Agenda and
Business Paper

 

Ordinary Meeting of Council

 

 

 

To be held on
Monday 23 February 2026

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 23 February 2026

ORDER OF BUSINESS:

CLAUSE               PRECIS                                                                                                 PAGE

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY                                                                                   3

REFLECTION                                                                                                                         3

APOLOGIES                                                                                                                          3

Confirmation of Minutes

CM-1           CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES - ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING - 9 FEBRUARY 2026                                                                                                                           3

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST                                                                                            3

Notices of Motions of Rescission

NOR-1         NOTICE OF RESCISSION - DA25/0067 - MOBILE TELECOMMUNICATIONS FACILITY, INCLUDING MONOPOLE AND COMPOUND                                                       4

Reports from Staff

RP-1            Development Application DA23/0598 - Livestock Processing Industry (Abattoir) - 2056 Oura Road, Oura                                                            7

RP-2            DA25/0488 - Multi dwelling housing (4 x 2 storey dwellings), 2 x swimming pools & community titled subdivision, Lot 69 DP 802097, 2 Neerim Close, Kooringal                                                                                                      18

RP-3            RESPONSE TO NOTICE OF MOTION - WAGGA WAGGA - KUNMING SISTER CITY INDUSTRY COOPERATION & INVESTMENT DELEGATION - REQUEST FOR REPORT                                                                                                                           24

RP-4            FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE REPORT AS AT 31 JANUARY 2026                      30

RP-5            GRANT FUNDING FOR THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF A BRIDGE REPLACEMENT AT HUMULA                                                                             69

RP-6            RESOLUTIONS AND NOTICES OF MOTIONS REGISTERS                                 73

RP-7            NSW ELECTORAL COMMISSION COUNT BACK PROCESS AND TIMEFRAME            75

RP-8            SUBMISSION OF MOTIONS - 2026 NATIONAL GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT ANNUAL CONFERENCE                                                            79

RP-9            QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE                                                                                82

Committee Minutes

M-1              CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES - WAGGA WAGGA AIRPORT SPECIAL PURPOSE COMMITTEE - 11 FEBRUARY 2026                                                                    87   

 

 

                                                                                                                                      

Confidential Reports

CONF-1       MAJOR EVENTS, FESTIVALS AND FILMS SPONSORSHIP ADVISORY PANEL MEMBERSHIP                                                                                                    92

CONF-2       PROPOSED WRITE OFF OF UNCOLLECTABLE RATES                                    93

CONF-3       FIRE SAFETY INSPECTION REPORTS - NSW FIRE COMMISSIONER                94

CONF-4       REQUEST TO WAIVE RATES AND CHARGES                                                   95

 

 

 

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 - 9 FEBRUARY 2026       

Recommendation That the Minutes of the proceedings of the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 9 February 2026 be confirmed as a true and accurate record.

 

 

 

1⇩.

Minutes - Ordinary Council Meeting - 9 February 2026.

96

 

 

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 23 February 2026

NOR-1

 

Notice of Motions of Rescission

NOR-1           NOTICE OF RESCISSION - DA25/0067 - MOBILE TELECOMMUNICATIONS FACILITY, INCLUDING MONOPOLE AND COMPOUND

Author:          Councillor Amelia Parkins

                        Councillor Richard Foley         

Councillor Jenny McKinnon  

 

Summary:

A Rescission Motion has been lodged by Councillors Parkins, McKinnon and Foley in relation to Council’s refusal of DA25/0067 – Mobile Telecommunications Facility at 20 Kapooka Road, San Isidore. The motion seeks to rescind the previous resolution and defer determination of the development application pending a site inspection by available Councillors.

 

 

That Council:

a       rescinds Resolution No. 26/019 from the 9 February 2026 Ordinary Council Meeting, which reads as follows:

i     That the Council refuse DA25/0067 ‘Mobile Telecommunications Facility, Including Monopole and Compound’ at Lot 2 DP 731292, 20 Kapooka Road, San Isidore for the following reasons. Issues have been raised about contamination of uncontaminated land by PFAS through stormwater flows. With knowledge that stormwater will be displaced by the structure it is not appropriate to approve the structure without the decision makers having the technical information that the environmental impact will be managed in a way that leads to approve the development. Unacceptable visual impact also forms part of the refusal.

b       defer determination of DA25/0067 ‘Mobile Telecommunications Facility, Including Monopole and Compound’ at Lot 2 DP 731292, 20 Kapooka Road, San Isidore, pending a site inspection by available councillors.

 

A Notice of Rescission has been submitted by Councillors Parkins, McKinnon and Foley in accordance with section 372 of the Local Government Act 1993 (NSW) and Council’s Code of Meeting Practice, seeking to rescind Resolution No. 26/019 of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on 9 February 2026 relating to DA25/0067 – Mobile Telecommunications Facility, including monopole and compound at Lot 2 DP 731292, 20 Kapooka Road, San Isidore.

 

The rescission motion has been lodged within the required timeframe and has the required number of supporting Councillors to be considered by Council.

 

The motion proposes that, should the rescission be supported, Council not only rescind the previous refusal but also adopt an alternate resolution to defer determination of the development application pending a site inspection by available Councillors.

 

Accordingly, the rescission motion, if carried, would have the effect of replacing the previous refusal with a deferral of the matter, rather than reopening the application for reconsideration without a proposed course of action.

 

If the rescission motion is not carried, Resolution No. 26/019 will remain in force and the previous Council decision to refuse the application will stand.

 

This report outlines the procedural implications of the rescission motion and the options available to Council should the motion be supported.

 

N/A

Code of Meeting Practice

State Environmental Planning Policy (Transport and Infrastructure) 2021

Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010

Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan 2010

Regional Leadership

Ethical Leadership

Deliver accountable and transparent leadership.

