Agenda and
Business Paper

 

Ordinary Meeting of Council

 

 

 

To be held on
Monday 29 January 2024

at 6.00pm

 

 

 

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

wagga.nsw.gov.au

NOTICE OF MEETING

 

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

 

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

 

 

WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCILLORS

 

STATEMENT OF ETHICAL OBLIGATIONS

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

 

QUORUM

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

 

 

Ordinary Meeting of Council AGENDA AND BUSINESS PAPER

Monday 29 January 2024

ORDER OF BUSINESS:

CLAUSE               PRECIS                                                                                                 PAGE

WELCOME TO COUNTRY                                                                                                     2

REFLECTION                                                                                                                         2

APOLOGIES                                                                                                                          2

Confirmation of Minutes

CM-1           ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING - 11 DECEMBER 2024                                      2

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST                                                                                            2

Motions Of Which Due Notice Has Been Given

NOM-1         NOTICE OF MOTION – ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TRIAL FOR PROCESSING DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS & TOWN PLANNING                                       3

Councillor Report

CR-1            LGNSW CONFERENCE DELEGATE REPORT - 12-14 NOVEMBER 2023            6

Reports from Staff

RP-1            DA23/0516 - Change of use to a centre based childcare facility (72 children) with associated alterations and additions and revised car-park layout AT 25-27 Hardy Avenue, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2650         46

RP-2            PLANNING PROPOSAL LEP23/0001 - PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE WAGGA WAGGA LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL PLAN 2010 FOR REZONING AND RECLASSIFICATION OF LAND LOCATED ON BOWEN PLACE AND BOYD PLACE, TOLLAND, WAGGA WAGGA                                                                              51

RP-3            FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE REPORT AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2023                   64

RP-4            2023/24 REGIONAL DROUGHT RESILIENCE PLANNING PROGRAM – ROUND 2 – GRANT OFFER                                                                                                   97

RP-5            QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE                                                                                100

Committee Minutes

M-1              CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES AUDIT, RISK AND IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE - 23 AND 30 NOVEMBER 2023                                                                                           102   

Confidential Reports

CONF-1       RFT2024-04 FORMER WIRADJURI LANDFILL REMEDIATION                           116

 

 

 

WELCOME TO COUNTRY

Aunty Gail Manderson will perform the Welcome to Country.

 

 

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              ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING - 11 DECEMBER 2024       

 

Recommendation That the Minutes of the proceedings of the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 11 December 2024 be confirmed as a true and accurate record.

 

 

1⇩.

Minutes - Ordinary Council Meeting - 11 December 2023

117

 

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 29 January 2024

NOM-1

 

Motions Of Which Due Notice Has Been Given

NOM-1           NOTICE OF MOTION – ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TRIAL FOR PROCESSING DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS & TOWN PLANNING

Author:          Councillor Richard Foley

 

 

Summary:

Notice of Motion by Councillor Richard Foley calling for Council to join the Artificial Intelligence (AI) in NSW Planning pilot project to support councils in faster decision-making, compliance checking, and to create workflow efficiencies in the development assessment process.

 

 

That Council writes to the New South Wales Minister for Planning and Public Spaces The Hon. Paul Scully MP expressing Council’s interest in participating in the upcoming proposed Artificial Intelligence in NSW Planning pilot project for planning matters.

Artificial Intelligence is evolving fast and its use in processing development applications and town planning is self-evident today in municipal Councils planning divisions in several jurisdictions worldwide including the Australian State of Victoria where some councils have greatly improved efficiencies and decision making regarding development applications (DA’s).

 

In the ever-evolving landscape of urban development and town planning, Artificial Intelligence (AI) emerges as a transformative force, offering a myriad of benefits that reshape the efficiency and effectiveness of development application processes. As cities expand and populations grow, the integration of AI proves instrumental in overcoming challenges and fostering sustainable urban development.

 

Council is not unlike most other councils across NSW all of which are besieged with huge backlogs and delays regarding DA’s and planning matters in general due to many factors. It’s time we looked to technology to assist our town planners in getting greater efficiencies and make their jobs easier which in turn progresses the positive growth potential of this city.

 

Below are just some of the benefits of using AI for processing DA’s and other planning matters:

 

1. Efficiency in Data Processing:

AI excels in processing vast amounts of data with speed and precision. When applied

to development applications, this capability streamlines the traditionally labour-intensive task of reviewing documents and extracting relevant information. Councils and planning authorities can now handle larger volumes of applications with reduced manual effort, significantly expediting the decision-making process using AI.

 

2. Pattern Recognition and Predictive Analysis:

AI's ability to recognise patterns and analyse historical data provides invaluable insights for town planning. By identifying common trends and potential challenges, AI empowers decision-makers to proactively address issues, optimise planning strategies, and enhance the overall resilience of urban development initiatives. Predictive analytics contribute to smarter, future-oriented planning, anticipating the needs of growing communities.

 

3. Transparent Decision-Making:

One of the key benefits of AI in development applications is the enhancement of transparency. AI systems, when integrated into the decision-making process, provide clear, objective criteria for approvals or rejections. This transparency not only fosters trust within the community but also allows stakeholders to understand and engage with the rationale behind planning decisions.

 

4. Resource Optimisation and Cost Reduction:

Automating routine tasks through AI enables local councils and planning authorities to allocate human resources more strategically. By reducing the burden of manual data entry and paperwork, staff can focus on higher-level tasks that require critical thinking and creative problem-solving. This optimised resource allocation results in cost savings and maximises the impact of human expertise.

 

5. Adaptability and Continuous Improvement:

AI systems are not static; they learn and adapt over time. When applied to town planning, this adaptability ensures that AI remains current with evolving regulations, community preferences, and best practices. The continuous learning process enhances the system's accuracy and relevance, providing a dynamic tool for urban development professionals.

 

6. Enhanced Community Engagement:

AI facilitates better communication between planning authorities and the community. Real-time updates, clear explanations of decisions, and interactive platforms powered by AI contribute to increased public engagement. This inclusivity fosters a collaborative environment, where citizens feel informed and involved in the development of their neighbourhoods.

 

In conclusion, the integration of AI in development applications and town planning brings about a paradigm shift in how cities manage growth and change. The benefits extend beyond efficiency gains, touching upon transparency, adaptability, and community engagement. As municipalities worldwide embrace AI technologies, they pave the way for more resilient, sustainable, and people-centric urban landscapes.

 

The future of town planning is, indeed, intelligent and therefore on this basis it is self-evident that Council should partake in the proposed AI pilot program as one of NSW biggest regional councils to be participant in trailing AI to find pathways to gaining faster decision making, better compliance outcomes and much faster efficiencies regarding DA’s.

 

N/A

Code of Conduct 2022

Code of Meeting Practice 2022

 

Community leadership and collaboration

Objective: Wagga Wagga has strong community leadership and a shared vision for the future

Our leaders represent our community

 

N/A

N/A

 

 

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 29 January 2024

CR-1

 

Councillor Report

CR-1              LGNSW CONFERENCE DELEGATE REPORT - 12-14 NOVEMBER 2023

Author:         The Mayor, Councillor Dallas Tout

Deputy Mayor, Councillor Amelia Parkins

Councillor Richard Foley

Councillor Jenny McKinnon

 

Recommendation That Council receive and note the report.

 

The 2023 LGNSW Annual Conference was held in Parramatta from Sunday, 12 November to Tuesday, 14 November 2023. The conference also gives the opportunity for delegates to meet with and discuss all things local government across the state.

