Annual Report 09 10

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

TABLE OF CONTENTS Mayor’s Forward

3

CEO’s Report

4

Distribution

5

Feedback

5

Local Communities - Local Service

5

About Our Region

6

Vision

6

Guiding Principles

7

Positioning Statement

7

Your Councillors

8

Executive Team

9

Council Meetings 10 Councillors Remuneration

11

Councillors Expenses Reimbursement Policy

12

Councillor Code of Conduct & General Complaints Process Disclosures

13

Registers 14 Summary of Strategic Activities

15

SA 1 People and Communities

16

SA 2 Growth and Opportunity

20

SA 3 Planning for Liveability

21

SA 4 Our Environment

27

SA 5 Utility Services

28

SA 6 Infrastructure

35

SA 7 Empowering Our Team

43

SA 8 Business Systems and Technology 46 50

Appendices

1. Councillor Expenses Reimbursement Policy 2. Borrowing Policy 2009/10 3. Revenue Policy 2009/10 4. Audited Financial Statements For Period 1 July 2009 to 30 June 2010

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 2

MAYOR’S FORWARD

It gives me great pleasure as the Mayor of the Western Downs, to present on behalf of Western Downs Regional Council our 2009/2010 Annual Report.

Over the past 12 months Council has adopted a ‘getting down to business’ approach as we navigate our way through an exciting phase of planning the future course of our new organisation. “…widespread This year has been a period of significant progress and community input will consolidation. We have provide great future successfully moved beyond our transition phase to now be a vision for our region financially viable, transparent moving forward.” and independent large regional council.

Despite the changes that have had to occur to become a regionally operating organisation, Council has committed to significant strategic planning to refocus services and resources on meeting the current and future needs of our local communities. The commencement of the Western Downs 2050 Community Plan for the Western Downs region with widespread community input will provide great future vision for our region moving forward.

maintain and create a modern convenient lifestyle for our rural and urban areas by providing infrastructure in the most cost-efficient way possible across all communities. Providing excellent facilities and essential services ensures that our communities reap the benefits from growth and continue to be great places to live and visit.

The region’s agricultural sector continues to surge ahead as one of the State’s strongest agricultural markets with the emergence of much needed industries and consistent rain events. This strong economic performance throughout the year gives Western Downs Regional Council great confidence in the future of the region’s agricultural industry. In a further positive for the rural community, the State Government released its new draft Strategic Cropping Land Policy which effectively protects our region’s fertile cropping land from mining.

I would like to thank my fellow Councillors for their continued leadership especially in making difficult but important decisions in the best interests of the region. Also I wish to commend Council’s hard working staff. This elected Council values the contributions of our dedicated and enthusiastic people who deliver a range of Council services to more than 30,000 residents located across a vast area of 38,000km2 and manage assets valued at approximately $1.3 billion.

High expectation surrounds our region’s booming energy industry and the significant investment these major developments will bring to the region. The $1.5 billion solar power station in the offing in the Kogan and Chinchilla area, construction of a $115 million pre-heater process project towards the Kogan Creek Power Station and a multimillion dollar windfarm project at Coopers Gap are among a series of emerging energy ventures encompassing coal seam gas industry projects.

We will continue working hard to ensure our towns remain liveable, family orientated communities that offer an attractive lifestyle and deliver essential services that go with modern country living.

Continued growth in the resource sector remains a key priority for Council as developments emerging across the region in infrastructure do come at a massive cost. It is Council’s goal to

Cr Ray Brown Mayor Western Downs Regional Counci

I consider it a great honour to be the Mayor of this wonderful region and I look forward to serving the Western Downs community with hard work and enthusiasm in 2010/2011.

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 3

CEO’S REPORT

Our second financial year of operation was a very challenging one for Western Downs Regional Council in many respects but also rewarding after reaching key milestones as we move forward as a regional council.

During 2009/2010 Council have developed strategic and operational plans to manage $1.3 billion in assets, while working hard to restructure the organisation, manage growth and change, and offering responsive services to residents and stakeholders.

The year began with a celebration as Council unveiled its new branding to our local communities in August, formally announcing our organisation as a unified team ready to serve the entire Western Downs community.

Significant internal restructuring continues within the organisation to our staff, service delivery and business practices evolving from amalgamation. Central to this change, Council undertook “…heavily investing in an organisation-wide review and in the new financial local infrastructure to year will launch a staff lead meet the future needs of organisation transformation program designed to improve its communities.” performance and service delivery to the community.

Council is heavily investing in local infrastructure to meet the future needs of its communities. The Community Survey in October showed that Western Downs residents value local services and facilities, and are generally satisfied with Council’s efforts. With the survey results Council will continue to identify areas that need improvement.

Council’s financial position is sound but has been adversely affected by the impact of the cost of amalgamation and the withdrawal of significant traditional grant funding and infrastructure subsidies.

Despite this, Council managed to keep rates as low as possible in comparison to other Queensland regional councils and is working to contain its debt to manageable levels, achieve rating parity before

2012 and complete its capital works program to build the local infrastructure required in our communities.

This year significant progress has been made in the areas of environment and health, waste, utilities, community, engineering and planning services. Our planning team continues to be challenged with the number of applications submitted doubled that of the previous financial year. Animal control services were rolled out to most urban centres in the region. A strategic review of waste collection and disposal services was completed. The new Dalby Wastewater Recycling Treatment Plant was commissioned in February and construction on a second groundwater desalination plant at Dalby is earmarked for completion in the next financial year. Throughout the year $3.047 million was allocated to undertake 32 projects, 28 of which have been completed under the Federal Government’s Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program.

Engineering Services have committed to rolling out a 10-year capital and maintenance works program across the region.

Our Western Downs Library branches underwent a program of major refurbishments transforming them into welcoming and popular public spaces. The Library Service continues to exceed customers’ expectations receiving a glowing report card in its first Customer Satisfaction Survey. As part of a commitment by Council to long-term community planning, in November a 12-month Western Downs 2050 community planning project commenced providing an opportunity for residents to guide the future of their community.

I would like to thank the Mayor and Councillors who have worked hard and dedicated their time as leaders of our region throughout the year. Their commitment and support to Council operations is appreciated.

Pivotal to Council’s progress this year is the people we employ who I am immensely proud of and grateful for their energy and dedication.

Phil Berting Chief Executive Officer, Western Downs Regional Council

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 4

DISTRIBUTION Western Downs Regional Council’s Annual Report is available in hard copy or electronic format. Printed copies of the report may be obtained for a fee by writing to the Chief Executive Officer, Western Downs Regional Council, PO Box 551, Dalby Qld 4405, or by telephoning Council’s Organisational Services Section on (07) 4672 1201 during normal business hours. Alternatively, you can visit Council’s website at www.wdrc.qld.gov.au to download a copy for free. Copies are also distributed to the Department of Local Government and the Queensland State Library.

Feedback In the interest of continuous improvement Council welcomes your feedback. Please forward your commentary in writing to the Chief Executive Officer, Western Downs Regional Council, PO Box 551, Dalby Qld 4405 or email Council at info@wdrc.qld.gov.au.

