Love Where You Live
From the Mayor
There is so much to love about Renmark Paringa.
As Mayor, I’m fortunate to speak with people every day who share their pride in our region and their hopes for our future.
They also talk to me about the challenges they face and the improvements they would like to see. This Community Plan is our response.
It sets out Council’s long-term vision for a thriving community where people are at the heart of everything we do.
This plan is about more than just projects – it’s about creating a place where we take care of ourselves, each
other, and our environment.
By listening to our community and keeping an eye on future opportunities, we’ve identified areas for Council to focus on that we believe will ensure
From the CEO
This Community Plan will set the tone for how Renmark Paringa Council executes its vision, goals and key focus areas over the next decade.
Community consultation has been a significant component of developing this plan, with a high priority put on understanding what direction our community wants to go in.
It was also an opportunity to ask locals what they love about the Renmark Paringa area and
it turns out there is a lot!
We appreciate everyone who took the time to have their say and we believe this plan will capture community sentiment on what direction our council area should take.
By responding to the insights gained directly from the community, and the emerging needs to ensure prosperity and sustainability, we have outlined a clear vision for the future.
Renmark, Paringa and Lyrup continue to be ‘the place to be’.
Elected Members and Staff have worked hard to set us on this path, but it’s the people of Renmark Paringa who hold the key to our success.
With the right mindset and belief, we can unlock opportunities that will benefit all. This is our chance to sustain our region where opportunity flourishes, and where we can all be proud to call home.
I’m excited to work with you to shape the future of Renmark Paringa in a way that reflects our shared vision for the future and embraces the exciting opportunities ahead.
- Peter Hunter, Renmark Paringa Mayor
To deliver on this vision, specific focus areas and initiatives have been identified which will enable measuring our success and progress to become more concise and accountable. These goals will be measured in our next Community Satisfaction Survey and a twoyear progress review in 2027.
Council staff look forward to delivering this exciting plan for the Renmark Paringa Council community.
- Tony Siviour, Renmark Paringa Council Chief Executive Officer
Renmark Paringa Council would like to acknowledge the First Peoples of the River Murray and Mallee Region, the traditional owners of the lands and waters on which we live, work and play. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who live in and visit our beautiful district.
Why We Develop a Community Plan
Renmark Paringa Council's Community Plan 2024-2034 is our overarching strategic plan that charts our desired future for the coming decade.
The role of our Community Plan is to present our community vision and outline where Council will place its focus to help deliver it.
Community aspirations are supported by relevant goals and Council’s areas of focus, with actions and initiatives identified to inform the allocation of resources over the coming ten years.
Our Community Plan forms part of the ‘strategic management plans’ referenced under Section 122 of the Local Government Act 1999.
It is supported by our Long Term Financial Plan and Infrastructure and Asset Management Plan.
It is also informed by supporting plans and studies, including a ‘State of Renmark Paringa’ report that considered an analysis of trend data and community feedback, which has helped Council form the community vision and determine where it will put its focus.
A Shared Vision for Renmark Paringa
We strive to protect and enhance our region as it is a unique place, underpinned by a rich heritage and enviable river lifestyle. We are proud to share
and nurture this natural beauty, welcome visitors and drive growth and investment to sustain our vibrant community long into the future.
We lead healthy, active and fulfilling lives, with a commitment to support and respect each other and our environment. Together, we’re building a brighter future.
The quotes that appear throughout the document are community responses to the question "What do you love about living in or visiting the Renmark Paringa area?"
About Renmark Paringa
The Renmark Paringa area with a population of approximately 10,000-plus residents is known for its agricultural heritage, and stunning landscapes, including the Murray River, vineyards, and orchards.
The town features a variety of local businesses that contribute to the economy and create job opportunities for residents.