 

If the rescission motion is supported, Council will be required to reconsider its previous decision and adopt the alternate resolution. This may result in delays to the assessment process and may have implications for the applicant’s statutory timeframes.

 

If the rescission motion is not supported, the existing resolution to refuse the development application will remain in force.

 

There is also a risk associated with the defensibility of the current refusal should it be subject to legal challenge or appeal.

 

No additional consultation has been undertaken in relation to the rescission motion itself. The motion relates to a development application that has previously been subject to Council’s standard assessment processes, including internal technical assessment and consideration of relevant planning controls and submissions received during the public notification period.

 

 

 

 

1.	Notice of Rescission - DA25/0067 - Mobile telecommunications facility, including monopole and compound. - Provided under separate cover
2.	Original Report - DA250067 - Mobile telecommunications facility, including monopole and compound. - Provided under separate cover

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 23 February 2026

RP-1

 

Reports from Staff

RP-1               Development Application DA23/0598 - Livestock Processing Industry (Abattoir) - 2056 Oura Road, Oura

Author:                        Cameron Collins 

General Manager:    Peter Thompson

         

 

Summary:

The Development Application was lodged on 11 December 2023, seeking consent for a Livestock Processing Industry (Abattoir) for a throughput of 1,903 tonnes of live weight annually (cattle, sheep, and pigs), including an ancillary Solar Energy System, ancillary outbuildings, a wastewater treatment plant and associated storage tanks, landscaping works, and hardstand servicing and parking areas. The proposal is designated development under Schedule 3 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2021 (the Regulations) as it involves the slaughter of more than 750 tonnes of livestock weight per year. The proposal is also integrated development, as it requires an Environment Protection Licence (EPL) from the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997. The application was also referred to Water NSW, who confirmed that a Water Use Approval under Section 89 of the Water Management Act 2000 was not required. The development application was initially publicly exhibited from 30 January 2024 to 27 February 2024. Following the initial exhibition, the applicant submitted an amended development application on 26 July 2024 addressing issues raised in submissions and by agencies, including the EPA, altering the proposed method for treating and disposing of effluent on-site. The amended development application was publicly exhibited for a second period from 29 August 2024 to 26 September 2024 and was reported to Council on 10 March 2025. Procedural concerns were raised regarding the public notice and legislative references, leading Council to defer consideration. A further amendment was submitted on 14 May 2025 to correctly nominate the application as integrated development under Division 4.8 of the EP&A Act. From May until December 2025, the application was re-exhibited on three further occasions to address deficiencies in public notices and ensure compliance with notification requirements under the EP&A Act and Regulation. Approximately 500 submissions were received across all exhibition periods, comprising a mix of objections and support. Under Section 1.10 of the Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan 2010 (DCP), where the number of submissions in the form of objections received in response to an advertised or notified development application is 10 or more, the application is required to be referred to Council for determination.   A full assessment has been completed in accordance with Section 4.15 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, considering all amendments, public submissions, and agency advice.   The development application is now reported to Council for determination.

 

 

That Council approve DA23/0598 for a Livestock Processing Facility (Abattoir) at 2056 Oura Road, subject to:

a       the conditions contained within the attached s4.15 Assessment Report; and

b       the General Terms of Approval, including the livestock processing limit condition (Condition L6.1), as issued by the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) under Notice Number 1636833 dated 18 December 2024.

 

Applicant	Adam Brayshaw Eringoarrah Pty Ltd
Owner	Eringoarrah Pty Ltd Director – Andrew Parry-Okeden
Development Cost	$11,567,926.70
Development Description	Livestock Processing Industry (Abattoir) for a throughput of 1,903 tonnes of live weight annually, including an ancillary Solar Energy System, ancillary outbuildings, a wastewater treatment plant and associated storage tanks, landscaping works, and hardstand servicing and parking areas.

 

Key Issues

 

·      Wastewater treatment and effluent management

·      Surface and groundwater impacts

·      Air quality (odour and dust)

·      Visual impact on the locality

·      Heritage impacts

·      Flood and stormwater management

·      Traffic and access

 

Site Location

 

The development site comprises 8.2 ha of RU1 – Primary Production zoned land and is located on Oura Road, around 5 km from the village of Oura and 20 km from the Wagga Wagga central business district (CBD). The site is legally described as Lot 8 DP 114170, Lot 10 DP 114170, Lot 137 DP 751397, Lot 139 DP 751397, Lot 142 DP 751397, Lot 51 DP 751423, Lot 81 DP 751423. Access to the development site is gained from an existing rural driveway from Oura Road.

 

The development site (the area of the land holding containing all elements of the development) is located on a property known as ‘Oura Station’. The property comprises livestock farming land, associated rural buildings, including a local heritage-listed federation homestead (‘Oura Station Homestead’), a pivot irrigation area and a drought feedlot.

Figure 1: The Site and Locality (Source: Google Maps, 2025)

Oura Station forms part of a larger property known as ‘Eringoarrah’ (owned by the applicant, Eringoarrah Pty Ltd), covering 7,747 hectares between Oura and Wantabadgery. Eringoarrah is currently used for the grazing of livestock and the production of fodder crops.

 

Assessment

·     The applicant is seeking development consent for a Livestock Processing Industry (Abattoir) for a throughput of 1,903 tonnes of live weight annually (cattle, sheep, and pigs).

 

·     The Development also includes an ancillary Solar Energy System, ancillary outbuildings, a wastewater treatment plant and associated storage tanks, landscaping works, and hardstand servicing and parking areas.

 

·     The proposal is considered designated development under Schedule 3 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2021, as it involves the slaughter of more than 750 tonnes of livestock weight per year. As the development is designated, the applicant has prepared an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) in accordance with the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure’s Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements (SEARs).