Local Communities - Local Service To contact the Western Downs Regional Council telephone 1300 728 500 to be connected to your nearest Customer Service Centre, or visit in person at your local Customer Service Centre: Chinchilla

80-86 Heeney Street

Dalby

107 Drayton Street

Engineering

26 Wood Street (Dalby)

Jandowae

22 George Street

Miles

29 Dawson Street

Tara

19 Fry Street

Wandoan

6 Henderson Road

Address all correspondence to: The Chief Executive Officer Western Downs Regional Council PO Box 551 DALBY QLD 4405 Email: info@wdrc.qld.gov.au

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 5

ABOUT OUR REGION

DULACCA DRILLHAM

BRIGALOW WARRA

CONDAMINE

JIMBOUR KOGAN

BELL KAIMKILLENBUN

VISION

GLENMORGAN MEANDARRA

Our vision expresses what Council aspires to achieve for the Western

MOONIE

Downs Regional Council:

A proud region united by opportunity and lifestyle

Western Downs Regional Council is benefitting from the emerging resources industry of the Surat Basin, currently dominated by Coal Seam Gas production in the lead up to LNG export.

contributor to GRP. Western Downs Regional LGA contributed approximately 0.8% of the Gross State product for Queensland in 2008/09.

Western Downs is a region at the cutting edge of environmental, economic and social change, a rural economy punching above its weight. People are being attracted to the region for the mix of employment opportunity, clean environment and country lifestyle.

The region’s population continues to defy history, increasing to 31,897 in June 2010, a 1.3 % increase on 2009.

Unemployment also defied the State and National averages. The regions unemployment rate was 3.3% in June 2010, still well below Queensland (5.4%) and Australia (5.2%). In the same period of time, the labour force has continued to grow at approximately 5% per annum, a result expected given the investment activity through the region.

The region’s economy also continues to grow, despite the negative global environment. Gross Regional Product was 1.875 billion up 17.4% in 2008/09; almost double the growth of Queensland. Mining led this extraordinary growth, increasing its GRP by over 400% to overtake Agriculture, Fishing & Forestry as the largest regional

Dwelling approvals for the Western Downs increased by over 170% in the year ending December 2009. The majority of activity was for separate houses and came in the second half of the year, building towards record approvals for 2009/10 financial year.

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 6

GUIDING PRINCIPLES As Councillors and staff of Western Downs Regional Council we are committed to the following principles as a guide to our actions as representatives of our region: • • • • •

Invest in our people Think regionally - deliver locally Facilitate growth - manage impact Excellence in affordable service delivery Consistent and informed decisions

As a team we will work together to achieve: • • • •

Quality outcomes for our communities An inclusive team culture Pride in our organisation Continuous improvement

POSITIONING STATEMENT ‘Our Communities : Our Future’ is the positioning statement for Western Downs Regional Council. The aim of the statement is to define the business of Council. It’s an important message that says who we are and who we serve. Community and progress are the key themes which define Council’s direction and lie at the heart of our communications.

‘Our Future’ indicates Council’s forward looking approach to business while ‘Our Communities’ indicates a willingness to engage all communities in the journey.

Images of people from the region add further strength to the statement and support Council’s goal to encourage a greater connection between communities that share a common future.

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 7

YOUR COUNCILLORS

Mayor: Cr Ray Brown Portfolio: Governance

Cr George Moore Portfolio: Environment and Health

Deputy Mayor: Cr Mick Cosgrove Portfolio: Finance and Information Communication Technology

Cr Charlene Hall Portfolio: Community Services

Cr Ray Jamieson Portfolio: Planning

Cr Bill McCutcheon Portfolio: Utilities - Water, Wastewater and Gas

Cr Andrew Smith Portfolio: Economic Development and Tourism

Cr Ian Staines Portfolio: Works and Plant

Cr Carolyn Tillman Portfolio: Community and Cultural Development

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 8

EXECUTIVE TEAM

Chief Executive Officer Phil Berting

Director Economic and Community Development Ed Hoffmann

Director Engineering Services Graham Cook

Director Finance and Information and Communication Technology Lee Vohland

Director Corporate Services Stephen Hegedus

Director Planning and Environment Ian O'Donnell

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 9

COUNCIL MEETINGS Western Downs Regional Council convened two Ordinary Meetings of Council, on the first and third Wednesdays of each month. Special Meetings were held when necessary to consider specific items such as budget and statutory processes. Ordinary and Special Meetings comprise of all members of Council. The first Ordinary Meeting of the month was usually held at the Corporate Office in Dalby, with the second Meeting held at one of Council’s regional Customer Service Centres on a rotational basis.

All Meetings are open to the public, unless it is otherwise resolved

by Council that a Meeting be closed under Section 463 of the Local Government Act 1993. Council, from time to time, has need for discussions to be held “in confidence” and moves into Committee on confidential matters such as contracts, staff, industrial and legal proceedings.

Public notice of days and times of Meetings is given each month and copies of the agenda for each meeting are available for public inspection two (2) days prior to each scheduled meeting at Council’s Corporate Office and Customer Service Centres. A copy of the agenda index was also placed on Council’s website. Meeting Minutes are available on Council’s website along with statistical, local law and policy information.

Councillors are also involved in numerous advisory committees set up for special purposes such as major projects.

Summary of Meeting Attendance during 1 July 2009 to 30 June 2010: Councillor

Ordinary Meetings

Special Meetings

R. Brown

22

5

M. Cosgrove

24

5

C. Hall

23

5

R. Jamieson

24

4

W. McCutcheon

23

5

G. Moore

24

5

A. Smith

21

5

I. Staines

21

3

C. Tillman

23

5

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 1 0

COUNCILLOR REMUNERATION Section 534(f) of the Local Government Act 1993 provides that a local government’s annual report must contain a copy of any resolution during the year relating to the remuneration of Councillors, the reimbursement of expenses and provision of facilities of local governments and the remuneration, reimbursement of expenses and provision of facilities for person serving on an advisory committee.

Council determined the remuneration level for Councillors at its Ordinary Meeting held 20 January 2010 and resolved:COUNCIL RESOLUTION MOVED by Cr Moore and seconded by Cr Smith That this Report be received and that A. the remuneration level payable to Council members, commencing from the 1 January 2010 and paid fortnightly be as follows:Elected Representative

% Rate Payable to MLA

Mayor

85%

Deputy Mayor

55%

Councillor

47.5%

B. the remuneration levels adopted by Council are within the required range set by the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal; and C. that Council members be paid the following compulsory amalgamation loadings, set by the tribunal, to be paid from the 1 January 2010 as follows:Amalgamation Loading p.a.

Elected Representative

01/01/2010 to 30/06/2010

01/07/2010 to 31/12/2010

Mayor

$6,890

$4,590

Deputy Mayor

$4,630

$3,090

Councillor

$3,920

$2,610

CARRIED

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 1 1

COUNCILLOR EXPENSES REIMBURSEMENT POLICY The Councillor Expenses Reimbursement Policy was adopted by Council at its Ordinary Meeting held 3 June 2008. At its meeting held 4 February 2010 the following resolution was made:COUNCIL RESOLUTION MOVED by Cr Hall and seconded by Cr Tillman That Council request approval from the Director-General of the Department of Local Government, Sport and Recreation that the following clause be inserted into Council’s Councillor Expenses Reimbursement Policy “Home Telephone - Council will reimburse home telephone line rental, up to a maximum of $44.00 per month. Council will reimburse calls made in relation to official council business.”