Fast Facts
n Over 10,000 residents
n Median age 44
n 3.2 per cent Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islanders
n 22 per cent born overseas
n 3930 residential properties
n Most spoken second languages are Greek and Punjabi
n In 2022/23, $56.9m total tourism sales in the Renmark Paringa Council area
This thriving community attracts visitors eager to explore its natural beauty, engage in outdoor activities, and experience the region's unique charm.
Renmark is not only a hub for agriculture but also a welcoming destination that showcases the spirit of its people and their connection to the land.
n Annual growth of 49 people per annum
n 57.4 per cent in the labour force
n 36 per cent not in the labour force
n In 2021, 3837 occupied private dwellings, 457 unoccupied private dwellings
n In 2021, 7.1 per cent of the population in the council area needed assistance in their day-to-day lives due to a disability, with increases reported across most age groups, but the highest proportion in those aged between 75 and 84
"The river frontage is one of the best of any country town in SA."
Council's Role
A good Community Plan should reflect the collective aspirations of the community and provide a clear pathway to addressing the issues and opportunities that are most important.
It is also important that the Community Plan is set in the context of local government’s role and the outcomes that are within Council’s scope of control or influence, and within Council’s financial resources that it can reasonably forecast to access in the future.
Council is committed to delivering action against this community vision, organised by four community aspirations, supporting goals and areas of focus.
It has also identified the type of role that it expects to play when placing effort against the identified initiative.
In addition to the initiatives identified within this Community Plan, Council delivers a broad range of services each year in accordance with its Annual Business Plan.
For a list of Council services visit: renmarkparinga.sa.gov.au/services
For more information about Council’s roles visit: renmarkparinga.sa.gov.au/council/ about-us/role-local-government
Description
Service Provider
Policy Maker
Explanation
Direct provision of services to the community
Creating and implementing plans, ideas and solutions on local issues
Administrator Managing Council’s financial and legal affairs
Owner / Custodian
Partner
Agent
Advocate
Regulator
Managing community land and assets entrusted to Council
Working with the community and others to deliver projects, programs and outcomes
Providing services on behalf of a third party under agreement
Speaking on behalf of the community to achieve influence
Operating under legislation to keep the Council area safe, clean and orderly
Renmark Paringa Council’s Long Term Strategic Directions, Community Plan 2024-34 along with the Infrastructure and Asset Management Plan and Long Term Financial Plan together form the Strategic Management Plans that are required under Section 122 of the Local Government Act 1999.
Strategic Framework
Our Community Plan 2024-2034 sits across the Council’s strategic framework.
It informs and is supported by the Long Term Financial Plan and Infrastructure and Asset Management Plans (collectively called resourcing plans) and other strategic
plans, which collectively inform the how of delivery through the Annual Business Plan.
Council reports progress against its Community Plan through its Annual Report and to reflect the efforts resourced through its Annual Business Plan.
Enviable Lifestyle
Renmark Paringa, perched on the stunning Murray River, offers an enviable lifestyle with a vibrant town centre and thriving local industries, providing a positive sense of growth and opportunity.
Council’s high-quality open spaces and recent riverfront investments enhance the town’s amenity and demonstrate a commitment to this lifestyle, inspire investment, encourage
tourism and regional growth. Renmark Paringa uniquely blends natural beauty, community spirit, and its rich irrigation heritage, making it a place where life flourishes and opportunities abound.
The Renmark Paringa area is home to the internationally recognised Riverland Ramsar site, which is dependant on the Murray River and provides an excellent wildlife habitat.
"The beautiful scenic surroundings and friendly community vibes..."
Challenges
Despite the positive sense of growth and opportunity shared amongst the community, the area is not without its challenges. The community continues to grow older and is experiencing pressures, particularly on services.
Many community members also experience poor health outcomes, both physical and mental, which also places a strain on health services and reduces the quality of life for many.
Renmark Paringa also struggles to retain and attract younger people, with a loss of both those looking for employment and those wishing to build homes and raise families.