 

The business of the conference ran from Monday morning to late Tuesday afternoon. As with prior years much of the Monday was set aside for discussion and voting on the 130 motions that had been submitted to conference to consider. The 2 day involved varying speakers and panel discussions.

 

Attached to this report is the document outlining in detail the 130 motions that were carried and became resolutions of conference. These resolutions will then be reviewed by the incoming board of LGNSW as they then form the policy and advocacy basis of the association for the upcoming year.

 

Motion 75 submitted by Wagga Wagga City Council was passed unanimously with a slight amendment. The wording of the formal resolution is “That Local Government NSW advocates to the NSW Government for the immediate establishment of a supervisory body to oversee the decisions of TransGrid, and that the supervisory body be an advisory body to the Minister”.

 

The Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig MP addressed the conference representing the Premier of NSW, Chris Minns MP. Pertinent points made by the Minister included:

 

·    The Minister is of the opinion that local government in NSW is hamstrung by a variety of legal requirements that are in place.

·    Confirmation that the removal of rate pegging is not on the agenda and the process of applying for special rate variations above the rate peg will continue.

·    The government has been working with IPART as the independent body which sets the determinations to have more timely and realistic methodology behind the annual determination of the rate peg amounts, he indicated that this may also include the costs of ESL funding.

·    A comment was made by the Minister that the use of the Code of Conduct process had been weaponised. No follow comment was forthcoming.

·    Regarding the Red Fleet and recording of assets on local government books the Minister stated that local government should follow the advice of the Auditor General

 

During conference the President released a media statement in relation to the new methodology released by IPART. The Chair of IPART was a member of one of the discussion panels in regard to financial sustainability on Day 2 of the conference.

 

The wording of the release from the LGNSW President is copied below:

 

NSW councils have welcomed IPART’s changes to the rate peg methodology as a victory for common sense, which should help ease the pressures currently pushing councils to the financial wall. 

 

Local Government NSW (LGNSW) said IPART was to be congratulated for listening to the genuine concerns of the local government sector.

 

“The new rate peg methodology is simpler than the old method and will result in rate pegs that more accurately reflect the very real impact that the changing cost of service provision has on councils,” President Cr Darriea Turley AM said.

 

“It’s a really positive outcome after an enormous amount of work and advocacy, not only by LGNSW but by individual councils who helped the IPART recognise the challenges they face.”

 

Cr Turley said the changes to the methodology announced by IPART included:

 

·      Forward-looking rather than retrospective indicators, to help keep pace with costs

·      A base rate calculation that recognised the different financial challenges faced by different kinds of councils, from large metropolitan to small rural councils

·      Three further components which have a specific budgetary impact on councils, including employee costs, asset costs and other operating costs

·      ESL adjustment components factored into the rate peg calculations.

 

“IPART has accepted the need for major change in the way the Emergency Services Levy was applied to councils,” Cr Turley said.

 

“It’s a clear recognition that the discontinuation of the State Government’s ESL subsidy has smashed council budgets, and that the continued payment of this levy by councils has a major impact on their financial sustainability”.

 

The conference structure will continue to be revised to ensure a balance between discussion of motions but also sufficient time for panels and speakers.

 

N/A

N/A

 

Community leadership and collaboration

Objective: Wagga Wagga has strong community leadership and a shared vision for the future

Our leaders represent our community

 

N/A

N/A

 

 

1⇩.

LGNSW 2023 Conference - Resolutions

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 29 January 2024

CR-1

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 29 January 2024

RP-1

 

Reports from Staff

RP-1               DA23/0516 - Change of use to a centre based childcare facility (72 children) with associated alterations and additions and revised car-park layout AT 25-27 Hardy Avenue, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2650

Author:                        Paul O’Brien   

General Manager:    Peter Thompson

         

 

Summary:

The report is for a development application and is presented to Council for determination.   Section 1.10 of the Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan 2010 requires any application that is the subject of 10 or more objections be referred to Council for determination.   A full assessment of the development application is provided as an attachment to this report.  The assessment has considered and addressed all relevant matters raised in the submissions.

 

 

Recommendation That Council approve DA23/0516 for a Change of use to a centre based childcare facility (72 children) with associated alterations and additions and revised car-park layout at 25-27 Hardy Avenue, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2650 (Lot 42 DP619677) subject to the conditions outlined in the s4.15 Assessment Report.

 

 

Applicant	Ben Dransfield
Owner	Latimers in Oz Pty Ltd Directors: Paul Latimer and Vivien Latimer
Development Cost	$792,000.00
Development Description	Change of use to a centre based childcare facility (72 children) with associated alterations and additions and revised car-park layout

 

Key Issues

·     Car park design and vehicle movements

·     Noise

·     Objections to the Development

·     NSW Childcare Planning Guidelines and compliance with legislation

 

Site Location

The subject site is on the northern side of Hardy Avenue approximately 75 metres to the west of the junction with Harrison Avenue, the lot is irregular in shape extending to 1697m2. The property consists of one two storey detached building that is currently vacant but was last in use as a medical centre, there is a driveway to the western boundary of the site with landscaping to the rear predominantly within the north-eastern part of the site. Car-parking is laid out to the front and side of the property. There are residential properties directly to the north, east and west of the site. To the south of the site is Calvary Hospital.

 

         

 

Assessment

·     The site is zoned as R1 General Residential under the provisions of the WWLEP 2010. Centre based child-care facilities are specifically listed as permitted with consent in the R1 zone.

·     The site is within a residential street in proximity to a hospital. A traffic impact report prepared in support of the development application confirms that there are no adverse impacts upon the local road network as a result of the proposal.

·     The car-park has been designed in accordance with Australian Standards and the number of parking spaces complies with the DCP.  Six of the carparking spaces are proposed in a tandem (stacked) format.  The 3 tandem spaces with restricted access will be reserved for staff use only. To ensure that these spaces are utilised prior to other parking spaces and to ensure their use does not prevent the 3 unrestricted spaces from being accessible to customers, management procedures will be incorporated within an operational management plan to be implemented at all times.

·     The application has been assessed against the Child Care Planning Guideline as required under Chapter 3 of State Environmental Planning Policy (Transport and Infrastructure) 2021. The assessment (detailed in the attached s4.15 report) has concluded that the development is compliant with the requirements of the Guideline.

·    An acoustic report has been prepared examining the impacts of noise from within the centre, from the outdoor play areas, from the vehicle movements to and from the site each day and from mechanical plant such as air conditioning units. The acoustic report concludes that, subject to recommendations, the proposal is capable of maintaining the acoustic amenity of both the occupants of the proposed centre and surrounding receivers and that internal noise levels and noise emission targets for the development will comply with the relevant acoustic requirements. The various recommendations include construction standards and management practices which have been addressed in recommended conditions of consent.

·     Hours 6.30am – 6:00pm Monday to Saturday. Use of external play areas will be restricted until after 7:00am.

·     The impacts of the development have been considered as part of the attached s4.15 report and deemed to be acceptable.

·     A number of submissions were received in objection to the application. Generally, the submissions related to traffic and parking concerns. The submissions have been addressed in detail under section (d) of the attached s4.15 report.

 

Appropriate conditions of consent are included to manage and mitigate the impacts of development. Subject to compliance with the conditions there are no anticipated impacts that would warrant refusal of the development application.

 

Reasons for Approval

1.    The proposed development is consistent with the provisions of SEPP (Transport and Infrastructure) 2021 and the NSW Child Care Planning Guidelines 2021.