CARRIED

The Western Downs Regional Council Councillor Expenses Reimbursement Policy is attached as an appendix to this Report.

Summary of Remuneration and Reimbursement during 1 July 2009 to 30 June 2010:

Councillor R. Brown

Remuneration

Reimbursement for Travel, Accom., Meals, Training

Phone*

Superannuation Council 12%

$118,288.71

$368.41

$1,948.45

$13,934.74

M. Cosgrove

$75,508.93

-

$453.00

$9,037.31

C. Hall

$65,113.85

$89.82

$253.76

$7,795.70

R. Jamieson

$65,044.75

$18.60

$62.00

$7,795.70

W. McCutcheon

$66,499.29

$532.36

$2,026.35

$7,795.70

G. Moore

$64,964.15

-

-

$7,795.70

A. Smith

$64,964.15

-

$351.50

$7,795.70

I. Staines

$64,964.15

-

$115.00

$7,795.70

C. Tillman

65,803.90

$321.75

$709.20

$7,795.70

$651,151.88

$1,330.94

$5,919.26

$77,549.13

TOTAL

* In accordance with section five of Council’s ‘Councillor Expenses Reimbursement Policy’, refer to appendix item one of this report, a Councillor has two options in relation to the provision of a mobile phone.

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 1 2

COUNCILLOR CODE OF CONDUCT & GENERAL COMPLAINTS PROCESS DISCLOSURES Council is required under section 534 (n) of the Local Government Act 1993 to disclose the number of breaches made and resolved relating to Council’s Code of Conduct. The below table outlines those for this reporting period.

Total number of breaches of the Council’s Code of Conduct committed by Councillors as decided during the year by Council.

0

The name of each Councillor decided during the year by Council to have breached the Code a description of how the Councillor breached the Code, and details of any penalty imposed by Council on the Councillor

n/a

The number of complaints about alleged code of conduct breaches by Councillors, other than frivolous or vexatious complaints that were referred to the conduct review panel during the year by the Council or the Chief Executive Office under chapter 4, part 3A

0

The number of recommendations made to local government by conduct review panel that were adopted or not adopted

0

The number of complaints made to the Ombudsman and notified to local government about decisions made by local government in relation to enforcement of code of conduct

0

The number of complaints resolved under Council’s general complaints process during the year and the number of those complaints that related to an alleged breach by a councillor of Council’s Code of Conduct

4 (0 were related to an alleged breach by a councillor)

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 1 3

REGISTERS Council maintains the following registers that are open for public inspection, except where marked with an asterisk:•

Register of Building notices (Section 55 Building Act 1975)

•

Register of Environmental Licences and Approvals (Section 213 Environmental Protection Act 1994)

•

Register of Councillors’ Interests (Section 247 Local Government Act 1993)

•

*Register of Interests for Related Persons - Councillor (Section 247 Local Government Act 1993)

•

Register of Delegations of Authority by Council (Section 472 Local Government Act 1993)

•

Register of Fees and Charges (Section 975 Local Government Act 1993)

•

Register of Subordinate Local Laws (Section 895 Local Government Act 1993)

•

Register of Roads (Section 921 Local Government Act 1993)

•

Register of Delegations of Authority by Chief Executive Officer (Section 1132 Local Government Act 1993)

•

*Register of Employees’ Interests (Section 1139 Local Government Act 1993)

•

*Register of Interests for Related Persons - Employees (Section 1139 Local Government Act1993)

•

Register of Existing Lawful Non-Conforming Uses (Section 3.2 Local Government Planning and Environment Act 1990)

•

Minutes of Council Meetings

•

Register of Local Planning Policies

•

Town Planning Policies

•

Planning Studies prepared in relation to the Planning Schemes in force

•

State Planning Policies

•

Interim Development Permit Register

•

Financial Statements

•

Cemetery Register

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 1 4

SUMMARY OF STRATEGIC ACTIVITIES

To address priority issues identified during the corporate planning process, the Western Downs Regional Council team is committed to delivering services and initiatives devised within each of the following strategic activities: SA 1 People and Communities

SA 5 Utility Services

Ambition - Create an enriched and vibrant social fabric through regular interaction with our people and communities SA 2 Growth and Opportunity

Ambition - Manage our water, sewerage and gas networks to achieve reliability, safety and cost SA 6 Infrastructure

Ambition - Realise opportunities and build capacity for the sustainable growth of our prosperous region SA 3 Planning for Liveability

Ambition - Build and maintain civil infrastructure to create safe and liveable communities within our region SA 7 Empowering Our Team

Ambition - Build an effective planning solution that enhances the liveability and lifestyle of our regional communities whilst promoting sustainable development SA 4 Our Environment Ambition - Provide a healthy environment for our people today and the generations of tomorrow

Ambition - Provide organisational support and leadership to build a strong and effective regional Council SA 8 Business Systems and Technology Ambition - Implement and manage effective business systems and accountable financial practices to serve the needs of Council and the community

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 1 5

SA 1 PEOPLE AND COMMUNITIES AMBITION Create an enriched and vibrant social fabric through regular interaction with our people and communities

SA 1 People and Communities incorporates the strategic functions of Community Facilities, Cultural Development, Community Development and Community Services

2009/10 ACHIEVEMENTS

Community Facilities The Western Downs 2050 Community Plan is intended to facilitate strategic and planned development of the region, and form the basis for more detailed corporate and operational plans. It will guide future plans at both the regional and local level. The Community Plan will inform the infrastructure requirements for both the current and future communities of the region. The Plan will provide the strategic direction needed to ensure that the Western Downs region grows in a sustainable way that meets the community’s expectations.

Furthermore, detailed strategies for Sport and Recreation, Community Facilities & Services, Health & Well-being and Cultural Mapping were developed as part of the project with key points from these areas incorporated into the Community Plan. All strategies have been linked to population projections based on growth of projects to capture a broad assessment of the likely future needs.

Provide safe, well serviced facilities for people to live, grow and connect within Records and reporting mechanisms for regional Council facilities (e.g. public swimming pools, halls, civic centres and sport and recreation centres) have been developed to enable Council to more effectively manage the facilities and to be able to report to the community on a regular basis.

•

The Western Regional Council Showgrounds Advisory Committee was established to ensure showgrounds across the region were managed effectively. This committee has representation from each of the seven showgrounds.

•

Council supported and owned swimming pools across the region have been well supported with nearly 30,000 people through the gates.

Cultural Development Encourage and develop participative and culturally connected communities Regional Arts Development Fund The Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) Program is administered by the regional RADF Committee (Chaired by Cr Tillman) with the assistance of local RADF Committees (Wandoan, Tara, Chinchilla, Miles, Dalby/Wambo). This tiered management system is unique in Queensland. The RADF program was well supported with 39 approved applications totalling $111,662 from three funding rounds.

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 1 6

SA1 PEOPLE AND COMMUNITIES CONT’D 2009/10

ACHIEVEMENTS

Art Galleries

•

The three Regional Art Galleries display work from local artists, larger travelling exhibitions and in some cases National and State touring exhibitions. Visitor numbers through the galleries have been exceptionally high totalling 47,080.

