Agenda and
Business Paper

 

Ordinary Meeting of Council

 

 

 

To be held on
Monday 24 August 2026

at 5.30 PM

 

 

 

Civic Centre cnr Baylis and Morrow Streets,
Wagga Wagga NSW 2650 (PO Box 20)
P 1300 292 442
E 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.

 

 

 

 

Ordinary Meeting of Council AGENDA AND BUSINESS PAPER

Monday 24 August 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 - 10 AUGUST 2026                                                                      3

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST                                                                                       3

Reports from Staff

RP-1           LANDFILL CONTRACT - JUNEE SHIRE COUNCIL                      4

RP-2           BOOROOMA STREET UPGRADE - DRAFT ADDENDUMS TO WAGGA WAGGA LOCAL INFRASTRUCTURE CONTRIBUTIONS PLAN AND DEVELOPER SERVICING PLAN - STORMWATER    7

RP-3           FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE REPORT AS AT 31 JULY 2026    18

RP-4           RAILWAY STREET (LOT 1 DP 324533) - DEDICATION OF LAND AS PUBLIC ROAD                                                                    44

RP-5           EXPRESSION OF INTEREST - LEASE/LICENCE OF 54-58 JOHNSTON STREET, WAGGA WAGGA                                   57

RP-6           DRAFT COMMUNITY BENEFIT SHARING POLICY - POL 114   61

RP-7           QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE                                                     106

Committee Minutes

M-1             CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES - LOCAL TRANSPORT FORUM - 16 JULY 2026                                                                          110   

Confidential Reports

CONF-1       JUBILEE HOCKEY NOONAN TURF REPLACEMENT              122

CONF-2       RFT CT2026064 CONCRETE WORKS & KERB AND GUTTER PANEL CONTRACT                                                                123

CONF-3       RFT CT2026062 NORTH WAGGA LEVEE UPGRADE - ELECTRICAL CLEARANCE ASSESSMENT & RECTIFICATION WORKS                                                                                   124

CONF-4       CONSENT FOR THE REGISTRATION OF AN EASEMENT ACROSS COUNCIL LAND WITHIN THE LIVESTOCK MARKETING CENTRE                                                             125

CONF-5       PURCHASE OF AN ALL TERRAIN WATER CART FOR GREGADOO WASTE MANAGEMENT CENTRE                       126

 

 

 

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 - 10 AUGUST 2026       

Recommendation That the Minutes of the proceedings of the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 10 August 2026 be confirmed as a true and accurate record.

 

 

 

1⇩.

Ordinary Council Meeting - Minutes - 10 August 2026

127

 

 

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 24 August 2026

RP-1

 

Reports from Staff

RP-1            LANDFILL CONTRACT - JUNEE SHIRE COUNCIL

Author:        Andrea Baldwin 

Executive:   Fiona Piltz

         

 

Summary:

Establish a Waste Management Agreement between Wagga Wagga City Council and Junee Shire Council for the acceptance of municipal solid waste at Gregadoo Waste Management Centre.

 

 

That Council:

a      support a Waste Management Agreement between Wagga Wagga City Council and Junee Shire Council for the acceptance and disposal of municipal solid waste at the Gregadoo Waste Management Centre

b      authorise the General Manager or delegate to sign the agreement with Junee Shire Council

c      apply the adopted out of region waste disposal charge to waste received from Junee Shire Council from 1 July 2027

Junee Shire Council (JSC), through its waste contractor, has historically disposed of municipal solid waste, including kerbside collection and transfer station waste, at the Gregadoo Waste Management Centre (GWMC). This arrangement has operated without a formal agreement between the two councils.

This report seeks Council's endorsement to formalise the arrangement through a Waste Management Agreement that establishes the commercial, operational and governance framework for the continued acceptance of municipal solid waste from JSC at the GWMC.

Formalising this process will provide certainty for both councils, ensure appropriate cost recovery for the operation and future development of the landfill, and establish a consistent framework for any future agreements with neighbouring councils.

During 2025/26, JSC disposed of approximately 1,095 tonnes of municipal solid waste at the GWMC. Disposal volumes are expected to remain consistent in future years.

Based on the adopted 2026/27 Fees and Charges, this equates to approximately $312,000 (GST inclusive) in annual revenue.

At the 27 July 2026 Council meeting, Council adopted the introduction of an outside of region waste disposal charge whereby councils and projects located outside the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area are charged an additional 50% above the standard landfill disposal fee. This charge recognises the significant operational, environmental, and capital costs associated with operating the landfill and constructing future landfill cells. This new fee is applicable from 1 October 2026.

The proposed agreement will ensure external councils contribute appropriately towards these ongoing costs while providing a consistent contractual framework for future regional waste management arrangements.

The JSC General Manager provided feedback on the Draft Waste Management Agreement and have specifically requested Council consider the following:

·    JSC support signing the Waste Management Agreement with WWCC to start on 1 October 2026.

·    JSC are agreeable to paying the current gate fee of $190 per tonne for the current financial year 2026/27.

·    Have requested that the increased amount of the out of region fee is applicable from 1 July 2027 so that this can be appropriately budgeted for.

Council officers are supportive of this approach and will update the Agreement to reflect, should the recommendation be supported by Council.

The Resource Recovery and Waste sector is highly regulated. National, State legislation and regional guidance material provide the strategic direction for local government compliance.

 

Resource Recovery and Waste Management Strategy 2026 – 2028. This Strategy supports three key priorities, these being:

Priority 1 – avoiding waste and becoming circular; and

Priority 2 – recovering, regenerating and reusing resources

Priority 3 – best environmental management of residual waste

 

The proposed agreement supports the implementation of the Strategy by ensuring residual waste is managed in an environmentally responsible and financially sustainable manner.

 

Regional Leadership

Engaged Community

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

 

The proposed agreement will assist in managing the following risks:

·    Operational Risk – establishes clear responsibilities and acceptance conditions for waste received from Junee Shire Council.

·    Financial Risk – provides appropriate cost recovery for landfill operations and future capital works.

·    Corporate Risk – formalises an existing operational arrangement through appropriate governance and contractual controls.

·    Delivery Risk – supports long-term planning and management of landfill capacity.

 

A draft Waste Management Agreement has been provided to the General Manager of JSC for review. Feedback received has been incorporated where appropriate and both parties can progress towards execution of the agreement if supported.

 

During 2025/26, approximately 206,000 tonnes of material was received across the GWMC weighbridge, comprising:

·    approximately 42,000 tonnes of organic material processed by Carbon Mate;

·    approximately 89,000 tonnes of waste disposed of to landfill; and

·    approximately 53,000 tonnes of clean fill received from local and regional construction projects.

·    approximately 22,000 tonnes are resource recovered and is made up of things like, timber, steel and transfer station recovered items. 

 

JSC contributed approximately 1,095 tonnes of municipal solid waste during the year, representing less than one per cent of the total material received at the facility.

