Agenda of Ordinary Meeting of Council

Reports submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council to be held on Tuesday 9 June 2026.

Ordinary Meeting of Council AGENDA AND BUSINESS PAPER

Tuesday 9 June 2026

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 MAY 2026 2

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST 2

Reports from Staff

RP-1 CODE OF MEETING PRACTICE 3

RP-2 LEP25/0001 - SECONDARY DWELLING AMENDMENTS - OUTCOMES OF EXHIBITION AND FINALISATION 6

RP-3 Section 3.22 Expedited Amendment - Essential Services Clause 68

RP-4 LAKE ALBERT ALGAE MANAGEMENT TRIAL OUTCOMES 71

RP-5 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN 2026-2028 79

RP-6 APPLICATIONS FOR SUBSIDY FOR WASTE DISPOSAL FOR CHARITY ORGANISATIONS - 2026/27 FINANCIAL YEAR 118

RP-7 ADDITIONAL FEES & CHARGES FOR 2026/27 121

RP-8 QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE 124

Committee Minutes

M-1 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES - WAGGA WAGGA AIRPORT SPECIAL PURPOSE COMMITTEE - 20 MAY 2026 132

Confidential Reports

CONF-1 LAKE ALBERT ALGAE MANAGEMENT 145

CONF-2 FUNDING AGREEMENT 146

CONF-3 NEW YEARS EVE 147

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 MAY 2026

Recommendation

That the Minutes of the proceedings of the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 25 May 2026 be confirmed as a true and accurate record.

Attachments

1 ⇩.

Minutes - Ordinary Council Meeting - 25 May 2026

148

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Tuesday 9 June 2026

RP-1

Reports from Staff

RP-1 CODE OF MEETING PRACTICE

Author: Nicole Johnson

Executive: Scott Gray

Summary:

This report recommends that Council rescind Resolution 25/412 adopting the 2025 Code of Meeting Practice following the disallowance of the Local Government (General) Amendment (Model Code of Meeting Practice) Regulation 2025 by the NSW Legislative Council. The report also outlines advice received from the Office of Local Government regarding the continued application of the previously prescribed Model Code of Meeting Practice.

Recommendation

That Council:

a rescind Resolution 25/412 adopted at the Ordinary Meeting of Council on 15 December 2025, which adopted the Code of Meeting Practice 2025

b approve an amendment to the Ordinary Council Meeting commencement time to 5.30pm for the period June 2026 to December 2026

Report

At the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 15 December 2025, Council adopted a revised Code of Meeting Practice based on the 2025 Model Code of Meeting Practice prescribed by the Local Government (General) Amendment (Model Code of Meeting Practice) Regulation 2025.

On 27 May 2026, the Legislative Council disallowed the Local Government (General) Amendment (Model Code of Meeting Practice) Regulation 2025.

Subsequent advice received from the Office of Local Government (OLG) confirms that, pursuant to section 41(4) of the Interpretation Act 1987, the effect of the disallowance is that the amendments made by the Regulation cease to have effect and the provisions of the previously prescribed Model Code of Meeting Practice continue to apply.

The advice from OLG further notes that councils should rescind resolutions adopting the 2025 Model Code of Meeting Practice at the next available Council meeting to ensure consistency with section 360 of the Local Government Act 1993.

Accordingly, this report recommends that Council rescind Resolution 25/412, which adopted the revised Code of Meeting Practice based on the now disallowed 2025 Model Code of Meeting Practice. As more than three months have passed since Council adopted the current Code of Meeting Practice, the signatures of three councillors are not required to rescind the resolution.

The effect of the disallowance is that the previously prescribed Model Code of Meeting Practice continues to apply, including the removal of restrictions introduced under the 2025 Model Code relating to councillor workshops and briefing sessions and mandatory in-person attendance requirements for councillors participating remotely in meetings.

A copy of the previously adopted Code of Meeting Practice, based on the 2021 Model Code of Meeting Practice, is attached for Councillors’ reference.

No other amendments to Council’s Code of Meeting Practice are proposed as part of this report. Should Council wish to make further amendments to the applicable Code of Meeting Practice, including retaining supplementary provisions from the 2025 Code that are not inconsistent with the mandatory provisions of the 2021 Model Code, a draft amended Code would need to be publicly exhibited in accordance with section 361 of the Local Government Act 1993.

The Office of Local Government has also advised that the NSW Government is progressing a further updated Model Code of Meeting Practice, with formal advice to be provided to councils once drafting has been completed.

Council Meeting Commencement Time

Public participation through Public Address will now again be undertaken as part of the Ordinary Council Meeting rather than through a separate Public Forum held prior to the meeting. As a result, Council has the opportunity to reconsider the commencement time of Ordinary Council Meetings to better align with the revised meeting structure.

It is recommended that the commencement time of Ordinary Council Meetings be amended to 5.30pm for the period June 2026 to December 2026. This commencement time aligns with the start time of recent Public Forums and allows public participation to occur immediately prior to the consideration of Council business.

Should Council wish to retain the current 6.00pm commencement time, this may be resolved by Council through an amendment to the recommendation.

Financial Implications

N/A

Policy and Legislation

Local Government Act 1993

Local Government (General) Regulation 2021

Interpretation Act 1987

Wagga Wagga City Council Code of Meeting Practice

Link to Strategic Plan

Regional Leadership

Ethical Leadership

Deliver accountable and transparent leadership.

Risk Management Issues for Council

Failure to rescind the current 2025 Code of Meeting Practice may result in Council operating under provisions inconsistent with the mandatory requirements of the prescribed Model Code of Meeting Practice under section 360 of the Local Government Act 1993.

Reinstating the previous adopted Code of Meeting Practice ensures compliance with legislative requirements and provides certainty regarding meeting procedures for Council, committees and staff.

Internal / External Consultation

NSW Office of Local Government

Attachments

Code of Meeting Practice - Provided under separate cover

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Tuesday 9 June 2026

RP-2

RP-2 LEP25/0001 - SECONDARY DWELLING AMENDMENTS - OUTCOMES OF EXHIBITION AND FINALISATION

Author: Matthew Yeomans

Executive: Fiona Hamilton

Summary:

At the Ordinary Meeting of Council on 23 June 2025, Council resolved to support a planning proposal to amend clauses 5.4(9)(b) and 5.5(a)(ii) of the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010 to increase the maximum floor space area of secondary dwellings from 33% of the size of the principal dwelling to 65% of the size of the principal dwelling on both rural and non-rural land where secondary dwellings are a permissible land use.

A Gateway Determination approved the planning proposal to proceed subject to a public exhibition period.

The planning proposal was placed on exhibition from Monday 30 March 2026 to Friday 1 May 2026 and three (3) submissions were received.

The planning proposal is being reported back to Council detailing the outcomes of the exhibition recommending its finalisation.

