How will the additional funds be used?
The primary focus of the SRV is infrastructure renewal and reducing the backlog of ageing assets. Funding will also support improved organisational systems, governance and service delivery.
What’s being delivered
• Playground upgrades at Ilbery Reserve, Berry Island Reserve and Tunks Park
• Expanded road, footpath and stormwater drainage renewals across the LGA
• Critical renewal works at the North Sydney Indoor Sports Centre
• Public domain upgrades in North Sydney CBD and village centres
• Accessibility improvements to parks and public spaces
• Greater investment in walking, cycling and road safety
• Strengthened maintenance and renewal of community buildings and facilities
• Tree planting and ongoing park care
• Community programs, services and events
• Expanded climate resilience and sustainability initiatives
The SRV approval means Council can restore ageing assets, plan capital works more effectively, and deliver a broader program of improvements across every part of the LGA:
Draft Delivery Program 2025–2029 and Operational Plan 2025–2026 and Budget 2026 - 2027
Why was a Special Rate Variation considered?
North Sydney Council applied to IPART for a Special Rate Variation to address a significant and growing gap between the costs of delivering services and maintaining infrastructure, and the revenue available under the standard rate peg.
For several years, the cost of maintaining Council’s infrastructure and delivering services has outpaced the income Council receives. The standard rate peg — set annually by IPART — has not kept pace with rising construction costs, material and supply chain pressures, or the cost of maintaining an ageing asset base.
Council’s asset portfolio includes roads, footpaths, drainage, parks, community buildings, sports facilities, pools and public spaces. Many of these assets are ageing and require renewal. Without sufficient funding, the backlog of works grows, assets deteriorate and the cost of future repairs increases.
Council sought a cumulative increase of 52.66% over three years to:
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Address the infrastructure renewal backlog
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Maintain the quality of services the community relies on
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Restore long-term financial sustainability
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Reduce reliance on debt and one-off measures to fund essential works
The application followed a detailed review of Council’s long-term financial position, infrastructure needs and service requirements.
Community engagement
Council undertook a comprehensive two-phase community engagement program before lodging its application with IPART. This involved residents, businesses, community groups and other key stakeholders across North Sydney.
IPART also conducted its own independent review of Council’s application, financial position and supporting evidence before making its determination.