 

While these volumes are relatively minor, formalising the arrangement is considered appropriate to:

a)  ensure JSC contributes fairly towards the operational and capital costs associated with the GWMC;

b)  provide certainty regarding the types and quantities of waste accepted at the facility;

c)  establish a defined contract term with appropriate review and renewal provisions; and

d)  provide a standard agreement that can be utilised for future waste disposal arrangements with other regional councils.

 

Formalising the existing arrangement will strengthen governance, improve cost recovery and support the long-term financial sustainability of the GWMC while continuing to provide a regional waste disposal solution.

 

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 24 August 2026

RP-2

 

RP-2            BOOROOMA STREET UPGRADE - DRAFT ADDENDUMS TO WAGGA WAGGA LOCAL INFRASTRUCTURE CONTRIBUTIONS PLAN AND DEVELOPER SERVICING PLAN - STORMWATER

Author:        Geordi Paxton 

Executive:   Henry Pavitt

         

 

Summary:

The scope of works required on Boorooma Street has changed since the Wagga Wagga Local Infrastructure Contributions Plan 2019-2034 (LICP) was adopted in 2019. Changes are required to project TT28 Boorooma Street Upgrade in the LICP, including the addition of stormwater drainage works to the Developer Servicing Plan – Stormwater 2007 (DSP). This report recommends Council endorse the draft amendments to the LICP and DSP in relation to the Boorooma Street Upgrade for public exhibition and approve the proposed project funding and associated budget variation. Council has also secured $1,000,000 through the NSW Government Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure Faster Assessments and Incentive Program for the construction of a roundabout at the Estella Road and Boorooma Street intersection.

 

 

That Council:

a      endorse the draft amendments to TT28 Boorooma Street Upgrade in the 2019-2034 Wagga Wagga Local Infrastructure Contributions Plan as outlined in the body of this report and in the attached draft addendum being placed on public exhibition for a minimum 28 working days

b      endorse the draft amendments to the 2007 Wagga Wagga Developer Servicing Plan – Stormwater to include the Boorooma Street Drainage Project as outlined in the body of this report and in the attached draft addendum being placed on public exhibition for a minimum 30 working days

c      receive a further report following the public exhibition and submission period

i       addressing any submission made in respect of the proposed documents

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

d      accept the $1,000,000 in funding through the NSW Government’s Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure Faster Assessments and Incentive Program for the construction of a roundabout at the Estella Road and Boorooma Street intersection

i       authorise the General Manager or their delegate to negotiate and enter into a funding agreement with the NSW Government

ii       authorise the affixing of Council’s Common Seal to all relevant documents as required

e      approve the budget variation as detailed in the financial implications section of this report

The upgrade of Boorooma Street is included in the LICP (project TT28). The project is to widen the street and does not include any intersection upgrades.

 

Due to the recent construction of Estella Public School and anticipated increases in traffic demand due to surrounding subdivisional growth in Estella, Boorooma and Gobbagombalin, it has been identified that the intersection of Boorooma Street and Estella Road requires upgrade.  It is proposed to construct a two-lane roundabout at this intersection as shown on the attached plans.

 

At the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on Monday 3 April 2023, Council endorsed inclusion of the intersection works as part of the TT28 Boorooma Street Upgrade project and increased the budget by $1.6M in the Long Term Financial Plan (LTFP) to $4.4M to cover the cost of the roundabout.  This increase in the budget for the project was reflected in Council’s LTFP, without the LICP being amended at the time.

 

Council has recently completed the design of the Boorooma Street Upgrade including full duplication of Boorooma Street between Bradman Drive and Farrer Rd, a two lane roundabout at the Estella Road intersection, an intersection treatment into the future Bradman Drive connection point and stormwater upgrades including open channels and subsurface trunk drainage to mitigate flooding impacts within the subdivision growth area to the East of Boorooma Street and to the North within university land.

 

To reflect the revised project scope and funding arrangements, amendments are required to the LICP and DSP as follows:

 

·   amend the TT28 “Boorooma Street Upgrade” in the LICP (refer to the draft addendum attached and summary table below) to formalise the funding increase endorsed within the April 2023 Council report for the roundabout works and change the scope of the project.

 

TT28 Current LICP

TT28 Addendum to LICP

Widen Boorooma street to 4 lanes with a central median between the Avocet drive roundabout and the university entrance. This section of Boorooma street is on straight alignment with a moderate grade. There are a number of mature trees on the side of the road, which may be impacted. There are gas, Telstra, sewer and overhead power lines located in the road reserve, which are predicted to be unaffected from the road widening and therefore changes to these services are not included in the project scope.   Total - $2,616,000

·    620m of full four lane duplication along Boorooma Street with 3.5m wide travel lanes and 0.5m shoulders with kerb and gutter roadside drainage from Farrer Road intersection to Bradman Drive intersection. ·    Two-lane deep lift asphalt roundabout with a 10m central concrete annulus, a 10m wide circulating carriageway and a 2m wide trafficable concrete apron at Boorooma Street and Estella Road intersection. ·    190m of two-lane road upgrade along Estella Road with 3.5m wide travel lanes and 0.5m shoulders with kerb and gutter roadside drainage. ·    100m of four-lane road upgrade along Estella Road (approaches into roundabout) with 3.5m wide travel lanes and 0.5m shoulders with kerb and gutter roadside drainage. Total - $4,400,000

 

·   amend the DSP – Stormwater (refer draft addendum attached and summary table below) to allocate $750,000 funding to cover key trunk stormwater upgrades associated with the Boorooma Street Upgrade project.  It is noted that the nominated stormwater upgrades will provide tangible benefit to subdivisional growth both within the undeveloped land to the East of Boorooma Street and within the university land to the North.

 

Ref

Infrastructure Item

TT28

1.  500m of 1200 RCP trunk drainage from the CSU detention basin outlet to Council’s existing subsurface drainage network at Durack Cct. 2.  805m2 of concrete lined detention basin adjacent the roundabout to accommodate surcharge from the trunk drainage line and capture overland runoff from the road network exceeding the capacity of the roadside kerb and gutter drainage. 3.  350m of open channel drainage with intermittent check dams to accommodate major storm events and overflow from the detention basin.

 

Grant Funding

 

Council has been successful in securing $1,000,000 in funding through the NSW Government’s Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure Faster Assessments and Incentive Program for the construction of a roundabout at the Estella Road and Boorooma Street intersection. 

 

The Faster Assessments Incentive Program is an evidence-based, competitive grant program that rewards medium and high growth councils for reducing and maintaining low average development assessment timeframes.  Wagga Wagga City Council was selected in April 2026 to submit a project proposal with a maximum funding budget of $1,000,000 based on the efforts of Council’s planning team to improve performance and to meet the Ministerial Statement of Expectations on DA assessment times.

 

The grant funding will contribute towards delivery of the broader Boorooma Street Upgrade outlined above. The roundabout at the Estella Road and Boorooma Street intersection, together with the duplication of Boorooma Street between Charles Sturt University and Bradman Drive, will address increasing traffic demand and safety risks associated with rapid residential growth in the northern suburbs of Wagga Wagga.

