Minute by the Lord Mayor

To Council:

The City of Sydney strongly supports busking and we continue to be one of the most permissive city centres in Australia for busking. Buskers are ambassadors for the cultural life of the city and values we celebrate: diversity, respect and inclusion.

On 25 August 2025, Council unanimously adopted the Busking and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Practice Local Approvals Policy (‘the Policy’) and noted the amended Sydney Busking Code (‘the Code’), a guidance document accompanying the Policy.

These documents guide busking activity in our area and outline the rules for using the most popular sites, which we call Special Busking Sites. The Code seeks to make it easy for buskers to contribute to our city's vibrancy while ensuring fair access to limited space and avoiding artists overlapping each other, as well safety and amenity for others in the city centre including local businesses and residents.

Updates to the Policy and Code were placed on public exhibition for community feedback for a period of 42 days, between 24 June and 5 August 2025. All registered buskers who provided the City with an email address were notified about the public exhibition and encouraged to leave feedback on the proposed changes. Unfortunately, communication with the busking community was not as clear as it should have been, which understandably led to confusion and frustration. Just 4 buskers provided feedback on the Policy and Code.

The City’s Policy “aims to support and promote busking culture in Sydney, in balance with the expectations and needs of all users of public space”. It is therefore crucial that the details of the Policy and Code are directed towards achieving this aim.

I have asked the Chief Executive Officer to urgently review the Policy and Busking Code. This includes investigating increasing the number of safe George Street busking sites for all busking permit holders and enabling low impact buskers to perform for longer than one hour at suitable George Street locations.

This review should fully consult Sydney’s busking community, including through social media and face-to-face meetings and provide opportunities for buskers to suggest new busking sites and changed arrangements. Where proposals for busking sites may not be possible for safety or amenity reasons, these should be fully explained to the busking community. The review should also consult Transdev - who operate the light rail on George Street - on the safety implication of any proposed changes.

Following the review, the Chief Executive Officer should report any proposed changes to Council for approval to re-exhibit the Policy and the Code, ensuring clear communication and consultation with all interested persons and opportunities for feedback.

This process should be carried out with the aim of increasing busking opportunities as soon as possible in 2026.

the Rt HOn CLOVER MOORE AO

Lord Mayor of Sydney

Moved by the Chair (the Lord Mayor) –

It is resolved that:

(A)      Council note the recently adopted Policy and Code impose significant new restrictions on busking, including:

(i)         a reduction from 2 pitches to one pitch in Pitt Street Mall for both low and high impact acts;

(ii)        the classification of any act using amplification as high impact, reducing performance time to a maximum of one hour;

(iii)      limiting busking to just 6 locations along George Street, prohibiting busking in many popular and long-standing pitches; and

(iv)      reducing performance time for low impact acts on George Street to a maximum of one hour; and

(B)      the Chief Executive Officer be requested to:

(i)         undertake an urgent review of the Busking and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Practice Local Approvals Policy and the Sydney Busking Code as proposed in the subject Minute; and

(ii)        following the review, bring a report to Council as soon as possible seeking approval to re-exhibit the Busking and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Practice Local Approvals Policy and the Sydney Busking Code, together with a consultation strategy to ensure the busking community and other stakeholders are fully informed about the proposed changes and further opportunities to provide feedback.

The Minute, as varied by consent, was carried unanimously.

S051491

 

Moved by Councillor Weldon, seconded by Councillor Thompson –

It is resolved that:

(A)        Council note:

(i)           the City of Sydney is fortunate to have a high calibre of professional buskers performing on our streets on our regular basis;

(ii)         busking is a vital component of the city's cultural life, providing accessible and diverse entertainment that brings vibrancy and excitement to our streets and promotes the activation of key precincts;

(iii)        the work of street performers is challenging. They are too often underappreciated, prone to harassment and must contend with other street activities like street preachers and protestors;

(iv)        Pitt Street Mall and parts of George Street are among the premier locations for street performance in Sydney, with a high volume of pedestrians and visitors achieving significant audience engagement. Major events like Vivid also present a great opportunity for buskers; and

(v)         the City of Sydney’s previous busking policy maintained strong support because it effectively balanced issues of accessibility, safety, amenity and sound management, fostering a cooperative environment among performers and promoting sustained cultural activity;

(B)        that, in addition to urgently reviewing the newly adopted busking policy, the Chief Executive Officer be requested to investigate and provide advice to Council on:

(i)           actions the City can implement to foster a safer environment for buskers and prevent harassment, including through more proactive engagement and outreach from City Rangers and other relevant staff; and

(ii)         allowing and promoting additional designated busking locations within City of Sydney event and pedestrian management areas during Vivid and other major events; and

(C)        the Lord Mayor be requested to write to relevant NSW Government authorities (including Place Management NSW, Transport for NSW, Destination NSW and Venues NSW) asking them to create more opportunities for busking on land they manage, including busking in and around new Metro stations and during Vivid and other major events.

Carried unanimously.

X113759

Moved by Deputy Lord Mayor Councillor Miller, seconded by Councillor Worling –

It is resolved that:

(A)      Council note:

(i)         outdoor dining supports our businesses and creates jobs, adds vibrancy to our streets, and provides more interesting destinations that attract residents, workers, and visitors;

(ii)        initially a measure to help hospitality venues recover from the pandemic, outdoor dining has become an essential part of the City’s culture and street life;

(iii)      since 2020, the City of Sydney has waived outdoor dining fees, and this fee waiver was made permanent through a Lord Mayoral Minute in March 2025;

(iv)      we have approved nearly 1,000 applications and created around 13,000sqm of new space on roads and footpaths, supporting over 800 businesses. The total value of support we will have given businesses by waiving footpath and on-street outdoor dining fees since November 2020 is around $20 million;

(v)       almost all businesses with outdoor dining have told us it is beneficial, or crucial, to their business - more than half have had an increase in turnover of around 20%. Many have employed new staff or increased staff hours – an estimated 200 jobs have been created from our free outdoor dining;

(vi)      during Covid, the NSW Government introduced a requirement that patrons be sitting while eating or drinking;

(vii)     in 2022, the City removed that requirement from our regulations, allowing patrons to stand if venues provide high tables or shelves, which were included to assist the management of outdoor dining areas by providing a space for glasses or plates to be placed;

(viii)    in 2024, the NSW Government followed suit, removing the legislative requirement for venues to provide tables;

(ix)      while some venues’ approval predates the changes, the City does not enforce any sitting-down - table or not; and

(x)       the City is currently revising its Outdoor Dining Guidelines, which are scheduled for Council consideration in December 2025; and

(B)      the Chief Executive Officer be requested to:

(i)         remove requirements in the Outdoor Dining Guidelines to stand at a table or shelf in outdoor dining areas following the NSW Government’s changes; and

(ii)        clearly and effectively communicate the current situation, the application process, and all changes to the Outdoor Dining Guidelines to businesses and the sector.

Carried unanimously.

X113761

Moved by Councillor Maxwell, seconded by Councillor Thompson –

It is resolved that:

(A)        Council note:

(i)           on 2 November 2025, a rally organised by the National Socialist Network, operating under the name “White Australia”, took place outside the NSW Parliament on Macquarie Street, displaying antisemitic messages and Nazi symbolism;

(ii)         the rally was authorised under a Form 1 Public Assembly Notice that was not opposed by NSW Police. Senior leaders, including the Premier and Police Commissioner, have since confirmed they were unaware of the event prior to its occurrence;

(iii)        in response, the NSW Government and NSW Police have each announced internal reviews into how the rally was approved and how existing hate-speech and vilification laws were applied;

(iv)        Jewish community organisations and civil-society groups have called for stronger action to prevent extremist and antisemitic demonstrations from using public democratic institutions as stages for hate;

(v)         multiple parliamentarians and community leaders have raised concern at what has been described as a “double standard” in policing, and have urged legislative and procedural reform to ensure that hate-based gatherings cannot be authorised under current protest-law settings;

(vi)        the City of Sydney has repeatedly affirmed its support for the right to peaceful protest as a cornerstone of democracy, most recently through its Democratic Right to Protest resolution of 25 November 2024, and has equally condemned any expression of racism, antisemitism, or hate speech in civic spaces; and

(vii)      Sydney’s strength lies in its diversity and its commitment to tolerance, inclusion and mutual respect, and it is incumbent upon all levels of government to safeguard those values in the face of extremist provocation;

(B)        Council unequivocally condemn the neo-Nazi rally held outside NSW Parliament, the hateful ideology it represents, and the antisemitic intimidation directed at Sydney’s Jewish community and other groups;

(C)        Council add its voice to calls from community, faith and political leaders for:

(i)           a full and transparent review into how the rally was approved under the Form 1 Public Assembly Notice process;

(ii)         consideration of legislative reform to ensure hate-based or extremist organisations cannot obtain authorisation for public assemblies that promote racial or religious vilification without further restricting the right to democratic, peaceful protest; and

(iii)        clearer operational protocols to guarantee that the Premier, relevant Ministers, and affected local authorities are notified in advance of any protest by organisations associated with extremist or violent ideology;

(D)        the Lord Mayor be requested to write to the NSW Premier, the Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, the Minister for Multiculturalism, and the Attorney General expressing the City of Sydney’s condemnation of the rally and its support for these calls for reform, transparency and stronger safeguards against hate-based demonstrations in civic spaces; and

(E)        Council reaffirm its commitment to ensuring that public spaces under the City’s control remain safe, inclusive and open for peaceful democratic expression, and will not be used to promote hatred or intimidation of any community.

The motion, as varied by consent, was carried unanimously.

X113762

Minute by the Lord Mayor

To Council:

After years of campaigning for the return of this precious parkland to the community, I strongly support the NSW Government’s decision to transform 20-hectares of Moore Park Golf course to publicly accessible parkland, which will achieve the highest and best use of this public land.

Moore Park neighbours Green Square to the west, one of the densest residential areas in Australia. By 2040, up to 80,000 more people will be living within 2km of Moore Park in Zetland, Redfern and Waterloo. Expanding the public park at Moore Park South is a welcome response to the City’s growing population and needs of our community.

NSW Government consultation

Greater Sydney Parklands, which is responsible for Moore Park, completed consultation on the future of Moore Park South last year on behalf of the NSW Government. The ‘What We Heard’ Report outlined what people want the new park to look like and be used for. It highlighted existing access barriers to the park and other issues that need to be examined such as the need for certainty around ongoing funding for the new open space, which I agree is important. 

In response to that feedback, on 28 October 2025, the NSW Government released a draft Moore Park South Establishment Plan (‘the Plan’) showing how it intends to transform 20ha of Moore Park Golf Course into new parkland alongside a 9-hole golf course, expanded driving range and 18-short form (mini) golf course.

