Griffith City Council - Annual Report 2021/22

Griffith City Council Annual Report 2021/2022

Acknowledgement of Country

Griffith City Council acknowledges the Wiradjuri people as the traditional owners and custodians of the land and waters, and their deep knowledge embedded within the Aboriginal community. Council further pays respect to the local Wiradjuri Elders, past, present and those emerging, for whom we acknowledge have responsibilities for the continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational practices of the local Wiradjuri people.

Welcome

Message from the Mayor

Purpose of the Annual Report

Financial Summary

Section 2: Introduction Section 5: Section 6: 136

Section 1: Section 3: Section 4: Financial Statements - Council has been granted an extension of time for the preparation and auditing of the financial statements

End of Term Report 2016-2021 Appendix: 137

Section 1: Welcome

Welcome to Griffith City Council’s Annual Report for 2021-22

I am pleased to present the Griffith City Council Annual Report for 2021/22, which provides a snapshot of Council’s achievements over the past 12 months.

Council continues to work through the targets set out in the Community Strategic Plan (CSP). To this end, numerous projects are in progress, as at 30 June 2022. These include the Griffith Southern Industrial Link Road - Thorne Rd (West) including roundabout at the intersection of Thorne Road and Murrumbidgee Avenue, Yambil Street Upgrade (Stage 3 - Ulong Street to Daines Street), Kooyoo Street Upgrade (Stage 1Banna Avenue to Banna Lane), Annual Road Reseals and Maintenance Program, Boorga Road/Dickie Road sealing project, Flood Mitigation - Yoogali Culvert upgrade, Collina Stormwater Retention Basin embellishment and Griffith Regional Sports Centre. Looking ahead, in addition to the projects already mentioned, there are two priority areas in particular that I wish to touch on.

The first is Lake Wyangan Water Treatment. At the meeting held 26 July 2022, Council resolved to proceed with the treatment of water in North Lake and South Lake with the objective of reducing blue green algae. There are two alternative products being trialled and both are approved/endorsed by the Environmental Protection Authority of NSW. At the time of drafting this report, the preliminary results of water samples from North Lake are very encouraging. During September 2022, Council submitted an application to the NSW Government for grant funding under the Regional Tourism Activation Fund to assist with embellishment of facilities at the

Message from the Mayor

North Lake recreation area. Council expects to be advised of the outcome of this application during November.

Council has also been working closely with Murrumbidgee Irrigation regarding Lake Wyangan and this constructive relationship will continue as we explore opportunities to reduce the level of salinity in the Lake. The salt content within the water bodies (North and South) have been steadily increasing over the years to the point where this trend must be reversed very soon if the Lake ecosystem is to be sustainable.

The second important project has to do with housing supply. Council is acutely aware of the importance of the need for additional housing stock in Griffith. This is a challenge facing every regional centre in NSW and Australia. Council has taken substantial action on this front firstly by adopting a Housing Strategy in 2019. Since then Council has taken action to implement many of the recommendations in the document. The Residential Development Control Plan has been revised to provide additional incentives for affordable housing. Concessions are now applied on Developer Contribution charges where a DA is focused on achieving affordable housing outcomes. Grant funding has been secured from the NSW Government to assist with constructing housing enabling civil works infrastructure in the Collina area. Council has partnered with Argyle Housing to construct additional housing stock in the Pioneer Area, referred to as the “Griffin Green” Project and we have made approaches to several NSW Government Departments seeking partnerships to initiate another housing construction project.

As Mayor I feel proud of what we have achieved in the past financial year.

I have had the privilege of representing the community and working with my fellow Councillors to shape the strategic direction of Council. I thank them all for their support.

Regards,

Councillor Doug Curran Mayor

Message from the General Manager

There has been plenty of activity happening in Griffith during the last 12 months particularly with the uncertainty of COVID slipping into the distant memory. The 2021 Local Government Elections were postponed from September to December (due to the Pandemic) with a mix of six continuing and six first term Councillors elected at Griffith City Council. The new Council hit the ground running with a busy induction program and a revision of the Community Strategic Plan.

Council is always looking for opportunities to partner with other levels of government, not-for-profit organisations and where appropriate the private sector. These partnerships can leverage additional resources to supplement rate payer funds and deliver important infrastructure and other projects for the community. The Griffith Regional Sports Centre is a case in point. This amazing facility, located at the Westend Oval was opened Saturday 29 October 2022.

The Centre incorporates a major extension to the stadium with five additional indoor basketball courts (total of seven courts), associated amenities and seven outdoor netball courts. The Centre also includes a synthetic hockey field, synthetic athletics track, grand stand, floodlighting and associated infrastructure, This $23M project has been jointly funded by Griffith City Council, NSW Government and Federal Government. I am reluctant to signal out any member of staff in my annual report but in this case I must congratulate and thank our Director of Business, Cultural and Financial Services, Mr Max Turner for his enormous contribution to realising this facility. Max has been instrumental during all stages of the project including detailed planning, preparing and submitting grant funding applications and overseeing construction (in association with the Project Management Consultants Altus Group). Thank you sincerely Max. I also take this opportunity to wish you and your family all the very best for the future given your decision to finish up with Council at the end of 2022.

Several other projects have been completed during the last 12 months including: New Telecommunications Tower at Scenic Hill, Hanwood Cycleway (final stage), Jubilee Oval Amenities Building, Pump Track – Olympic Street, Festive Lights – Banna Avenue , Railway Street Car Park (Eastern End), Lake Wyangan Cycleway resurface, New Parks and Gardens Facility (Jensen Road Depot), Barber Road Drainage works. In closing may I again thank the Mayor and all Councillors for committing to the demanding role of a Councillor and to all my staff who do their best every day to serve the community.

Regards, Brett Stonestreet General Manager

Purpose of this report

This report provides an overview of Council’s operational and financial performance during the period 1 July 2021 to 30 June 2022. It focuses on Council’s work and achievements in implementing the strategies detailed in our four year Delivery Program and Operational Plan. These strategies and actions are developed by Council in response to the expectations of the community resulting from extensive community engagement expressed as objectives in the Community Strategic Plan.

These objectives are summarised into four focus areas reflecting the priorities of our community.

These are Leadership, Love the Lifestyle, Growing our City and Valuing our Environment.

The Annual Report showcases a variety of events, programs, services and projects that promote an inclusive, connected, innovative and thriving city that delivers on the needs and expectations of the local community.

This report also contains statutory reporting as prescribed by the Local Government Act 1993 and Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 as well as other legislation for which Council is required to report annually.

1. Welcome

Our Mayor and General Manager provide a welcome and a brief overview of the Annual Report.

2. Introduction

Details our highlights for the year ended 30 June 2022 and a financial summary.

3. Overview

Provides information on our organisation structure and Local Government Area (LGA) profile.

4. Delivery Program Reporting

Summarises how Council performed against financial and strategic objectives and on major projects. Presents major achievements under the four themes of Leadership, Love the Lifestyle, Growing our City and Valuing our Environment that can be found in the Community Strategic Plan, Delivery Program and Operational Plan.

5.

Statutory Information

Statutory reporting is information that is prescribed by the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021.

6.

Financial Statements

Provides the audited Financial Statements of Council for the year ended 30 June 2022. This year, Griffith City Council has been granted an extension of time for the preparation and auditing of the financial statements that form part of the Annual Report. The financial section of the Annual Report will be added and placed on the website following the December 12 2022 extension date.

This report is divided into six sections:

How to read this report

Awards

LGNSW Excellence Awards

Council received two highly commended awards at the 2022 Local Government NSW Excellence Awards.

Council received highly commended for the Griffith Community Centre in the Asset and Infrastructure - Over $1.5 million category and Glow2680 in the Supporting Local Enterprise category.

Winners were announced, Thursday 26 May 2022.

Council was a finalist in the following other categories:

• Stuart McWilliam Stage - in the category Asset and Infrastructure - Under $1.5 million.

• Griffith Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre (GRALC) - 50M Olympic Outdoor Swimming Pool - in the

category Asset and Infrastructure - Over $1.5 million

The Game Changers, Council’s Rural Management Challenge Team, consisting of James Tomarchio, Joe Barbaro, Brittany Everett and Mandy Grewell (Mentor Shireen Donaldson), came home from the 2022 Local Government NSW Excellence Awards with a third place.

Statewide Mutual Risk Management Excellence Awards

In October 2021 Council submitted the Footpath and Shared Cycle Ways Risk Management System into the Statewide Mutual Risk Management Excellence Awards, achieving a Highly Commended award.

Capital Works Projects Snapshot

Griffith Southern Industrial Link Road Strategy

• Bromley/Kidman Way Southern BypassUnderway

Boorga Road/Dickie Road sealing project

• Underway

Griffith CBD Upgrade Program

• Yambil Street Stage 3completed

Affordable Housing Strategy Building Better Regions Rnd 4

• Griffin Green Pioneer Affordable Housing Civil works commenced

Kooyo Street Stage 1

Construction complete

Barber Road Drainage

• Underway

Jubilee Oval

• Amenities Building Stronger Country Communities Rd 2

• Completed

Lake Wyangan and Catchment Rehabilitation Strategy

• Water Reuse projectunderway

• Rehabilitationunderway

• Completed

Griffith Community Centre & Country Universities Centre

• Completed

Collina Infrastructure Works

• Detention Basin, storm water drainage, road improvements, sewer pump station and rising main - underway

Pump Track, Olympic Street

• Completed

Griffith Regional Sporting Precinct

• Westend OvalUnderway

Railway Street Carpark West Local Road & Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Rnd 1 Railway Street Carpark East LRCI Rnd 2

• Completed

Yoogali Culvert upgrade

Financal

Griffith City Council has an annual operating budget in the vicinity of $63M Council remains in a sound financial position.

Grants

Throughout the 2021/22 financial year Council continued to explore funding opportunities to help Griffith realise a range of exciting new events and facilities.

Below is a list of some of the successful grants secured.

Project Grant Funding Secured ($)

Details

Local Roads & Community Infrastructure Phase 3 $2,061,282Kooyoo Street Redevelopment (Street Scapes)

Streets as Shared Spaces Round 2$386,745Activation of Memorial Car Park

Regional Youth Autumn Holiday Break 2022 $10,000EGames2680 (Esports League)

Open Spaces Program: Places to Play 2021/22 $500,000Griffith Mountain Bike Trails

Australia Day 2022 Community Grant$30,000Australia Day activities held at Griffith Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre and Pioneer Park Museum

Creative Capital Minor Works and Equipment Round 1 $200,000Lighting and sound equipment for large scale events at the Community Gardens Stage

Fish Habitat Action Grant 2020/21$8,580Lake Wyangan Fish Habitat Restoration Crown Reserve Improvement Fund 2021-22 $326,233Campbell’s Swamp Boardwalk

Stronger Communities Programme Round 6 $14,999Women’s Land Army Park Upgrades

COVID -19 Recovery Support Program $136,364 Enticknap Park Amenities Block

Tourism Product Development Fund$10,000Refresh and renewal of Griffith Visitors Centre NSW Planning Portal API Grant$80,000Further integration improvements to existing DA Planning Portal Software

Festival of Places Summer Night Fund $15,000Griffith Twilight Markets

Country Passenger Transport Infrastructure Grant Scheme $22,800 Upgrade to various bus shelters around Griffith

Youth Winter Holiday Break 2022 $6,972 Lights, Camera, Action and…. Acrobatics at Griffith Library Youth Week 2022 $3,313 Youth activities

Regional Event Fund 2022 $30,000 per annum for 3 years $90,000 total

Griffith Spring Fest marketing and media campaigns

Riverina Local Lands Services Grant $30,000 Weed Management 2022

Stronger Country Communities Fund $271,485 Upgrade Jubilee Oval kiosk and install new footpath

Australia Sports Commission Grant $50,000 Griffith Regional Sports Centre Gala Open Day

Economic & Organisational Development

Council Election

The Local Government Elections were held on 4 December 2021. Governance coordinated a number of pre-election sessions for candidates. An induction program was developed and implemented for the new Council.

Statutory Reporting

Council is required to undertake its planning and reporting activities in accordance with the Local Government Act 1993 and the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 as well as complying with a number of other Acts and legislation. Council has met all of its statutory governance reporting obligations in a timely manner including Integrated Planning and Reporting, Code of Conduct, Public Interest Disclosures, Government Information Public Access Act and Disclosures of Interest requirements.

Integrated Planning and Reporting

Council prepared an End of Term Report providing an overview of Council’s progression towards the vision articulated in the Community Strategic Plan. This document was presented to the outgoing Council and the new Council and can be viewed on Council’s website.

Extensive community consultation was undertaken to inform a comprehensive review of the Community Strategic Plan which was adopted on 22 March 2022. The new Delivery Program, Operational Plan and Resourcing Strategy documents were developed from the Community Strategic Plan and adopted on 28 June 2022.

Updates on the progress of the implementation of the Actions outlined in the Delivery Program and Operational Plan are provided to Council each quarter.

Review of Policies

The following policies were reviewed in the 2021/22 period:

• Code of Conduct policy

• Code of Meeting Practice policy

• Councillors Payment of Expenses and Provision of Facilities policy

• Community Development policy

• Child Safe policy (new)

• Statements to Media policy

• Council Committees policy

• Twenty-five local policies placed on public exhibition in June 2022 (requiring adoption within 12 months after election.)

• Directorate policy review undertaken for Business Cultural Financial Services. Thirtyone policies placed on public exhibition June 2022.

Council Meetings

Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 7pm in the Council Chambers. Members of the public are invited to attend a Council Meeting in person or view the livestream.

Meetings held

GIPA Applications Committee and Working Group Meetings held

Council Committees

It is the role of Council appointed Committee members to act in consulting, liaison, advisory and promotion roles for the management and development of the relevant facility/activity, for the benefit of the community. Following the 2021 Council Election, the Council Committee structure was reviewed. The new framework consists of the following Committees

• Audit, Risk Improvement Committee

• Cultural Precinct Masterplan Committee

• Disability Inclusion and Access Committee

• Floodplain Management Committee

• Lake Wyangan and Catchment Management Committee

• Memorial Park Gardens Embellishment Committee

• New Cemetery Masterplan Committee

• Pioneer Park Museum Committee

• Traffic Committee

• Local Emergency Management Committee.

Information about each of the above Committees can be viewed on Council’s website.

Community Consultation – Council Café and COG Council Café is held on a monthly basis providing the opportunity for members of the public to raise issues, speak to Council staff and Councillors in a relaxed, informal setting. Governance staff also attended the Riverina Field Days in May 2022 and received welcome feedback and ideas from local community

members and visitors to our City. A recent initiative of the new Council was to introduce Council’s Community Opinion Group (COG) with quarterly meetings being held at different locations throughout the year, particularly focussing on our villages. The first COG was held Tuesday, 5 April at Yoogali.

Local Government Week

Local Government Week was held from 2 to 8 August 2021. Governance staff coordinated activities including Council Café, virtual tours and online information aimed at helping the community learn more about how Council operates. Council provided Book Vouchers to local primary schools and thanked our Council Volunteers for all the time and work they put in to our community.

Internal Audit

Independent reviews of Council’s internal procedures and policies were conducted by Council’s internal auditor as directed by the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee. The following reviews were conducted in 2021/22:

• Fraud Control

• COVID Rules Compliance

• Corporate Credit Cards, Gifts and Benefits, Pecuniary Interest Returns

• Contracts Management

• Grants Program

• Development Assessment.

Website

The Council website has become the main point of contact for the community, with the annual page views: 269,935.

Print Council publishes the weekly newsletter Council Catch Up, both online and in print and delivers it to over 20 locations throughout the City and villages. Along with the website, this will continue to be the focus of communication by Council with the community.

Enews Council Catch Up is reaching on average 2,500 per edition through e-News. Printing of more than 400 copies per week. Social media reaches over 5,000 per week.

Corporate

Social Media

Facebook continues to be a popular medium for engaging with the community. Over the 2021/22 period we had 8,400 followers and Instagram 1,200 followers. Social media continues to be an important communication tool for Council.

Radio

Radio is another popular medium, with the weekly Council call-ins remaining relevant and providing current information.

Community Engagement and Communication Strategy

The Community Engagement and Communication Strategy guides Council’s communication and engagement methods.

Council Cafe

Each month Council Café is held at various locations across the LGA. Residents are invited to join Councillors and staff for a cuppa to let Council know what’s on their mind, with Feedback Forms available.

A range of different items are listed on the ‘menu’ each month for consultation including:

• August 2021: Council Cafe was held at the Griffith City Library during Local Government Week

• September 2021: Main Street Kiosk - Residents were asked about funds to be allocated to the Memorial Gardens and new Art Gallery

• October 2021: Griffith City Library – Vision Statement check in for the Community Strategic Plan

• November 2021: Main Street Kiosk- What’s On Christmas 2021, Plans for Kooyoo Street Redevelopment and Pump Track consultation

• December 2021: Memorial Park - Council Café joined the launch of Glow2680 in Memorial Park

• February 2022: Griffith City Library - Draft Community Strategic Plan (CSP) on exhibition. Small Business Month promoted and Griffith Regional Theatre events promoted

• March 2022: Griffith City Library - End of Term Report presented and subscriber drive for community newsletter, Council Catch Up, commenced

• April 2022: Griffith City Library - Community consultation for events in Griffith undertaken

• May 2022: 13 & 14 May 2022: Riverina Field Days, Griffith Showgrounds – Budget snapshot presented, events consultation, Kooyoo Street Plan, We Love Griffith, Youth Council, new Art Gallery and promotional material handed out from the Library and Visitors Centre

• June 2022: Griffith City Library – Feedback forms and Community Opinion Group (COG) Meeting promoted.

Highlights for Economic Development include:

- Completion of new Griffith Investment Prospectus 2022

- Successful Small Business Month, March 2022

- Western Riverina Connect with Griffith City Council and Leeton Shire Council - Inland Rail Interface Improvement Plan Business Case complete

- 12 x Evolve monthly business newsletters

- Held the first Lunch with the Mayor - special guest Katrina from .id with economic development update

- Supported Griffith Women in Business with a number of events including keynote event and mentorship program

- 40 x Griffith Now Hiring partners registered, 100,000 YouTube video views, 1 million Google ad impressions, 22,000 Google ad clicks

- Council applied for Building Better Regions Fund 6 and NSW Regional Housing Fund to unlock further

Economic Development

housing opportunities. Griffith City Council, Argyle Housing and Federal Government’s Griffin Green project underway including 20 town houses have commenced construction and 42 subdivided lots

- Council sponsored Regional Development Australia (RDA) Riverina Country Change marketing program

- Continued to support RDA Riverina Grow our Own program including new video for school students

- Council, Argyle, TAFE and Local Jobs Program collaborated to develop and provide a free training program to upskill locals to a Certificate 2 in Construction over 16 weeks including work experience at the Griffin Green Project site

- Generations Griffith - School based traineeships and apprenticeships information night hosted with TAFE

- December Retail Business Support Events - Glow 2680 Sidewalk Sale, Star Business Competition, Glow2680 Launch and late night shopping.

Griffith Tourism Hub - Visitor Servicing, Events & Marketing

Despite the negative effects of COVID-19 over the last few years, it has also brought many opportunities as far as tourism and visitation is concerned.

An increase in marketing regional travel, the choice of more bookable experiences and an increase in the products on offer in the gift shop, all aligned with strong demand.

The first Twilight Market was held in March, which kicked off the events calendar for 2022 and the relaunch of the Seasonal What’s On Guides, followed by a very successful Griffith Easter Party weekend with many new events added to the program and all events booked out.

Feedback from retailers that participated in the Sidewalk Sale reported it to be one of the busiest Easter Saturdays in recent years. It’s also great to see Group Travel back in action.

Top 2021/2022 Financial Year accomplishments:

• Everyday Gourmet with Justine Schofield, a series of four shows featuring Griffith, aired on Network 10 October/November 2021

• Visit Griffith Ambassador Program 2022-2024 (Ambassadors increased by 26%)

• New Business Events and Conferencing web page developed and went live with videography and photography to promote business events in Regional areas. Griffith was one of two LGAs chosen in the Riverina Murray region (this was a collaboration with Destination Riverina Murray through a Tourism Australia grant)

• Weekend Sunrise live broadcast from Griffith April 2022

• New Interpretive Display Area completed

• Visit Griffith Facebook increased by 8.55% from last Financial Year and Reach increased by 263.10%.

Visit Griffith Facebook Followers

Youth and Community Development

Throughout the last 12 months, the Community Development Department has played an important role in listening to the needs of the community and partnering with a number of stakeholders for projects and activities.

Consultation with youth through surveys and at local events has given Council insight into what young members of the community are looking for. The last year has seen two new events added including, Griffith’s own E-Sports League Tournament (during Youth Week) and Survival Day. These successful events were inclusive and provided a safe and culturally acceptable space for the community to learn from and enjoy.

Seniors Week in Griffith was an opportunity to join in Morning Melodies at Griffith Regional Theatre, curator talks/train tour at Pioneer Park and free exercise/aqua classes at the Griffith Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre.

Council also supported a number of local organisations through promoting local events on social media platforms and supporting significant

days in the community calendar for awareness days and service programs which don’t have the capacity or reach to do so.

Other achievements included the sponsorship of two medical students through the Bush Bursary Program, ‘Come and Try’ Wheelchair Rugby Day with Canberra Raiders and Intereach, Tambourine Art Studio Youth Week painting session at the Library, Youth ‘Come and Try’ Water Polo Day, Australia Day/Survival Day event and the Harmony Week and Refugee Week Citizenship ceremonies.

Partnerships included, International Women’s Day event at Pioneer Park, Harmony Day partnerships with Multicultural Council, Murrumbidgee Regional High School and Griffith Aboriginal Medical Service Family Fun Day, Yarrawarra Activity Day in partnership with Griffith Local Aboriginal Land Council.

The Community Development Team also supported the GROW pilot program in its initial stages of research in the Griffith area and worked with Rural Australians for Refugees to allocate budget for Refugee Welcome Signs.

Staffing

The total number of Full Time Equivalent Positions (FTEs) as at 30 June 2022, as approved in the organisation structure; 302 (this included term appointments).

Total Employee Salary and Wages (includes allowances, overtime leave payments and terminated employees): $23,807,154.

Service Awards

Each November, Council holds an annual staff function to celebrate employees who have been in Council’s employment for 10, 20 and 25 years. In November 2021, 13 staff members celebrated 10 years of service, 5 celebrated 20 years of service and 3 celebrated 25 years of service.

Seventeen staff members celebrated more than 25 years of employment.

Work Health & Safety & Risk Management Accident & Incident Reporting

This financial year has seen an increase in the reported number of accidents, incidents and near misses. This continues to show that staff are working towards a culture that seeks to identify and control hazards. Council continues its proactive approach through training and development to ensure staff have an understanding of WHS legislation, regulation, codes of practice and to work towards a culture that seeks to identify and control hazards. The information provided to staff regarding potential hazards enables Council to reduce risks and the potential for harm. Council employees have reported 328 incidents/ safety concerns during 2021/22.

Workers Compensation

Council has continued to maintain a low number of Workers Compensation Claims, with a decrease in the number of lost work hours. Council’s Recover at Work Program encourages injured workers to recover at work. This program ensures Council maintains the skills and knowledge of an experienced worker and keeps the employee engaged in the workplace during recovery.

Council continues its proactive approach through training and development in the management of workers compensation to ensure early and safe return to work.

Human Resources and Risk

2019/202020/212021/22 Total number of claims lodged

6 6 2 Total lost work hours 341.501,743726.50

Staff Health & Well Being

Council held a number of health and well-being awareness programs during 2021/2022 which included, Women’s Health Talk, which raised awareness for ovarian, breast, bowel and cervical cancer, Men’s Health Talk about mental health and resilience, health and skin checks, dietitian talk and the promotion of Council’s Employee Assistance Program during RUOK Day. Training & Development Council’s training programs ensure employees are adequately trained to improve workplace safety and meet organisational and legislative requirements. Council is also continuing to “grow our own” for difficult to fill positions by recruiting trainees and apprentices in key areas, such as Civil Engineering, Building Inspection and Plumbing. Council has two School Based Trainees who are undertaking work experience while studying for their Higher School Certificate. Council invested $264,538 on the training, development and education of staff (including apprentices and trainees), during the 2021/22 period.

Council encourages staff to increase their skills by supporting them through Tertiary Education Assistance Policy. Staff gain qualifications including Certificates, Licences and Diplomas. This gives them the opportunity to then apply for other positions within Council.

Information Management

Information Management provides efficient and accurate registration of incoming daily correspondence to Council, along with training, support and advice to all staff on records management best practice and maturity.

In 2021/22, 166,857 records were registered into Council’s electronic document management system, a 19% increase in volume compared to the previous fiscal year.

A number of major Information Management projects were successfully undertaken during 2021/2022, notably:

• Content Manager upgraded from 9.1 to 9.4 on 8 September 2022

• Stage 1 of software integration completed for the NSW Planning Portal which has automated the registering of newly lodged DA documents into Content Manager – Stage 2 has commenced which will see all lodged documents for DA post-consent certificates being automatically registered

• Implementation of electronic sub-folders for DA records to improve discoverability for staff and accessibility and privacy obligations for GIPA requests

• Continuation of in-house digitisation of vital hardcopy property records – files completed are registered and fully-text searchable in Content Manager

• Introduction of online Content Manager training modules to improve staff on-boarding and provide on-demand refresher training to all staff.

Information Technology

Supply chain issues and parts shortages made the annual hardware refresh difficult.

Enterprise resource planning (ERP) review process is ongoing with the application mapping process taking place. Authority upgrade was not available this year as Civica are in the early stages of testing their new product.

The IT review was completed in the reporting period, with areas of focus now identified. A number of software products have now been replaced, allowing Council to better leverage its investment in software and communicate more effectively with stakeholders and customers.

86%

of CRMs closed within service standard

The last financial year continued to reflect COVID downturns, with July 21 to January 2022 seeing cancellations of the Salami Festival and Spring Fest. However, the Museum has welcomed back events with gusto, with the rise in numbers from visitation through events and community use functions reflecting this. From February to June 2022 the Museum recorded an increase of 129%. Action Day was a large part of this with over 2,000 patrons attending.

The Salami Festival and Spring Fest went ahead in 2022 and these statistics will be reflected in the next Annual Report.

Regional Tourism has seen a slight decrease now that no restrictions are in place for travelling. Total visitation is still reduced from previous highs pre COVID-19 but building slowly with nearly 10,000 this annual reporting period.

The key focus of the Museum is community use with the aim to engage more diverse communities and

Griffith Pioneer Park Museum

will continue doing so with the opening of the newly renovated Baptist Church. The gardens and grounds have received greater attention and this has resulted in a picturesque backdrop to the amazing buildings at the Museum.

Action Day 2.3K

2.9K

Facebook followers

Total visitors 8.2K

Griffith City Library

Library services and programs continue to grow and evolve to meet the needs of our diverse community. As well as providing traditional collections of books, magazines, DVDs and audiobooks the Library introduced a new collection of hand puppets that has been extremely popular with younger members and families.

Despite the challenges of COVID-19, the Library continued to produce high quality, educational and entertaining programs, events and activities. Highlights of the year included a transformation of the children’s area into a Christmas winter wonderland for Christmas family photos, launch of

1000 Books Before School – a program designed to increase literacy skills and foster a love of reading, HSC Forum, Digital Literacy Workshops and Easter Rhyme Time in Memorial Park.

The Library is a place for everyone to enjoy, whether it is borrowing books, attending programs and events, researching family history or using the free computer and internet service, the Library strives to provide something for everyone and to be accessible to all members of the community.

Griffith Regional Art Gallery

Griffith Regional Art Gallery tailors its annual exhibitions and public program to appeal to an extensive and diverse range of interests in the visual arts and crafts.

Exhibitions are curated from many sources such as local artists, including group and solo exhibitions, collection based exhibitions and larger touring exhibitions.

The most attended exhibitions in the 2021/22 financial year included, Ken Done: Paintings You Probably Haven’t Seen, 2022 community art exhibition Audio Visions and Portrait of Australia: Through the Lens of Australia Geographic from the

National Museum of Australia.

During the August 2021 COVID-19 lock-down, the Gallery kept patrons remotely engaged by digitally mapping a virtual Gallery with an exhibition by Wiradjuri Artists Alan and Cory McKenzie.

The Art Gallery continues to grow the skills of local artists and crafts people with a variety of lessons and public programs such as art lectures, weaving workshops, painting and watercolour workshops, photography and digital art. Young people are engaged via after school art classes and school holiday workshops.

24

Exhibitions 10 Visitors 3,536 Public programs

Griffith Regional Theatre

As was the case in the previous year, the second half of 2021 saw shows cancelled or rescheduled due to COVID-19.

Many of the end-of-year local school and dance concerts were able to go ahead however, albeit with vaccination requirements enforced.

2022 has been a better year, with a return to 100% capacity and most performances able to proceed. With shows keen to get on the road again, the Theatre now has a full calendar of performances.

Major shows have included Amy Shark, Jon Stevens, Human Nature, the Robertson Brothers, the Sydney

Symphony Orchestra, the Australian Opera, with many more big names to come such as the Royal Czech Ballet, Guy Sebastian and Consentino.

Thanks to patrons and members who stuck by the Theatre through it all and are returning in droves, and of course Season Sponsors – Griffith City Volkswagen, who have been welcomed back on board for the next three years.

Live performance is alive and well in Griffith and Theatre staff cannot wait to catch up again.

Griffith Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre

Members of the community and various professional and community groups used the Griffith Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre (GRALC) facilities over the last 12 months.

Some of the highlights include:

• Hosted the NSW Country Regional Swimming Championships in January 2022 with over 350 swimmers from around the State attending. Officials and Dignitaries from Swimming NSW attended, with very positive feedback received about GRALC and in particular the 50 metre pool

• A very successful Come and Try Day held to celebrate the first anniversary of the 50 metre pool with various activities including Water Polo and exhibition races taking place

• Survival Day activities held on 26 January with over 800 attendees

• A local Physiotherapist continues to offer Hydrotherapy several times per week.

• Sporting groups including Griffith Swimming Club and local clubs from every football code

• All local schools used the centre for school sport, swimming lessons and swimming carnivals, while the Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Support Group utilised the pools for physical therapy.

Major expenditure in 2021/22 included:

• Replacement of the indoor complex water heater

• Re-marking and overall clean up of the Centre’s carpark

• New pool vacuums.

Fitness Club memberships have increased during the year and Splash Swim School enrolments are beginning to return to Pre-COVID levels. These, coupled with the positivity around the 50 metre pool, is enabling GRALC to be seen as good place for families to visit. Throughout the year, GRALC operated within the budget set by Council.

Asset Management and Geographical Information Systems

Over the past 12 months, the Asset Management team has worked to improve Council’s asset management and geographic information systems and processes. Some of the major projects completed during the 2021/22 period include a review of Council’s Bushfire Prone Land mapping for the NSW Rural Fire Service, Desktop valuations of all Council infrastructure assets, and a revision of Council’s Asset Management Plans.

Work has also commenced on a major overhaul of IntraMaps and Council’s Geographic Information System.

This includes changing coordinates of all datasets from the GDA94 Datum to GDA2020 Datum to allow for improved accuracy of GPS locations.

Over the past 12 months Griffith City Council has been working to deliver the new Griffith Regional Sports Centre, a state-of-the art, compliant regional and state standard facility.