2.    The proposed development is consistent with the provisions of the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010.

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

4.    The impacts of the proposed development are acceptable and can be managed via the recommended conditions of consent.

5.    The site is considered suitable for the proposed development and is in the public interest.

N/A

State Environmental Planning Policy (Transport and Infrastructure) 2021

Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010

Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan 2010

 

Growing Economy

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

Encourage and support investment to develop Wagga Wagga

Approval of the application is not considered to raise risk management issues for Council as the proposed development is consistent with SEPP (Transport and Infrastructure) 2021, LEP and DCP controls.

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

Mail

Traditional Media

Community Engagement

Digital

Rates notices insert

Direct mail

Letterbox drop

Council news

Media release

Media opportunity

TV/radio advertising

One-on-one meeting(s)

Community meeting(s)

Stakeholder workshop(s)

Drop-in session(s)

Survey/feedback form(s)

Have your Say

Email newsletter

Social media

Website

Inform

x

x

Consult

x

x

Involve

Collaborate

Other methods (please list specific details below)

 

 

 

1.	DA23/0516 - s4.15 Assessment Report - Provided under separate cover
2.	DA23/0516 - Plans set - Provided under separate cover
3.	DA23/0516 - Landscape plans - Provided under separate cover
4.	DA23/0516 - Statement of Environmental Effects - Provided under separate cover
5.	DA23/0516 - Traffic and Parking Impact Assessment - Provided under separate cover
6.	DA23/0516 - Acoustic Report - Provided under separate cover
7.	DA23/0516 - Plan of Management - Provided under separate cover
8.	DA23/0516 - Redacted Submissions - Provided under separate cover

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 29 January 2024

RP-2

 

RP-2               PLANNING PROPOSAL LEP23/0001 - PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE WAGGA WAGGA LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL PLAN 2010 FOR REZONING AND RECLASSIFICATION OF LAND LOCATED ON BOWEN PLACE AND BOYD PLACE, TOLLAND, WAGGA WAGGA

Author:         Lou Hawkins 

Executive:    John Sidgwick

         

 

Summary:

Council is in receipt of a Planning Proposal to amend the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010. The proposal seeks to rezone part Lot 12, DP1187387 from RE1 Public Recreation to R1 General Residential, and reclassify the land from community land to operational land.    Council considered the Planning Proposal LEP23/0001 at its meeting on 23 October 2023 adopting to defer consideration until a Plan of Management for cul-de-sac laneways classified as Community Land has been prepared.   The recommendation is to proceed with the Planning Proposal and request a Gateway Determination with the Department of Planning and Environment.

 

 

Recommendation That Council:  a       note Council Resolution 23/258 adopted at the Ordinary Meeting of Council held 23 October 2023 b       support Planning Proposal LEP23/0001 to amend the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010  c        submit the Planning Proposal LEP23/0001 to the Department of Planning and Environment for Gateway Determination  d       subject to endorsement of the Planning Proposal, undertake public exhibition and consultation with a further report to be prepared after the public exhibition period addressing any submissions made in respect of the Planning Proposal  e       note that any decision on the use or sale of Council owned land will be subject to a separate Council report f        note that staff will prepare a report on a Plan of Management for cul-de-sac laneways at a future date

 

Application Details 

 

Submitted Proposal:	Amendment to the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010 to reclassify land and amend zoning.
Applicant	Salvestro Planning on behalf of Mr Tony Balding
Land Owners:	Wagga Wagga City Council

Forward

Council at its Ordinary Meeting on 23 October 2023, considered Planning Proposal LEP23/0001 resolving as follows (23/258): 

 

That Council defer consideration of Planning Proposal LEP23/0001 until a Plan of Management for cul-de-sac laneways classified as Community Land has been prepared.

 

Following this resolution, council staff consulted to understand the nature of councillor concerns and provide additional information and clarity. Staff were advised that there were no concerns with the progression of the planning proposal on the basis that a plan of management for cul de sac laneways was prepared by staff in the future (noting current council priorities). As such this report is returned to council for consideration only seeking endorsement of the planning proposal at this time.

 

The Proposal 

Council is in receipt of a Planning Proposal to amend the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010. The proposal seeks to rezone part Lot 12, DP1187387 from RE1 Public Recreation to R1 General Residential and reclassify the land from community land to operational land. 

 

In 2023, Council was approached by the landowner adjoining the laneway at Bowen Place enquiring about the proposed future use of the land and whether Council would be prepared to consider disposal of the land. Staff advised that the property was classified as community land and that under provisions of the Local Government Act 1993, Council was prevented from disposing of the land whilst it was classified as community land. 

 

The landowner subsequently lodged a planning proposal to rezone the land from RE1 Public Recreation to R1 General Residential and to reclassify the land from community land to operational land. As part of Council’s initial scoping advice to the applicant in relation to the planning proposal, it was recommended that the adjacent laneway on Boyd Place also be included in the proposal to enable more efficient planning and use of Council resources.

 

 

 

The proposed amendments are shown in the maps below: 

Figure 1 and 2: Proposal outcomes for reclassification and rezoning respectively. 

 

The application and supporting documents are provided under separate covers (see attachments). 

 

Site and Locality 

Council owns both sites, with Bowen Place approximately 265m² in area and Boyd Place 171 m² in area. They are located approximately 6.3km south of the CBD (11 minutes’ drive). They are recreational in nature and are utilised as informal pedestrian laneways between the cul-de-sac and the active travel path.  

 

The existing parcel (see Figure 3 below) is zoned RE1 Public Recreation and is an open space corridor which functions to complement the active travel path. The character of the local area is largely low density urban and comprises a mix of social housing and private housing. R1 General Residential zoning exists to the north of the site, with SP2 Infrastructure zoning to the south (see Figures 1 and 2 above). The site adjoins Red Hill Road to the south, and there is an active travel path that runs parallel. Jubilee Park is situated to the south of Red Hill Road.  

 

Figure 3: Aerial view of the subject land. Source: Sixmaps. 

 

Key Considerations 

 

The Planning Proposal has been assessed against Council’s strategies, policies and guidelines, the 2023 NSW Local Environmental Plan Making Guideline and the Ministerial Directions. The key considerations are identified below:  

 

1.    Precinct-level Approach 

 

When considering changes to planning provisions, consideration is to be given to applying the changes to a larger precinct, rather than solely applying at a smaller scale, which achieves site-specific outcomes only. The precinct-level approach enables Council to better plan for infrastructure servicing and delivery and facilitates efficient planning. As such, as part of Council’s initial scoping advice to the applicant it was recommended that the adjacent laneway on Boyd Place be similarly included in the proposal to enable more efficient planning and use of Council resources. 

 

2.    Council’s Vision of Strategic Intent 

 

There is general support for the Planning Proposal to rezone land from RE1 to R1 in both local and regional strategies. 

 

·    Riverina Murray Regional Plan 2041 

 

The Riverina Murray Regional Plan outlines a goal to promote the growth of regional cities. The proposal is consistent with this plan due to the opportunity to facilitate additional housing.  

 

 

  Wagga Wagga Local Strategic Planning Statement – Wagga Wagga 2040 

 

The Wagga Wagga Local Strategic Planning Statement – Wagga Wagga 2040 (LSPS) was adopted on 8 February 2021 and provides a blueprint for how and where Wagga Wagga will grow into the future. It sets Council’s 20-year vision for land use planning under key themes and principles. The proposal is consistent with this plan due to the opportunity to facilitate additional housing. 