The region and its primary industries are also vulnerable to a changing climate, access to water and the impacts of global markets.
Consultation Journey
Consultation Journey
To develop the 2024-34 Community Plan, we gathered information in the following ways...
To develop the 2024-34 Community Plan, we gathered information in the following ways
3 Community consultation
August 2024
Feedback from Community Satisfaction Survey, Love Where You Live Survey and Growth Strategy Survey considered State of Renmark report A review of the challenges and opportunities facing the region, and Renmark Paringa area
1
Staff and Elected Member workshops
Staff and Elected Members workshop priorities, opportunities and goals
2
November 2024
October 2024
Feedback considered prior to plan being endorsed by Council
6
5 Draft Consultation
The community is asked for input on the Draft Community Plan Plan Endorsed
4 Draft Community Plan Information collated into the Draft Community Plan
What You Said
The best thing about living in or visiting the Renmark Paringa area is...
riverfront gardens events welcoming community spirit safety family friendly peaceful beautiful environment
Council needs to focus on these aspects to plan for 2034...
consultationtown centre investment business and event support affordable housing maintain infrastructure sport and rec spaces
Community Aspirations
Our community vision for Renmark Paringa is to leverage our unique attributes and address our challenges, supported by these four aspirations.
Liveable
A safe and welcoming place to live a healthy and active lifestyle.
Prosperous
A place that attracts, retains and supports talented people, underpinned by diverse regional industry, tourism and access to housing.
Environment
A place that is resilient to the effects of extreme weather, protects its river, is green and limits its impact on the natural environment.
Leadership
A Council that is a trusted partner that delivers what it promises in an efficient and effective way.
Healthy | Active | Safe | Inclusive
Our goal is to support a community that is:
l Resilient and enjoys positive health outcomes
l Active and participates in sport and recreational activities
l Connected, inclusive and supports lifelong learning
Areas of Focus
Community Health L1
L1.1 Advocate to state and federal government for investment in regional health services to address poor health outcomes as reported by Preventative Health SA.
L1.2 Explore all options to improve mental health outcomes for the Riverland region.
L1.3 Deliver and support community activities and events that improve community health for all.
Council's role: Advocate / Partner / Service Provider / Policy Maker
Volunteering L2
L2.1 Encourage participation in leadership and volunteering opportunities across our community.
Council's role: Partner / Service Provider
Connected and Inclusive L3
L3.1 Deliver improved pedestrian and disability accessibility through contemporary maintenance and renewal practices.
L3.2 Deliver targeted programs and initiatives that engage and inspire people of all ages and abilities, building individual and community capacity and connections.
L3.3 Enhance connections across all ages and diverse cultures and identities to help address loneliness and to support improved mental health outcomes.
Council's role: Service Provider / Owner / Advocate / Partner / Policy Maker
A
Recreation L4
L4.1 Deliver a review of sporting facilities, working collaboratively to create a longterm plan for redevelopment of key facilities.
L4.2 Deliver a review of open spaces to create a long-term plan for redevelopment to provide recreation opportunities for all ages.
Council's role: Partner / Owner / Administrator / Advocate
Community Safety L5
L5.1 Deliver the next phases of Council’s public lighting audit and energy efficient lighting upgrades.
L5.2 Deliver Council’s Animal Management Plan and continue to promote improved animal management.
Council's role: Partner / Service / Owner / Provider / Administrator / Agent / Advocate
Lifelong Learning L6
L6.1 Investigate opportunities to enhance library facilities to meet current and emerging community needs.
L6.2 Advocate for expansion of the tertiary education offering within the region and partner with educational institutions to ensure we attract and retain youth. Council's role: Advocate / Service Provider / Owner / Administrator / Partner / Agent
History, Culture and Arts L7
L7.1 Explore opportunities for enhanced community access to cultural enrichment through the arts.
L7.2 Explore opportunities to elevate the respect and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.