Now, the NSW Government is seeking further community and stakeholder feedback on the Plan for Moore Park South until Monday, 24 November 2025, to inform planning and shape the future of new park. On 3 November 2025, Council was briefed on the Plan by Greater Sydney Parklands and City of Sydney staff attended a workshop on 12 November 2025.

City of Sydney submission

The City’s submission to the consultation, which is attached to the subject Minute, supports the NSW Government’s Plan for Moore Park South, which aligns with my advocacy for more passive recreation space, the City’s strategic directions and responds to increasing population growth and density in surrounding areas.

We support the location of the new park on the western side of the current golf course, north of Dacey Avenue, and agree with a staged masterplan approach that allows the park to evolve in response to community feedback and recreation trends.

Early activation should prioritise removing as much of the existing fencing as possible, establishing the pathway network with lighting, and creating a perimeter loop to connect with Centennial Park to encourage walking, running and cycling while improving safety and accessibility.

A large playground, community sports field, pump track (used by people on bikes, skateboards, scooters, and rollerblades) and multipurpose courts are all supported as inclusive facilities that will attract a wide demographic. While amenities such as BBQs, picnic areas, toilets, water bubblers and shelters are essential for comfort, social interaction and longer visits.

The City welcomes plans for increased canopy cover, ecological zones and enhanced habitat, which will strengthen the park’s landscape character and climate resilience.

Improved access and connections from surrounding neighbourhoods to the new park are critical. Currently, there are up to 8 lanes of traffic across South Dowling Street and the Eastern Distributor that separate the large residential communities to the west and Moore Park. 

A new active transport bridge is needed near the south-east corner of Moore Park as well as other options for safe connections from Green Square via Dacey Avenue and South Dowling Street. An additional bridge would provide access for dense areas of Waterloo and Zetland. Existing bridges link the dense neighbourhoods of Surry Hills and Redfern to Moore Park. A new regional bike route along Dacey Avenue would also make it easier and safer for more people to walk, ride and enjoy the park.

Active transport should be prioritised over private vehicle access, which is why I don’t support adding more car parking, especially with the new 1,500-space Venues NSW car park currently under construction nearby. If parking must be provided, it should focus on essential access only for people with disabilities or families with prams so the majority of the site can be parkland for everyone to enjoy.

The reconfigured 9-hole course, supported by safe buffers to surrounding parkland, provides a practical way to manage shared use of the site. The addition of mini golf and an expanded driving range supports more casual and family-friendly participation and increases income for Greater Sydney Parklands.

I welcome the NSW Government's $50 million commitment to establish the 20-hectare park and reconfigured golf course at Moore Park South over the next 3 years, after the current operating agreement expires in mid-2026. However, long-term funding is also essential to ensure Greater Sydney Parklands can respond to community feedback, maintain the park over time, and fully realise its potential.

Moore Park South is a major opportunity to create significant new parkland for Sydney’s growing population. The City of Sydney stands ready to work with Greater Sydney Parklands to ensure its timely activation and long-term success in meeting community needs.

the Rt HOn CLOVER MOORE AO

Lord Mayor of Sydney

Moved by the Chair (the Lord Mayor), seconded by Councillor Maxwell –

It is resolved that:

(A)      Council note:

(i)         on 28 October 2025, the NSW Government released a draft Moore Park South Establishment Plan showing how it intends to transform 20-hectares of Moore Park Golf Course into new parkland alongside a 9-hole golf course, expanded driving range and 18-short form (mini) golf course;

(ii)        the NSW Government has committed $50 million to establish the 20-hectare park and reconfigured golf course at Moore Park South over the next 3 years, after the current operating agreement expires in mid-2026;

(iii)      the Establishment Plan is currently on public exhibition until 24 November 2025, to inform planning and shape the future of new park; and

(iv)      the City of Sydney website provides information about how people can have their say and make a submission to Greater Sydney Parklands about the Moore Park South Establishment Plan;

(B)      Council endorse the City of Sydney's submission on the draft Moore Park South Establishment Plan as shown at Attachment a to the subject Minute, which notes the many positive aspects of Greater Sydney Parklands' Plan as well as matters we want them to reconsider and improve;

(C)      the Chief Executive Officer be requested to lodge the Council-endorsed submission with the Greater Sydney Parklands by the above deadline; and

(D)      the Lord Mayor be requested to write to the NSW Premier and the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces with a copy of the subject Minute and the City's submission and offering for the City of Sydney to work with Greater Sydney Parklands to ensure Moore Park South is appropriately activated and well used by the community, after the current operating agreement expires in mid-2026.

The Minute was carried on the following show of hands –

Ayes (8)          The Chair (the Lord Mayor), Councillors Arkins, Ellsmore, Kok, Maxwell, Miller, Thompson and Worling

Noes (2)          Councillors Gannon and Weldon.

Minute carried.

S051491

Minute by the Lord Mayor

To Council:

In recent weeks there have been several events focussed on continuing action to maintain, support and advance Sydney’s and New South Wales’ culture, creativity and nightlife. People participating in these gatherings have overwhelmingly recognised the inter-relationship of arts, culture and nightlife and their crucial contribution to tourism and the broader economy.

City of Sydney Councillors and staff attended each of these events:

·             The launch of the NSW Productivity and Equality Commission’s report, Review of regulatory barriers impeding a vibrant 24-hour economy on 9 September 2025, which was subject of an earlier Lord Mayoral Minute.

·             The Art of Tax Reform Summit, held at Sydney Opera House on 25 September 2025.

·             Arts, Culture and Sydney's Future, an event co-hosted by Business Sydney and Sydney Festival on 20 October, 2025 which explored the role of arts and culture in Sydney’s economic growth, global brand and liveability.

·             The third annual NEON Forum, the Flagship event of the Office NSW 24-Hour Economy Commissioner. Held over 2 days (26 and 27 October 2025), the Forum brought together local and international placemaking and night-time economy experts, venue operators, arts organisations, local government representatives and others with an interest in supporting and building our nightlife. The first NSW Night Worker Action Plan 2025- 2028 was also launched at the Forum.

These gatherings were not mere talkfests. They each provided new ideas for action by all levels of Government working in partnership with the cultural and creative community and our vibrant nightlife sector.

Art of Tax Reform Summit

This Summit was informed by over 300 submissions from artists and creative workers, arts and cultural organisations, peak bodies and tax professionals resulting in over 80 ideas. These included proposals to increase philanthropic support for not-for-profit cultural organisations, investment in live theatre, music venues and other cultural activities, expansion of available affordable creative space, improving artists' incomes and sustaining and strengthening the cultural and creative sectors, many of which were further explored during the Summit. This was only the beginning of a process to improve the financing of culture and creativity in Australia.

In his speech to the Summit, Federal Arts Minister Tony Burke committed to considering tax reform in the next iteration of the national cultural policy due in 2028. Consultation for this policy will begin in early 2026. The Summit was also attended by Arts Ministers from NSW, Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia. At the end of the Summit, they issued a joint communique in which they committed to making co-ordinated submissions to the National Cultural Policy highlighting the ideas emerging from the Summit.

Potential to increase tax revenue

Achieving tax reform will not be easy. A paper summarising the submissions identified challenges in designing and implementing such reform. These included the potential adverse fiscal impact of new or expanded tax concessions. Yet this impact could be positive.

A submission by Live Performance argued that a 40% tax incentive, similar to those which exist for the film industry, could return $1.26 in tax revenue for every dollar in tax foregone. Another submission quoted modelling by Oxford Economics which found that tax incentives for music venues and live music activities could add $486 million to the national economy and support 4,151 new jobs, resulting in increased tax revenues.

Yet the potential tax for arts and cultural activities to generate revenues through a range of taxes are not normally considered in the budget process. Nor are the revenues are derived from the external economic impacts of arts, cultural and creative activities, such as taxes paid by hospitality, visitor accommodation, transport/travel, merchandise and other businesses.

It is time that Governments consider both sides of the ledger– both revenue foregone and the potential to generate additional revenue, along with budget savings resulting from the positive impacts of cultural activity on health, wellbeing, education and community life.

Retaining existing cultural infrastructure

Tax reform must not be a substitute for public funding. Indeed, new approaches to cultural funding are needed in addition to the current focus on grants to organisations, projects and programs. In an increasingly competitive environment, several organisations have lost their funding or received insufficient funding to support their activities. Others have had their funding reduced. This is already threatening the potential loss of medium to long term closure of vital cultural infrastructure which these organisations manage. These potential losses highlight the need for a new funding stream to sustain existing small to medium cultural infrastructure, especially spaces that offer affordable access for creatives.

New revenue measure needed

Public funding, augmented by tax measures to increase philanthropy and investment may not be sufficient to meet the needs of the arts and cultural sector. New revenue raising measures may be needed, with these revenues specifically directed towards the arts and culture.

The City’s submission to the Summit pointed out that many countries and cities impose a tourism tax to raise revenue for investment in the visitor experience – including arts and culture. These include New York, Athens, Barcelona and Edinburgh, Manchester and Liverpool in the United Kingdom. The UK Cultural Policy Unit has published a detailed paper proposing a national levy in the form of a small charge would be imposed on visitor accommodation room rates, particularly higher end visitor accommodation. The paper argues the resulting slight increase in price would not adversely impact overall tourism, but would be provide additional investment in tourist related cultural facilities and events. This would free up cultural funding which could be redirected to increase support for creatives and the small-to-medium sector. The potential increase in cultural tourism would also lead to increased tax revenues.

Greater transparency of existing cultural funding

Any discussion on cultural funding requires an understanding of existing public funding. At present this information is scattered through annual reports, Ministerial media releases, answers to questions on notice and questions asked in budget estimates committees and is often subject to a time lag. Other information, such as public funding of cultural festivals by Destination NSW, is “commercial in confidence”.

This information should be brought together and made easily accessible. The reasons for insisting that information is “commercial in confidence” should be fully explained.

NEON Forum

The NEON Forum brought together policymakers, industry leaders, venue operators, creatives and local and international experts. Over its 2 days, the Forum covered issues including city planning to support nightlife, ensuring safety at night and in workplaces, particularly for women and gender diverse people, actions to unlock creative spaces and the NSW Government’s vibrancy reforms. The 24-Hour Economy Commissioner, Mike Rodrigues also had conversations with the Sydney Metro CEO, Peter Regan, the NSW Productivity and Equality Commissioner, Peter Achterstraat and the new Police Commissioner, Mal Lanyon.

Mr Regan explained that the 4 obstacles to 24-hour public transport were cost, logistics, including integrating transport modes, maintenance and upgrades. He also acknowledged that New Year’s Eve demonstrated it is possible. Peter Achterstraat revealed that the Commission had examined the impacts of the Enmore Road Special Entertainment Precinct (SEP), revealing that property values had increased by $1300/sqm, with a third of this attributable to the introduction of the SEP. Mal Lanyon said he supported the NSW Government’s vibrancy reforms and was committed to their implementation. He subsequently met Jeff Garcia, a former New York police officer who headed the New York Mayor’s Office of Nightlife. In this role, Mr Garcia had introduced new policies and procedures to improve relationships between the police and venue owners. Mr Garcia will be providing details to NSW Police.