Western Downs Libraries •

•

•

•

A regional Customer Satisfaction Survey was completed with over 500 responses returned, the results confirmed the relevance and high esteem that our libraries and their staff are held in by the communities they service and providing a valuable tool for future planning; A region wide plan for the refurbishment and revitalisation of our library facilities was implemented with five libraries being completed so far, community response has been overwhelmingly positive, contributing to the growth of our business performance overall; The dual approach to collection development, of boutiquing and profiling, has resulted in significant growth and excellent return on investment for the collection spend; The Libraries Identity Branding Project was scoped and completed, providing a cohesive and dynamic marketing brand for the library service while still being clearly identifiable as a business unit of Council, a full suite of marketing collateral has also been developed.

Statistics: •

•

• •

•

Number of loans increased by 9.43%, with outstanding performance in all branches that were boutiqued, a clear indication that the ‘Boutiquing’ strategy provided sound growth and delivered on customer expectations; Profile spending was introduced to effectively market local collections to their specific communities and to ensure best value for the collection spend; Regional membership grew by 12.22% on the previous year; Visitor numbers increased by 15.42%, demonstrating strong local user support and increasing non-local usage of internet services; The total collection size increased by 10.91%

The primary KPI of stock turn over saw four quarters of growth to achieve an overall increase of 11.72% on the previous year from 2.9 to 3.24 issues per item.

Community Development Improve community health and wellbeing through group and individual participation in social and recreational activities National Youth Week - WDRC Regional Tour Celebrations Bring on the Noise 2010 Music Tour was a series of live music concerts and creative music writing workshops that were conducted and performed within the communities of Tara, Miles, Wandoan, Chinchilla and Dalby involving over 700 young people. The tour was completed in Dalby at the 2010 Unleash Event which involved the coordination of numerous volunteers and community organisations and over 1000 participants.

ANZAC Day Western Downs Regional Council hosted a full program of ANZAC Day services and ceremonies on the 25 April 2010. Eighteen ANZAC Day ceremonies and services were conducted across the region in 2010 in remembrance of those men and women who fought and died to make Australia and our region what it is today. Council representatives were in attendance at the ANZAC Day services as it is seen as an integral part of their duty to connect with the community on such an occasion.

Funding Programs Financial assistance is available to individuals and not for profit organisations through a number of funding programs that are implemented throughout the year including Minor Grants, In Kind Assistance, Community Loan Program and Sporting Assistance Program.

•

•

The Minor Grants Program has been well supported with 107 applications submitted in the two funding rounds with projects totalling $188,234 approved The Community Loan Program has seen an additional $120,000 given to local clubs throughout the region during 2009/10

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 1 7

SA1 PEOPLE AND COMMUNITIES CONT’D 2009/10

ACHIEVEMENTS

Community Services

•

Provide safe and well serviced communities •

•

Council continues to support HACC and QGAP services and resources the management of Aged Care Facilities under Council’s control at Miles and Tara with private service provider contract management to reduce the financial burden.

Council continues to provide affordable housing to its’ residents through the management of community housing in a number of communities in conjunction with Department of Communities.

During the year, Council undertook a number of capital projects including: •

• • • •

Successfully completed 28 projects across the region funded under the Regional Local Community Infrastructure Project (RLCIP). Funding totalled $2.144 million with projects including:  Upgrading Carinya Residential Aged Care Kitchen  Upgrade to the Tarcoola Retirement Village  Chinchilla, Tara & Dalby Main Street Improvements  Construction of disability access toilet at Moraby Park  Upgrade to the Jimbour Amphitheatre  Walking tracks including Condamine Walking Track, Bell Fitness Trail Development, Charleys Creek Riverside Walkway, Miles Walking Track and Myall Creek Bikeways and Walkways Development  Dalby Skate Park  Westmar Community Centre Refurbishment  Jandowae Memorial Hall and Brigalow Town Hall Upgrades Completion of the Dalby Swimming Pool upgrade Completion of the Dogwood Crossing @ Miles Stage 2 project Completion of a new hall at Flinton Racecourse replacing existing hall demolished by storm Completion and Official Opening of Meandarra Anzac

•

• • • • • •

Memorial Museum Completion of Library Refurbishments in Wandoan, Miles, Tara, Meandarra and Moonie Completion and Official Opening of Multi Purpose Sporting Facility in conjunction with Tara Shire State College.

Council’s contribution $737,000.

Construction of public amenities facilities at Dulacca Miles Aerodrome Fence Completion and Official Opening of Cypress Pine Interpretive Centre Completion of the Sawrey Country Concept for the Kogan Community Commencement of the Dalby Police Citizens Youth Centre facility Substantially completed Stage One (1) of Myall Youth Community Network construction project

Australian Citizenship Ceremonies

Council was pleased to officiate in four Australian Citizenship ceremonies from 1 July 2009 to 30 June 2010, at which 18 residents became Australian Citizens.

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 1 8

SA1 PEOPLE AND COMMUNITIES CONT’D 2009/10

ACHIEVEMENTS

Regional Australia Day Awards: •

Citizen of the Year Award – Mr Jeffrey Bidstrup of Warra

•

Young Citizen of the Year Award – Miss Emily Jamieson of Meandarra

•

Sports Achievement Award – Rowland Cook of Meandarra

•

Community Event/Project of the Year Award – Chinchilla Melon Festival

•

Senior Cultural Award – Sterle Buchanan

Local Awards: Western Downs Regional Council Local Citizen of the Year Award •

Shirley Allen – Chinchilla

•

Frank Chiverton – Dalby

•

Kerry Mulholland – Miles

•

Mary Youngberry – Tara

•

Louise Oakman – Wandoan

•

Jeffrey Bidstrup – Warra

Western Downs Regional Council Local Young Citizen of the Year Award •

Amanda Tronc - Chinchilla

Western Downs Regional Council Local Junior Cultural Award •

Jessica Pohlmann – Chinchilla

Western Downs Regional Council Local Senior Cultural Award •

Roxy Bidgood - Miles

Western Downs Regional Council Local Junior Sports Achievement Award •

Riley Dempsey – Dalby

•

Clayton Mack - Tara

Western Downs Regional Council Local Senior Sports Achievement Award

AUSTRALIA DAY AWARD RECIPIENTS

•

Gary Gibbs – Chinchilla

Western Downs Regional Council Sports Administrator/Coach/Official Award •

Kelson Gaske – Chinchilla

•

Mel Bond – Miles

•

Karen Huskisson – Tara

•

Rodney Woodrow – Wandoan

Western Downs Regional Council Local Community Project/Event of the Year Award •

Relay for Life – Dalby

•

Miles Annual Race Day – Miles

•

Meandarra Triple Milestone Celebrations – Tara

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 1 9

SA 2 GROWTH AND OPPORTUNITY AMBITION Realise opportunities and build capacity for the sustainable growth of our prosperous region

SA 2 Growth and Opportunity incorporates the strategic functions of Tourism and Promotion and Business and Industry

2009/10 ACHIEVEMENTS

Tourism and Promotion Encourage the development of tourism and promotion of the Region •

•

•

The Western Downs Destination Marketing Plan was developed to ensure appropriate tourism and events contributed to the liveability and prosperity of the region without compromising its future.

