wilson 

Executive:    Carolyn Rodney

         

 

Summary:

Council resolved to sign the 2024/25 Financial Statements at the 29 October 2025 Extraordinary Council Meeting, enabling Council officers to lodge the financial statements with the Office of Local Government (OLG) prior to the 31 October 2025 due date.   Council’s external auditors, NSW Audit Office have completed their Auditor’s Report, and have provided this to Council for their information.

 

 

Recommendation That Council: a       receive the Audited Financial Statements, together with the Auditor’s Reports on the Financial Statements for the year ended 30 June 2025 b       receive a further report if any public submissions are received

 

The Audit Reports for the 2024/25 Financial Statements have now been received and are presented in accordance with section 419(1) of the Local Government Act 1993.

 

Council has provided public notice that the Financial Statements and Auditor’s Reports will be presented at this meeting in accordance with section 418 of the Local Government Act 1993 and has invited public submissions on the audited financial statements, with submissions open until Tuesday 25 November.

 

Whilst this report and associated attachments show Council’s financial performance and position for the 2024/25 financial year, the adoption of this report by the Council has no financial implications.

Local Government Act 1993

Sections:   419 – Presentation of council’s financial reports

420 – Submissions on financial reports and auditor’s report

 

Regional Leadership

Ethical Leadership

Deliver accountable and transparent leadership.

 

 

The Management letter on the Final Phase of the Audit for the year ended 30 June 2025 will be presented to the February 2025 Audit, Risk & Improvement Committee meeting and will include Councils Management responses on any issues raised.

Council’s external auditors, NSW Audit Office have liaised with Council’s Finance division and presented the draft Financial Statements in detail to the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee at the 24 October 2025 Committee meeting.

 

The draft Financial Statements were approved for signing by Council at its 29 October 2025 Extraordinary Council meeting and were lodged with the OLG on 30 October 2025.

 

 

1.

Annual Financial Statements 2024-25 - Provided under separate cover.

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 17 November 2025

RP-4

 

RP-4               FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE REPORT AS AT 31 OCTOBER 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 31 October 2025.

 

 

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        approve the Quarterly Budget Review Statement (QBRS) for the quarter ending 30 September 2025

d       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

e       note the details of the external investments as at 31 October 2025 in accordance with section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993

f        accept the grant funding offers as presented in this report

Wagga Wagga City Council (Council) forecasts a balanced budget position as of 31 October 2025.

 

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

 

The Quarterly Budget Review Statement (QBRS) has been included as an attachment in this report and includes a summary of Council’s financial performance for the quarter ending 30 September 2025. These QBRS standardised reporting templates have been developed to ensure council staff report clearly and consistently to Councillors and the community by providing relevant and easy to read financial information. The recommended changes that have been included in the QBRS have already been adopted at previous meetings of Council.

 

Council has experienced a positive monthly investment performance for the month of October when compared to budget ($406,638 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 75% of approved budget and is exceeding the budget due to the rates annual charges being raised at the start of the year.

 

OPERATING EXPENSES

Total operating expenditure is 37% 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 for the full 2025/26 financial year.

 

CAPITAL INCOME

Total capital income is 140% 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 36% of approved budget. Excluding commitments, the total expenditure is 16% when compared to the approved budget.

 

 

 

 

 

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 October 2025	$0K $0K $0K
Proposed Revised Budget result for 31 October 2025 - (Surplus) / Deficit	$0K

 

The proposed Operating and Capital Budget Variations for 31 October 2025 which affect the current 2025/26 financial year are listed below.

 

 

2025/26 Capital Works Summary

 

Capital Works	Approved Budget	Proposed Movement	Proposed Budget
One-off	$60,974,796	$400,000	$61,374,796
Recurrent	$36,456,448	$0	$36,456,448
Total Capital Works	$97,431,244	$400,000	$97,831,244

 

Current Restrictions

 