City staff attended many of these sessions and will draw on the information they gained to build on our own work to support Sydney’s nightlife.

NSW Night Worker Action Plan 2025-2028

The Forum also saw the launch of the NSW Night Worker Action Plan 2025-2028, prepared by the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner’s Office (the Office). This workforce comprises 1.27 million people working between 6pm and 6am across NSW, almost 29% of the total workforce. There are 72,895 night workers within the Sydney CBD alone.

The Action Plan identifies 5 priorities to be addressed:

·             economic insecurity

·             physical and mental wellbeing

·             access to essential services, childcare, transport and amenities

·             safety and security (physical and sexual violence)

·             recognition of and advocacy related to night work

The Plan contains 25 actions to address these priorities, including developing resources to support night workers, making public space safe at night and undertaking research to better understand the needs of the night workforce. Many of these actions complement work the City is already undertaking. The City already participates in the Office’s working groups which contributed to the Plan. 

For example, one action requires exploring opportunities to establish "gig worker hubs". These are dedicated spaces where workers such as food delivery riders and ride share drivers can rest, charge devices, access basic amenities and connect with multicultural worker networks. Gig workers are amongst the lowest paid and have the least economic security. Many of them also work within the City of Sydney and neighbouring local government areas.

The City is able to advise on areas with the greatest need for a gig worker hub as well as facilitate engagement with food delivery companies and riders.

The Plan's transport-related actions are less ambitious. It proposes "exploring utilisation of existing infrastructure and potential public-private partnerships to expand car park access" and "Investigate tailored transport solutions that can fill service gaps where fixed-route transport is limited". The Government should go much further and implement the Productivity and Equality Commission's recommendations to improve frequency of and access to public transport at night, as well as trialling later public transport services especially on weekends and in high-activity areas, as endorsed by Council on 22 September 2025.

Notwithstanding this, Council should welcome the NSW Night Worker Action Plan and play a role in implementing it.

the Rt HOn CLOVER MOORE AO

Lord Mayor of Sydney

Moved by the Chair (the Lord Mayor) –

It is resolved that:

(A)        Council commend the NSW Government for hosting the Art of Tax Reform Summit on 25 September 2025, attended by The Commonwealth, NSW, Victorian, South Australian and Western Australian Arts Ministers, the Lord Mayor, the City of Sydney Chief Executive Officer, relevant government officials, tax experts, cultural organisation representatives and arts practitioners, noting that this Summit is the beginning of a process to improve the financing of culture and creativity in Australia;

(B)        Council commend the Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner for hosting the third annual NEON Forum;

(C)        Council welcome the NSW Night Worker Action Plan 2025-2028, notwithstanding its less than ambitious actions relating to late night transport;

(D)        the Lord Mayor be requested to write to the Prime Minister, the NSW Premier and relevant Commonwealth and NSW Ministers requesting they each take action on the matters which fall within their portfolios as set out in the subject Minute; and

(E)        the Chief Executive Officer be requested to:

(i)           work with all interested parties to ensure that the optimism and momentum for action on cultural financing arising from the Art of Tax Reform Summit is maintained;

(ii)         contribute to future consultation processes including advocating on the matters raised in the subject Minute, such as the Commonwealth Government's forthcoming consultation for the next iteration of its Cultural Policy and updating Council via the CEO Update with draft submissions for Councillor feedback prior to finalisation;

(iii)        investigate the extent to which the City is able to assist in implementing the NSW Night Worker Action Plan 2025-2028 actions, including continuing to work with the Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner, and engaging with the Migrant Workers Hub, Study NSW and Transport for NSW to explore establishing a gig worker hub within or close to the Sydney CBD; and

(iv)        keep Council updated on action on all of these matters via the CEO Update.

Carried unanimously.

S051491

 

Minute by the Lord Mayor

To Council:

Sydney is facing a housing rental affordability crisis, like many cities around the world. Renters account for more than half of all households in the City of Sydney, and there are more than 20,000 households paying more than 30% of their income on housing costs, placing them in housing stress.

Renters in housing stress and boarding house tenants have very low levels of security of tenure. Landlords can increase rents, or redevelop properties, causing renters to have to find new homes. This is a particular risk in the inner city, where land values are so high.

The 2025 Hunger Report by Foodbank makes the bleak connection between housing stress and food insecurity. The report shows that food insecurity, particularly for renters is high. “For households experiencing food insecurity, keeping a roof over their heads has to come first.”

Cost of living pressures and the housing affordability crisis are contributing to more people sleeping rough. More than half those sleeping rough in our area don’t meet social housing eligibility criteria because they don’t have residency status, or they have a complexity of needs, failed tenancies or mental health issues.

I commend the NSW Government for making housing a priority, but provision of housing cannot be at any cost. It must be liveable, good quality, affordable to rent and run and residents must be supported.

In 2024, Council supported my Lord Mayoral Minute requesting, among other things, that I host a roundtable about protecting and increasing safe and secure affordable rental housing and that the Chief Executive Officer investigates increasing the levy on development that results in the loss of existing low-cost rental accommodation.

Secure Housing for Renters Roundtable

On 28 October 2025, we hosted the Secure Housing for Renters Roundtable about the housing rental affordability crisis. There was strong support for everyone to do more, and ideas were explored on how to protect and increase secure and affordable rental housing.

Over 40 representatives from housing providers, community and peak organisations, NSW Government agencies, renters, and members of the City’s Housing for All Advisory Panel participated. Their knowledge and experience of the housing and rental sector, housing stock and residents was an essential part of the roundtable discussion, and their involvement should continue as governments implement housing and rental reforms.

I particularly acknowledge the following expert speakers who presented their work.

Low-rental housing and boarding houses

The City of Sydney presented independent research that we commissioned on levy options to address the loss of low-rental housing.

Consent authorities are obligated to assess development applications for boarding house conversions under the outdated NSW State Environmental Planning Policy (Housing) 2021 (Housing SEPP) and the Guidelines for Retention of Existing Affordable Rental Housing 2009 (Guidelines). However, the Guidelines contain outdated viability benchmarks and encourage inflated valuations. This means the Housing SEPP has generally failed to preserve boarding houses or generate monetary contributions to compensate for their loss. 

The research makes key recommendations for the NSW Government to undertake a holistic review of the Housing SEPP and Guidelines and reconsider the viability test and levy formula.

It was acknowledged that communal living, including boarding houses, cooperatives and other co-living accommodation provide a vital form of diverse housing. There was general agreement that boarding houses should be protected and maintained and that affordable new generation boarding houses should be promoted.

Securing the rights of renters and boarding house residents

The NSW Rental Commissioner, Trina Jones, detailed the significant and long-awaited rental reforms the NSW Government has implemented. She acknowledged that more needed to be done to improve rental conditions and committed to working in partnership with other levels of government, to achieve outcomes particularly around evictions, building standards, energy efficiency and repairs and maintenance. 

The NSW Rental Commissioner also acknowledged the delayed implementation of the recommendations of the 2020 statutory review of the Boarding Houses Act 2012, which are aimed at strengthening the rights of residents of shared accommodation. Given the review was 5 years ago, the Government must identify what further reforms are needed to protect boarding houses, and to increase protections and support for low-income boarding house residents at risk of eviction. I am pleased the NSW Rental Commissioner committed to ensuring those recommendations are fit for purpose.

Unfortunately, the organisations and renters at the roundtable highlighted that despite rental reforms, unfair evictions, rental increases and repairs and maintenance remain key issues for renters. There was agreement that the conditions for long-term renters has to be improved.

Affordable Housing

In December 2024, the NSW Government commenced changes to the Housing SEPP including a new State Significant Development pathway for development worth more than $75 million if it includes 10 to 15% Affordable Housing. This development is eligible for 20 to 30% height and floor space bonuses and the Affordable Housing only needs to be provided for 15 years and can be rented at a discount to market rent. Shelter NSW presented their research evaluating the value of the NSW Government’s “affordable housing” incentives to the public and to the developer.

The research found that the scheme delivers significant windfalls to developers and limited affordability benefits to households, particularly in high value areas like the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney.

It found that affordability outcomes are weak. Even “discounted” rents in high value areas are well above what low- and moderate-income households can afford. This is evidence that not all affordable housing is equal, and that the definition of genuine Affordable Housing must be in line with the City’s Affordable Housing Program that is housing that is delivered ‘in perpetuity’, managed or owned by a registered not-for-profit Community Housing Provider, and rent-capped according to household income.

Importantly, the research recommended cash contributions tied to local rental markets and longer affordability periods to improve affordability outcomes.

There was clear agreement that market housing alone would not solve the housing affordability crisis; we need more genuine Affordable Housing aligned with a single definition.

Supported Housing

In addition to the bricks and mortar, investment is needed to respond to the underlying causes of homelessness, such as mental health, alcohol and other drugs. Homelessness and support services are needed alongside housing, like the Common Ground project in Camperdown.

The Women’s Housing Company presented their research on the feasibility of the Common Ground model as well as their experience with women-only housing. The research found women experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness are often experiencing a range of complex issues and women with children are not easily catered for in the typical housing model. Women accounted for over 80% of people experiencing homelessness across the country, and in New South Wales, there is a particular need in the City of Sydney, which had the highest number of women experiencing homelessness.

The research showed that the Common Ground model is a cost-effective way to reduce chronic homelessness and improve tenant health and wellbeing.

The pathway out of homelessness for many people experiencing long-term homelessness is housing with high levels of onsite support, such as at Common Ground on Pyrmont Bridge Road in Camperdown. However, concerns were raised about a lack of continued operational funding.

Long-term funding must be a consideration to support residents on an ongoing basis.