The project primarily delivers new facilities for basketball, netball, hockey and athletics, creating an inclusive regional sports hub in the Western Riverina. The redevelopment has seen Westend Stadium, first built in 1979, completely transformed. The main stadium has been refurbished with a new roof and airconditioning, new toilet amenities re-developed and reception into function rooms. A new building has further extended the Centre to now feature an additional five indoor basketball courts, adaptable for netball, indoor hockey, badminton, wheelchair

Westend Sports Stadium

rugby and volleyball.

The Centre now offers seating for over 1,000 people, change rooms, offices, meeting rooms, a canteen and public amenities.

Outside, the new complex boasts seven all weather netball courts under lights and a new grandstand to provide spectator comfort for the outside facilities.

In addition, a synthetic athletics track allows local athletes to train and compete on a compliant and high-performing track and an artificial turf hockey pitch provides a high quality all-weather surface for players.

Sustainable Development

Development Applications

361 certificates issued - 195 construction - 144 occupation

358 Development Applications processed

$101.5M Development Applications value

Applicant and Description Amount

Alterations and additions to Griffith Ex- Servicemen's Club Inc 8,715,297

Twenty (20) multi dwelling unit development (town houses) & strata - Housing NSW 5,363,268

New Generation Boarding House development - Champion 2004 4,313,540

Intensive Livestock Agriculture Expansion - 4 New Poultry Sheds - Ballingal Estate Pty Ltd3,930,000 38 lots torrens title subdivision including 32 single dwelling lots - Griffith City Council 3,100,000

Alteration/Addition Trade Centre & existing Hall Building Marian Catholic College 3,000,000

Installation of 18 Frost Control Fans in an existing Almond Orchard 2,659,800

Internal construction & use for specialist medical centre - Kooringal Ave 2,623,280

Multi-dwelling housing development of 12 units & strata subdivision - Couch Rd 2,300,000

New Commercial Premises - Establishment of Highway Service Centre - Thorne Road2,200,000

Installation of 29 Frost Control fans for frost protection of crops - Nericon 2,074,600

New School - Western Riverina Community School - Kookora St, DPIE - Crown Land 2,000,000

Multi-dwelling housing & Torrens Title subdivision - Edon St Yoogali 1,545,500

Alteration/Addition to existing Commercial Premises - Collier & Miller 1,500,000

New Commercial Premises comprising of four (4) attached - Willandra Ave 1,200,000 Subdivision of land, Industrial development - 98-100 Mackay Ave 1,102,988

Stage 5 - Farm 10 - Concept - Stg 1 - 17 Lot Torrens Title Subdivision 1,052,000

Proposed Unit Development (8 x 2 Bedroom Units) - Coolah St 1,000,000

2 Lot subdivision & construction of food and drink premises & signage - 27 Banna Ave975,700

22 x Lot torrens title subdivision - Sidlow Rd 858,000

Social housing, admin, therapy and 6 moveable dwellings 830,000

Griffith City Council is committed to improving the health of Lake Wyangan and developing recreational opportunities for the community, with the first priority to improve water quality.

Ongoing monitoring of Lake Wyangan water quality was conducted throughout the year, including inlake sampling and sampling of the water quality parameters of water entering Lake Wyangan.

Council has recently engaged with Chemiplas Australia Pty Ltd and Earth Science Laboratories for

Environment and Health

Council has a responsibility to look after the health and safety of the community. Some of the ways Council does this is through public health inspections. A total of 224 food business inspections were completed for the 2021/22 period, of these 112 were high risk, 22 medium risk, 6 temporary premises and 19 mobile premises.

Some of the other tasks undertaken include:

• 45 chemical and 35 microbiological water quality samples taken and analysed from local Griffith Public Pools, City Park Splash Pad and Motel pools operated for public use

• ‘NSW Arbovirus and Mosquito Monitoring Program’ delivered within the Griffith Local Government Area. Undertook 32 separate mosquito trappings and extracted 210 Arbovirus detection samples from a flock of 15 Sentinel Chickens (December – May) for Arbovirus detection

Griffith Airport

Lake Wyangan

treatment of the North Lake and Alga Enviro Australia Pty Ltd for treatment of the South Lake.

Council is confident that the treatment will address the Blue Green Algae problem successful enough to restore the Lake’s recreational value.

Council’s Urban Design team is also working on a Master Plan that will attract the use of the lake area and promote tourism for Griffith.

• Allocated 4 cooling towers with a unique identifying number (UINs) and received 43 Risk Management Plans (RMPs) in line with legislative changes to legionella control within the Public Health Act 2010 and Public Health Regulation 2012

• As part of a regional Resource Sharing Alliance Agreement with Hay Shire Council, Griffith City Council delivered 26 inspections of High and Medium Risk food businesses, 8 chemical analysis of motel pools and 5 skin penetration inspections completed within the Hay Shire Council.

• A total of 28 inspections completed for Skin Penetration premises and 3 Mortuary inspections in line with the Public Health Act 2010.

Griffith Regional Airport operates in accordance with the acts and regulations from Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and Department of Home Affairs - Aviation and Maritime Security (AMS) Division. The aviation industry was heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic with reduction in flight movements and passenger numbers. However, there has been an increase in flights and passenger activity since restrictions lifted.

Regular Public Transport (RPT) flights operating at Griffith Regional Airport are REX Airlines and Qantas.

Customer Service

Customer Service has adapted to delivering quality service to the community in a post COVID-19 lockdown world. Services are continuing to be delivered online, but also a return to face-to-face service delivery was welcomed this year.

Phone Calls

Customer Service received more than 32K calls for the year regarding the Council services listed in the graph below:

Service Levels

The aim is to provide a quality service with minimal waiting time. 88% of calls were answered within 20 seconds. 75% of calls were resolved by a Customer Service Officer, with no need to transfer to other departments.

Type

Compliance - Griffith Pound and Rehoming Centre

Griffith Pound and Rehoming Centre continues to work closely with rescue groups to ensure the best outcomes for impounded cats and dogs, including re-uniting lost animals with their owners and successfully re-homing animals that enter the facility.

In the 2021/22 financial year, the Griffith Pound and Rehoming Centre saw over 600 cats and over 450 dogs come into the facility. This is an increase from last financial year. Adoptions of dogs and cats commenced to the public earlier this year.

The Griffith Pound and Rehoming Centre has had a number of improvements made to the operation of the facility which included:

• New cat enclosures can hold up to 12 additional cats which provide cats in care more space

• Now live on the Pet Rescue website. This was implemented as there is not enough interest

on local media avenues to rehome locally. Good feedback has been received and many upcoming adoptions have been arranged with loving families both in NSW and interstate

• Teamed up with Friends of Griffith Pound and their social media platforms to assist with advertising. This has been useful especially when locating lost and missing animals and reuniting missing pets with their families.

The recently appointed Animal Rehoming Officer has established a connection with the public, rescue groups and local Veterinarians using their high quality customer service. The welfare of animals at the Centre remains a top priority.

600 + 450+ Planning

Griffith City Council planning staff have been busy with a number of strategic planning projects to support growth and the provision of affordable housing, including:

• Finalisation of detailed design work and contribution planning for the Lake Wyangan Growth Area

• A master planning exercise to develop land to the east of Hanwood Village has commenced. Consultants have been appointment to prepare the master plan

• In the process of preparing a Large Lot Residential Strategy

• Preparing Planning Proposals to rezone lands identified in the Griffith Local Strategic Planning Statement is in process

• Construction for the Griffin Green Affordable Housing Project has commenced

• Revising Bushfire Prone Land mapping has been finalised

• Council has continued the use of the NSW Planning Portal for Development Applications and progressed with the Post Consent applications submitted via the Portal

• Council implemented a structured vetting process and is continuing the integration of the mandatory portal with Council’s systems

• Council has formalised a S138 driveway process which is lodged via the NSW Planning Portal.

Infrastructure and Operations

Roads, Construction and Maintenance

Construction Status 2021/22 $

RMS Main Roads - Ordered Work (Kidman Way, Irrigation Way, Burley Griffin Way)

Ongoing505,501.09

Griffith Southern Industrial Link – Stage 5b In Progress1,450,452.69

Griffith Southern Industrial Link – Stage 6a In Progress19,879.20

Griffith Southern Industrial Link – Stage 6b Completed79,409.04

Jones Road Causeway - Upgrade Completed311,382.12

Construct & Seal Boorga & Dickie Roads

In Progress2,362,519.36

Construct roundabout intersection of Murrumbidgee & Thorne In Progress84,464.94

Upgrade CBD roads, drainage, kerb & gutter (Yambil Street) In Progress2,739,762.40

Upgrade CBD roads, drainage, kerb & gutter (Kooyoo Street) In Progress738,912.89

Construct Carpark - 69 Railway Street Completed177,395.77

Construct Carpark - 53 Railway Street Completed614,984.90

Construct Carpark - Olympic Street Completed145,452.50

Construct Carpark - Jubilee Oval Completed184,443.10

Construct & Seal Barber Road

In Progress372,103.01

Construct & Upgrade Thorne Road In Progress127,384.89

Guardrail Construction Ongoing62,657.28

Kerb & Guttering Construction Ongoing174,287.64 Citrus Road construction (contribution) In Progress100,549.09

Griffin Green Roads infrastructure In Progress 226,498.40 Road sealing contribution Completed12,366.98

Total 1 0,490,407

Maintenance Status 2021/22 $

Sealed Roads - Local, Regional (+ ancillary works - K&G and linemarking)Ongoing1,991,771.16

Unsealed Roads - Urban & Rural (including roadside vegetation control)Ongoing2,119,814.59

Reseals - Local & Regional Roads Ongoing1,376,503.56

Additional Resealing Program Rural Roads funded by R2R Ongoing223,321.52

Gravel Resheeting Ongoing1,162,946.48

Local Roads Callouts Ongoing35,653.22

RMS Main Roads - maintenance and Main Road callout Ongoing445,195.51

Total 7,355,206

Street Lighting 2021/22 $

Street Lighting - new (Including Griffin Green Infrastructure) 429,590.96

Street Lighting - maintenance 467,339.40 Total 896,930

Traffic & Safety, Footpaths and other works, Drainage (including traffic facilities, emergency callouts, bus bays, parking areas)

Status 2021/22 $ Road Callouts – including accidents/incidents & grape spills Ongoing35,653.22

Carparks maintenance, reseals and resheets Ongoing367.14

Bus Shelter – new & maintenance Ongoing832.64

Traffic facilities (signage & line marking), & miscellaneous works Ongoing237,814.87 Total 274,668

Footpath & Other Works Construction and maintenance of shared paths & footpaths

Status 2021/22 $

Footpath & CBD path construction (Pedestrian Bridge Merrigal Street)Ongoing297,725.32 Footpath & CBD path maintenance Ongoing34,739.43

Hanwood Cycleway Completed85,907.91

Lake Wyangan Path Completed254,619.16

Sidlow Merrigal Street Path Commenced 60,411.42

Griffin Green Ongoing15,120.86 Total 748,524

Drainage

Status 2021/22 $

Drainage maintenance & weed control Ongoing168,868

Drainage improvements /replacements Ongoing124,574

Drainage improvements /Hanwood In Progress295,480

Drainage improvements /Yoogali Culvert In Progress349,494

Drainage improvements /Griffin Green In Progress412,009

Drainage improvements /Detention Basin upgrades In Progress3,733 Total 1,354,159 21,119, 895

Parks, Reserves and Playgrounds

Major achievements for the 2021/22 financial year include:

• Completion of the new Pump Track in Olympic Street

• Completion of the new Exercise Equipment at the Women’s Land Army Park, Hanwood

• Installation of a new basketball hoop at Yenda Memorial Park

• Upgrade of Training Lights at Wade Park, Yenda

• Upgrade of four Picnic Shelters at the Lake Wyangan Picnic Area.

Cemeteries

Cemetery achievements include:

• Construction of the new LAWN - 6 section at the Griffith Cemetery

• Completion of additional Lawn beams at the Yenda Cemetery

• Completion of a Tree Safety Audit at the Griffith Cemetery.

Fleet Operations

Council’s plant and vehicles are kept in good condition and are regularly maintained. Council has an extensive maintenance program to ensure that maintenance is carried out and vehicles and plant items are safe to operate.

Council has a long-term plant replacement program which aims to replace plant and vehicles before these items reach their economic lifespan.

Construction of the Parks and Gardens Administration and Storage building at the Griffith City Council Depot has been completed.

Biosecurity Weed Control

The 2021/22 season was a challenging time due to environmental and climatic conditions, however the inspections of high-risk pathways such as highways and channels, drains, creeks, ornamental dams/ ponds and storage dams looking for priority weeds, continued.

The discovery of new outbreaks of priority weeds not indigenous to the area meant that they were prioritised, with grants applied for control work to be undertaken.

Normal weed control was difficult to achieve for staff and contractors due to the environmental and climatic conditions, however a lot work was carried out successfully and follow-up work is an ongoing commitment.

Riverina Field Days was held again in May this year in very wet and trying conditions. Despite the rain, crowd numbers remained high. Council’s Biosecurity Weeds Officer hosted the Biosecurity Weeds Tent, inviting other Weeds Officers from the surrounding Local Government Areas and Local Land Services officers to participate in helping the public understand the importance of controlling weeds.

New vehicles and plant purchased during the 2021/22 financial year included:

17 x Passenger and light commercial/SUV vehicles, 2 small Gen sets, 2 x Vacuum Excavator units, 4 mowers, 3 Tractors, 1 x 3.6 Tonne Mini Excavator, 1 Valve Exercising Trailer and 1 lighting tower.

There is a large amount of plant and equipment still on order which has been delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Biosecurity weeds tent was attended by good numbers of people interested in weed control, to which the weed officers gladly responded with advice and literature in the form of books and pamphlets. Control measures included the following weeds:

• Kidney Leaf Mud Plantain (Heteranthera reiniformis)

• Alligator Weed (Alternanthera philoxeroides)

• Coolatai Grass (Hyparrhenia hirta)

• Paterson’s Curse (Echium plantagineum)

• Bridal Creeper (Asparagus asparagoides)

• St John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum)

• African Boxthorn (Lycium ferocissimum)

• Tiger pear (Opuntia aurantiaca)

• Prickly Pear (Opuntia species)

Prickly Pear around Scenic Hill and Scenic Hill Drive has reduced with the help of bush walkers. Further control work is planned. A small grant was awarded for the removal of Prickly Pear located near the old incinerator.

Yambil Street

Construction works for the Yambil Street upgrade continued throughout the 2021/22 financial year. The Stage 3 works were consistent with the previous two stages in Yambil Street, but also included a geofabric layer and subsoil drainage system under the road as recommended in an independent geotechnical report of this stage. This additional work did extend the timeframe for the Stage 3 works with the northern travel lane of Yambil Street Stage 3 re-opened to traffic on 6 September 2021 and the southern side on Thursday 23 December 2021. Final footpath works on the southern side and centre lane gardens were completed by late February 2022. A new roundabout with a centre garden was also installed in Stage 3 at the Daines Street intersection and a new pedestrian crossing with centre gardens was installed near the Don Isles Car Park. The green environment provided by the footpath gardens and centre lane trees offers a relaxed atmosphere which

has been appreciated by the public especially when they take advantage of the footpath seating for a rest break. The improved stormwater drainage system in the upgraded stages of Yambil Street was clearly evident during extremely heavy downpours where surface water was quickly and efficiently dealt with.

In Stage 3, the Don Isles Car Park garden is currently being upgraded and will include a small garden and paved area with seating. A new stormwater pipeline connected to the Yambil Street underground drainage system is also being installed through the Don Isles car park to Banna Lane to relieve some of the stormwater runoff down Banna Lane.

Stage 4 works, from Daines Street to Kookora Street, are expected to commence early 2023 after the completion of the Kooyoo Street reconstruction.

Urban Water Supply

Griffith City Council continues to supply high quality potable water in compliance with the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines. During 2021/22 Griffith Water Treatment Plant (GWTP) produced over 5,967 ML of drinking water for the City’s supply.

A complete refurbishment of sand filters, refurbishment and replacement of a number of auxiliary components of the plant was carried out. Other work included replacement of blower, Hayes Lease outlet screen, isolation gates at flocculation inlet, turbidity meters at DAF, turbidity meters sand filters, penstock between DAF and filters.

During the 2021/22 financial year, Council also:

• Installed 129 new water meters

• Replaced 698 water meters

• Installed 35 new Backflow Prevention Devices (BFPD) on medium and high hazard connections

• Replaced 14 BFPD during regular maintenance

• Installed over 230m length of trunk water mains and 230m length of water maims to service new developments

• Renewed over 3695m length of existing water mains

• Renewed over 500m length of existing raw water mains

• Refurbished filters, filter inlet channel, filter

valves and actuators at the GWTP

• Refurbished Yenda Water Treatment Plant (YWTP) raw water pump station.

• Extensive chemical trials/testings for Coagulants were carried out to ensure the water quality from GWTP meets NSW Health requirements at all times.

Council continued to renew, service, and maintain water assets such as, water mains, pressure relief valves, hydrants and pumping stations to meet the standard levels of service and to ensure the quality and protection of the drinking water supply.

Council continued providing water rebates on water saving devices including a $20 rebate each for shower roses and a $50 rebate each for dual flush toilet suites.

Council is committed to providing water supply services to the customer as per their need and requirements in a sustainable manner.

698

Water Meters replaced

Griffith Livestock Marketing Centre

Sheep sales at the Griffith Livestock Marketing Centre totalled 391,114 during 2021/22, down 13,942 from the previous year.

Council continued to improve the Centre’s operations in accordance with its 10-year improvement plan to

ensure that it could offer the region’s livestock sellers and agents a high quality marketing facility.

These enhancements included improvements to shade structures for sheep yards and concreting of sheep pens.

Sewerage

Council continued operation of Griffith Water Reclamation Plant (GWRP), Yenda Sewage Treatment Plant (YSTP) and Bilbul Sewage Treatment Plant (BSTP) as per the EPA guidelines.

During the 2021/22 financial year, GWRP treated sewage from Griffith, Lake Wyangan, Hanwood, and Yoogali catchments and produced over 2,401 ML of a high quality effluent of which 172 ML was used on site as a recycled water, and the YSTP treated over 29 ML of sewage from Yenda village as per the Environmental Protection Authority guidelines.

Also during the 2021/22 financial year, Council:

• Installed over 1500m of gravity sewer mains to service new sub-divisions, mainly Collina

• Relined over 300m of sewer gravity mains

Flood Mitigation

Following adoption of Griffith Main Drain J and Mirrool Creek Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan (FRMS&P) in September 2015, Council prioritised flood mitigation measures recommended in the FRMS&P through the Floodplain Management process and completed the following flood mitigation projects:

Yenda

• Installation of flood warning devices at Barellan Road bridge site and Yenda East Mirrool Regular (EMR) site

• Integration of the flood warning system into Bureau of Meteorology ’s flood forecasting system

• Establishment of a set of EMR Emergency Breaching Protocols and Decision Support Framework for the management of Mirrool Creek flood waters at the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Main Canal East Mirrool Regulator site

• Construction of automated floodgates at the East Mirrool Regulator (EMR) site.

Yoogali

• Construction of an additional culvert at Bosanquet - McCormack Road junction

• Construction of additional culvert at Burley

• Replaced over 450m of sewer rising mains

• Installed 5 grinder pumps to service new developments, and

• Continued maintenance and replacement of existing grinder pumps.

Council continued to renew, service, and maintain sewer assets, for example, sewer mains, and sewage pumping stations to meet the standard levels of service and to ensure the protection and the reliability of the sewerage system.

Council is committed to providing sewerage services to the customer as per their need and requirements in a sustainable manner.

Griffin Way – McCormack Road junction

• Construction of levee along McCormack Road and raising of Burley Griffin Way from railway line to McCormack road has been planned to commence in 2024.

Hanwood

• Construction of a Stormwater pump and associated pipe work has been awarded. The work is scheduled to be completed in 2022/23.

• Construction of levee along DC DA and DC HANDEPOT drainage channels, and raising of Kidman Way has been awarded. The work is scheduled to be completed by December 2023.

Council provides the community with a kerbside collection service for both domestic waste and dry recyclables.

For those residents in the community who do not have access to the kerbside collection of dry recyclables, Council has an ongoing commitment to providing residents with the opportunity to recycle by subsidising drop-off bins at Griffith Recycling located in Hams Street, Griffith.

In the 2021/22, financial year 2,748 residents took advantage of the ‘Dump For Free’ weekend. The figure was an increase from the previous year. There was also an increase in the amount of dry

Waste Management

recyclables collected in the kerbside pick-up and a decrease in waste product recycled from the landfill due to COVID restrictions. This product has been stockpiled on site ready for removal.

Council is currently undertaking the development of the existing quarry into the new landfill site and is in the planning phase of the closure and rehabilitation of the existing landfill.

There were a number of large capital works projects completed in this financial year, ensuring that the Waste Management Centre continues to meet the guidelines set out by the Environment Protection Authority.

tonnes diverted from landfill

651 tonnes of domestic waste to landfill

9,175 tonnes of kerbside recycling collected

1,162

residents used ‘dump for free’

2,748 tonnes of waste processed

35,000

Road Safety

Council continued its commitment to road safety across the region by recently reviewing a four year funding agreement (until June 30, 2025) with Transport for NSW under the Local Government Road Safety Program.

The partnership acknowledges Council is well placed to plan, implement and deliver relevant localised road safety projects within the community with the view of reducing road trauma.

The four year Road Safety Action Plan 2021/222024/25, which was reviewed in March, addresses road safety issues.

The Griffith LGA had a reduction in serious injury road crashes across the 2021/22 financial year.

The LGA also remained fatality free since February 2021 (18 months).

Council’s Road Safety and Traffic Officer delivers road safety projects targeting areas such as speeding, safe interaction around heavy vehicles, rural/remote roads, learner and senior driver safety, as well as undertaking Road Safety Audits to identify safety deficiencies on the road network which then allows for corrective engineering actions to be implemented to improve road user safety.

Council continues to urge road users to take responsibility for their actions as everybody has a part to play to ensure our roads are safe.

Community Vision

Our community vision is: Griffith is a thriving and innovative regional capital with a vibrant lifestyle and diverse economy. We embrace our community, heritage, culture and environment.

The vision for Griffith is designed to encourage commitment to our future and a sense of common purpose and responsibility. It reflects the kind of community we will be in 2032.

This vision will be achieved through the implementation of the strategies based on the four core themes, also known as the Quadruple Bottom Line, of our Community Strategic Plan 2022-2032. Those themes are:

• Leadership

• Loving our Lifestyle

• Growing our City

• Valuing our Environment

These themes are clearly interwoven and impact upon each other. They are the cornerstone for our community’s progress and success. Overall, it is the people of our community that makes us unique. It is important our vision contains quality of life, prosperity and connectivity.

Community Values

Our values underpin the direction we will take to achieve our community’s vision. These same values will guide the way we work together as a community. On behalf of the community it represents, Council will be guided by the following principles:

Trust

We will ensure decisions are based on clear evidence and information. Through this process Council will be answerable to the communities and the people of Griffith.

Liveable

We will take care that our growth and development is ecologically sustainable to provide for future generations.

Equity

We will ensure that services delivered to our community are appropriate, relevant and accessible. We will strive to improve everyone’s ability to access new and existing services by developing ways to include those with a diverse range of needs.

Collaborative

We will actively involve the people of Griffith to contribute to planning the future of Griffith.

Communication

We will keep community members informed and seek their views on what we are doing.

Partnership

We will work together with the community and other partners in business and government to achieve our vision for Griffith.

Producing almost 1/3 of Australia's Citrus including; oranges, lemons, mandarins, lemons and grapefruit

Organisation Structure

The Economic and Organisational Development Directorate is responsible for the following functions:

Tourism

Economic Development

Youth & Community Development

Festivals & Events

Marketing

Media / Communications

Human Resources Management

Occupational Health & Safety

Risk Management

Government Information Public Access Act (GIPAA)

The Sustainable Development Directorate is responsible for the following functions:

Development Application (DA) Assessment

Property Management

Strategic Planning

Infrastructure Plans

Land Use Planning

Heritage

Transport Plans

Recreation Plans

Environment

Public Health

Food Safety

Planning & Environmental Compliance

Social Planning

The Business Services Directorate is responsible for the following functions:

Financial Planning

Purchasing/ Procurement

Grants Coordination

Investments

Rates & Water Billing

Asset Management

Geographical Information Systems (GIS)

Griffith Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre (GRALC)

West End Stadium

Regional Theatre

Art Gallery

Library – including Western Riverina Community Library

Private Hospital

Pioneer Park

The Infrastructure and Operations Directorate is responsible for the following functions:

Emergency Management

Sports Grounds

Parks & Landscapes

Noxious Weeds

Cemetery

Fleet

Depot Operations

Workshop

Store

Roads Construction and Maintenance

Roads & Maritime Services (RMS) Works

Drainage Maintenance & Construction

The Utilities Directorate is responsible for the following functions:

Survey, Design & Drafting Services

Solid Waste Management

Recycle Collection

Trade Waste

Landfill Operations

Weighbridge & Quarry

Water & Wastewater

Saleyards

Flood Mitigation

Road Safety

General Manager Director

Shireen Donaldson

Phil Harding

Max Turner

Phil King

Graham Gordon

Council delivers a wide range of day-to-day services to our local community - residents, businesses and visitors. These are listed below.

Business,

Draft

Long Term Financial

Delivery Program 2022-2026 & Operational Plan 2022-23

Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).

Evolve Griffith – Economic Development Strategy

Griffith Housing Strategy Western Riverina Economic Development Strategy

Community

Workforce

Information Management

• Application Control - Electronic Document & Records Management System

• Corporate Information Management

• Legal Docs, Tenders & Contract Administration

• Records Disaster Recovery Plan

• Records Management Compliance

• Records Management Training & Support

• Records Risk Register

• Application Control

• Business Continuity Plan

• Disaster Recovery Plan

• Help Desk

• Information Technology ManagementCommunications

• Information Technology ManagementHardware

• Information Technology ManagementSoftware

Tourism

• Community Engagement, Communication, Liaison and Advocacy

• Festival and Event Liaison and Coordination

• Marketing and Promotion of Griffith and region

• Tourism Product Development and Operator Liaison

• Visitor Information Centre - Income and Promotion

• Visitor Servicing

Visit Griffith - Destination Tourism Plan

Overland Flow Flood Study (2010) Aerodrome Overland Flow Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan (2011) Aerodrome

Environment and Health

• Environmental Compliance

• Environmental Education

• Environmental Planning

• Environmental Services and Projects

• Food & Skin Penetration Premises Services

• Public Health Services and Compliance

Lake Wyangan and Catchment Management Strategy

Onsite Sewage Management Strategy

Planning and Compliance

• Crown Land Management

• Development Assessment

• Development Control

• Land Use Planning and Controls

• Planning and Environmental compliance

• Planning Certificates

• Property Services (Leases & Licences)

• S.7.12 Planning

• Strategic Planning

• Subdivisions

Urban Design and Strategy

• Project Design and Management

• Strategy Development

Griffith Local Strategic Planning Statement

Griffith Land Use Strategy

Griffith Local Environmental Plan 2014

Griffith Housing Strategy

Large Lot Residential Supply & Demand Analysis and Strategy

Lake Wyangan Village Plan

Griffith Residential Development Control Plan

Griffith Community Participation Plan

Sewerage Development Servicing Plan No. 1

Water Supply Development Servicing Plan No. 1

CBD Strategy

Utilities

Department Service Strategies and Plans

Quarry

Engineering Design & Approvals

• Management of the Quarry

• Project Design and Management

• Strategy Development

• Development Engineering

• Floodplain Management

• Survey, Design and Drafting

• Traffic & Transport - Engineering

• Traffic & Transport - Planning

• Traffic & Transport - Road Safety & Education

Griffith Heavy Vehicle Strategy

Waste Services

• Solid Waste – Collection

• Solid Waste - Management (Landfill)

Water & Wastewater Services

• Wastewater - Griffith Water Reclamation Plant

• Wastewater - Reticulated Disposal

• Water - Quality

• Water and Wastewater Asset Maintenance & Construction

• Water Supply - Griffith Water Treatment Plant

• Water Supply - Potable & Raw Reticulated

Asset Management Plan for Water

Asset Management Plan for Sewer

Water Supply Development Servicing Plan

Sewerage Development Servicing Plan

Strategic Business Plan for Water Supply & Sewerage Services

Council’s Community Strategic Plan was developed around four themes: Leadership, Love the Lifestyle , Valuing our Environment and Growing our City

Develop an engaged and connected community

Provide clear and transparent communication to the community.

Provide a diverse range of mediums to communicate with the community.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

1.1.1.1 Ensure regular communication provided through adopted measures.

Number of COGs issued.

Number of Media Releases vs % coverage.

Number Social Media engagements

Facebook and Instagram.

Number of Social Media followers Facebook and Instagram.. Minimum of 10 Community Catch ups per quarter.

Provide interactive websites for all Council facilities.



50 Council Newsletters sent via email, 49 printed across the 2021/22 Financial Year. Printed editions left at over 20 locations across the LGA. Media releases sent out 174 with 100% coverage across several platforms.

Social media followers continue to grow, with Facebook being the preferred platform of our users.

Facebook Followers: 8,400 Instagram Followers: 1,250

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

1.1.2.1 Review of current website design, functionality and content.

Number of website hits across the organisation. 

New site rolled out during 2020/21.

269,935 website hits across griffith.nsw.gov.au with 140,886 sessions via 76,053 users during 2021/22.

Provide opportunities for the community to interact with Council and staff.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

1.1.3.1 Provide Committees, Working Groups to enable community input to Council services and facilities.

1.1.3.2 Maintain an active social media presence; provide Workshops, interactive meetings and community engagement sessions in accordance with

Number of Committee and Working Group recommendations to Council.



New endorsed Committee Structure fully implemented, with Meetings commenced.

Number of community engagement sessions per quarter.



Council's Social Media presence continues to grow and allow for more communication. Followers have grown in the 2021/22 Financial Year across both Instagram and Facebook, with LinkedIn used to promote Council projects.

Council's Reach on Social Media is also growing, with Facebook reach being 216,757 and Instagram reaching 9,503 accounts during the Financial Year. The Council Catch Up produced every week, delivered to subscribers’ inboxes,

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

the Community Engagement Strategy.

Inform community of Council decisions.

printed and left at over 20 locations, and posted to social media to maximise our local reach.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

1.1.4.1 Council and Committee Agendas and Minutes prepared and distributed within agreed timeframes.

Council and Committee Minutes uploaded to Council website.



Council Agendas and Minutes uploaded to Council website. Council Meetings livestreamed. Agendas distributed at least 3 working days prior to Meeting. New Committee Structure implemented and Meetings commenced May 2022.

Tourism and event information collated and distributed to the community.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

1.1.5.1 Establish, grow and maintain communication channels throughout the community.

Number of Monthly Tourism Talk e News, Number of Seasonal Event Guides and Quarterly Tourism Report.

A monthly e newsletter sent out with updates on Tourism news as well as upcoming events and ambassador support.

Quarterly tourism reports created and distributed, as well as included on website for all statistics and updates.

Programs are printed for all major event campaigns and a seasonal What's on Guide. Media releases created and distributed regularly and radio interviews done in the lead up to events and projects. All events and news shared on social media.

Be well informed, proactive and responsive to current issues that impact our community.

Provide a robust Council Committee and Working Group of structure.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

1.2.3.1 Implementation of a new Council Committee and Working Group structure.

Number of meetings postponed due to lack of quorum.

Number of committee recommendations to Council.

Maintain two way dialogue with Community Opinion Group (COG).

New endorsed Committee Structure implemented and commenced.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

1.2.4.1 COG is consulted on key projects and issues impacting the community.

Minimum 3 communications to COG per quarter.