RESERVES SUMMARY
31 OCTOBER 2025
	CLOSING BALANCE 2024/25	ADOPTED RESERVE TRANSFERS 2025/26	BUDGET VARIATIONS APPROVED UP TO COUNCIL MEETING 29.10.2025	PROPOSED CHANGES for Council Resolution*	BALANCE AS AT 31 OCTOBER 2025
Externally Restricted
Developer Contributions - Section 7.11	(34,255,170)	240,743	103,030		(33,911,398)
Developer Contributions - Section 7.12	(1,249,835)	(28,052)	20,000		(1,257,887)
Developer Contributions - Stormwater Section 64	(10,009,058)	(802,931)	31,000		(10,780,989)
Sewer Fund	(61,473,248)	(299,197)	3,242,130	650,000	(57,880,315)
Solid Waste	(35,184,093)	2,571,122	2,056,559		(30,556,413)
Specific Purpose Unexpended Grants & Contributions	(64,727,816)	0	64,727,816		0
SRV Levee Reserve	(6,230,711)	0	0		(6,230,711)
Stormwater Levy	(5,711,474)	2,343,245	(1,757,647)		(5,125,876)
Total Externally Restricted	(218,841,407)	4,024,930	68,422,888	650,000	(145,743,589)
Internally Restricted
Airport	0	(246,893)	(728,747)		(975,641)
Art Gallery	(22,548)	0	0		(22,548)
Bridge Replacement	(1,272,343)	0	75,000		(1,197,343)
Buildings	(3,872,876)	306,774	471,070		(3,095,032)
CCTV	(16,374)	0	0		(16,374)
Cemetery	(1,405,926)	(205,658)	(13,923)		(1,625,507)
Civic Theatre	(95,013)	(57,388)	30,000		(122,401)
Civil Infrastructure	(13,477,978)	2,580,634	728,627		(10,168,717)
Council Election	(27,411)	(127,418)	0		(154,829)
Economic Development	(718,754)	0	(627,513)		(1,346,268)
Emergency Events Reserve	(337,706)	(82,188)	0		(419,894)
Employee Leave Entitlements Gen Fund	(3,986,868)	0	0		(3,986,868)
Environmental Conservation	(116,578)	0	0		(116,578)
Event Attraction	(490,685)	32,500	56,000		(402,185)
Financial Assistance Grants in Advance	(6,769,742)	0	6,769,742		0
Grant Co-Funding	(313,076)	180,000	133,076		0
Gravel Pit Restoration	(647,804)	3,333	57,863		(586,608)
Information Services	(3,722,935)	136,696	335,689		(3,250,550)
Insurance Variations	(50,000)	0	0		(50,000)
Internal Loans	(9,200,817)	1,441,477	(713,098)		(8,472,438)
Lake Albert Improvements	(727,876)	601,887	85,713		(40,276)
Library	(632,518)	(191,447)	0		(823,965)
Livestock Marketing Centre	(8,155,294)	3,181,495	(3,750,503)		(8,724,302)
Museum Acquisitions	(67,114)	0	0		(67,114)

 

 

 