Commenced the development of a Strategic Marketing Plan for the implementation of a Servicescape of the Visitor Information Centres across the Western Downs Regional Council area.

Chinchilla and Miles becoming RV Friendly Towns and Warra and Jimbour RV Friendly Locations

Events •

Continue to support local and regional events including the Opera at Jimbour, Tara Festival of Culture and Camel Races, Beef, Bells and Bottletrees Festival, Remembrance Days and Seniors Week

Visitor Information Centres Visitors to the region have been exceptionally high with over 56,000 recorded through the Visitor Information Centres. Council has commenced the process of developing the necessary Branding for the regions Tourism and industries while standardising the VIC Centres.

Business and Industry

Encourage and facilitate growth through development of business and industry Saleyards The Western Downs Regional Council Saleyards Advisory Committee successfully managed the Dalby Saleyards with a throughput of 220,000 head of cattle, registering number two (2) in Australia for the throughput and the largest single day selling centre. The saleyards business remains one of Councils key services to rural enterprises.

Throughout the year, Council initiated a review of the “Saleyards of the Western Downs” engaging consultants to prepare a report on the future development of the Dalby Saleyards that produced three (3) options:•

Redevelopment of existing Saleyards facilities

•

Development of a new Western Downs Saleyards on a determined Greenfield site

•

Development of a new Western Downs Saleyards through the sale of the business on an acceptable Greenfield site

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 2 0

SA 3 PLANNING FOR LIVEABILITY AMBITION Build an effective planning solution that enhances the liveability and lifestyle of our regional communities whilst promoting sustainable development

SA 3 Planning for Liveability incorporates the strategic functions of Strategic Planning, Planning Services and Building Services

2009/10 ACHIEVEMENTS

Strategic Planning

Planning Services

Review development policy and planning instruments in response to regional planning requirements

Effectively resource and manage planning, development assessment and compliance

•

•

Second State Interests Review Priority Infrastructure Plan using a Regulated Infrastructure Charges Schedule (PIPRICS) for Dalby Commencement of the Western Downs Planning Scheme

•

Two hundred and seventy nine (279) development applications for Planning Services were received in the 2009/10 year ending 30 June 2010, representing a doubling of the applications received in 2008/2009. This represents strong interest in development for the period.

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 2 1

SA3 PLANNING FOR LIVEABILITY CONT’D 2009/10

ACHIEVEMENTS

Applications Received

Applications Approved

Reconfiguring a Lot

Reconfiguring a Lot # of DAs

# of new lots

# of DAs

# of new lots

Residential

16

731

Residential

6

183

Rural Residential

16

67

Rural Residential

11

25

Industrial

4

43

Industrial

2

33

Commercial

1

1

Commercial

1

1

Other

20

17

Other

10

6

# of DAs

# of DUs

Residential

38

186

Material Change of Use

Material Change of Use

# of DAs

# of DUs

Residential

66

396

Commercial

14

8,502m2

Commercial

13

9,337m2

Industrial

35

14,363m2

Industrial

19

10,329m2

Other

34

39,131m2

Other

23

20,405m2

Operational Works

GFA

GFA

Operational Works

# of DAs

Value of Works

# of DAs

Value of Works

73

$19,300,623

48

$9,944,594

# of DAs is: Number of Development Applications # of DUs is: Number of Dwelling Unit

# of DAs is: Number of Development Applications # of DUs is: Number of Dwelling Unit

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 2 2

SA3 PLANNING FOR LIVEABILITY CONT’D 2009/10

ACHIEVEMENTS HEADING

Building Services Effectively resource and manage building, plumbing and drainage assessment, and inspection services The following list details approvals issued for the Chinchilla Customer Service Area.

Building Type (Class)

Number of Approvals YTD Council

Private

Residential (1,2,4)

37

147

Serviced Accommodation (3)

0

Commercial (5,6)

# of Dwelling Units

Value of Approvals YTD Council

Private

YTD

$6,283,803

$37,575,102

176

1

-

-

-

4

9

$365,000

$1,385,637

-

Industry (7,8)

0

6

-

$2,385,578

-

Public Buildings (9)

1

0

-

-

-

Outbuildings (10a)

30

24

$269,235

$468,135

-

Swimming Pools (10b)

1

4

-

$1,500,756

-

Miscellaneous (10b)

2

0

$12,000

-

-

TOTAL

75

191

$6,930,038

$43,315,208

176

Note: The principal building feature in a combined application is selected for the purposes of this table. For example, where a detached house includes a garage, the detached house will be recorded as the approval type. This is done principally because value of works is not separated.

YTD Building Searches Building Record Searched

63 -

Special Reports

20

Building and Plumbing Inspections

532

TOTAL

615

Note: Plumbing inspections have been averaged over the reporting period.

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 2 3

SA3 PLANNING FOR LIVEABILITY CONT’D 2009/10

ACHIEVEMENTS

The following list details approvals issued for the Dalby Customer Service Area.

Building Type (Class)

Number of Approvals YTD

# of Dwelling Units

Value of Approvals YTD

Council

Private

Council

Private

YTD

Residential (1,2,4)

78

233

$6,776,853

$54,778,385

Serviced Accommodation (3)

1

-

$2,425,000

-

-

Commercial (5,6)

6

4

$3,248,662

$2,799,267

-

Industry (7,8)

3

4

$91,000

$7,882,500

-

Public Buildings (9)

5

4

$604,361

$5,870,772

-

Outbuildings (10a)

93

71

$1,140,948

$1,233,203

-

Swimming Pools (10b)

11

14

$123,300

$413,804

-

Miscellaneous (10b)

11

3

$132,753

$35,000

-

TOTAL

208

333

$14,542,877

$73,012,931

30 + 201

231

Note: The principal building feature in a combined application is selected for the purposes of this table. For example, where a detached house includes a garage, the detached house will be recorded as the approval type. This is done principally because value of works is not separated.

YTD Building Searches

52

Building Record Searched

25

Special Reports

75

Building and Plumbing Inspections

1190

TOTAL

1342

Note: There is no value for Class 7,8 privately certified approval for June 2010 as this approval relates to a stage development for power station.

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 2 4

SA3 PLANNING FOR LIVEABILITY CONT’D 2009/10

ACHIEVEMENTS

The following list details approvals issued for the Miles Customer Service Area.

Building Type (Class)

Number of Approvals YTD

# of Dwelling Units

Value of Approvals YTD

Council

Private

Council

Private

YTD

Residential (1,2,4)

14

10

$934,640

$2,327,114

4

Serviced Accommodation (3)

1

-

$35,000

-

2

Commercial (5,6)

3

-

$343,107

-

-

Industry (7,8)

5

-

$179,234

-

-

Public Buildings (9)

7

-

$1,228,980

-

-

Outbuildings (10a)

6

-

$84,980

-

-

Swimming Pools (10b)

-

-

-

-

-

Miscellaneous (10b)

3

-

$40,000

-

-

TOTAL

39

10

$2,845,941

$2,327,114

6

YTD Building Searches

10

Building Record Searched

26

Special Reports

-

Building and Plumbing Inspections

-

TOTAL

36

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 2 5

SA3 PLANNING FOR LIVEABILITY CONT’D 2009/10

ACHIEVEMENTS

The following list details approvals issued for the Tara Customer Service Area.