 

3.    Infrastructure 

 

One of the key issues to consider with Local Environmental Plan (LEP) amendments is the impact of any proposal on existing infrastructure and the ability of existing networks to cope with increased demands. The site is in an existing urban environment and there is opportunity to connect to existing services and infrastructure including roads, reticulated water, stormwater, sewer and waste collection services. Other infrastructure networks and services, including public transport, waste management/recycling, health, education, emergency, mail and other community services are established in the local area and are accessible to the subject sites. The Planning Proposal’s intent is to enable at least one additional dwelling on the Bowen place subject site, and it also provides the opportunity to facilitate at least one additional dwelling on the Boyd Place subject site in the future, with both sites having minimal impact on public infrastructure.  

 

4.    LEP Provisions  

 

·    Existing provisions 

 

The site is currently zoned RE1 Public Recreation and is classified as community land. 

 

·    Proposed provisions 

 

The amendment will rezone the land to R1 General Residential and reclassify the land to operational land. The proposed changes to the LEP may facilitate additional dwellings.

 

5.    Development Control Plan  

 

Future development of the subject land will be undertaken in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan 2010 (DCP). 

 

6.    Additional Considerations 

 

Urban Design and Access  

Pedestrian movement and access corridors within residential housing estates are an integral part of good urban design. However, the two subject laneways are located at the end of cul de sacs and lack clear legibility, are not signposted, do not have paving or lighting and do not connect well with the existing pedestrian network (see Figures 4-6 below).

 

Figure 4: Site Photos Bowen Place 

Figure 5: Site Photos Bowen Place 

 

Figure 6: Site Photo Boyd Place 

While, the laneways can be used to support movement and connectivity, the loss of these laneways does not significantly affect access to the balance of the open space corridor off Red Hill Road and Glenfield Road, with access retained from Brooks Circuit (approximately 5-minute walk west of Boyd Place) and Ramus Street to the east (approximately 3-minute walk east of Bowen Place). Access to the cul-de-sacs in the event of emergencies is also maintained via these routes.

In this instance, the thoroughfares do not appear to provide additional amenity or benefit to the community in the context of urban design principles (such as movement and connectivity, and access to greenspace) and Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles. 

 

It is noted that as part of the Tolland Renewal Project, the Land and Housing Corporation (LAHC) plan to reconnect a number of cul de sacs within the Tolland Estate as part of the Masterplan. The size and irregular shape of Bowen Place and Boyd place make such a connection unfeasible.

 

Crime 

According to NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) the area around the laneways is a city hotspot for malicious damage to property, break and enters and assault. A search of the customer enquiry database indicates that the laneways have been a resource burden on Council in terms of complaints from customers in and around the laneways relating to rubbish dumping and requests for maintenance. This is consistent with the submission from the Riverina Police District, who are supportive of the closure of the laneways (see Attachment 5). The Riverina Police District submission references research that suggests mixed use laneways in primarily residential areas facilitate crime. Local Police identify these laneways are used to evade Police and are sites that attract litter and graffiti.  

 

This information indicates that the laneways have been a resource burden on Council and lane closures in these locations could reduce opportunities for rubbish dumping, anti-social behaviours, and assist Police with crime prevention.  

Statutory Planning Considerations

Internal feedback has indicated that alternative land uses for these parts of Lot 12, DP1187387 are not suitable given the lot size, zoning and configuration of the allotments. The Boyd Place laneway has potential for a dwelling extension or dual occupancy at 4 or 5 Boyd Place. The Bowen Place laneway has potential for expansion of a multi-dwelling development at 4 Bowen Place or a dwelling extension or dual occupancy at 3 Bowen Place. On balance, based on the feasible land use options available to the sites, it is considered this proposal would enable a beneficial planning outcome for Council, by supplementing the development opportunities for the adjoining land.

 

The Development Application on the adjacent lot to the west of the Bowen Place laneway was for installation of two manufactured dwellings (dual occupancy) and 3 lot community title subdivision (DA22/0383). Determined 2/11/2022, multi-residential development category.

 

Economic Implications

A future sale of the subject sites to facilitate residential opportunities will create economic opportunities through the construction process. The sale of the subject sites to adjoining landowners will create community benefit.

 

Reclassification

This Planning Proposal will facilitate a reclassification and rezoning of the site to enable future residential opportunities. The LEP practice note ‘Classification and reclassification of public land through a local environmental plan’ has been considered in relation to reclassification of land through an LEP. This document clarifies issues arising in relation to public reserve status and any interests affecting the land.

 

The reclassification of the site will enable Council to consider disposing of the site, which will result in a loss of community classified land. The reclassification will require a community hearing to be undertaken to ensure community members can present their concerns on the reclassification and potential loss of community land. This will be conditioned as part of the Gateway Determination if approved by NSW Department of Planning and Environment. It is noted that the practice note specifies the proposal must be exhibited for at least 28 days. A public hearing must be held and a further 21 days public notice needs to be given before the hearing. This provides the community an opportunity to discuss issues with an independent person in a public forum. If the proposal is supported and the plan is made, the sale of the land will be facilitated by Council’s property team.

 

Loss of Public Open Space

As the proposed land is currently being used for the purposes of a laneway, it is considered that the loss of public open space is minor, and from a social and economic perspective, the current use is not considered the best planning outcome for the land. The proposal will result in a negligible loss of open space as access to the active travel path, Red Hill Road and Jubilee Park can occur via Ramus Street. Urban design considerations have been explored as part of the planning assessment. Selling the land would remove the ongoing maintenance burden for council and has the potential to reduce CPTED concerns. The proceeds from the potential sale of the lots will be invested in the community.

 

 

Tolland Renewal Masterplan

The Tolland Renewal Masterplan was not initially able to be shared with Council by Land and Housing Corporation (LAHC) due to confidentiality reasons during the initial stages of the assessment. During this time the Planning Proposal was referred to LAHC. No comment was received, nor any objection raised. As there has been no objection to the proposal by LAHC, the proposal does not appear to be inconsistent with the draft Tolland Renewal Masterplan, as per the analysis below. There will be additional opportunity for comment at the public exhibition stage of the Planning Proposal process. The benefit of proceeding with the amendments proposed by this application is that it may have less risk than if the amendments were to be incorporated into a future Planning Proposal associated with the Tolland Renewal Masterplan.

 

The Tolland Renewal Masterplan is currently on public exhibition between 11 September to 24 October 2023. As can be seen in Figure 7, Boyd Place is shown as connecting through to the eastern Jordan Place. This is not inconsistent with the Planning Proposal. Bowen Place is still reflected as a cul-de-sac, which aligns with the Planning Proposal. The proposed land use in the Masterplan appears to be residential and as such the proposed reclassification and rezoning appears to be consistent with the draft Masterplan.

 

 

Figure 7 Landscape Masterplan extracted from Draft Concept Masterplan – Tolland Renewal Project 

 

Figure 8 Neighbourhood Masterplan extracted from Draft Concept Masterplan – Tolland Renewal Project 

 

Disposal Process 

 

The process for disposing of Council owned land is outlined in Council’s Acquisition, Disposal and Management of Land Policy POL 038. The policy restates the legislative position that Council cannot deal with community land other than to become or be added to a Crown reserve or National Park, and therefore a reclassification is necessary to facilitate this course of action.