Recommendation

That Council:

a note the submissions received in response to the public exhibition of the planning proposal LEP25/0001

b endorse the finalisation of the planning proposal to amend Clause 5.4(9)(b) and Clause 5.5(a)(ii) of the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010, the subject of this report under section 3.36 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979

c delegate authority to the General Manager (or their delegate) to make any minor amendments and corrections of a non-policy and administrative nature that may arise during the plan finalisation process relating to the planning proposal

Report

At the Ordinary Council Meeting of 23 June 2025 Council resolved to prepare and lodge a planning proposal seeking a Gateway Determination in accordance with section 3.34 of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act). The resolution is outlined below:

25/166 RESOLVED:

On the Motion of Councillors A Parkins and T Koschel

That Council:

a endorses the preparation of a Planning Proposal, as detailed in this report; and

i forwards it to the Minister for Planning seeking an Amendment to the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010 and requests that a Gateway Determination be issued, including the delegation of Plan making powers, so as to enable the public exhibition of the Planning Proposal pursuant to the EP&A Act 1979; and

ii upon receipt of a Gateway Determination under Section 3.34 of the EP&A Act 1979, Council places the Planning Proposal and any supporting material on public exhibition pursuant to any requirements of the Gateway Determination and Schedule 1, clause 4 of the EP&A Act 1979; and

iii should no objections be received, furnishes a copy of this report and other relevant information to the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment and/or NSW Parliamentary Counsels Office, in accordance with the EP&A Act 1979, and requests the Minister for Planning (or a delegate on their behalf) undertake the appropriate actions to secure the making of the amendment to the WLEP 2010.

CARRIED

The planning proposal is being reported back to Council based on the outcomes of the exhibition seeking finalisation of the Planning Proposal with the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) in accordance with section 3.36 of the EP&A Act.

Application details

Proposal:	Amendment to Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010: Clause 5.4 (9) & 5.5 – Secondary Dwelling Provisions
Applicant:	Wagga Wagga City Council

Planning Proposal

Council lodged the planning proposal (Attachment 1) with DPHI to amend the following clauses under the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010 (LEP):

· Clause 5.4(9)(b) to increase the maximum floor area of a secondary dwelling on land other than land in a rural zone from 33% of the floor area of the principal dwelling to 65% of the floor area of the principal dwelling; and,

· Clause 5.5(a)(ii) to increase the maximum floor area of a secondary dwelling on land in a rural zone from 33% of the floor area of the principal dwelling to 65% of the floor area of the principal dwelling.

The planning proposal seeks to expand the options currently available to landowners in permissible zones for the development of secondary dwellings which may stimulate the supply of affordable and diversified housing, whilst encouraging efficient growth patterns through infill development where the majority of infrastructure services exist.

Gateway Determination

The Gateway Determination (Attachment 2) sets out the following conditions to be undertaken as part of the amendment process.

Condition	Response and Outcome
Condition 1 Public exhibition is required under section 3.34(2)(c) and clause 4 of Schedule 1 to the Act as follows: (a) the planning proposal is categorised as standard as described in the Local Environmental Plan Making Guideline (Department of Planning and Environment, August 2023) and must be made publicly available for a minimum of 20 working days; and (b) the planning proposal authority must comply with the notice requirements for public exhibition of planning proposals and the specifications for material that must be made publicly available along with planning proposals as identified in Local Environmental Plan Making Guideline (Department of Planning and Environment, August 2023). No consultation is required with public authorities or government agencies under section 3.34(2)(d) of the Act.	Council placed the planning proposal on exhibition from Monday 30 March 2026 to Friday 1 May 2026. Three (3) submissions were received in response (Attachment 3). A response to submissions has been provided below.
Condition 2 A public hearing is not required to be held into the matter by any person or body under section 3.34(2)(e) of the Act. This does not discharge Council from any obligation it may otherwise have to conduct a public hearing (for example, in response to a submission or if reclassifying land).	A public hearing was not required.

Condition

Response and Outcome

Condition 1

Public exhibition is required under section 3.34(2)(c) and clause 4 of Schedule 1 to the Act as follows:

(a) the planning proposal is categorised as standard as described in the Local Environmental Plan Making Guideline (Department of Planning and Environment, August 2023) and must be made publicly available for a minimum of 20 working days; and

(b) the planning proposal authority must comply with the notice requirements for public exhibition of planning proposals and the specifications for material that must be made publicly available along with planning proposals as identified in Local Environmental Plan Making Guideline (Department of Planning and Environment, August 2023).

No consultation is required with public authorities or government agencies under section 3.34(2)(d) of the Act.

Council placed the planning proposal on exhibition from Monday 30 March 2026 to Friday 1 May 2026.

Three (3) submissions were received in response (Attachment 3). A response to submissions has been provided below.

Condition 2

A public hearing is not required to be held into the matter by any person or body under section 3.34(2)(e) of the Act. This does not discharge Council from any obligation it may otherwise have to conduct a public hearing (for example, in response to a submission or if reclassifying land).

A public hearing was not required.

Summary of Submissions

During the public exhibition period three (3) submissions were received. The submissions have been summarised and responded to in Attachment 4.

It is noted that future secondary dwelling assessment is subject to a development application or complying development pathway (CDC) and, despite the additional allowable size, are still required to address and satisfy all other planning considerations.

Based on the assessment of the submissions received this report recommends endorsement of the Planning Proposal as exhibited.

Financial Implications

N/A

Policy and Legislation

Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979

Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010

Link to Strategic Plan

Growing

Increase housing supply and diversity

Implement initiatives to deliver an increase in housing supply and diversity of housing options to meet the needs of our community.

Risk Management Issues for Council

If the proposed amendment was not finalised, the LEP would retain the existing controls of 60m² or 33% of the total floor area of the principal dwelling. This may impact additional housing supply in Wagga Wagga.

Internal / External Consultation

The planning proposal was placed on exhibition between Monday 30 March 2026 to Friday 1 May 2026 (inclusive) with engagement undertaken as per the table below.

Mail

Traditional Media

Community Engagement

Digital

Rates notices insert

Direct mail

Letterbox drop

Council news

Media release

Media opportunity

TV/radio advertising

One-on-one meeting(s)

Community meeting(s)

Stakeholder workshop(s)

Drop-in session(s)

Survey/feedback form(s)

Have your Say

Email newsletter

Social media

Website

Inform

Consult

Involve

Collaborate

Other methods (please list specific details below)

The planning proposal and accompanying exhibition material were made available for viewing by the public on Council’s Have Your Say page and at Council’s Customer Service Counter in the Civic Centre during the public exhibition period. Public notices were placed in ‘Council News’ and Council’s website.

Attachments

1 ⇩.	LEP25/0001 - Draft Planning Proposal
2 ⇩.	LEP25/0001 - Gateway Determination
3 ⇩.	LEP25/0001 - Redacted Submissions
4 ⇩.	LEP25/0001 - Response to Submissions

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Tuesday 9 June 2026

RP-3

RP-3 Section 3.22 Expedited Amendment - Essential Services Clause

Author: Matthew Yeomans

Executive: Fiona Hamilton

Summary:

This report seeks Council endorsement to prepare and submit a Section 3.22 expedited amendment to the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010 to introduce an ‘essential services’ clause that would apply to all development except those where Part 6 Urban Release Areas (of the LEP) applies.

The amendment will align the LEP with standard NSW planning practice, strengthening statutory controls by ensuring essential infrastructure is available to support development, and reducing reliance on the Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan 2010, where the control is currently contained.

The amendment will support orderly and sustainable development and provide a stronger framework for managing infrastructure capacity constraints across the Local Government Area.

Recommendation

That Council delegate authority to the General Manager or their delegate to prepare and lodge a section 3.22 application to amend the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010 to introduce a new ‘essential services’ local clause under Section 3.22 and 3.36(2) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

Report

The purpose of this report is to seek Council’s endorsement to prepare and submit a section 3.22 expedited amendment to insert an ‘essential services’ clause into the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010 (LEP).