 

The intersection and associated works provide key connections between residential neighbourhoods, Charles Sturt University and local schools. As development continues, traffic volumes along Boorooma Street and Estella Road are increasing, placing pressure on the existing T-intersection which was not designed to accommodate the future demand.  The existing intersection experiences delays for turning vehicles during peak periods and presents an increased risk of collisions as traffic volumes grow.

 

Pedestrian crossing opportunities are also limited. Splitter Islands of 2.5m width will also be installed to address pedestrian access issues. The dual lane roundabout will improve traffic flow, reduce vehicle speeds and enhance safety for all road users.

 

Works will include road widening, pavement upgrades, kerb and gutter, drainage, pedestrian refuge islands, line marking, signage, street lighting and landscaping.

Council will deliver this project over a 24-month period. 

 

Refer General Arrangement Plan and Stormwater Plans attached for context.

 

Item	Allowance
Construction	$6,126,928
Design	$61,269
Project Management & Supervision	$306,346
Survey	$30,635
Land Acquisition	$50,000
Service Relocation	$350,000
Contingency - 15%	$919,039
Total Cost:	$7,844,217

 

The proposed funding for the project is:

 

Source	Amount
LICP - Boorooma Street Duplication (Project TT28) – current budget	$2,800,000
LICP - Boorooma Street Slip Lane into Boorooma West - (2006-19 Plan) – current budget	$289,341
LICP - Boorooma St & Avocet Drive - Roundabout (Project TTR2)	$249,000
LICP - Boorooma St & Farrer Road - Roundabout (Project TTR3)	$131,000
Amendment to LICP (subject to public exhibition process)	$1,600,000
Section 64 Contribution (DSP) (subject to public exhibition process)	$750,000
Faster Incentive Grant	$1,000,000
Stormwater Levy Reserve	$500,000
Civil Infrastructure Reserve	$455,479
Department of Education contribution	$69,397
Total	$7,844,217

 

This project will be phased over 2026/27 and 2027/28.

Wagga Wagga Local Infrastructure Contributions Plan 2019-2034

Wagga Wagga Developer Servicing Plan – Stormwater 2007

Wagga Wagga Long Term Financial Plan 2026-2027

Growing

Enabling infrastructure

Provide essential infrastructure; including sewer, roads, key housing enabling infrastructure to support growth.

 

There may be some reputational risk to Council associated with changes to the LICP and DSP; however, it is anticipated that the proposed works will be largely supported by the community.

 

The associated project delivery risks relate to process, cost, environmental factors, workplace health and safety (WHS), and contractor performance. These risks are managed through Council’s established project management and contractor performance management systems.

Internal consultation has been undertaken with Council’s Infrastructure Services, Strategic Planning, City Growth, Finance and Property divisions regarding the proposed project, funding arrangements and amendments to the LICP and DSP.

 

The proposed amendments will be placed on public exhibition for a minimum of 28 working days and public submissions invited.

 

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⇩.	Addendum to LICP
2⇩.	Addendum to DSP
3⇩.	Boorooma x Estella Works - General Arrangement Plan
4⇩.	Boorooma x Estella Works - Stormwater Plan 01
5⇩.	Boorooma x Estella Works - Stormwater Plan 02

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 24 August 2026

RP-2

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 24 August 2026

RP-2

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 24 August 2026

RP-2

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 24 August 2026

RP-2

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 24 August 2026

RP-3

 

RP-3            FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE REPORT AS AT 31 JULY 2026

Author:        Carolyn Rodney 

         

 

Summary:

This report is for Council to consider information presented on the 2026/27 budget and Long Term Financial Plan, and details Council’s external investments and performance as at 31 July 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      note the Responsible Accounting Officer’s reports, in accordance with the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 (Part 9 Division 3: Clause 203) that the financial position of Council is satisfactory having regard to the original estimates of income and expenditure and the recommendations made above

d      note the details of the external investments as at 31 July 2026 in accordance with section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993

e      accept the grant funding offers as presented in this report

Wagga Wagga City Council (Council) forecasts a balanced budget position as of 31 July 2026.

 

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

 

Council has experienced a positive monthly investment performance for the month of July when compared to budget ($417,300 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 60% 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 8% which is on track when compared to budget.

 

OPERATING EXPENSES

Total operating expenditure is 16% 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 at the start of the year for the full 2026/27 financial year.

 

CAPITAL INCOME

Total capital income is 2% of approved budget. This figure is low due to the 2025/26 capital project grant income carryovers not being finalised, which will be reflected in the next report.

 

CAPITAL EXPENDITURE

Total capital expenditure including commitments is 40% of approved budget.

 

This relates to 2025/26 capital project carryover budgets not being finalised and reflected in the approved budget.

 

Significant commitments have also been raised for the Plumpton Road project for the full contracted amount, with the budgets for these projects phased over the next two financial years.

 

Excluding commitments, the total expenditure is 1% when compared to the approved budget.

 

 

 

 

2026/27 Revised Budget Result – (Surplus) / Deficit	$’000s
Original 2026/27 Budget Result as adopted by Council Total Budget Variations approved to date Budget Variations for July 2026	$0K $0K $0K
Proposed Revised Budget result for 31 July 2026 - (Surplus) / Deficit	$0K

 

 

The proposed Operating and Capital Budget Variations for 31 July 2026 which affect the current 2026/27 financial year are listed below.

 

 

2026/27 Capital Works Summary*

 

Capital Works	Approved Budget	Proposed Movement	Proposed Budget
One-off	$111,718,207	$601,455	$112,319,662
Recurrent	$29,737,183	$0	$29,737,183
Total Capital Works	$141,455,390	$601,455	$142,056,845

 

*Please note that the above table excludes the capital project budgets that are in the process of being carried over from 2025/26 to the 2026/27 financial year.  These will be finalised for the next monthly report, which will be presented to the 21 September 2026 Council meeting.

 

A review has been undertaken of the capital Plant Replacement & Renewal Schedule budgets for the term of the LTFP. It is proposed to adopt the revised Sales and Purchase budgets as per below.