 

The policy provides that disposal of land should occur at market value, and by open competitive processes unless exceptional circumstances warrant disposal by means of direct negotiations. One such exceptional circumstance is where the only potential purchaser is the adjoining owner(s). In this case, the size of the subject sites limits the development potential of the land by third parties. This may be an issue for consideration in this case.

 

A further report providing a detailed disposal brief and recommendations as to the proposed disposal strategy will be provided to Council for consideration if the Planning Proposal is supported.

 

Although the Planning Proposal seeks to rezone and reclassify two parts of Lot 12, DP1187387, there is currently active interest in the potential disposal of the Bowen Place subject site.

Conclusion

 

The submitted Planning Proposal seeks to amend the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010 by rezoning part of the subject land to R1 General Residential and reclassifying part of the subject land as operational land. 

 

The two sites have the potential to be infill sites near existing services. The Planning Proposal may facilitate higher density development in the area and may provide additional residential options.  

 

The proposal is supported for the following reasons: 

 

·   It creates an opportunity for new infill development within the existing urban area.  

·   It provides benefits to the broader community. 

·   It is consistent with the relevant strategic documents. 

·   It is consistent with Council’s vision and strategic intent. 

·   It is consistent with relevant S9.1 Ministerial Directions and SEPPs. 

·   The investigation of the subject land provided with the application is sufficient to support the Planning Proposal and forward the proposal to the Department of Planning and Environment seeking Gateway Determination. 

 

It is recommended that Council endorse the Planning Proposal and forward it to the NSW Department of Planning and Environment seeking Gateway Determination. 

 

The application has been submitted with the applicable Standard LEP Amendment fee of $11,400. The proponent has paid this fee. 

 

 

Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979

Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010 

Chapter 15, Part 8, Division 2 of the Local Government Act 1993 

 

The Environment

Objective: Future growth and development of Wagga Wagga is planned for in a sustainable manner

Ensure sustainable urban development

 

An approval of the proposal may be subject to public scrutiny during the public consultation process and may put additional pressure on Council to consider the increase of density around the central business district. 

 

Refusal of the application may result in an appeal process. The applicant can appeal Council’s decision by submitting the Planning Proposal to the Department of Planning and Environment through the Rezoning Review process. 

 

A Councillor workshop was held on 16 September where officers presented the Planning Proposal to Councillors.  

 

Internal referral occurred. There is support for the proposal to proceed. 

 

Formal public consultation with the general public and relevant referral agencies specified by the conditions of the Gateway will occur after the Gateway Determination. 

 

As this proposal includes a reclassification of community land to operational, a public hearing will be conditioned as part of any Gateway Determination. The public hearing will be chaired by an independent person and will enable the opportunity for affected community members to raise concerns in a public forum. The independent chair will prepare a report with recommendations based on the public hearing. In accordance with the Practice note PN 16-001 - Classification and reclassification of public land through and environmental plan - the exhibition period is a minimum of 28 days with a further 21 days public notice required for the public hearing.  

 

Proposed consultation methods are indicated in 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

X

X

X

X

Involve

Collaborate

Other methods (please list specific details below)

 

 

 

 

1.	LEP23/0001 Planning Proposal - Provided under separate cover
2.	LEP23/0001 Infrastructure Services Mapping - Provided under separate cover
3.	LEP23/0001 Information Checklist - Provided under separate cover
4.	LEP23/0001 Police Submission - Provided under separate cover
5.	LEP23/0001 Planning Proposal Application - Provided under separate cover
6.	LEP23/0001 Title Search and Deposited Plan - Provided under separate cover
7.	LEP23/0001 Planning Proposal Assessment Report - Provided under separate cover

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 29 January 2024

RP-3

 

RP-3               FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE REPORT AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2023

Author:          Carolyn Rodney 

         

 

Summary:

This report is for Council to consider information presented on the 2023/24 budget and Long-Term Financial Plan, and details Council’s external investments and performance as at 31 December 2023.

 

 

Recommendation That Council: a       approve the proposed 2023/24 budget variations for the month ended 31 December 2023 and note the balanced budget position as presented in this report b       approve the proposed budget variations to the 2023/24 Long Term Financial Plan Capital Works Program including new projects and future year timing adjustments c        note the contract variation to Gardiner Street Path (University Link) as part of the Active Travel Plan Stage 1 Project as presented in this report d       note the Responsible Accounting Officer’s reports, in accordance with the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 (Part 9 Division 3: Clause 203) that the financial position of Council is satisfactory having regard to the original estimates of income and expenditure and the recommendations made above e       note the details of the external investments as of 31 December 2023 in accordance with section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993

 

Wagga Wagga City Council (Council) forecasts a balanced budget position as of 31 December 2023.

 

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 December when compared to budget ($481,343 up on the monthly budget). This is mainly due to better than budgeted returns on Council’s investment portfolio as a result of the ongoing movement in the interest rate environment, as well as a higher than anticipated investment portfolio balance.

 

Key Performance Indicators

 

 

 

OPERATING INCOME

Total operating income is 48% of approved budget and is tracking slightly behind for the month of December 2023. An adjustment has been made to reflect the levy of rates that occurred at the start of the financial year. Excluding this adjustment, operating income received is 76% when compared to budget.

 

OPERATING EXPENSES

Total operating expenditure is 52% of approved budget and is tracking over budget at this stage of the financial year, which is due to the payment of annual one-off expenses such as rates and insurance, along with one-off commitments raised for operating projects and multi-year contracts.

 

CAPITAL INCOME

Total capital income is 55% of approved budget. It is important to note that the actual income from capital is influenced by the timing of the receipt of capital grants and contributions in relation to expenditure incurred on the projects.

 

CAPITAL EXPENDITURE

Total capital expenditure including commitments is 54% of approved budget including pending projects.  Excluding commitments, the total expenditure is 28% when compared to the approved budget.

 

WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE 1 JULY 2023 TO 31 DECEMBER 2023
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT
	ORIGINAL BUDGET 2023/24	BUDGET ADJ 2023/24	APPROVED BUDGET 2023/24	YTD ACTUAL   EXCL COMMT'S 2023/24	COMMT'S 2023/24	YTD ACTUAL + COMMT'S 2023/24	YTD % OF BUD
Revenue
Rates & Annual Charges	(79,700,947)	0	(79,700,947)	(39,190,088)	0	(39,190,088)	49%
User Charges & Fees	(32,607,964)	1,992,180	(30,615,784)	(15,002,418)	0	(15,002,418)	49%
Other Revenues	(3,040,358)	0	(3,040,358)	(3,185,316)	0	(3,185,316)	105%
Grants & Contributions provided for Operating Purposes	(13,891,687)	(5,994,554)	(19,886,241)	(3,902,141)	0	(3,902,141)	20%
Grants & Contributions provided for Capital Purposes	(43,630,578)	(5,988,308)	(49,618,886)	(28,591,291)	0	(28,591,291)	58%
Interest & Investment Revenue	(4,873,916)	0	(4,873,916)	(4,423,088)	0	(4,423,088)	91%
Other Income	(1,564,445)	(22,667)	(1,587,112)	(983,167)	0	(983,167)	62%
Total Revenue	(179,309,895)	(10,013,349)	(189,323,244)	(95,277,509)	0	(95,277,509)	50%
Expenses
Employee Benefits & On-Costs	56,172,711	328,830	56,501,540	24,981,173	1,530	24,982,703	44%
Borrowing Costs	3,363,314	0	3,363,314	2,013,983	0	2,013,983	60%
Materials & Services	41,316,274	15,113,871	56,430,145	25,894,304	8,375,243	34,269,548	61%
Depreciation & Amortisation	44,291,577	0	44,291,577	22,145,788	0	22,145,788	50%
Other Expenses	1,954,429	233,560	2,187,989	1,187,335	366,167	1,553,502	71%
Total Expenses	147,098,304	15,676,261	162,774,565	76,222,583	8,742,941	84,965,524	52%
Net Operating (Profit)/Loss	(32,211,591)	5,662,912	(26,548,679)	(19,054,926)	8,742,941	(10,311,985)
Net Operating Result Before Capital (Profit)/Loss	11,418,987	11,651,220	23,070,207	9,536,365	8,742,941	18,279,305
Cap/Reserve Movements
Capital Expenditure - One Off Confirmed	33,539,246	31,076,533	64,615,779	20,101,222	20,297,299	40,398,521	63%
Capital Expenditure - Recurrent	21,649,500	9,568,082	31,217,583	5,421,441	6,651,458	12,072,899	39%
Capital Expenditure - Pending Projects	38,732,266	(37,984,161)	748,105	8,681	119,815	128,496	0%
Loan Repayments	7,523,436	0	7,523,436	3,261,718	0	3,261,718	43%
New Loan Borrowings	(10,609,635)	7,043,364	(3,566,271)	0	0	0	0%
Sale of Assets	(1,490,575)	(2,317,180)	(3,807,755)	(541,049)	0	(541,049)	14%
Net Movements Reserves	(12,841,071)	(13,049,551)	(25,890,622)	0	0	0	0%
Total Cap/Res Movements	76,503,167	(5,662,912)	70,840,256	28,252,013	27,068,572	55,320,585
Net Result after Depreciation	44,291,577	(0)	44,291,577	9,197,087	35,811,513	45,008,599
Add back Depreciation Expense	44,291,577	0	44,291,577	22,145,788	0	22,145,788	50%
Cash Budget (Surplus)/Deficit	0	0	0	(12,948,702)	35,811,513	22,862,811

 

Years 2-10 Long Term Financial Plan (Surplus) /Deficit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2023/24 Revised Budget Result – (Surplus) / Deficit	$’000s
Original 2023/24 Budget Result as adopted by Council Total Budget Variations approved to date. Budget Variations for December 2023	$0K $0K $0K
Proposed Revised Budget result for 31 December 2023 - (Surplus) / Deficit	$0K

 

The proposed Operating and Capital Budget Variations for 31 December 2023 which affect the current 2023/24 financial year are listed below.

 

 

 

The following 2023/24 project has been reviewed and it is being proposed to transfer it from the Recurrent Program to the Delivery Program for completion in this financial year. There has been no change to the total budget of the project.

 

Job No.	Project Title	2023/24 Current One-Off Confirmed	2023/24 Current Recurrent	2023/24 Proposed One-Off Confirmed	2023/24 Proposed Recurrent
17749	Renew Community Amenities – Gissing Oval	$0	$756,633	$756,633	$0

 

 

2023/24 Capital Works Summary

 

Capital Works	Approved Budget	Proposed Movement	Proposed Budget
One-off	$64,615,779	$998,633	$65,614,412
Recurrent	$31,217,583	($756,633)	$30,460,950
Pending	$748,105	$0	$748,105
Total Capital Works	$96,581,467	$242,000	$96,823,467

 

 

Contract variation to Gardiner St path (University Link) - $162,342.50 (GST exclusive)

 

The Lump Sum contract for part of University Link ATP path along Gardiner St was awarded to CRS in 2022 for $306,142.

 

The works have been unable to commence until November 2023 due to a combination of poor site conditions and excess moisture and contractor availability. The scope of the project has changed some sections of the path from the asphalt surface to concrete following the geotechnical investigation which determined some sections of the pathway contained material unsuitable for the construction of the path in asphalt as originally intended.

 

The Variation for this concrete surface is $162,342.50. The revised contract value for Gardiner St work is $468,484.50.

 

The total project budget for ATP Stage 1 is $13.2M, funded by WWCC developer contributions ($1.4M) and State Government grant funding ($11.8M). The remaining budget as at 12 January 2024 is $1.6M. This variation of $162,342.50 will be funded from the overall existing ATP Stage 1 budget.

 

There is a considerable amount of work remaining, predominantly relating to the Forest Hill link rail trail which is still required to complete the project. A detailed report including the status of the overall project, and the remaining work and required funding and budget variation will be submitted to February 2024 Council meeting.

Current Restrictions

 

 

RESERVES SUMMARY
31 DECEMBER 2023
	CLOSING BALANCE 2022/23	ADOPTED RESERVE TRANSFERS 2023/24	BUDGET VARIATIONS APPROVED UP TO COUNCIL MEETING 11.12.2023	PROPOSED CHANGES for Council Resolution*	BALANCE AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2023
Externally Restricted
Developer Contributions - Section 7.11	(33,518,693)	5,650,317	(2,146,653)		(30,015,029)
Developer Contributions - Section 7.12	(427,766)	(28,137)	0		(455,903)
Developer Contributions - Stormwater Section 64	(7,952,971)	461,121	(1,003,403)		(8,495,253)
Sewer Fund	(45,473,006)	(486,810)	(920,244)		(46,880,059)
Solid Waste	(28,001,560)	1,115,349	(935,606)		(27,821,816)
Specific Purpose Unexpended Grants & Contributions	(13,419,243)	0	13,419,243		0
SRV Levee Reserve	(6,316,594)	0	46,718		(6,269,877)
Stormwater Levy	(5,350,848)	3,299,121	(2,906,312)		(4,958,039)
Total Externally Restricted	(140,460,680)	10,010,962	5,553,743	0	(124,895,976)
Internally Restricted
Additional Special Variation (ASV)	(630,214)	(304,627)	0		(934,841)
Airport	0	0	0		0
Art Gallery	(3,804)	0	0		(3,804)
Bridge Replacement	(277,544)	0	40,739		(236,805)
Buildings	(1,816,155)	222,330	255,413		(1,338,412)
CCTV	(47,471)	12,476	0		(34,995)
Cemetery	(1,246,587)	(240,585)	30,437		(1,456,735)
Civic Theatre	(127)	0	0		(127)
Civil Infrastructure	(8,750,164)	1,975,590	381,233	242,000	(6,151,341)
Council Election	(305,964)	(117,566)	0		(423,531)
Economic Development	(407,131)	0	388,773		(18,358)
Emergency Events Reserve	(245,427)	(91,807)	50,000		(287,235)
Employee Leave Entitlements Gen Fund	(3,604,926)	0	0		(3,604,926)
Environmental Conservation	(116,578)	0	0		(116,578)
Event Attraction	(969,436)	0	728,755		(240,681)
Financial Assistance Grants in Advance	(12,361,442)	0	0		(12,361,442)
Grant Co-Funding	(500,000)	0	0		(500,000)
Gravel Pit Restoration	(807,726)	13,333	26,500		(767,892)
Information Services	(2,419,649)	906,761	92,772		(1,420,116)
Insurance Variations	(50,000)	0	0		(50,000)
Internal Loans	(6,215,667)	(768,775)	240,226		(6,744,217)
Lake Albert Improvements	(127,751)	38,377	0		(89,374)
Library	(166,718)	(155,915)	0		(322,633)
Livestock Marketing Centre	(6,581,531)	1,077,258	4,194,727		(1,309,546)
Museum Acquisitions	(54,612)	10,000	0		(44,612)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Investment Summary as at 31 December 2023