Next steps

Following the roundtable, 13 organisations joined the City to send a joint letter to the NSW Premier (attached) - we collectively called on the NSW Government to:

·                urgently review the Housing SEPP and Guidelines for Retention of Existing Affordable Rental Housing to protect existing low-rental housing and other diverse housing such as boarding houses, particularly the viability yield and test and contribution payable

·                improve the security of tenure for renters and boarding house residents and their rights to improved amenity and living standards as a result of changes to the Boarding Houses Act

·                improve autonomy, rights and protections for renters, particularly around unfair evictions, rent increases and repairs and maintenance

·                create the conditions for a fair and secure long-term rental market 

·                commit to consulting meaningfully on future rental reforms

·                implement existing local affordable rental housing schemes in any State Significant Developments

·                enable a pathway for time-limited affordable housing to be delivered in perpetuity

·                amend the NSW Affordable Housing Ministerial Guidelines definitions to mandate the use of income-based rent for Affordable Housing in a standard definition

·                fund more supported housing, like the Common Ground model and consider a women’s only project.

the Rt HOn CLOVER MOORE AO

Lord Mayor of Sydney

Moved by the Chair (the Lord Mayor)  –

It is resolved that:

(A)      Council note that:

(i)         despite significant rental reforms and investment in housing, cost of living pressures and the housing affordability crisis are resulting in more people living with housing stress, without security of tenure, and at risk of homelessness;

(ii)        we held the Secure Housing for Renters Roundtable on 28 October 2025 and were joined by over 40 representatives from housing providers, community and peak organisations, NSW Government agencies, renters, and members of the City's Housing for All Advisory Panel; and

(iii)      on 14 November 2025, 13 organisations joined the City to send a joint letter to the NSW Premier with calls to action following the roundtable;

(B)      the Chief Executive Officer be requested to investigate how the City of Sydney can support another Common Ground project in our area in consultation with other relevant stakeholders including other levels of government and the private sector; and

(C)      the Lord Mayor be requested to write to:

(i)         outgoing Community Housing Industry Association NSW Chief Executive Officer, Mark Degotardi, thanking him for his contribution to Affordable Housing and for his support of the City of Sydney's Affordable Housing Program; and

(ii)        the NSW Premier, Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading, Minister for Housing and Homelessness, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces and Minister for Women to:

(a)       provide a copy of this Lord Mayoral Minute, to note Council's decision;

(b)       provide a copy of the joint letter to reiterate our joint calls to the NSW Government; and

(c)       provide a copy of the research presented at the roundtable by the City of Sydney, Shelter NSW and the Women's Housing Company.

Carried unanimously.

S051491

Minute by the Lord Mayor

To Council:

Climate action is one of the City of Sydney’s top priorities. Cities produce around 70% of global emissions, so what we do matters. Without urgent and coordinated global action to cut emissions by 75% below 2005 levels in the next decade, we risk triggering uncontrolled climate change.

The City has committed to net zero by 2035 for the local area and we are drastically reducing our own energy and water use and will eliminate the use of gas in our operations by 2030. Our 2025 annual Green Report shows that since 2006, we have reduced emissions in our own operations by 78%, at the same time as we have significantly expanded services to the community.

Greenhouse gas emissions for our local area have also decreased year after year. In June 2024 they were 45% below 2006 levels, while at the same time our population has increased by 44%, job numbers have grown by 40% and our economy has expanded by 78.5%. 

National Climate Risk assessment

Released in September 2025, the Australian Government's first National Climate Risk Assessment (‘the Assessment’) paints an alarming picture of escalating climate risks across the country - devastating droughts, catastrophic bushfires, and severe storms that we already experience are set to worsen.

Heat kills more people than all other natural disasters, and Sydney is set to experience hotter days, for longer periods. The Assessment shows that if temperatures rose by just 1.5 degrees, heat-related deaths in Sydney would double, and if it raised by 3 degrees, we would see deaths at almost 4.5 times the current rate. This is why we are working hard to increase canopy cover in our area, as it can reduce temperatures by up to 10 degrees.

Rising temperatures will make Australia a less attractive destination for tourists, with 14% fewer tourists expected across Australia by 2063. The risk assessment also found that if temperatures rise by 3 degrees, $770 billion could be wiped off property values nationally by 2090 due to climate change, including sea level rise and flooding. In our area, this could impact property prices, where people can live and critical infrastructure including roads, tunnels, substations and public transport.

Across the country, the number of properties exposed to climate impacts like fires and floods is increasing, meaning that entire areas and communities may be uninsurable or their insurance premiums will be extremely unaffordable for most households. Banks do not lend mortgages for uninsured properties. Without Government support such as relocation or underwriting, the supply of housing will be drastically reduced, pushing up housing prices.

Eastern coastal waters are expected to warm by 2.4 to 3.7 degrees. This will drive more intense storms, putting people and infrastructure under significant pressure, not to mention the environmental and ecological impacts.

People already experiencing disadvantage are most at risk from the impacts of climate change. People with existing health conditions such as mental ill-health, heart diseases and asthma are especially vulnerable. All of this will put increasing pressure on the state’s health system and on our own services and programs that support communities.

To help combat heat impacts, our community centres and libraries provide air-conditioned spaces for people to cool down. During heat events, staff open extra rooms, offer cold water and health tips, which is especially important for renters without air-conditioning. Our digital screens across the city centre display warnings and practical tips to help people stay safe and avoid heat-related illness. We partner with St. Vincent’s Hospital and the University of Sydney to set up mobile cooling tents in parks, providing a cool space with misters and fans, and an opportunity to consult with a health practitioner, and last summer the City piloted community workshops to help people plan for emergencies such as heatwaves and power outages.

We’re strengthening the city’s resilience to heat, drought, storms, floods and rising seas but cutting emissions remains the best defence. This report shows the Federal Government knows the scale of the challenge and the need for urgent action.

Australia’s 2035 emissions reduction targets

Australia’s legislated 2030 target to cut emissions by 43% is on track, with carbon emissions down 28% from 2005 levels by March 2025. To meet its obligations under the Paris Agreement, last month the Australian Government announced a 62 to 70% emissions reduction target below 2005 levels by 2035, as part of its commitment to meet net zero emissions by 2050.

While the City’s net zero by 2035 in our area target is more ambitious, the Australian Government’s new target supports our goals, and we welcome this commitment. It will drive national action and investment in renewable energy, building standards, electrification, transport, circular economy, embodied carbon and the repair and restoration of our natural ecosystems.

To meet the 2035 emissions target, Australia must act quickly and more than double the rate at which we are cutting emissions, which will require significant changes in technology, the economy, and how people live and work.

Bold action urgently needed

The Australian Government’s 2035 target is supported by a detailed Net Zero Plan and 6 sector-specific plans outlining how the Government will achieve its goals. The 6 sectors include electricity and energy, agriculture and land, the built environment, industry, resources, and transport. This is backed by Treasury modelling, showing the policies’ projected emissions reductions.

While the plans list high-level future directions, they are missing formal policy and funding commitments in key areas including electrification, active and public transport and climate equity. Treasury modelling also shows the Government’s assumptions rely too heavily on tree planting to capture carbon to meet net zero cut emissions. While we support greening for its cooling benefits and restoring nature, there simply isn’t enough land to plant the number of trees needed to capture the growing emissions from transport and new coal and gas projects.

Bold action should start with legislating Australia’s 2035 emissions reduction target, as the Labor Government did in 2022 with the 2030 target.

Resources

Shockingly, the resources sector plan does not commit to phasing out fossil fuel exports. The modelling assumes gas exports will decline, even though there are no concrete measures to limit new coal and gas mines. This unfairly places the burden on other parts of our economy, and people and our planet will continue to suffer.

The Government must be courageous and use its substantial majority to stop the influence of fossil fuel companies, end excessive subsidies and tax breaks, and stop misleading the public with greenwashing and climate misinformation.

The Australia Institute’s research shows that the Australian government shamefully provided $14.9 billion worth of spending and tax breaks in 2024/25 to assist fossil fuel producers and major users, and these will increase to $67 billion over the next 4 years. The level of subsidy is more than 14 times the current 4-year $4.75 billion Australian disaster response fund. Imagine how much real action on net zero and climate change adaptation we could achieve with $67 billion.

Energy

I welcome changes that will make Urban Renewable Energy Zones possible. By supporting local power generation and distribution using load shifting, solar and battery storage, Greater Sydney could meet up to 75% of its own energy needs. This shows the central role that cities can play in the transition to renewables, as previously reported by the Committee for Sydney.

From 1 January 2026, the City is banning indoor gas appliances in new residences, and from 1 January 2027 our All Electric Development Control Plan will require all new development, including offices, hotels, and serviced apartments buildings, to be fully electric. However, there is also a role for Federal and State Governments to ensure the transition away from gas is equitable and does not trap vulnerable households in the gas network ‘death spiral’ where fewer households share the fixed network costs as more households turn off gas, raising prices for those remaining, especially renters and low-income households.

Built environment

I welcome the commitments in the Built Environment sector plan to expand initiatives like NABERS, building energy disclosure and appliance standards. These changes will help to reduce emissions and improve climate resilience of buildings. 

While the Built Environment sector plan acknowledges existing commitments such as the home battery program and support for public EV charging infrastructure, more detailed policies and additional funding from the Australian Government is needed to tackle the complex and costly task of electrifying the large number of existing residential apartments. This often requires costly switchboard upgrades, rewiring, and space for larger heat pump systems, which many owners can’t afford. With tenants paying energy bills, landlords also have little incentive to electrify rentals.

Transport

The transport sector plan rightly prioritises reducing unnecessary travel and shifting to active and public transport, but it lacks supporting initiatives and funding. Our investment in a city for walking and cycling shows that when you create a safe, green and pleasant environment, people shift to walking and cycling. Walking is up 52% in our area since 2021, and bike trips have nearly tripled since 2010 with over 28km of new cycleways.

Involving cities and investing in local solutions

The sector plans fail to acknowledge the critical role of cities and local governments in reaching net zero and adapting to climate change. The Local Government Climate Review 2024 found that emissions targets of councils alone can meet 29% of Australia’s overall current nationally determined contribution by 2030. We are also often the first to respond when disaster hits, which is happening more frequently.

By signing onto the Coalition for High Ambition Multilevel Partnerships (CHAMP) for Climate Action during COP28, the Australian Government committed to enhance cooperation with state, territory and local governments in the planning, financing, implementation, and monitoring of climate strategies. As yet, the Australian Government has not directly engaged with local governments under this commitment.