Investment Summary as at 31 October 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 30/09/2025 $	Closing Balance Invested 31/10/2025 $	October EOM Current Yield %	October EOM % of Portfolio	Investment Date	Maturity Date	Term (mhs)
At Call Accounts
NAB	AA-	49,909	51,267	3.60%	0.02%	N/A	N/A	N/A
CBA	AA-	22,038,949	17,627,842	3.60%	5.76%	N/A	N/A	N/A
CBA	AA-	14,185,221	14,227,777	3.65%	4.65%	N/A	N/A	N/A
Macquarie Bank	A+	10,217,122	10,247,263	3.40%	3.35%	N/A	N/A	N/A
CBA	AA-	49,903,197	49,999,207	3.60%	16.32%	N/A	N/A	N/A
Total At Call Accounts		96,394,397	92,153,356	3.59%	30.09%
Short Term Deposits
Bank of Sydney	NR	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.22%	0.65%	30/06/2025	30/06/2026	12
ICBC	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.20%	0.33%	14/11/2024	14/11/2025	12
NAB	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.11%	0.65%	28/11/2024	28/11/2025	12
MyState	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.10%	0.65%	29/11/2024	29/11/2025	12
MyState	BBB	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.15%	0.33%	4/12/2024	4/12/2025	12
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.80%	0.33%	26/02/2025	26/02/2026	12
State Bank of India	BBB-	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.10%	0.33%	7/03/2025	9/03/2026	12
State Bank of India	BBB-	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.00%	0.65%	10/03/2025	10/03/2026	12
State Bank of India	BBB-	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.00%	0.65%	17/03/2025	17/03/2026	12
State Bank of India	BBB-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.50%	0.33%	2/06/2025	2/06/2026	12
State Bank of India	BBB-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.30%	0.65%	25/06/2025	25/06/2026	12
ICBC	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.24%	0.33%	10/07/2025	10/07/2026	12
Bank of Sydney	NR	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.17%	0.65%	18/08/2025	18/08/2026	12
Total Short Term Deposits		20,000,000	20,000,000	4.74%	6.53%
Medium Term Deposits
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.32%	0.65%	28/06/2021	29/06/2026	60
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.80%	0.65%	15/11/2021	17/11/2025	48
ICBC	A	3,000,000	3,000,000	5.07%	0.98%	30/06/2022	30/06/2027	60
ICBC	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.20%	0.33%	7/12/2020	8/12/2025	60
NAB	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	0.95%	0.65%	29/01/2021	29/01/2026	60
NAB	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.08%	0.33%	22/02/2021	20/02/2026	60
NAB	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.25%	0.65%	3/03/2021	2/03/2026	60
NAB	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.40%	0.65%	21/06/2021	19/06/2026	60
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.32%	0.65%	25/06/2021	25/06/2026	60
ICBC	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.32%	0.33%	25/08/2021	25/08/2026	60
P&N Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.90%	0.65%	11/03/2024	11/03/2026	24
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.11%	0.33%	23/05/2024	25/05/2026	24
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.06%	0.65%	2/09/2025	4/09/2028	36
ICBC	A	2,000,000	0	0.00%	0.00%	21/10/2022	21/10/2025	36
AMP	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.80%	0.33%	21/11/2022	20/11/2025	36
P&N Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.85%	0.65%	16/12/2024	16/12/2026	24
Police Credit Union	NR	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.75%	0.65%	17/02/2025	17/02/2027	24
P&N Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.00%	0.65%	14/03/2023	15/03/2027	48
Auswide	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.95%	0.65%	13/04/2023	13/04/2026	36
P&N Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.20%	0.65%	20/04/2023	20/04/2027	48
P&N Bank	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.20%	0.33%	26/05/2023	26/05/2026	36
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.38%	0.65%	28/06/2024	28/06/2029	60
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.90%	0.33%	29/11/2024	29/11/2026	24
P&N Bank	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.45%	0.33%	30/11/2023	28/11/2025	24
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.20%	0.65%	14/12/2023	15/12/2025	24
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.14%	0.65%	3/01/2024	5/01/2026	24
P&N Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.10%	0.65%	4/01/2024	4/01/2027	36
Suncorp	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.08%	0.33%	8/01/2024	8/01/2026	24
Australian Unity	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.93%	0.33%	7/03/2024	9/03/2026	24
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.10%	0.65%	23/04/2024	24/04/2028	48
NAB	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.10%	0.65%	6/05/2024	6/05/2026	24
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.12%	0.33%	24/05/2024	24/05/2027	36
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.26%	0.33%	31/05/2024	31/05/2028	48
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.24%	0.33%	3/06/2025	4/06/2029	48
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.26%	0.65%	6/06/2024	6/06/2028	48
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.20%	0.33%	11/06/2024	11/06/2026	24
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.20%	0.65%	11/06/2024	11/06/2026	24
BankVic	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.00%	0.65%	26/06/2025	26/06/2028	36
BankVic	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.65%	0.65%	27/08/2024	27/08/2026	24
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.63%	0.65%	30/08/2024	30/08/2026	24
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.51%	0.33%	16/09/2024	18/09/2028	48
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.45%	0.65%	27/09/2024	28/09/2026	24
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.79%	0.65%	17/10/2024	19/10/2026	24
Westpac	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.70%	0.33%	8/10/2024	8/10/2026	24
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.73%	0.65%	21/10/2024	21/10/2027	36
Hume Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.95%	0.65%	7/11/2024	7/11/2026	24
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.02%	0.65%	14/11/2024	16/11/2026	24
