Annual Report 2023/24

Crowd facing stage with a band performing. Banners that read 'sunset series' are on either side

How we did in 2023/24

The Annual Report lets you know how Council has performed over the year.

The Mayor's message

The Chief Executive Officer's foreword

Community Report

  • Direction 1: Our Living Environment

    1.1 Our natural environment is protected, enhanced and biodiverse

    • Council received the Local Government Community Partnership Award for the Building Bridges to Boorowa program, highlighting its impact on biodiversity and community collaboration. 
    • Over 10,250 hours of bushland rehabilitation work was completed, including the planting of 3,000 native tubestock plants in buffer zones and wildlife corridors. 
    • Our biodiversity conservation programs, such as Native Havens, Wildlife Watch, and Adopt-a-Plot, saw high community participation, reflecting a strong post-COVID recovery in engagement with bushland management efforts. 
    • The Bushcare program delivered over 40 workshops and events, with participants consistently rating them as 'excellent'. 
    • The Streets Alive Program added 16 new sites, enhancing local wildlife corridors and community connections, while HarbourCare grew to over 100 volunteers, improving North Sydney’s foreshore areas. 

    1.2 Our natural environment is environmentally sustainable

    • The Community Tool Library and Fix-it Hub repair events are now permanent, with the Fix-it Hub repairing 167 items and the Sydney Library of Things growing to 667 members, 36 volunteers, and 350 items. 
    • Our Sustainability Rebates Program launched with 14 rebates of up to $5,000, supporting energy and water-saving upgrades, while the Futureproofing Apartments Program assessed 270 strata buildings and supported sustainability initiatives like EV charging and solar installations. 
    • We expanded our renewable energy efforts, increasing solar electricity generation by 12% (total capacity 558kW) and installing renewable energy systems, including at Stanton Library and North Sydney Oval. 
    • We engaged the community through waste education programs including four social media campaigns, two composting webinars with 1,040 YouTube views, and 18 environmental workshops and webinars attended by 1,083 participants. 
    • Regional and local waste management studies, including the Regional Organics Implications Study and Sydney Water Biorefinery Study, are underway to improve organics processing and management. 

    1.3 Our places are clean and green

    • 109 trees were distributed through our Trees for Newborns initiative, symbolising growth and fostering connections between families and the environment.
    • Nine active community gardens across the Local Government Area provide spaces for residents to share knowledge, grow produce, and build stronger community ties.
    • The Community Garden Program welcomed 80 new volunteers, reflecting growing community interest in urban gardening and local food production.
    • These initiatives contribute to greener spaces, enhanced sustainability, and stronger community engagement across the region.

    1.4 Our open spaces are well utilised

    • We improved park accessibility and safety with pathway upgrades at St Leonards Park, Young and Earle Street Gardens, Milson Park, and Brennan Park, as well as new access ramps and stairs in Milson and Brennan Parks. 

    • New bike safety and park signage were installed at key locations, including St Leonards Park, Green Park Tennis Court, Waverton Park, and Forsyth Park, enhancing navigation and community safety. 

    • Significant progress was made on the historic Quarantine Boat Depot site, with designs being finalised for further access improvements, enabling public access and future works. 

    • The resurfacing of Tunnel No. 2 improved pedestrian safety and accessibility, with grape vines to provide future shade along the western colonnade. 

    • Community engagement activities since October 2023 gathered input from 452 survey responses, workshops, and forums, ensuring community voices are integrated into planning and future projects. 

  • Direction 2: Our Built Infrastructure

    2.1 Infrastructure and assets meet diverse community needs

    • We are updating our Asset Management System (CAMS) with stormwater drainage and road pavement condition data to ensure efficient monitoring and maintenance of infrastructure.
    • The Cammeray 40km/h High Pedestrian Area project is now under construction, with extended grant funding, to enhance pedestrian safety and traffic flow.
    • The successful completion of the Regional and Local Roads Repair Program (RLRRP) and Roads to Recovery (R2R) Program supported vital road upgrades, with Phase 4 of the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Program currently in progress.
    • Council remains proactive in seeking additional Federal and State Government funding to further improve road and community infrastructure.

