At its meeting on Monday 12 May, North Sydney Council considered updates on bike share, internal audits, parking fees, community engagement, and funding for The Coal Loader.
10.1. Bike-Share Operations in the North Sydney Local Government Area – Response to Council Resolution
Council received an update on bike-share services in the North Sydney area, following its resolution from 10 March 2025.
The report noted that while Council cannot legally restrict bike-share companies, it continues to advocate for stronger regulation to improve pedestrian safety and reduce footpath clutter. In 2024, Council submitted to the NSW Upper House Inquiry into e-mobility, calling for better regulation and safety measures. The Inquiry’s findings were released in February 2025, with a government response expected soon.
Council has also re-engaged with Lime Bikes to revisit a proposed 12-month e-bike share trial. Negotiations are ongoing, and both parties’ legal teams are reviewing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The MoU should be finalised within six months, after which Councillors will be briefed.
This initiative supports Council’s broader efforts for sustainable transport while addressing safety and accessibility concerns raised by the community.
The North Sydney Bike Action Plan 2025 is on public exhibition until Monday 26 May 2025. Have your say here: North Sydney Bike Action Plan 2025 | Your Say North Sydney
10.2. Internal Audit Function – Shared Service Agreement
Council approved an updated shared service agreement for its internal audit function, continuing its collaboration with neighbouring councils.
North Sydney Council has participated in a shared internal audit arrangement since 2009, partnering with Hunters Hill, Ku-ring-gai, Lane Cove, Mosman and Strathfield Councils. This arrangement enables member councils to access high-quality, independent audits while benefiting from shared learnings and cost efficiencies.
Each council receives a set number of audits per year based on an agreed ratio, with audits delivered by a panel of external providers managed by Northern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (NSROC). The model aligns with the NSW Office of Local Government’s Risk Management and Internal Audit Guidelines, supporting continuous improvement for member councils.
Read the agreement here: Internal Audit Function - Shared Service Agreement
10.3. Parking Meter Fees and Service Fee Clarification
Council reviewed upcoming changes to state guidelines on pay parking and endorsed steps to prepare to remove the 8.25% service fee charged to parking app users.
Following the July 2024 upgrade of parking meter systems due to the 3G network shutdown, Council adopted a new system offering greater convenience for users, including app and QR code payment options. In line with a ‘user pays’ principle, a service fee of 8.25% was applied to app transactions to avoid passing the cost onto all ratepayers.
However, the NSW Government has announced a review of the Pay Parking and Controlled Loading Zone Guidelines (PPCLZG), with updated guidelines expected mid-2025. The revised rules are expected to require councils to absorb any service fees charged for parking transactions, in line with Section 96 of the Road Transport (General) Regulation.
Council noted that absorbing the service fee will add an estimated cost of $334,000 per year. Despite this, the upgraded system still generates overall savings and improved service outcomes. Council resolved to adjust its 2025/26 budget accordingly and place the draft Fees and Charges on public exhibition for community feedback.
The Draft Fees and Charges Schedule 2025-26 is on public exhibition until Sunday 1 June 2025. Have your say here: Draft Fees and Charges Schedule 2025-26 | Your Say North Sydney
10.4. Draft Community Engagement Strategy
Council endorsed the public exhibition of the draft 2025–2029 Community Engagement Strategy (CES) and Community Participation Plan (CPP) to gather community feedback before its final adoption.
The draft CES replaces the previous 2019 protocol and aligns with state legislation and best practice guidelines, including the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework and the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. It provides a clear framework for how Council engages the community in shaping policies, plans, and major activities.
A key feature of the new CES is the inclusion of eight new Strategic Advisory Reference (STAR) committees, designed to provide expert input and enhance the implementation of Council’s Community Strategic Plan and Delivery Program.
The public exhibition of the draft strategy will run from 14 May to 11 June 2025.
The CES and CPP will be available for your feedback from 14 May: Your Say North Sydney
10.5. The Coal Loader – Budget Redirection
Council received the report on investments and loan borrowings as at 31 March 2025. Council’s investment portfolio performed in line with the AusBond Bank Bill Index, returning +0.35% for the month. The investment return exceeded the March year-to-date budget by $897,349.
You can view the report here: Investment and Loan Borrowings Report as at 31 March 2025