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.00%	0.33%	27/11/2024	27/11/2026	24
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.07%	0.65%	28/11/2024	28/11/2028	48
P&N Bank	BBB+	3,000,000	3,000,000	4.85%	0.98%	16/12/2024	16/12/2027	36
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.80%	0.65%	21/01/2025	21/01/2028	36
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.82%	0.33%	30/01/2025	29/01/2027	24
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.73%	0.65%	10/02/2025	10/02/2028	36
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.79%	0.33%	4/02/2025	4/02/2028	36
Regional Australia Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.71%	0.65%	12/02/2025	12/02/2027	24
Hume Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.75%	0.65%	12/02/2025	12/02/2029	48
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.70%	0.65%	12/02/2025	14/02/2028	36
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.77%	0.33%	26/02/2025	28/02/2028	36
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.62%	0.65%	3/03/2025	3/03/2028	36
State Bank of India	BBB-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.65%	0.65%	14/03/2025	15/03/2027	24
State Bank of India	BBB-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.65%	0.65%	31/03/2025	31/03/2027	24
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.81%	0.33%	1/04/2025	1/04/2030	60
State Bank of India	BBB-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.25%	0.65%	5/05/2025	5/05/2027	24
State Bank of India	BBB-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.25%	0.33%	29/05/2025	31/05/2027	24
State Bank of India	BBB-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.15%	0.65%	25/06/2025	25/06/2027	24
State Bank of India	BBB-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.15%	0.65%	2/07/2025	2/07/2027	24
State Bank of India	BBB-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.05%	0.33%	7/07/2025	7/07/2027	24
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.18%	0.65%	8/07/2025	9/07/2029	48
Regional Australia Bank	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.00%	0.33%	30/07/2025	30/07/2027	24
Westpac	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.00%	0.33%	12/08/2025	14/08/2028	36
Arab Bank Australia	NR	2,000,000	2,000,000	3.95%	0.65%	22/08/2025	24/08/2027	24
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.05%	0.65%	27/08/2025	27/08/2027	24
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	3,000,000	3,000,000	4.07%	0.98%	29/08/2025	29/08/2028	36
Police Credit Union	NR	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.06%	0.33%	8/09/2025	8/09/2027	24
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.08%	0.33%	9/09/2025	11/09/2028	36
BankVic	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.09%	0.65%	15/09/2025	15/09/2028	36
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.05%	0.65%	16/09/2025	16/09/2027	24
BankVic	BBB+	0	2,000,000	4.15%	0.65%	21/10/2025	21/10/2027	24
Total Medium Term Deposits		130,000,000	130,000,000	4.30%	42.45%
Floating Rate Notes - Senior Debt
Newcastle Permanent	BBB+	1,009,893	1,013,628	BBSW + 100	0.33%	10/02/2022	10/02/2027	60
NAB	AA-	2,547,437	2,555,090	BBSW + 120	0.83%	25/11/2022	25/11/2027	60
Suncorp	AA-	1,117,862	1,121,502	BBSW + 125	0.37%	14/12/2022	14/12/2027	60
CBA	AA-	2,048,195	2,030,197	BBSW + 115	0.66%	13/01/2023	13/01/2028	60
Bank Australia	BBB+	1,928,435	1,935,975	BBSW + 155	0.63%	22/02/2023	22/02/2027	48
Bendigo-Adelaide Covered	AAA	1,015,057	1,018,487	BBSW + 115	0.33%	16/06/2023	16/06/2028	60
CBA	AA-	2,538,465	2,546,827	BBSW + 95	0.83%	17/08/2023	17/08/2028	60
ANZ	AA-	2,124,309	2,131,051	BBSW + 93	0.70%	11/09/2023	11/09/2028	60
Bank Australia	BBB+	1,676,713	1,661,747	BBSW + 150	0.54%	30/10/2023	30/10/2026	36
ANZ	AA-	2,543,763	2,551,815	BBSW + 96	0.83%	5/02/2024	5/02/2029	60
Suncorp	AA-	1,010,449	1,013,925	BBSW + 98	0.33%	19/03/2024	19/03/2029	60
ING Bank	A	503,617	505,244	BBSW + 95	0.16%	22/03/2024	22/03/2027	36
BoQ	A-	1,688,676	1,674,814	BBSW + 128	0.55%	30/04/2024	30/04/2029	60
Bendigo-Adelaide	A-	809,950	812,543	BBSW + 100	0.27%	14/05/2024	14/05/2027	36
ANZ	AA-	1,512,835	1,517,637	BBSW + 86	0.50%	18/06/2024	18/06/2029	60
Teachers Mutual	BBB+	909,842	912,851	BBSW + 130	0.30%	21/06/2024	21/06/2027	36
ING Bank	A	2,232,178	2,240,680	BBSW + 102	0.73%	20/08/2024	20/08/2029	60
CBA	AA-	1,518,915	1,523,932	BBSW + 87	0.50%	22/08/2024	22/08/2029	60
Suncorp	AA-	2,416,693	2,425,373	BBSW + 92	0.79%	27/09/2024	27/09/2029	60
Bendigo-Adelaide	A-	761,211	754,720	BBSW + 96	0.25%	24/10/2024	24/10/2028	48
ANZ	AA-	1,313,229	1,317,455	BBSW + 81	0.43%	18/02/2025	18/02/2030	60
Rabobank	A+	1,311,163	1,316,862	BBSW + 85	0.43%	20/02/2025	20/02/2030	60
The Bank of Nova Scotia	A+	2,017,028	2,027,384	BBSW + 140	0.66%	21/03/2025	21/03/2030	60
Suncorp	AA-	1,011,524	1,015,614	BBSW + 93	0.33%	21/05/2025	21/05/2030	60
Macquarie Bank	A+	1,417,446	1,405,526	BBSW + 82	0.46%	17/07/2025	17/07/2030	60
Total Floating Rate Notes - Senior Debt		38,984,884	39,030,880		12.28%
Fixed Rate Bonds
ING Covered	AAA	732,763	734,815	1.10%	0.24%	19/08/2021	19/08/2026	60
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	3,000,000	3,000,000	1.50%	0.98%	24/08/2021	15/12/2026	64
BoQ	A-	1,875,825	1,862,170	2.10%	0.61%	27/10/2021	27/10/2026	60
BoQ	A-	2,097,027	2,048,097	5.30%	0.67%	30/04/2024	30/04/2029	60
ANZ	AA-	1,223,435	1,225,416	4.65%	0.40%	18/02/2025	18/02/2030	60
The Bank of Nova Scotia	A+	2,031,241	2,037,509	5.23%	0.67%	21/03/2025	21/03/2030	60
Macquarie Bank	A+	1,712,203	1,716,940	4.37%	0.56%	17/07/2025	17/07/2030	60
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.50%	0.65%	6/08/2021	15/12/2026	64
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.50%	0.33%	14/07/2021	15/12/2026	65
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.30%	0.65%	29/04/2021	15/06/2026	61
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.00%	0.65%	30/11/2020	15/12/2025	60
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.00%	0.33%	20/11/2020	15/12/2025	61
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.00%	0.65%	21/10/2020	15/12/2025	62
Total Fixed Rate Bonds		22,672,495	22,624,947	2.48%	7.39%
Managed Funds
NSW Tcorp	NR	2,427,732	2,468,907	1.70%	0.81%	17/03/2014	1/10/2030	198
Total Managed Funds		2,427,732	2,468,907	1.70%	0.81%
TOTAL CASH ASSETS, CASH EQUIVALENTS & INVESTMENTS		310,479,508	306,278,090		100.00%