Building Type (Class)

Number of Approvals YTD

# of Dwelling Units

Value of Approvals YTD

Council

Private

17

6

$753,425

$816,080

Serviced Accommodation (3)

-

-

-

-

-

Commercial (5,6)

6

0

$51,730

-

-

Industry (7,8)

-

-

-

-

-

Public Buildings (9)

1

4

$273,828

$2,429,826

-

Outbuildings (10a)

14

1

$129,938

$24,515

-

Swimming Pools (10b)

-

2

-

$120,000

-

Miscellaneous (10b)

-

-

-

-

-

38

13

$1,208,921

-

19

Residential (1,2,4)

TOTAL

Council

Private

YTD 19

YTD Building Searches

21

Building Record Searched

9

Special Reports

-

Building and Plumbing Inspections

29

TOTAL

59

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 2 6

SA 4 OUR ENVIRONMENT AMBITION Provide a healthy environment for our people today and the generations of tomorrow

2009/10 ACHIEVEMENTS

SA 4 Our Environment incorporates the strategic functions of Environmental Health, Rural Services and Waste Management

Environmental Health Improving environmental health for the benefit of our regional communities and environment Environmental Health continued its reform of the animal control service, expanding a full time animal control service into many areas for the first time. Council also embarked on an implementation program for the introduction of new Queensland Government animal management laws, the changes became fully effective 1 July 2010.

These changes required the registration of cats, as well as all dogs, which has been a major change for our community.

The section retained a focus on its core environmental health responsibilities, with both enforcement and promotion of better environmental health practices for food hygiene, environmental protection, dangerous goods safety management, environmental nuisances and public health matters.

Statistics – (August to June only) Dog and Cat Complaints: 578 Dogs impounded:

501

Cats impounded:

111

Food Handlers course participants:

69

Food Premises inspections undertaken during financial year: 148 ERA Inspections:

88

Flammable and Combustible:

48

Rural Services/Natural Resource Management Create a natural environment that is valued and sustainable by managing the region’s natural character, heritage and values This year saw the continuing fight against the emerging animal and plant pests, including water hyacinth, parthenium, wild dogs, and rabbits. Work was also commenced on a region wide pest management plan. The group also maintained stock routes under Councils control, and offered rural services such as drummuster. It should be noted that Western Downs Regional Council processed

the most drums recycled out of any local government area in Australia in 2009/10. The section also worked with natural resource management (NRM) groups for the delivery of on ground environmental projects along sensitive areas, such as creeks and reserves.

Statistics (Aug to June only) Wild Dogs trapped:

77

Wild Dog Scalp bounties paid:

885

Wild dog baiting program satisfaction rate: 97% (of 72 surveys returned) Drummuster drums collected:

94,622

Waste Management Meet the current and growing needs of our region through a coordinated and considered approach to services and environmental infrastructure Delivery of Council’s waste management strategy was a major accomplishment for the Waste Management team this year. This strategy was completed early 2009 and endorsed by Council in June 2009 and delivery began soon thereafter. This strategy outlined a number of key infrastructure programs for Councils Waste Management section. This includes a major waste transfer station for Dalby (Council was successful in obtaining 80% funding from the Queensland Government for this project), a single waste collection contract for the entire Council area (for approximately 12500 properties) and the continuing reform of Council landfill facilities.

This strategy nominates a significant number of long term reform projects over the next 10 years.

Statistics Kerbside Recycling:

529 tonnes

Concrete Recycling (at Dalby Landfill):

500 m3 est.

Green waste Recycling (at Dalby Landfill): 1051 m3

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 2 7

SA 5 UTILITY SERVICES AMBITION Manage our water, sewerage and gas networks to achieve reliability, safety and cost

SA 5 Utility Services incorporates the strategic functions of Water, Wastewater and Gas

The 2009/10 year was a challenging year for the Utilities Services function of Council’s operation. Continued dry weather has seen the need to implement Water Restrictions across the region. With a view of sustainability in mind, the Utilities section are looking towards improved infrastructure in order to better meet the needs of the community. Matching improved system requirements with a better community understanding of the issues facing the region has allowed Council to get a better grip on our future needs. To this end the Utilities section has commenced planning for a number of upgrades to existing infrastructure in a planned approach to match existing needs with future requirements of our systems.

Water Manage water and recycled water treatment, networks, revenue and assets to achieve safe, reliable and cost effective water supplies

2009/10 ACHIEVEMENTS •

Water tower at Meandarra relined;

•

New automatic read meters installation in progress in Miles, Wandoan, Condamine, Dulacca, Kaimkillenbun, Moonie, Westmar, Flinton The Gums, and Glenmorgan water supplies;

•

New automatic card controlled standpipes installation in progress in Dalby, Chinchilla, Miles and Tara;

•

Asset replacement works in all schemes ongoing.

•

Recycled Water Plant to provide Class A+ water to Dalby Bio Refinery has been completed;

•

New 2 Ml per day Reverse Osmosis plant nearing completion to supplement the Dalby Water Supply.

Associated bores and pipelines have been completed

•

New off stream storage to secure the Warra town water supply completed. Associated pumps still in progress;

•

New submersible pump station in Gil Weir completed for the Miles Water Supply;

•

GAB bore water incorporated into the Miles water supply;

Gas

•

New diesel emergency pump installation in progress in Chinchilla water supply;

Manage gas networks, revenue and assets to achieve safe, cost effective gas distribution systems.

•

Mains replacement and new trunk mains installed in Wandoan Water supply;

Wastewater Manage wastewater treatment, collection and pumping, revenue and assets to achieve reliable and environmentally sensitive wastewater systems •

New intake screen at Dalby Wastewater plant

•

New pumping station at Blaxland Rd in Dalby

•

Sewer main condition surveys in progress in Chinchilla and Miles

•

District regulators upgraded

•

Crash protection installed to district regulator stations

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 2 8

SA5 UTILITY SERVICES CONT’D

WATER DATA

Dalby Water Consumption 2009/10 Monthly Consumption

Litres/Conn/Day

200

4,000

180

3,500

160

3,000

140

1,000

Total use for year 1,591.682 ML River water 159.443 ML Bores not treated 789.481 ML Desalination plant 637.614 ML Waste to evap ponds 117 ML

500

Average for year

120

2,500

100

2,000

80

1,500

60 40 20 0

July

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

March

April

May

June

Dalby Statistics 2009/10

881 l/conn/day

0

Litres/Conn/Day (L)

Chinchilla Water Consumption 2009/10 Monthly Consumption

Litres/Conn/Day

80,000

4,000

70,000

3,500

60,000

3,000

50,000

2,500

40,000

2,000

30,000

1,500

20,000

1,000

10,000

500

0

July

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

March

April

May

June

Chinchilla Statistics 2009/10 Total use for year

784,262 KL

Average for year

881 l/conn/day

0

Monthly Consumption (KL)