This is a missed opportunity. If Councils and capital cities were more directly engaged in Federal and State Government policy, our networks and expertise could be harnessed to supercharge emissions reductions. More investment in local solutions, like the Community Energy Upgrades Fund could quickly and effectively maximise efforts to help Australia meet its emissions reduction targets.

the Rt HOn CLOVER MOORE AO

Lord Mayor of Sydney

Moved by the Chair (the Lord Mayor) –

It is resolved that:

(A)      Council note:

(i)         the City’s 2025 Annual Green Report shows that since 2006, the City of Sydney has cut emissions from its operations by 78% and, despite population, jobs, and economic growth, local greenhouse gas emissions have steadily fallen, reaching 45% below 2006 levels in June 2024;

(ii)        the Australian Government's first National Climate Risk Assessment paints an alarming picture of escalating climate risks across the country and that the devastating droughts, catastrophic bushfires, and severe storms we already experience are set to worsen; and

(iii)      the Australian Government has set a new target to reduce emissions by 62 to 70% below 2005 levels by 2035, as part of its commitment to meet net zero emissions by 2050;

(B)      the Lord Mayor be requested to write to the Prime Minister with a copy of this Lord Mayoral Minute, welcoming Australia's new 2035 emissions reduction target and calling on the Australian Government to:

(i)         legislate Australia’s 2035 emissions reduction target, and ensure that climate equity outcomes are genuine and central to all climate policies - especially for renters, low-income households and people living in apartment buildings;

(ii)        stop approving new coal and gas mines and phase out fossil fuels faster, fairly and forever;

(iii)      implement a 10-year ban on politicians working for fossil fuel companies, wind back fossil fuel subsidies, urgently fix royalties and tax avoidance loopholes by fossil gas companies to fund climate adaptation and mitigation, and introduce penalties and enforcement for climate misinformation and disinformation;

(iv)      develop a national electrification plan, including support for local energy generation and sharing, a ban on new gas connections and support to equitably phase out existing gas connections and networks; and

(v)       provide support for, and involve local governments in the design, implementation, communication, and governance of climate policies and programs, including active transport infrastructure, emergency responses to climate events, reducing waste emissions, and electrifying existing residential apartments;

(C)      Council further condemn the Federal Opposition for abandoning what had been a broadly bipartisan commitment to net zero, a move that risks undermining economic certainty for investment in the clean-energy transition, risks exposing communities to escalating climate harm, and risks damaging Australia’s credibility and standing on the global stage; and

(D)      the Lord Mayor be requested to also send this resolution to the Leader of the Opposition, the Leader of the Liberal Party, and the Leader of the National Party, urging them to reinstate a credible pathway to net zero.

The Minute, as varied by consent, was carried unanimously.

S051491

Moved by Councillor Kok, seconded by Councillor Gannon –

It is resolved that:

(A)      Council note:

(i)         the Domain Express Walkway opened in 1961 and is the largest moving public walkway in the southern hemisphere;

(ii)        the travelator style walkway runs underground for 200 metres between the Domain Carpark and Hyde Park;

(iii)      the walkway and associated lifts provide an important pedestrian link between the Domain Car Park and Hyde Park and is useful to car park users but also the general community, including Woolloomooloo residents;

(iv)      the walkway and both lifts alongside it have not been operational since 2019;

(v)       the ongoing closure has created significant access issues for older people, families with prams, people with disability or limited mobility and other who need help traversing the hill;

(vi)      the walkway is owned by the Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust and is managed by Wilson Parking until the current lease expires in 2033;

(vii)     in November 2024, the Lord Mayor wrote to the Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust, seeking repairs to the walkway;

(viii)    the Trust advised that this matter should be taken up with Wilson Parking, the leaseholder and operator of the Domain Car Park;

(ix)      the Trust also mentioned the reasons why repairs have been delayed:

(a)       more frequent breakdowns as the infrastructure ages;

(b)       costs are increasingly prohibitive; and

(c)       all components are difficult to source or replace;

(x)       in March 2025, the Lord Mayor wrote to Jeremy Dyson, General Manager Operations at Wilson Parking, about the repairs and removal of graffiti from the walkway wall, but no response has been received; and

(B)      the Lord Mayor be requested to write to the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully, seeking urgent repairs to the Domain Express Walkway and lifts, a confirmed timeline for their reopening and a commitment to prioritise the ongoing maintenance of these essential public facilities.

Carried unanimously.

X113763

Moved by Councillor Worling, seconded by Councillor Miller -

It is resolved that:

(A)      Council note:

(i)         the City of Sydney has seen 96% increase in share bike trips this year, which has contributed positively to sustainable transport and reduced emissions:

(a)       there are around 7,000 share bikes in our area at any one time currently, serving around 13,000 trips per day just within our council area;

(b)       between January and September this year, there were almost 2.5 million share bike trips in our area; and

(c)       the uncontrolled parking of share bikes in parks and green spaces has led to clutter, safety concerns for pedestrians and reduced amenity for park users;

(ii)        geofencing 'digitally demarcates' where share bike users can log-off their trip or where share bike power assistance cuts out at lower speeds. It is a powerful tool to help manage appropriate share bike parking and speeds; and

(iii)      some share bike operators have already used geofencing to establish ‘no parking’ in some parks, but this has been on an ad hoc basis and the absence of geofencing controls has resulted in some share bikes being left in inappropriate locations and ridden too fast in some parks;

(B)      Council further note that:

(i)         the Lord Mayor has been raising concerns and calling for the NSW Government to introduce share bike regulations since they first appeared on our streets in 2017; and

(ii)        Council has welcomed the introduction of the Road Transport and Other Legislation Amendment (Micromobility Vehicles and Smartcards) Bill 2025, but as the timeframe for the NSW Government to develop Regulation is unknown, the City needs to take steps to safeguard the amenity and safety of parks in the face of a rapid jump in share bikes use; and

(C)      the Chief Executive Officer be requested to:

(i)         identify relevant additional parks within the City:

(a)       where share bike parking should be restricted using geofencing;

(b)       that have shared paths where share bikes should be geofenced to require slower speeds; and

(c)       that require designated bike parking areas to provide for the more orderly parking of shared bikes;

(ii)        write to the 3 share bike companies that currently operate in the City (Lime, Ario and Hello Ride) to request that they geofence areas within their apps so that:

(a)       users cannot log off their share bike trip in parks specified by City staff, unless they have designated bike parking areas in them; and

(b)       power assistance of share bikes cuts out when the bike is going more than 10 km/h on shared paths in parks; and

(iii)      provide updates to Council through the CEO Update on the parks proposed for geofenced shared bike parking restrictions and ‘go slow’ zones, and the response from share bike companies to the City’s request.

Carried unanimously.

X113756

Moved by Councillor Arkins, seconded by Councillor Ellsmore –

It is resolved that:

(A)        Council note:

(i)           Aus Music T-Shirt Day is an annual event by the music industry’s charity, Support Act, that raises funds to support and promote Australian music, with the aim of keeping the music industry thriving, by supporting artists and music workers via their many programs;

(ii)         funds raised through Aus Music T-Shirt Day go towards supporting Support Act’s initiatives such as artist grants, music education programs, and grassroots music events. It also helps amplify the work of musicians and ensure that Australian music continues to be celebrated and heard on both the national and global stage;

(iii)        the Lord Mayor, Councillors and City staff participated in Aus Music T-Shirt Day wearing our favourite Aussie artists’ t-shirts on the steps of Town Hall prior to this Council meeting; and

(iv)        the City of Sydney has long been a supporter of live music, arts and cultural initiatives, including providing a donation of $84,000 to Support Act as part of the Covid relief package and a donation of $4,515 in value in kind in the form of Street Banner hire fee waiver in 2024/25;

(B)        the Chief Executive Officer be requested to investigate Council assisting Support Act Limited through a grant, or by providing a City of Sydney venue in-kind, to hold an event to support Aus Music T-Shirt Day’s goals of promoting Australian music and assisting local artists; and

(C)        the Lord Mayor be requested to write to Clive Miller, CEO of Support Act to express the City’s ongoing support for their work in fostering and promoting Australian music and supporting Australian artists and advising them of this.

Carried unanimously.

X113758

Moved by Councillor Arkins, seconded by Councillor Ellsmore –

It is resolved that:

(A)      Council note:

(i)         the NSW Government released the NSW Night Worker Action Plan 2025-2028, led by the Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner, to improve safety, wellbeing and recognition for the 1.27 million people working between 6pm and 6am across NSW;

(ii)        the Action Plan identifies 5 key priorities - economic insecurity, wellbeing, access to services, safety and recognition - and commits to piloting new initiatives including gig worker hubs with access to rest areas, charging facilities and toilets for delivery riders and other gig workers;

(iii)      the NSW Government has recognised that gig workers face particular challenges of low pay, economic insecurity and unsafe conditions;

(iv)      the McKell institute’s Tough Gig report states 76% of gig workers identify low pay as their biggest concern and nearly one in 4 reporting being involved in a road accident while working;

(v)       Sydney’s CBD and inner precincts host the highest concentration of night workers in NSW, including thousands of food delivery riders, rideshare drivers and other gig workers who lack safe and accessible facilities to rest, charge devices or access basic amenities; and

(vi)      the NSW Night Worker Action Plan proposes collaboration between councils, the Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner, Study NSW, Transport for NSW, the Migrant Worker Hub and industry to design pilot hubs in areas with high concentrations of night workers;

(B)      the Chief Executive Officer be requested to:

(i)         meet with the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner, the Migrant Workers Hub, Study NSW and Transport for NSW about a future gig worker hub within or close to the Sydney CBD;

(ii)        ensure any future design process includes consideration of the City’s policies, plans and priorities; and

(iii)      report back to Council via the CEO Update on the meetings and progress of a future gig worker hub and any other City actions from the NSW Night Worker Action Plan 2025-2028; and

(C)      the Lord Mayor be requested to write to the Minister for the Night-time Economy and the Migrant Workers Hub to express the City’s support for a gig worker hub in the City of Sydney and offering to work with NSW Government agencies and the Migrant Workers Hub during the planning for a future hub.

Carried unanimously.

X113758

Moved by Councillor Arkins, seconded by Councillor Weldon –

It is resolved that:

(A)      Council note:

(i)         the City of Sydney is progressing plans for the future Town Hall Square - a major new public space to be located between George and Pitt Streets, opposite Sydney Town Hall;

(ii)        the site sits within the traditional lands of the Gadigal of the Eora nation and offers an opportunity to recognise and celebrate Aboriginal culture and history at the heart of the city’s civic precinct;

(iii)      the City has a strong record of recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures through public art, design, and place naming, consistent with its Eora Journey, Reconciliation Action Plan, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Protocols;

(iv)      many City of Sydney policies and protocols emphasise the importance of embedding Aboriginal culture and heritage within Sydney’s built environment; and

(v)       the City’s Naming Policy outlines a clear process for naming that prioritises using Aboriginal language, especially for parks and open spaces, and requires meaningful engagement with the local Aboriginal community, including seeking advice from the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council and the City’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Panel; and

(B)      the Chief Executive Officer be requested to:

(i)         commence the process for exploring naming Town Hall Square using a local Aboriginal language word in line with the principles and guidance on Aboriginal place naming set out in the City’s Naming Policy, in consultation with the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council and the City’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Panel; and

(ii)        bring a report to Council outlining the proposed name and its justification. 

Carried unanimously.

X113758

Moved by Councillor Arkins, seconded by Councillor Miller –

It is resolved that:

(A)      Council note:

(i)         the City of Sydney’s Special Entertainment Precincts program supports live music and performance by streamlining regulation, extending trading hours, and reducing noise conflicts between venues and residents;

(ii)        that City staff are preparing the next round of consultation and sound studies for the City’s proposed Special Entertainment Precincts;

(iii)      The Chippo Hotel in Chippendale and The Rose Hotel in Chippendale are long-standing venues that host live performance, emerging artists, and community events, contributing to Sydney’s vibrant night-time economy and cultural identity; and

(iv)      both venues are not included in the City’s proposed Special Entertainment Precincts, yet sit within the Tech Media and Design Arc, under the City’s Cultural Strategy 2025-2035, Tech Central West in the Economic Development Strategy 2025-2035, and adjacent to proposed Special Entertainment Precincts on Regent Street and City Road; and

(B)      the Chief Executive Officer be requested to:

(i)         investigate extending or establishing a Special Entertainment Precinct that includes The Chippo Hotel and The Rose Hotel in Chippendale; and

(ii)        report back to Council via the CEO Update to advise whether these venues will be included prior to the next public exhibition of the City’s Special Entertainment Precincts.