 

 

Financial Year	Original Sales Budget	Revised Sales Budget	Original Purchases Budget	Revised Purchases Budget	Net Plant Reserve Adjustment
2027/28	(1,115,886)	(973,735)	5,960,000	9,633,500	3,815,651
2028/29	(1,136,054)	(527,742)	5,981,500	3,721,000	(1,652,188)
2029/30	(1,546,961)	(1,220,467)	7,692,000	6,881,000	(484,506)
2030/31	(1,346,644)	(845,331)	6,069,000	4,388,319	(1,179,368)
2031/32	(936,077)	(686,737)	4,130,500	3,637,500	(243,660)
2032/33	(1,349,712)	(1,077,188)	5,805,500	9,317,247	3,784,271
2033/34	(1,335,908)	(559,916)	5,989,500	4,299,520	(913,988)
2034/35	(2,167,119)	(1,061,502)	8,838,500	5,463,833	(2,269,050)
2035/36	(1,914,250)	(1,643,777)	7,657,000	10,562,012	3,175,485

 

 

Current Restrictions

 

Due to finalisation of the 2025/26 financial year figures, reserve balances have not been included in this report.
Investment Summary as at 31 July 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 30/06/2026 $	Closing Balance Invested 31/07/2026 $	July EOM Current Yield %	July EOM % of Portfolio	Investment Date	Maturity Date	Term (months)
At Call Accounts
CBA	AA-	22,348,311	16,583,393	4.35%	4.98%	N/A	N/A	N/A
CBA	AA-	44,890,582	45,025,802	4.40%	13.53%	N/A	N/A	N/A
Macquarie Bank	A+	10,503,228	10,540,606	4.15%	3.17%	N/A	N/A	N/A
CBA	AA-	49,011,845	49,187,201	4.35%	14.78%	N/A	N/A	N/A
Total At Call Accounts		126,753,966	121,337,002	4.35%	36.46%
Short Term Deposits
State Bank of India	BBB-	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.60%	0.60%	25/06/2026	25/06/2027	12
ICBC	A	1,000,000	0	0.00%	0.00%	10/07/2025	10/07/2026	12
Bank of Sydney	NR	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.17%	0.60%	18/08/2025	18/08/2026	12
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.50%	0.60%	28/11/2025	30/11/2026	12
Police Credit Union	NR	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.50%	0.30%	28/11/2025	30/11/2026	12
P&N Bank	BBB+	3,000,000	3,000,000	4.80%	0.90%	15/12/2025	15/12/2026	12
Bank of Sydney	NR	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.56%	0.30%	11/06/2026	11/06/2027	12
Bank of Sydney	NR	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.56%	0.60%	11/06/2026	11/06/2027	12
State Bank of India	BBB-	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.60%	0.60%	25/06/2026	25/06/2027	12
State Bank of India	BBB-	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.60%	0.60%	29/06/2026	29/06/2027	12
State Bank of India	BBB-	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.60%	0.60%	30/06/2026	30/06/2027	12
Total Short Term Deposits		20,000,000	19,000,000	5.14%	5.71%
Medium Term Deposits
ICBC	A	3,000,000	3,000,000	5.07%	0.90%	30/06/2022	30/06/2027	60
ICBC	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.32%	0.30%	25/08/2021	25/08/2026	60
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.06%	0.60%	2/09/2025	4/09/2028	36
P&N Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.85%	0.60%	16/12/2024	16/12/2026	24
Police Credit Union	NR	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.75%	0.60%	17/02/2025	17/02/2027	24
P&N Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.00%	0.60%	14/03/2023	15/03/2027	48
P&N Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.20%	0.60%	20/04/2023	20/04/2027	48
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.38%	0.60%	28/06/2024	28/06/2029	60
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.90%	0.30%	29/11/2024	29/11/2026	24
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.93%	0.60%	5/01/2026	5/01/2029	36
P&N Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.10%	0.60%	4/01/2024	4/01/2027	36
Bank Australia	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.25%	0.30%	9/03/2026	9/03/2028	24
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.10%	0.60%	23/04/2024	24/04/2028	48
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.12%	0.30%	24/05/2024	24/05/2027	36
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.26%	0.30%	31/05/2024	31/05/2028	48
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.24%	0.30%	3/06/2025	4/06/2029	48
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.26%	0.60%	6/06/2024	6/06/2028	48
BankVic	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.00%	0.60%	26/06/2025	26/06/2028	36
BankVic	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.65%	0.60%	27/08/2024	27/08/2026	24
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.63%	0.60%	30/08/2024	30/08/2026	24
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.51%	0.30%	16/09/2024	18/09/2028	48
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.45%	0.60%	27/09/2024	28/09/2026	24
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.79%	0.60%	17/10/2024	19/10/2026	24
Westpac	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.70%	0.30%	8/10/2024	8/10/2026	24
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.73%	0.60%	21/10/2024	21/10/2027	36
Hume Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.95%	0.60%	7/11/2024	7/11/2026	24
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.02%	0.60%	14/11/2024	16/11/2026	24
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.00%	0.30%	27/11/2024	27/11/2026	24
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.07%	0.60%	28/11/2024	28/11/2028	48
P&N Bank	BBB+	3,000,000	3,000,000	4.85%	0.90%	16/12/2024	16/12/2027	36
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.80%	0.60%	21/01/2025	21/01/2028	36
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.82%	0.30%	30/01/2025	29/01/2027	24
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.73%	0.60%	10/02/2025	10/02/2028	36
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.79%	0.30%	4/02/2025	4/02/2028	36
Regional Australia Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.71%	0.60%	12/02/2025	12/02/2027	24
Hume Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.75%	0.60%	12/02/2025	12/02/2029	48
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.70%	0.60%	12/02/2025	14/02/2028	36
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.77%	0.30%	26/02/2025	28/02/2028	36
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.62%	0.60%	3/03/2025	3/03/2028	36
State Bank of India	BBB-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.65%	0.60%	14/03/2025	15/03/2027	24
State Bank of India	BBB-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.65%	0.60%	31/03/2025	31/03/2027	24
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.81%	0.30%	1/04/2025	1/04/2030	60
State Bank of India	BBB-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.25%	0.60%	5/05/2025	5/05/2027	24