L7.3 Explore opportunities to elevate the awareness and promote the region’s pioneering and irrigation history.
Council's role: Partner / Advocate
Prosperous
Innovative | Diversified | Skilled
Our goal is to create a community that is and has:
l Resilient, diverse and sustainable industries
l Access to technology, housing and a lively town centre
l A vibrant tourism experience and offering
Areas of Focus
Growth P1
P1.1 Deliver growth strategy outcomes to unlock potential through investment in infrastructure and supporting land use policy.
P1.2 Explore initiatives that can help to attract and retain young workers in the region.
Council's role: Advocate / Policy Maker / Owner
Industry P2
P2.1 Partner with state and federal government and advocate for the needs of our primary producers, supporting resilience, diversification and sustainable outcomes.
P2.2 Remove barriers and actively seek to attract new industries to the region that can complement primary production.
Council's role: Partner / Advocate / Policy Maker
Digital Connectivity P3
P3.1 Advocate for enhanced regional digital connectivity including access to mobile black spot funding to address gaps in mobile coverage.
Council's role: Advocate / Partner
Housing P4
P4.1 Partner with state government to explore opportunities to address the housing crisis.
P4.2 Support and help to facilitate the development of diverse and affordable housing.
Council's role: Policy Maker / Partner / Advocate
Infrastructure P5
P5.1 Ensure key transport routes enable movement between new growth areas and the township.
P5.2 Advocate for enhanced transport connections between the Riverland and other areas (including freight movement).
P5.3 Advocate for infrastructure investment that will unlock capacity for new development (e.g. water and wastewater ).
Council's role: Partner / Owner / Advocate / Policy Maker
Town Centre P6
P6.1 Deliver future phases of the Urban Design Framework to support the activation of the township.
P6.2 Partner to progress recommendations from the Retail Report Card and work with local business owners to achieve improved retail outcomes.
A place that attracts , retains and supports talented people, underpinned by diverse regional industry, tourism and access to infrastructure and housing
P6.3 Improve tourism information and wayfinding to support the visitor experience.
Council's Role: Service Provider/ Partner / Owner / Administrator
Tourism and Events P7
P7.1 Partner to achieve relevant regional tourism priorities.
P7.2 Support and encourage new tourism experiences and product development to attract new and returning visitors.
P7.3 Facilitate and support a high quality and diverse program of events that connect and engage our community and visitors.
P7.4 Investigate opportunities to enhance tourism services and facilities that meet current and emerging needs.
Council's role: Partner / Policy Maker / Administrator / Owner / Agent / Advocate
Environment
Resilient | Adaptable | Valuing Nature
Our goal is to create a community that has:
l Community assets and industries resilient to the effects of extreme weather and threats to biosecurity
l Sustainable management of natural resources (including water, waste and energy)
l A green, healthy and thriving natural environment
Areas of Focus
Asset Management E1
E1.1 Deliver maintenance and renewal of assets with consideration of changing weather patterns and the impacts of heat and flooding.
E1.2 Apply quality asset management principles to ensure optimal whole of life costs for Council assets.
E.1.3 Prioritise the renewal of Council assets over the development of new assets, where appropriate.
Council's role: Owner / Policy Maker / Administrator / Service Provider / Partner / Advocate
Regional Biosecurity E2
E2.1 Support the biosecurity of the Riverland in partnership with relevant agencies and authorities.
Council's role: Partner / Advocate
Murray River E3
E3.1 Advocate to the state and federal government for improved Murray River outcomes.
E3.2 Explore opportunities to advocate for outcomes that capitalise on the improved health of the river and environmental conditions.
E3.3 Partner to deliver riverbank stabilisation and flood mitigation.
E3.4 Support and promote the environmental initiatives of other authorities that achieve improvement to the local environment.