Carried unanimously.

X113758

Moved by Councillor Arkins, seconded by the Chair (the Lord Mayor) –

It is resolved that:

(A)      Council note:

(i)         on 11 November 1975, Governor-General Sir John Kerr dismissed the Government of Labor Prime Minister Gough Whitlam, ending one of the most significant chapters in Australia’s democratic and political history;

(ii)        the Dismissal was a defining moment in the evolution of Australia’s constitutional system, sparking enduring debate about the powers of the Crown, the role of the Senate, and the independence of Australia’s democracy;

(iii)      the Whitlam Government’s legacy includes major social and economic reforms, including the establishment of Medibank (later Medicare), the introduction of free tertiary education, recognition of First Nations land rights, no-fault divorce, equal pay for women, and the creation of the Department of Urban and Regional Development - a forerunner to the planning frameworks and laws that continue to shape our city today;

(iv)      the Whitlam Government also made landmark investments in arts, culture, and local government, including direct funding to councils and arts programs, supporting the foundations of Australia’s creative and community infrastructure; and

(v)       fifty years on, the Dismissal remains a reminder of both the fragility and the resilience of our democratic institutions, and of the enduring impact of visionary reform on Australian civic life;

(B)      Council:

(i)         acknowledge the 50th anniversary of the Dismissal of the Whitlam Government on 11 November 1975 as a pivotal event in Australian democratic history;

(ii)        recognise the profound and lasting impact of the Whitlam Government’s reforms on Australian society, particularly in health, education, equality, culture, and urban development; and

(iii)      note that the City of Sydney’s cultural and civic landscape continues to reflect many of the values championed during the Whitlam era, including equity, participation, protecting our environment and investment in the arts and creative communities; and

(C)      the Lord Mayor be requested to write to:

(i)         the Whitlam Institute at Western Sydney University, Emeritus Professor Jenny Hocking, and the National Archives of Australia, acknowledging the 50th anniversary and expressing the City’s appreciation for their work in preserving and interpreting this important period of Australian history; and

(ii)        the National Library of Australia congratulating them on their exhibition 1975: Living in the Seventies, recognising the exhibition’s contribution to commemorating this important year in Australia’s political history.

Carried unanimously.

X113758

Moved by Councillor Maxwell, seconded by Councillor Thompson –

It is resolved that:

(A)        Council note:

(i)           that one of the reasons that the insourcing of large service contracts is constrained is the lack of suitable accommodation such as depots;

(ii)         independent advice obtained by City staff identified that acquiring or developing a new medium sized depot would take 3 to 5 years and cost $51 to $91 million, with those timeframes considered highly ambitious;

(iii)        the Bay Street depot cannot currently fill this gap, as half the site must remain operational during refurbishment until at least 2031;

(iv)        the cost of the current refurbishment project of Bay Street is currently estimated at $75 million, excluding land costs; and

(v)         Councillors have expressed interest in ensuring depot infrastructure planning does not hold back future insourcing opportunities, and that preparatory work now will provide options for Council in the years ahead; and

(B)        the Chief Executive Officer be requested to:

(i)           investigate the tangible steps required to secure an additional City of Sydney depot including potential partnerships or collaboration with neighbouring councils, and costings for land acquisition and construction, and options for raising these funds; and

(ii)         report back to Council via the CEO Update.

A show of hands on the varied motion resulted in an equality of voting as follows –

Ayes (5)          Councillor Arkins, Ellsmore, Maxwell, Thompson and Weldon

Noes (5)          The Chair (the Lord Mayor), Councillors Gannon, Kok, Miller and Worling.

Pursuant to the provisions of clause 10.3 of the Code of Meeting Practice, the motion was declared lost.

The motion, as varied by consent, was lost.

X113762

It is resolved that the Investment Report as at 31 October 2025 be received and noted.

Carried unanimously.

X020701

 

It is resolved that Council adopt the revised Investment Policy and Investment Strategy for the management and investment of Council’s funds, as shown in Attachments A and B to subject report.

Carried unanimously.

X020701

 

It is resolved that:

(A)      Council delegate to the Chief Executive Officer the function of accepting the recommended tender offer for the provision of Insurance Broking and Related Services for a term of 3 years with 2 options to extend, each for a period of 2 years;

(B)      authority be delegated to the Chief Executive Officer to finalise, execute and administer the contract relating to the tender; and

(C)      Council note that it will be informed of the successful supplier and total contract value via CEO Update.

Carried unanimously.

X125416.014

 

It is resolved that:

(A)        Council approve a 3 year lease for Soul Reign Pty Ltd., ABN 36 672 625 580, trading as The Goodways Project at the Banga Community Shed, 3B Joynton Avenue, Zetland from 1 February 2026 at 100% subsidy, with agreement for a further 2 year lease subject to satisfactory performance at a total cost of $240,342 (excl. GST) over the full 5-year period;

(B)        Council approve a 3+2 year licence for Season Arts Incorporated, ABN 49 796 837 399, in Tenancy 1 at the Joynton Avenue Creative Centre, 3A Joynton Avenue, Zetland from 1 February 2026 at 100% subsidy at a total cost of $200,085 (excl. GST) over the full 5-year period;

(C)        Council approve a 3+2 year licence for Artist Studio Collective, ABN 11 992 435 770, in Tenancy 2 at the Joynton Avenue Creative Centre, 3A Joynton Avenue, Zetland from 1 February 2026 at 100% subsidy at a total cost of $238,269 (excl. GST) over the full 5-year period;

(D)        Council approve a 3+2 year licence for Erin Kathleen Keys, ABN 54 764 767 254, trading as The Bench in Tenancy 3 at the Joynton Avenue Creative Centre, 3A Joynton Avenue, Zetland from 1 February 2026 at 100% subsidy at a total cost of $239,798 (excl. GST) over the full 5-year period;

(E)        Council approve a 3+2 year licence for Garuwa Creative PTY LTD, ABN 98 618 609 868, trading as WUNAN in Tenancy 4 at the Joynton Avenue Creative Centre, 3A Joynton Avenue, Zetland from 1 February 2026 at 100% subsidy at a total cost of $168,013 (excl. GST) over the full 5-year period;

(F)        Council approve a 3+2 year licence for Ashleigh Louise Garwood, ABN 80 851 278 800, trading as Artist Led Photographic Collective in Tenancy 5 at the Joynton Avenue Creative Centre, 3A Joynton Avenue, Zetland from 1 February 2026 at 100% subsidy at a total cost of $$177,176 (excl. GST) over the full 5-year period;   

(G)       Council note full details of applicants recommended for funding as per Attachment A to the subject report; Recommended for Funding - Accommodation Grants Program;

(H)        Council note the applicants who were shortlisted to the Eligibility List - Accommodation Grants Program as shown at Attachment B to the subject report;

(I)          Council note the applicants who were Not Recommended for Funding for the Accommodation Grants Program as shown at Attachment C to the subject report; and

(J)         authority be delegated to the Chief Executive Officer to negotiate, execute and administer agreements with:

(i)           Soul Reign Pty Ltd., ABN 36 672 625 580, at the Banga Community Shed, 3B Joynton Avenue, Zetland;

(ii)         Season Arts Incorporated, ABN 49 796 837 399, in Tenancy 1 at Joynton Avenue Creative Centre, 3A Joynton Avenue, Zetland;

(iii)        Artist Studio Collective, ABN 11 992 435 770, in Tenancy 2 at the Joynton Avenue Creative Centre, 3A Joynton Avenue, Zetland;

(iv)        Erin Kathleen Keys, ABN 54 764 767 254, trading as The Bench in Tenancy 3 at the Joynton Avenue Creative Centre, 3A Joynton Avenue, Zetland;

(v)         Garuwa Creative PTY LTD, ABN 98 618 609 868, trading as WUNAN in Tenancy 4 at the Joynton Avenue Creative Centre, 3A Joynton Avenue, Zetland; and

(vi)        Ashleigh Louise Garwood, ABN 80 851 278 800, trading as Artist Led Photographic Collective in Tenancy 5 at the Joynton Avenue Creative Centre, 3A Joynton Avenue, Zetland,

on terms consistent with this resolution and in accordance with the Grants and Sponsorship Policy.

Carried unanimously.

X118602

</AI30>

<AI31>

 

 

It is resolved that:

(A)        Council adopt the Contaminated Land Policy, as shown at Attachment A to the subject report; and

(B)        authority be delegated to the Chief Executive Officer to make amendments to the Contaminated Land Policy in order to correct any minor drafting errors and finalise design, artwork and accessible formats for publication.

Carried unanimously.

S111706

 

It is resolved that:

(A)      Council approve the granting of a sub-lease for the Cathedral Street car park to Wilson Parking Australia 1992 Pty Ltd (ABN 67 052 475 911) for a period of 5 years, with 2 optional extension periods, one of 4 years and one of 3 years, and in accordance with the essential lease terms and conditions contained within Confidential Attachment A to the subject report; and

(B)      authority be delegated to the Chief Executive Officer to negotiate, execute and administer the terms of the sub-lease in accordance with the essential terms and conditions contained within Confidential Attachment A to the subject report.

Carried unanimously.

X114800

 

It is resolved that:

(A)      Council note that:

(i)         Council is the owner of 6 of the 7 buildings required for the development of Town Hall Square on the corners of George, Park and Pitt Streets;

(ii)        the remaining building to be acquired by Council is Lot 13 in Deposited Plan 80276 (Folio Identifier 13/80276), known as 542-544 George Street, Sydney (the Property);

(iii)      the delivery of Town Hall Square is proposed to be accelerated, such that works are to commence by 2028;

(iv)      on 12 May 2025, Council resolved to commence the process of compulsory acquisition of the Property for the reasons set out in the subject report; and

(v)       the proposed acceleration also justifies completing the process of compulsory acquisition;

(B)      Council note that if agreement with the relevant interest-holders is unable to be reached prior to 19 November 2025, Council will progress the compulsory acquisition process with respect to the required interests in the Property for the purposes of the proposed Town Hall Square, in accordance with the Land Acquisition (Just Terms Compensation) Act 1991 NSW (Just Terms Act);

(C)      Council endorse:

(i)         seeking and obtaining Ministerial Consent to issue Proposed Acquisition Notices;

(ii)        issuing the Proposed Acquisition Notices;

(iii)      (if necessary) publishing an Acquisition Notice in the NSW Government Gazette; and

(iv)      paying compensation to the affected interest-holders in accordance with the heads of compensation under the Just Terms Act;

(D)      authority be delegated to the Chief Executive Officer to negotiate, execute and administer documentation required to acquire the interests in the Property;

(E)      Council endorse the proposed resolution 'It is resolved to classify the proposed acquisition of 542-544 George Street, Sydney (being Folio Identifier 13/80276) as operational land in accordance with section 31 of the Local Government Act 1993 (NSW)', be publicly notified for a period of 28 days prior to or following the completion of the acquisition; and

(F)      Council note that a further report to inform the outcomes of public notification and recommendation on land classification, will follow any notification period.