 

·     The proposal is integrated development pursuant to Division 4.8 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 and clause 23 of Schedule 1 of the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997, requiring an Environment Protection Licence (EPL) from the Environment Protection Authority (EPA). The EPA has issued General Terms of Approval (GTAs) for the development.

 

·     The application was also referred to Water NSW as integrated development. Water NSW confirmed that a Water Use Approval under Section 89 of the Water Management Act 2000 was not required.

 

·     The facility comprises the following main components:

Figure 2: Development Footprint

Figure 3: Perspective View of the Proposal (Source: Icono Building Design)

·      The application is primarily for the purpose of processing cattle grazed on the farm holding known as Eringoarrah (i.e. animals that are bred, born, raised and/or finished on the farm holding). The processing of sheep and pigs to be grazed on the farm holding in the future forms part of the development application, but no timeline for the introduction of these animals has been proposed.

 

·      The facility will operate six days a week from 6 am to 6 pm, employing 10 full-time and two part-time staff. 

 

·      The original application was notified from 30/01/2024 to 27/02/2024. As a result of concerns raised by the EPA and in public submissions regarding effluent treatment and disposal, the applicant submitted an amendment to the application. The amendment proposed an alternative method for treatment of effluent prior to its reuse for surface irrigation over the site.

 

·      The amended development application was publicly exhibited for a second period from 29 August 2024 to 26 September 2024 and was reported to Council on 10 March 2025. Procedural concerns were raised regarding the public notice and legislative references, leading Council to defer consideration.

 

·      The application was re-exhibited on three further occasions between May and December 2025. The renotification was required to address deficiencies in public notices and ensure compliance with notification requirements under the EP&A Act and Regulation.

 

·      Approximately 500 submissions were received across all exhibition periods, comprising a mix of objections and support. A redacted copy of all submissions is provided as an attachment to this report. All submissions and agency advice have been considered in full in the attached Section 4.15 Assessment Report.

 

·      The proposal is consistent with the objectives of the RU1 – Primary Production zone under the WWLEP. It represents a unique and diverse primary industry enterprise in Wagga Wagga. The siting, design, and scale of buildings are sensitive to the rural character of the area and minimise impacts on adjoining land uses.

 

·      The EPA has issued General Terms of Approval (GTAs) requiring a Wastewater Management Plan and Groundwater Monitoring Plan to manage wastewater generation, treatment and irrigation. These include trigger levels requiring additional mitigation if exceeded. The EPA is satisfied wastewater impacts can be managed subject to consent conditions and EPL requirements.

 

·      The proposed WWTP is capable of effectively treating effluent for irrigation reuse, including provision of adequate wet weather storage to prevent oversaturation of irrigation areas.

 

·      Solid wastes generated from processing, including biosolids, paunch and WWTP sludge, will be managed under the EPA EPL and disposed of at licensed off-site facilities.

 

·      Air quality assessment indicates dust and particulate levels will remain below relevant criteria at all receptors. The EPA raised no concerns and imposed no air quality GTAs or conditions.

 

·      EPA review of odour modelling identified no issues. GTAs require preparation of an Air Quality Management Plan prior to operations commencing.

 

·      Visual impacts are expected to be minor and consistent with rural building groupings and rural architectural character. Conditions require a final building colour palette and detailed landscaping plan to further minimise impacts.

 

·      Flood impacts, including up to PMF events, are considered negligible subject to preparation of a Flood Emergency Response Plan.

 

·      Traffic generation is low, with approximately six heavy vehicle product collection movements per week. The road network can accommodate the development, subject to upgrading the site access to Oura Road.

 

·      On balance, the development application has merit, and potential environmental impacts can be effectively mitigated through recommended conditions of consent and compliance with the EPA’s GTAs. The proposal is considered to be in the public interest and is now reported to Council for determination.

 

Reasons for Approval

 

1.    The proposed development is consistent with the applicable objectives and clauses of the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010.

 

2.    The proposed development is consistent with the objectives and controls of the Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan 2010.

 

3.    The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has issued General Terms of Approval (GTAs) for the development with respect to a required Environment Protection Licence (EPL) under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997.

 

4.    The impacts of the proposed development are acceptable and can be managed via the recommended conditions of consent and the requirements of an EPL as detailed in the GTAs granted by the NSW EPA.

 

5.    The site is considered suitable for the proposed development having regard to the site’s zoning, separation from sensitive receivers, rural setting, access to infrastructure, and ability to accommodate wastewater treatment, irrigation and associated operational requirements.

 

6.    The development is considered to be in the public interest, having regard to the outcomes of the environmental assessment undertaken in accordance with Section 4.15 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the consideration of agency advice and public submissions, and the ability for environmental and amenity impacts to be appropriately managed through conditions of consent and regulatory approvals.

 

 