State Bank of India	BBB-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.25%	0.30%	29/05/2025	31/05/2027	24
State Bank of India	BBB-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.15%	0.60%	25/06/2025	25/06/2027	24
State Bank of India	BBB-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.15%	0.60%	2/07/2025	2/07/2027	24
State Bank of India	BBB-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.05%	0.30%	7/07/2025	7/07/2027	24
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.18%	0.60%	8/07/2025	9/07/2029	48
Regional Australia Bank	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.00%	0.30%	30/07/2025	30/07/2027	24
Westpac	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.00%	0.30%	12/08/2025	14/08/2028	36
Arab Bank Australia	NR	2,000,000	2,000,000	3.95%	0.60%	22/08/2025	24/08/2027	24
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.05%	0.60%	27/08/2025	27/08/2027	24
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	3,000,000	3,000,000	4.07%	0.90%	29/08/2025	29/08/2028	36
Police Credit Union	NR	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.06%	0.30%	8/09/2025	8/09/2027	24
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.08%	0.30%	9/09/2025	11/09/2028	36
BankVic	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.09%	0.60%	15/09/2025	15/09/2028	36
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.05%	0.60%	16/09/2025	16/09/2027	24
BankVic	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.15%	0.60%	21/10/2025	21/10/2027	24
Police Credit Union	NR	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.55%	0.30%	14/11/2025	15/11/2027	24
Police Credit Union	NR	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.56%	0.60%	17/11/2025	17/11/2028	36
Westpac	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.45%	0.30%	20/11/2025	20/11/2028	36
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.53%	0.60%	28/11/2025	28/11/2028	36
Westpac	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.66%	0.30%	4/12/2025	4/12/2028	36
Westpac	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.64%	0.30%	8/12/2025	8/12/2027	24
P&N Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.90%	0.60%	15/12/2025	15/12/2027	24
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.79%	0.60%	15/12/2025	15/12/2028	36
Police Credit Union	NR	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.76%	0.30%	8/01/2026	10/01/2028	24
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.82%	0.60%	29/01/2026	31/01/2028	24
BankVic	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.05%	0.60%	26/02/2026	26/02/2029	36
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.90%	0.60%	2/03/2026	2/03/2029	36
Westpac	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.18%	0.30%	9/03/2026	9/03/2028	24
NAB	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.15%	0.60%	10/03/2026	10/03/2028	24
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.22%	0.60%	11/03/2026	12/03/2029	36
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.35%	0.60%	17/03/2026	19/03/2029	36
BankVic	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.50%	0.60%	6/05/2026	8/05/2028	24
BankVic	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.40%	0.30%	25/05/2026	25/05/2028	24
Westpac	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.40%	0.30%	26/05/2026	28/05/2029	36
BankVic	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.40%	0.30%	2/06/2026	2/06/2028	24
BankVic	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.40%	0.60%	15/06/2026	15/06/2028	24
Bank of Us	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.35%	0.60%	19/06/2026	19/06/2028	24
Westpac	AA-	0	1,000,000	5.26%	0.30%	10/07/2026	10/07/2028	24
Total Medium Term Deposits		135,000,000	136,000,000	4.70%	40.87%
Floating Rate Notes
Newcastle Permanent	BBB+	1,009,499	1,013,381	BBSW + 100	0.30%	10/02/2022	10/02/2027	60
Suncorp	AA-	1,114,552	1,118,821	BBSW + 125	0.34%	14/12/2022	14/12/2027	60
Bank Australia	BBB+	1,921,831	1,929,504	BBSW + 155	0.58%	22/02/2023	22/02/2027	48
Bendigo-Adelaide Covered	AAA	1,015,075	1,019,971	BBSW + 115	0.31%	16/06/2023	16/06/2028	60
CBA	AA-	2,539,449	2,548,694	BBSW + 95	0.77%	17/08/2023	17/08/2028	60
ANZ	AA-	2,125,066	2,132,922	BBSW + 93	0.64%	11/09/2023	11/09/2028	60
Bank Australia	BBB+	1,670,480	1,652,858	BBSW + 150	0.50%	30/10/2023	30/10/2026	36
ANZ	AA-	2,546,825	2,556,086	BBSW + 96	0.77%	5/02/2024	5/02/2029	60
Suncorp	AA-	1,011,400	1,015,333	BBSW + 98	0.31%	19/03/2024	19/03/2029	60
ING Bank	A	502,424	504,325	BBSW + 95	0.15%	22/03/2024	22/03/2027	36
BoQ	A-	1,688,108	1,671,905	BBSW + 128	0.50%	30/04/2024	30/04/2029	60
Bendigo-Adelaide	A-	809,157	811,989	BBSW + 100	0.24%	14/05/2024	14/05/2027	36
ANZ	AA-	1,515,335	1,521,053	BBSW + 86	0.46%	18/06/2024	18/06/2029	60
Teachers Mutual	BBB+	906,114	909,801	BBSW + 130	0.27%	21/06/2024	21/06/2027	36
ING Bank	A	2,235,284	2,244,870	BBSW + 102	0.67%	20/08/2024	20/08/2029	60
CBA	AA-	1,521,846	1,527,536	BBSW + 87	0.46%	22/08/2024	22/08/2029	60
Suncorp	AA-	2,420,895	2,430,334	BBSW + 92	0.73%	27/09/2024	27/09/2029	60
Bendigo-Adelaide	A-	762,546	755,201	BBSW + 96	0.23%	24/10/2024	24/10/2028	48
ANZ	AA-	1,317,399	1,322,477	BBSW + 81	0.40%	18/02/2025	18/02/2030	60
Rabobank	A+	1,316,052	1,321,452	BBSW + 85	0.40%	20/02/2025	20/02/2030	60
The Bank of Nova Scotia	A+	2,023,177	2,034,326	BBSW + 140	0.61%	21/03/2025	21/03/2030	60
Suncorp	AA-	1,015,289	1,019,040	BBSW + 93	0.31%	21/05/2025	21/05/2030	60
Macquarie Bank	A+	1,420,763	1,408,613	BBSW + 82	0.42%	17/07/2025	17/07/2030	60
ANZ	AA-	3,786,386	3,803,475	BBSW + 71	1.14%	12/05/2026	12/05/2031	60
Total Floating Rate Notes		38,194,952	38,273,966		11.50%
Fixed Rate Bonds
ING Covered	AAA	749,279	752,193	1.10%	0.23%	19/08/2021	19/08/2026	60
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	3,000,000	3,000,000	1.50%	0.90%	24/08/2021	15/12/2026	64
BoQ	A-	1,889,525	1,897,099	2.10%	0.57%	27/10/2021	27/10/2026	60
BoQ	A-	2,024,241	2,025,224	5.30%	0.61%	30/04/2024	30/04/2029	60
ANZ	AA-	1,206,295	1,205,683	4.65%	0.36%	18/02/2025	18/02/2030	60
The Bank of Nova Scotia	A+	2,014,548	2,014,661	5.23%	0.61%	21/03/2025	21/03/2030	60
Macquarie Bank	A+	1,689,840	1,652,419	4.37%	0.50%	17/07/2025	17/07/2030	60
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.50%	0.60%	6/08/2021	15/12/2026	64
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.50%	0.30%	14/07/2021	15/12/2026	65
Total Fixed Rate Bonds		15,573,728	15,547,279	3.08%	4.67%
Managed Funds
NSW Tcorp	NR	2,602,524	2,596,042	-0.25%	0.78%	17/03/2014	N/A	N/A
Total Managed Funds		2,602,524	2,596,042	-0.25%	0.78%
TOTAL CASH ASSETS, CASH EQUIVALENTS & INVESTMENTS		338,125,169	332,754,289		100.00%