The amendment is prompted by ongoing investigations into sewer capacity to support the Southern Growth Area (SGA) Zone 1, which has identified capacity constraints at the Kooringal Sewer Treatment Plant (STP) to service development in this catchment area. While the Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan 2010 addresses essential services, introducing the clause into the LEP will provide a stronger statutory framework to manage key sewer constraints where additional development occurs outside SGA Zone 1 but within the STP catchment.

In the broader context of development within the Local Government Area (LGA), the insertion of this clause will give statutory protection to manage essential services outside of the urban release areas and ensure adequate infrastructure capacity is available. It should be noted that Part 6 Urban Release Areas of the LEP has a similar clause however it only applies to land within an urban release area.

The majority of LEP’s across the State have an ‘essential services’ clause that requires a consent authority to be satisfied that services that are essential for development (commonly the supply of water or electricity, disposal of sewage, etc.) are available or that adequate arrangements have been made to make the services available when required. This clause is typically considered a core safeguard in the NSW planning framework, ensuring orderly development and protecting unexpected impacts on infrastructure capacity.

Since its gazettal in 2010, the LEP has never included an essential services clause which is unusual when compared with the majority of LEPs across the State. Instead, there has been a reliance on the Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan (DCP) to address essential service requirements. However, a DCP cannot override or substitute for an LEP, and its provisions carry significantly less statutory weight. Given the significant growth occurring in Wagga Wagga, implementation of this clause to apply across the LGA (outside of urban release areas) will ensure that appropriate consideration of potential servicing capacity and availability is assessed as part of any development application.

Council staff have discussed with the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) on numerous occasions (including in meetings regarding SGA Zone 1) implementing this clause. DPHI have advised that the proposed amendment pathway is appropriate for this matter.

Operation of the clause

The clause will require the consent authority to consider whether essential services are:

· Available at the land, or

· Able to be made available when required through appropriate arrangements.

The clause is typically worded as outlined below.

Essential services

(1) This clause does not apply to land in an urban release area.

(2) Development consent must not be granted to development unless the consent authority is satisfied that any of the following services that are essential for the proposed development are available or that adequate arrangements have been made to make them available when required—

(a) the supply of water,

(b) the supply of electricity,

(c) the disposal and management of sewage,

(d) stormwater drainage or on-site conservation,

(e) suitable road access.

The Parliamentary Counsel Office will ultimately determine the drafting of the instrument wording in accordance with the instructions provided.

What is a section 3.22 expedited amendment?

A Section 3.22 amendment is an expedited amendment under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (the Act). Section 3.22(1)(b) provides for an expedited amendment to ‘address matters in an LEP that are of a consequential, transitional, machinery or other minor nature’. Given that this matter is currently addressed via the DCP, will align the LEP with statewide practice, strengthen statutory controls, and reduce Council’s exposure to legal and infrastructure risks, it is considered appropriate to rely of section 3.22(1)(b) of the Act to progress this amendment.

Financial Implications

N/A

Policy and Legislation

Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979

Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010

Link to Strategic Plan

Sustainable

Sustainable built environment

Balance the built and natural environment in planning decisions.

Risk Management Issues for Council

Insertion of this clause into the LEP will give statutory protection to manage essential services outside of the urban release areas and ensure adequate infrastructure capacity is available. Whilst the provision exists within the DCP, a DCP cannot override or substitute for an LEP, and its provisions carry significantly less statutory weight. This clause also supports Council’s ability to ensure orderly and sustainable development, coordinate infrastructure delivery and growth and implement long term strategic planning objectives.

Internal / External Consultation

The Strategic Planning team have consulted with internal Council departments and DPHI regarding the proposed changes.

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Tuesday 9 June 2026

RP-4

RP-4 LAKE ALBERT ALGAE MANAGEMENT TRIAL OUTCOMES

Author: Ben Creighton

Executive: Fiona Piltz

Summary:

This paper outlines the background of the Hydro2050 trial, and the results achieved to date in managing Blue Green Algae within Lake Albert.

Recommendation

That Council receive and note the report

Report

Council has considered many reports in recent years with the view to identifying options for a possible algae treatment to either prevent or address algal blooms within Lake Albert and allow the lake to remain at the green alert level or better. At the Ordinary Meeting of Council held 25 August 2025 it was resolved:

25/277 RESOLVED:

On the Motion of Councillors L Tanner and R Foley

That Council:

a note the outcomes achieved to date of the Hydro2050 trial

b endorse proceeding with the trial for another six (6) months to gain additional data on the effectiveness of the units to manage Blue Green Algae within Lake Albert

c received a further report following the additional six-month trial period

d approve the budget variation as detailed in the Financial Implications section of the report

CARRIED

To achieve the green alert level for Blue-Green Algae (BGA), counts must be <5000 cells/ml in water testing results. When achieved this means that there are no restrictions on the use of the lake for recreational purposes. Health guidelines also require that there are no visible algal blooms present in a water body if it is being used for recreational purposes.

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Hydro2050 Background

In mid-2024, lake users had a discussion with a company regarding a possible oxygen/ozone treatment. Hydro2050 provided staff with a proposal for a trial on the remaining algae within the lake at the time. This offer proposed a 14-day trial. The proposal provided details on how the product works. It stated that:

· Oxygen is generated from the air with an oxygen generator. Oxygen is then pumped into the ozone generator to produce ozone. The Hydro2050 system generates oxygen/ozone from the atmosphere, so is fully self-contained without need of chemical/gas handling and storage. When ultrafine bubbles of ozone collapse in water, they create hydroxyl radicals which are the most effective and safe oxidising agent to destroy organic and oxidisable non-organic pollutants in water.

· The Hydro ultrafine bubble generator sits in the water body being treated and is connected to the oxygen and ozone generators that feed in the gas which are infused into the ultrafine bubbles.

o The ultrafine bubbles are created by a patented shear process without moving parts.

o The ultrafine bubble generator produces trillions of <1-micron bubbles, at a water volume throughput of 18,000L/hr.

· Hydro ultra-fine bubbles have unique properties.

o They are so small they don't float and burst at the surface to provide maximum efficacy of disinfection and oxygenation.

o They are negatively charged and disperse through the entire water column to disinfect and oxygenate all the water (not just the surface).

o Hydro ultra-fine bubbles remain suspended in the water, providing a highly effective method for maintaining dissolved oxygen in the water longer than conventional bubbles.

o Hydro ultra-fine bubbles have a very high surface area compared to normal bubbles to provide maximum contact of ozone and oxygen to disinfect and oxygenate the water.

Ultimately, staff recommended not proceeding with the 14-day trial as the environmental conditions at the time had resulted in a significant drop in the BGA count.

Hydro2050 then provided Council with a revised proposal for the summer months. Under this proposal Council was responsible for the water quality testing, power supply to the three units, warning signage, and the travel and accommodation costs during the set up and pull down of the equipment.

Following receipt of the proposal and a Councillor Workshop, Staff had several discussions with Hydro2050 representatives to clarify a number of points. Hydro2050 staff provided the following offer:

· 5 units, (covering the 3 points of Lake Albert and 2 units covering the central area of the lake) to provide better coverage of the lake for the nano-bubble/oxygen/ozone treatment with a 6-month trial with the option to either purchase or lease the units following the trial.