54 COGs/Newsletters sent out to subscribers during the 2021/22 Financial Year. In addition, COG notices and newsletters posted to Council's social media accounts ensuring a strong reach and readership. A subscription drive was held during the second half of the financial year leading to an increase in subscribers. The COG in person meetings started in April 2022 with the second meeting held in July 2022. The first

Annual Report

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

meeting was successful with the community submitting agenda items and attending in person to speak with the Mayor, Councillors and Senior Staff.

Investigate and implement options to improve Councillor interaction with constituents.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

1.2.6.1 Provide opportunities for Councillor interaction and investigate online communication options.

Number of Community Workshops/Mornings in the Mall held. Number of online sessions held. Number of Council Cafe sessions held.



Council Cafe continues to be held each month (excluding January), giving Councillors the opportunity to meet with community members and visitors. Councillor Catch Up is published in each edition of the Council Catch Up, with Committee Chair messages to commence next quarter as needed.

Investigate and implement ways to improve Internal Communications.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

1.2.7 Provide Internal Communications such as staff newsletters and staff intranet.

Number of Staff Newsletters distributed. 

Review Extranet functionality.

Work together to achieve our goals

The extranet is updated on an as needs basis, with logins for external staff being set up this financial year to allow those staff to access the facility wherever they are. Council Capers (internal newsletter) sent out monthly emailed to all staff, available on the extranet and a limited number printed and sent to external departments and facilities.

Actively engage with State, Federal and non-government agencies in a local advocacy role.

Griffith City Council seeks leadership role with implementation of Joint Organisation of Councils (JOs) initiative.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

2.1.1.1 Griffith City Council will take a proactive role in the strategic direction of the Riverina and Murray Joint Organisation (RAMJO) of Councils.

The Riverina Murray RAMJO was established in accordance with State Government framework.

Water Position Paper was adopted during 2020 and RAMJO has experienced significant engagement from Commonwealth and NSW State Governments regarding the Position Paper since that time. Several grants have been secured by RAMJO that will improve digital connectivity in the region especially in smaller Local Government Areas (LGA). A Regional Freight Transport Plan was adopted in November 2020. Several energy audits have been undertaken across LGAs in the RAMJO area under funding provided by the NSW Government.

Council actively lobbies Government agencies to provide infrastructure to support our growing City of Griffith and Western Riverina.

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2.1.2.1 Construct remaining sections of Griffith Industrial Link Road.

Griffith Industrial Link Road stages funded in 

Annual Comment

Kidman Way/Bromley Rd Intersection

Completed Jun Qtr 2021

•Bromley Rd Completed Jun Qtr 2021

•Thorne Rd West Ongoing. Expected

Annual Report

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operational budgets.

completion Dec. Qtr 2022

•Thorne Rd (WallaAve./Murrumbidgee Ave. Ongoing. Expected completion Dec. Qtr 2023

•Roundabout (Intersection Thorne Rd./Murrumbidgee Ave.) Ongoing. Expected completion Dec. Qtr 2022.

Ongoing liaison with State and Federal and non government agencies on matters of relevance.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

2.1.3.1 Meetings held as required.

Number of meetings with State and Federal representatives with Mayor and or GM.



Meetings held as required and as per resolution of Council February 2022. Meeting held with Member for Murray in March 2022. Meeting with Federal Member for Farrer delayed due to election duties. Meeting held with Mayor and Deputy Premier April 2022.

New form developed to capture interactions of Mayor and Councillors as Meetings are held. Bush Summit to be held August 2022 with PM and NSW Premier to attend as well as other State and Federal Ministers.

Lobby with and on behalf of agencies to State and Federal governments on matters which affect the community.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

2.1.4.1 Meet with key stakeholders and lobby State and Federal governments on current issues which affect the community.

Number of meetings and projects. 

Meetings held as required and as per Resolution of Council February 2022. Meeting held with Member for Murray in March 2022. Meeting with Federal Member for Farrer delayed due to election duties. Meeting held with Mayor and Deputy Premier April 2022. Mayor and Councillors attended LGNSW Conference. New online Form developed to capture interactions of Mayor and Councillors as Meetings held. Bush Summit to be held August 2022 with PM and NSW Premier to attend as well as other State and Federal Ministers.

Work with Destination NSW, Destination Riverina Murray and the Kidman Way Committee whilst seeking opportunities with other tourism organisations.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

2.1.5.1 Respond to marketing/media requests. Build relationships and attend all relevant meetings accordingly.

Collaborative projects established and meetings held/attended.



Ongoing meetings held and regular communication with Destination Riverina Murray (DRM), Destination NSW.

Bi monthly Kidman Way Promotional Committee meetings attended and regular communication circulated.

Regular Accredited Visitor Information Centre (AVIC) meetings also attended via zoom, led by DNSW & The Tourism Group.

Annual Report

Partner with and provide support to organisations who deliver services and programs locally.

Construct Griffith Community Centre.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

2.2.2.1 Construct Griffith Community Centre in partnership with Griffith Community Centre Inc.

Centre construction completed July 2021.



Provide opportunities for community groups to access grant funding.

Construction of the Griffith Community Centre completed August 2021.

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2.2.3.1 Deliver two rounds of Community Grant funding and four information sessions each year.

Number of grant applications received and number of grants awarded. Number of grant information sessions/worksho ps held.



March Round of Grant funding deferred as per Council Resolution due to reduced funding. Remaining funding reallocated as per Resolution. Next round to open October 2022.

2.2.3.2 Support Club Grants NSW to allocate funds.

Number of Club Grants allocated. 

Club Grants allocated June 2022.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

2.2.4.1 Hold a quarterly Tourism Social Networking evening.

4 sessions held per year. Maintain growing attendance.

No tourism social nights were held in this reporting period. COVID restrictions preventing this from happening in Q1 & 2. Plans to host social night in conjunction with new Visitor Information Centre (VIC) display area were continuously rescheduled due to installation delays in Q2 & 3.

Despite no physical gatherings, regular communication was maintained with all tourism operators sharing information, support and initiatives.

2.2.4.2 Regular contact with key stakeholders. Identifying and establishing opportunities for our operators.

Number of meetings with stakeholders held.

When COVID restrictions permitted in Q1/2, operator visits were conducted. This increased in Q3/4 as the nation started to re open, events were being planned and there was more important information to share with our operators than there had been in the past two years. Any opportunities suitable to operators being offered by Regional Tourism Organisations (RTOs) or State Tourism Organisations (STOs) were communicated and encouraged:

*Destination NSW Digital Accelerator Program 21 key operators identified, 11 operators selected *Visit Griffith Ambassador 2022/24 Prospectus sent out to over 100 operators, with follow ups (calls and visits)

*DNSW Free webinar series encouraged ALL

Annual Report

Collaborate with local tourism operators by building and growing relationships.

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operators

*Destination Riverina Murray (DRM) Destination Inspiration 13 key operators identified, 2 operators successfully selected.

Maximise opportunities to secure external funding for partnerships, projects and programs to improve the quality of life for residents and visitors.

Identify funding opportunities for the improvement of the regional and local road networks.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

2.3.1.1 Apply for relevant grants and identify projects.

Number of grant applications submitted and successful grants obtained.



Application to Fixing Local Roads round three was successful for widening and upgrading Thorne Road between Walla Ave & Murrumbidgee Ave. Design work has continued on upgrading Kurrajong Ave in order to be ready for a possible Round four Fixing Local Roads.

Seek appropriate funding to implement the actions and priorities outlined in the Pedestrian Access Mobility Plan (PAMP) and Bicycle Plan.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

2.3.2.1 Apply for relevant grant funding opportunities to undertake construction of footpaths and cycleways.

Number of grant applications submitted and successful grants obtained.



Council's applications for 2022/23 were unsuccessful to date, although re submissions were requested for Coolah Street and designs were updated to reflect identified construction issues.

Develop and maintain a network of grant sources to identify grant opportunities.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

2.3.3.1 Provide monthly report to Senior Management Team on grants available and applied for.

Number of grants applied for and received.

Grants report provided to Senior Management Team (SMT) on a monthly basis for review.

Investigate external funding opportunities to support the Griffith Playground Strategy (2014) and Griffith CBD Strategy (2015) rollout.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

2.3.4.1 Apply for external funding for approved Urban Design Projects.

Grants applied for and grants awarded. 

Applying for available Grant funding is an ongoing process.

Recent funding received includes:

Activation of the Carpark behind Memorial park as part of changings streets into shared spaces. Received $386,745.

New Mountain bike track as part of Places to Play 2022. Received $500,000.

Applied for: New viewing platform/walkway Scenic Hill as part of Crown Reserve Improvement Fund. Applied for $854,598.

New Playground at Borland Leckie as part of the

Annual Report

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

Club Infrastructure grant under Sport and Recreation. Applied for $95,460.

2.3.4.2 Apply for grant funding.

Grants applied for and grants awarded.



Applying for available Grant funding is an ongoing process.

Recent funding received includes:

Activation of the Carpark behind Memorial park as part of changings streets into shared spaces. Received $386,745.

New Mountain bike track as part of Places to Play 2022. Received $500,000.

Applied for:

New viewing platform/walkway Scenic Hill as part of Crown Reserve Improvement Fund. Applied or $854,598.

New Playground at Borland Leckie as part of the Club Infrastructure grant under Sport and Recreation. Applied for $95,460.

Develop partnerships with industry and agriculture leaders.

Encourage existing partnerships with tertiary education providers that support quality education pathways for Griffith students.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

2.4.1.1 Mayor and GM continue Director roles (Mayor as Chair) of Country Universities Centre Western Riverina in Griffith.

Transition of CUC Western Riverina to new Community Centre.



GM retains Director role with Country Universities Centre Western Riverina. Mr. John Dal Broi (previous Mayor) retains Director role.

Develop partnerships to provide leadership in irrigation, water efficiency and availability.

Improve water quality at Lake Wyangan.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

2.5.1.1 Engage with relevant stakeholders via Lake Wyangan Catchment Management Committee to develop and implement strategies to improve water quality.

Priorities for action identified during 2021/22 and community consultation undertaken to finalise allocations of resources.

Reclamation plant water pipeline will not progress at this stage. Council will explore partnership with Murrumbidgee Irrigation to address the salinity issue with the Lake. Should discussions be positive then a new proposal may be submitted to NSW Government.

Proposed treatment of Blue Green Algae in North Lake and South Lake (using different treatment strategies) during Spring of 2022 subject to endorsement by Council.

Works at the Recreation Area of North Lake included in Council's 2022/23 and 2023/24 Operational Plan. Primarily to address sediment run off into Lake.

Provide ongoing support for the Build More Dams Action Group.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

2.5.3.1 Convene Build More Dams Action Group meetings as required.

Number of meetings held. 

Plan and lead with good governance

No Build More Dams Meetings held this year. Committee removed from structure.

Undertake Council activities within a clear framework of strategic planning, policies, procedures and service standards.

Council's Integrated Planning and Reporting suite of documents developed, outcomes reported and documents reviewed in accordance with statutory requirements.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

3.1.1.1 Operational Plan developed, exhibited and adopted by Council by June 2021. Progress reports provided to Council.

IP&R documents prepared in accordance with statutory requirements.

Ongoing monitoring of Customer Focus



Griffith City Council Delivery Program (2022/26) and Operational Plan (2022/23) adopted by Council 28 June 2022.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

3.1.3.1 Monitor customer contact and transactions on a regular basis.

Analysis of telephone contact data, quarterly. Survey of customer experience, quarterly. CRM resolution performance, quarterly.

Quarterly customer service report prepared and communicated.

Provide a risk management framework.



Statistics and Customer Request Management (CRM) monitored and managed.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

3.1.4.1 Review Risk Register and develop Risk Management Action Plans.

Risk Register reviewed. Risk Management Action Plans developed and communicated annually.



Council has invested in developing policies, conducting risk assessments, identifying controls to reduce, mitigate or eliminate risks within the organisation.

Council has developed and adopted a Risk Management Framework in consultation with the Risk Policy.

Council has conducted risk assessments of the whole organisation which identifies risk and developed controls to reduce, mitigate or

Code Action Measure Status

Annual Comment

eliminate risk within the organisation. Council has developed a comprehensive Risk Register. Council's insurer has conducted a number of workshops to review the fraud risks as identified from the New South Wales Auditor General's Report [1] in regards to Procurement, Payroll, Development Approvals and Financial Management.

Ensure appropriate Internal Audit program is maintained at Griffith City Council.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

3.1.5.1 Annual internal audit plan developed.

Number of internal audit projects undertaken.

Number of internal audit recommendations implemented.



The Audit Risk and Improvement Committee met 23 August 2021, 29 November 2021 and 22 March 2022. The following Audits were presented and considered: Fraud Review, COVID 19 Rules Compliance, Review of Councillors' Payment of Expenses and Provision of Facilities Policy, Pecuniary Interests, Credit Cards and Gifts & Benefits, Contract Management. The Committee also reviewed the Annual Financial Statements, Risk Management Plan, Quarterly Review Reports, Annual Engagement Letter and Management Letter, Assessment of Internal Audit Function and Endorsement of Strategic Audit Plan.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

3.1.6.1 Undertake review of HR policies. HR policies reviewed as per cycle. 

3.1.6.2 Provide a relevant training calendar for staff development and compliance.

Training Calendar completed and available.

WHS training provided within relevant time frames.

Council continues to review and update policies and procedures in accordance to the Local Government (State) Award.

Calendar completed and staff training being arranged accordingly.

3.1.6.3 Implement Award changes as required.

Number of Consultative Committee meetings held.

Council has a duty of care for all workers under the Work Health and Safety legislation to provide a safe workplace. Council takes this responsibility very seriously and has adopted a new Workplace Aggression and Violence policy to assist staff to identify, assesses and eliminates Work Health and Safety risks from aggression, violence, and intimidation, and responds to other forms of offensive behavior in Council facilities.

3.1.6.4 Implement actions outlined in Council's Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy.

Report on EEO progress and activities in Council's Annual Report.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy followed with all recruitment activities. Addressed in Annual Report.

Provide a compliant Human Resource Management service to meet legislative and organisational requirements.

Provide effective compliance services including animal control, parking compliance, litter compliance, overgrown vegetation on privately owned land. Respond to stock complaints.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

3.1.7.1 Undertake regular patrols of restricted parking areas and school zones.

3.1.7.2 Provide and maintain an effective companion animal program and facility.

Number of PINS per month. School zone patrols conducted daily during school terms.

Number of PINS per month. Number of rehomed companion animals per month.Number of stock complaints dealt with.



Contract with current parking enforcement service provider has been renewed through tender process. Higher risk areas identified and Compliance team liaise with Council's Traffic Safety Officer and school principals to improve safety within these areas and other school zone areas.



Improvement of facility ongoing with exercise areas completed. Minor capital works planned for next financial year. Microchipping and de sexing programs to continue. All issues are discussed on a weekly basis and improvements made as necessary.

3.1.7.3 Respond to litter complaints in a timely manner.

3.1.7.4 Maintain a seasonal program for compliance with overgrown vegetation.

Number of inspections conducted per quarter.



Number of intention notices sent per quarter. 

Customer Request Management (CRM) statistics are used to manage this action and it indicates positive progress.

Program to be reviewed. Council responded to ad hoc overgrown allotment complaints received via CRM.

Provide governance services to Council.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

3.1.8.1 Review public policies as required.

Local policies reviewed by September 2022. Public policies reviewed at least once during Council term.

Internal policies and Council policies compiled and provided to relevant Directors to review. Council policies reviewed/adopted include: Code of Conduct, Code of Meeting Practice, Community Development, Committees policy, Child Safety policy, Code of Meeting Practice, Councillors Payment of Expenses policy, Statements to Media policy. Local policies and Business, Cultural, Financial policies endorsed and placed on public exhibition.

3.1.8.2 Provide administration support, Councillor information sessions and induction programs for 2021 Council Election.

3.1.8.3 Coordinate production of Council's Business

Council election conducted in accordance with legislation. Councillor induction program delivered.

Agendas and Minutes prepared in 

Following election, Councillors were provided with training and induction including use of Councillor Hub, relevant policies and procedures. Induction program delivered to Councillors and professional development course options provided. Administration support provided to Councillors as required.

Council's Business Papers, Minutes, Committee Agendas, Minutes and Action Reports are compiled and distributed to Councillors,

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

Papers, Minutes, Committee Agendas, Committee Minutes and Action Reports.

3.1.8.4 Manage Council's Integrated Planning and Reporting Requirements including End of Term Report and review of Community Strategic Plan.

accordance with Council policy and deadlines.

Committee members and Council's webpage within the required timeframes as prescribed by Council's Code of Meeting Practice and Committee Terms of Reference. Council endorsed new Committee Terms of Reference as part of Committee restructure.

IP&R undertaken within required time frames including Annual Report, Delivery Program reports, Quarterly reports, review of Delivery Program and Operational Plan. End of Term Report prepared by August 2021. Review Community Strategic Plan by February 2022.

Annual Report prepared by 30 Nov 2021. End of Term Report presented to outgoing Council and incoming Council. Community consultation undertaken to inform the review of the Community Strategic Plan. A new Community Strategic Plan was adopted 22 March 2022. Quarterly reports and six monthly Progress Reports prepared for Council as required. Delivery Program and Operational Plan, Long Term Financial Plan, Asset Management Plan, Workforce Management Plan adopted 28 June 2022.

3.1.8.5 Coordinate Legal Services Panel in accordance with tender provisions.

3.1.8.6 Develop induction and ongoing professional activities for Councillors in accordance with the Regulations.

Maintain Legal Services Panel. 

Councillor training plans prepared. 

Legal Services Panel is available to staff on Council's Extranet.

Induction program for new Council has been delivered pending delivery of Planning session scheduled for July 2022. Councillors have been invited to undertake a new Councillor Development Program or Returning Councillor Development Program as part of their professional development activities. Councillors invited to participate in the LGNSW Councillor Professional Development webinar to assist them to identify capabilities (knowledge, skills and behaviours) needed to effectively fulfil their roles. A list of available courses for Councillors' professional development is emailed to Councillors on a regular basis.

Ensure statutory reporting complies with legislative requirements.

Code Action Measure Status

3.1.9.1 Ensure compliance with statutory requirements including Public

Statutory tasks undertaken within guidelines and required



Annual Comment

Delegations of Authority reviewed and presented to Council for adoption - Mayor and General Manager. Reports submitted as required for Public Interest Disclosures and GIPA Annual

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

Interest Disclosures, GIPA Reporting, Management of Delegations, Disclosure of Councillors and Designated Persons Register.

required time frames.

Report. Annual Disclosures of Interests for Councillors and Designated Persons presented to Council October 2021 and new Councillor Disclosures presented to Council following 4 Dec election.

Facilitate the proactive public release of government information in accordance with legislative and organisational requirements.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

3.1.10.1 Respond to and assess GIPA applications in a timely manner. Review Information Guide annually. Ensure information is available on Council's website as outlined in Information Guide.

Number of applications approved within timeframes. Council's website updated with required government information.

Two formal GIPA applications received this year. Council's Information Guide was reviewed and adopted in May 2022.

Provide efficient, accurate and compliant record management services to both internal and external customers of Council.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

3.1.11.1 Provide records management training and ongoing advice and technical support to all staff.

Number of training attendees. Monthly records management 'tips' emailed to all staff. Investigate availability of online self paced training platforms for records management processes and systems.

Records management training and advice is an ongoing activity and will continue in 2022 2023.

3.1.11.2 Provide basic NAR, Property and Intramaps training to all Council staff.

3.1.11.3 Undertake in house trial for the digitisation of Council hard copy property files to establish resources necessary for a

Number of training attendees.

Complete by September 2021.

Name and Address Register (NAR), Property module training is an ongoing activity and will be provided in 2022-2023 when required.

The digitisation trial was completed with costings and findings presented to Senior Management Team (SMT) on 12 July 2021. SMT endorsed the utilisation of available casual staff on an ongoing basis to continue this digitisation project. Council's hard copy property files are identified as Vital/High Risk records in the adopted Records

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

complete electronic archive.

3.1.11.4 Classify historical electronic records from previous records system in accordance with GA39 Retention and Disposal Authority with a view to implement automated electronic record disposal workflows.

3.1.11.5 Undertake in house digitisation of 36 hard copy Council Business Papers (dated 2005) to complete the electronic archive of these permanent State Archives.

3.1.11.6 Develop and standardise internal procedures for Information Management Administration key tasks.

3.1.11.7 Undertake disposal of Council paper records that have reached the end of their legal retention in accordance with GA39 Retention and Disposal Authority.

Complete by December 2022 

Risk Register (IM FO 210) and in house digitisation will continue in 2022 23.

The electronic record disposal process in Content Manager is now working and procedural documentation has been developed. Upon completion of legacy record sentencing, a regular 6 monthly electronic disposal process will be implemented across Council. This project has been rolled over to Operational Plan 2022 2023.

Complete by December 2021. 

These records are identified in Council's adopted Records Risk Register (IM FO 210) as Vital/High Risk. The above action has been rolled over to the 2022 23 Operational Plan for completion and the Information Manager is investigating the possibility of introducing a roster for appropriately skilled IM Staff to complete the scanning on the Library's Book Scanner.

Complete by December 2021 

This procedures manual will be reviewed regularly and updated as required. It will greatly assist other members of Information Management staff when the Information Management Administrator is absent.

Conduct annually. 

Disposal of paper records stored in Council's basement area that have reached the end of their legal retention period is ongoing and will continue in 2022-2023.

Provide corporate property services to Council.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

3.1.12.4 Coordinate preparation of Plans of Management for Council owned community land.

Priority Plans of Management completed. 

Preparation of Plans of Management for Council owned community land are progressing well. It is anticipated that all plans will be completed by December 2022.

Provide reliable IT services within Council.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

3.1.13.1 Review all software applications and other programs on an annual basis. Replacement of hardware as required.

3.1.13.2 Maintain support services to Council departments.

PCs to maintain a turnover ratio of 5 years minimum. Annual upgrade of Authority completed. Report on other applications as renewed.

80% CRMs closed as per service standard.

The supply chain issues has made the annual hardware refresh difficult. Major delays across the industry with lead times running out the multiple months and parts shortages across the board. Enterprise resource planning (ERP) review process has been ongoing with the application mapping process taking place. Authority upgrade was not available this year as Civica are in the early stages of testing their new product.

The IT review has been completed with areas of focus now identified. A number of software products which have been in service at Council for many years have now been replaced. This has allowed Council to better leverage its investment in software and allow us to more effectively communicate with stakeholders and our customers.. 86% of CRMs (Customer Request Management) closed within service standard.

Prepare and Implement Strategic Planning Framework

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

3.1.15.1 Local Strategic Planning Statement Comprehensive DCP Local Environmental Plan

Strategy meets legislative requirements Plans and documents publicly notified and approved by Council.

Review of Development Control Plans

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

3.1.16.1 Review and rewrite Council's Development Control Plans (DPCs)

Development Control Plans adopted by Council.

Develop Local Strategic Planning Statements (LSPS)

Residential Development Control Plan complete. Other Development Control Plans (DCPs) under review anticipate completion December 2022.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

3.1.17.1 Compile Local Strategic Planning Statements for Griffith.

Adoption of Local Strategic Planning Statements.

Local Strategic Planning Statements (LSPS) completed and operational.

Griffith Local Environment Plan review underway.

Griffith Community Participation Plan

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

3.1.18.1 Compile a Community Participation Plan for Griffith.

Endorsed by Council December 2019. Continued monitoring of practicalities of CPP.

Ensure Council's financial sustainability through effective financial management that is transparent and accountable.

Adopt Delivery Program and Operational Plans (Budget) inclusive of 10 Year Long Term Financial Plan.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

3.2.1.1 Meet annual statutory reporting requirements.

Adoption of annual financial statements within OLG guidelines. Adoption of annual operating budget by Council prior to 30 June. Adoption of quarterly operational review reports. Meet OLG financial sustainability ratios.

Provide managers with timely data of their current budget items.

Council has met all of its' annual statutory reporting obligations.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

Provide monthly financial reporting to responsible managers by the 15th of the following month, or as soon as practicable.

73

Love the lifestyle

Ensure Griffith is a great place to live

Enable accessible diversity in housing choice.

Monitor land availability (Residential,Commercial, Industrial, Recreational)

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.1.2.1 Compare actual land take up with projections in the Land Use Strategy during a five year review period.

At any period of time the amount of correctly zoned land available for development should out perform the demand for such land.

Implement the Griffith Housing Strategy objectives where possible.

Council Endorsed the report for the proposed Planning Proposal which is currently being assessed by Department of Primary Industries (DPI).

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.1.3.1 Foster partnerships with developers, community housing providers and levels of Government to increase housing stock and land availability in the LGA.

Griffith Affordable Housing Strategy.

Number of new housing developments.

Number of contact with developers. Number of strategies met or worked on.



Council approved affordable housing development - New Generation Boarding House. Draft Local Environmental Plan (LEP) amendments to NSW Planning for gateway determination.

Griffin Green development progressingconstruction of townhouses commenced in partnership with Argyle Housing May 2022. Grant applications submitted to Building Better Regions Fund & NSW Regional Housing Fund for Collina infrastructure development.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.1.4 Compile an Affordable Housing Strategy for Griffith.

Adoption of the Affordable Housing Strategy and implementation of recommendations.

Affordable Housing Strategy operational.

A shared responsibility for the safety of individuals and the community.

Identify and promote road safety projects relevant to Griffith Local Government Area.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.2.1.1 Investigate strategies to resolve road safety issues.

Develop and implement a 3 year road safety action plan and report strategies to the Transport Committee by June 2022.

All road safety strategies applied within the Griffith LGA appear to address identified road safety issues. At the time or writing the Griffith LGA has had a reduction in serious injury road crashed across the 2021/22 financial year. The LGA has also remained fatality free since February 2021 (18 months).

A 4 year action plan 2021/22 2024/25 is

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

currently in existence that addresses road safety issues. That plan is reviewed in March of each year to ensure appropriate road safety issues are targeted.

Improve public safety by provision of appropriate information signage in public areas.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.2.2.1 Review and maintenance of "Signs as Remote Supervision" in public areas.

Reviews of signs to be undertaken and repairs made for damage or vandalism.



The maintenance of signage to meet the policy 'Council Signage in Parks and Reserves' is ongoing.

Investigate opportunities to fund and develop safer parks and streetscapes consistent with the Crime Prevention Strategy.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.2.3.1 Install lighting and CCTV in designated areas.

Number of installations. 

Ongoing when funding available. Constantly looking for funding streams to extend the CCTV network throughout the City. New CCTV cameras were installed at the new Stage to mitigate vandalism. Currently rolling out cameras in Yambil Street and as part of the Kooyoo Street redevelopment.

Review of Crime Prevention Plan.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.2.4.1 Review local Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) data and amend current Crime Prevention Plan.

4.2.4.2 Work with agencies to create awareness and improve community safety.

Crime Prevention Plan reviewed annually.



Crime Prevention Plan not amended during 2021/22.

Number of campaigns/meetings held. 

Council commenced regular meetings with local Police.

Council has regular attendance at Community Interagency Meetings, Youth Interagency Meetings and Suicide Prevention Reference Group, Griffith Against Domestic Violence Group. Council regularly supports Griffith Aboriginal Medical Service initiatives.

Council resolved to increase Alcohol Prohibited Areas in Willow Park.

Council increasing and improving CCTV network in the City, including activation of live CBD CCTV feed to Police Station.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.2.5.1 Undertake Food Business Inspections within the Griffith LGA as required under the NSW Food Act 2003.

4.2.5.2 Undertake Food Business Inspections within the Hay LGA as required under the NSW Food Act 2003.

4.2.5.3 Undertake Temporary Event Food inspections within the Griffith LGA as required.

4.2.5.4 Undertake Mobile Food Van inspections within the Griffith LGA as required.

Deliver

All Food Business Inspections undertaken in Griffith LGA/ann.

All food business inspections undertaken in Hay LGA/ann.



Food inspection program in place and adhered to.

All Inspections in Griffith LGA. 

Narrandera no longer requires GCC to undertake inspections. Inspection program in place and adhered to for Hay.

Inspections undertaken as required for events.

Undertake inspections as per register. 

Mobile Food Van inspections undertaken within the Griffith LGA in line with Exempt and Complying State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) Subdivision 27A Mobile food and drink outlets and Council's policy.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.2.6.1 Set and collect Mosquito traps weekly from designated sites in Griffith during November to April.

4.2.6.2 Test Sentinel Flock of chickens weekly between November to April.

Mosquito Traps set, collected and collections freighted for analysis weekly between November to April.

Sentinel Flock tested weekly and samples sent for analysis weekly.



Annual program followed.

Annual inspection program followed.

Manage Risk Based Performance of Cooling Water Systems as required under the Public Health Regulation 2010.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.2.07.1 Urgently respond to notifications of high Legionella and HCC test results. Undertake audit of installation of UIN's on Cooling Water Systems. Take receipt of Risk

Respond to all notifications of High Legionella and HCC

Responsibility now on owners of buildings where general public have access to provide certification to Council that units are inspected and in good order. Process in place to Monitor. Owners reminded in writing to provide Regular monitoring plan to Council Proof of audit Council keeps register to monitor.

Deliver Food Inspections on food premises within the Griffith and surrounding LGA's as required under the NSW Food Act 2003.

Arbovirus Surveillance Program as required by NSW Health.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

Management Certificates for each Cooling Water System. Maintain UIN register.

Deliver Public Swimming Pool inspections as required under the Public Health Act 2010.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.2.08.1 Undertake pool sampling for Public Swimming Pools and Spa Pools. Complete pool sampling of Hotel, Motel and Accommodation facilities. Undertake pool sampling of School Pools (Kalinda & GPSO). Undertake sampling of GCC's Splash Park.

Complete inspections in line with inspection program.



Annual inspection program in place and adhered to.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.2.09.1 Undertake On site Sewage Management inspections on registered Septic and Aerated Water Treatment Systems (AWTS) as they arise. Issue 'Approvals to Operate'.

On site Sewage Management inspections/ann. Approvals to Install issued/ann. Approvals to Operate' issued/ann. Respond to complaints/ann as submitted.

Provide annual Flu Vaccination Clinics.



All inspections undertaken as required.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.2.10.2 Ensure identified staff are provided appropriate vaccinations as per Position Description.

Annual clinic provided. 

Council has reviewed the type of vaccinations required for high risk positions, which is documented and recorded within the position descriptions. Council has completed the annual flu vaccination clinic for staff and Councillors and will also be rolling out a vaccination clinic for staff at the Griffith Regional Aquatic and Leisure Centre to reduce the risk of harm to employees health and safety.

Deliver On site Sewage Management inspections as required under NSW Local Government Act 1993 and POEO Act 1997.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.2.11.1 Undertake inspections of Griffith LGA Hairdresser, Beauty and Skin Penetration premises including equipment and facilities.

4.2.11.3 Undertake inspections of Hay LGA Beauty and Skin Penetration premises including equipment and facilities.

Deliver

Complete inspections in line with inspection program.



Annual Inspection program in place and adhered to.

Beauty and Skin Penetration premise inspections in Hay LGA/ann.

Annual inspection program in place and adhered to.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.2.12.1 Undertake inspections of Griffith LGA Mortuary premises including equipment and facilities.

4.2.12.2 Undertake inspections of Hay LGA Mortuary premises including equipment and facilities.

Complete inspections in line with inspection program.

Mortuary inspection/ann. Hay LGA as per inspection program.

Annual inspection program in place and adhered to.