 

Council’s investment portfolio is dominated by Term Deposits, equating to approximately 47% of the portfolio across a broad range of counterparties. Cash equates to 36%, with Floating Rate Notes (FRNs) around 11%, fixed rate bonds around 5% 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 predominantly 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, from $338.13M down to $332.75M. This decreased portfolio balance is a result of a number of contract payments being due during July 2026.

 

 

 

Monthly Investment Movements

 

Redemptions/Sales – Council redeemed/sold the following investment security during July 2026:

 

 

New Investments – Council purchased the following investment security during July 2026:

 

 

Rollovers – Council did not roll over any investment securities during July 2026.

 

Monthly Investment Performance

 

Interest/growth/capital gains/(losses) for the month totalled $1,251,390, which compares favourably with the budget for the period of $834,090 - outperforming budget for the month by $417,300.

 

Council’s outperformance to budget for July 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 AIF funding in June 2024. For the 2026/27 financial year to date, Council has accrued $181,723 on this AIF funding received. As the project progresses and the funding is spent, the monthly interest will reduce.

 

Council experienced a slight negative return on its NSW T-Corp Managed Fund for the month of July, with the fund returning -0.25% (or -$6,483) as international shares (S&P 500 -0.13% and NASDAQ -3.20%) detracted from the fund’s performance over the month of July.

 

 

In comparison to the AusBond Bank Bill Index* of 4.51% (annualised), Council’s investment portfolio returned approximately 4.50% (annualised) for the month of July – performing in line with the benchmark for the month.

 

Over the past year, Council’s investment portfolio has returned 4.27%, outperforming the AusBond Bank Bill index by 0.34%. Council’s investment portfolio has continued to perform in line with the AusBond Bank Bill Index* over the longer-term time period, returning 4.15% per annum over the past 3 years – slightly underperforming the benchmark by -0.06% 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 2026/27 to 2035/36

  

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 24 August 2026

RP-3

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 24 August 2026

RP-4

 

RP-4            RAILWAY STREET (LOT 1 DP 324533) - DEDICATION OF LAND AS PUBLIC ROAD

Author:        Matthew Dombrovski 

Executive:   Fiona Piltz

         

 

Summary:

Lot 1 DP 324533 (known as part Railway St, Turvey Park) was transferred to Council in 1928 for road purposes; however, it was not formally dedicated as a public road. Council officers intend to lodge a gazettal notice to formally dedicate the land as a public road and complete the process.

 

 

That Council authorise the General Manager or their delegate to publish a gazettal notice in the NSW Government Gazette dedicating Lot 1 DP 324533 as public road in accordance with Section 10 of the Roads Act 1993.

Lot 1 DP 324533 (known as part Railway St, Turvey Park) was transferred from Felix Phillip Kirby to the Council of the Municipality of Wagga Wagga on 8 December 1928 to enable the continuation of Railway Street to Lake Albert Road. Council acquired the land for the purpose of establishing a road as part of a subdivision of Portion 72.

 

Since its transfer, Lot 1 DP 324533 has functioned as a public road and has been maintained accordingly. The road is identified in Council’s asset register as R4850-0-20 and R4850-20-475. Despite its long-standing use and maintenance as a public road, recent investigations have confirmed that the land was never formally dedicated for road purposes. Attached as Item 1 is a copy of the road status report prepared on Council’s behalf by Infotrack, and below is an aerial image of the portion of road in question.

 

 

As the land is currently being used by the public for road purposes, it is recommended that Council formally dedicate Lot 1 DP 324533 as a public road to ensure its ongoing management and administration as part of the road network.

 

In accordance with Section 10 of the Roads Act 1993, this process requires Council to publish a notice in the NSW Government Gazette formally dedicating the land as public road.

 

Council already maintains this section of road and has it identified within Council’s asset register. Given this, no additional budgetary impacts are anticipated.

Local Government Act 1993

Roads Act 1993

 

Growing

Enabling infrastructure

Provide essential infrastructure; including sewer, roads, key housing enabling infrastructure to support growth.

 

Where a road is accessible to and used by the public but is not classified as a public road, liability issues may be unclear and subject to dispute. In such circumstances, insurers may question or limit coverage due to uncertainty regarding the road's ownership and maintenance obligations.

 

The proposed recommendation will ensure that land being used by members of the public is dedicated for road purposes.

Internal consultation has been held within Council’s Chief Financial Office, Infrastructure Services and Economy, Business and Workforce directorates.

 

 

1⇩.

Road Status Report - InfoTrack - Lot 1 DP 324533 (Railway Street)

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 24 August 2026

RP-4

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 24 August 2026

RP-5

 

RP-5            EXPRESSION OF INTEREST - LEASE/LICENCE OF 54-58 JOHNSTON STREET, WAGGA WAGGA

Author:        Matthew Dombrovski 

Executive:   Fiona Piltz

        

 

Summary:

This report seeks endorsement of Council to conduct an Expression of Interest campaign for the premises at 54-58 Johnston Street, Wagga Wagga (otherwise known as the old Ambulance Station).

 

 

Recommendation That Council: a      authorise officers to conduct an Expression of Interest campaign for the lease or licence of property at 54-58 Johnston Street, Wagga Wagga, being Lot 2 in Section 38 in Deposited Plan 759031 (otherwise known as the old Ambulance Station) b      receive a further report on the outcome of the Expression of Interest campaign

 

The current licence agreement relating to the property at 54-58 Johnston Street, Wagga Wagga is due to expire on 2 April 2027.

 

On the basis that this property is currently generating a commercial rental return, and in accordance with Council’s POL 038 Acquisition, Disposal and Management of Land Policy, Council officers recommend taking the property out for an Expression of Interest (EOI) campaign to provide the wider community with the opportunity to lease or licence the property.

 

Noting that Council has made significant investment into improving the property since its acquisition in 2023, and that there remains a significant ongoing capital cost to maintaining a building of this age, Council recommends that any lease or licence arrangement continue to be based on market value terms. Reduction to the community licence fee, or a reduced, highly subsidised model, is not recommended.

 

Endorsement is sought from Council to commence an EOI campaign for the lease or licence of the property, with indicative provisions of the proposed Agreement being as follows:

 

Initial Term	Minimum five (5) years but open to negotiation, subject to statutory maximums contained in the Local Government Act 1993 (currently 21 years).
Permitted Use	Community purposes (see below)
Annual Lease/Licence Fee (excluding GST)	To be confirmed by submissions but should be based on market value. Payable in monthly instalments
Fee Reviews	Reviewed on an annual basis Greater of CPI or fixed 3% increases.
Outgoings	All costs associated with the operation of the premises including but not limited to electricity, gas, water, sewer, waste removal, telephone and Council land rates are payable by the successful applicant
Maintenance	The successful applicant is responsible for routine repairs and maintenance of all fixtures, fittings and improvements within the Premises. Council will be responsible for all structural repairs and maintenance (unless those structural repairs are required due to the successful applicant’s use of the premises)
Insurance	The successful applicant shall affect and maintain public liability insurance in the sum of $20 million. The applicant will be required to provide an updated certificate of currency every 12 months. Council is to be listed on the policy as an interested party. The successful applicant shall affect and maintain contents insurance for all contents belonging to the applicant.
Special Conditions	1.  The successful applicant shall have the right to sublet / sublicence part or all of the premises (subject to obtaining Council’s written approval, which can be withheld at Council’s discretion). Any sublease / sublicence is to be provided to Council for approval. 2.  The building is located within the Heritage Conservation Area and is an identified Local Heritage Item. No works (including structural works and painting) are to be undertaken without the written consent of Council. 3.  The deck on the first floor is not an identified event space and cannot be used for public events without a formal development application being submitted to change its use.