1	DA23 0598 - Section 4.15 Assessment Report – as below
2	DA23 0598 - EPA Response & General Terms of Approval
3	DA23 0598 - Correspondence - Development Application DA23/0598
4	DA23 0598 - Correspondence - Development Application DA23/0598
5	DA23 0598 - Correspondence - Response to Request for Additional Information
6	DA23 0598 - Correspondence - Cover Letter to Summarise Updates to Martens Reports: DA23/0598 Proposed Livestock Processing Facility at 2052 Oura Rd, OURA
7	DA23 0598 - Correspondence - Development Application (1)
8	DA23 0598 - Correspondence - Development Application (2)
9	DA23 0598 - Environmental Impact Statement
10	DA23 0598 - Addendum to Environmental Impact Statement
11	DA23/0598 - Site Survey
12	DA23 0598 - Architectural Drawings
13	DA23 0598 - Site Plan Solar Array
14	DA23 0598 - Landscape Plans
15	DA23 0598 - Civil Drawings
16	DA23 0598 - Onsite Wastewater Management Strategy
17	DA23 0598 - Correspondence DA23/0598 - Onsite Wastewater Management Strategy
18	DA23 0598 - Groundwater Assessment Report cover
19	DA23 0598 - Supplementary Groundwater Assessment
20	DA23 0598 - Water Balance Assessment
21	DA23 0598 - Waste Management Plan
22	DA23 0598 - Air Quality Impact Assessment
23	DA23 0598 - Addendum to Air Quality Impact Assessment
24	DA23 0598 - Noise Impact Report
25	DA23 0598 - Correspondence - Addendum to Noise Impact Assessment
26	DA23 0598 - Archaeological Technical Report
27	DA23 0598 - Correspondence (Archaeological)
28	DA23 0598 - Heritage Impact Assessment
29	DA23 0598 - Biodiversity Assessment Report
30	DA23 0598 - Correspondence (Biodiversity)
31	DA23 0598 - Bushfire Assessment Report
32	DA23 0598 - Flood Assessment
33	DA23 0598 - SEPP Preliminary Risk Screening Report
34	DA23 0598 - Correspondence - Addendum to SEPP (Resilience and Hazards) 2021
35	DA23 0598 - Preliminary Site Investigation
36	DA23 0598 - Detailed Site Investigation
37	DA23 0598 - Traffic Impact Assessment
38	DA23 0598 - Traffic Statement
39	DA23 0598 - Land Use Conflict Risk Assessment
40	DA23 0598 - Biosecurity Management Plan: Small Scale Livestock Processing Facility
41	DA23 0598 - Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment
42	DA23 0598 - Memorandum relating to the Oura Meat Processing Facility & Solar Farm
43	DA23 0598 - Glint & Glare Assessment Report
44	DA23 0598 - Operational Management Plan
45	DA23 0598 - Construction Environmental Management Plan
46	DA23 0598 - Building Certification Assessment Report
47	DA23 0598 - Access Performance Solution Report
48	DA23 0598 - Registered Quantity Surveyor's Capital Investment Report
49	DA23 0598 - Section 7.12 Infrastructure Contribution
50	DA23 0598 - Redacted Submissions - First Notification Period
51	DA23 0598 - Redacted Submissions - Second Notification Period
52	DA23 0598 - Redacted Submissions - Third Notification Period
53	DA23 0598 - Redacted Submissions - Fourth Notification Period
54	DA23 0598 - Redacted Submissions - Fifth Notification Period

 

N/A

 

Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010

Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan 2010

Sustainable

Sustainable built environment

Balance the built and natural environment in planning decisions.

Approval of the application is not considered to raise risk management issues for Council as the proposed development is generally consistent with LEP and DCP controls.

Full details of the notification and consultation that occurred as part of the development application assessment is contained in the attached s4.15 Report.

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

x

x

Involve

Collaborate

Other methods (please list specific details below)

 

 

 

1.

DA23 0598 - Section 4.15 Assessment Report - Provided under separate cover

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 23 February 2026

RP-2

 

RP-2               DA25/0488 - Multi dwelling housing (4 x 2 storey dwellings), 2 x swimming pools & community titled subdivision, Lot 69 DP 802097, 2 Neerim Close, Kooringal

Author:                        Giles Wong 

General Manager:    Peter Thompson

         

 

Summary:

The Development Application is for 2 storey dwellings, 2 swimming pools, associated retaining walls, and community title subdivision.   The application was notified on 2 occasions (23 October 2025 to 6 November 2025 and 22 January to 6 February 2026. A total of 12 public submissions in objection to the application were received.   Section 1.10 of the Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan 2010 requires any application that is subject to 10 or more objections be referred to Council for Determination.   A full assessment of the development application is provided as an attachment to this report. The assessment has considered and addressed all relevant matters raised in the submissions.

 

 

That Council approve DA25/0488 for a ‘Multi dwelling housing (4 x 2 storey dwellings), 2 x swimming pools & community titled subdivision’ at Lot 69 DP 802097, 2 Neerim Close, Kooringal, subject to the conditions outlined in the attached s4.15 Assessment Report.

 

 

Applicant	Clifford John Curtain
Owner	Clifford John Curtain, Helen Dorothy Curtain, and Kain John Curtain,
Development Cost	$1,200,000
Development Description	Multi dwelling housing (4 x 2 storey dwellings), 2 x swimming pools & community titled subdivision

 

Key Issues

·    Context and Setting

·    Overlooking, overshadowing, and privacy impacts

·    Traffic impacts

 

Site Location

The subject site is legally known as lot 69 DP 802097 and is commonly known as 2 Neerim Close, Kooringal. The site is located on the southwestern side of Neerim Close approximately 26m northwest from the intersection between Neerim Close and Henwood Avenue. The lot is irregular in shape and has an area of 1731m2. The site is heavily sloped with a fall of approximately 11m from the northeastern most corner to the southwestern most corner of the lot.

 

The proposal is located within an established residential area characterised by single dwelling low density residential development.

 

 

Assessment

A full assessment is in the attached Section 4.15 Assessment Report which assesses all relevant matters in detail. The following is a summary of the assessment.

 

·    The application is for 4 x 2 storey dwellings, 2 swimming pools, associated retaining walls, and community title subdivision.

 

 

·    The proposal satisfies the relevant provisions of the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010 and is permissible with consent within the R1 General Residential zone particularly in providing additional housing supply and contributing to housing diversity within an established residential area.

·    The proposal is generally consistent with the relevant provisions and objectives of the Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan 2010, including controls relating to site layout, streetscape presentation, access, parking, landscaping, privacy, solar access, and development on sloping land.

·    The development has been designed to respond appropriately to the steeply sloping nature of the site through the use of cut and fill, stepped building design, and retaining structures, reducing visual bulk and minimising impacts on adjoining properties.