 

Council’s investment portfolio is dominated by Term Deposits, equating to approximately 49% of the portfolio across a broad range of counterparties. Cash equates to 30%, 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.

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

Investment Portfolio Balance

 

Council’s investment portfolio balance decreased over the past month, down from $310.48M to $306.28M. This decrease is as a result of a number of contract payments being made during the month.

 

 

Monthly Investment Movements

 

Redemptions/Sales – Council redeemed/sold the following investment security during October 2025:

 

 

New Investments – Council purchased the following investment security during October 2025:

 

 

Rollovers – Council did not rollover any investment securities during October 2025.

 

Monthly Investment Performance

 

Interest/growth/capital gains/(losses) for the month totalled $1,092,920, which compares favourably with the budget for the period of $686,282 - outperforming budget for the month by $406,638.

 

Council’s outperformance to budget for October 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. For the 2025/26 financial year to date, Council has accrued $619,162 on this AIF funding received. As the project commences and the funding is spent, the monthly interest on this funding will reduce.

 

Council experienced a positive return on its NSW T-Corp Managed Fund for the month of October, with the fund returning +1.70% (or $41,175) with domestic (+0.39%) and international (+2.07%) shares being the main contributor to performance, as global shares continued to reach all-time highs.

 

 

In comparison to the AusBond Bank Bill Index* of 3.55% (annualised), Council’s investment portfolio returned approximately 4.08% (annualised) for the month of October – outperforming the benchmark for the month.