2024/25 Trial Outcomes

The installation of the Hydro2050 units commenced installation during January 2025. In May 2025 Hydro2050 provided an interim report on the outcomes of the trial.

Within this report it states:

· The Hydro technology had demonstrated its ability to remediate Cyanobacteria at Lake Albert, even when it is present at heavy levels at the peak of hot summer which is conducive to Cyanobacteria blooms.

· Lake Albert has been able to remain open for recreational use over the key summer period and independent laboratory test confirm reduction in Cyanobacteria during the peak summer period.

· Lake Albert moved consistently into the green zone as Cyanobacteria levels reduced – not red zones as occurred in the 2023 and 20234 summers which forced the lake to be closed. The lake has visually improved and comments from many locals interested in the health of the lake when we have been onsite, have been positive.

· The initial Hydro Lake Albert Trial will conclude at the end of August 2025. We recommend that the hydro trial continue for another 6 months to have a full year in operation at the Lake and prepare for summer 2026.

2024/25 Staff Summary

The fact that the lake during that season did not receive a Red Alert level count of BGA, despite some extremely hot prolonged conditions was a positive indication that the Hydro2050 solution does have some impact on the BGA levels. However, given a number of variable factors, including rainfall, the use of ultrasonic buoys and residual waterzyme treatment meant that it was not possible to definitively say that the primary reason for this was the nanobubble technology. To determine if this is the case the trial needed to continue to allow for additional evidence to be collected. Hydro 2050 offered 2 options on continuing the use of the Hydro2050 units. Ultimately Council resolved to continue the lease for the 25/26 summer season.

2025/26 Trial Outcomes

The BGA levels identified within the lake during the 2025/26 season are outlined below.

Following completion of the trial in February 2026 Hydro2050 made the following observations:

· There was a sustained reduction of BGA during peak summer conditions with predominate Green Status during both the previous 24/25 and 25/26 summers.

· There was a clear improvement relative to the previous 22-24 Red Alert Conditions

· There was visibly improved water quality

· There was healthier aquatic conditions supported by increased oxygen. Several Fishers reported best fishing near the hydro devices (which would be as a result of higher oxygen levels.

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· Persistent algae bloom issues can be controlled

· Water bodies can be kept open and safe year-round

· A proactive model delivers better environmental, social, and economic outcomes

Hydro2050 Recommendations:

· Continue Hydro2050 under a full-service operational model

· Maintain 5 Unit configurations

· Condtinue independent monitoring

· Intergrate Hydro2050 as a core component of Council’s long term lake management strategy

· Use Lake Albert as a case study for regional leadership:

o A proven model for non-chemical lake rehabilitation

o A reference site for other council and agencies

o An opportunity for Wagga Wagga to position itself as a leader in Water innovation

Community Stakeholder Views

During recent discussions with lake stakeholders, there was a general consensus that the Hydro2050 does have positive benefits in improving water quality, reducing the number of algal blooms and there duration when they occur.

Staff Comments

Lake Albert during the second season of the trial predominately experienced green alert conditions. Combined with the previous season where similar results were achieved, it appears that the Hydro2050 technology does have a positive impact on controlling BGA within Lake Albert although it should be noted the two-year sample is still a relatively short period and does not account for all variables. The 25/26 summer season was a particular testing summer with extremely hot weather conditions combined with low water levels within the Lake.

During the past two seasons there has only been one red alert level issued (January 26) with extremely high algae counts recorded. However, it was noteworthy that this bloom was significantly reduced within a week of first being recorded. This was significant because historically blooms of this scale and level would generally last several months and staff had never observed such a quick recovery. Also of note was that this bloom appeared following the occurrence of two events. The first being that the lake levels dropped where the operation of the units was limited and the second being that vandalism also rendered a unit inoperable. These issues were addressed concurrently with the identification of the bloom. The units were extended further into the water and repairs made to address the vandalism. The following week the algal count had reduced to an amber alert and the week after that had reduced to a green alert level.

For a comparison Staff monitored other water bodies within the region for BGA Alerts. During the high-risk summer period Lake Albert for much of the time was operating at a lower alert level than these other water bodies with many much larger bodies of water suffering much larger and longer algal blooms.

Previous discussions staff have had with expert organisations have highlighted that there are no “silver bullets” when looking at the prevention and treatment of BGA and that although these type of products may assist to reduce and manage blooms, there will always be a risk of a bloom occurring until nutrient levels can be addressed.

Financial Implications

Hydro2050 have offered Council options to continue the use of the technology. Given these are commercial in confidence they are considered in a confidential report at this Council meeting.

Policy and Legislation

Lake Albert Plan of Management

Recreation Open Space and Community Strategy

Link to Strategic Plan

Regional Leadership

Ethical Leadership

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

Risk Management Issues for Council

The risks associated with implementing the Lake Albert algae management trial relate to process, cost, environmental, WH&S and contractor performance. These risks will be mitigated as part of Council’s project management and contractor performance management systems.

Environmental risks will continue to be assessed and managed using the product specific Review of Environmental Factors.

The risk of not continuing the trial is that Lake Albert will have a prolonged algae outbreak and Council may suffer reputational damage due to the community perception of inadequate attempts to address the problem.

Internal / External Consultation

Internal Consultation has been held with the City Growth, Environment and Finance divisions of Council.

Previous Councillor workshops and reports on possible treatments and the algae treatment outcomes.

Updates on the trial have been provided to lake users as part of broader consultation and updates on the Lake Albert Water Sport and Event Precinct project. Feedback on the units has been positive in that there is a belief that the units are having a positive impact.

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Tuesday 9 June 2026

RP-5

RP-5 INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN 2026-2028

Author: Alexandra Osgood

Executive: Christine Priest

Summary:

This report advises Council on the outcome of the public exhibition process for the draft Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2026 - 2028. The Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2026 - 2028 is presented to Council for endorsement, following public exhibition.

Recommendation

That Council:

a note that there were twelve (12) public submissions received during the exhibition period for the draft Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2026 - 2028

b adopt the Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2026 - 2028

Report

At the 23 March 2026 Ordinary Council meeting it was resolved to place the draft Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2026-2028 on public exhibition. During the public exhibition period from Wednesday 25 March to Monday 27 April 2026, 12 public submissions were received and are attached under separate cover for Councillors’ reference.

1	Submission from Resident
	Supports the RAP initiatives and agrees with the intent. Advised that the use of two spellings of Wiradjuri/Wiradyuri are confusing at times.
	Recommended changes to Plan in response
	This comment is noted. No amendments have been made to the draft RAP document as the two spellings of Wiradjuri/Wiradyuri are clearly outlined on page 10 of the plan to explain that as a traditionally oral language, Uncle Stan Grant Senior has advised Council that the sound of the letter ‘J’ does not exist in the Wiradjuri/Wiradyuri language, instead the sound of the letter ‘Y’ is phonetically more accurate. Upon this advice and due to our commitment to protecting important language such as this and in the spirit of inclusion, Council will continue to include both spellings of Wiradjuri/Wiradyuri.
2	Submission from Resident
	Submission containing racist and discriminatory comments.
	Recommended changes to Plan in response
	No amendments made to the draft RAP document.