The motion was carried on the following show of hands –

Ayes (9)     The Chair (the Lord Mayor), Councillors Arkins, Ellsmore, Gannon, Kok, Maxwell, Miller, Thompson, and Worling.

Noes (1)     Councillor Weldon.

Carried.

X073030

 

It is resolved that:

(A)        Council note that Victoria Barracks:

(i)           is set on a portion of the original 1,000 acres of land that Governor Macquarie bequeathed to the people of Sydney;

(ii)         is one of Sydney’s most significant heritage sites, a symbol of 175 years of military service and an integral part of Australia’s defence history;

(iii)        is on the Commonwealth Heritage List and is locally heritage listed;

(iv)        contains the finest complex of colonial barracks in Australia, with an important collection of late Georgian sandstone buildings that served military purposes for almost 2 centuries; and

(v)         is still owned and operated by the Australian Defence Force and remains an active military site today, with many of its original buildings still in use and adapted for modern military administrative uses;

(B)        Council note the findings of the Victoria Barracks Engagement Outcomes Report as shown at Attachment B to the subject report, subject to the following amendments:

(i)           update the guiding principle which reads “Maximise public accessibility” to also include “and maintain public ownership”; and

(ii)          update the detailed “Victoria Barracks Guiding Principles” document dated November 2025 to clarify that the guiding principle which reads “incorporate housing including diverse housing” includes public housing;

(C)        Council endorse the Victoria Barracks Guiding Principles as shown at Attachment A to the subject report, which prioritise the conservation and enhancement of the heritage and military significance of the site and note that they will be sent to the Department of Defence with an invitation for City of Sydney staff to provide a briefing; and

(D)        the Lord Mayor be requested to send the Victoria Barracks Guiding Principles as shown at Attachment A to the subject report to the Minister for Defence Richard Marles with an invitation to further discuss should divestment be contemplated.

The amended motion was carried unanimously.

X121526

 

It is resolved that:

(A)      Council approve the adoption of the name "Wiriyagan Place" for the space identified in Attachment A to the subject report; and

(B)      an application be made to the Geographical Names Board for the naming of the place as approved in (A), in accordance with the Geographical Names Act 1996.

Carried unanimously.

X116933.031

 

It is resolved that:

(A)      Council approve the adoption of the name "Daranggara Park" for the park identified in Attachment A to the subject report; and

(B)      an application be made to the Geographical Names Board for the naming of the place as approved in (A), in accordance with the Geographical Names Act 1996.

Carried unanimously.

X116933.029

 

It is resolved that:

(A)      Council approve the adoption of the name "Ngana Gili Plaza" for the space identified in Attachment A to the subject report; and

(B)      an application be made to the Geographical Names Board for the naming of the place as approved in (A), in accordance with the Geographical Names Act 1996.

Carried unanimously.

X116933.030

 

It is resolved that:

(A)      Council note the financial performance of Council for the first quarter, ending 30 September 2025, including a Quarter 1 Operating Result (before depreciation, interest, capital related costs and income) of $28.8M and the full year forecast of $115.7M and a Net Operating Result of $21.9M and a full year forecast of $115.6M as outlined in the subject report and summarised in Attachment A to the subject report;

(B)      Council note the Quarter 1 Capital Works expenditure of $58.9M and a revised full year forecast of $297.3M, and approve the proposed adjustments to the adopted budget, including bringing forward $0.9M of funds into the 2025/26 capital budget, and to reallocate funds within relevant programs within capital budget as detailed in Attachment B to the subject report;

(C)      Council note the Technology and Digital Services Capital Works expenditure of $5.9M, and a full year forecast of $29.8M and approve bringing forward $1.8M of funds into the 2026/27 and to reallocate funds within relevant programs within capital budget as detailed in Attachment B to the subject report;

(D)      Council note the Quarter 1 Plant and Equipment expenditure of $1.8M, net of disposals, and a full year forecast of $32.3M;

(E)      Council note the net Property Divestments forecast of $122.3M as at Quarter 1, which is in line with budget;

(F)      Council note the supplementary reports, which detail the quick response, street banner and venue hire support grants and sponsorship programs, code of conduct, major legal issues and international travel in Quarter 1, as detailed in Attachment C to the subject report;

(G)      Council approve the write-off of a commercial property debt of $183,509.39 (including GST), for GPSS Family Pty Ltd (formerly trading as Bullpen Café), as the company has been deregistered; and

(H)      Council note the information in Attachment D to the subject report, which outlines the Notices of Motion, Lord Mayoral Minutes and Councillor Amendments Cost summary.

Carried unanimously.

X115821

 

It is resolved that:

(A)      Council note that in accordance with 6.21D(1)(c) of the Sydney Local Environmental Plan 2012 a competitive design process is required to be undertaken for the Bay Street Depot project;

(B)      Council note the details of the proposed competitive design process to be undertaken for the Bay Street Depot project as outlined in this report and Attachment A to the subject report;

(C)      Council approve an exemption from tender in accordance with section 55(3)(i) of the Local Government Act 1993 for the appointment of the winning competitor (at the completion of the competitive design process) as the Head Design Consultant for the project;

(D)      Council note that an exemption from tender is recommended for the following reasons:

(i)         an expression of interest process to select suitably qualified companies to provide Head Design Consultancy Services for the project was undertaken in 2022. This process received 44 responses and 5 companies were selected to participate in a selected tender;

(ii)        it is proposed to invite the 5 companies selected through the 2022 expression of interest to participate in the invited competitive design process noting that these companies are suitably qualified, meet the requirements set out in the City's Competitive Design Policy, and the site specific Design Excellence Strategy;

(iii)      conducting a tender process would not be consistent with the requirements for the conduct of a competitive design process in the manner proposed for this project; and

(iv)      the winning competitor of the competitive design process is required to be appointed as the Head Design Consultant in accordance with the requirements of Section 5.1 Design Integrity of the City's Competitive Design Policy;

(E)      authority be delegated to the Chief Executive Officer to negotiate, execute and administer the contracts relating to the competitive design process and engagement of the successful Competitor as the Head Design Consultant; and

(F)      Council be informed of the successful Competitor via the CEO Update.

Carried unanimously.

X089168.001

 

It is resolved that:

(A)        Council approve the cash recommendations for the Green Building Grant program as shown at Attachment A to the subject report;

(B)        Council note the applicants who were not recommended in obtaining a cash grant for the Green Building Grant program as shown at Attachment B to the subject report;

(C)        Council note that all grant amounts are exclusive of GST;

(D)        authority be delegated to the Chief Executive Officer to negotiate, execute and administer agreements with any organisation approved for a grant or sponsorship under terms consistent with this resolution and the Grants and Sponsorship Policy; and

(E)        authority be delegated to the Chief Executive Officer to correct minor errors to the matters set out in this report, noting that the identity of the recipient will not change, and a CEO Update will be provided.

Carried unanimously.

S117676

 

It is resolved that:

(A)      Council approve the cash and value-in-kind recommendations for the Innovation and Ideas Grant program as shown at Attachment A to the subject report;

(B)      Council note the applicants who were not recommended in obtaining a cash grant or value-in-kind for the Innovation and Ideas Grant program as shown at Attachment B to the subject report;

(C)      Council note that all grant amounts are exclusive of GST;

(D)      authority be delegated to the Chief Executive Officer to negotiate, execute and administer agreements with any organisation approved for a grant or sponsorship under terms consistent with this resolution and the Grants and Sponsorship Policy; and

(E)      authority be delegated to the Chief Executive Officer to correct minor errors to the matters set out in this report, noting that the identity of the recipient will not change, and a CEO Update will be provided.

Carried unanimously.

S117676

 

It is resolved that:

(A)        Council approve the cash and value-in-kind recommendations for the Festivals and Events Sponsorship program as shown at Attachment A to the subject report;

(B)        Council note the applicants who were not recommended in obtaining a cash grant or value-in-kind for the Festivals and Events Sponsorship program as shown at Attachment B to the subject report;

(C)        Council note that all grant amounts are exclusive of GST;

(D)        authority be delegated to the Chief Executive Officer to negotiate, execute and administer agreements with any organisation approved for a grant or sponsorship under terms consistent with this resolution and the Grants and Sponsorship Policy; and

(E)        authority be delegated to the Chief Executive Officer to correct minor errors to the matters set out in this report, noting that the identity of the recipient will not change, and a CEO Update will be provided.

Carried unanimously.

S117676

 

It is resolved that:

(A)        Council approve the cash recommendations for the Food Support program as shown at Attachment A to the subject report;

(B)        Council note the applicants who were not recommended in obtaining a cash grant for the Food Support program as shown at Attachment B to the subject report;

(C)        Council approve the cash recommendations for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Collaboration Fund as shown at Attachment C to the subject report;

(D)        Council note the applicants who were not recommended in obtaining a cash grant for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Collaboration Fund as shown at Attachment D to the subject report;

(E)        Council note that all grant amounts are exclusive of GST;

(F)        Council approve the granting of financial assistance up to a total value of $50,000 from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Collaboration Fund to be used for a small grant round for organisations to apply for up to $20,000 each to activate the spaces at 107 Redfern Street, Redfern;

(G)       authority be delegated to the Chief Executive Officer to determine applications in relation to the small grant round referred to in clause (F), with the outcomes to be reported to Council via the CEO Update;

(H)        authority be delegated to the Chief Executive Officer to negotiate, execute and administer agreements with any organisation approved for a grant or sponsorship under terms consistent with this resolution and the Grants and Sponsorship Policy; and

(I)          authority be delegated to the Chief Executive Officer to correct minor errors to the matters set out in this report, noting that the identity of the recipient will not change, and a CEO Update will be provided.

Carried unanimously.

S117676

 

It is resolved that:

(A)      Council present the 2024/25 Annual Financial Statements and auditor's reports to the public as shown at Attachment A to the subject report;

(B)      Council adopt the 2024/25 Annual Financial Reports subject to the receipt of any submissions over the ensuing 7-day period;

(C)      Council endorse the 2024/25 Annual Report, including the Financial Statements, Delivery Program 2022–2026 Progress Report and Statutory Returns for 2024/25 as shown at Attachments A, B and C to the subject report;

(D)      Council note the 2024/25 annual report on the City's Inclusion (Disability) Action Plan 2021–2025 as shown at Attachment D to the subject report;

(E)      Council note the 2024/25 Green Report as shown at Attachment E to the subject report; and

(F)      authority be delegated to the Chief Executive Officer to make any minor amendments to the reports to correct any drafting errors and finalise design, artwork and accessible formats for publication.