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 30/11/2023 $	Closing Balance Invested 31/12/2023 $	December EOM Current Yield %	December EOM % of Portfolio	Investment Date	Maturity Date	Term (months)
At Call Accounts
NAB	AA-	685,082	160,704	4.35%	0.07%	N/A	N/A	N/A
CBA	AA-	13,618,148	3,966,559	4.35%	1.75%	N/A	N/A	N/A
CBA	AA-	21,704,508	21,784,034	4.40%	9.64%	N/A	N/A	N/A
Macquarie Bank	A+	9,478,088	9,510,293	4.15%	4.21%	N/A	N/A	N/A
Total At Call Accounts		45,485,827	35,421,589	4.33%	15.67%
Short Term Deposits
AMP	BBB	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.40%	0.44%	15/11/2023	15/11/2024	12
CBA	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.69%	0.44%	30/01/2023	30/01/2024	12
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.06%	0.44%	24/05/2023	24/05/2024	12
Australian Unity	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.44%	0.44%	8/06/2023	11/06/2024	12
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.62%	0.88%	26/06/2023	26/06/2024	12
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.65%	0.88%	30/06/2023	28/06/2024	12
Heritage and People's Choice	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.80%	0.44%	10/07/2023	10/07/2024	12
CBA	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.27%	0.88%	31/08/2023	30/08/2024	12
Australian Unity	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.49%	0.44%	27/11/2023	27/11/2024	12
Suncorp	A+	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.46%	0.88%	30/11/2023	29/11/2024	12
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.46%	0.44%	30/11/2023	29/11/2024	12
BankVic	BBB+	0	1,000,000	5.45%	0.44%	4/12/2023	4/12/2024	12
AMP	BBB	0	2,000,000	5.35%	0.88%	14/12/2023	16/12/2024	12
Total Short Term Deposits		15,000,000	18,000,000	5.42%	7.96%
Medium Term Deposits
BOQ	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.20%	0.88%	4/01/2022	4/01/2024	24
BOQ	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	3.78%	0.44%	1/06/2022	3/06/2024	24
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.32%	0.88%	28/06/2021	29/06/2026	60
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.80%	0.88%	15/11/2021	17/11/2025	48
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	2.03%	0.88%	6/11/2019	6/11/2024	60
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.83%	0.88%	28/11/2019	28/11/2024	60
Judo Bank	BBB-	1,000,000	0	0.00%	0.00%	3/12/2021	4/12/2023	24
ICBC	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.75%	0.44%	6/01/2020	8/01/2024	48
BOQ	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	2.00%	0.44%	28/02/2020	28/02/2025	60
Police Credit Union	NR	1,000,000	1,000,000	2.20%	0.44%	1/04/2020	1/04/2025	60
ICBC	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.85%	0.44%	29/05/2020	29/05/2025	60
ICBC	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.86%	0.44%	1/06/2020	2/06/2025	60
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.75%	0.88%	25/06/2020	25/06/2025	60
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.75%	0.88%	25/06/2020	25/06/2025	60
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.60%	0.88%	29/06/2020	28/06/2024	48
ICBC	A	3,000,000	3,000,000	5.07%	1.33%	30/06/2022	30/06/2027	60
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.42%	0.88%	7/07/2020	8/07/2024	48
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.50%	0.88%	17/08/2020	18/08/2025	60
BoQ	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.25%	0.44%	7/09/2020	8/09/2025	60
BoQ	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.25%	0.88%	14/09/2020	15/09/2025	60
NAB	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.23%	0.44%	14/09/2023	16/09/2024	12
ICBC	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.20%	0.44%	7/12/2020	8/12/2025	60
NAB	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	0.95%	0.88%	29/01/2021	29/01/2026	60
NAB	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.08%	0.44%	22/02/2021	20/02/2026	60
NAB	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.25%	0.88%	3/03/2021	2/03/2026	60
NAB	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.40%	0.88%	21/06/2021	19/06/2026	60
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.32%	0.88%	25/06/2021	25/06/2026	60
ICBC	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.32%	0.44%	25/08/2021	25/08/2026	60
AMP	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.00%	0.88%	18/10/2021	17/10/2024	36
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.56%	0.88%	30/11/2021	29/11/2024	36
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	2.00%	0.88%	8/02/2022	10/02/2025	36
P&N Bank	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	2.40%	0.88%	9/03/2022	10/03/2025	36
P&N Bank	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	2.00%	0.88%	10/03/2022	11/03/2024	24
MyState	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	2.20%	0.88%	2/03/2022	3/03/2025	36
CBA	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	3.28%	0.88%	26/04/2022	26/04/2024	24
CBA	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	3.78%	0.88%	4/05/2022	6/05/2024	24
CBA	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	3.99%	0.88%	4/05/2022	5/05/2025	36
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	3.76%	0.44%	23/05/2022	23/05/2024	24
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	3.95%	0.88%	6/06/2022	6/06/2024	24
Australian Unity	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.15%	0.88%	8/06/2022	11/06/2024	24
Suncorp	A+	2,000,000	0	0.00%	0.00%	22/06/2022	14/12/2023	18
MyState	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.45%	0.88%	29/06/2022	28/06/2024	24
BoQ	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.50%	0.44%	7/07/2022	7/07/2025	36
CBA	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.25%	0.44%	12/08/2022	12/08/2025	36
P&N Bank	BBB	3,000,000	3,000,000	4.55%	1.33%	29/08/2022	29/08/2025	36
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.55%	0.88%	2/09/2022	2/09/2025	36
P&N Bank	BBB	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.40%	0.44%	9/09/2022	9/09/2025	36
BoQ	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.70%	0.44%	4/10/2022	4/10/2024	24
AMP	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.95%	0.88%	21/10/2022	21/10/2024	24
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.20%	0.88%	21/10/2022	21/10/2025	36
AMP	BBB	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.75%	0.44%	15/11/2022	14/11/2024	24
AMP	BBB	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.80%	0.44%	21/11/2022	20/11/2025	36
P&N Bank	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.75%	0.88%	16/12/2022	16/12/2024	24
Police Credit Union	NR	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.04%	0.88%	15/02/2023	17/02/2025	24
Police Credit Union	NR	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.94%	0.88%	14/03/2023	14/03/2025	24
P&N Bank	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.00%	0.88%	14/03/2023	15/03/2027	48
Hume Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.75%	0.88%	31/03/2023	31/03/2025	24
Auswide	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.95%	0.88%	13/04/2023	13/04/2026	36
P&N Bank	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.20%	0.88%	20/04/2023	20/04/2027	48
P&N Bank	BBB	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.20%	0.44%	26/05/2023	26/05/2026	36
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.37%	0.88%	21/08/2023	21/08/2025	24
P&N Bank	BBB	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.45%	0.44%	30/11/2023	28/11/2025	24
ING Bank	A	0	2,000,000	5.20%	0.88%	14/12/2023	15/12/2025	24
Total Medium Term Deposits		105,000,000	104,000,000	3.16%	46.01%
Floating Rate Notes - Senior Debt
Westpac	AA-	2,512,140	2,522,410	BBSW + 88	1.12%	16/05/2019	16/08/2024	63
Suncorp	A+	1,256,295	1,261,459	BBSW + 78	0.56%	30/07/2019	30/07/2024	60
ANZ	AA-	2,004,429	2,012,845	BBSW + 77	0.89%	29/08/2019	29/08/2024	60
HSBC	AA-	2,526,491	2,506,012	BBSW + 83	1.11%	27/09/2019	27/09/2024	60
ANZ	AA-	1,512,519	1,518,636	BBSW + 76	0.67%	16/01/2020	16/01/2025	60
NAB	AA-	2,015,662	2,023,875	BBSW + 77	0.90%	21/01/2020	21/01/2025	60
Newcastle Permanent	BBB	1,102,368	1,107,533	BBSW + 112	0.49%	4/02/2020	4/02/2025	60
Macquarie Bank	A+	2,009,087	2,017,499	BBSW + 84	0.89%	12/02/2020	12/02/2025	60
BOQ Covered	AAA	553,171	555,949	BBSW + 107	0.25%	14/05/2020	14/05/2025	60
UBS	A+	1,503,882	1,510,992	BBSW + 87	0.67%	30/07/2020	30/07/2025	60
CBA	AA-	2,005,089	2,013,900	BBSW + 70	0.89%	14/01/2022	14/01/2027	60
Rabobank	A+	1,998,148	2,007,308	BBSW + 73	0.89%	27/01/2022	27/01/2027	60
Newcastle Permanent	BBB	985,230	990,780	BBSW + 100	0.44%	10/02/2022	10/02/2027	60
NAB	AA-	2,393,454	2,404,766	BBSW + 72	1.06%	25/02/2022	25/02/2027	60
Bendigo-Adelaide	BBB+	1,668,369	1,654,853	BBSW + 98	0.73%	17/03/2022	17/03/2025	36
ANZ	AA-	2,013,555	2,023,732	BBSW + 97	0.90%	12/05/2022	12/05/2027	60
NAB	AA-	1,707,268	1,714,951	BBSW + 90	0.76%	30/05/2022	30/05/2025	36
Suncorp	A+	902,536	906,873	BBSW + 93	0.40%	22/08/2022	22/08/2025	36
ANZ	AA-	2,538,671	2,551,227	BBSW + 120	1.13%	4/11/2022	4/11/2027	60
NAB	AA-	2,529,216	2,543,831	BBSW + 120	1.13%	25/11/2022	25/11/2027	60
Suncorp	A+	1,117,663	1,108,482	BBSW + 125	0.49%	14/12/2022	14/12/2027	60
CBA	AA-	2,032,511	2,042,389	BBSW + 115	0.90%	13/01/2023	13/01/2028	60
Bank Australia	BBB	1,906,587	1,917,934	BBSW + 155	0.85%	22/02/2023	22/02/2027	48
Bendigo-Adelaide Covered	AAA	1,011,195	1,002,999	BBSW + 115	0.44%	16/06/2023	16/06/2028	60
CBA	AA-	2,506,826	2,520,677	BBSW + 95	1.12%	17/08/2023	17/08/2028	60
ANZ	AA-	2,122,939	2,107,513	BBSW + 93	0.93%	11/09/2023	11/09/2028	60
Bank Australia	BBB	1,658,682	1,666,942	BBSW + 150	0.74%	30/10/2023	30/10/2026	36
Total Floating Rate Notes - Senior Debt		48,093,982	48,216,368		21.33%
Fixed Rate Bonds
ING Covered	AAA	677,210	687,832	1.10%	0.30%	19/08/2021	19/08/2026	60
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	3,000,000	3,000,000	1.00%	1.33%	24/08/2021	16/12/2024	40
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	3,000,000	3,000,000	1.50%	1.33%	24/08/2021	15/12/2026	64
BoQ	BBB+	1,728,190	1,758,219	2.10%	0.78%	27/10/2021	27/10/2026	60
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.50%	0.88%	6/08/2021	15/12/2026	64
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.50%	0.44%	14/07/2021	15/12/2026	65
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.30%	0.88%	29/04/2021	15/06/2026	61
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.00%	0.88%	30/11/2020	15/12/2025	60
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.00%	0.44%	20/11/2020	15/12/2025	61
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.00%	0.88%	21/10/2020	15/12/2025	62
Total Fixed Rate Bonds		18,405,400	18,446,051	1.30%	8.16%
Managed Funds
NSW Tcorp	NR	1,893,336	1,951,560	3.08%	0.86%	17/03/2014	1/12/2028	176
Total Managed Funds		1,893,336	1,951,560	3.08%	0.86%
TOTAL CASH ASSETS, CASH EQUIVALENTS & INVESTMENTS		233,878,545	226,035,568		100.00%
LESS: RIVERINA REGIONAL LIBRARY (RRL) CASH AT BANK		2,508,164	2,503,802
TOTAL WWCC CASH ASSETS, CASH EQUIVALENTS & INVESTMENTS		231,370,381	223,531,766