Inspection program in place and adhered to.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.2.13.1 Undertake regular water samples of Lake Wyangan to determine lake water suitability for Recreational water use.

Regular monitoring of water to test quality and to determine condition of water.

Samples

Deliver Beauty and Skin Penetration Inspections within Griffith and Hay LGA's as required by NSW Health. (Hairdressers as required)

Mortuary Inspections as required by NSW Health.

Deliver Lake Wyangan Water Quality Sampling as required by the Australian Recreational Water Guidelines and Murrumbidgee Regional Algal Coordinating Committee.

regularly taken and tested.

Promote and celebrate our social and cultural diversity.

Prepare and implement Multicultural Engagement Strategy.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.3.1.1 Work with the multicultural interagency network to prepare draft Multicultural Engagement Strategy (MES).

Number of consultations held.

Council attends Multicultural Interagency Meetings. Council joined NSW Grow Welcoming Cities program in collaboration with Multicultural NSW and RDA Riverina.

Hold Citizenship Ceremonies as required.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.3.2.1 Citizenship Ceremonies held as required.

Number of ceremonies held. Number of people receiving Citizenship.

Ceremonies held in person now that COVID 19 restrictions have eased which is reflected in the increase in conferees seeking citizenship.

Promote various events to showcase Griffith's social and cultural diversity.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.3.3.1 Raise awareness of key social and cultural events and festivals throughout the year. Support and provide opportunities for promotion of key events.

Organise Australia Day Ceremony.

Number of events promoted.

First year with all festivals returning.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.3.4.1 Australia Day Ceremony held.

Number of nominations received.

Provide and promote accessibility to services and facilities.

Successful Australia Day Awards and Citizenship ceremony held with 50 conferees. Successful Survival Day held at Griffith Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre in partnership with Griffith Local Aboriginal Land Council.

Provide sufficient aquatic facilities to meet the demands of the community.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.4.1.2 Complete construction of a 50 m pool.

An accredited competition standard 50 m outdoor pool plus associated filtration infrastructure delivered and officially opened.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.4.2.1 Provide a clean functional and well maintained aquatic facility available to the public.

Compliance with GRALC Maintenance Schedule.



Griffith Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre (GRALC) continues to provide a clean and well maintained facility available to the public. Throughout the year we have been particularly busy and staff and cleaners have worked well to maintain cleanliness at a high standard for a busy public facility. A scheduled maintenance shut down has been set down for July 2022 to take care of any larger maintenance issues requiring attention such as replacement of sand in filters etc.

Provide a collection of library material, meeting community and industry standards.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.4.3.1 Maintain a collection of library material in accordance with State Library guidelines.

Circulation per capita at a minimum of 3.5 times average for each resource. Track number of visits to WRL website 48% stock less than five years old.

Griffith City Library to facilitate digital inclusion in the community.

The Library collection of resources continues to evolve to meet the needs of our diverse community. The collection includes both physical (books, magazines, DVDs, audiobooks, cake tins and a new collection of hand puppets) and digital resources (eBooks, eAudiobooks and eMagazines) for all interests and ages. The Western Riverina Libraries website provides access to the catalogue, member services, digital collections and databases, library programs and events, as well as photographs and resources on the local history of Griffith and the Riverina.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

Hardware asset less than 5 years old. Number of internet access bookings utilising WiFi and also public computers.

4.4.4.2 Provide reliable high speed internet and computer equipment. 

The Library continues to support equal access to information through the provision of free computer and internet use. This year, the Library partnered with local high school students to provide digital literacy classes for the community.

The Library continues to provide free access to information with access to 14 public computers, which exceeds targets in the provision of access to public computers.

Position the Griffith City Library as a community hub for learning, networking and leisure.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.4.5.1 Provide a number of Library programs to all sectors of the community.

Provide a quarterly report on visitation per annum (minimum 5 visits per capita). Deliver



Despite the challenges of COVID 19, the Library Programs team continued to produce high quality, educational and entertaining programs, events and activities for all sectors of the community. Highlights of the year included Christmas wreath making, Christmas family photos backdrop of a winter wonderland, school holiday workshops,

Annual Report

Maintain the Griffith Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre (GRALC) in accordance with Asset Management Plans.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

a minimum of 20 programs annually, annual calendar of programs and events reflecting the population demographic.

4.4.5.2 Promote the Library facilities for optimum community use.

Report on number of participants in programs quarterly. Aim for 5% per annum increase year on year.

HSC Forum, digital literacy classes and Easter Rhyme Time in Memorial Park.

COVID 19 restrictions and lockdowns played a part in the reduction of programs and visitations to the library. Library Staff overcame lockdown restrictions by introducing a Click and Deliver service to the community and delivered books and DVDs to residents of Griffith and surrounding villages on a daily basis during the lockdown. Once restrictions eased programs were reintroduced, including bi weekly Rhyme Time and Storytime, author talks, HSC Forum, workshops and film screenings and a new monthly program, Family Time.

Provide Library accommodation and ancillary services to community and industry standards.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.4.6.1 Provide a clean, functional and well maintained library facility available to the public.

Provide access to community services.

Compliance with Library Maintenance Schedule. Report quarterly.

Library maintenance continues to comply with the Library Maintenance Schedule. Two air conditioner units were upgraded and now provide a comfortable environment for library users.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.4.7.1 Maintain an up to date Community Directory.

4.4.7.2 Work with Inter agency Networks and other organisations on issues impacting the community.

Community Directory reviewed annually.

Number of activities held and projects.

All participants contacted to update data. Media drive to encourage new entrants and to update data. Updates made as received. New Youth Services category and Mental Health Services category added.

Monthly Community Interagency Meetings attended. Convene and Chair bimonthly Youth Interagency Meetings commenced Youth Survey.

Convene monthly Suicide Prevention Reference Group Meetings progressed Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) tenancy for Safe Haven. Attended Multicultural Interagency Meetings.

Plan for, develop and provide a suitable range of cultural and art facilities, engaging programs and diverse events.

Griffith Regional Theatre will deliver a diverse and engaging program of events that caters to the needs of the community.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.5.1.1 Develop and deliver high quality, diverse entrepreneurial season that is inclusive of different age, cultural and interest groups in the community.

Deliver a minimum of 16 entrepreneurial shows per calendar year including a minimum of 3 seniors shows, 4 educational/family shows and a minimum of 1 show for the CALD community.

After intermittent shutdowns during last year, 2022 finished strongly with many local events continuing at 75 or 100% capacity. The Season launch, held in December was well attended and presented a wide range of programs for 2022 which are progressing well. Several shows are selling well, but many shows are selling less than would be normally expected, due to people's COVID hesitation, but also due to the large variety of shows that are on offer.

A total of 22 entrepreneurial shows were delivered.

4.5.1.2 Deliver biannual community music production.

Produce and deliver Community Production every 2 years.



4.5.1.3 Deliver annual Theatre Workshops for young people.

4.5.1.4 Marketing strategy developed, reviewed and implemented annually.

Number of Workshops held and number of attendees.

Increase audience by 5 10 %, increase up take of memberships and subscriptions by 3 5% annually.



After not having a community production for several years, we are looking forward to putting on a production in September 2023. Planning for this will commence around September 2022, and will continue throughout 2023.

The Senior Drama Troupe is a strong and enthusiastic group of young people enhancing their drama skills. As a result of the program, many of these young people have taken on acting roles in local productions.

With the return of regular programming in 2022 we have put in place a marketing plan for the remainder of this year, and will revisit this and design a new plan for 2023 later in the year. A new website is being reviewed and it will be launched later this year.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.5.2.1 Provide a clean functional and wellmaintained Theatre facility available to the public.

Compliance with Theatre Maintenance Schedule.

The Theatre is well maintained and continues to be a premium regional venue for touring shows. This year we have installed handrails which has improved accessibility. The stage has been sanded back and repainted. Repairs to the roof will soon be undertaken and it is hoped air conditioning in the auditorium can be replaced in the next year or so.

4.5.2.2 Ensure technological facilities are maintained and upgraded to meet current industry standards.

Technology updated as per budget allocation.

Annual review against current

A new state of the art sound system has been installed in the auditorium this year which is one of the best systems outside of Sydney. Performers and their technical crews have been extremely pleased with the sound quality and it has enhanced the experience for audiences and performers.

Annual Report

Provide a well maintained Theatre facility for the public and performers, meeting community and industry standards.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

industry standards.

The Theatre was successful in receiving a substantial grant to purchase out door rated sound and lighting equipment that will be used on the outdoor community stages by visiting and local performers.

Investigate opportunities for sponsorship for the Griffith Regional Theatre.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.5.3.1 Develop an annual sponsorship strategy for Griffith Regional Theatre.

Number of sponsors engaged with the Theatre.

Griffith Regional Theatre enjoys a great relationship with local sponsors, Griffith City Volkswagen, Calabria Family Wines, Hunt & Hunt lawyers, as well as various member sponsors. There were 11 sponsors engaged this year.

The Griffith Regional Art Gallery will develop and deliver a diverse and engaging program of cultural activities.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.5.4.1 Develop and deliver annual exhibition program that includes quality touring and locally sourced solo and group exhibitions.

4.5.4.2 Deliver a minimum of 6 Artspace exhibitions per year including works by local artists and displays of interest to the local community.

Minimum of 8 exhibitions per year including a minimum of 2 touring exhibitions and a minimum of 2 exhibitions by local artists.

Minimum of 6 exhibitions per year including minimum of 3 exhibitions by local artists.

The Griffith Regional Art Gallery is enjoying a successful year after its intermittent COVID shut downs last year. The Gallery enjoys a full compliment of excellent staff, and a great line up of exhibitions from prominent Australian artists including Ken Done and Tom Moore. There were 8 exhibitions presented this year.

The Artspace Exhibition space at Griffith Regional Theatre provides a platform for local artists to display and sell their work, where they may not have enough work, or the opportunity to display it in the Gallery. It is viewed by many patrons who attend shows at the theatre and provides a point of interest in the foyer. Local artists are appreciative of the opportunity.

Increase community engagement by 5 10%.

There is generic or standard marketing activities that are undertaken for each event at the Gallery, but at the start of each year we identify which exhibitions will be more significant and will allocate additional marketing resources to these events. Both the Public Programs Officer and the Marketing Officer are skilled in design and promotion so events have been well marketed. They work in well together, along with the Gallery Coordinator to decide how and when to market events.

4.5.4.4 Develop and deliver high quality, diverse schedule of public programs that caters to the needs of different age, cultural and interest groups.



Annual Report

83

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

educational programs and a minimum of 2 Master Classes.

adults. There has been a wide variety of exhibitions of both local and national content and the gallery has had good visitation for most exhibitions. A total of 14 public programs were delivered.

Provide a well maintained Art Gallery facility for the public and performers meeting community and industry standards.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.5.5.1 Provide a clean functional and well maintained Art Gallery facility available to the public.

Compliance with Art Gallery Maintenance Schedule.



The Art Gallery has had exceptional exhibitions this year, and very good visitor numbers. The employment of a new Public Programs Officer has seen a growth in attendance at public events and subsequently revenue. Likewise, an increased range of items available for purchase in the retail store has seen an increase in revenue. It continues to have some maintenance issues which will continue while situated in the current building.

Develop and manage regional museum collections of historic and social significance to Griffith region and communities.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.5.6.1 Review and upgrade museum policies and procedures to establish a sound basis for development of the collections including acquisitions and deaccession policies.

4.5.6.2 Make recommendations for acquisitions and deaccession of collections in accordance with Strategic Plan and budget requirements. Review collections acquisitions and deaccessions annually.

4.5.6.3 Utilise collections software to ensure all exhibits are accurately recorded and appropriately documented.

4.5.6.4 Conduct an assessment of current state of Museum buildings to identify conservation

Policies and procedures reviewed annually.

A current policy is already in place. Committee may wish to review and update the policy at some stage.

Exhibits and materials are acquired or deaccessioned in accordance with relevant policies. Reviewed by 30 June annually.

Collections Management Software is installed and operational by 30 June 2021.

Asset Maintenance and Restoration Plan completed

No major de accession or acquisition requirements at this point. The facility has a policy to deal with these aspects.

Collections software has been installed and all records have now been transported into the new system.

Asset Management Coordinator has prepared a schedule of relevant buildings along with capital maintenance requirements currently identified. Input being sought from Technical Coordinator Pioneer Park Museum and Committee members

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

needs and develop Asset Maintenance and Restoration Plan according to priority.

by 30 June 2022.

on these works which will be finalised into the Restoration Plan. The Restoration Plan will take many years to complete due to the constraints of resources (volunteers) as well as financial constraints in being able to fund extensive, multiple upgrades in the same year. The status of the KPI is that it is completed for the 2021/22 year but there will ongoing work in future years required to complete a full restoration plan for the museum.

4.5.6.5 Conduct an assessment of collections assets to identify conservation needs, and develop program of conservation based on priority. Progress reviewed annually.

4.5.6.6 Arrange and carry out routine and detailed conservation activities to preserve the collections in accordance with Asset Restoration Plan and budget requirements. Review of maintenance annually.

4.5.6.7 Develop an annual program of exhibition displays, curatorial talks and activities to present the collections in a vibrant and engaging manner.

Conservation Plan completed for one element of each collection each year. Review 30 June annually.

Compliance with asset Restoration Plan. Review by 30 June annually.

Ongoing assessment by curator.

Two new exhibition displays, 4 curatorial talks, and 3 public programs completed each year.

4.5.6.8 Utilise collections management software to ensure all exhibits are accurately recorded and appropriately documented.

Collections Catalogue reviewed annually.

A Committee was formed during the 2021/22 year and will be looking at the programmed scheduling on ongoing conservation priorities for the collections including buildings at Pioneer Park Museum. Work is progressing on the restoration of the Baptist Church and should be completed during the 2022 calendar year. There has been restoration of the Hospital Building as well throughout the year. This is an ongoing Key Performance Indicator.

Works largely complete on Post Office exhibition with display cabinets installed and information panels. Baptist Church is in the midst of major renovation works as well as ongoing works to Hospital Building. Further works have been undertaken on the sewer connection project which will include a new vehicular entrance being constructed as well as additional access pathways between the Italian Museum and the Wine Exhibition Building.

Completed.

Develop and manage Pioneer Park as a centre for community and cultural engagement.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.5.7.1 Develop an annual program of social and cultural activities and

Two community cultural events held each year.

Ongoing commitment, completed for the 2021/22 year with the following undertaken; 1.The projection project onto the water reservoir

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

events at Griffith Pioneer Park Museum to attract and engage a more diverse local demographic.

4.5.7.2 Identify opportunities and develop resources to engage schools and community organisations in interactive learning experiences.

Increase diversity in annual usage by local community by 3%.

Increase visitation by local and regional school groups by 10%.

2.GRAPA production on the newly installed grass section

3.Action Day over Easter long weekend.

Limited current resources to fully undertake this requirement. Local schools and community organisations are engaging with the facility and attending events throughout the year.

Develop and manage Griffith Pioneer Park and Regional Museum as function and event venues.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.5.9.1 Develop facilities and resources to enhance Pioneer Park as a venue for hire and promote it to organisations, businesses and community groups.

4.5.9.2 Identify opportunities for funding or in kind assistance to enhance the quality and amenity of facilities for events and functions.

Increase hire of facilities by 3%. 

Pioneer Park Museum is continuing to invest in infrastructure and resources to enhance the ability to hire out the venue and to promote it as widely as possible. The new sewer connection and ongoing access works in and around the Park are examples of this investment along with major renovations to the Post Office, Hospital and Baptist Church buildings.

Funding or in kind assistance secured to upgrade venue facilities.

Council staff are continuously monitoring available funding opportunities to enhance the facilities. Council was successful in the past 12 months in securing in excess of $180,000 to complete the connection of sewer to the public amenities and caretakers cottage. Community contributions have also been made in order to carry out an upgrade to the Post Office and allow the Amatuer Radio Club to setup a working exhibit in the building.

Encourage a socially inclusive community that cares for all age groups and genders, people of different abilities, disadvantaged or minority groups.

Prepare the Disability Inclusion and Access Plan (DIAP) and implement recommendations.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.6.1.1 Prepare draft, place on exhibition and endorse DIAP.

DIAP endorsed reviewed and updated annually.

Prepare Youth Engagement Strategy and implement recommendations.

Revised Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) adopted November 2021.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.6.2.1 Consult with young people to inform the Youth Engagement Strategy (YES) and

Adopt and implement by 2021/22.

Successful Youth Week Activity Esports League following Youth Survey.

Grant application lodged seeking Youth Facilitator to lead Youth Interagency, preparation for

Annual Report

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

commence preparation of the Youth Engagement Strategy. Prepare draft YES, place on public exhibition and endorse.

development of Youth Strategy and formation of Youth Council and program of recovery activities for Youth.

Engage with young people and liaise with local agencies and user groups.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.6.3.1 Promote and facilitate Youth Week and other events in partnership with Agencies to deliver programs and activities.

Develop Ageing Strategy.

Number of youth activities held in partnership with Council. Number of young people involved in organising events.

Youth Survey undertaken to seek youth input into activities for Youth Week 2022. Investigation into potential Youth activity resulted in Australian Esports League tournament held for Youth Week. Over 130 participants, exceeding organiser expectations.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.6.4.1 Consult with stakeholders and form a working group to develop an ageing strategy.

Adopt and implement by 2021/22.

Seniors Week grant provided for events held at Pioneer park, Aquatic Centre, Regional Theatre and Facility Bus Tour that were all well attended.

Maintain the Citrus Sculptures (Spring Fest) as one of Griffith's greatest community events.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

Maintain at least 70 sculptures. Measure increase of Facebook hits and reach and capture the diverse range of Griffith and number of volunteers engaged.

The 2022 Griffith Spring Fest program includes an abundance of community involvement, from sponsorship, garden entries, citrus sculpture applicants, market stall holders, food vendors, charities and more. Many volunteers and local businesses make this event possible and all events that fall under Griffith Spring Fest are extremely accessible to all demographics within the local community. We are extremely excited to hold this event in 2022 after two years of COVID 19 cancellations.

Promote Local Government and Griffith City Council through the organisation and coordination of Local Government Week activities.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.6.6.1 Provide suitable activities to promote Local Government Week and increase the public's awareness of Local



87

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

Government objectives and services.

Centenary Sculptures and Griffith Regional Theatre Curtain. Council volunteers were acknowledged with each receiving vouchers to use at the Theatre and Aquatic Centre. Council profiled members of the Senior Management Team on Facebook, keeping in with the theme "Locally Led". The Library hosted a Drug and Alcohol Information Hub as well as the Census pop up hub. Griffith Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre offered free classes for residents. A highlight of the week was the Citizenship Ceremony with 43 new residents being welcomed. Unfortunately Council's annual Mini Action Day for local year 4 students was cancelled due to COVID-19 restrictions however, all local schools received a book voucher to add to their libraries.

Promote reconciliation and embrace our Wiradjuri heritage and culture.

Aboriginal Community Engagement Protocol to be endorsed and implemented by Council.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.7.1.1 Implement recommendations from Aboriginal Community Engagement Protocol.

Report on progress to Communities Committee.



Council liaising with Local Aboriginal Land Council and Griffith Aboriginal Medical Service to deliver Reconciliation Action Plan review.

Review Aboriginal Reconciliation Plan and implement recommendations.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

4.7.2.1 Form Elders group and work with Community Working Group to inform the Aboriginal Reconciliation Plan.

4.7.2.2 Consult, and or partner with the local Aboriginal Community Working Party (CWP).

Report on progress to Reconciliation Australia and number of recommendations implemented.

Number of meetings held and number of events held in partnership.



Council liaising with Local Aboriginal Land Council.

Council continues to partner with the Griffith Local Aboriginal Land Council and Griffith Aboriginal Medical Service.

Promote a healthy and active lifestyle

Develop partnerships to improve local access to health, mental health and allied health services.

Lobby State Government to commit funding in forward estimates for renewal of Griffith Base Hospital.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

5.1.1.1 Monitor construction of new Base Hospital.

As required. 

Construction of Hospital on track for completion 2025.

Build a community which promotes, facilitates and supports an active and healthy lifestyle for all.

Maintain and renew playgrounds in accordance with the Playground Strategy.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

5.2.1.1 Manage and maintain playgrounds in accordance with the Playground Strategy.

Playground safety inspections carried out as per the schedule.



The upgrade of playground equipment at Wood Park is now complete along with BBQ'S and shelters.

Maintain Council's parks and reserves in accordance with Playground Strategy.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

5.2.2.1 Manage and maintain parks and reserves to the level of service.

Parks and reserves maintained within allocated budget.

Promote healthy lifestyle programs to the community.



The recent installation of new exercise equipment in the Women's Land Army Park at Hanwood will benefit the community along with the new Pump Track in Olympic Street.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

5.2.3.1 Collaborate with Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) to promote the Make Healthy Normal campaign.

Make Healthy Normal campaign promoted on Council's web page. Number of initiatives promoted.

Continue to build strong networks with sporting bodies.



Not a current campaign.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

5.2.4.1 Support local sporting organisations to host major meets in Griffith. Support and provide opportunities to host and promote sporting events.

Number of regional or state sporting events per year.

The tourism team consistently communicate with the local Sports Council to ensure all sporting events are supported. There have been a number of new sporting events come to Griffith as a result of all the new infrastructure. The Events Tourism Action Group (TAG), which includes Griffith Sports Council representatives, has also been established.

Plan for and provide sporting and recreational facilities to encourage an active lifestyle and wellbeing.

Maintain all Council's sporting ovals.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

5.3.1.1 Manage and maintain Council's sporting ovals to the level of service.

Sporting ovals maintained within allocated budget.



The Westend Oval complex is nearing completion, Jubilee Oval continues to accommodate School Athletics until the Westend Oval athletics complex is completed. The Bill Raymond Recreational Reserve is currently being utilised for the local Hockey competition until Westend Oval is completed also.

Implement capital upgrades to sporting and recreational facilities as funding becomes available through grants or otherwise.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

5.3.2.1 Seek grant funding for capital upgrades on sporting and recreational facilities.

Number of successful grants. 

Westend Oval and Jubilee Oval are currently being upgraded through grant assistance.

Griffith Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre (GRALC) to provide a range of services for the improved health, well being and lifestyle of the community.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

5.3.3.1 Provide a high standard of services and programs in the following areas: general swimming, swimming carnivals, swim school, gymnasium classes and programs, creche, swim squad, kiosk, gymnasium access.

Aquatic Centre is open a minimum of 4,200 hours per annum. Increase attendances by 5% year on year.

Griffith Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre (GRALC) has continued to provide programs and services over the course of the 2021/22 year. Significant challenges around staffing as a result of COVID have been managed effectively. On some days ancillary services such as creche and kiosk have had to shut in order to maintain core services but this has been minimised as much as possible. The facility remains a key fitness and educational facility for the City and the new 50M pool has been operating well over the summer months.

Griffith Stadium to provide a range of services for the improved health, well being and lifestyle of the community.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

5.3.4.1 Provide a clean, functional facility, available to the community.

Increased utilisation of the Stadium.

Compliance with Stadium Maintenance Schedule.

5.3.4.2 Construction of new 5 court stadium, 7 netball courts, synthetic athletics track and artificial track and artificial turf hockey pitch.

New amenities constructed by April 2022.

A major redevelopment of the Westend Oval site is currently underway and expected to be completed by the end of August. The existing stadium was shut down for a number of weeks at the end of 2021. As part of the major redevelopment, the existing stadium façade will be re painted and there has been major refurbishments to a number of amenities within the stadium.

Wet weather delays have been experienced, completion is expected by late August and operations to commence in early October once Occupation Certificate is finalised and a new Manager has been appointed.

Prepare a Master Plan for Olympic Street.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

5.3.6.1 Incorporate new Community Centre and Skate Park.

Master Plan delivered. 

Develop and keep current Master Plan for the 50 m Pool.

Delivered the new Pump Track and amenities in Olympic Street. Completed.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

5.3.7.1 Griffith Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre undertake public consultation.

Specifications finalised. 

The Master Plan has been completed as well as construction of the 50 metre outdoor pool.

Collaborate with Council staff to ensure recreational, road cycling and walking trails are incorporated in planning in and across the LGA, for locals and the visitor economy.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

5.3.8.1 Meet regularly with planning and engineering staff to incorporate pedestrian and cycling recreation in future planning.

Deliver Urban Design Projects.

Regular meetings held. 

Ongoing process. Involved in monthly Engineering coordination meetings.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

5.3.9.1 Scope, design and plan projects of city significance.

Number of projects delivered. 

Continuous process: Constantly involved in scoping, planning and designing projects of significance for the city of Griffith. Current projects include the recently completed Pump Track, Enticknap Toilet Block, Wood Park redevelopment and finalising Jubilee Oval Toilet Block. Borland Leckie playground development is in the design process. Involved in redevelopment of Kooyoo Street Stage 1.

Growing our city

Encourage our local economy to grow

Encourage and support the establishment of new and diversified industries and businesses.

Attract and host trade delegations to further promote business opportunities within the region.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

6.1.1.1 Develop and promote the Business Prospectus to attract new investment in the region.

Number of trade delegations to Griffith. Number of meetings held. Prepare new business prospectus.

Investment Prospectus 2022 ready for print. Western Riverina (WR) Connect Gate 4 Business Case at final approval.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

6.1.2.1 Utilise ABR data to determine newly registered ABN holders and send out invitations to come to Council for assistance. Attend regular meetings with business startups providing them with advice, information and useful contacts to further their business plan.

Number of meetings held or attended. 

Attended new business start up meetings throughout the year provided information and assistance. NSW Small Business Month also assisted start up businesses and established business connections.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

6.1.5.1 Continue to build strong business relationships and networks. Attend business events/breakfasts and facilitate meetings. Develop and promote the Griffith Business Prospectus.

Number of Business Prospectus copies distributed. Number of events attended. Number of promotional marketing activities undertaken for the prospectus.

2022 Investment Prospectus ready for print. Hosted RDA Riverina Economic Development Forum including bus tour and Western Riverina Economic Development Strategy update workshop.

Liaise with agencies to develop resources and training programs to assist small business to establish in the area.

Profile Griffith as a vibrant, contemporary regional hub, a great place to do business.

Promote opportunities to assist existing businesses to grow.

Partner, sponsor and promote professional development for local businesses.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

6.2.1.1 Partner with stakeholders to run events for local businesses including Griffith Women in Business, Griffith Business Chamber and Griffith Young Professionals.

Number of events per year. 

December Retail Business Support Events Glow 2680 Sidewalk Sale, Star Business Competition, Glow2680 Launch and late night shopping. All events were successful and local businesses provided positive feedback to hold sidewalk sales more regularly. Assisted with the delivery and promotion of the Griffith Women in Business keynote event with guest speaker Shaynna Blaze in February. Also ran 3 NSW Small Business Month events in collaboration with NSW Treasury, Candid Marketing & NBN Local. Held lunch with the Mayor special guest Katrina from .id with economic update. The Griffith Business Chamber and local member attended. 12 events were held this year.

Participate in the Small Business Friendly Councils Program and implement initiatives to promote the region as a place to do business.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

6.2.3.1 Continue to promote the Easy to do Business Program.

Number of new businesses signed up to Easy to do Business Program. Number of promotional marketing activities re: Easy to do Business Program.

Council ran 3 Small Business Month events in March with grant funding from NSW Government. The sessions provided participants with specific and general information that will assist them to rebuild, recharge and renew as we head out of COVID 19 lock downs and restrictions. The 3 sessions included tips on digital marketing tools, NBN business fibre and attracting skilled labour.

6.2.3.2 Griffith Now Hiring program to attract skilled workers.

Number of email open rate/social reach, number of Griffith Now Hiring enquiries, number of partners signed up.

40 Griffith Now Hiring partners registered, 100,000 youtube video views, 1 million Google ad impressions, 22,000 Google ad clicks. Website updated, 2023 renewals sent out. Council contributed to Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) employment video and assisted in promotion.

Plan strategically and consider land use management to encourage investment in the region. Implement best practice development guidelines.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

6.3.1.1 All DCPs prepared. DCP adopted. 

The new Griffith Residential Development Control Plan came into effect 17 August 2020. Other DCPs are anticipated to be completed by December 2022.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

6.3.2.1 Master Plan Lake Wyangan.

Adoption of Layout Plan for a fully covered recreational area, Potable Water Reticulated Master Plan, Sewerage Reticulation

Master Plan and Drainage Master Plan.



Further funding options to be investigated.

Promote and support diverse agricultural industries and encourage 'best practice'.

Communicate Griffith as a progressive agricultural region.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

6.4.1.1 Promote Griffith as the agricultural powerhouse of the Riverina, share good news stories across social platforms and profile in regional editorial. Source opportunities for new promotion and share good news stories across all platforms.

Number of media releases and number of media inclusions (TV, Radio, Print)



Better Homes and Gardens advertising and editorial, print and digital Country Style advertising and editorial, digital Out & About print Caravanning Australia print and digital Australian Community Media - print and digital Wanderer print and digital Travel Guides TV. Promote Griffith as a desirable visitor and tourism destination. Implement Griffith Marketing Plan in line with Destination Tourism Plan.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

6.5.2.1 Consistently implement and refer to the Marketing Plan working towards the goals and objectives identified in the Marketing Plan.

Number of objectives identified in Marketing Plan met.



With a number of large scale projects (website upgrade, new Visitor Guide and new ambassadors, new marketing strategy), we will be in a position to take our promotions to a new level, targeting appropriate audiences with streamlined, consistent messaging and a user friendly website that aligns with our visitor guide. Our Visit Griffith styleguide has been rolled out and the branding is being recognised as it is consistent among all collateral, including new website.

Grow major events and festivals.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

6.5.3.1 Implement marketing campaigns for Griffith Spring Fest, Griffith

Number of media inclusions 

First year since 2019 where all of our events are running again so we are working to grow these for future years. Funding has been secured for

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

Easter Party and Taste of Italy Griffith. Produce relevant collateral and arrange media opportunities accordingly.

6.5.3.2 Source opportunities for new, unique events and festivals. Working with tourism stakeholders and organisations.

(TV, radio and print) achieved.

Griffith Spring Fest with triannual funding which will help us for the longevity of the festival.

Number of new events added.



Seasonal What's On guides have been reinstated since COVID 19 and have been extremely well received. This has also educated and encouraged operators to hold and promote their events and working closer with the Tourism Team to ensure all events are spread consistently throughout the year to create a full calendar of events for Griffith.

Griffith Easter Party 2022 was a great success with new events added to this program.

A Taste of Italy Griffith in August 2022 has grown from 3 days in 2019 to 7 days in 2022 of events and experiences.

Griffith Spring Fest October 2022 program will be out shortly with an abundance of events and experiences included over a 2 week period. Many sporting events have also been booked in which will attract a high number of visiting attendees.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

6.5.4.1 Continually maintain significant digital platforms. Encourage feedback via digital platforms such as TripAdvisor, Google and Facebook. Facilitate listings of tourism stakeholders on digital databases such as ATDW and Visit Griffith website.

Increase in TripAdvisor and Google comments/reviews and record in the Tourism monthly report.

Engagement and reach achieved. Website hits, Facebook likes, and number of Instagram followers. Number of stakeholders listed.

Grow the conference and business event market.



Griffith's digital presence is continually growing, but will be a heavier focus on this once the new website is live and we can have this as our call to action.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

6.5.5.1 Identify gaps and build relationships with suppliers and facilitators. Encourage local event suppliers to establish profiles on

Number of conferences booked/arranged by VIC and Conference

New photography and videography have been created for the development of a new web page for business events through campaign collaboration with Destination Riverina Murray (DRM) and Destination NSW (DNSW). This content is also available through DNSW and

Increase Griffith's digital presence.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

relevant digital platforms. Proactively engage with potential business event organisers.