Tara Water Consumption 2009/10 Monthly Consumption

Litres/Conn/Day

40,000

4,000

35,000

3,500

Tara Statistics 2009/10

30,000

3,000 2,500

Total use for year

25,000 20,000

2,000

15,000

1,500

10,000

1,000

Average for year 1,162 l/conn/day

500

5,000 0

212,888 KL

July

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

March

April

May

June

0

Monthly Consumption (KL)

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 2 9

SA5 UTILITY SERVICES CONT’D

WATER DATA

Jandowae Water Consumption 2009/10 Monthly Consumption

Litres/Conn/Day

14,000

4,000

12,000

3,500 3,000

10,000

2,500

8,000

2,000

6,000

Total use for year

100,556 KL

Average for year

626 l/conn/day

1,500

4,000

1,000

2,000

500

0

Jandowae Statistics 2009/10

July

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

March

April

May

June

0

Monthly Consumption (KL)

Bell Water Consumption 2009/10 Monthly Consumption

Litres/Conn/Day

3,500

4,000

3,000

3,500 3,000

2,500

2,500

2,000

2,000

1,500

Total use for year

28,808 KL

Average for year

487 l/conn/day

1,500

1,000

1,000

500 0

Bell Statistics 2009/10

500 July

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

March

April

May

June

0

Monthly Consumption (KL)

Warra Water Consumption 2009/10 Monthly Consumption

Litres/Conn/Day

2,000

4,000

1,800

3,500

Warra Statistics 2009/10

3,000

Total use for year

13,914 KL

Average for year

615 l/conn/day

1,600 1,400 1,200

2,500

1,000

2,000

800

1,500

600

1,000

400

500

200 0

July

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

March

April

May

June

0

Monthly Consumption (KL)

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 3 0

SA5 UTILITY SERVICES CONT’D

WATER DATA

Jimbour Water Consumption 2009/10 Monthly Consumption

Litres/Conn/Day

500

4,000

450

3,500

400

3,000

350 300

2,500

250

2,000

200

1,500

150

Total use for year

2,807 KL

Average for year

550 l/conn/day

1,000

100

500

50 0

Jimbour Statistics 2009/10

July

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

March

April

May

June

0

Monthly Consumption (KL)

Kaimkillenbun Water Consumption 2009/10 Monthly Consumption

Litres/Conn/Day

500

4,000

450

3,500

400

3,000

350 300

2,500

250

2,000

200

1,500

150

Total use for year

3,412 KL

Average for year

584 l/conn/day

1,000

100

500

50 0

Kaimkillenbun Statistics 2009/10

July

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

March

April

May

June

0

Monthly Consumption (KL)

Miles Water Consumption 2009/10 Monthly Consumption

Litres/Conn/Day

4,000

30,000 25,000 20,000

3,500

Miles Statistics 2009/10

3,000

Total use for year

2,500 2,000

15,000

272,886 KL

Average for year 1,099 l/conn/day

1,500

10,000

1,000 5,000 0

500 July

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

March

April

May

June

0

Monthly Consumption (KL)

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 3 1

SA5 UTILITY SERVICES CONT’D

WATER DATA

Condamine Water Consumption 2009/10 Monthly Consumption

Litres/Conn/Day

4,000

5,500

3,500 3,000

4,500

2,500

3,500

2,000 1,500

2,500

Total use for year

133,989 KL

Average for year 1,017 l/conn/day

1,000

1,500 0

Condamine Statistics 2009/10

500 July

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

March

April

May

June

0

Monthly Consumption (KL)

Wandoan Water Consumption 2009/10 Monthly Consumption

Litres/Conn/Day

4,000

30,000

3,500

25,000

3,000 20,000

2,500 2,000

15,000

Wandoan Statistics 2009/10 Total use for year

133,989 KL

Average for year 1,017 l/conn/day

1,500

10,000

1,000 5,000 0

500 July

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

March

April

May

June

0

Monthly Consumption (KL)

Dulacca Water Consumption 2009/10 Monthly Consumption

Litres/Conn/Day

3,500

4,000

3,000

3,500

Dulacca Statistics 2009/10

3,000

Total use for year

25,183 KL

Average for year

920 l/conn/day

2,500

2,500

2,000

2,000

1,500

1,500

1,000

1,000

500 0

500 July

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

March

April

May

June

0

Monthly Consumption (KL)

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 3 2

SA5 UTILITY SERVICES CONT’D

WATER DATA

Kogan Water Consumption 2009/10 Monthly Consumption

Litres/Conn/Day

1,800

4,000

1,600

3,500

1,400

3,000

1,200

2,500

1,000

2,000

800

Total use for year

8,628 KL

Average for year

909 l/conn/day

1,500

600

1,000

400

500

200 0

Kogan Statistics 2009/10

July

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

March

April

May

June

0

Monthly Consumption (KL)

Moonie Water Consumption 2009/10 Monthly Consumption

Litres/Conn/Day

1,750

4,000

1,550

3,500

1,350

3,000

1,150

2,500

950

2,000

750

1,500

550

1,000

350

500

150

July

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

March

April

May

June

Moonie Statistics 2009/10 Total use for year

11,929 KL

Average for year 1,120 l/conn/day

0

Monthly Consumption (KL)

The Gums Water Consumption 2009/10 Monthly Consumption

Litres/Conn/Day

4,000

1,200

3,500

The Gums Statistics 2009/10

1,000

3,000 2,500

Total use for year

4,712 KL

800

Average for year

861 l/conn/day

2,000

600

1,500

400

1,000

200 0

500 July

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

March

April

May

June

0

Monthly Consumption (KL)

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 3 3

SA5 UTILITY SERVICES CONT’D

WATER DATA

Flinton Water Consumption 2009/10 Monthly Consumption

Litres/Conn/Day

800

4,000

700

3,500

600

3,000

500

2,500

400

2,000

300

1,500

200

1,000

100

500

0

July

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

March

April

May

June

Flinton Statistics 2009/10 Total use for year

4,571 KL

Average for year

963 l/conn/day

0

Monthly Consumption (KL)

Westmar Water Consumption 2009/10 Monthly Consumption

Litres/Conn/Day

4,000

1,400

3,500

1,200

3,000

1,000

2,500

800

2,000

600

1,500

400

1,000

200

500

0

July

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

March

April

May

June

Westmar Statistics 2009/10 Total use for year

4,572 KL

Average for year 1,566 l/conn/day

0

Monthly Consumption (KL)

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 3 4

SA 6 INFRASTRUCTURE AMBITION Build and maintain civil infrastructure to create safe and liveable communities within our region

SA 6 Infrastructure incorporates the strategic functions of Civil Works, Aerodromes, Asset Management, Cemetery Operations, Stormwater Networks, District Depots and Workshops, Commercial Works, Fleet and Plant and Quarry Operations Engineering Services is well into the amalgamation process and working effectively as a section albeit still in different districts purely as a result of the large area and improved logistics. The Dalby and surrounding district underwent a process of combining workforces and grouping them into Construction or Maintenance, therefore better defining related activities and responsibilities.

With a focus on achieving regional consistency of systems while maintaining local delivery, each workforce has been retained in its former district. Resources, knowledge and material are now being sourced and shared across regional boundaries to create a culture of improved and efficient service delivery.