·    The development provides appropriate setbacks, screening, and design responses to mitigate potential overlooking, overshadowing, and privacy impacts on adjoining properties, resulting in acceptable residential amenity outcomes.

·    The proposal provides adequate on-site parking and safe vehicular access arrangements in accordance with the Development Control Plan and relevant Australian Standards.

·    Stormwater management measures, including on-site detention and connection to Council’s drainage infrastructure, will appropriately manage overland flow and are expected to reduce existing uncontrolled runoff impacts on adjoining properties.

·    The site is considered suitable for the proposed development having regard to its zoning, size, location, servicing availability, and absence of environmental or heritage constraints.

·    The development will not result in any unacceptable impacts on the natural or built environment and is not expected to result in unreasonable impacts in relation to traffic, noise, air quality, or local infrastructure.

·    The proposal incorporates appropriate bushfire protection measures consistent with Planning for Bush Fire Protection 2019 and achieves a BAL-12.5 construction standard.

·    The development will provide positive social and economic benefits, including contributing to local housing supply and supporting employment during construction.

·    A total of 12 submissions were received during the notification periods, all in objection to the proposal. All matters raised in the submissions have been considered in the assessment of the application.

·    The proposal is considered to be in the public interest.

 

Reasons for Approval

 

·    The proposed development is permissible with consent in the R1 General Residential zone and is consistent with the objectives of the zone, including providing additional housing supply and diversity.

·    The development is generally consistent with the relevant provisions of the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010, applicable State Environmental Planning Policies, and the Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan 2010.

·    The site is suitable for the proposed development, having regard to its zoning, size, location, servicing availability, and site constraints.

·    The development has been designed to appropriately respond to the sloping nature of the site and provides acceptable outcomes in relation to streetscape, bulk and scale, privacy, solar access, and residential amenity.

·    Potential environmental and amenity impacts, including stormwater, traffic, noise, and earthworks, can be appropriately managed through design measures and conditions of consent.

·    The development is considered to be in the public interest.

N/A

 

State Environmental Planning Policy (Sustainable Buildings) 2022

Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010

Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan 2010

Sustainable

Sustainable built environment

Balance the built and natural environment in planning decisions.

 

Approval of the application is not considered to raise risk management issues for Council as the proposed development is generally consistent with the LEP and DCP controls.

 

Full details of the consultation that was carried out as part of the development application assessment is contained in the attached s4.15 Report.

 

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

Consult

x

x

Involve

Collaborate

 

 

1.	DA25-0488 - Section 4.15 Assessment Report - Provided under separate cover
2.	DA25-0488 - Submitted SEE - Provided under separate cover
3.	DA25-0488 - Submitted SEE (Appendix) - Provided under separate cover
4.	DA25-0488 - Site Plan - Provided under separate cover
5.	DA25-0488 - Drainage, Subdivision & Landscape Plans - Provided under separate cover
6.	DA25-0488 - Dwelling 1 Floor Plans & Elevations - Provided under separate cover
7.	DA25-0488 - Dwellings 2 & 3 Floor Plans & Elevations - Provided under separate cover
8.	DA25-0488 - Dwelling 4 Floor Plans & Elevations - Provided under separate cover
9.	DA25-0488 - Shadow Diagrams - Provided under separate cover
10.	DA25-0488 - Engineering - Layout Plan - Provided under separate cover
11.	DA25-0488 - Engineering - Bulk Earthwork Plan - Provided under separate cover
12.	DA25-0488 - Engineering - Stormwater Plan - Provided under separate cover
13.	DA25-0488 - Submissions (Redacted) - Provided under separate cover

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 23 February 2026

RP-3

 

RP-3               RESPONSE TO NOTICE OF MOTION - WAGGA WAGGA - KUNMING SISTER CITY INDUSTRY COOPERATION & INVESTMENT DELEGATION - REQUEST FOR REPORT

Author:          Peter Thompson 

         

 

Summary:

This report is provided in response to the resolution of Council at the Ordinary Meeting of 9 February 2026 regarding a proposed Wagga Wagga–Kunming Sister City Industry Cooperation and Investment Delegation.   The report provides preliminary advice in relation to the proposal, including consideration of foreign policy alignment and engagement protocols, strategic merit, financial and resourcing implications, governance and risk matters and the need for stakeholder consultation.   Further work is required to clarify objectives, seek appropriate advice from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and assess risks, costs and local stakeholder interest prior to any future consideration by Council.

 

 

That Council:

a       direct the General Manager to prepare a detailed package of goals and objectives to be achieved if a delegation to Kunming is pursued

b       request the General Manager seek advice from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade regarding foreign policy alignment, engagement protocols and any risks associated with a proposed delegation

c        receive a further report at the second meeting in April outlining the outcomes of (a) and (b) and any implications for Council participation

 

At its Ordinary Meeting of 9 February 2026, Council resolved the following:

NOM-3      NOTICE OF MOTION – WAGGA WAGGA - KUNMING SISTER CITY INDUSTRY COOPERATION & INVESTMENT DELEGATION - REQUEST FOR REPORT

26/001       RESOLVED:           On the Motion of Councillors R Foley and L Tanner That Council: a       note the attached six-day proposal for a Wagga Wagga–Kunming Sister City Industry Cooperation & Investment Delegation proposed for April 2026 b       request the General Manager prepare a report for Council consideration addressing: i         advice from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) regarding foreign policy alignment, travel advisories, security considerations, and appropriate engagement protocols with Chinese government entities ii        the strategic merit of the proposed delegation in the context of the Wagga Wagga–Kunming sister city relationship and Council’s economic development objectives iii       the financial, logistical, and resourcing implications for Council, including any estimated costs associated with Councillor and/or staff participation, cost-sharing arrangements, and potential external funding opportunities iv      a risk assessment covering governance, financial, and travel risks, including due diligence on proposed hosts, facilitators, and counterpart organisations v       the outcomes of consultation with relevant local industry groups, educational and vocational institutions, and business chambers to assess interest and their potential participation vi      any legal, governance, or policy considerations associated with proposed memoranda of understanding or letters of intent, noting that any such documents would be non-binding and subject to Council approval c       request that the report be presented to Council at the earliest practicable meeting, and no later than 28 February 2026, to enable Council to consider whether to proceed with participation in a proposed April 2026 delegation CARRIED

 

This report responds to that resolution and provides an initial assessment of the proposal. It is intended to inform Council and support further consideration of the matter. Council is not being asked to make a decision regarding participation in the proposed delegation at this stage.