3	Submission from Resident
	Concerns raised in regard to the inclusion of artwork from non-Wagga based Wiradjuri artist and the hero artwork EOI process in general. Recommendations included prioritising local Aboriginal artists and businesses, measurable targets for employment and procurement, ensure transparent, culturally appropriate consultation processes that encompass various community groups to ensure non biased opinions and views.
	Recommended changes to Plan in response
	The Wagga Wagga-based Wiradjuri/Wiradyuri artist who designed the hero RAP artwork was selected through an open Expressions of Interest process with the artist selected by eight (8) Wiradjuri/Wiradjuri and First Nations Elders during an Elders and Executive meeting in 2024. The graphic design of the document was selected via a Request for Quote process for a First Nations Design business to undertake this work. The illustrations were not commissioned as part of the RAP project, as they were already licensed to WWCC through another project which was Council’s First Nations People Employment & Retention Strategy 2024 – 2027. This Innovate RAP includes a new action around developing a provision for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander procurement in the Wagga Wagga City Council Procurement Manual. No amendments have been made to the draft RAP document, however the process and inclusion of artwork will be reviewed and strengthened for future activities.
4	Submission from Resident
	Feedback on skate competitions and parks.
	Recommended changes to Plan in response
	This information was noted. No amendments made to the draft RAP document.
5	Submission from Resident
	Feedback on skate competitions and parks.
	Recommended changes to Plan in response
	This information was noted. No amendments made to the draft RAP document.
6	Submission from Resident
	“It’s great.”
	Recommended changes to Plan in response
	This feedback is noted. No amendments made to the draft RAP document.

7	Submission from Resident
	Racist submission.
	Recommended changes to Plan in response
	No amendments made to the draft RAP document.
8	Submission from Resident
	Positive feedback on the draft RAP document congratulating WWCC on leading meaningful reconciliation and recognition of Wiradjuri Country and People in the community. Advised no request for changes.
	Recommended changes to Plan in response
	This feedback is noted. No amendments made to the draft RAP document.
9	Submission from Resident
	Positive feedback provided by a senior Wiradjuri Elder with no changes requested.
	Recommended changes to Plan in response
	This feedback is noted. No amendments made to the draft RAP document.
10	Submission from Resident
	Clarification required about Wiradjuri language in regard to the use of the ‘y’ and ‘Wagadyi Wagadyi’ and stated “Artwork not local artist”. Participant also provided advice on statistics to be updated and how to obtain that information.
	Recommended changes to Plan in response
	Uncle Stan Grant Senior has provided Council advice in regard to the use of the ‘y’ which is outlined in the document on page 10. Council will continue to include both spellings of Wiradjuri/Wiradyuri. The hero artwork is by a Wagga Wagga-based Wiradyuri artist and animator selected through an open EOI process. The graphic design work is by NSW-based Wiradjuri owned and operated design firm with connections to Narrandera and Dubbo. The illustrations were not commissioned as part of this graphic design request, as they were already licensed to WWCC through another project which was Council’s First Nations People Employment & Retention Strategy 2024 – 2027. Council staff reached out to recommended Cultural Knowledge Holders as recommended during the public exhibition period to seek feedback on the draft plan.

11	Submission from Resident
	Feedback requested that the artist is acknowledged on the front cover, along with recommendations throughout the document.
	Recommended changes to Plan in response
	The artist of the hero artwork is acknowledged, and the artwork description can be found on page 51 of the document. Photo acknowledgement was updated to include name of young person on page 4. Dancers’ acknowledgement was updated with expanded description on page 34 and 55.
12	Submission from Resident
	Request to deliver a young mothers cultural awareness program over 10 weeks run by the respondent and a local Elder.
	Recommended changes to Plan in response
	No amendments made to the draft RAP document. Community Development team will contact the respondent to advise of funding opportunities in the future to assist in developing this project idea.

The draft Innovate RAP commitments provides Council with a deeper understanding of its sphere of influence and establish the best approach to advance reconciliation as an organisation.

An Innovate RAP focuses on further developing and strengthening relationships with Wiradjuri/Wiradyuri and First Nations peoples, engaging staff, and stakeholders in reconciliation, and developing and piloting innovative strategies to empower Wiradjuri/Wiradyuri and First Nations peoples. There are four key areas for Council’s draft Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2026 – 2028 as follows:

1. Relationships

2. Respect

3. Opportunities

4. Governance

It is recommended that Council adopt the Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2026 -2028.

Financial Implications

The updated draft Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2026 – 2028 will inform the development of strategies and planning processes undertaken by Council moving forward.

All items contained in the draft Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2026 – 2028 are either included in existing operational budgets and/or considered as part the Long-Term Financial Plan. Any unfunded items listed will require external funding to support their implementation.

Policy and Legislation

Community Strategic Plan 2050

Link to Strategic Plan

Vibrant

First Nations culture

Support and acknowledge the importance of Wiradjuri and First Nations people, culture, and place in our community.

Risk Management Issues for Council

Risk management will be addressed as part of implementation of each action and managed by the respective nominated area of Council.

Internal / External Consultation

In the review and update of the draft Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2026-2028 internal consultation was undertaken with relevant departments across Council and with Council’s executive team.

External consultation was undertaken through an online survey form along with targeted face to face place-based consultation sessions with community members. Council hosted five (5) community BBQ & Yarn sessions at community hubs and a park in Tolland, Ashmont (2), Kooringal and Forest Hill connecting with approximately 100 community members including Elders and Cultural Knowledge Holders. In addition to this, the draft RAP document was presented at various Wiradjuri/Wiradyuri and First Nations community meetings including Mawang Gaway and the Wagga Aboriginal Interagency Network.

While on public exhibition, staff contacted community members, including Elders and other First Nations stakeholder groups and interagency networks to ensure awareness of the public exhibition period, encouraging any further feedback to be provided.

Mail

Traditional Media

Community Engagement

Digital

Rates notices insert

Direct mail

Letterbox drop

Council news

Media release

Media opportunity

TV/radio advertising

One-on-one meeting(s)

Community meeting(s)

Stakeholder workshop(s)

Drop-in session(s)

Survey/feedback form(s)

Have your Say

Email newsletter

Social media

Website

Inform

Consult

Involve

Collaborate

Other methods (please list specific details below)

Attachments

1 ⇩.

Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2026 - 2028

2 ⇩.

Public Exhbition Submission (Redacted)

3 .

Public Exhbition Submissions

This matter is considered to be confidential under Section 10A(2) of the Local Government Act 1993, as it deals with: personnel matters concerning particular individuals. - Provided under separate cover

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Tuesday 9 June 2026

RP-6

RP-6 APPLICATIONS FOR SUBSIDY FOR WASTE DISPOSAL FOR CHARITY ORGANISATIONS - 2026/27 FINANCIAL YEAR

Author: Gillian Goodwin

Executive: Fiona Piltz

Summary:

Applications have been submitted to Council by local charitable organisations, community groups and individuals seeking relief from fees for the disposal of waste at Council’s Gregadoo Waste Management Centre (GWMC) for the 2026/27 financial year, on the basis that they are providing a benefit to the community.

Recommendation

That Council endorse the annual 2026/27 Financial Assistance Subsidy for waste disposal subsidy for the total amount of $3,550 for the below listed charities.

