DESCRIPTION OF OPERATIONS

Hindmarsh Shire Council is responsible for more than 120 services, ranging from services for children to those for older adults, from open space to community buildings, waste management and infrastructure to matters concerning business development, planning for appropriate development and ensuring accountability for Council’s budget. This broad range of services and facilities are described in our Council Plan 2021-2025 and the associated budget 2021/2022 and reported upon in this document. More information about Council services is contained in the section on Our Performance. The delivery of services, facilities, support and advocacy to achieve the Strategic Objectives is measured by a set of service performance indicators and measures. Council also has a wide range of responsibilities under Victorian and federal legislation.

Economic or other factors:

Council received significant grants during 2021/2022 to undertake a number of projects including the construction of the new dual lane Albacutya bridge and associated road works. Without funding assistance from both the State and Federal Government’s Council would be unable to undertake this high priority project. Projects underway thanks to grant funding include the Llew Schilling Silo Art project, Rainbow Female Friendly Changerooms, Nhill Tennis Club, Jeparit Camp Kitchen, installation of six new cabins in caravan parks in Dimboola, Jeparit, Nhill and Rainbow, Rainbow Library construction and Rainbow Library landscaping.

Additional grants have assisted Council to support our community during COVID with funding for activities and events, food parcels, and increased seating for outdoor dining spaces throughout the Shire. Council remains debt free, with a capacity to meet short term unforeseen economic challenges due to managing its financial position prudently.