Guide provided.

Tourism Australia and we are starting to see attraction and inquires for business events.

Develop a new Visitor Guide and Ambassador Program.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

6.5.7.1 Develop a prospectus and encourage Ambassador support.

Complete and distribute guide every 2 years.

Prospectus is complete and Visitor Guide is nearly complete. Next we will endeavour to create a Partnership Proposal for our larger industry partners such as Aus Prunes, Almonds Australia etc, who will assist in promoting the region further.

Develop

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

6.5.8.1 Develop an annual program of activities and events at Pioneer Park to attract and engage a diverse demographic with facilities and collections.

Two large events and 4 smaller community engagement activities conducted each year.

The Museum has held a significant number of small and large events throughout the year so in that respect an annual program already exists. The target of two large events and 4 smaller community engagement activities to be conducted each year is on target as per following; 1.50 year celebration has been held with a number of events included.

2.Hosting GRAPA production

3.Australia Day event (BBQ/Movie) on 25 January 2022 (cancelled due to COVID 19) 4.Action Day (2021 cancelled due to COVID 19).

6.5.8.2 Identify key aspects of the collections and facilities and develop ways to promote these as featured tourist attractions.

6.5.8.3 Develop an annual marketing plan to promote the facility and actively engage with potential visitors.

6.5.8.4 Develop a range of educational and promotional resources, including digital resources, to promote the facility and actively engage with potential visitors.

6.5.8.5 Improve interpretive and directional

One aspect of collection identified and new promotional materials developed and circulated per year.

Increase annual visitation by 3 5 %.

Works have been ongoing with the restoration of the Baptist Church, Hospital and the Old Post Office which will include additional key exhibits to attract tourists.

Increase public engagement with Pioneer Park Museum social media by 5 10%

A new annual marketing plan for the Museum is expected to be prepared across the 2022/23 year.

Pioneer Park Museum continues to provide a range of educational and promotional resources, including digital resources, to promote the facility and actively engage with potential visitors on an annual basis.

New directional signage

To be completed with input from the new committee.

and manage Pioneer Park as a significant tourism attraction for the region.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

signage within Griffith Pioneer Park Museum.

installed by June 2021.

Work with new tourism related industries and build relationships.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

6.5.9.1 Build new industries into Griffith tourism product offering and ensure new industries and products are built into itineraries (both independent and groups).

Number of itineraries provided. 

A very busy and non traditional year in promoting Griffith and local tourism industry product development. Whilst visitation was limited due to lockdowns in Q1 & 2:

*worked with local potential agri tourism operators in developing new products

*conducted a full audit of Group Tour Operator Database (120+ operators) to ensure all contact details correct in preparation for new Group Tour Operator Folder in order to attract new and returning groups to Griffith. Sought new markets including car clubs, caravan clubs and garden clubs.

*developed new relationship with the corporate market and grew distribution of local produce hampers

Q3 & Q4 saw the return of visitors and the team working on the new Visit Griffith Ambassadorship, which involved sending out prospectus to potential ambassadors and managing application forms. From here, the content collection and management for advertisements in the Visit Griffith Visitor Guide commenced for the 103 ambassadors who signed up. Encourage a skilled workforce with employment opportunities

Increase the range of opportunities to work locally.

Identify opportunities for Council traineeships and work experience programs.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

7.1.1.1 Identify opportunities within organisation structure for potential traineeships.

Number of trainees and apprentices employed.



This is ongoing and reviewed regularly. 2 x Trainee Engineers, 1 x Apprentice Plumber, 1 x Trainee Building Surveyor, 3 x School Based Trainees. Number of trainees and apprentices employed x 7.

Attract new residents and skilled workers to the region to fill job vacancies.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

7.1.2.1 Griffith Now Hiring program to attract skilled workers.

Number of Griffith Now Hiring Newsletter subscribers. Participation in additional



Council sponsored RDA Riverina Country Change marketing program once again. Griffith one of the targeted regional pilots for the Multicultural NSW's Growing Regions of Welcome (NSW GROW) model.Council also assisted RDA Riverina to develop a new Grow Our Own video series for students to educate them on alternative career

Annual Report

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

regional programs. Number of regional program promotions.

pathways. All stakeholders and other local government areas in the Riverina have reported having trouble with skills shortages and accommodation/housing. Council has applied for BBRF6 and NSW Regional Housing Fund to unlock further housing opportunities. Griffin Green 20 town houses have commenced construction. There has also been discussion of a shortage in early childcare, especially new comers having trouble sourcing availability. Child care centres also have staff shortages and enquiring about Griffith Now Hiring Program.

Work with agencies including the RDA Riverina and Griffith Business Chamber to increase the range of opportunities to work locally.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

7.1.3.1 Regular meetings held with agencies to increase opportunities to work locally including the Grow our Own Committee.

3 meetings per year per agency. 

Activities undertaken to develop local workforce this year:

Council assisted Regional Development Australia (RDA) Riverina to develop a new Grow Our Own video series for students to educate them on alternative career pathways. GCC, Argyle, TAFE & Local Jobs Program collaborated to develop and program a free training program to upskill locals to a Certificate 2 in Construction over 16 weeks including work experience at the Griffin Green project Site Generations Griffith School based traineeships and apprenticeships information night hosted with TAFE

RDA Grow our Own planning with Marg Couch Grow our Own at Leeton Careers Expo Griffith Now Hiring marketing activities

Develop partnerships to build on quality education and training opportunities.

Support local providers of educational and skills programs.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

7.2.1.1 Educate and support the future growth of local businesses by assisting local businesses with enquiries and information required. Distribute monthly business newsletter promoting business news, events and grants.

7.2.2.1 Provide ongoing advocacy support to existing organisations

Number of Evolve newsletters mailed out. Number of promotional activities completed for educational and skills programs.

Council ran 3 Small Business Month events in March with Grant funding from NSW Government. The sessions provided participants with specific and general information that will assist them to rebuild, recharge and renew heading out of COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions. The 3 sessions included tips on digital marketing tools, NBN business fibre and attracting skilled labour.

Promote Country Universities

Promoted TAFE Griffith and Country Universities Centre (CUC) Western Riverina via newsletters and social media. Also contacted and keeping up to date as well as collaborated for events and training programs. Filmed Grow our Own new

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

delivering services locally.

Centre, TAFE and WRCC.

video featuring Council staff. Assisted with the Griffith Women in Business mentorship program.

Advocate for safe work practices and employment standards.

Provide a compliant Work Health Management system to meet legislative and organisational requirements.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

7.3.1.1 Undertake review of WHS policies. RTW Program reviewed annually. 

WHS policies reviewed.

Council is committed to the health and safety of all workers and continues to review and implement new policies and procedures as per relevant legislation. RTW Program reviewed 26 April 2022 by SMT. WHS Policies reviewed 21 June 2022 by WHS Committee.

7.3.1.3 Implement amendments to WHS Act and Legislation changes as required.

WHS Reporting to include Incident Reports, Workplace Investigations and Corrective Actions.

Number of WHS Committee meetings held.



Council is committed with supporting staff with mental health and has increased the number of mental health first aid officers, to ensure staff feel supported.

Council has also completed Health and Safety Representative training which provides staff with the ownership of improving work health and safety within their department.

Council continued to during the pandemic and has developed a number of policies and procedures to ensure the health and safety of all workers.

WHS reporting is carried out weekly with the Senior Management Team provided Incident Reports, Workplace Investigations and Corrective Actions.

Council held 6 WHS Committee Meetings: 21/6/22, 21/4/22, 17/2/22, 16/12/21, 21/10/21, and 23/9/21.

Promote Employee Health & Wellbeing within Council.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

7.3.3.1 Facilitate opportunities for training and policies to improve staff wellbeing.

Hold two Health and Wellbeing staff awareness programs.

Four Health and Wellbeing Articles annually.



Council has held a number of health and well being awareness programs which include, women's health talk which raised awareness on ovarian, breast, bowel and cervical cancer, men's health talk about mental health and resilience, health and skin checks, dietitian talk and the promotion of Councils Employee Assistance Program.

Council also provided a number of health and well being articles for staff which include how to be safe during COVID 19, information on mental health, men's health facts and asbestos awareness.

Council staff raised $1,191 for Movember. There were 6 Health and Wellbeing programs held Women's Health Talk, Movember, Cate Campbell resilience, WHS Month, Step Challenge and RUOK Day.

Seven articles shared EAP during Christmas, Men's Health facts during Movember, Asbestos

Annual Report

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

Awareness, Prostate Cancer Awareness, Online abuse in the workplace, Mental health how to have a conversation and COVID 19 information on being safe.

Provide and manage assets, services and facilities

Provide, renew and maintain a range of quality infrastructure, assets, services and facilities delivered in a cost effective and sustainable manner.

Maintain water infrastructure including reservoirs, mains and treatment plants.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.1.1.1 Manage and maintain water infrastructure as per budget.

Works completed as per budget allocation.

Griffith and Yenda Water Treatment plants, reservoirs and the water main reticulation system constantly maintained and operational in-line with budget allocation.

Maintain sewer infrastructure including pump stations, rising mains and treatment plants.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.1.2.1 Manage and maintain sewer infrastructure as per budget.

Works completed as per budget allocation.

Operation and maintenance of all sewer infrastructure is being carried out as per regulatory requirements and within Council's operational budget.

Plan and provide water and sewerage services that meet growth demands.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.1.3.1 Update Developer Service Plans (DSP) for water and sewerage to ensure adequate infrastructure plans in place for future demand.

Completion of DSP for water and sewerage June 2022.

Council has engaged consultants Cardno (now called Stantec) to review and update the Water and Sewer Developer Service Plans. The revised plans will be discussed and reported to Council in the next 6 to 12 months.

Design and construct reticulated water network to accommodate expansion of residential land releases.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.1.5.1 Design and construct water mains in accordance with allocated budget.

Complete designs and construction as required.

Trunk water mains have been constructed in accordance with the Developer Servicing Plans to suit the expansion of residential land.

Maintain water pressure zones and metered districts infrastructure.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.1.6.1 Monitor flows and pressure for variations, anomalies and flow patterns.

Compliance with minimum flow rate and pressure standards as per Supply Levels of Service policy.



Council has developed a hydraulic model of the drinking water reticulation network to enable better prediction of pressure and flow requirements within the existing and growth areas of the city and surrounding villages. This hydraulic model assists with analysing the ongoing monitoring of flows and pressures in pressure reduced zones for abnormalities and effectiveness to ensure Service Level Standards are maintained.

Maintain water meter replacement program to ensure meter age less than 10 years.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.1.7.1 Manage and maintain Griffith and villages water meter annual replacement program.

800 replacements per annum. 

Maintain an annual water mains replacement program.

Over 800 water meters replaced annually.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.1.8.1 Manage and maintain Griffith and villages water mains replacement program in accordance with allocated budget.

100% capital works for water mains completed by June 2022.



Capital works program for water mains and associated infrastructure completed in accordance with allocated budget.

Provide engineering design and referral services to internal departments within Council.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.1.9.1 Engineering design and referrals provided to Council departments.

Design progression and referrals reported quarterly.



Engineering referrals are progressing at an acceptable rate relative to workload and staff resources. This year has been a challenge due to the difficulties in recruiting qualified engineers. Traffic and road safety referrals are meeting designated timeframes. The Engineering Design Team is meeting Council's current capital works programs.

Provide gravel from the Tharbogang quarry to meet the demands of Council's road building projects.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.1.10.1 Gravel extraction to be carried out as per licence and development application requirements.

Gravel meets the demand required for Council roadworks whilst



There has been substantial development/planning for providing gravel into the future. It is thought that the two approved quarry sites will not be developed, rather use these sites as stockpile sites. Council has engaged a contractor to provide a minor modification application to the

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

maintaining extraction limits.

Department of Planning, Industry and Environment (DOPIE).

Maintain and develop infrastructure and services to bring together willing buyers and sellers of livestock in the Western Riverina region.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.1.11.1 Manage and maintain Griffith Livestock Marketing Centre within allocated budgets.

Griffith Livestock Marketing Centre maintained to facilitate and maximise the buying and selling of livestock with a target of 400,000 head of sheep and ability to sell cattle when required.

391,114 Sheep sold through the Livestock Marketing Centre 21/22.

8.1.11.2 Upgrade existing facilities to improve selling conditions for sheep yards.

Capital works to be maintained in the allocated budget each financial year.

Capital works such as replacement of concrete in the sheep pens and an additional shade cover over a section of the sheep pen selling area occurs annually as per budget allowance. In addition to these works, 2 new hydraulic sheep loading ramps have been installed to improve safety and loading efficiencies.

Efficiently manage and maintain Council's fleet services.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.1.12.1 Maintain a modern and suitable fleet to meet the requirements of Council's services and facilities.

Maintain 80% utilisation target of all fleet items.

Fleet has been maintained well and an utilisation report was completed in December 2021/January 2022. Utilisation is down on previous years due to the pandemic and staff requested to take excess leave. Recruitment has been difficult for sourcing mechanics in the workshop, contractors have been utilised in order to maintain fleet and plant. Council staff are considering alternative recruitment measures in order to fill the skills shortage identified for mechanics in Griffith.

8.1.12.2 Provide efficient fleet services to Council.

Minimise downtime of fleet through proactive maintenance and plant replacement.

Plant replacement program was completed although there are a number of items that have been ordered but not yet delivered. Delivery time frames on some items is excessive and can be as much as 18 months. The Parks and Gardens shed, including admin and parking areas, has been completed.

Advise on the delivery of a new Cemetery and Crematorium.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.1.13.1 Explore options for the new Cemetery and crematorium.

Location for the new Cemetery and Crematorium finalised.



Progress on a possible new crematorium will need to consider suitable site locations, partnership arrangements with the private sector and financial contributions. The Rifle Range Road new cemetery site master plan is required to be redesigned to reflect the concerns of the general facility committee with a focus on new survey and a noise assessment.

Provide cemetery facilities to meet the needs of the community.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.1.14.1 Manage and maintain Griffith, Yenda and Bagtown cemeteries within allocated budgets.

Cemeteries managed efficiently and to agreed service standards.



Construction of the New Lawn 6 is nearing completion.The number of lawn grave plots available are closely monitored to ensure the efficient operating of the Griffith Cemetery.

Maintain Griffith Airport infrastructure including terminal buildings, runways and carparks.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.1.15.1 Maintain and manage Griffith Airport in accordance with Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) standards.

8.1.15.2 Implement recommendations of annual CASA audit.

Completion of annual CASA audit. 

Griffith Airport is maintained and managed in accordance with Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) standards. Annual technical inspection complete and Technical Report received.

CASA recommendations implemented. 

Annual aerodrome inspection completed in December 2021. Technical report received. Implementation action plan prepared.

Ongoing review & assessment of Asset Management Plans for all asset classes.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.1.17.1 Review & update Asset Management Plans for Council infrastructure.

Provide annual report to Senior Management Team on status of Asset Management Plans by 30 June.



A combined Asset Strategy and Plans has been completed.

8.1.17.2 Complete cyclical Valuation Reviews on each Asset class as required under statutory guidelines.

Review of each Asset Class by 31 March annually.

Complete scheduled revaluation of each Asset Class according to revaluation



Valuations have been completed for buildings, land and other structures. Transport, storm water, water and sewer Asset valuations are nearing completion. Reporting will be completed by end of July.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

schedule by 31 March annually.

Develop a Business Process Manual for Asset Management.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.1.20.1 Develop a Business Process Manual that specifies how Council will procure and maintain asset inventory and spatial data and processes to ensure our asset data is kept relevant and up to date.

Business Process Manual maintained and kept up to date on an ongoing basis. Status report to Director Business, Cultural & Financial Services by 30 June annually.

Provide GIS services to the organisation.



Ongoing documentation of Assets and GIS processes and knowledgebase.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.1.21.1 Provide timely, responsive GIS services for Council.

Respond to GIS work requests within 48 hours. 

Review GIS data and implement metadata to GIS by 30 June 2021.

GIS services are being provided on an ongoing basis and GIS related CRMs (requests) are being actioned within agreed service levels.

Maintain street sweeping program to improve quality of stormwater run off.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.1.22.1 Manage and maintain street sweeping program.

Street sweeping undertaken as per program. 

Street sweeping undertaken as per program within the allocated budget.

Provide regular upkeep to ensure tourism facilities are attractive, accessible and social media friendly.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.1.23.1 Assess the Tourism Hub for required maintenance and upgrades.

Completion of quarterly safety meter. 

Safety meter checks completed every quarter. Maintenance/improvement projects complete this year include:

*Change over of all locks at the Tourism Hub to the bi lock system. This improved efficiencies and access for all staff to all working areas of the Tourism Hub.

*All external walls received a coat of paint and a new colour to modernise the facility and align with Visit Griffith branding/style guide.

*All old, faded/dull "i" signage replaced to align with the façade makeover, and updated ensure

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

compliance with accreditation requirements. *New split system installed in meeting room.

8.1.23.2 Audit of Tourism Assets and signage. Source funding/successful budget bids.

External painting of the Visitor Information Centre completed (Destination NSW Refresh & Renew funding), the Meeting Room and the Interpretive Display Area have also been finished (Capex). Budget bids have commenced for Stage 2, which will include the front counter and work stations (as they don't meet WH&S standards) and the gift shop.

Develop and implement a Strategic Asset Management Plan for Griffith Pioneer Park Museum.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.1.24.1 Maintain Up to Date Site Map showing services and assets.

8.1.24.2 Upgrade sewerage reticulation at Pioneer Park Museum and Caretaker's cottage.

Site Map is reviewed and updated annually by 30 June.

Pioneer Park public toilets and Myall Park Hall kitchen and caretaker's cottage connected to sewer by June 2021 (depending on grant funding availability)



The Assets Management Coordinator has reviewed the site in conjunction with the Technical Coordinator and updated the GIS/Mapping System with location of assets and services. A continuing process each year.

Completed and operational.

8.1.24.3 Program and carry out asset maintenance and pest control activities in accordance with Asset Maintenance and Restoration Plan. Review progress annually.

Annual asset maintenance and pest control activities are being conducted on an ongoing basis. Asset maintenance works include; Install new sewer connection Spreading and compacting access paths throughout the Park Gardening and installation of new landscaped areas

Restoration of Baptist Church.

Maintain and develop an effective transport network (public roads, pathways, pedestrian access and transport corridors) for Griffith and villages.

Implement Heavy Vehicle Strategy recommendations.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.2.1.1 Investigation, design and land acquisition for future stages of the Southern Industrial Link Road.

Complete investigation and design to identify land acquisition requirements.

Land acquisitions for the Southern Industrial Link Road have been completed and the engineering design plans have also been completed.

Maintain regional and local road infrastructure network as per adopted service standard.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.2.3.1 Maintain regional and local roads and traffic facilities to adopted service standards.

8.2.3.2 Develop and implement annual gravel re sheeting program.

8.2.3.3 Sealed roads rehabilitation program implemented in accordance with Asset Management Plan.

Works carried out within Council's allocated budget.

Works carried out within Council's allocated budget.

Works carried out within Council's allocated budget.



State, Regional and Local road infrastructure maintained within the allocated budget.



The resheeting budget allocation was spent with approximately 5% overrun. This has been due in part to significant increase in fuel prices impacting haulage rates. The budget has been covered by the overall roads allocation and will not impact Council's bottom line.



All allocated urban reseals were completed within budget and according to the proposed program. CBD upgrades to Stage 3 Yambil Street are 95% complete with new street assets yet to be installed and connection to power still under negotiation. Kooyoo Street upgrade works have progressed very well on a compact site with wet conditions for most of Autumn 2022.

8.2.3.4 Sealed roads reseals program implemented in accordance with Asset Management Plan.

Works carried out within Council's allocated budget.



Urban Roads Reseal Program was completed for 2021/22 within the allocated budget.

Develop and improve the transport network through rehabilitation and capital works.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.2.4.1 Construct roads in accordance with Capital Works Program.

Works carried out within Council's allocated budget.

Under difficult circumstances due to COVID 19, constructions were done. As most of the projects spread over 2 years, all the above projects will be completed in 2022 2023.

Although Griffith Southern Industrial Link (GSIL) 5B1 and 5B2 had time extension to complete by December 2023, priority was given to these projects over other projects because of the problems we were having with the landholder. Resource constraints, delay in delivery of construction materials and contractors availability are the risks in the completion of the projects.

8.2.4.2 Seal Boorga Road Works carried out within Council's allocated budget

8.2.4.3 Seal Dickie Road Works carried out within Council's

Stage A was completed in Q2. Delays were experienced with impacts from wet weather at the Fraser Road intersection. Council staff have taken a cautious approach to the land acquisition process and will re commence works once the survey plan and contract of sale have been registered.

No significant progress made in 2021/2022. Dickie Road with revised scope of works will be completed by April 2023.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment allocated budget.

Construction of the Southern Industrial Link Road (Heavy Vehicle Strategy).

Code

Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.2.5.1 Construct Bromley Road/Kidman Way intersection.

8.2.5.2 Construct Walla Avenue/Thorne Road intersection.

Works carried out within Council's allocated budget.

Works carried out within Council's allocated budget.



Works completed.



8.2.5.3 Construct Murrumbidgee Avenue/Thorne Road Intersection.

Works carried out within Council's allocated budget.

Investigate strategies to attract and maintain air services.



Priority was given to this project for early completion although time extension available to Dec 2023. Wet weather and staff/contractor availability due to COVID 19 extended the construction.

Construction of Murrumbidgee Avenue/Thorne Road Intersection will be completed by Dec 2022.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.2.6.1 Ongoing relationships with regional airlines.

Number of meetings held. 

Qantas and Rex airlines have recommenced building frequency capacity to pre COVID 19 levels, while Sharp Airlines have withdrawn services.

Improve the aesthetic of the City and villages, by developing quality places and improved public realm.

Initiate place activation projects in Griffith and villages.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.3.1.1 Implement a place activation project in the city centre of Griffith.

Report progress to CBD Working Group.

This is an ongoing process. The new Pump Track delivered in Olympic Street was the most recent activation in the Youth Precinct. Council received $386,000 as part of "Streets as shared spaces" funding to activate the parking area behind Memorial Park. Recently completed projects to activate areas include the new small stage in Memorial Park, as well as Wood Park Play area to activate the whole area. The provision of conduits for smart applications in Yambil Street is future proofing the street for future activation projects. The successful Street Scapes festival in Kooyoo Street activated the CBD during the month of May 2021. The infrastructure utilised such as the parklets will be used to activate other areas in the CBD. This festival also resulted in successful funding to turn the northern block of Kooyoo Street into a permanent plaza.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.3.1.2 Initiate place activation projects in the surrounding villages.

8.3.1.3 Investigate and prepare, where appropriate, place activation plans for the surrounding villages.

Investigate and prepare, where appropriate, place activation plans for the surrounding villages.



This is an ongoing process. Council has received $386,000 from Streets as Shared Spaces Round 2 for the activation of the car park behind Memorial Gardens. Urban Design is also assisting the villages with activation and aesthetic approval projects.

Report progress to CBD Working Group. 

This is ongoing. Drafting a Place Activation Strategy for both Griffith and the Villages.

Deliver entrance statements at the main entrances into the City of Griffith in keeping with the Griffith Entrance Strategy.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.3.2.1 Finalise and adopt the Griffith Entrance Strategy.

Griffith Entrance Strategy and relevant action is adopted.



Council received $100k Grant funding toward construction of 3 entrance signs. The 3 signs as well as 2 club signs were installed. The Entrance Strategy still needs to be adopted by Council. Urban Design is preparing draft landscape plans at the new entrance signage.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.3.3.1 Design phase two and three of the Yambil Street Upgrade.

Design specifications for tender documentation has been prepared.



Completed.

Liaise and support CBD Strategy Working Party in implementing Place Creation Strategies.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.3.4.1 Support the CBD Strategy Working Group with decision making process.

Regular meetings with the Urban design team and meeting with the CBD Working Group.

Provide specialist advice to strategic projects.

The CBD Working Party has ceased to exist. Community consultation conducted as required.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.3.5.1 Consult and evaluate projects where needed.

Number of projects delivered. 

This is an ongoing process. Council has received $386,000 from Streets as Shared Spaces Round 2 for the activation of the car park behind Memorial Gardens. Urban Design is also assisting the villages with activation and aesthetic approval projects.

Deliver streetscape upgrades to Yambil Street, Kooyoo Street and Olympic Street consistent with the Griffith CBD Strategy.

Mitigate the impact of natural disasters.

Retain formal relationships through the Floodplain Management Committee and appropriate government agencies for planning, funding and response to flooding.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.4.1.1 Complete investigation, design and implementation of flood mitigation measures in accordance with OEH funding guidelines.

Report to Floodplain Management Committee and OEH on progression of funded works.



Hanwood Flood Mitigation Project: Council is currently in negotiation with the contractor for (i) Hanwood Stormwater Pump and associated pipework project (stage 1a), and (ii) Construction of Hanwood levee project (Stage 2). Electrical and SCADA works for the pump will be done in house and their design and procurements have started. The project has been delayed due to ongoing COVID cases.

Yoogali Flood Mitigation Project: Council is currently preparing tender documentation for Yoogali McCormack Road Levee and raising of Burley Griffin Way as a levee project. The project has been delayed due to ongoing COVID cases.

Lead and guide the local emergency community through participation in the Local Emergency Management Committee.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

8.4.2.1 Facilitate Local Emergency Management Committee meetings quarterly.

Meetings held and recommendations implemented.



Meetings were held quarterly and well attended by representatives of all emergency services, identified combat agencies and stakeholders. When the usual delegate was unable to attend a substitute delegate was nominated to participate. Council has continued to receive support from the LECON (Local Emergency Controller) and REMO (Regional Emergency Management Officer).

Valuing our environment

Enhance the natural and built environment

Encourage considered planning, balanced growth and sustainable design.

Manage and maintain an efficient Development Application process as per legislative requirements.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

9.1.1.1 Implement the Planning Department service review.

9.1.1.2 Implement the outcomes and recommendations of the Development Assessment Review.

9.1.1.3 Deliver Development Application Referral responses for developments within the Griffith LGA.

9.1.1.5 Respond to Development Application Referrals for all Environmental Matters.

Service review milestones achieved. 

Good quality assessment, average turnaround time of 40 days.

Respond within 10 working days. 

All Development Applications assessed and conditioned/ann.



ePlanning Portal now live.

Completed.

Referrals processed as required.

Development Application Referrals for all Environmental matters were actioned as required.

Investigate and regulate unauthorised building works and land use.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

9.1.3.1 Review and implement protocols to deal with unauthorised building works and land use.

9.1.3.2 Develop a compliance database.

Number of matters investigated and finalised.

Compliance database created.

Ranger Procedural Manual provided by S&KP Larsen Pty Ltd used. Environmental Planning and Assessment Act (Schedule 5) and Regulations.

Database constantly updated in Electronic Data Management (EDM) and Customer Request Managements (CRMS) assist monitoring of workload. Full review of compliance related CRMS completed with minor follow up work and close down actions also completed and monitored on a weekly basis as part of the weekly compliance meeting agenda (standing item).

Provide guidance on potential development, construction and planning issues.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

9.1.4.1 Hold regular forums with developers, consultants and stakeholders.

Annual forums held. Number of pre lodgement meetings addressed.

This action has been completed for 2022 and a forum meeting scheduled for the 5 May with developers, consultants and stakeholders invited.

Deliver timely responses to general inquiries and complaints from the public within the Griffith LGA.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

9.1.5.1 Respond to general inquiries and complaints from the public for all Food Business and Public Health Matters.

9.1.5.2 Respond to general inquiries and complaints from the public in relation to Environmental Matters.

Respond to general inquiries and resolve complaints from the public

Respond to general inquiries and complaints from the public.

Actioned as required.

Timely responses delivered to general inquiries and complaints from the public within the Griffith LGA.

Maintain Council processes consistent with Department of Planning and Environment requirements.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

Compliance with Department of Planning and Environment requirements.

This is ongoing with focus on Development Assessment, Building Surveying Compliance processes. Development assessment processes were audited by Internal Auditor and only minor adjustments were required which are documented and will be addressed.

Deliver full reviews of Review of Environmental Factor (REF) documentation required under Part 5 of the EP&A Act.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

9.1.7.1 Review and assess REF's and associated technical reports submitted to Council. 

Review of Environmental Factor (REFs) and associated technical reports are reviewed in a timely manner.

Review the LEP, DCP and DC's to reflect Urban Microclimate Design principles linking urban climate, water sensitive urban design (WSUD), green infrastructure and human health from street to city scale.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

9.1.8.1 Define key Urban Micoclimate Design Key Urban Microclimate Design

111

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

principles and source funding. principles 25% complete.

Provide efficient building certification services, including issuing construction certificates, complying development certificates and occupation certificates as per legislative requirements.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

9.1.9.1 Update Standard Operating Procedures.

9.1.9.2 Issue construction certificates, complying development certificates and occupation certificates within a timely manner.

9.1.9.3 Carry out critical stage inspections in accordance with relevant legislation.

SOP updated.  Ongoing. DA Review finalised.

Average turn around time for all applications to be 10 business days or less.



Construction certificates, complying development certificates and occupation certificates assessed and issued in a timely manner.

Number of critical stage inspections. 

Regulate swimming pool barrier compliance.

All critical stage inspections requested during this period, carried out.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

9.1.10.1 Maintain and implement the Private Swimming Pool Inspections Program.

9.1.10.2 Assess applications for Swimming Pool Certificates of Compliance.

All pools within the Local Government Area to be inspected once every 3 years.

Certificate of compliance or compliance notice to be issued within 7 days of receipt of an application.



Swimming pool inspection program undertaken in accordance with the policy.

9.1.10.3 Investigate complaints relating to swimming pool barrier non compliance and take action to regulate non compliance.

All complaints shall be followed up within 2 days of receiving the complaint.

All swimming pool certificates assessed for the period.

Any complaints received in this period relating to swimming pool barrier non compliances have been investigated and finalised.

Fire Safety of Buildings.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

9.1.11.1 Maintain a register of Annual Fire Safety Statements for commercial premises.

All Annual Fire Safety Statements to be entered.



The register for Annual Fire Safety Statements has been consistently maintained throughout the period.

Develop partnerships with the community and government agencies to care for the environment.

Develop Griffith City Council On Site Sewage Management (OSM) Plan.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

9.2.1.1 Develop structure for OSM Plan, determine process for capturing OSM information within Authority, HP Records Manager & Intramaps and commence development of OSM Plan.

On Site Sewage Management (OSM) Plan complete.

Draft plan under review Policy under development.

Deliver projects to protect and improve biodiversity and biosecurity.

Deliver a Weeds of National Significance eradication and control program.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

9.3.1.1 Manage and maintain Council's obligations under the Biosecurity Act.

Number of inspections and spraying programs undertaken.

Considerable eradication is being achieved of classified weeds such as African Boxthorn and Prickly Pear along various road corridors within the Local Government Area (LGA).

Development of Griffith City Council Roadside Vegetation Management Plan.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

9.3.2.1 Develop and distribute Community Advisory Materials in relation to Roadside Vegetation Management including Legislative responsibilities and Regulation.

Development and distribution of Community Advisory Materials 100% completed.

Value and protect our heritage buildings and precincts.

Review heritage database and study.

Handbook prepared and distributed. Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping implemented.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

9.4.1.1 Respond to requests for heritage consideration.

Number of heritage matters considered.

Not progressing.