Report

Council’s Financial Assistance Policy (POL 078) along with the Delivery Program and Operational Plan contain a deliverable which refers to the waiving of Gregadoo Waste Management Centre Fees and outlines a budget allocation of $10,300 for the 2026/27 financial year.

As part of this program, individuals, registered not-for-profit, non-government registered charities or community groups located in the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area are eligible to apply for a waiver or subsidised waste disposal fees.

There are two types of waivers or subsidised waste disposal fees that may be applied for:

1. An annual waiver or reduction to a maximum value of $1,000, or

2. A waiver or fee reduction for a single, specific project up to a maximum value of $250. This may be for advertised events such as Clean-Up Australia Day or the Adopt-A-Road Program.

The following table outlines the applicants who have applied for a waiver under the 2026/27 program, along with the proposed subsidy amounts for consideration:

No.	Name of Applicant	Subsidy amount proposed
1	Peter Dolden	$400
2	Erin Earth	$200
3	Men’s Shed Wagga Wagga	$1,000
4	Riding for the Disabled (NSW) Wagga Centre	$200
5	Classic & Historical Automobile Club of Australia - Wagga Wagga Region (CHACA)	$250
6	South Wagga Anglican Church	$200
7	The Salvation Army NSW	$700
8	Lilier Lodge	$200
9	Rotary Club of South Wagga Wagga Inc	$200
10	Anglican Parish of Wagga Wagga Anglican Opportunity Shop	$200
	Total	$3,550

The above listed organisations/individual are well known to Council for providing valuable charitable and social services that benefit the community of Wagga Wagga.

It is recommended to approve these applications and given that there are many more registered charities listed in the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area, it is proposed that the remaining budget amount of $6,750 be retained to fund any further applications for subsidised fees that may be received during the 2026/27 financial year.

Financial Implications

An allowance of $10,300 for subsidised waste disposal has been made in the Solid Waste budget for 2026/27, funded from the Solid Waste Reserve. The approval of this report will leave $6,750 for Council to consider any further applications received for the remainder of the 2026/27 financial year.

Job consolidation 70035 - Charity Subsidies for Waste Disposal

Policy and Legislation

Section 356 of the Local Government Act 1993

Financial Assistance Policy- POL 078.

Link to Strategic Plan

Regional Leadership

Engaged Community

Establish partnerships and relationships with community and foster opportunities for collaboration and action.

Risk Management Issues for Council

No risk management issues were identified in respect to the provision of subsidised waste disposal fees provided they are applied as per the Policy.

Internal / External Consultation

Internal consultation with the relevant sections within Council is undertaken to ensure the operators of the landfill and finance staff are advised of the subsidy to ensure it is applied correctly and monitored appropriately.

The applicants will be advised of the resolution of Council regarding their application for subsidised disposal fees, how the subsidy will be applied and the conditions of entry into the landfill.

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Tuesday 9 June 2026

RP-7

RP-7 ADDITIONAL FEES & CHARGES FOR 2026/27

Author: Rebecca Witenden

Executive: Carolyn Rodney

Summary:

This report proposes to add new fees for 2026/27 within the Gregadoo Waste Management centre, Hospitality and Partner Program categories.

Recommendation

That Council:

a place the following new fees on public exhibition for a period for 28 days from 10 June 2026 to 8 July 2026:

Item Number	Fee and Charge Description	Pricing Policy ID	2026/27 Fee (exclusive of GST)	GST	2026/27 Fee (inclusive of GST)	Basis
NEW	Gregadoo Waste Disposal – Mixed Waste per Tonne – Out of Region (50% excess charge on top of the base fee)	C	$259.09	$25.91	$285.00	Per Tonne
NEW	Council led Tourism Industry Development Programs	C	$0 - $3,500			Each
NEW	Tourism Partner Business	C	$0 - $3,500			Each
NEW	Regional Tourism Partner Council	C	$0 - $5,000			Each
NEW	Hospitality Catering	C	Market Value			Each
NEW	Hospitality Sales	C	Market Value			Each

b invite public submissions on the new fees until 8 July 2026

c receives a further report following the public exhibition period:

i addressing any submission made in respect of the proposed new fee

ii proposing adoption of the new fee unless there are any recommended amendments that will require a further public exhibition period

Report

Introduction of new fee at the Gregadoo Waste Management Centre – General Waste - Out of Region

This new fee will apply to any businesses or Council’s that operate external to the Wagga Wagga City Council Local Government Area, whom are seeking to dispose of general waste material to landfill.

Introduction of new fees within Council’s Visitor Economy Partner Program category

Council led Tourism Industry Development Programs - $0 - $3,500

This fee will fund the development and delivery of targeted sector training and capacity-building initiatives for the local tourism industry, including attendance at trade shows aligned with key themes identified in the Destination Management Plan.

Tourism Partner Business - $0 - $3,500

Regional Tourism Partner Council - $0 - $5,000

The above fees will fund campaign-specific tourism and event marketing buy-in opportunities for Tourism Partner members that align with the objectives of the Wagga Wagga Destination Management Plan. These opportunities may include additional social media/digital marketing, content creation such as photo and video packages, and partnering opportunities in major destination campaigns.

Formal adoption of fees in Council’s Hospitality section

Council’s Hospitality Section provide catering services for functions, meetings, workshops and other community events. The Hospitality Section also provides food and beverage services at the Airport Café, as well as through Council-operated food vans at the Livestock Marketing Centre and the Oasis Aquatic Centre.

Charges for these services are applied on a market value basis and are designed to recover the cost of food, beverages, staffing and other related expenses.

The inclusion of these fees in our formal Fees and Charges document is for administrative purposes and was always the intent of the introduction of Council’s Hospitality function which has previously been reported to Council.

Financial Implications

The introduction of new fees is intended to reflect the operational costs associated with providing these services.

Policy and Legislation

Local Government Act 1993

Chapter 15, Part 10, Division 1:

· Section 608 Council fees for services

Chapter 15, Part 10, Division 2:

· Section 610B Fees to be determined in accordance with pricing methodologies

Chapter 15, Part 10, Division 3:

· Section 610D How does a council determine the amount of a fee for service?

· Section 610F Public notice of fees

Link to Strategic Plan

Regional Leadership

Ethical Leadership

Deliver accountable and transparent leadership.

Risk Management Issues for Council

N/A

Internal / External Consultation

The proposed new fees will be publicly exhibited through Council News and on Councils website, seeking public submissions.

Mail

Traditional Media

Community Engagement

Digital

Rates notices insert

Direct mail

Letterbox drop

Council news

Media release

Media opportunity

TV/radio advertising

One-on-one meeting(s)

Community meeting(s)

Stakeholder workshop(s)

Drop-in session(s)

Survey/feedback form(s)

Have your Say

Email newsletter

Social media

Website

Inform

Consult

Involve

Collaborate

Other methods (please list specific details below)

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Tuesday 9 June 2026

RP-8

RP-8 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.

Report

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

At the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 25 May 2026, Council provided responses to twelve (12) Questions with Notice raised by Councillor R Foley regarding Homelessness Services and the Wagga Wagga Homeless Emergency Working Group. Provided below is a further update in relation to Question 8, for which additional information was being sought from Homes NSW.

Question 8 asked:

What is the current crisis accommodation bed capacity in Wagga Wagga, current demand, and the average wait time for placement?