 

Over the past year, Council’s investment portfolio has returned 4.24%, outperforming the AusBond Bank Bill index by 0.14%. Councils investment portfolio has continued to perform in line with the AusBond Bank Bill Index* over the longer-term time period, returning 3.88% per annum over the past 3 years – slightly underperforming the benchmark by -0.20% over this time.

 

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

Report by Responsible Accounting Officer

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

 

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

 

Local Government Act 1993

Section 625 - How may councils invest?

 

Local Government (General) Regulation 2021

Section 212 - Reports on council investments

 

Community leadership and collaboration

Objective: 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

 

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

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

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

All relevant areas within 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.

 

 

1.	Capital Works Program 2025/26 to 2034/35 - Provided under separate cover.
2.	Quarterly Budget Review Statement - September 2025 - Provided under separate cover.

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 17 November 2025

RP-5

 

RP-5               RECORDS & INFORMATION MANAGEMENT POLICY

Author:          Reece Hamblin 

Executive:    Scott Gray

         

 

Summary:

The draft Records & Information Management Policy (POL 043) was publicly exhibited from 9 September 2025 until 7 October 2025 and invite public submissions until 21 October 2025. No submissions were received. Adoption of the policy as exhibited is recommended.

 

 

That Council:

a       note no public submissions were received during the exhibition period on the draft Records & Information Management Policy (POL 043)

b       adopt the draft Records & Information Management Policy (POL 043)

As previously reported to Council on 8 September 2025, the Records & Information Management Policy has been reviewed as part of Council’s scheduled policy review program to ensure it remains current, effective, and aligned with legislative and regulatory requirements.

 

The policy has been updated to combine the former separate Councillor and Staff policies into a single overarching framework, align its wording and structure with NSW State Government Records Management guidelines, and remove operational-level guidance to ensure it functions as a high-level policy document.

 

Council placed the draft policies on public exhibition for a period of 28 days from 9 September 2025 until 7 October 2025 and invited public submissions until 21 October 2025.

 

Council received no submissions during this period. Accordingly, it is recommended that Council adopt the adopt the draft Records & Information Management Policy (POL 043) as exhibited.

 

N/A

Local Government Act 1993

State Records Act 1998 (NSW)

 

Regional Leadership

Ethical Leadership

Deliver accountable and transparent leadership.

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 increased non-compliance with the requirements of legislation and regulations.

A Records & Information Management Policy is particularly important because records are a key corporate asset that underpin all Council operations and decision-making. Sound recordkeeping practices ensure that information is accurate, reliable and accessible when needed. They provide evidence of actions, support accountability and protect Council’s legal and financial interests.

Without clear policy direction, there is an increased risk of non-compliance with the State Records Act 1998 (NSW) and other legislative requirements, as well as the potential loss of corporate memory and inability to retrieve key information. Poor recordkeeping can also expose Council to legal, reputational and operational risks, particularly when responding to audits, investigations or Government Information (Public Access) Act requests.

A contemporary Records & Information Management Policy provides a structured governance framework for how information is created, stored, used and disposed of across the organisation. It promotes consistency and efficiency in managing both physical and digital records, ensures appropriate security and access controls and supports Council’s broader objectives for transparency, accountability and digital transformation.

Public exhibition was for a period of 28 days from 9 September 2025 until 7 October 2025 and invite public submissions until 21 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

x

x

x

Consult

Involve

Collaborate

 

 

 

1⇩.

Records & Information Management Policy (POL 043)

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 17 November 2025

RP-5

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 17 November 2025

RP-6

 

RP-6               QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE

Author:          Scott Gray 

         

 

Summary:

This report is to respond to questions with notice raised by Councillors in accordance with Council’s Code of Meeting Practice.

 

 

Recommendation That Council receive and note the report.

 

The following questions with notice were received prior to the meeting, in accordance with the Code of Meeting Practice.

 

Councillor J McKinnon Following feedback from the public, can Council consider including seating suitable for carers in the designs for new playgrounds, as apparently very few of the designs for Hardy Ave and Jack Misson Oval include seating close to the playground for carers?