Annual Report

Develop State of the Environment Report for Griffith City Council.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

9.4.2.1 Establish environmental indicators, report on and update environmental trends, identify major environmental impacts.

Improve sustainable land use.

State of the Environment Report 100% completed.



State of the Environment Report developed as part of the End of Term Report 2021

Develop a Contaminated Land (CL) Register for Griffith City Council LGA.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

9.5.1.1 Determine process and identify CL sites for Register, determine process for capturing CL information within Authority, HP Records Manager & Intramaps (the Register) and source funding.

CL sites identified 25% complete. CL register 25% complete.



No action this quarter.

Regulate and inspect Underground Petroleum Storage Systems (UPSSs) (Priority Fuel Stations) within the Griffith LGA.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

9.5.2.1 Identify all Fuel Station sites in Griffith LGA. Develop tablet based platform for the undertaking and delivery of UPSS site.

Register of all UPSS complete. 

This action has been completed, just requiring trial inspection and then roll out.

Monitor Underground Petroleum Storage Systems (UPSS) in Griffith LGA as required under the Protection of the Environment Operations UPSS Regulation 2019.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

9.5.3.1 UPSS inspection program. Undertake UPSS in accordance with inspection program.

Risk rating completed in November 2021 with the assistance from RAMJO/REROC. Underground Petroleum Storage Systems (UPSS) Inspection Procedure to be developed.

Use and manage our resources wisely

Manage Griffith's water resources and water quality responsibly. Offer rebates for water efficient devices.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

10.1.1.1 Rebate program for water efficient devices provided.

Number of rebates provided.

Rebate program available ongoing.

Maintain Risk Based Drinking Water Management System in accordance with State Government requirements.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

10.1.2.1 Review and update if required Risk Based Drinking Water Management System.

Risk Based Drinking Water Management System prepared in accordance with legislative requirements.

Compliance with Australian Drinking Water Guidelines and results published monthly on Council's website.



Producing water complying with Australian Drinking Water Guidelines. Results published monthly on Council's website.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

10.1.3.1 Commence implementation of 3 priority LW&CM Strategy recommendations and source funding.

Implementation measures determined once priority actions agreed. Funding measures determined once priority actions agreed.

Proposal to prepare a detailed business case for consideration by Water Infrastructure prepared, but unsuccessful. Lake capacity determined. Reduce

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

10.2.1.1 Establish baseline data of fleet energy consumption.

Fleet energy consumption data prepared by December 2021.

No progress in this area.

Commence Lake Wyangan and Catchment Management Project.

Liaise with local energy provider to maintain and upgrade street lighting.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

10.2.2.1 Identify and implement opportunities to improve street lighting.

Street lighting issues identified and reported to Essential Energy. Implement new technologies as they become available.

Continue to undertake Energy Audits on Griffith City Council facilities.

Council staff have continued to participate and be proactive in liaising with Essential Energy in various consultation sessions. The new LED network is performing well and for the 2021/22FY minimal outages were identified and when they occurred Essential Energy responded quickly to rectify them.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

10.2.3.1 Complete Energy Audit on GCC's buildings.

Number of audits undertaken.

Energy Audits completed.

Provide environmentally sustainable waste management services. Continually upgrade the existing waste management centres to provide waste handling to accommodate the current and future needs of the community.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

10.3.1.1 Continue utilisation and upgrading of existing landfilling facilities.

Statutory reports submitted in accordance with licencing requirements.

Encourage resource recovery and kerbside recycling.

There was a lot of progress in the 4th reporting quarter, in respect to development, planning and future design for the Waste Management Facility as a whole.

Moving forward it is anticipated that the pace for development, planning and future design will maintain and possibly increase in the future to keep up the expected change/development.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

Provide relevant information to the community in relation to resource recovery services.

Maintain waste collection services for the Griffith LGA.

Through Council's collection contract there is an education component, where a number of public initiatives are used to make the public aware of the importance of resource recovery.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

10.3.3.1 Provide commercial, street and park bin collections. 

The Commercial Collection team is undergoing a change, with the team leader transitioning into retirement. Council has been actively seeking a person who can take on the job as a "runner". Being a small team it is vital that the right person is employed to ensure a seamless transition.

116

Ensure that contractor is servicing the domestic and recycling bin network as per contract.

10.3.3.3 Replace and repair domestic and commercial bins when required. 

Local

Organics

Collection Service for the

feasibility for Garden Organics (GO) only or Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) waste collection (kerbside, public place and business) organics diversion service.

Action planned 2021/22.

The Domestic Waste and Recycling Collection service is being provided to meet Council's delivery standards. It is important to note that it has been challenging for the collection contractor to maintain the kerbside collection, with the impacts of COVID 19. It reduced driver stocks considerably in some months, however the bins are still collected even though times may vary.

The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) are looking at mandating the introduction of a Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) service. At this stage implementation is uncertain. Once more information is provided by the EPA this will be communicated to and workshopped with Council.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

funding for Renewable Energy Master Plan. Rejoin OEH Sustainability Advantage program.

commenced. Source funding for Renewable Energy Master Plan.

Increase Resilience to Climate Change (IRCC) through implementation of actions to address identified climate change risks and vulnerabilities within the Griffith LGA.

Code Action Measure Status Annual Comment

10.5.3.1 Submit funding application/s for individual Council funding addressing key identified climate change risks and vulnerabilities.

Submit 1 2 IRCC funding application/s addressing urban heat/stormwater capture and reuse.



Monitoring available grants.

Statutory Reporting

Griffith City Council Annual Report

Statutory reporting includes the information that is prescribed by the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021. This information has been included because the Government believes that it is important for community members to know about it – to help their understanding of how Council has been performing both as a business entity and a community leader.

Within 5 months after the end of (financial) year, prepare a report as to council’s achievements in implementing its delivery program and the effectiveness of the principal activities undertaken in achieving the objectives at which those principal activities are directed. Local Government Act 1993 (Act) s 428(1)

A report on Council’s performance for 2021/22 using outcomes from Griffith City Council’s Four Year Delivery Plan is presented in Section 4.

The annual report of the year in which an ordinary election of councillors is held, must contain council’s achievements in implementing the community strategic plan over the previous four years Act s 428(2)

A report on Council’s achievements in implementing the Community Strategic Plan is presented as appendix: End of Term Report 2016-2021.

The annual report must be prepared in accordance with Integrated Planning and Reporting Guidelines (IP&R) Act s 428(3)

This annual report is a key point of accountability between Griffith City Council and our community. It focuses on Council’s implementation of the Delivery Program and Operational Plan which are the plans that are wholly Council’s responsibility.

This Annual Report has been prepared in accordnace with IPR Guidelines.

Must contain a copy of the Council’s audited financial reports prepared in accordance with the Local Government Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting (may be an attachment) Act s 428(4)(a)

Council’s audited financial reports for the 2021/22 financial year are presented from Section 6 - Financial Summary & Financial Statements, to be inserted 12 December 2022.

Must contain other information as the IP&R Guidelines or the regulations may require Act s 428(4) (b)

This Annual Report has been prepared in accordance

with the IP&R Guidelines.

Copy of the council’s annual report must be posted on the council’s website and be provided to the Minister for Local Government (via OLG). This can be done by notifying the OLG of a URL link Act s 428(5)

A copy of this annual report is available on Council’s website, with a copy also provided to the Minister for Local Government (the Minister).

Include particulars of any environmental upgrade agreement entered into by the council Act s 54P (1)

Nil

Report on activities funded via a special rate variation of general income including:

•reporting requirements set out in the Instrument of Approval

•projects or activities funded from the variation •outcomes achieved as a result of the project or activities Special Rate Variation Guidelines* (SRV Guidelines) 7.1

Griffith City Council did not apply for any special variation of expenditure during the 2021/22 financial period. A Special Rate Variation will be implemented in 2022/23.

Amount of rates and charges written off during year Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 (Reg) cl 132

In accordance with Clause 132 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021, set out below are details of rates and charges written off during the 2021/22 rating year.

Pensioner abandonments

Rates 303,774

Charges 197,803 TOTAL 501,577

Other abandonments

Rates 1,088

Rates Subsidy (Refer to Council’s policy RTES – Payment of Community Or-ganisations FS-CP-202)

50,259

Water Undetected Leak (Undetected Leak - Policy WS – CP-209) 14,876

Nature Strips Allowance 3,232 Charges 1,614

TOTAL 71,069 GRAND TOTAL 572,646

Information about induction training and ongoing professional development, the names of any mayor or councillors who completed any induction training course, induction refresher course or supplementary induction course during the year, the names of any mayor or councillors who participated in any ongoing professional development program during the year, the number of seminars, circulars and other activities delivered as part of the ongoing professional development program during the year. Reg cl 186

Course When Councillors registered

Country Mayor’s Association 5 November 2021Cr Dal Broi

Country Mayor’s Association 10/11 March 2022 Sydney Cr Curran

Country Mayor’s Association 26/27 May 2022Cr Curran

Floodplain Management Australia National Conference 17-20 May Toowoomba Cr Sutton

LG NSW 2022 Destination and Visitor Economy Conference 17-19 May 2022 Orange, Blayney, Cabonne

Cr Stead

LG NSW Annual Conference 29 November 2021 Online Cr Dal Broi, Cr Napoli, Cr Mercuri

LG NSW Special Conference 28 Feb – 2 March 2022 Sydney Crs Curran & Mercuri

LG Professionals Awards 26 May 2022 Sydney Cr Curran

Local Government Water Management Conference 7 – 9 July 2021 Narrabri Cr Curran, Cr Simpson

National General Assembly of Local Government19-22 June 2022 Canberra Cr Curran, Cr Andreazza, Cr Singh Lally, Cr Blumer

NSW Local Roads Congress 6 June 2022 Sydney Cr Andreazza

Regional Cities NSW 23/24 March 2022 Sydney Cr Curran

Regional Cities NSW 11/12 May 2022 Sydney Cr Curran

In addition to the above seminars and conferences, Councillors are provided with current information through a weekly Councillors Information Sheet, which provides Councillors with OLG Circulars, OLG Media Releases, Weekly newsletters.

Provision of dedicated office equipment allocated to councillors (ICT Hardware and purchases): $27,343.19 Telephone calls made by councillors (ICT Phone & Data pack running expenses): $2,702.68

Attendance of Councillors at confrences and seminars and the provision of induction training and professional development for Mayor and other Councillors and training of Councillors and skill development: $66,262.54

Councillors were registered to participate in the following online OLG Webinars as part of the Hit the Ground Running induction program: Roles & Responsibilities, IP&R, Internal Audit, The Governing Body & Financial Management of Councils, Appropriate Conduct & Ethical Decision Making, Working Together, Local and Regional Strategic Planning, Intro to Crown Land, Native Title & Aboriginal Land Rights, Water Make it Your Business, Ongoing Professional Development and Making the Most of Meetings.

Councillor Induction Program and Attendance Record

Councillor IT Induction Setting Yourself up for Success in Elected Life Locale Webinar

Andreazza

Induction Workshop –Working TogetherLocale

Induction Workshop – Code of Conduct - Locale

Induction Workshop –In-house

Induction WorkshopCode of Meeting Practice –Locale Webinar

Cyber Security Webinar Jan 202211/1/202212/1/202213/1/202218/1/202224/1/202223/2/2022

New Councillor Induction CourseLocale 24/2/22Mar/Apr 2022Mar/Apr 202227/05/2022 TBA May-Sep Andreazza

Blumer

Croce Curran

Ellis

Lally

Marin Napoli

Expenses involved in provision of care for a child of, or an immediate family member of, a councillor: Nil

Details of each contract awarded for amounts greater than $150,000 including: •name of contractor (except employment contracts – contracts of service), nature of goods or services supplied and total amount payable Reg cl 217(1)(a2) (i), (ii)

Legal Expenses

Armstrongs Plant Hire Pty LtdConstruction of Jubilee Amenities Block Car Park $190,869

Pressure System Solutions Pty LtdGriffith Sewer Pumpstation Augmentation Works $390,965

Downer EDI Works Pty LtdSupply Deliver & Lay Asphalt on the Lake Wyangan Avenue $244,944

B & C Plumbing Pty Ltd Kooyoo Street ReconstructionBanna to Yambil $1,187,460

R&H Maugeri Pty LtdJ&J Security

Provision of Security Services of Council Properties $752,502

WesTrac Pty Ltd Supply and Delivery of New Wheel Loader $338,250

Hino Motor Sales Australia Pty LtdSupply and Delivery New 6x4 cab chassis with water tank and spray $275,000

WesTrac Pty Ltd Supply and Delivery of New CCF Class 15 Motor Grader $406,505

WesTrac Pty Ltd Supply and Delivery of New Multi Tyred Roller $196,036

Isuzu Australia Limited Supply and Delivery of New Isuzu NMR 45-150 ATM Cab Chassis Truck

$266,421

Fuso Truck and Bus Supply and Delivery of One New Truck Cab Chassis $181,394

Duratec Limited Concrete Remediation Services for GWTP Stage 1 & GWRP $1,502,777

B & C Plumbing Pty Ltd Hanwood Stormwater Pump & Levee $2,919,681

RN Mitchell T/A RNCO

Supply & Install Fencing Tharbogang Waste Management $151,200

Rosmech Sales & Service Pty LtdSupply and Delivery of New Dual Control Suction Sweeper $281,224

Construction Equipment AustraliaSupply and Delivery of New Self Propelled Smooth Drum Roller $184,690

Isuzu Australia Limited Supply and Delivery of New Cab Chassis Truck $289,330

World Trail Pty Ltd Design & Construct Pump Track Olympic Street $269,912

B&C Plumbing G3 Sewer Rising Main Erskine Road and Kidman Way $187,698

Colin Joss & Co Pty Ltd Construction of 20 Townhouses$8,590,150

Summary of the amounts incurred by the council in relation to legal proceedings including:

• amounts incurred by council in relation to proceedings taken by or against council (including out of court settlements)

• summary of the state of the progress of each legal proceeding and (if finalised) the result Reg cl 217(1) (a3)

Council’s total expenditure on legal expenses during 2021/22 was $83,326.82 which was expended on items such as legal advice, lease, and licence and agreement preparation.

Legal proceedings undertaken during 2021/22 comprised:

Item Status Complete/OngoingAmount

Debt Recovery - Rates Ongoing $87,838.65

Debt Recovery - Accounts Receivable Ongoing $2,708.19

Compliance Fines Expenses Ongoing $230.56

Dog Control & Impounding Ongoing $335.36

Litter Fines Legal Expenses Ongoing $209.60

Parking Fines Ongoing $29,733.36

Governance – Legal Fees Ongoing $45,264.34

Legal Expenses - Miscellaneous (Water Fund) Legal FeesOngoing $33,852.74

Waste Management Legal Fees Complete $1,743.00

Development Assessment - Working Expenses Legal FeesOngoing $83,326.82

Union – Industrial Relations Legal Expenses Ongoing $17,901.00

TOTAL $303,143.62

Include resolutions made concerning work carried out on private land, including: • details or a summary of any resolutions made under section, and • details or summary of any work carried out, where the charge is less than the approved fee, the proposed feed to be charged and the total amount subsidised by council Reg cl 217(1)(a4) & Act s 67, 67(2) (b) 67(3)

At the Ordinary Meeting of Council held in 22 June 2021, Council adopted its Delivery Program and Operational Plan 2021/22 including specific Fees and Charges for private works to be undertaken in 2021/22.

During 2021/22 works were undertaken on behalf of private individuals in accordance with Council policies. A resolution of Council was not required to undertake private works as Council did not charge an amount less than the approved fee for any of the works undertaken in 2021/22.

Total amount contributed or otherwise granted to financially assist others Reg cl 217(1) (a5) & Act s 356

During 2021/22 the total amount contributed by Council for contributions or grants under Section 356 of the Local Government Act 1993 was: $195,325.23. This included a community grants program of: $46,183.78. Sporting body subsidies and seed funding sponsorship were also awarded.

Statement of all external bodies, companies and partnerships exercising functions delegated by Council cl 217(1) (a6)

Council did not delegate any function to an external body in the 2021/22 financial year.

Statement of all corporations, partnerships, trusts, joint ventures, syndicates or other bodies in which Council held a controlling interest cl 217(1)(a7)

Council has once again been a member or a party to a number of cooperatives and partnerships.

Western Riverina Libraries (WRL)

WRL is a cooperative Library agreement between five member councils – Griffith City Council, Carrathool Shire Council, Hay Shire Council, Murrumbidgee Council and Narrandera Shire Council – operating since 1971. WRL comprises five branch libraries and two mobile libraries across the five Local Government Areas.

South West Zone Digital Library

WRL continues to be a member of the South-West Zone Digital Library (SWZDL). A consortium of public libraries in South West NSW, including WRL provide a digital library collection of eBooks, eAudiobooks and eMagazines.

Griffith Health Facilities Limited

Griffith City Council has a 100% controlling interest in Griffith Health Facilities Limited.

Country Universities Centre Western Riverina

CUC Western Riverina was officially opened in October 2019 as an affiliate of Country Universities Centre. Griffith City Council, Leeton Shire Council and NSW Government provide support so that regional and rural communities have access to quality opportunities to pursue their dreams and fulfil their potential through higher education without the need to relocate.

Griffith Community Centre Council continues to work closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure the state-of-the-art youth and community centre operates for the community to utilise.

Griffith Affordable Housing Project Council has partnered with Argyle Community Housing to develop affordable housing in the City.

Statement of all corporations, partnerships, trusts, joint ventures, syndicates or other bodies in which the council participated during the year Reg cl 217(1) (a8)

Murrumbidgee Irrigation Council works closely with Murrumbidgee Irrigation (MI) in relation to water.

Transport for NSW (TfNSW) Council works with TfNSW to ensure roads in the region are safe for motorists.

Department Communities and Justice Council works in partnership to improve the wellbeing of people in social housing.

Griffith Local Aboriginal Land Council Council works in partnership to improve land management techniques.

Easy to do Business (now Service NSW for Business)

Griffith City Council, in partnership with Service NSW, is making it easy to do business, with streamlined forms and one phone number to help fast track the approval process when opening a café, small bar or restaurant.

Riverina Local Land Services

Griffith City Council is part of the group of Councils who make up the Riverina Local Land Services.

Riverina and Murray Joint Organisation (RAMJO)

Griffith City Council is a member of the Riverina and Murray Joint Organisation (RAMJO).

Charles Sturt and Deakin University and TAFE Riverina

Together we actively support and develop higher education opportunities for the Griffith community.

Regional Development Australia – Riverina

Regional Development Australia-Riverina (RDA-Riverina) is a national network of committees fostering regional economic development.

Western Riverina Arts Inc

Western Riverina Arts (WRA) is a not-for-profit organisation that works in partnership with member councils: including Griffith City Council to support, develop and promote arts and culture in the Western Riverina.

Statement of all corporations, partnerships, trusts, joint ventures, syndicates or other bodies (whether or no incorporated) in which the council participated during the year. Reg cl 217(1)(a8) Nil

Statement of activities to implement its EEO management plan Reg cl 217(1) (a9)

Griffith City Council remained committed to the principles of Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) during 2021/22. Council is committed to providing an environment where employees and others in the workplace are treated fairly and with respect, and are free from unlawful discrimination, harassment, and vilification and bullying. We ensure that when employment decisions are made, they are based on merit, not on irrelevant attributes or characteristics that an individual may possess. Council also tries to create a work environment which promotes good working relationships. The Human Resources section continues to provide information to new staff on Council’s associated policies and practices during Induction Programs promoting a workplace culture displaying fair workplace practices and behaviours, a diverse and skilled workforce and improved employment access and participation by EEO groups.

Statement of the total remuneration package of the general manager Reg cl 217(1) (b) (i), (ii), (iii), (iv), (v) including:

• total value of the salary component of the package

• total amount of any bonus, performance or other payments that do not form part of the salary component

• total amount payable by way of the employer’s contribution or salary sacrifice to any superannuation scheme to which the general manager may be a contributor

• total value of any non-cash benefits for which the general manager may elect under the package

• total amount payable by way of fringe benefits tax for any such non-cash benefits.

The total remuneration package for the General Manager for the 2021/22 period in respect of his employment was $310,991.48 which includes: Salary component $287,423.52 and superannuation and other $23,567.96

Statement of the total remuneration packages of all senior staff members, expressed as the total (not of the individual members) Reg, cl 217(1)(c) (i), (ii), (iii), (iv), (v) including:

•total value of salary components of their packages

•total amount of any bonus, performance or other payments that do not form part of salary components of their packages

•total amount payable by the council by way of the employer’s contribution or salary sacrifice to any superannuation scheme to which any of the may be a contributor

•total value of any non-cash benefits for which any of them may elect under the package

•total amount payable by way of fringe benefits tax for any such non-cash benefits

Council employs six senior staff members, the General Manager, Director Utilities, Director Infrastructure and Operations, Director Sustainable Development, Director Business, Cultural & Financial Services, and Director Economic & Organisational Development.

All senior staff members are on performance based contracts (in accordance with the Local Government Act, 1993).

The total remuneration cost of senior staff members for the period 1 July 2021 to 30 June 2022 was: $1,443,286

The annual remuneration paid to directors for year ending 30 June 2022 was as follows: Salary Component $1,317,261.64 Superannuation and other $126,024.55 Total $1,443,286.19

Statement of total number of persons who performed paid work on Wednesday 25 May 2022, including, in separate statements, total number of:

·persons employed by the council on a permanent full-time, permanent part-time or casual basis or under a fixed-term contract

·persons employed by the council as senior staff members, ·persons engaged by the council, under a contract or other arrangement with the person’s employer, wholly or principally for the labour of the person ·persons supplied to the council, under a contract or other arrangement with the person’s employer, as an apprentice or trainee Reg cl 217 (1)(d) (i),(ii),(iii),(iv)

Total number of persons employed by Council: 367. Full-time: 232. 51 - Part-time: 51. Casual: 84. Senior staff: 6. Persons under a contract or other arrangement with the person’s employer, wholly or principally for the labour of the person: 3. Persons under a contract or other arrangement with the person’s employer, as an apprentice or trainee: 6.

A statement detailing the stormwater management services provided (if levied) Reg cl 217(1) (e)

Griffith City Council introduced a stormwater management charge at the commencement of the 2007/08 financial year at a rate of $25 per assessment (both residential and business $12.50 for Strata) in the identified urban areas of the Local Government area. The levy collected is used not to replace existing stormwater management services but to provide new or additional services or infrastructure. The stormwater management charge assists with Council’s commitment to continual improvements of local urban stormwater drainage issues. It is utilised for larger projects that have been identified as a priority and that can provide an improvement for a high percentage of rate payers, for example, Yoogali DC605J Culvert upgrade. Griffith City Council now has a number of completed Flood Studies and Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plans which assist in the strategic planning of Griffith and surrounding areas. The most current studies and plans are available on Council’s web page and are listed below:

• Aerodrome Overland Flow Flood Study 2010

• Aerodrome Overland Flow Floodplain Risk Management Study (2011)

• CBD Overland Flow Flood Study (2012)

• CDB Overland Flow Floodplain Risk Management Study (2013)

• Lake Wyangan Flood Study (2012)

• Lake Wyangan Floodplain Risk Management Study (2013)

• Griffith Main Drain J and Mirrool Creek Flood Study 2015 Vol 1 and Vol 2

• Griffith Main Drain J and Mirrool Creek Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan 2015

Griffith Main Drain J and Mirrool Creek Flood Study Update 2021 Vol 1 - Yenda Flood Mapping Update

Griffith Main Drain J and Mirrool Creek Flood Study Update 2021 Vol 2 - Yenda Flood Mapping Update Flood Mapping Compendium

A statement detailing the coastal protection services provided (if levied) Reg cl 217(1) (e1) N/A

State of the Environment Report

In accordance with the Integrated Planning and Reporting framework, the State of the Environment Report is due the year of the ordinary Council election (every four years).

The State of Environment Report was addressed in Council’s 2021 End of Term Report.

Detailed statement, prepared in accordance with such guidelines as may be issued by the DirectorGeneral from time to time, of the council’s activities during the year in relation to enforcing, and ensuring compliance with, the provisions of the Companion Animals Act 1988 (CA Act) and the Companion Animal Regulation 2018, including:

·lodgement of pound data collection returns with OLG

·lodgement of data about dog attacks with OLG, if no known attacks in the year a nil return is required in annual statement

·amount of funding spent on companion animal management and activities

·community education programs carried out and strategies the council has in place to promote and assist the desexing of dogs and cats

· strategies in place for complying with the requirement under s 64 of the CA Act to seek alternatives to euthanasia for unclaimed animals

·off leash areas provided in the council area

·detailed information on how fund money was used for managing and controlling companion animals in their area.Reg cl 217(1)(f) Companion Animals Guidelines* (CA Guidelines)Statement of Companion Animals

Griffith Pound & Rehoming Centre Data 2021/22

Lodgement of Pound data collection returns with the Office of Local Government

Period 1 July 2021 - 30 June 2022 supplied to the Office of Local Government. (Survey of council seizures of cats and dogs)

Lodgement of data relating to dog attacks with the Office of Local Government Period 1 July 2021 - 30 June 2022 supplied to the Office of Local Government.

Amount of funding spent relating to companion animal management and activities $158,000 (Inclusive of Operating Expenditure: Animal Control Animal Control - Indirect Overheads Dog Control & Impounding Operating Expenses Dog Pound Working Expenses Minor Asset Purchases Animal Control Pound Building Asset Maintenance (Capital))

Companion animal community education programs carried out

Strategies Council has in place to promote and assist the desexing of dogs and cats

Strategies in place to comply with the requirement under section 64 (Companion Animals Act) to seek alternative to euthanasia for unclaimed animals

Council continues to promote Companion Animals legislation through social media, website, various publications, the Friends of Griffith Pound and the Working Group and continued participation at selected community events.

Council continues to fund a discounted desexing program, facilitated by the Friends of Griffith Pound and the Working Group.

Alternatives to euthanasia continue to include, local rescue groups, adoption and rehoming through the website, social media and working with rescue organisations included interstate rescues.

Off leash areas provided in the Council areaCouncil maintains an off leash free area located at the corner of Coolah Street and Murrumbidgee Avenue, Griffith.

Council is also finalising positions, drawings and fencing in relation to a new location for an off leash free area, this is awaiting final approval.

Use of companion animals fund money for management and control of companion animals in the area

Refer to “Amount of funding spent relating to companion animal management and activities” above.

Report on all capital works projects is considered best practice OLG Capital Expenditure Guidelines*

All capital works projects and budget variances are reported to Council and the community on a quarterly basis.

Councils considered to be ‘human service agencies’ under the CR Act (provide services directed at carers and/or people being cared for by carers) must report on compliance with the CR Act for the reporting period Carers Recognition Act 2010 (CR Act), s 8(2)

Griffith City Council has provided the following Home and Community Care services in relation to providing information, support and advocacy for people who care for family members with a disability, chronic illness or are frail aged.

These services are:

• Council provides home delivery of library material for those unable to attend the Griffith City Library

• Council staff volunteer during work hours to deliver meals on wheels to residents in need

• Funding provided to Aged Support Services to enable social outings and support group gatherings for the frail aged and carers of people with dementia

• Support those who are unable to complete Council forms and requests online

• Support community members and carers with details of services within the numerous interagency networks Council has access to

• Connect services with other services to provide the best outcome for Community members

Information on the implementation of Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan and give a copy to the Minister for Disability Services Disability Inclusion Act 2014, s 13(1)

Disability Inclusion Action Plan

Griffith City Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan was reviewed in 2021. It outlines Council’s commitment to improving accessibility and inclusion opportunities for people of all ages who live with a disability. This ensures access to the full range of services and activities available in the community. The Plan was developed and has been reviewed by listening to people with disabilities, their families, carers and local organisations who work with people with disability.

Council’s Disability Inclusion & Access Committee meets regularly and includes individuals with a range of abilities and first-hand experiences that provide Council with valuable advice on a broad range of access and inclusion issues. Council implemented a number of new actions that directly support the needs of people with a disability during 2021/22.

Some notable improvements include:

• Yambil Street upgrade with accessible pedestrian walkways

• Kooyoo Street upgrade, which is now all on one level and accessible for all

• Wood Park includes an inclusive and accessible playground

• The new pump track has inclusive BBQ and seating

• Griffith Regional Theatre has installed support rails for the back section of the theatre for those who require additional aids along the steps

• Additional footpath and shared pathways across the community and villages

• Events such as Seniors Morning Teas are advertised as disabled friendly and inclusive events.

Particulars of compliance with and effect of planning agreements in force during the year Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979, s 7.5(5)

Nil.

Recovery and threat abatement plans - Councils identified in a plan as responsible for implementation of measures included in the plan, to report on actions taken to implement measures as to the state of the environment in its area Fisheries Management Act 1994, s220ZT (2) Nil.

Details of inspections of private swimming pools Swimming Pools Act (SP Act) 1992, s 22F (2) Swimming Pools Regulation 2018 (SP Reg) cl 23

Swimming Pools Inspections Include:

•number of inspections of tourist and visitor accommodation.

•number of inspections of premises with more than 2 dwellings.

•number of inspections that resulted in issuance a certificate of compliance under s22D of the SP Act

•number of inspections that resulted in issuance a certificate of non-compliance under cl 21 of the SP Reg

Inspections

2021/22

Number of inspections

Inspection of tourist and visitor accommodation 2

Inspection of premises on which there are more than 2 dwelling 0

Inspections resulting in Council issuing a Certificate of Compli-ance 287 Inspections resulting in Council issuing a Certificate of Non-compliance 4

Information included on government information public access activity

-Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009, s 125(1) Government Information (Public Access) Regulation 2018, cl 8, Schedule

-Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009, s 125(1) Government Information (Public Access) Regulation 2018, cl 8, Schedule 2

-Public Interest Disclosures Act 1994, s 31 Public Interest Disclosures Regulation 2011, cl 4

The Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 NSW (GIPA Act) aims to maintain and advance a system of responsible and representative democratic government that is open, accountable, fair and effective. The main objective of the GIPA Act is to make available government information available to the public by:

• Authorising and encouraging the proactive public release of government information by agencies.

• Giving members of the public an enforceable right to access government information.

• Restricting access to government information only when there is an overriding public interest against disclosure.

Council is subject to the GIPA Act and accordingly acknowledges the right of the public to obtain information about Council’s structure, plans and policies; information about development applications; and any other information as prescribed by the GIPA Act and any accompanying regulations and guidelines. Council makes information available to the public in a number of ways including mandatory, proactive, informal and formal release provisions.

As part of its legislative requirements of the GIPA Act, Council has an Agency Information Guide published on Council’s Information held by Council web page which provides guidance on the types of information held by Council as well as outlining the different ways members of the public may access it. The Information Guide is reviewed annually to identify the kinds of information that should be made publically available. Under section 125 of the GIPA Act, Council is required to prepare an annual report meeting certain statutory obligations.

GIPA Annual Report

Clause 8A: Details of the review carried out by the agency under section 7 (3) of the Act during the reporting year and the details of any information made publicly available by the agency as a result of the review.

Reviews carried out by the agencyInformation made publicly available by the agency Yes Yes

Council reviews its authorised proactive release program regularly by identifying the kinds of information it holds that should be made publicly available. We encourage members of the public to contact Council with suggestions for information which can be considered for authorised proactive release. Council regularly reviews the information content on its website to ensure members of the public have access to the information they require. Plans of Management have been made available on

Council’s website as well as updates to the Council News and Updates, Community Opinion Group and Items on Exhibition pages. From 1 July 2021, Development Applications are now submitted through the NSW Planning Portal. Members of the public are able to access information about Development Applications through Council’s DA Tracker. Members of the public are encouraged to visit Council’s Information Held by Council webpage to access a range of information that is openly available on Council’s website. Details about the Lake Wyangan project were also recently made available on the web.