    2.2 Our public domains and villages are vibrant

    • Significant progress has been made on the Willoughby Road upgrades, with drainage works completed and 75% of streetlighting and underground power installations finished. Final paving and landscaping was completed by September 2024.
    • The Waters Road upgrade is advancing, with plans to include additional works that will better meet the community’s needs. Completion is on track for 2024/25.
    • The Burton Street Plaza upgrade was 75% complete and on schedule to be finished by July 2024, delivering a more functional and attractive public space for the community.
    • New public amenities, designed to enhance community spaces, are set to be completed by August 2024, overcoming minor delays caused by material lead times.

    2.3 Sustainable and active transport is prioritised

    • We implemented the Road Safety Action Plan by delivering over 15 safety-focused activities, including pedestrian safety studies, jacaranda season safety improvements, and active transport programs with local schools.
    • We distributed 120 free car seat check vouchers and raised awareness about heavy vehicle safety and vehicle speed.
    • Grant applications have been submitted to fund new pedestrian crossings at Fitzroy Street, Yeo Street, and Rosalind Street, with outcomes expected during the 2024/25 Financial Year.
    • We engaged with local schools on Active Transport initiatives including Green Travel Plans, safe cycling campaigns, and road safety education, alongside efforts to secure funding for safer student crossings.
    • The Route 2 Young Street project was expanded to include additional intersection improvements, backed by grant funding, while Route 3 North Sydney to Mosman designs are being revised to address community concerns and improve accessibility.

    2.4 Efficient traffic and transport mobility

    • The Cammeray 40km/h High Pedestrian Area project is now under construction, with extended grant funding secured to enhance pedestrian safety in this high-traffic area.
    • We continue to promote sustainable transport by supporting car share programs, reducing reliance on private car ownership, and fostering a more connected and sustainable community.
    • Engagement with Transport for NSW on the North Sydney Integrated Transport Program (NSITP) was limited due to State budget constraints, which impacted the progression of key projects like Miller Place.
    • Despite funding challenges, Council remains committed to its vision for the North Sydney Centre and is actively advocating for the development of Miller Place to secure a sustainable and connected future.
  • Direction 3: Our Innovative City

    3.1 Our commercial centres are prosperous and vibrant

    • Through extensive community consultation on the Economic Development Discussion Paper, we gathered valuable feedback to inform the upcoming Economic Development Strategy for North Sydney's future economic growth. 
    • Ongoing engagement with the local business community, including the Business Chamber, promoted grant opportunities and strengthened partnerships to support business resilience and economic vitality.
    • A planning proposal for the North Sydney CBD is nearing finalisation, offering clear guidance for Development Applications and ensuring alignment with community infrastructure needs through the Local Infrastructure Contributions Plan.
    • We are reviewing the North Sydney CBD program to incorporate contemporary urban design principles and create a vibrant, forward-thinking central business district.
    • The inaugural North Sydney Festival launched a series of events aimed at boosting the CBD's profile as a lively and attractive destination for residents and visitors.

    3.2 Distinctive sense of place and design excellence

    • We ensured the preservation of important local heritage sites by finalising two Planning Proposals for heritage listings on Parraween Street and Holt Avenue.
    • The Neutral Bay Village Planning Study was adopted in May 2024, providing a clear framework for future development in the area.
    • Council actively participated in key planning processes, including re-zoning advocacy at the Sydney North Planning Panel and collaboration on the St Leonards/Crows Nest Transport Oriented Development precinct.
    • Despite a general downturn in development interest, three Design Excellence Panel meetings reviewed seven projects, with market recovery anticipated by 2025. 
    • We committed to addressing community housing needs by beginning research into a comprehensive Affordable Housing Scheme for North Sydney.
  • Direction 4: Our Social Vitality

    4.1 North Sydney is connected, inclusive, healthy and safe

    • Council strengthened its commitment to accessibility by delivering disability confidence training, establishing a Disability Employee Network and Access and Inclusion Committee, conducting over 50 footpath and road upgrades, and reviewing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP). 
    • Family Day Care (FDC) supported 130 families, maintained a low 4% vacancy rate, expanded services to include bilingual options and vacation care, and hosted family events, reflecting strong community ties and compliance with regulatory standards.
    • We hosted successful community initiatives, including the "Navigating Autism" webinar, the Refugee Week Gathering with over 80 participants, and the "Towards Inclusion: Northern Sydney Multicultural Disability Expo," attended by 300 people.
    • We conducted domestic violence awareness and prevention programs including six Domestic Violence Network meetings,16 Days of Activism events, and the Crows Nest Safe Village workshops for local businesses.
    • We supported our older community through wellness programs for seniors, including fitness, mobility, art, and tech literacy workshops, which were enhanced through small grants and collaboration with community centres, while community transport contracts were extended.
    • Council addressed homelessness with 44 outreach visits, over 60 hours of direct support, the implementation of a homelessness reporting tool, and coordination of the Northern Sydney Homelessness Forum, helping rough sleepers access services and accommodation.