The response provided at the 25 May 2026 Council Meeting was:

Council staff have forwarded this question to Homes NSW, the lead agency managing crisis accommodation in the city. When a response to this question has been received this information will be provided to Councillors for their awareness via Councillor SharePoint.

As above, at its meeting held on 25 May 2026, Council advised that this question had been referred to Homes NSW and that any response received would be provided to Councillors. The following response has now been received for Council's information. As further questions relating to homelessness services and the Wagga Wagga Homeless Emergency Working Group are also being considered within this report, it was considered appropriate to provide the Homes NSW response through the Council reporting process rather than via Councillor SharePoint. This approach ensures transparency and provides a formal record of the information received.

Attributable to a Homes NSW spokesperson:

It is noted that these crisis beds are consistently at or near full capacity. As a result, securing placements for new clients can be challenging due to the high level of demand. These beds are delivered by Specialist Homelessness Services and are funded through DCJ.

Location

Local Government Area (LGA)

Property Purpose (& Priority cohort)

Number of Bedrooms

SVDP – EMYS (Mission) Wagga Wagga

Crisis (SHS)

(Youth)

SVDP – SHE

Wagga Wagga

Crisis (SHS)

(Women’/Women and Children Experiencing DFV)

SVDP Edel Quinn

Wagga Wagga

Crisis (SHS)

(Single men and/or women over the age of 18 years)

WWLALC

Wagga Wagga

Crisis (Core and Cluster)

(Women/Women with Children Experiencing DFV)

(16 by 2027)

Councillor R Foley

Requested responses on the below twelve (12) questions regarding Wagga Wagga Homeless Emergency Working Group.

Governance & Decision-Making

Re: Working Group structure and Homes NSW authority

Q1. Who holds decision-making authority at Homes NSW within the Working Group, and what is the escalation pathway if meetings stall?

The Homelessness Encampments – Wagga Wagga Emergency Response Plan working group, is chaired by Homes NSW at the specific request of the Premier. The Minister for Housing and Homelessness has continuous oversight of this working group to ensure identified actions are progressed.

Q2. What formal mechanism ensures Council's perspective is represented at future weekly meetings given the Councillor's attendance was limited to today's ministerial visit?

The outcome of the emergency meeting convened between senior representatives of the New South Wales Government and Wagga Wagga City Council on 7 May 2026 was the establishment of a Homelessness Encampments – Wagga Wagga Emergency Response Plan. Council is a formal member of the working group tasked with developing and actioning this plan. Led by the GM, staff attend the weekly meetings of the working group to provide Council’s perspective and any issues arising are considered as part of the planning and deliberations of the working group membership.

Pathways & Timeline

Re: Minister Jackson's confirmation that pathways will be made available for all encampment residents

Q3. The Minister confirmed pathways for all encampment residents, what is the specific timeline, and does it cover people who return after any clearance?

Specific timelines for housing solutions for people living in the identified encampments are dependent on the needs of the individual and their decision to accept accommodation services and options offered by Homes NSW. As confirmed by the Minister as part of the recent visit to Wagga on Thursday 21 May, all residents of the encampments will be offered accommodation options.

Q4. What are the defined pathway options (crisis accommodation, social housing, health referrals etc.) and which agency owns each one?

The working group includes representatives from Homes NSW, Police, Council, St Vincent de Paul (Edel Quinn), Crown Land, Murrumbidgee Local Health District and Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network, First Nations, Mental Health Providers, working together to achieve the pathway options for the homelessness cohort currently residing in the identified locations.

Legal Framework

Re: confirmation that legal advice is being sought across multiple plan components

Q5. Which organisations are seeking legal advice, on what specific questions, and by what date must it be received before the plan proceeds?

All members of the working group are responsible for seeking and working within the parameters of various legal frameworks, dependent on their service provision to be undertaken as part of the Homelessness Encampments – Wagga Wagga Emergency Response Plan working group. Council has sought legal advice to ensure all legal obligations are undertaken with regard to our work as a member of the working group, specifically signage, compliance orders and regulatory services.

Communications

Re: Minister's commitment to an open public comms plan

Q6. Who authors, approves and distributes the public comms plan and how does it reach people who are currently unhoused?

Homes NSW is responsible for the development of the overarching communication plan, with individual agencies for example Council ensuring that people who are unhoused living in the identified encampment locations, receive clear updates and advice through written and verbal conversations as part of any site visits and compliance notifications.

Housing Supply

Re: NSW Government media release dated 21 May 2026, 12 MMC homes available from June

Q7. Of the 12 MMC homes available from June, how many are immediately accessible to encampment residents versus already allocated to the waitlist?

Attributable to a Homes NSW spokesperson:

All vacant Homes NSW properties, including the 12 MMC homes becoming available from June, are allocated through the standard social housing process and are accessible to all eligible applicants. This includes individuals currently residing in encampments who are seeking social housing assistance.

It is important to note that there is a single, consolidated housing waitlist, which incorporates applicants from a range of circumstances, including those experiencing homelessness or living in encampments. As such, the MMC homes are not pre-allocated to a specific cohort but are instead offered based on assessed need, eligibility, and priority within this unified system.

Homes NSW is actively working to identify and provide appropriate housing solutions for residents of encampments. This may include allocation to MMC homes where they are assessed as suitable.

Mandate & Urgency

Re: the tragic incident at the Wagga Wagga riverside encampment, May 2026

Q8. Has the Working Group formally recorded the riverside tragedy as the trigger for urgency in its terms or mandate?

Yes this tragic incident is formally recorded as the trigger for the development of the Homelessness Encampments – Wagga Wagga Emergency Response Plan and has been referenced in recent public commentary from the Premier and Minister for Housing and Homelessness.

Accountability & Milestones

Re: the Working Group's commitment to ongoing weekly meetings and a plan still being "fleshed out"

Q9. What are the measurable four-week milestones the Working Group is committing to so progress can be publicly reported?

Homes NSW is developing the overall communications plan that will provide information updates on the progress of the working group.

Q10. What is the drop-dead date for a written plan, and who is accountable if that deadline is missed?

The plan has been developed and is being executed by the working group. As previously advised the Minister for Housing and Homelessness has continuous oversight of this working group to ensure identified actions are progressed.

Coercion, Consent & Legal Authority

Re: Minister Jackson's public statements that residents refusing support "will go with police" and that some "may need to go to drug and alcohol rehabilitation"

Q11. What is the specific legal authority for police removal of residents who refuse support, and has that advice been documented before any enforcement action proceeds?

Council is currently finalising legal advice on its own legal authority to issue compliance orders working with Police and other agencies. This approach is being led with empathy providing support and accommodation options in the first instance. No enforcement actions will proceed without all legal aspects finalised and confirmed to progress.

Q12. What safeguards guarantee pathways remain genuinely voluntary and how will the process ensure no resident is coerced through implied threat of police action or probation breach?

Please refer to question 11 response above.

Councillor M Henderson

Is Edison Road a private or public Road? If it is a public road, why this is locked on weekends?

Edison Road is a public road. However, the new section referred to forms part of an unfinished development and has not yet been formally handed over to Council or opened to the public. Access restrictions remain in place until the development is completed and all requirements for road dedication have been satisfied.

Councillor J McKinnon

Noted that Tweed Shire Council has implemented a range of initiatives in response to homelessness issues within their community, including training for outdoor staff focused on engaging and communicating with people experiencing homelessness. Councillor McKinnon asked whether Council is aware of these initiatives and whether similar training may be considered appropriate for outdoor staff who may come into contact with people experiencing homelessness in Wagga Wagga.