Total number of applications received: 2

Clause 8B: The total number of access applications received by the agency during the reporting year (including withdrawn applications but not including invalid applications)

Total number of applications received 2

Clause 8C: The total number of access applications received by the agency during the reporting year that the agency refused either wholly or partly, because the application was for the disclosure of information refered to in Schedule 1 to the Act (information for which there is conclusive presumption of overriding public interest against disclosure)

Number of Applications RefusedWholly Partly Total 0 0 0

% of Total 0% 0%

Schedule 2 Statistical information about access applications to be included in annual report.

Table A: Number of applications by type of applicant and outcome*

Access Granted in Full

Access Granted in Part

Access Refused in Full

Info. not Held Info. already Available

Refuse to Deal with App.

Refuse to Confirm/ Deny whether info. is held

App. withdrawn Total % of Total Media000000000 0%

Members of Parliament 000000000 0%

Private sector business 000000000 0% Not for profit organisations or community groups

Members of the public (by legal representative)

000000000 0%

1 0000000 1 50%

Members of the public (other)

0 1 000000 1 50% Total 11 0000002% of Total50%50%0%0%0%0%0%0%--

*More than one decision can be made in respect of a particular access application. If so, a recording must be made in relation to each such decision. This also applies to Table B.

Table B: Number of applications by type of application and outcome*

Access Granted in Full

Personal information applications*

Access applications (other than personal information applications)

Access Granted in Part

Access Refused in Full

Info. not Held

Info. already Available

Refuse to Deal with App.

Refuse to Confirm/ Deny whether info. is held

App. Withdrawn Total % of Total

00000000 0 0%

1 0000000 1 50%

Access applications that are partly per-sonal infor-mation applications and partly other

0 1 000000 1 50% Total 11 000000 2% of Total50%50%0%0%0%0%0%0%--

*A personal information application is an access application for personal information (as defined in clause 4 of Schedule 4 to the Act) about the applicant (the applicant being an individual).

Table C: Invalid applications

Reason for invalidity

No of applications% of Total

Application does not comply with formal requirements (section 41 of the Act) 1 100%

Application is for excluded information of the agency (section 43 of the Act) 0 0% Application contravenes restraint order (section 110 of the Act) 0 0%

Total number of invalid applications received 1 100%

Invalid applications that subsequently became valid applications 0 0%

Table D: Conclusive presumption of overriding public interest against disclosure: matters listed in Schedule 1 of Act.

Number of times consideration used* % of Total

Overriding secrecy laws 0 0% Cabinet information 0 0% Executive Council information 0 0% Contempt 0 0% Legal professional privilege 0 0% Excluded information 0 0% Documents affecting law enforcement and public safety 0 0%

Transport safety 0 0% Adoption 0 0% Care and protection of children 0 0% Ministerial code of conduct 0 0%

Aboriginal and environmental heritage0 0% Privilege generally - Sch 1(5A) 0 0% Information provided to High Risk Offenders Assessment Commit-tee 0 0%

Total 0

*More than one public interest consideration may apply in relation to a particular access application and if so, each such consideration is to be recorded (but only once per application). This also applies in relation to Table E.

Table E: Other public interest considerations against disclosure: matters listed in table to section 14 of Act.

Number of times consideration used* % of Total

Responsible and effective government0 0% Law enforcement and security 0 0% Individual rights, judicial processes and natural justice 2 100%

Business interests of agencies and other persons 0 0%

Environment, culture, economy and general matters 0 0%

Secrecy provisions 0 0% Exempt documents under interstate Freedom of Information legislation 0 0%

Total 2

Table F: Timeliness.

Number of applications*% of Total

Decided within the statutory timeframe (20 days plus any extensions) 2 100%

Decided after 35 days (by agreement with applicant) 0 0% Not decided within time (deemed refusal)0 0%

Total 2

Table G: Number of applications reviewed under Part 5 of the Act (by type of review and outcome)

Decision varied Decision upheld Total% of Total

Internal review 0 0 0 0%

Review by Information Commissioner*0 0 0 0% Internal review following recommendation under section 93 of Act 0 0 0 0%

Review by NCAT 0 0 0 0%

Total 0 0 0

% of Total 0% 0%

*The Information Commissioner does not have the authority to vary decisions, but can make recommendations to the original decision-maker. The data in this case indicates that a recommendation to vary or uphold the original decision has been made by the Information Commissioner.

Table H: Applications for review under Part 5 of the Act (by type of applicant)

Number of applications for review % of Total

Applications by access applicants 0 0% Applications by persons to whom information the subject of access application relates (see section 54 of the Act)

0 0%

Total 0

Table I: Applications transferred to other agencies.

Number of applications transferred % of Total

Agency-Initiated Transfers 0 0%

Applicant - Initiated Transfers 0 0% Total 0

Public Interest Disclosures (PID) Annual Report

Public authorities are required to report annually to Parliament on their obligations under section 31 of the Public Interest Disclosures Act 1994. This is separate to the requirement under section 6CA of that Act to provide a report to the NSW Ombudsman every six months. One of the key reasons for having this separate reporting requirement is to ensure information about PIDs is publicly available to enable transparency and accountability.

The Public Interest Disclosures Regulation 2011 outlines the information that must be included in the authority’s annual report. For reporting periods following 1 January 2014, public authorities are required to draw a distinction between PIDs made by public officials: 1. Performing their day-to-day functions, 2. Under a statutory or other legal obligation and 3. All other PIDs.

The annual report must be prepared within four months after the end of each reporting year and submitted to the Minister responsible for the public authority. It must be tabled in each House of Parliament by the Minister as soon as practical after it is prepared, unless it is included in an annual report prepared for the purposes of the Annual Reports (Departments) Act 1985 or the Annual Reports (Statutory Bodies) Act 1984. The reporting year will either be a financial or calendar year depending on the authority’s usual reporting cycle as outlined in these Acts. If the public authority does not have a financial year for the purposes of either of these Acts, the year end will be 30 June. Authorities must also provide a copy of the report to NSW Ombudsman. An electronic version of the report or a link to where the report is available online should be emailed to pid@ombo.nsw.gov.au.

1.1. Commentary on PID obligations

1. Under the PID Regulation, public authorities are required to report on:

1.1. Whether the public authority has an internal reporting policy in place.

Council has an Internal Reporting Policy in place – this was last reviewed and adopted 25 October 2019. This policy is available on Council’s website and Intranet.

1.2. What actions the head of the public authority has taken to ensure his or her staff awareness responsibilities under section 6E(1)(b) of the PID Act have been met.

PID guidelines and posters placed in prominent areas around Council offices and facilities, staff meeting rooms. Information on PID reporting promoted to Council staff through Council Capers newsletter. PID reporting presented to new staff as part of staff induction program.

2.Statistical information on PIDs 1 July 2021 to 30 June 2022

Made by public officials performing their day-to-day functions

Under a statutory or other legal obligation

All other PIDs

Number of public officials who made PIDs 0 1

Number of PIDs received 1 0 1

Of PIDs received, number primarily about:

Corrupt conduct 0 0 1

Maladministration 0 0 0

Serious and substantial waste 1 0 0

Government information contravention 0 0 0 Local government pecuniary interest contravention0 0 0

Number of PIDs finalised 2

Financial Statements

END OF TERM REPORT

Griffith City Council 2016-2021

OUR COMMUNITY VISION:

Griffith is a thriving and innovative regional capital with a vibrant lifestyle and diverse economy. We embrace our community, heritage, culture and environment.

CONTENTS

4 MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR

6 MESSAGE FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER

8 WHAT IS THE AIM OF THE REPORT?

10 UNDERSTANDING INTEGRATED PLANNING & REPORTING

11 COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

12

OUR SENIOR MANAGEMENT TEAM 13

END OF TERM ACHIEVEMENTS 14

OUR COUNCILLORS AWARDS AND NOMINATIONS

16

18 LEADERSHIP

23 LOVE THE LIFESTYLE

30 GROWING OUR CITY

38 VALUING OUR ENVIRONMENT

INCORPORATING THE STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT

END OF TERM REPORT 50 NEXT STEPS

FROM THE MAYOR MESSAGE

It is with great pleasure that I present to you the End of Term Report 2016 - 2021 for Griffith City Council.

This report is produced in accordance with the NSW Local Government Act 1993 which requires Council to present an End of Term Report at its final Council meeting prior to an election.

The End of Term Report provides an overview of Griffith City Council’s progression towards the vision articulated in the Community Strategic Plan (CSP) - Guiding Griffith 2040.

Our community vision has been a positive inspiration for Council over the past five years and my fellow Councillors and Council staff have worked diligently together with this vision firmly in mind.

Demographer, Bernard Salt, described Griffith as one of the most desirable places in Australia to live and I can attest to this. Over the past five years we have achieved a great deal that we can be proud of.

I wish to express my sincere gratitude to my fellow Councillors for their dedication to our community and their shared vision for the growth and enhancement of our City.

I also thank the dedicated Council staff, under the leadership of the General Manager, Mr Brett Stonestreet, whose ongoing commitment and continuous improvements to our City are reflected in the Council services and facilities enjoyed by the community today.

I would like to take this opportunity on behalf of the Council, to thank the entire Griffith community and our many Council volunteers for their respective efforts that collectively make our City a better place in which to live and work.

This report and findings will form part of the ongoing community consultation for the next Council to consider how it can deliver on the community’s vision and priorities and will lay a sound foundation for future planning.

It has been a privilege serving as Mayor and, on behalf of my fellow Councillors, I present the End of Term Report to you and I look forward to the continuation of the benefits of Council working collaboratively towards achieving our community’s aspirations.

John Dal Broi Mayor

MESSAGE

FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER

This End of Term Report highlights Council’s successful continued implementation of the priorities contained within the Community Strategic Plan (CSP) – Guiding Griffith 2040.

The CSP outlines Council’s commitment to best practice in governance and sets out how we can achieve our vision through goals listed under leadership, lifestyle, economy and environment.

The CSP was prepared in collaboration with the community and is underpinned by a suite of strategies and plans.

Despite facing many challenges over this term, including the COVID-19 pandemic, Council has gone from strength to strength under the leadership and guidance of Councillors and due to the hard work and dedication of our staff.

A number of major capital works projects have been undertaken during this period with funding secured and work well underway on the $25M Griffith Regional Sporting Precinct. This includes the 50m outdoor pool at the Griffith Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre, which was completed in February 2021.

Work continues on the construction of the Griffith City Industrial Link Road Strategy to improve the efficiency of heavy vehicle freight movements and reduce truck presence in the urban area.

A new Community Centre has been constructed providing valuable space for not-for-profit community service providers. The Western Riverina Country Universities Centre, established in 2019, will relocate into the new Community Centre as an anchor tenant.

Council has been successful in obtaining grant funding for much needed work to be undertaken on Boorga and Dickie Roads. This work is progressing well.

Together with Argyle Community Housing, Council is helping to create 20 new affordable dwellings and 42 new affordable housing lots in South Griffith. The completed dwellings will be one step towards addressing the housing shortage in Griffith and will be in line with the Griffith Housing Strategy developed in 2019. A host of other community facilities have been delivered during this term of Council including community stages in Memorial Park and Community Gardens, new amenities block at Jubilee Oval, 75% completion of the CBD upgrade (Yambil Street) and new truck wash facilities at the Griffith Livestock Marketing Centre. These are just a few of the exciting major projects either achieved or underway during this term of Council.

Due to COVID-19 this End of Term Report marks the fifth and final year of the current elected Council. The achievements of this Council over the past five years are significant and are testament to the dedication of our Councillors and staff. I would like to thank the staff for their professionalism and commitment, I am proud to lead such a capable team.

Brett Stonestreet Griffith City Council

WHAT IS THE AIM OF THIS REPORT?

Under the NSW Government’s Integrated Planning and Reporting Legislation for Local Government, Council is required to produce an End of Term Report detailing its progress in implementing the Community Strategic Plan (CSP) during its term (the last 5 years).

The aim of this report is to provide the community with a status of how Council is progressing toward achieving its CSP – Guiding Griffith 2040. Council adopted its Community Strategic Plan from 1 July 2017. The CSP is a long term plan that identifies where the Griffith community wants to be in the future. It outlines the community’s priorities and aspirations and how these will be achieved. This Plan assists in shaping the future of the Griffith Local Government Area (LGA). It provides the direction for the provision of key projects and services which enable Council to meet the needs of the community and deliver good quality services and facilities.

This End of Term Report will focus on the 5 year period 2016 to 2021.

Griffith City Council End of Term Report - 2016-2021

UNDERSTANDING

INTEGRATED PLANNING & REPORTING

The key elements of the Integrated Planning and Reporting framework are:

Community Strategic Plan

The purpose of the Community Strategic Plan is to identify the community’s main priorities and aspirations for the future and to plan strategies for achieving these goals.

Delivery Program

The Delivery Program is a statement of commitment to the community from each newly elected council. The Delivery Program outlines the principal activities to be undertaken by Council to implement the strategies established by the Community Strategic Plan within the resources available under the Resourcing Strategy over the term of Council.

Operational Plan

The Operational Plan is prepared annually as a sub plan of the Delivery Program. It directly addresses the actions outlined in the Delivery Program and identifies projects, programs or activities that Council will undertake towards addressing these actions.

Resourcing Strategy

The Long Term Financial Plan, Workforce Management Plan and Asset Management Plans combine to form Council’s Resourcing Strategy. The Long Term Financial Plan Provides information about the affordability and the financial sustainability of Council to address

its current and future needs. The Long Term Financial Plan is used to inform the Delivery Program and must be for a minimum of 10 years.

The Workforce Management Plan

Must be developed to address the human resourcing requirements of Council’s Delivery Program and must be for a minimum of four years.

The Asset Management Plans

Inform on the infrastructure that delivers services to the community. Council must account for and plan for all the existing assets under its ownership and any new asset solutions proposed in its Delivery Program. The Asset Management Plans must be for a minimum timeframe of 10 years. When integrated, all these plans ensure that Council delivers the expressed levels of service to its community through optimal utilisation of its resources.

Annual Report

The Annual Report focuses on Council’s implementation of the Delivery Program and Operational Plan. The report also includes information prescribed by the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005.

End of Term Report

The End of Term Report (this document) is a report on Council’s achievements in implementing the Community Strategic Plan over the term of a Council.

Griffith City Council End of Term

OUR COUNCILLORS

Cr John Dal Broi Mayor

Cr Dino Zappacosta Deputy Mayor (Sept 2016 - Sept 2018)

Cr Deb Longhurst

Cr Eddy Mardon

Cr Rina Mercuri

Cr Anne Napoli

Cr Mike Neville

Cr Brian Simpson

Cr Christine Stead Deputy Mayor (Sept 2021 - Dec 2021)

Cr Glen Andreazza Elected Feb. 2019

Cr Doug Curran Deputy Mayor (Sept 2018 - Sept 2020)

* Paul Snaidero, elected 2016, disqualified from Office 1 November 2018

Cr Simon Croce Deputy Mayor (Sept 2020 - Sept 2021)

OUR SENIOR MANAGEMENT TEAM

Brett Stonestreet General Manager

Shireen Donaldson Director Economic and Organisational Development

Phil Harding Director Sustainable Development

Max Turner Director Business, Cultural and Financial Services

Phil King Director Infrastructure and Operations

Graham Gordon Director Utilities

City Council

END OF TERM ACHIEVEMENTS

HEALTH

St Vincent’s Community Private Hospital Griffith and Murrumbidgee Clinical Teaching and Learning Centre constructed and opened 23 September 2016.

Medical student accommodation (4x2 bedroom units) completed.

Ambulance Station constructed in Wakaden Street was officially opened February 2019.

COMMUNITY & SAFETY

Griffith Community Centre funding secured and construction completed.

CCTV cameras installed, 22 in City Park and a further 81 to be installed throughout the CBD. 400+ New Australian citizens.

WATER & SEWER

Village sewer reticulation project connecting properties in Lake Wyangan, Tharbogang and Nericon 2018.

Water mains renewals. Water meter replacement. Collina infrastructure works – detention basin, storm water drainage, road improvements, sewer pump station and rising main. Sand filters upgraded Griffith Water Filtration plant. Continual upgrades to the Griffith Water Treatment Plant.

SPORT & RECREATION

$15.5M in grant funding secured towards full $33M

Griffith Regional Sporting Precinct project. 50m outdoor pool completed and Westend Oval commenced.

New Skate Park opened July 2018.

BMX and Scooter Pump Track designs prepared.

Enticknap Park upgrade August 2019.

Henderson Oval Yoogali upgrade to play equipment.

Jubilee Oval cricket nets October 2019.

AIRPORT

Air services commenced to Melbourne July 2019. Qantas flights commenced March 2021.

Runway Funding 2021. Runway, apron, taxiway resurfacing completed 2016.

Lighting airport installation 2016.

URBAN RENEWAL

Bright Lights on Banna –funding secured and lights installed.

Funding obtained for the Street Scapes Kooyoo Street activation events held May 2021.

Kooyoo Street Masterplan funding secured May 2021. New City Entrance signs.

EDUCATION

Western Riverina Country Universities Centre opened July 2019. Participated in the Grow Our Own Program which aims to encourages local youth to stay, study and work locally.

PUBLIC AMENITIES

Upgrades to Wade Park Yenda and Memorial Park Griffith. New amenities Yenda Cemetery, City Park and Jubilee Oval.

YAMBIL STREET UPGRADE

Design and consultation of Yambil Street Stages 1, 2 & 3. Completed upgrade of road, kerb, guttering, drainage and water main trunk renewal Stages 1 and 2.

LANDFILL

Planning and preparation for the Tharbogang Landfill cell. Waste Transfer StationTharbogang 2016 and Yenda 2018.

FLOOD MITIGATION

East Mirrool Regulator, Yenda - Installation of Flood Gates, Early Warning System and Breaching Protocols - 2019. Yoogali and Hanwood storm water upgrades. Yoogali Flood Mitigation.

FOOTPATHS

10,335 metres of footpaths constructed across 24 projects throughout LGA.

Merrigal Street Pedestrian Bridge commenced 2021.

Hanwood Cycleway including unique pedestrian bridge.

Village Pathways Project in Yoogali, Hanwood and Yenda.

ROADS

$30M Griffith Southern Industrial Link Road.

Boorga & Dickie Roads upgrade – funding successful, work commenced.

Yoogali intersection upgrade completed by TfNSW.

Railway Street Carpark (West) – complete.

TOURISM & EVENTS

Griffith Destination Tourism Plan 2021-2024 adopted in 2021

Interpretive Display area to be launched in 2021

Visit Griffith social media 11,401 followers on Facebook and Instagram

217 customised group tour itineraries designed and coordinated.

COUNCIL

FACILITIES

New Mechanical Workshop Jensen Road 2016/17.

New Animal Handling Facility (Pound) constructed 2016/17 and upgrades in 2019.

Library Multipurpose Room 2019, Youth Space Study Room 2016.

Refurbishment of Griffith Regional Theatre 2020.

New storeroom Senior Citizens Centre 2017.

Upgrade State Bank House 2017.

Griffith Livestock Marketing Centre Truck Wash completed September 2020.

Parks & Gardens Depot Relocation to Jensen Road with new shed and offices constructed 2021.

New Todd Building constructed and sewer connection added to Pioneer Park Museum.

Griffith Community Stage (2019) and the Community Gardens Community Stage (2021) constructed.

Upgrades to the toilet, disabled facilities, and boilers at Griffith Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre.

Resolution to develop a Cultural Precinct Masterplan. Solar panels installed at the Council Administration Building.

LAKE WYANGAN

Lake Wyangan and Catchment Management Strategy adopted 2017.

Lake Wyangan and Catchment Rehabilitation program commenced.

Project Officer appointed and recommendations being implemented.

Sustainable water quality concept plan developed.

$3.5M grant secured to connect Lake Wyangan South to the Griffith Water Reclamation Plant.

Campbell’s Swamp, Nericon Swamp and Tharbogang Swamp renamed to Wetlands and Plans of Management adopted (2021).

Over 200 trees planted at Campbell’s Swamp.

DEVELOPMENT

Griffith Now Hiring campaign commenced 2017.

Affordable Housing Strategy adopted 2019.

$6M grant secured for overall $12M Griffin Green Affordable Housing project. Review of development application assessment process undertaken. e-Planning Portal launched.

AWARDS & NOMINATIONS

Some of the awards received over this term of Council include:

• Griffith City Council’s Village Pathways project won the Asset and Infrastructure Projects Award for projects under $1.5 million at the 2021 NSW Local Government Excellence Awards.

• 50m Pool Complex was nominated under the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) NSW Crown Group Awards for Excellence 2021 in the Social and Community Infrastructure category.

• Council’s Griffith Pioneer Park Museum received a Highly Commended Award in the Innovation & Resilience category for the From the Collection video project and won the prestigious Imagination Award for its Vintage Voices project in the NSW Museums and Galleries annual IMAGinE Awards in November 2020.

• Division A and Overall Category Winner of the Roadside Environmental Management Award for the Roadside Reserves Project - An innovative solution to measuring and revaluing Griffith’s roadside reserves at the Local Government NSW (LGNSW) Excellence in the Environment Awards in December 2019.

• National Economic Development Awards for Excellence October 2019.

• Council’s Economic Development Coordinator Karly Sivewright won the Outstanding Young Employee 18-30yrs at the Griffith Business Chamber awards in July 2019.

• Griffith Regional Theatre, in partnership with Griffith’s Community Drug Action Team (CDAT), won the Alcohol and Drug Foundation (ADF) award for MYFEST (Murrumbidgee Youth Extreme Arts Festival) project in March 2018.

• Splash Swim School was named winner of the Swim Australia SwimSAFER award for School Swimming and Water Safety Program in May 2018.

• Council’s Accountant/Grants Coordinator Alana Villata was named the winner of the prestigious Dick Cahill Memorial Award December 2018 and the Col Mills Memorial Award at the NSW Local Government Professionals Excellence Awards Dinner in June 2018.

• Floodplain Management Australia Commendation Award for Flood Risk Management Project of the Year, 2018.

• The Centenary of Spears project won the Leo Kelly OAM Arts and Culture Award at the Local Government Week Awards August 2017.

• Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia (IPWEA) Highly CommendedBagtown Roundabout, 2017.

Griffith City Council End of Term Report

LEADERSHIP

COMMUNICATIONS

Weekly Council Catch Up now emailed and printed copies distributed locally.

Launched Council’s Instagram 2020. Social Media use increasing.

Communication and Engagement Strategy reviewed and implemented 2020.

Community Participation Plan adopted 2019. Annual Community Report redeveloped and distributed through print and online.

Community Opinion Group (COG) increased distribution.

Website reviewed on regular basis, compliant with legislation and mobile responsive.

864 Media Releases issued.

Feedback forms made available on the website for general feedback, specific topics and items on exhibition.

COMMITTEES & WORKING GROUPS

A

review of Council Committees was undertaken with a new structure implemented from February 2017.

AIM 2: WORK TOGETHER TO ACHIEVE OUR GOALS

PARTNERSHIPS

Agreement with Country Universities Centre to establish the Western Riverina Country Universities Centre in Griffith and Leeton.

Worked with and lobbied both the Federal and State Government on current issues. Partnered with St Vincent’s to develop the Private Community Hospital Griffith. Partnered with Argyle Housing to deliver the Griffin Green Affordable Housing Project and four residential units in Wakaden Street Griffith.

Partnering with all levels of Government and private enterprise to obtain funding for the benefit of the community.

Member of external committees and organisations including the Riverina Murray Joint Organisations of Council (RAMJO). Council funded the Community Grants Program and the COVID-19 Relief Scheme. Advocated for the new Griffith Base Hospital. Partnered with business, industry, tourism, and community organisations to deliver programs, events and address relevant issues. Worked with Griffith Local Aboriginal Lands Council.

Secured 2021 Bush Summit. Held successful Water Forum July 2021.

GRANT APPLICATIONS

Council secured over $70M in grants for community projects including:

Griffith Regional Sporting Precinct

Griffith Housing Strategy

Griffin Green Affordable Housing Development

New Griffith Community Centre

Great Southern Industrial Link Road

Yambil Street upgrade

Griffith Regional Theatre upgrade

Griffith City Library Multipurpose Room and Youth Space

Memorial Park Stage and amenities upgrade

Village shared pathways project

Cricket nets and amenities block at Jubilee Oval

Community Stage at Community Gardens

Amenities block at City Park

Skate Park and Pump Track, Olympic Street

Hanwood Cycleway

Griffith City Council End of Term Report - 2016-2021

AIM 3: PLAN AND LEAD WITH GOOD GOVERNANCE

3.1 Undertake Council activities within a clear framework of strategic planning, policies, procedures and service standards.

3.2 Ensure Council’s financial sustainability through effective financial management that is transparent and accountable.

1,811

400+ Committee and Working Group Meetings Held

3.1 & 3.2

Council is required to undertake its planning and reporting activities in accordance with the Local Government Act 1993 and the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 as well as complying with a number of other Acts and legislation. Council has met all of its statutory governance reporting obligations in a timely manner including Integrated Planning & Reporting, Companion Animals, Code of Conduct, Public Interest Disclosures, Government Information Public Access Act and Disclosures of Interest requirements.

Council conducts a review of its policies within each 4 year term. Internal policies and procedures are also reviewed on a regular basis.

Independent reviews of Council’s internal procedures and policies are conducted by an internal auditor as directed by the Audit, Risk & Improvement Committee. Council’s Risk Register has been reviewed and Risk Management Plans developed.

Council has achieved strong financial operating results from 2016/17 to 2020/21 financial years. Council will need to continue with its disciplined approach to short, medium and long term budgets in order to achieve ongoing operating surpluses and generate cash that can be placed under reserve whilst striving to

maintain an acceptable level of service to the community.

Council has an ambitious capital works program and this will be a challenge to manage; however, with continued commitment and diligence in actively managing the organisation’s performance, Council is in a strong position to achieve this program in the years ahead. Council remains in a sound financial position having recorded strong surplus results every year for at least the last 10 years, with an average result of $4.5M surplus per annum.

Council’s financial statements are independently audited by the NSW Auditor Office on an annual basis to ensure Council has complied with the requirements of the Local Government Act 1993.

Council responded positively to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic by providing rates and charges relief through the capping of any rate increases as well as waiving interest charges and allowing extensive payment plans for any affected rate payers.

Businesses were also provided relief from operating fees and charges in certain areas that were severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

LOVE THE LIFESTYLE

Griffith City Council End of Term Report - 2016-2021

Aim 4: Ensure Griffith is a great place to live 4.1 Enable accessible diversity in housing choice.

4.2

4.3

4.4

4.5

4.6

4.7

HOUSING

Funding obtained from Building Better Regions Fund to prepare the Affordable Housing Strategy which was adopted in 2019.

The Strategy will assist Council understand the current housing market and issues which may influence the delivery of the future housing market.

Council has amended the Local Environmental Plan to encourage residential flat buildings.

Council has amended the Development Control Plans to facilitate the development of diverse, affordable and lower cost housing by: • Amending floor space ratios

• Reducing parking requirements for flat buildings and multi dwelling housing

• Removing height restrictions

• Reduction of private open space.

Other affordable housing initiatives include:

• Encouraging New Generation Boarding Houses

• Incentivising the construction of Granny Flats

• Potential contribution concessions for affordable housing

• Council provided a portion of land in Wakaden Street to Argyle Housing Ltd to build 4 x 2 bedroom units

• Partnership with NSW Government and Argyle Housing for the $12M Griffith Green Project.

4.2 4.1

HEALTH & SAFETY

Council’s Environment & Health unit: • Provided food business inspections across the LGA as well as the Naranderra, Leeton, Hay and Murrumbidgee LGAs • Participated in the NSW Food Authority Scores on Doors Program

• Carried out inspections on cooling water systems, swimming pools, onsite sewerage management, local hairdressers, beauty clinics, skin penetration premises and mortuaries

• Regular water quality sampling from Lake Wyangan undertaken

CULTURAL FACILITIES

The Griffith City Library provided a safe, inclusive public space with access to a wide range of services, events and activities including Book Clubs, Rhyme Time, Storytime, Knitters, Film Club, Tech Talks, outreach visits, Community Info Helpdesk, author visits, community programs, displays and exhibitions. The Library targeted a broad demographic within the community including children, families, seniors, people with disabilities, new Australians, job seekers and the culturally and linguistically diverse community. The mobile library continued to operate, providing an excellent service to the community of Griffith, surrounding villages and towns. The new Multipurpose Room with interactive smart board, 50 seat theatrette and hearing loop along with the new Youth Space Study Room have been well utilised by the community.

The Griffith Regional Theatre delivered diverse, high quality programs including circus, physical theatre/urban arts, comedy, musicals, drama classes, dance workshops and parkour workshops. The community musicals Wicked: the Untold Story of the Witches of Oz (2017) and Legally Blonde: the Musical (2019) were successfully delivered and provided opportunities for local artists to work together to produce two professional shows. Successful grant applications contributed to substantial upgrading and extensions including dressing rooms, public toilets, new lighting desk, acoustic panelling and extension and upgrade of courtyard to allow for outdoor performances and activities.

The Griffith Regional Art Gallery continued to present exhibitions featuring both local artists and touring exhibitions. The Gallery had strong community engagement including pre-schools, primary schools, youth, Aboriginal community, multicultural community and seniors. New programs included curator talks and workshops in various mediums while local exhibitions re-engaged local artists. The Centenary of Spears project was a joint initiative of Council’s Community Development team, Griffith Regional Art Gallery and Griffith’s Youth Off the Streets program. The artwork celebrated the importance of art and cultural learning for Aboriginal youth involved in the project. The striking artwork is a prominent feature in Council’s foyer entrance.

Griffith Pioneer Park Museum worked in collaboration with the Theatre and Art Gallery to investigate new opportunities for promotion. Guided train tours of the Museum commenced proving a popular attraction for both locals and visitors. Action Day and school holiday activities continued to be popular. Staff identified a number of potential ways to deepen engagement with the local Wiradjuri community and reflect their history and connection to country as part of the Museum’s story.

Griffith City Council End of Term

SAFETY

During October 2017 Council secured funding to install 22 CCTV cameras in City Park. Funding received from the Federal Government’s Safer Communities Fund will see an additional 81 CCTV cameras installed throughout the CBD.

Council partnered with a number of local services including Murrumbidgee Local Area Command - Griffith, Community Drug Action Team, and the Griffith Liquor Accord to deliver projects to improve the safety of residents.

Increased and improved street lighting in the CBD. Crime Prevention Strategy adopted 2019. Worked with the Community Safety Precinct Committee. Participated in the Local Emergency Management Committee, the Regional Emergency Operation Centre, and the Regional Emergency Management Committee (activated when required such as COVID-19 response).

Partnered with the Rural Fire Service - Murrumbidgee. Partnered with the State Emergency ServiceMurrumbidgee.

PEDESTRIAN AND ROAD SAFETY

Road safety issues were addressed in consultation with Council’s Transport Committee, Traffic Committee and stakeholders including NSW Police and Department of Transport.

The 2018-2021 Road Safety Action Plan was approved by Department of Transport with action plan and projects implemented.

A downward trend in fatalities on local roads has been recorded.

The Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan and Bicycle Plan was reviewed in 2018 and 2021. The Plan is a step toward Griffith becoming a fully accessible community with high quality pathways and facilities.

ACCESS AND INCLUSION

4.4

CELEBRATING OUR CULTURES

Council worked with a range of organisations to help deliver culturally significant events and programs.