    4.2 A centre for creativity and learning

    • Council awarded $10,000 in Creative Grants, hosted regular workshops, and provided subsidised residencies to 15 artists across 13 studios, while facilitating 17 exhibitions across various venues, including cultural events like NAIDOC Week and Pride Month.
    • The North Sydney Art Prize showcased 91 artworks at the Coal Loader site, adding two new pieces to Council’s collection, and launched the First Nations speakers talk series to promote cultural inclusivity.
    • Library services saw significant upgrades, including a new online payment system, enhanced Stanton Library app, and improved eBook borrowing, projected to increase loans by 35%, alongside 64 tech help sessions and expanded access through Bus to Books.
    • Stanton Library hosted 40 events with over 2,600 attendees, including science literacy and First Nations storytelling workshops, while reconfigured shelving and new child-friendly spaces improved the children’s library.
    • Council delivered diverse community events, such as the Seniors Festival with 16 activities and Youth Week’s Colour Flix, fostering intergenerational connections and engagement, with strong attendance and growing partnerships.

    4.3 Our heritage is preserved and recognised

    • Council’s Historical Services collaborated with local groups and divisions to deliver engaging talks, tours, and exhibitions, fostering a deeper appreciation for North Sydney’s cultural heritage.
    • The Heritage Centre processed 224 in-depth enquiries on topics such as family history, historical maps, and photographic records, while providing access to archives and resources for community research.
    • Key achievements include the completion of an interpretive website on Chinese market gardeners, launching in July 2024, and progress on a Digital Asset Management System (DAMS) for preserving digital heritage records.
    • Council maintained heritage sites, including Don Bank and St Thomas’ Rest Park, and is preparing artefacts from the North Sydney Olympic Pool for reinterpretation upon its reopening.
    • We supported First Nations cultural initiatives, including an exhibition by Blak Douglas, First Nations-led workshops, and a new mural for Hutley Hall, all showcased in the Gai-Maraigal Festival.
  • Direction 5: Our Civic Leadership

    5.1 Lead North Sydney’s strategic direction

    • Council engaged over 1,000 residents through the Our Next Ten Years campaign, collecting valuable feedback on five discussion papers to shape the 2025-2035 Community Strategic Plan, with further community input planned for November 2024.
    • We collaborated with Northern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (NSROC) and liaised with State and Federal governments to advocate for local priorities, including major projects such as the Warringah Freeway Upgrade and Bradfield Park Cycleway.
    • We developed a draft Service Review framework based on best practices, set to be piloted in early 2024/25, to enhance service efficiency and better align with community needs.
    • Council made strategic submissions to key government bodies on issues like rate peg methodology and local government sustainability to influence policy and secure funding opportunities. 
    • Initiated the development of a broader IT strategy to ensure upcoming financial system upgrades are aligned with long-term operational goals and deliver maximum benefits.

    5.2 Strong civic leadership and customer focused services

    • Council actively contributed to the Resilient Sydney Strategy review by providing data, attending workshops, and promoting resilience-focused events, demonstrating its commitment to building a resilient community.
    • The newly established Audit, Risk, and Improvement Committee (ARIC) held its first meeting in June 2024, introducing enhanced governance measures for improved decision-making and accountability.
    • Updates to the Public Interest Disclosure Policy expanded the number of disclosure officers, ensuring compliance with legislation and promoting workplace transparency.
    • Council transitioned to the LG NSW and NSW State Government Legal Panels to secure cost-effective legal services, with a review of legal rates ensuring value for money.
    • Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) initiatives, including early hazard identification, improved injury management practices, and new inspection technologies, contributed to safer workplaces and reduced workers' compensation claims.