 

The sections below provide responses to each of the matters identified in Council’s resolution.

 

(i) Advice from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) regarding foreign policy alignment, travel advisories, security considerations, and appropriate engagement protocols with Chinese government entities

 

The Sister City relationship with Kunming is registered with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), which has an oversight role in relation to agreements between local government authorities and foreign entities.

 

At the moment there is insufficient detail in relation to the proposed delegation. If Council proceeds with a proposed delegation we will liaise with DFAT on the basis of

 

 

the specific timing and goals of the delegation. Ultimately, DFAT will also review proposed agreements between Council and entities in China.

 

(ii) The strategic merit of the proposed delegation in the context of the Wagga Wagga–Kunming sister city relationship and Council’s economic development objectives

 

Wagga Wagga is located in the food bowl of Australia and will soon enjoy close proximity to four international airports (Western Sydney, Canberra, Sydney and Melbourne.

 

We are also well located on the Inland Rail route with ease of freight movements to Port Botany and Port of Melbourne. We have existing close communication with Executive Management at both Ports.

 

Add to this the strategic intent of the Special Activation Preceint for food processing and manufacturing and there is clear strategic benefit in exploring ties with a Country having one of the largest populations on earth.

 

A trip in April is however premature. Any trip of this nature should have clearly defined objectives. These should be aligned with the policy and strategy of the Australian Government.

 

The types of issues which might be explored are food export including meat, fresh foods, fruit, powdered products such as milk, wines and distilled spirits. Industry associations would no doubt be able to provide data on available product and supply consideration. This work needs to be done to prepare for a delegation visit.

 

Conversely, we should also identify what products might be attractive to import from Kunming. A reciprocal freight task should be attractive from a logistics perspective

To progress strategic merit we should gather high level data on the types of products we might supply, supply chain issues and transport logistics

 

(iii) the financial, logistical, and resourcing implications for Council, including any estimated costs associated with Councillor and/or staff participation, cost-sharing arrangements, and potential external funding opportunities

 

At this stage, detailed financial, logistical and resourcing implications cannot be confirmed as the scope, objectives and composition of any delegation have not been determined.

 

Preliminary high-level considerations include:

·    Economy return flights; and

·    accommodation costs.

 

Accommodation would be arranged in consultation with the Kunming Government. Estimated 7 Days duration. It is unlikely that Australian Government funding would be available for the delegation. It would be useful, however, to identify possible funding opportunities to support actions arising from the delegation.

 

 

Preliminary indicative estimates suggest participation costs could be in the order of $6,000 per delegate. Further detail would be provided in a future report should the proposal progress.

 

(iv) A risk assessment covering governance, financial, and travel risks, including due diligence on proposed hosts, facilitators, and counterpart organisations

 

A risk assessment can be undertaken when the purpose, timing, location and stakeholders in the delegation are known and confirmed.

 

(v) the outcomes of consultation with relevant local industry groups, educational and vocational institutions, and business chambers to assess interest and their potential participation

 

These consultations have not yet occurred and will form part of a future report to Council.

 

(vi) any legal, governance, or policy considerations associated with proposed memoranda of understanding or letters of intent, noting that any such documents would be non-binding and subject to Council approval

 

Beyond the usual governance requirements in relation to local government (approval of overseas travel, Councillor approval of policy and financial commitments and public notification of things such as grant of financial assistance) the Commonwealth Government also has a role in overseeing agreements with effect in other Countries.

 

Since consideration of this matter at the Ordinary Meeting of Council on 9 February 2026, Council officers have made preliminary contact with representatives associated with the proposed itinerary, as well as Austrade, to obtain background information.

 

The proposed travel window of 20–25 April 2026 is not considered achievable to ensure appropriate preparation and the best possible outcomes from any delegation. A timeframe for any future delegation would be determined once clear objectives and supporting information have been developed to inform discussions in Kunming.

 

Preliminary high-level estimates suggest participation costs could be in the order of $6,000 per delegate.

 

Detailed costings will be provided in a future report if the proposal progresses.

Local Government Act 1993

Councillor Payment and Expenses Policy (POL 025)

Wagga Wagga City Council Code of Conduct

Wagga Wagga City Council Code of Meeting Practice

 

 

 

Regional Leadership

Ethical Leadership

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

 

Key risks include reputational considerations, geopolitical sensitivities, unclear economic return, resourcing impacts and stakeholder perception of overseas travel. These will be assessed in detail should the proposal progress.

Preliminary internal consultation has occurred. External consultation with industry, education and business stakeholders has not yet commenced and would occur if Council resolves to further investigate the proposal.

 

  

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 23 February 2026

RP-4

 

RP-4               FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE REPORT AS AT 31 JANUARY 2026

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 January 2026.

 

 

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 31 December 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 January 2026 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 January 2026.

 

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 31 December 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 January when compared to budget ($432,924 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 87% of approved budget and is exceeding the budget due to the rates and annual charges being raised at the start of the year. Excluding the rates amount, operating income received is 68% when compared to budget which is as a result of increased interest on investments.