Griffith’s key multicultural events include:

• Griffith Easter Party

• Shaheedi Tournament

• A Taste of Italy

• Multicultural Festival

• Australia Day

Citizenship Ceremonies were regularly conducted to welcome new Australian citizens.

Council hosted a New Residents Welcome in 2018.

The 2020 Regional Wellbeing Survey for feeling part of the community - 73% high satisfaction.

4.6

Partnered with organisations including headspace Griffith, Griffith PCYC, and Griffith Aboriginal Medical Service.

Facilitated the Griffith Youth Interagency Group.

Council has supported a number of events and programs for local youth including: • Grow our Own • Fitness Beyond Barriers • Strong Girls • Midnight Basketball • Justice for Youth partnering with CDAT and St Vincent’s Private Community Hospital

• Youth Week events such as BMX workshop, movie night, Zumba Party, MySKATE, MyPlace exhibition, 3x3 Basketball, MyFEST, Youth Activate 2021.

Griffith City Council End of Term

INDIGENOUS HERITAGE

Council provided a position of Community Development Officer – Aboriginal Liaison whose role is to implement the social and cultural elements of Council’s Reconciliation Action Plan and assist community organisations and groups build their capacity to develop events, programs, projects and activities.

The Reconciliation Action Plan was endorsed by the Aboriginal Community and adopted in 2020.

Aboriginal Community Engagement protocols were endorsed and implemented.

Council partnered with Griffith Local Aboriginal Land Council, National Parks and Wildlife Service and Local Lands Services to restore and protect native flora and fauna on culturally significant land at Mallinson Road, Lake Wyangan.

Council actively worked with a variety of organisations including Griffith Local Aboriginal Land Council, Griffith Aboriginal Medical Service and the Aboriginal Community Working Party.

Council encouraged a socially inclusive community by promoting events and supporting programs including Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week.

Griffith City Council End of Term Report - 2016-2021

Aim 5: Promote a healthy and active lifestyle

5.1 Develop partnerships to improve local access to health, mental health and allied health services.

5.2 Build a community which promotes, facilitates and supports an active and healthy lifestyle for all.

5.3 Plan for and provide sporting and recreational facilities to encourage an active lifestyle and wellbeing.

$3.65M

$330,000

Grant received from NSW Government to construct new Skate Park in Olympic Street

$27M+

For Regional Sports Precinct incorporating Westend Stadium, Jubilee Oval and Griffith Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre

859,224

People attended Griffith Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre (GRALC) over the term

2.5 metre wide Cycleway constructed from Griffith to Hanwood

HEALTH PARTNERSHIPS

Representatives from Council attended various meetings and community forums convened by Murrumbidgee Local Health District.

Council lobbied the NSW Government for a new Griffith Base Hospital.

Council provided Wellways with an information sharing platform for meetings and participated in Sock it to Suicide.

Council is a member of headspace Consortium including a Councillor representative.

Provided support to Griffith Community Drug Action Team.

Partnered with and provided a venue for the Murrumbidgee Local Health District’s Suicide Prevention Outreach Team (SPOT) ‘Safe Haven’ program for those experiencing thoughts of suicide and emotional distress.

Participated in the Suicide Prevention Support Group including a Councillor representative.

Partnered with St Vincent’s to develop the new Community Private Hospital Griffith.

FUNDING

Council worked with Griffith Community Centre Inc. through the Griffith Community Centre Committee to deliver a new community centre in Olympic Street. The project was funded through the Regional Communities Development Fund.

Funding was received through the NSW Government and Federal Government for the Griffith Regional Sports Precinct, including Griffith Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre, Westend Stadium and Jubilee Oval.

5.1 5.2 5.3

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

Council promoted healthy lifestyle options to the community through social media programs and organised events and activities. The Make Healthy Normal campaign was launched in conjunction with Murrumbidgee Local Health District in 2018. Health and wellbeing initiatives were also delivered on a regular basis to Council staff.

RECREATIONAL FACILITIES

5.2 & 5.3

Improvements to sport and recreation facilities included:

• New cricket nets at Jubilee Oval

• New floating jetty and amenities at Lake Wyangan

• The new skate park facility in Olympic Street completed 2018.

Griffith Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre provided aquatic, gym and crèche facilities to all members of the community offering swim school lessons, hydrotherapy, aqua aerobics, school swimming programs, carnivals, recreational swimming, crèche, gymnasium, aerobics classes and kiosk facilities.

The Centre received funding to:

• Upgrade the existing toilet and change room facilities

• Construct a 50m outdoor pool and associated facilities

• Construct new change rooms and refurbish Club House.

Westend Stadium hosted a range of events and competitions including basketball, school sport, volleyball, badminton, lifeball, karate, wheelchair basketball, aerobics and wet weather training for team sports, and culturally inclusive events including Philippino basketball, Indian Sikh games volleyball, indigenous workshops and health care workshops.

Griffith City Council End of Term

GROWING OUR CITY

HOUSING & DEVELOPMENT

In response to concerns from the business community regarding the availability of housing and difficulty in attracting skilled workers to our area, Council commissioned a study to assess housing needs, land supply, efficient use of land, housing diversity, key development sites, future growth areas and affordable housing options. As a result the Affordable Housing Strategy was adopted in 2019.

To further facilitate development, Council’s Development Application systems were reviewed to reduce assessment time and simplify the process.

E-planning commenced 1 July 2021. Council adopted the Griffith Local Strategic Planning Statement in 2020. This document was developed in close cooperation with the Griffith community, business groups within Griffith and a range of State agencies. The document will function as a flexible guideline to inform future decisions on spatial planning.

Aim 6: Encourage our local economy to grow

6.1 Encourage and support the establishment of new and diversified industries and businesses.

6.2 Promote opportunities to assist existing businesses to grow.

6.3 Plan strategically and consider land use management to encourage investment in the region.

6.4 Promote and support diverse agricultural industries and encourage ‘best practice’.

6.5 Promote Griffith as a desirable visitor and tourism destination.

SUPPORTING BUSINESS

Council supported local businesses through a variety of mediums including:

• Launching Griffith Now Hiring in 2017 through funding from the Regional Growth Marketing and Promotion Fund, and ongoing support from local businesses and Council

• Participating in the Regional Development Australia (RDA) Riverina’s Country Change program

• Meeting regularly with organisations including NSW Business Chamber, NSW Trade & Investment, Office Regional Development, Ausindustry, Export NSW, Business Enterprise Centre, RDA Riverina and Griffith Business Chamber

• Working with Carrathool Shire, Leeton Shire, Narrandera Shire and Murrumbidgee Council to develop the Western Riverina Regional Economic Development Strategy

• Adopting the Economic Development Strategy 2021

• Facilitating and supporting a number of workshops aimed at assisting businesses and promoting Small Business Month and NSW Women’s Week events as well as sponsoring the Griffith Business Chamber Awards 2018 and 2019

• Conducting a Business Survey in 2019 to examine the needs of local businesses

• Conducting business audits

• Launching a new Invest in Griffith Prospectus in April 2019

• Joining the Easy to do Business program in 2018

• Promoting Glow2680 Christmas event

• Facilitating the Easter Sidewalk Sale 2021

• Establishing the Evolve Newsletter

• Supporting the Grow our Own initiative.

PROMOTION & PUBLICATIONS

Council worked together with local businesses to bring the Today Show to Griffith in September 2017 reaching 1.2 million viewers.

National media coverage included: Better Homes and Gardens, Sydney Weekender, Good Chef Bad Chef, Weekend Sunrise, The Daily Telegraph, The Sydney Morning herald, Postcards Australia, REX Traveller, Qantas Travel Insider, Australian Traveller top 100 places to visit, Everyday Gourmet, Country Style Magazine, Gourmet Traveller and more.

GRIFFITH TOURISM TEAM

Council played a significant role in tourism across the region by facilitating events and experiences and growing visitor economy.

Highlights included:

• With Visitor Servicing, Events and Marketing under the one roof at the Griffith Tourism Hub, the Visit Griffith brand awareness has developed and grown

• Promotional video clips displayed in REX, Qantas and East West Airlines check-in areas at Sydney and Melbourne airports

• Over 90,000 Visit Griffith Visitor Guides developed and distributed nationwide

• Griffith Spring Fest re-branded in 2017 to incorporate the many events held over the two-week period including the Citrus

Sculptures, Griffith Garden Festival and Launch Party

• Griffith Spring Fest has grown to be one of the region’s biggest festivals, with an economic impact of around $3.4M (2019) for Griffith over the two-week period

• A Taste of Italy Griffith was a new initiative introduced by the Tourism Team in August 2019. This has now become one of three major event weekends on the Griffith calendar. The extra offering over this weekend has seen it grow from a one day event to three days which in turn tripled visitor nights and overall expenditure into our local economy. In 2019 this weekend alone injected in excess of $800K into our local economy.

JOBS ATTRACTION

Griffith Now Hiring was launched in 2017 with funding from the Regional Growth Marketing and Promotion Fund. Supported by local businesses and Council, the program aims to attract skilled workers to Griffith. Council met regularly with industry groups and organisations to develop resources and facilitate programs to assist businesses and increase career and training opportunities. Council attended the Western Riverina Careers Expo, assisted with industry school tours for high school students and sponsored the Compact Careers Exchange Forum.

Council also offered a number of trainee positions and provided workplace training placements. Council’s Workforce Plan enabled Council to plan its future workforce needs and included strategies to attract and retain staff, provide training and development opportunities, improve performance and ensure a safe workplace is maintained.

Council employs 4 school based trainees, 4 apprentices and 3 trainees in the positions of Building Surveyor, Development Engineer and Design Engineer.

Council provided information to local businesses through the Evolve Newsletter.

Council upholds Safe Work Practices across the organisation and has a comprehensive Work Health and Safety (WHS) Framework and regularly reviews WHS Policies and Procedures.

TRAINING AND EDUCATION

Council partnered with the Country Universities Centre (CUC) to open the Western Riverina Country Universities Centre in July 2019. The CUC serves as the primary point of contact for the delivery of university education in the Western Riverina region, facilitates and promotes education and career pathways between school, vocational education and training providers, universities and industry. The CUC provides a space that is conducive to productive study, dedicated to university students.

The Grow Our Own program is supported by Regional Development Australia Riverina partnering with local leaders from industry including TAFE, Deakin University, local businesses, education stakeholders and Council.

ASSET MANAGEMENT

Council utilised its Asset Management Strategy and Plans to guide the planning, acquisition, operation, maintenance, renewal and disposal of its assets.

New Council facilities constructed include:

• Mechanical Workshop in Jensen Road

• Griffith Pound and Rehoming Centre at Duchatel Road

• Todd Collection Shed constructed Pioneer Park Museum

• Waste Transfer Station

• Parks and Gardens relocated while the new depot is under construction.

Upgrades completed for Council facilities include:

• Griffith Regional Theatre – dressing rooms, toilets, outdoor amphitheatre

• Griffith Library – multipurpose room and youth space

• Refurbishment of Council Chambers, Finance and Engineering departments

• Storeroom Senior Citizens Centre

• Upgrade to State Bank House

• Masterplan completed for the Council Depot.

PARKS & GARDENS

Parks, gardens and open spaces are regularly maintained and inspected to ensure the safety of residents and visitors.

Jubilee Oval upgrades - cricket nets, parking and amenities block.

Skate Park designed and constructed in Olympic Street. New Playground equipment installed at: • McKirdy Park

• Mallee Park • Enticknap Park • City Park • Henderson Oval.

LANDFILL

WATER & SEWER

Council follows ‘best practice’ in operating, maintaining and managing its water and sewer systems and ensures that the licensing conditions set out by the Environment Protection Authority are complied with.

Council’s water treatment plants, reservoirs and reticulation and sewerage infrastructure have been well maintained with the following major works being completed:

• Water mains renewal - Jondaryan Avenue, Oakes Road, Wakaden Street, Benerembah Lane, Rossetto Road

• New water mains - Sidlow Road and Merrigal Street, Willandra Avenue, Ballingal Road to Slopes Road, Kidman Way/Thorne Road

• Raw water mains - South Avenue Yenda and Bowditch Place

• Water meter pre-placement and new installations as well as backflow prevention devices

• Odour control inlet works - Griffith Water Reclamation Plant

• Collina infrastructure works – detention basin, storm water drainage, road improvements, sewer pump station and rising main

• Sand filters upgraded - Griffith Water Filtration Plant

• Reservoirs refurbished.

Council adopted its On-site Stormwater Detention (OSD) Policy to make sure that additional flows resulting from development activities are controlled. It also ensures that adequate sediment and erosion controls are put in place at all development sites.

The backlog sewerage project for the villages of Lake Wyangan, Nericon and Tharbogang was completed on time and under budget in 2019, providing sewerage services to the these villages.

Griffith City Council End of Term Report -

SALEYARDS

The Griffith Livestock Marketing Centre provided facilities for the sale of sheep and lambs. New shade structures were installed and concreting of worn out areas were completed.

A dual truck wash was constructed in 2020 which provides livestock carriers with a faster, more efficient truck washing facility.

CEMETERIES

The Cemetery Management Plan was reviewed and adopted in 2020.

8.1

Planning is continuing for the new cemetery to be located at Rifle Range Road with community forums held and the development of a masterplan underway.

Other capital works at the Cemetery included lawn beams and vault construction.

URBAN DEVELOPMENT

8.3

Council designed several new spaces and facility upgrades across the LGA including Griffith Rehoming Centre, two Community Stages, Henderson Oval, Enticknap Park, Griffith Skate Park, Griffith Community Centre, City Park Amenities Block, Pump Track, City Entrance Signs, and Yambil Street Upgrade. Installation of Tesla Charging Stations at Visitors Centre Carpark. Consultation and designs commenced for Wood Park. Obtained funding to hold Street Scapes Griffith in 2021. Designed and obtained funding for the Kooyoo Street Redevelopment Project.

Assisted with several events and initiatives including Glow2680 and Bright Lights on Banna. Developed masterplans for several Council facilities including Youth Precinct, Memorial Park, Lake Wyangan and Jubilee Oval.

SHARED PATHWAYS

Shared pathways provided greater access for the community to participate in activities such as walking, running and cycling.

Over 10km of pathways constructed including Noorebar Avenue, Boonah Street, Animoo Avenue, Ulong Street as well as a number of pathways in the

Griffith City Council

GRIFFITH AIRPORT

8.1

Griffith Airport is maintained and managed in accordance with Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) standards.

Runway, apron and taxiway resurfacing was completed and Precision Approach Path Indicators lighting installed. REX introduced new Community Fare and additional flights incorporating Broken Hill.

EastWest Airlines Sharp flights commenced for the GriffithMelbourne Service in July 2019.

Qantas flights Sydney - Griffith commenced March 2021.

Runway Funding received 2021.

FLOOD MITIGATION

Council implemented a number of flood mitigation measures including:

8.4

• Reinstatement of floodgates at the East Mirool Regulator, Yenda

• Mirrool Creek Flood Warning System and Flood Forecasting System linked to Bureau of Meteorology

• Emergency Breaching Protocols established

• Design and funding for the McCormack Road levee, culvert upgrade completed

villages of Yoogali, Hanwood and Yenda. The 2.5 metre-wide Griffith to Hanwood cycle way includes two pedestrian bridge crossings over irrigation channels.

Council received funding from the NSW Active Transport Priority Cycleways Program to construct the Hanwood Cycleway running from Bunnings to Murphy Road (Baiada). Council and Baiada have contributed to the project.

ROADS NETWORK

8.2

Reseal program for urban, rural and regional roads and gravel resheeting program completed in accordance with annual works programs.

Following design and successful funding application, work on the Southern Industrial Link Road is progressing as follows:

• Stage 1 - 5 way roundabout Old Willbriggie Roadcompleted

• Stage 2A - Construct Thorne Road (east)

• Stage 2 B - Construct Thorne Road Kidman Way/ Old Willbriggie Road

• Stage 4 - Thorne Road Murrumbidgee Avenue intersection upgrade and widening funding received

• Stage 5A - Thorne Road between Walla Avenue and Bromley Road construction

• Stage 6A - Bromley Road upgrade

• Stage 6 B - MR80 Kidman Way/Brown Road intersection upgrade.

Yambil Street Stage 1 has been completed (November 2019) and Stage 2 (August 2020) and Stage 3 currently underway. This project required design, funding application, community consultation, construction of road, kerb, guttering, drainage and water main trunk renewal.

Transport for NSW has completed the Yoogali intersection upgrade to traffic lights.

VALUING OUR ENVIRONMENT

INCORPORATING THE STATE OF THE

ENVIRONMENT REPORT

Aim 9: Enhance the natural and built environment

9.1 Encourage considered planning, balanced growth and sustainable design.

9.3 Deliver projects to protect and improve biodiversity and biosecurity.

9.4 Value and protect our heritage buildings and precincts.

9.5 Improve sustainable land use.

9.1 The Griffith Local Environmental Plan 2014 (GLEP 2014) guides planning decisions for the Griffith Local Government Area through zoning and development controls, which provide a framework for the way land can be used. The Griffith Land Use Strategy Beyond 2030 also helps to inform decisions on planning and land use. A comprehensive review of development application processes and associated documentation has been completed. Strategic planning documents have been reviewed as well as Council’s Development Control Plans.

A housing and land forum was held July 2018 in response to the community’s concerns about future land availability. The Affordable Housing Strategy, adopted in 2019, examined the current housing market in Griffith and will guide the future growth of our city. In line with the recommendations of the Strategy, Council amended some of its Development Control Plans (DCP) and is encouraging development of residential flat buildings through amendments to the Local Environmental Plan (LEP).

Council completed Stages 1 and 2 of the Yambil Street masterplan. The masterplan seeks to calm traffic, support pedestrians and promote a more pleasant public realm. Yambil Street will become significantly more attractive through the incorporation of street trees, new pavement and additional public seating and lighting.

9.2 Council partnered with local community groups, schools, local businesses, universities and government agencies to assist in getting expert advice, on-ground works completed, water quality information and biosecurity issues in regards to pest plants and animals.

Council partners include:

• Murrumbidgee Field Naturalists

• Griffith Local Aboriginal Land Council

• Narrandera Landcare/ Murrumbidgee Landcare

• Planet Ark

• Owen Toyota

• Riverina Local Land Services

• Crown Lands

• Biodiversity Conservation Trust

• Riverina and Murray Joint Organisation/Riverina Eastern Regional Organisation of Councils (RAMJO/REROC)

• Environment Protection Authority (EPA)

• Commonwealth Environmental Water Office - Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment

• NSW Fisheries Department

• Murrumbidgee Irrigation.

BIODIVERSITY & BIOSECURITY

9.3

Council delivered various environmental programs to improve biodiversity and protect the environment.

Griffith City Council’s Roadside Vegetation Management Plan and Policy were adopted in 2019. The objectives of the policy are to promote the environmental, social and economic values provided by roadside environments, to recognise roadside environments as an important asset that require active management and to promote consistency to the environmental assessment of roadside environments when planning and undertaking works in these locations. Council won the Local Government NSW Roadside Environmental Management Award for its Roadside Reserves project in 2019.

Remote camera surveillance was utilised to combat illegal dumping. Annual Clean Up Australia Day, Business Clean Up Day and Schools Clean Up days have been promoted. Council partnered with the Green Army program to provide maintenance to parks and local natural areas and Council has participated in tree planting events and encouraged the greater use of local native species in our parks and gardens.

HERITAGE

9.4

The heritage of Griffith is identified through the provision of the Griffith Local Environmental Plan 2014 (heritage items and heritage conservation areas).

Council worked to protect the heritage of Griffith by:

• Ensuring that decisions made by Council are consistent with the policies as expressed in Griffith Local Environmental Plan 2014 and the Development Control Plan 2020

• Acknowledging the importance of Aboriginal occupation and protecting sites that are important to Aboriginal culture and history

• Acknowledging and protecting any archaeological remnants

• Committing to responsible management of Griffith City Council’s own heritage resources and heritage in the public domain

• Not supporting development that removes or significantly reduces the heritage significance of any heritage item

• Striving to achieve an appropriate balance between contemporary expectations, environmental sustainability and protecting the elements that make an item significant or important to a conservation area’s character

• Acknowledging and protecting the setting of heritage items

• Permitting flexible yet sensitive adaptation of heritage affected sites where appropriate

• Responding to guidance from and the planning principles of the NSW Land and Environment Court.

Griffith City Council End of Term Report - 2016-2021

SUSTAINABLE LAND USE

9.5

A Contaminated Land Management (CLM) Policy and Register was developed and adopted in 2017. The CLM policy identifies how the management of contaminated land is integrated into Council’s Planning and Development Control process and outlines requirements relating to the use and/ or development of land that is or may be contaminated.

On September 1, 2019 the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) appointed NSW Councils responsible for regulating most Underground Petroleum Storage Systems (UPSS) in their local areas.

Griffith City Council agreed to host a workshop run by Riverina and Murray Joint Organisation/Riverina Eastern Regional Organisation of Councils (RAMJO/REROC) where staff from neighbouring councils attended to experience first-hand UPSS inspection of a service station.

The Griffith LGA currently has 16 service stations that have UPSSs that require regular inspections by Council staff, with four sites remaining with the EPA.

Griffith City Council End of Term Report - 2016-2021

43 Griffith City Council End of Term Report - 2016-2021

WATER

Council owns and operates the Griffith Water Treatment Plant and the Yenda Water Treatment Plant. An appropriate water monitoring system is in place to ensure the safety and well-being of the community is met, while at the same time ensuring appropriate and sustainable ecological management. A hydraulic model of the reticulated drinking water system that can analyse flows and pressure throughout the network was developed. This provided better information to enable future planning of the reticulation network and cater for the growth of the City.

The Strategic Business Plan for Water and Wastewater was adopted in June 2018. The main objective of the plan is to provide Council with a clear framework for the ongoing operation and management of its water supply and sewerage services. The plan provides a 30 year planning horizon in relation to capital works and asset management.

The Risk Based Drinking Water Quality Management document and the supporting systems demonstrate Griffith Council’s compliance with the requirement in the Public Health Act 2010 to develop a Quality Assurance Plan in line with the Framework for Drinking Water Quality Management in the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines. This document acts as a roadmap for the activities that Council undertakes to ensure the provision of safe drinking water to its customers. Council is committed to encouraging water

saving practices and conducted a Waterwise education program to encourage customers to minimise water use in the home. Council offers a water rebate scheme to replace existing single flush toilets and for older model shower roses.

Currently, recycled water produced at the Reclamation Plant is used for on-site irrigation at the Plant, cleaning of fine screens, environmental water for the on-site lagoons, or it is discharged into Barren Box Wetlands and Storage (BBWS) where it is used for environmental purposes and downstream irrigation supply.

Council’s Lake Wyangan Water Sustainability Project received $3.5M in grant funding through the Australian Government’s National Water Grid’s Connections Funding Pathway to construct a pipeline from the Water Reclamation Plant to the South Lake. This project aims to improve the quality and reliability of water for Lake Wyangan.

WASTE MANAGEMENT

Council operates two landfills (Yenda and Tharbogang) in compliance with EPA license requirements. The technologies used to protect the environment at Council’s modern landfill are a considerable improvement on the open dump of the past. Council opened the Waste Transfer Station (WTS) facility at Tharbogang in July 2016. The WTS has been designed to reduce the volume of waste being landfilled and enhance the recycling of materials. This will also result in the extension of the life of the current active landfill. Major upgrades to the Tharbogang Waste Management Facility include construction of a

new Landfill Cell and Green Waste site.

Council’s domestic collection has been contracted out to JR Richards and Sons for a 10 year period from 3 November 2018. JR Richards and Sons held the contract for domestic recycling services and now delivers both the recycling and general waste collection service as a result of a competitive tendering process.

Council holds Dump for Free weekends twice a year to help residents dispose of bulky waste and to combat illegal dumping throughout the Local Government Area.

ENERGY CONSUMPTION

Council recognises the importance of undertaking energy audits to evaluate overall facility energy consumption, illustrate current energy use and identify potential opportunities for operational energy and cost savings.

Council has undertaken Level 2 Energy Audits on several of its major energy consumption facilities including Council’s Water Treatment Plant (GWTP), Griffith Water Reclamation Plant (GWRP), Griffith Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre (GRALC), Council Administration building and Depot. The energy audits were vital in determining energy consumption and implementation of the audit recommendations has achieved notable cost savings.

10.2

Council is acting to reduce Greenhouse gas emissions primarily by reducing energy usage throughout its buildings and facilities. This has included the installation of LED lighting throughout many Council buildings. Council’s new Mechanical Workshop has a number of energy saving appliances, such as LED high bay work lights, sensor lights and invertor air conditioners. To reduce emissions from passenger fleet vehicles on lease back, Council only purchases vehicles where the combined tail pipe emissions do not exceed 240g/Km or the combined fuel consumption is less than or equal to 10.4 litres per 100Km as per the Green Vehicle Guide. In addition, Council continues to use Envirolube oil which is made from re-refined waste or sump oil. Council monitors engine idle times on selected plant and equipment through GPS monitoring tools to eliminate excessive idling where possible.

RENEWABLE ENERGY

10.4

A key objective of renewable energy policies in Australia is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The Griffith LGA has seen a dramatic increase in the number of solar panel systems being installed over the past five years and Council leads by example having installed solar panels on most buildings and supports and promotes the use of alternative energy sources. Below: Data from Australian Bureau of Statistics

SUSTAINABILITY

Council continued to promote the aims of the Get SepticSmart project to educate householders and businesses within the Council Local Government Area, who are not currently connected to a reticulated sewerage facility, about correctly operating and maintaining their On-site Sewage Management System in a safe, sustainable and responsible manner.

Lake Wyangan

The Lake Wyangan and Catchment Management Strategy (LW&CMS), was developed to respond to ongoing poor water quality issues, in particular, repeat occurrences of Blue-Green Algae (B-GA) in Lake Wyangan (North & South). The LW&CMS sought to understand the current drivers for Blue-Green Algae at Lake Wyangan and identify future management actions and options for Lake Wyangan and the wider surrounding catchment. The Lake Wyangan and Catchment Management Committee was established and a Project Officer appointed. Council continues to implement recommendations as determined by the Lake Wyangan & Catchment Management Strategy. These include:

• Developing a hydrodynamic circulation model of North Lake Wyangan

• Six-month study by a Chemical Engineering student from University of Sydney to help interpret the influence of water and water discharges on the lake circulation and water quality

• Monitoring the volume, sediment and nutrient concentration of storm water runoff into the Lake

• Measuring key water quality parameters in real-time to help manage the health and ecological condition of the Lake

• Continuing to work with Murrumbidgee Irrigation to develop a plan to maintain North Lake Wyangan water levels suitable for recreational purposes while also providing sufficient water for additional irrigation demand in the catchment

• Tenders sought to redevelop the main drain entering North Lake Wyangan to include a large sediment retention and nutrient filtration, and to provide guidelines for management of waste and stormwater for large scale developments in the vicinity of wetlands and lake.

In May 2020 a fish kill occurred in North Lake Wyangan resulting in native fish dying with mainly Carp surviving. Fish surveys were

conducted and Carp removal began in the first half of 2021 with just under 4,000kgs being removed from the Lake at the time of this report. The Carp removed from the Lake have been turned into fertiliser. Council is now working with the Department of Primary Industries to restock the Lake with native fish.

Wetlands

Campbell’s Swamp, Nericon Swamp, Tharbogang Swamp, Jack Carson Wildlife Reserve and Lake Wyangan are wetlands that provide an important area for biodiversity and linkages to nearby natural bushland that supports a number of waterbirds, bushland and grassland bird species as well as other reptile, mammal, amphibians and invertebrate species.

In late 2020, Plans of Management (PoM) were drafted for Campbell’s, Nericon and Tharbogang Wetlands with Lake Wyangan North and Jack Carson Wildlife Reserve to be completed later in 2021.

These PoMs support improved adaptive management of the area and their linkages within the broader Lake Wyangan Basin, and to:

• Improve and protect biodiversity and ecological values with regard to their hydrological environment, flora and fauna habitat

• Potentially maintain and conserve the location’s biodiversity and its ecosystem function

• Potentially provide for continued restoration and regeneration of the land

• Provide for improved community use of and access to the land

• Increase awareness through community education and improved eco-tourism opportunities for both Griffith City Council and the broader community

• Increase partnership involvement of key stakeholders.

In more recent years the Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) has made allocations of environmental water (e-Water) available to both Campbell’s and Nericon Wetlands.

Improvements to water delivery and associated infrastructure with enhanced monitoring may further improve water delivery and as a result the wetlands biodiversity overall, particularly for threatened and endangered species.

Griffith City Council End of Term Report - 2016-2021

MURRUMBIDGEE IRRIGATION ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION LICENCE (EPL) 4651

Reporting Year e-Water - Nericon e-Water –Campbell’s Date Total e-Water delivered in MIA

2015/2016 138ML 102ML 206ML November 2015 December 2015 1857ML

2016/2017 126ML 108ML 292ML 77ML April 2017 May 2017 986ML

2017/2018 600ML 2018/2019 263ML 136ML October 2018 November 2018 2996ML

2019/2020 200ML October 2020 2020/2021 200ML January 2021

Tharbogang Wetlands currently does not have the infrastructure to enable e-Water to be delivered, therefore only receives water from rain events greater than 60mm.

In NSW, the average temperatures have been steadily rising since the 1960s. The decade from 2008 to 2017 was the hottest on record. Accordingly, climate change will increasingly affect the environment and society across the State. Accordingly, a more permanent wet area has been preferred at Campbell’s Wetlands to support Australasian Bittern and the Southern Bell Frog both currently on the Endangered Species list.

While not recognised under the Ramsar convention as wetlands of international significance, Campbell’s Wetlands and Nericon Wetlands have been recognised as Important Bird Areas (IBAs) and support the mosaic of wetlands of inland NSW, particularly within the broader Riverina Region and locally within the MIA, as being sites offering refuge during drought years for migratory and other bird species.

NEXT STEPS

This End of Term Report will inform the review and development of the next suite of documents required under the IP&R framework, including the Community Strategic Plan (CSP), four year Delivery Program, one year Operational Plan and Resourcing Strategy. This report will also be incorporated into Council’s 2020/21 Annual Report.

During the development of this report, Council recognised the need to review current community indicators to better monitor and report on progress towards community goals. These indicators will be reviewed in the next version of the CSP to be adopted following the December 2021 elections.

You can download Griffith’s CSP - Guiding Griffith 2040, along with Council’s Annual Reports on Council’s website at www.griffith.nsw.gov.au.

CONTACT US

Your comments and suggestions are valuable to Council, particularly in highlighting opportunities for improving Council services, planning and reporting.

You can contact Council at: General Manager, Brett Stonestreet 1 Benerembah Street, Griffith NSW 2680 Tel: 1300 176 077 Email: admin@griffith.nsw.gov.au Post: PO Box 485 Griffith NSW 2680

KEEP INFORMED BY JOINING US:

Online: www.griffith.nsw.gov.au Facebook: www.facebook.com/griffithcitycouncil Instagram: @griffithcitycouncil Community Opinion Group (COG): newsletters@griffith.nsw.gov.au

DATA SOURCE

A number of measures were linked to each of the strategies in the CSP, information sources in this document include:

• NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research

• Griffith community and economic profile (https://profile.id.com.au/griffith and https://economy. id.com.au/griffith)

• 2020 Regional Wellbeing Survey

• Reporting on the Council Delivery Program and Annual Reports

• Griffith City Council internal research and reports

• Australian Bureau of Statistics.

Griffith City Council End of Term Report - 2016-2021