This past year has highlighted North Sydney’s remarkable resilience and strong sense of community, amid ongoing external pressures. Council focus has remained on advancing projects and initiatives that directly benefit residents, enhancing quality of life, accessibility and environmental sustainability.
Community engagement has been at the heart of Council efforts this year, launching North Sydney’s largest-ever consultation to understand the community’s shared challenges and opportunities for the coming decade. The insights shared by the community will directly guide and inform the new 2025-2035 Community Strategic Plan ensuring that Council plans and priorities truly reflect the community’s evolving needs and aspirations.
Volunteers and public participation are central to what makes North Sydney so special, this dedication strengthens the community and safeguards the natural environment. This year, Council proudly celebrated the 25th anniversary of the Building Bridges to Boorowa project, which exemplifies the incredible power of volunteers in fostering meaningful connections between urban and rural communities.
North Sydney local landscape continues to be significantly impacted by major State Government infrastructure projects, including the Western Harbour Tunnel and Warringah Freeway Upgrade works. Council continues to actively advocate for North Sydney’s interests, addressing environmental and social concerns arising from these developments.
Although significant progress has been made, Council continues to tackle the considerable challenge posed by the substantial, inherited legacy of decision-making related to the North Sydney Olympic Pool (NSOP) redevelopment. The rising costs associated with this project have significantly affected Council’s financial position and will have enduring implications for the future.
This report details the services and projects undertaken by Council over the course of the 2023/24 financial year, including:
- expanded sustainable transport options by adding new cycleways and enhancing pedestrian-friendly spaces, promoting active travel that is safer and more accessible for all
- reinforced Council commitment to renewable energy by investing in sustainable infrastructure and supporting local initiatives to reduce waste and improve biodiversity collaborated with schools and young people to participate in civic events and celebrations
- invested in Crows Nest and North Sydney CBD to meet the incredible opportunity of the opening of the Crows Nest and Victoria Cross Metro stations
- expanded open space such as Burton Street Plaza, Kirribilli
- established an Access and Inclusion Committee
All of the work detailed in this report could not have happened without the incredible dedication, skill and passion of North Sydney Council staff. I, therefore, acknowledge with respect and gratitude the CEO, Therese Cole, the Executive Leadership Team and every staff member for their extraordinary work over this shortened term.
Lastly, I wish to acknowledge my fellow councillors for their tireless commitment to North Sydney. Together, we have made necessary decisions to safeguard the future of the community, and I am proud of the work we have achieved together.
Council remains dedicated to delivering sustainable solutions that honour the unique character of North Sydney. Through continued collaboration with residents and stakeholders, I am confident we can embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Cr Zoë Baker, Mayor of North Sydney