 

It is specifically noted that the property has a restriction on title preventing it from being used other than for ‘Community Purposes’. Community Purposes are defined in the restriction as ‘purposes which meet the current and future needs of the local community and of the wider public in relation to public recreation for the physical, cultural, social and intellectual welfare or development of individual members of the public. Ancillary uses are permissible where the use is subordinate or subservient, and not inconsistent, with the primary use of the land for Community Purposes.’

 

Any proposed uses of the property including any sub-agreement will need to be consistent with this restriction on title.

 

 

It is proposed that the following criteria will be used to assess submissions received.

 

Selection Criteria

1.  Presentation of a detailed business plan for proposed activities

2.  Demonstrable public benefit of the applicant’s occupation of the premises including but not limited to community and social benefits and educational, creative and entrepreneurial skills development

3.  Proposed agreement duration, including any options

4.  Proposed fee offered (excluding GST)

5.  Past financial performance of the applicant over at least two years, including the provision of financial statements

6.  A minimum of two (2) current business references.

 

There will be nominal costs incurred by Council in preparing the EOI campaign, anticipated at approximately $1,000. Full financial implications of any future lease / licence will be discussed in the outcome report.

Local Government Act 1993

Acquisition, Disposal & Management of Land Policy POL038

 

Growing Economy

Objective: Wagga Wagga is an attractive location for people to live, work and invest

Attract and support local businesses, industry, and employment opportunities

 

Council needs to responsibly manage assets including property. The proposal to proceed with the lease or licence by way of a public Expression of Interest campaign will support an open and transparent process. Further, proceeding with an Expression of Interest allows for a targeted assessment incorporating a weighting for wider community benefit.

The property has some limitations in its use due to the formal Restriction registered against the title, its identification as an item of local heritage, and its position within the heritage conservation area. Council will need to ensure that the successful applicant adequately manages any tenancies to ensure compliance with its obligations pursuant to those limitations.

 

Consultation has been undertaken internally with Council’s Business, Economy & Workforce, Community, Environment & Partnerships and Infrastructure Services Directorate.

 

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

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

Collaborate

Other methods (please list specific details below)

Internal Consultation Only

 

 

 

 

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 24 August 2026

RP-6

 

RP-6            DRAFT COMMUNITY BENEFIT SHARING POLICY - POL 114

Author:                    Fiona Hamilton 

General Manager:   Peter Thompson

         

 

Summary:

The Wagga Wagga Local Government Area is experiencing increasing interest from major energy, infrastructure and technology projects. These projects can deliver broader economic and strategic benefits, but they can also place cumulative pressure on local infrastructure, services, land use, communities and Council resources.   In this context, a clear local policy framework is required to guide Council’s engagement with proponents and ensure community benefit contributions are negotiated transparently, consistently and in the long-term interests of the Wagga Wagga community, rather than being considered without an adopted policy position.   In developing the draft Policy, consideration has been given to the NSW Benefit Sharing Guideline, advice shared through the Canberra Region Joint Organisation, and discussions with project proponents. The scope of the draft Policy has been broadened beyond renewable energy development to provide a local framework for major energy and technology projects that may impact on the Wagga Wagga LGA.   The draft Community Benefit Sharing Policy (POL 114) is now presented to Council for endorsement for public exhibition.

 

 

That Council:

a      endorse the draft Community Benefit Sharing Policy (POL 114) for the purpose of public exhibition

b      place the draft Community Benefit Sharing Policy (POL 114) on public exhibition for a period of 28 days from 29 August 2026 to 25 September 2026 and invite public submissions until 9 October 2026

c      receive a further report following the public exhibition period that:

i       summarises and responds to submissions received; and

ii       recommends whether the Policy should be adopted, amended, or re-exhibited if any proposed changes are considered substantial.

Background

 

At the Ordinary Meeting on 12 May 2025, Council considered a report in response to a Notice of Motion regarding the increasing number of renewable energy developments being proposed on high-quality agricultural land across the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area (LGA). Following consideration of the report, Council adopted Resolution 25/124, which acknowledged the concerns raised by the community and directed the General Manager to identify a pathway to better protect prime agricultural land through potential amendments to the Local Environmental Plan (LEP), Development Control Plan (DCP) and other mechanisms.

 

In response to Resolution 25/124 a report was presented to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on 21 July 2025 outlining a proposed pathway to strengthen protections for prime agricultural land. At that meeting, Council resolved through Resolution 25/199 to endorse the proposed planning pathway in principle, direct the General Manager to commence work on draft amendments to Council’s strategic and statutory planning documents and investigate options for a Community Benefit Policy for electricity generating and storage works.

 

Following the July 2025 resolution, Council staff engaged with relevant State agencies, including the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development and the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, to seek guidance and feedback on the proposed approach.

 

At the Ordinary Council Meeting on 27 October 2025, an update was presented to Council on the proposed planning amendments to protect prime agricultural land as well as the development of a community benefit policy for electricity generating and storage works Council resolved to receive and note the draft policy.

 

It is noted that the draft Policy represents one component of Council's broader response to Resolution 25/199. Further work will be progressed this financial year in relation to potential amendments to the Local Strategic Planning Statement, Local Environmental Plan and Development Control Plan to address land use planning issues associated with major energy and infrastructure projects. This work will be informed by the revised agricultural land mapping currently being prepared by the NSW Agricultural Commissioner and DPIRD and any associated State directions or guidelines.

 

Draft Policy Overview

 

The draft Policy has been designed to align with the NSW Benefit Sharing Guideline (the Guideline) while addressing local matters that are not fully covered by the Guideline, including cumulative project pressures, broader project types and Council’s governance arrangements for receiving, pooling and allocating contributions.

 

This is particularly important given Wagga Wagga’s position outside a designated Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) and the cumulative pressures foreseen with multiple major projects now emerging across the LGA.

 

The draft Policy is generally consistent with the NSW Benefit Sharing Guideline. It adopts the Guideline’s core principle that host communities should share in the benefits generated by major renewable energy investment, adopts the benchmark contribution rates where relevant and recognises the value of pooling contributions through a dedicated community benefit reserve to enable longer-term, strategic investment in community infrastructure and initiatives. It also supports the use of Voluntary Planning Agreements as the preferred mechanism for securing contributions.

 

The draft Policy also reinforces the importance of distinguishing community benefit-sharing from impact mitigation and provides a transparent local framework to guide negotiations with proponents.

 

The key differences between the NSW Guideline and Council’s draft Policy are:

·      The NSW Guideline is primarily directed at large-scale renewable energy State significant development projects. Council’s draft Policy applies to a broader range of major energy and technology projects, including transmission infrastructure, data centres and other large-scale developments where their scale, nature or impacts warrant a community benefit-sharing response.

 

·      The draft Policy establishes more detailed local governance arrangements, including a dedicated Community Benefit Reserve, Council-led project prioritisation criteria and alignment with Council’s strategic planning and budgeting processes.