Council are aware that a number of local government authorities are exploring different approaches to supporting staff who engage with members of the community experiencing homelessness or other complex personal circumstances.

Council made enquiries with Tweed Shire Council to better understand the specific initiatives referenced. While general information was available publicly, further discussions with their organisation did not identify a specific, centrally coordinated training program delivered through their Learning and Development function at this time.

Wagga Wagga City Council has recognised the increasing complexity of interactions experienced by frontline and outdoor staff, and since 2023 has proactively implemented a range of training programs to build staff capability, resilience and safety when working in challenging environments.

Programs delivered to date include:

Operational Readiness Program - Delivered: 2023, 2024 and 2025

This bespoke program focused on psychological resilience training for Council Rangers, Animal Shelter and Customer Service staff. It supports staff to enhance performance, communication and resilience under pressure when engaging with members of the public.

Situational Safety and Tactical Communications

Target Groups: Frontline Customer Service Staff, Regulatory and Compliance Staff, and Frontline Outdoor Operations Staff

Delivery: Commenced 2026, continuing into 2026/27

This training equips staff with practical skills to carry out their duties safely, effectively and professionally, including engaging with individuals who may be experiencing distress, vulnerability, or complex personal circumstances.

The program goes beyond traditional de-escalation techniques and focuses on proactive non-escalation strategies, including:

· Mindset and professional awareness

· Situational awareness, assessment and planning

· Tactical communication techniques

· Managing difficult interactions

· Appropriate physical response options where required

Initial delivery of this program has already received strong positive feedback from participating staff, including Regulatory, Environmental and Compliance teams. The program is being adapted to suit different service areas and will be progressively rolled out across the organisation, including to operational staff such as Parks and Civil teams, as well as other frontline services.

Importantly, while this training supports staff in interacting with people experiencing homelessness, it is not limited to this context. It is designed to prepare staff for a broad range of complex and high-pressure interactions they may encounter in the course of their duties.

Council remains committed to ensuring staff are well equipped, supported and safe, while also fostering respectful and constructive engagement with all members of the community.

Councillor A Parkins

Is there anything council can do to upgrade or clean up the top of Willians Hill because the lower part, including the gardens and museum is beautiful however above is a mess.

Council will inspect the areas of concern mentioned and determine what maintenance and improvement works may be undertaken over the winter months, it should be noted that Willans Hill Reserve is a natural corridor, which limits the extent of works that can be carried out.

Councillor A Parkins

The disabled toilet at the Riverside Precinct is padlocked, is there a reason why this is padlocked and where do disabled people go to the toilet when they visit that precinct.

Council’s Security contractor has guards manually unlocking and locking the public toilets at the Riverside Precinct on a daily schedule, the facilities are opened prior to 6am and secured after 9pm each day.

Recently, the disabled toilet door was vandalised as a result the facility was temporarily locked by Council whilst the door was repaired, repairs have now been completed and the toilet has returned to normal operation.

Further Council has obtained quotes to undertake a full security upgrade to this facility, including improved access control and the installation of security cameras, these works are currently scheduled for completion in the next financial year.

Councillor L Tanner

Can Council do what is necessary to refresh the Street furniture on Baylis Street as its looking particularly tired and gives a poor impression of our main street.

Council is currently exploring both internal and external options for refurbishing the benches, bins and bench and table combinations along Baylis Street and will commence in July 2026.

Financial Implications

N/A

Policy and Legislation

Code of Meeting Practice

Link to Strategic Plan

Regional Leadership

Good governance

Provide professional, innovative, accessible and efficient services.

Risk Management Issues for Council

N/A

Internal / External Consultation

N/A

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Tuesday 9 June 2026

M-1

Committee Minutes

M-1 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES - WAGGA WAGGA AIRPORT SPECIAL PURPOSE COMMITTEE - 20 MAY 2026

Author: Fiona Piltz

Summary:

This report presents the minutes of the Wagga Wagga Airport Special Purpose Committee meeting held on 20 May 2026 and recommends that Council extend the term of the Committee by a further six months, to 31 December 2026.

Recommendation

That Council:

a receive and note the minutes of the Wagga Wagga Airport Special Purpose Committee meeting held on 20 May 2026

b extend the term of the Wagga Wagga Airport Special Purpose Committee by a further six months to 31 December 2026

c adopt the revised Terms of Reference for the Wagga Wagga Airport Special Purpose Committee, noting the extension of the Committee’s term of office to 31 December 2026

Report

The Minutes of the Wagga Airport Special Purpose Committee meeting held on 20 May 2026 are presented to Council for consideration. A summary of the matters considered, and resolutions made is outlined below.

Lease Update

Lease negotiations progressed following a meeting on 22 April 2026 with Defence, with updated terms expected. Feedback on the draft lease was considered during discussions. With only six weeks remaining before the current extension expires, there is increasing urgency to finalise the lease.

Once a new lease is signed, over 30 sub-leases will need to be aligned and reviewed. Preparations are underway, including communication with existing sub-lease holders and due diligence planning. A further update will outline outstanding matters and next steps, noting that securing the lease is critical for future airport planning.

Airport Masterplan Engagement and Planning

A structured workshop is to be undertaken with Committee members to strengthen engagement and inform the scope and tender specifications for the Airport Masterplan. The session will focus on identifying long-term priorities, opportunities, risks, and success measures for the airport, defining the scope of work including required analysis and stakeholder engagement, and clarifying expected deliverables and outputs. The workshop will capture key insights to shape a practical and targeted Masterplan, with a final summary consolidating priorities, scope, and deliverables.

Extension of Term of Office

The Wagga Wagga Airport Special Purpose Committee was established by Council on 13 October 2025 to provide strategic advice and community input in relation to governance, lease negotiations, capital works planning and future strategic options for the Wagga Wagga Airport. The Committee operates in an advisory role only and does not have responsibility for operational matters relating to the Airport.

Under the current Terms of Office, the Committee will automatically dissolve on 1 July 2026 unless extended by resolution of Council. At its meeting held on 20 May 2026, the Committee discussed the conclusion of its current term and was advised that a report would be presented to Council seeking a further six-month extension of the Committee to enable it to continue in its advisory role.

Revised Terms of Reference reflecting the proposed extension of the Committee’s term of office to 31 December 2026 are attached for Council’s consideration and approval.

Financial Implications

N/A

Policy and Legislation

Wagga Wagga City Council Code of Meeting Practice

Link to Strategic Plan

Regional Leadership

Engaged Community

Establish partnerships and relationships with community and foster opportunities for collaboration and action.

Risk Management Issues for Council

No specific risks are identified in noting the minutes. Adoption of the updated Terms of Reference will strengthen governance clarity and reduce the risk of role ambiguity.

Internal / External Consultation

The Wagga Airport Special Purpose Committee comprises Councillors, independent members and senior Council staff. Relevant internal and external stakeholders will continue to be consulted as required in relation to airport operations, strategic planning and future development.

Attachments

1 ⇩.	Minutes - Wagga Wagga Airport Special Purpose Committee meeting - 20 May 2026
2 ⇩.	Draft Terms of Reference - Wagga Wagga Airport Special Purpose Committee