 

OPERATING EXPENSES

Total operating expenditure is 62% 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 161% 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.

 

CAPITAL EXPENDITURE

Total capital expenditure including commitments is 89% of approved budget. This mainly relates to the raising of the full amount of the AIF contract against the multi-year budget. Excluding commitments, the total expenditure is 30% when compared to the approved budget.

 

 

*This table does not include any proposed draft 2026/27 LTFP budget adjustments.

 

 

 

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 January 2026	$0K $0K $0K
Proposed Revised Budget result for 31 January 2026 - (Surplus) / Deficit	$0K

 

The proposed Operating and Capital Budget Variations for 31 January 2026 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	$63,736,902	$635,000	$64,371,902
Recurrent	$38,211,602	$0	$38,211,602
Total Capital Works	$101,948,504	$635,000	$102,583,504

 

 

 

Council have been advised by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts of an adjustment to future Roads to Recovery funding. There is no reduction in the total amount of funds being received over the three (3) financial years, but rather a redistribution of when the funds will be received across the years.

 

Job No.	Project Title	2026/27 Current Budget	2026/27 Proposed Budget	2027/28 Current Budget	2027/28 Proposed Budget	2028/29 Current Budget	2028/29 Proposed Budget
16532	Pavement Rehab Program	$6,883,072	$6,121,448	$7,532,347	$8,342,971	$7,676,363	$7,627,363

 

Current Restrictions

 

RESERVES SUMMARY
31 JANUARY 2026
	CLOSING BALANCE 2024/25	ADOPTED RESERVE TRANSFERS 2025/26	BUDGET VARIATIONS APPROVED UP TO COUNCIL MEETING 19.01.2026	PROPOSED CHANGES for Council Resolution*	BALANCE AS AT 31 JANUARY 2026
Externally Restricted
Developer Contributions - Section 7.11	(34,255,170)	240,743	1,853,473		(32,160,955)
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)	3,892,130		(57,880,315)
Solid Waste	(35,184,093)	2,571,122	3,431,559	635,000	(28,546,413)
Specific Purpose Unexpended Grants & Contributions	(64,727,816)	0	64,727,816		0
SRV Levee Reserve	(6,230,711)	0	50,000		(6,180,711)
Stormwater Levy	(5,711,474)	2,343,245	(1,757,647)		(5,125,876)
Total Externally Restricted	(218,841,407)	4,024,930	72,248,331	635,000	(141,933,146)
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	601,070		(2,965,032)
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	50,000	(3,200,550)
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	(3,270,503)		(8,244,302)
Museum Acquisitions	(67,114)	0	0		(67,114)

 

 

 

 

 