    5.3 Community is engaged in what council does

    • We published three editions of North Sydney News and managed over 250 e-newsletters, 30 media releases, and 39 mayoral speeches, while addressing 150 media enquiries. The website attracted over 1,050,000 visits, reflecting strong community engagement.
    • Council hosted numerous events for the community, including the North Sydney Art Prize, Sunset Series, Twilight Food Fair, and Symphony in St Leonards Park, drew large crowds and celebrated cultural milestones such as NAIDOC Week, International Women’s Day, and Pride Month.
    • Community feedback from the Culture and Creativity discussions is shaping a refreshed events program and updated branding to better align with community expectations.
    • The Precinct System Review progressed, with key recommendations being implemented and a Combined Precinct Committee meeting ensuring remaining actions are prioritised for early 2024/25.
    • We’re updating our Community Engagement Strategy, informed by data from the Our Next Ten Years campaign and forums, to strengthen community participation in decision-making processes.

    5.4 Council services are efficient and easy to access

    • Council upgraded its network infrastructure, improving performance and security, and is modernising its 20-year-old SISmap GIS viewer to maintain efficient community services.
    • Records management enhancements included transitioning to a SaaS platform, digitising property files, and completing 86 of 223 review recommendations, with further progress underway.
    • Procurement processes were strengthened through staff training, leveraging group buying power, and aligning with anti-slavery guidelines to ensure ethical and compliant practices.
    • Workforce initiatives included transitioning to an e-recruitment system, promoting career transition support, and hosting the inaugural Workforce Development Day to foster collaboration and teamwork across departments.
    • A 75% participation rate in the Officevibe staff survey provided valuable insights to guide future strategies for employee satisfaction and organisational improvement.

Major Projects and Levies

  • Capital Works

    Willoughby Street Upgrade

    • The Crows Nest Willoughby Street upgrade focuses on community needs, delivering wider footpaths, increased greenery, modern street lighting, and redesigned public seating to create a safer and more inviting pedestrian space.
    • Underground electrical infrastructure has been installed to reduce visual clutter and enhance the area’s overall appeal.
    • Sustainable features, such as native plantings and water-sensitive urban design, highlight the commitment to environmentally responsible urban development.
    • The project, guided by feedback from residents and businesses, supports local businesses by encouraging greater foot traffic throughout the day and evening.
    • Willoughby Street now serves as a vibrant, sustainable, and community-centred public space in Crows Nest.

    287 Miller Street – Affordable Housing

    • North Sydney Council, in partnership with Link Wentworth, is developing a new-generation boarding house at 287 Miller Street, Cammeray, featuring 12 self-contained studio units.
    • The project aims to provide safe and affordable housing for individuals at risk of homelessness or experiencing housing stress, with convenient access to services, amenities, and public transport.
    • Scheduled for completion in late 2025, the property will include shared laundry facilities, communal spaces, and outdoor areas to foster a supportive living environment.
    • Seven units will be allocated to individuals at risk of homelessness, five to those on the social housing waitlist, and three will exceed accessibility standards, promoting inclusivity.
    • This initiative strengthens the partnership between North Sydney Council and Link Wentworth, aligning with their shared vision of building a sustainable, inclusive, and supportive community.

    North Sydney Olympic Pool

    Council also continued work on the redevelopment of the North Sydney Olympic Pool. As this is an ongoing project, it has been removed from this Annual Report page to ensure there is no confusion for people looking for current information. 

Financial Report

  • Financial Summary

    In 2023/24:  

    • Council’s statements show a net operating surplus after grants and contributions for capital purposes of $13.05 million 
    • the result excluding capital grants and contributions is a deficit of $3.6 million - this was heavily impacted by a non-cash decrease of $2.7 million in the value of Council’s investment property portfolio 
    • The declining Operating Performance Ratio reflects a weakening financial position for the Council year on year. The ratio was 3.32 in the 2021/22 financial year, dropping to 1.33 in 2022/23, and has fallen further to -0.2 in 2023/24. This continued decline is largely due to a reduction in own-source revenue streams and increases in costs due to high inflation.  
    • A total of $66.72 million was spent on capital projects during the year. Of this, $59.12 million was allocated to renewing existing infrastructure, property, plant, and equipment, including $38.2 million for the North Sydney Olympic Pool project. An additional $7.6 million was invested in acquiring new infrastructure, property, plant, and equipment.   
    • Total assets increased by 3% to $1.8 billion 
    • Total liabilities marginally increased to $90.0 million  
    • Community equity increased by 3% to $1.7 billion 

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