 

Council’s investment portfolio is dominated by Term Deposits, equating to approximately 54% of the portfolio across a broad range of counterparties. Cash equates to 16%, with Floating Rate Notes (FRNs) around 21%, fixed rate bonds around 8% and growth funds around 1% of the portfolio.

 

 

Council’s investment portfolio is well diversified in complying assets across the entire credit spectrum. It is also well diversified from a rating perspective. Credit quality is diversified and is predominately invested amongst the investment grade Authorised Deposit-Taking Institutions (ADIs) (being BBB- or higher), with a smaller allocation to unrated ADIs.

 

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

 

Investment Portfolio Balance

 

Council’s investment portfolio balance decreased over the past month, down from $231.37M to $223.53M. This decrease is reflective of a number of larger contract payments being made during the month of December.

 

 

Monthly Investment Movements

 

Redemptions/Sales – Council redeemed the following investment securities during December 2023:

 

 

New Investments – Council purchased the following investment securities during December 2023:

 

Rollovers – Council did not roll over any investment securities during December 2023.

 

Monthly Investment Performance

 

Interest/growth/capital gains/(losses) for the month totalled $844,175, which compares favourably with the budget for the period of $362,832 - outperforming budget for the month by $481,343.

 

Council’s outperformance to budget for December is mainly due to better than budgeted returns on Councils investment portfolio as well as a higher than anticipated investment portfolio balance. This is a result of the ongoing movements in the cash rate made by the Reserve Bank of Australia, with the latest increase in early November 2023 bringing the cash rate to 4.35% from a record low of 0.10% in April 2022.

 

Council experienced a positive return on its NSW T-Corp Managed Fund for the month of December, with the fund returning +3.08% (or +$58,224) as domestic (+7.26%) and international (+4.70%) shares continued to rally strongly this month. Council also experienced a positive increase in the principal value of its Fixed rate bonds, increasing by +1.52% (or $36,561) for the month, as valuations rose.

 

 

In comparison to the AusBond Bank Bill Index* of 4.43% (annualised), Council’s investment portfolio returned 4.08% (annualised) for the month of December. This underperformance against the benchmark for the month is mainly due to lower returns on fixed deposits and bonds due to a proportion of these being locked in prior to the unexpected RBA rate hikes, as well as aggressive increases in the AusBond Bank Bill index due to the current interest rate environment. On Cash and At‑Call accounts returned 4.35% (annualised) for the month. These funds are utilised for daily cash flow management and need to be available to meet operating and contractual payments as they fall due.

 

Over the past year, Council’s investment portfolio has returned 3.50%, marginally underperforming the AusBond Bank Bill index by -0.39%. Councils investment portfolio has continued to outperform the AusBond Bank Bill Index* over the longer-term time period, returning 2.27% per annum over the past 3 years – outperforming the benchmark by 0.56% 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: We have strong leadership

Outcome: We are accountable and transparent

 

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 2023/24 to 2032/33