Investment Summary as at 31 January 2026

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 31/12/2025 $	Closing Balance Invested 31/01/2026 $	January EOM Current Yield %	January EOM % of Portfolio	Investment Date	Maturity Date	Term (months)
At Call Accounts
NAB	AA-	54,385	0	0.00%	0.00%	N/A	N/A	N/A
CBA	AA-	7,166,868	3,690,330	3.60%	1.20%	N/A	N/A	N/A
CBA	AA-	29,314,632	29,399,508	3.65%	9.56%	N/A	N/A	N/A
Macquarie Bank	A+	10,306,741	10,336,075	3.40%	3.36%	N/A	N/A	N/A
CBA	AA-	49,988,875	50,046,473	3.60%	16.27%	N/A	N/A	N/A
Total At Call Accounts		96,831,501	93,472,386	3.59%	30.39%
Short Term Deposits
Bank of Sydney	NR	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.22%	0.65%	30/06/2025	30/06/2026	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
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.50%	0.65%	28/11/2025	30/11/2026	12
Police Credit Union	NR	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.50%	0.33%	28/11/2025	30/11/2026	12
P&N Bank	BBB+	3,000,000	3,000,000	4.80%	0.98%	15/12/2025	15/12/2026	12
Total Short Term Deposits		20,000,000	20,000,000	4.60%	6.50%
Medium Term Deposits
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.32%	0.65%	28/06/2021	29/06/2026	60
ICBC	A	3,000,000	3,000,000	5.07%	0.98%	30/06/2022	30/06/2027	60
NAB	AA-	2,000,000	0	0.00%	0.00%	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
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
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.93%	0.65%	5/01/2026	5/01/2029	36
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	0	0.00%	0.00%	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+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.15%	0.65%	21/10/2025	21/10/2027	24
Police Credit Union	NR	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.55%	0.33%	14/11/2025	15/11/2027	24
Police Credit Union	NR	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.56%	0.65%	17/11/2025	17/11/2028	36
Westpac	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.45%	0.33%	20/11/2025	20/11/2028	36
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.53%	0.65%	28/11/2025	28/11/2028	36
Westpac	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.66%	0.33%	4/12/2025	4/12/2028	36
Westpac	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.64%	0.33%	8/12/2025	8/12/2027	24
P&N Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.90%	0.65%	15/12/2025	15/12/2027	24
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.79%	0.65%	15/12/2025	15/12/2028	36
Police Credit Union	NR	0	1,000,000	4.76%	0.33%	8/01/2026	10/01/2028	24
Westpac	AA-	0	2,000,000	4.82%	0.65%	29/01/2026	31/01/2028	24
Total Medium Term Deposits		135,000,000	135,000,000	4.42%	43.89%
Floating Rate Notes
Newcastle Permanent	BBB+	1,009,238	1,013,541	BBSW + 100	0.33%	10/02/2022	10/02/2027	60
NAB	AA-	2,542,974	2,554,145	BBSW + 120	0.83%	25/11/2022	25/11/2027	60
Suncorp	AA-	1,116,217	1,121,349	BBSW + 125	0.36%	14/12/2022	14/12/2027	60
CBA	AA-	2,044,524	2,030,155	BBSW + 115	0.66%	13/01/2023	13/01/2028	60
Bank Australia	BBB+	1,925,527	1,933,425	BBSW + 155	0.63%	22/02/2023	22/02/2027	48
Bendigo-Adelaide Covered	AAA	1,014,514	1,019,435	BBSW + 115	0.33%	16/06/2023	16/06/2028	60
CBA	AA-	2,536,466	2,548,896	BBSW + 95	0.83%	17/08/2023	17/08/2028	60
ANZ	AA-	2,123,086	2,133,958	BBSW + 93	0.69%	11/09/2023	11/09/2028	60
Bank Australia	BBB+	1,674,363	1,659,818	BBSW + 150	0.54%	30/10/2023	30/10/2026	36
ANZ	AA-	2,541,466	2,555,011	BBSW + 96	0.83%	5/02/2024	5/02/2029	60
Suncorp	AA-	1,010,015	1,015,308	BBSW + 98	0.33%	19/03/2024	19/03/2029	60
ING Bank	A	503,037	505,077	BBSW + 95	0.16%	22/03/2024	22/03/2027	36
BoQ	A-	1,687,583	1,675,581	BBSW + 128	0.54%	30/04/2024	30/04/2029	60
Bendigo-Adelaide	A-	809,104	812,538	BBSW + 100	0.26%	14/05/2024	14/05/2027	36
ANZ	AA-	1,512,179	1,520,550	BBSW + 86	0.49%	18/06/2024	18/06/2029	60
Teachers Mutual	BBB+	908,693	912,192	BBSW + 130	0.30%	21/06/2024	21/06/2027	36
ING Bank	A	2,230,489	2,242,032	BBSW + 102	0.73%	20/08/2024	20/08/2029	60
CBA	AA-	1,517,185	1,525,537	BBSW + 87	0.50%	22/08/2024	22/08/2029	60
Suncorp	AA-	2,415,855	2,429,072	BBSW + 92	0.79%	27/09/2024	27/09/2029	60
Bendigo-Adelaide	A-	760,370	755,449	BBSW + 96	0.25%	24/10/2024	24/10/2028	48
ANZ	AA-	1,312,190	1,319,191	BBSW + 81	0.43%	18/02/2025	18/02/2030	60
Rabobank	A+	1,311,913	1,319,945	BBSW + 85	0.43%	20/02/2025	20/02/2030	60
The Bank of Nova Scotia	A+	2,019,306	2,033,855	BBSW + 140	0.66%	21/03/2025	21/03/2030	60
Suncorp	AA-	1,011,310	1,017,152	BBSW + 93	0.33%	21/05/2025	21/05/2030	60
Macquarie Bank	A+	1,415,608	1,407,621	BBSW + 82	0.46%	17/07/2025	17/07/2030	60
Total Floating Rate Notes		38,953,213	39,060,831		12.70%
Fixed Rate Bonds
ING Covered	AAA	738,338	740,650	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-	1,870,674	1,876,139	2.10%	0.61%	27/10/2021	27/10/2026	60
BoQ	A-	2,034,730	2,037,769	5.30%	0.66%	30/04/2024	30/04/2029	60
ANZ	AA-	1,211,587	1,212,132	4.65%	0.39%	18/02/2025	18/02/2030	60
The Bank of Nova Scotia	A+	2,017,434	2,025,056	5.23%	0.66%	21/03/2025	21/03/2030	60
Macquarie Bank	A+	1,695,065	1,659,199	4.37%	0.54%	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
Total Fixed Rate Bonds		17,567,828	17,550,946	2.88%	5.71%
Managed Funds
NSW Tcorp	NR	2,469,672	2,490,015	0.82%	0.81%	17/03/2014	1/01/2032	213
Total Managed Funds		2,469,672	2,490,015	0.82%	0.81%
TOTAL CASH ASSETS, CASH EQUIVALENTS & INVESTMENTS		310,822,214	307,574,178		100.00%

 

Council’s investment portfolio is dominated by Term Deposits, equating to approximately 50% of the portfolio across a broad range of counterparties. Cash equates to 30%, with Floating Rate Notes (FRNs) around 13%, fixed rate bonds around 6% 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 $310.82M to $307.57M. This decrease in portfolio balance is reflective of a number of capital works contract payments being made for works completed late in the 2025 calendar year.

 

 

Monthly Investment Movements

 

Redemptions/Sales – Council redeemed/sold the following investment securities during January 2026:

 

 

New Investments – Council purchased the following investment securities during January 2026:

 

 

Rollovers – Council rolled over the following investment security during January 2026:

 

 

 

Monthly Investment Performance

 

Interest/growth/capital gains/(losses) for the month totalled $1,119,206, which compares favourably with the budget for the period of $686,282 - outperforming budget for the month by $432,924.

 

Council’s outperformance to budget for January 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 $1,073,602 on this AIF funding received. As the project commences and the funding is spent, the monthly interest will reduce.

 

Council experienced a positive return on its NSW T-Corp Managed Fund for the month of January, with the fund returning +0.82% (or $20,343) with domestic (+1.78%) and international (+2.19%) shares being the main contributors to this month’s performance.

 

 

In comparison to the AusBond Bank Bill Index* of 3.64% (annualised), Council’s investment portfolio returned approximately 4.10% (annualised) for the month of January – outperforming the benchmark for the month.

 

Over the past year, Council’s investment portfolio has returned 4.16%, outperforming the AusBond Bank Bill index by 0.27%. Councils investment portfolio has continued to perform in line with the AusBond Bank Bill Index* over the longer-term time period, returning 3.96% per annum over the past 3 years – slightly underperforming the benchmark by -0.16% 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.
2⇩.	Quarterly Budget Review Statement - December 2025.