 

·      The draft Policy proposes that Council negotiate a loading above the NSW Benefit Sharing Guideline benchmark rates to recognise the cumulative pressures placed on the Wagga Wagga LGA, particularly given the LGA is not located within a designated REZ and does not receive the associated strategic planning, coordination and investment benefits.

 

The Energy Legislation Amendment (Prioritising Renewable Energy) Bill 2026

 

The Energy Legislation Amendment (Prioritising Renewable Energy) Bill 2026 is currently before the NSW Parliament.

 

If passed, the Bill may increase State oversight of renewable energy planning agreements and influence how community benefit contributions are negotiated, calculated and secured.

 

In particular, the Bill may enable the Minister to determine the amount or method for determining contributions for energy projects under a voluntary planning agreement, including by setting a minimum or maximum contribution. This may reduce Council’s discretion to negotiate contributions above, or outside, the NSW Benefit Sharing Guideline for renewable energy projects, particularly where a project is declared a Priority Energy Project.

 

A link to the Bill is provided under the Policy and Legislation section of this report.

 

The Bill has now passed the Legislative Assembly and has been presented to the Legislative Council for concurrence. As the final statutory framework is not yet settled, Council’s draft Policy may require review and amendment following passage of the Bill and the release of any associated regulations, directions or updated State guidance.

 

Rationale for progressing the draft Policy prior to legislative changes

 

Deferring the progression of the draft Policy until the legislation is finalised would leave Council without an adopted local position during a period of continued project activity.

 

As the timing for passage of the Bill and any associated State guidance is not yet known, progressing the draft Policy to public exhibition allows Council to test the framework with the community and stakeholders while retaining flexibility to respond to the final legislative settings. If the timelines align, any relevant legislative changes can be considered before the Policy is reported back to Council for adoption. However, given the uncertainty surrounding the commencement of the legislation and any supporting guidance, there remains a risk that the Policy may need to be amended following adoption to ensure consistency with the final statutory framework.

 

Regardless of the outcome of the legislative change, Council’s draft Policy will remain necessary as the proposed legislative changes do not fully address Wagga Wagga’s local circumstances, the cumulative pressures associated with multiple major projects or Council’s preferred governance arrangements for receiving, pooling and allocating community benefit contributions.

 

The draft Policy also applies to a broader range of developments than the NSW Guideline and it provides a clear framework for engagement with proponents, supporting transparent decision-making and the strategic management and allocation of community benefit contributions across the Wagga Wagga LGA.

 

The community engagement activities will require internal staff resources and costs will be managed within existing strategic planning budgets.

 

If adopted, in its current form, the Policy will provide a framework for Council to negotiate and secure community benefit contributions from eligible major projects. These contributions would be managed through a dedicated Community Benefit Reserve and allocated in accordance with Council’s strategic planning, budgeting and reporting processes.

Local Government Act 1993 (NSW)

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

The Energy Legislation Amendment (Prioritising Renewable Energy) Bill 2026 (https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/parliamentary-business/bills/)

Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010

Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan 2010

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

Developer Infrastructure Agreements Policy (POL121)

NSW Large-Scale Solar Energy Guideline August 2022

NSW Benefit-Sharing Guideline November 2024

NSW Data Centre Guidelines 2026

Regional Leadership

Ethical Leadership

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

 

The key risk associated with not progressing the draft Policy is that Council may be required to respond to major project proposals without a clear, adopted framework for negotiating community benefit contributions. This could result in inconsistent outcomes, reduced transparency, diminished community trust and a weaker negotiating position with proponents.

 

Progressing the draft Policy to public exhibition helps mitigate this risk by establishing a clear policy position, testing the framework with the community and stakeholders, and enabling further refinement before adoption.

 

As the timing of the The Energy Legislation Amendment (Prioritising Renewable Energy) Bill 2026 passage remains uncertain, there is a risk that the Policy could be adopted before the final legislative framework is settled. In that circumstance, the Policy may require subsequent amendment to align with the enacted legislation and any associated directions or guidance. While the public exhibition process may provide an opportunity to consider legislative developments if they are passed within the public exhibition period and before adoption, it does not eliminate this residual risk.

Internal consultation has occurred with relevant sections of Council involved in strategic planning, infrastructure planning, community services, finance, governance and executive leadership.

 

Subject to Council endorsement, the draft Policy will be placed on public exhibition for 28 days. The exhibition process will provide an opportunity for community members, project proponents, government agencies and other stakeholders to review the draft Policy and provide feedback.

 

Submissions received during the exhibition period will be reviewed and reported back to Council, together with any recommended amendments to the draft Policy.

 

 

 

1⇩.	Draft Community Benefit Sharing Policy (POL 114)
2⇩.	NSW Benefit Sharing Guideline

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 24 August 2026

RP-6

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 24 August 2026

RP-6

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 24 August 2026

RP-7

 

RP-7            QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE

Author:        Scott Gray 

         

 

Summary:

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

 

 

Recommendation That Council receive and note the report.

 

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

 

Councillor A Parkins There have been comments from members of the community regarding Council potentially issuing fines to people at Wilks Park. Can Council confirm whether it intends to commence issuing fines?

Council has not adopted a blanket approach of issuing fines to people experiencing homelessness at Wilks Park. Council has continued to work with Homes NSW and support service providers to assist people staying at the park to access safer and more suitable accommodation.   Most people who received Compliance Action Requests have subsequently engaged with support services and relocated to alternative accommodation. Council has advised that it will not take compliance action against people who are actively engaging with Homes NSW and service providers to secure alternative accommodation.   For the remaining people who continue to refuse to engage with available support services and remain in breach of the conditions of stay at Wilks Park, Council has advised that compliance and enforcement action will be undertaken. Council has a range of enforcement options available, and any action will be considered on a case-by-case basis having regard to the individual circumstances.

 

Councillor L Tanner Can staff advise on when the Visitor Information Centre report will return to Council.

The Visitor Information Centre is in the final design stages with a report scheduled to be presented to Council in September.

 

 

Councillor L Tanner Can staff provide an update on what is happening with the old weighbridge and weighbridge shed at the Gregadoo Waste Management Centre?

Council has previously been approached by a number of businesses enquiring about the potential purchase of the former weighbridge and weighbridge shed at the Gregadoo Waste Management Centre (GWMC).   In response to these enquiries, officers undertook an investigation into the potential disposal of the asset. This included obtaining advice on valuation and exploring appropriate disposal options in accordance with Council's asset disposal processes. Indicative market advice suggested the weighbridge may have an auction value of approximately $10,000, provided the purchaser undertook removal at their own cost.   Following discussions with interested businesses, it became apparent that there was limited market demand for the asset. Prospective purchasers advised that, due to the significant costs associated with dismantling and removing the weighbridge and associated infrastructure, they would not be prepared to offer a purchase price and would instead expect Council to contribute towards, or cover, removal costs. As a result, disposal of the asset was not considered to represent the most financially advantageous outcome for Council at that time.   Given that the weighbridge remains in working order, it has been identified that there may be an opportunity to repur