Carried unanimously.

X122632

 

It is resolved that:

(A)      Council approve an exemption from tender in accordance with section 55(3)(i) of the Local Government Act 1993 for the provision of the maintenance, support, subscription and licencing of the software applications, platforms and hardware appliances for the extension and (if appropriate) option period listed in Confidential Attachment A to the subject report, noting that because of extenuating circumstances, a satisfactory result would not be achieved by inviting tenders;

(B)      Council note the reasons why a satisfactory outcome would not be achieved by inviting tenders differ for each application, platform or appliance and include:

(i)         only one supplier can provide the goods or services;

(ii)        transitioning to a new solution or replacing an existing asset will result in substantial implementation costs;

(iii)      upgrades or changes to service requirements are planned to be implemented within the next 5 years; and

(iv)      the current supplier has specialised knowledge of the City’s needs, and their continued engagement will deliver value for money;

(C)      Council note that the detailed reasons as to why a satisfactory result will not be achieved by inviting tenders are outlined further in Confidential Attachment A to the subject report;

(D)      Council enter into the subscription, licencing, maintenance and support agreements for the relevant products or with the relevant suppliers upon the expiry of the current agreements for the respective extension period along with the optional extension, if appropriate, as listed in Confidential Attachment A to the subject report;

(E)      Council note the value for each product or supplier for the extension period and optional extension is noted in Confidential Attachment A to the subject report; and

(F)      authority be delegated to the Chief Executive Officer to finalise, execute and administer (including exercising options, if appropriate) the subscription, licencing, maintenance and support agreements for the relevant products or with the relevant suppliers as listed in Confidential Attachment A to the subject report.

Carried unanimously.

S064539

 

The Panel granted consent to Development Application Number D/2025/670 subject to the conditions set out in Attachment A to the subject report, and subject to the following amendments (additions shown in bold italics, deletions shown in strikethrough):

(2) DESIGN MODIFICATION

The proposed awning fascia sign is to be amended to be more in keeping with the architecture of the building. The sign content is to be amended to remove reference to “tobacconist” and include the name of the business and/or “convenience store” with different colour design. The awning fascia sign is to be unilluminated.

Modified plans are to be resubmitted and approved by the Area Planning Manager prior to issue of an Occupation Certificate.

Reason

To ensure the signage is compatible with the architectural character of the building and the surrounding area.

(5) GOODS FOR SALE

No illicit goods, illicit tobacco or illicit vaping goods, as defined in the Public Health (Tobacco) Act 2008, shall be sold from or kept on the premises.

Reason

To ensure the goods sold on the premises are legally obtained.

Remaining conditions to be renumbered accordingly.

Reasons for Decision

The application was approved for the following reasons:

(A)      The proposal generally satisfies the objectives and provisions of the SEPP (Precincts – Eastern Harbour City) 2021 and the City of Sydney Convenience Store Development Control Plan 2004. The proposed development is permitted with consent in the Residential Zone – Medium Density zone.

(B)      The proposed development, subject to conditions, is unlikely to result in any significant adverse environmental or amenity impacts on surrounding properties or the public domain, subject to conditions.

(C)      Issues raised in the submissions have been considered in the assessment and conditions of consent have been included in recommended conditions of consent to address these concerns (including the two additional conditions, to which the applicant’s representative raised no objection). 

(D)      Condition 2 was added to ensure the signage is compatible with the architectural character of the building and the surrounding area.

(E)      Condition 5 was added to ensure that the goods sold on the premises are legally obtained.

Carried unanimously.

D/2025/670

 

The Panel: (A)      determined that based upon the material available to the Panel at the time of determining this application, including the “Clause 4.6 Variation Request”, Revision B submitted on 15 August 2025, pursuant to Regulation 35B of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2021, the Panel is satisfied that the applicant has demonstrated that compliance with the floor space ratio development standard in Clause 4.4 of the Sydney Local Environmental Plan 2012 is unreasonable or unnecessary and that there are sufficient planning grounds to justify contravening this development standard; and (B)      granted consent to Development Application number D/2025/410 subject to the conditions set out in Attachment A to the subject report, subject to the following amendments (additions shown in bold italics, deletions shown in strikethrough): (1A) DESIGN MODIFICATION – LOADING DOCK DOOR The proposed loading dock door facing Marlborough Street is not approved. An amended door design, including materials, pattern and finishes of the roller door must have regard to the design of the approved first floor rear kitchen addition, complementing the verticality of the first floor addition. This amended door design must be submitted to and approved by Council’s Area Planning Manager prior to the issue of any Construction Certificate. Reason To ensure the design of the loading dock door reflects the subject building, heritage item and conservation area. (1B) SECURITY IN THE ABSENCE OF SECURITY STAFF The Plan of Management is to be revised to address security tasks to be taken on by staff when security guards are not present. Reason To address security issues when security guards are not present. (3) HOUSING AND PRODUCTIVITY CONTRIBUTION Before the issue of any Construction Certificate the housing and productivity contribution (HPC) set out in the table below is required to be made. Housing and productivity contribution Amount Housing and productivity contribution (base component) $11,566.49 Transport project component Nil Total housing and productivity contribution $11.566.49 $11,566.49 The HPC (indexed at March 2025) must be paid using the NSW planning portal (https://pp.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/). At the time of payment, the amount of the HPC is to be adjusted in accordance with the Environmental Planning and Assessment (Housing and Productivity Contributions) Order 2024 (HPC Order). The HPC may be made wholly or partly as a non-monetary contribution (apart from any transport project component) if the Minister administering the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979 agrees. The HPC is not required to be made to the extent that a planning agreement excludes the application of Subdivision 4 of Division 7.1 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979 to the development, or the HPC Order exempts the development from the contribution. The amount of the contribution may be reduced under the HPC Order, including if payment is made before 1 July 2026. (12) BICYCLE PARKING AND END OF TRIP FACILITIES (a)     The minimum number of bicycle parking spaces and end of trip facilities to be provided within the site boundary for the development must comply with the table below. Bicycle Parking Type Number Requirements  Staff / Employee  2 Spaces must be Class 2 bicycle facilities  End of Trip Facility Type  Number    Showers with change area   2    Personal lockers  3 2     (b)     All bicycle parking spaces and end of trip facilities must be provided on private land. The public domain cannot be used to satisfy this condition. (c)     The layout, design and security of bicycle facilities must comply with the minimum requirements of Australian Standard AS 2890.3 Parking Facilities Part 3: Bicycle Parking Facilities. The details must be submitted to and approved by the Registered Certifier confirming prior to and form part of the Construction Certificate being issued.   (48A) NOISE FROM COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL ACTIVITIES (a)       Cumulative noise must not exceed either a project noise trigger level or maximum noise level in accordance with relevant requirements of the NSW EPA Noise Policy for Industry 2017 (NPfl). External background noise monitoring must be carried out in accordance with the long-term methodology in Fact Sheet B of the NPfl unless otherwise agreed by the City. (b)       Cumulative noise from the use must comply with the following requirements when assessed inside an occupiable room of a separate premises that is residential accommodation, tourist and visitor accommodation, or a sensitive commercial premises at any time: (i)      An LAeq, 15 minute measured with external windows and doors closed must not exceed the lesser of either an internal LA90 + 0 dB measured with external doors and windows closed, or 30 dB(A) for a sleeping area, or else 40 dB(A) in any other habitable room. (ii)     An LAeq,15 minute measured with external windows and doors open must not exceed the internal LA90 + 0 dB when measured with external windows and doors open. This is not applicable if the room has an alternative source of ducted ventilation. (iii)    An Internal LA90 must represent the receiver in a quiet state. It may be derived from the median of multiple LA90, 15 minute measurements at the same location. (iv)    Internal background noise measurements must not include noise from the land subject to development but may include noise from necessary alternative passive or mechanical ventilation at the affected premises. (v)     Corrections in Fact Sheet C of the NPfI are applicable to relevant noise from the use measured in accordance with the above, however duration corrections are excluded from commercial noise. A correction for impulsive noise must be made in accordance with section 6.6.4 of Australian Standard 1055.1-1997. (vi)    This requirement does not apply to an entertainment activity as defined by S202A of the NSW Local Government Act. Noise sources outlined in S1.5 of the NPfI with the exception of sporting facilities, are excluded from this requirement unless advised. Remaining conditions to be renumbered accordingly. Reasons for Decision The application was approved for the following reasons: (A)      The proposal satisfies the objectives of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 in that, subject to the recommended conditions of consent, it achieves the objectives of the planning controls for the site for the reasons outlined in the report to the Local Planning Panel. (B)      Based upon the material available to the Panel at the time of determining this application, the Panel is satisfied that the applicant’s written request has adequately addressed the matters required to be demonstrated by clause 4.6(3) of the Sydney LEP 2012, that compliance with the floor space ratio development standard is unreasonable or unnecessary and that there are sufficient planning grounds to justify contravening clause 4.4 of the Sydney LEP 2012. (C)      The development is permissible with consent in the MU1 Mixed Use Zone and is consistent with the objectives of the zone. (D)      The proposal has been assessed against the aims, objectives and provisions of the relevant planning controls. Where appropriate, conditions of consent have been recommended to ensure ongoing compliance with the Sydney Local Environmental Plan 2012, the Sydney Development Control Plan 2012, and the applicable Environmental Planning Instruments. (E)      The proposal will not unreasonably compromise the amenity of the surrounding area and has been recommended for approval with respect to trading hours in accordance with the Sydney DCP 2012 and relevant Council policies, controls and legislation. (F)      The proposal will not detrimentally impact upon the heritage significance of the heritage item, the Goodlet Street Heritage Conservation Area or the Cleveland Street Special Character Area. (G)      The proposed development demonstrates design excellence in accordance with the relevant provisions and matters for consideration in clause 6.21C of the Sydney Local Environmental Plan 2012. (H)      The proposed reduction of affordable housing has been assessed against relevant planning instruments and policies and is compliant provided a Section 7.32 contribution is payable in accordance with the recommended condition. (I)        The proposal is in the public interest subject to the recommended conditions. (J)       Condition 1(A) was added to ensure the design of the loading dock door reflects the subject building, heritage item and conservation area. (K)      Condition 1(B) was added to address security issues when security guards are not present. (L)       Condition 3 was amended to correct a typographical error in punctuation. (M)     Condition 12 was amended in response to a request from the applicant.  (N)      Condition 48 (A) was added as it had been omitted in error.

Carried unanimously. D/2025/410