The playground designs supplied by the companies only include the play equipment and layout. Council is responsible for providing supporting infrastructure such as seating, furniture, and access paths as part of the overall works.   While some suppliers include seating or other furniture in their concept graphics, these are indicative only and not part of their scope of works. For both Hardy Avenue and Jack Misson Oval, there is existing seating in place and Council will assess the need for additional seating suitable for carers as part of the final installation phase.

 

N/A

Code of Meeting Practice

 

Regional Leadership

Good governance

Provide professional, innovative, accessible and efficient services.

 

 

 

N/A

N/A

 

 

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 17 November 2025

M-1

 

Committee Minutes

M-1                 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES AUDIT, RISK AND IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE - 24 OCTOBER 2025

Author:         Melinda Conolly 

Executive:    Peter Thompson

         

 

Summary:

The Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee (ARIC) is an advisory committee of Council. This Report seeks that Council endorse the recommendations from 24 October 2025 Meeting.   Those recommendations relate to the role of the Committee in providing independent assurance and assistance to Council on financial reporting, risk management, internal controls, governance, and internal and external audit and accountability responsibilities.

 

 

Recommendation That Council endorse the recommendations contained in the minutes of the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee Meeting held on 24 October 2025.

 

The minutes of the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee Meeting held on 24 October 2025 are presented to Council for adoption. The Chairperson Report is provided below providing a summary of the meeting.

 

The Audit Risk & Improvement Committee convened on 24 October to review and discuss Council's financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2025 and receive the closing report from the NSW Audit Office.

 

Key Audit Matters

·      Infrastructure Revaluation: A comprehensive revaluation of stormwater drainage assets was undertaken during the 2024/25 financial year. This resulted in a cumulative revaluation adjustment of $225.3 million, which was recognised in the revaluation reserve.

·      Audit Focus Areas: The audit also addressed capital expenditure, information system upgrades, cyber security, general IT controls, and the approaching end date of the airport lease. The Committee requested that management provide ongoing updates on the airport lease and its implications for this key regional asset.

 

Financial Performance

·      Operating Result: Council reported a net operating surplus of approximately $28 million (inclusive of capital grants and contributions), representing a significant improvement from the prior year’s deficit of $2.6 million.

 

·      Cash Position: As at 30 June 2025, Council held $309 million in cash, cash equivalents, and investments. Of this:

o  $219 million is subject to external restrictions

o  $76 million is subject to internal restrictions

o  $14 million remains unrestricted

 

Committee Acknowledgement

The Committee commended the Finance Team for the high quality of financial reporting and expressed appreciation to Council staff and the NSW Audit Office for their efforts in preparing for and conducting the audit.

 

Carolyn Rosetta-Walsh

Independent Chairperson

Audit Risk and Improvement Committee

Wagga Wagga City Council

 

Council has granted certain authorities to the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee within the scope of its role and responsibilities, as defined within its Charter. As an advisory committee to Council, the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee has no authority to action items that may have a budget and/or resource implication outside of this authority unless Council resolves to adopt the recommendations.

Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee Charter

 

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

 

The Committee considered matters relating to their role in providing independent assurance and assistance to Council on risk management, as outlined in the attached Minutes and which included consideration of Council’s Corporate Strategic Risk Register.

ARIC Chairperson and Committee members

 

 

 

 

 

1⇩.

Minutes - Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee Meeting - 24 October 2025.

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 17 November 2025

M-1

 

  

 

Report submitted to the Confidential Meeting of Council on Monday 17 November 2025

CONF-1

 

Confidential Reports

CONF-1         36-40 GURWOOD STREET, WAGGA WAGGA - EXPRESSION OF INTEREST OUTCOME REPORT

Author:         Matthew Dombrovski 

Executive:    Fiona Piltz

 

This report is CONFIDENTIAL in accordance with Section 10A(2) of the Local Government Act 1993, which permits the meeting to be closed to the public for business relating to the following: -

(c)          information that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the Council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business; and

(d) (i)     commercial information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed, prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it.        

 

 

Report submitted to the Confidential Meeting of Council on Monday 17 November 2025

CONF-2

 

CONF-2         ORGANISATION STRUCTURE

Author:         Peter Thompson 

 

This report is CONFIDENTIAL in accordance with Section 10A(2) of the Local Government Act 1993, which permits the meeting to be closed to the public for business relating to the following: -

(a)         personnel matters concerning particular individuals.