Council's role: Advocate / Partner / Service Provider
A place that is resilient to the effects of extreme weather, protects its river and flood plains, is green and limits its impact on the natural environment
Natural Resources E4
E4.1 Deliver exemplary water management practices, demonstrating leadership and efficiently maximising the use of this important resource.
E4.2 Explore opportunities to deliver more efficient use of energy in Council operations.
Council's role: Owner / Custodian / Administrator
Resource Recovery E5
E5.1 Deliver waste diversion and circular economy outcomes through the Regional Waste Strategy.
E5.2 Partner with Murraylands Riverland Local Government Association (and participant Councils) to support community education outcomes.
Service Provider/ Partner / Advocate / Agent / Regulator
Greening E6
E6.1 Deliver the Greening Renmark Paringa Plan, which includes tree planting schedules and priorities.
Council's role: Policy Maker / Owner / Administrator
Leadership
Efficient | Skilled | Accountable
Our goal is to ensure Renmark Paringa Council:
l Is accountable, reliable and transparent
l Effectively communicates and engages its community to inform decision-making
l Delivers efficient, effective and sustainable operations
Areas of Focus
Project and Service Delivery LE1
LE1.1 Deliver projects and services as required by legislation and to fulfil grant requirements.
LE1.2 Proactively seek external funding to extend, accelerate and complement Council’s investment in projects and services.
Council's role: Service Provider / Owner / Administrator / Regulator / Partner
Effective Governance LE2
LE2.1 Maintain effective processes and systems to support informed, robust decision-making, demonstrating integrity and legislative compliance.
LE2.2 Manage risks to enable the delivery of Community Plan areas of focus.
Council's role: Service Provider / Regulator / Owner / Administrator / Policy Maker
Communications LE3
LE3.1 Deliver a Communications and Community Engagement Framework that can improve consistency and effective messaging.
Council's role: Service Provider / Policy Maker / Owner
Community
Engagement LE4
LE4.1 Deliver improved community engagement in line with industry standards.
Council's role: Service Provider / Regulator / Policy Maker
A Council that is a trusted partner that delivers what it promises in an efficient and effective way
Advocacy LE5
LE5.1 Deliver a new Advocacy Plan that can support the areas of focus and initiatives of the Community Plan, securing support from partners and grant funding.
Council's role: Policy Maker / Advocate / Partner
Partnerships LE6
LE6.1 Deliver Community Plan outcomes by establishing partnerships with government, service providers, communities and businesses to maximise community value.
Council's role: Partner / Advocate / Policy Maker
Business Systems LE7
LE7.1 Deliver improved business systems which drive operational efficiencies.
LE7.2 Deliver improved cyber security outcomes for Council operations.
Council's role: Service Provider / Policy Maker / Owner / Administrator
Love Where You
Live
How We Will Deliver and Monitor This Plan
Renmark Paringa Council's Community Plan 2024-2034 presents an overarching strategic plan that charts the desired future for the coming decade.
The Community Plan outlines where Council intends to place its focus.
These initiatives as identified and others that will emerge, will be considered and resourced annually through the Annual Business Plan.
Council will monitor the delivery of these initiatives and others as identified through the Annual Business Plan when it presents its Annual Report.
In addition, every four years, the Council undertakes a Community Satisfaction Survey, which helps monitor the success of council's action by observing trends within the community survey.
Council will also conduct a two year review where we will involve the community in providing feedback on progress against the key initiatives of the plan.
This survey and other publicly available data will be used by Council to monitor the progress that it is making against its Community Plan 2024-2034.
Contact Details
Telephone 08 8580 3000
Email council@renmarkparinga.sa.gov.au
Web renmarkparinga.sa.gov.au
Engage RPC engagement.renmarkparinga.sa.gov.au
Opening Hours
Monday 9am – 5pm
Tuesday 9am – 5pm
Wednesday 9am – 5pm
Thursday 9am – 5pm
Friday 9am – 5pm
Social Media
RenmarkParingaCouncil
RenmarkParingaCouncil