The main objective of Engineering Services remains the same – to ensure that a comprehensive and structured approach is taken towards planning and the development infrastructure. It is our goal that infrastructure projects are comprehensively planned and delivered as directed by Council to meet the community’s aspirations. Engineering Services aims to set appropriate standards, approve all designs and budgets prior to implementation to ensure that Council and the community achieves best value in service delivery.

2009/10 ACHIEVEMENTS

Civil Works

Plan, design, construct and maintain regional civil infrastructure to service the regional community Acknowledging the enormous road infrastructure and large asset base it maintains Council delivered a large number of civil projects throughout the 2009/10 financial year as summarised in the table below: ACTIVITY

Dalby

Chinchilla/ Tara

Miles/ Wandoan

Capital Works

$6,203,192

$8,609,880

$4,109,656

Maintenance

$5,954,652

$3,868,560

$2,582,956

Drainage

$170,887

$1,884

$4,496

It should also be noted that an increasing road network, mainly as a result of new subdivisions, added to normal maintenance requirements. Currently Council owns one of the largest road networks in Queensland, totalling a 7,518 km, of which 2008 km is sealed and 5,510 km is unsealed. Adding to the abovementioned number is an additional 1,777 km of Federal and State roads under Council’s care and control, taking the total length of Council controlled roads to 9,295 km.

In an effort to better plan, budget and program future works, Engineering Services initiated a process of long term budgeting and implemented a 10-Year Works Program for each of the five districts. This program provides for all capital, major maintenance, Main Roads works and maintenance requirements for all community infrastructure for the next 10 years. The compilation of the 10-year program involves identifying and prioritising Council’s infrastructure needs according to clear and transparent methodology, which is consistent with Council policies, strategies and the Corporate Plan.

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 3 5

SA6 INFRASTRUCTURE CONT’D

2009/10 ACHIEVEMENTS

Parks and Gardens The Parks and Gardens function is resourced from Engineering Services and has developed a strategy to enhance the existing parks and gardens throughout the region. Recent dry seasons has increased the importance of this strategy includes maintaining existing levels of service to open space areas. The introduction of regional waterwise programs has been challenging but this important program is the key to the future sustainability of this function of Council.

Aerodromes Maintain and enhance aerodromes relevant to CASA and community requirements Aerodromes are the responsibility of Council’s local workforce for operations and maintenance. Procedures and policies are developed through the Director of Engineering Services.

Council has developed a Western Downs Regional Council Airport Strategy which identifies the Chinchilla Aerodrome to be designated as the Regional Airport. As the resource sector develops, increasing pressure will be placed on existing airstrips throughout the region and Council will lobby for required upgrading to be funded from this industry.

All remaining aerodromes have continued to be maintained and a longer term view of infrastructure at each strip has been taken. This has resulted in an increased effort in maintaining the assets at these important facilities in order to provide improved services to users.

Changes to the Local Government Act have highlighted the importance of asset management in local government and Council has been set a deadline of 31 December 2010 to have developed core asset management plans. Due to these changes the asset management team has been reviewing the asset inventory register, which has involved a desktop audit of the road, water and sewer networks. A field audit of the road network was conducted that included GPS pickup of the entire council road network, collecting details such as the length, width and construction standard of roads, bridges and floodways. Work is continuing on the collection of inventory data for Council’s building assets.

The asset management team continued combining and standardising the asset inventory registers from the nine (9) former entities (including Boards). This inventory register was loaded into Councils asset register software and systems.

In addition, consultants have been engaged to conduct aerial surveys off 18 town and key council project areas. Data capture of this project was conducted in June and July 2009 and the final product will be delivered in the 2010/11 financial year.

Cemeteries Maintain cemetery operations to a level acceptable to the community The cemeteries function continued to be delivered locally throughout the region. A plan for the extension of the Dalby Cemetery was prepared and will be constructed in the 2010/11 financial year.

Asset Management Develop a whole of organisation approach to implement best practice asset management Council has commenced the development of a whole of organisation Asset Management Plan with associated financial modelling and service level standards. In addition to community expectations, aging Council infrastructure and the ever growing range of services, another initiative in the form of a substantially changed Local Government Act called for rapid action.

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 3 6

SA6 INFRASTRUCTURE CONT’D

2009/10 ACHIEVEMENTS

Stormwater Networks Plan and design regional stormwater area network infrastructure Council’s aim is to provide stormwater infrastructure and strategies that ensure adequate protection and/or to minimise the effect of overland flow or flooding. During the past 12 months stormwater facilities were maintained throughout the region to ensure local flooding would not arise as an issue in the event of heavy rainfall.

Planning for studies into several stormwater catchments occurred in Dalby and Chinchilla with major works to commence in the 2010/11 financial year.

Commercial Works Actively pursue commercial works opportunities within our region Commercial works include external works for private developers under contractual arrangements and provide Council’s workforce the opportunity to compete and measure themselves against private industry. This arrangement not only keeps our workforce up to date with modern day construction techniques, but also empowers them and demonstrates that they are competitive in the construction market. This in turn ensures an effective workforce that delivers local projects cost effectively.

A substantial part of commercial works includes the completion of work by Council on behalf of the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR). An alliance is in place with TMR under a contractual agreement to deliver the Road Maintenance Performance Contract (RMPC) on an annual basis. This is a very important part of Council’s program delivery as it not only provides safer main roads within the region but maintains the ability of Council to provide employment in the region.

Below are the financial figures for commercial works across the region for the 2009/10 financial year: Private works & TMR Expenditure:

$8,678,592

Private Works & TMR Income:

$9,688,226

Fleet To manage an efficient fleet and plant to support Council operations The period between 1st July 2009 and 30th June 2010 has seen the Council continue its Plant and Vehicle Replacement Program as per Council’s adopted Plant and Vehicle Replacement Policy. During this period, Council replaced its 2009/10 budgeted plant and fleet to a replacement value of approximately $6 million.

Quarry Operations To provide quality quarry products at competitive prices A strong performance has been recorded by the Western Downs Regional Council’s Jimbour Quarry operations for the 2009/10 financial year. Product sales totalled almost $4 million, with 60% going directly to Council works and projects throughout the region and the remaining 40% to a wide range of customers and businesses. Crushing operations during the year produced 110,000 tonnes of road base material and 119,000 tonnes of aggregates and associated materials.

Towards 2010/11 and in order to meet the needs of a more discerning and increasingly demanding marketplace, Council will replace one of the existing gyratory crushers with a vertical shaft impactor, which will enhance its end product. Installation of this machine is programmed to take place during late 2010 early 2011.

In order to better utilise the significant material resources in gravel pits throughout the region, Council will also purchase a track mounted jaw crusher and its eventual inception into operations toward the end of 2010 is eagerly awaited.

Through close consultation with, and a mutual understanding of the many and varied sections and departments necessary to sustain a successful operation, the Western Downs Regional Council’s Jimbour Quarry remains committed to the safe production and supply of quality materials to our valued clients.

Council has an adopted Plant and Vehicle Replacement Policy which was applied across the region during the 2009/10 financial year using an industry standard approach designed to reflect true costs.

This will allow Council to maintain a sustainable modern fleet into the future and provides a consistent regional approach to fleet and vehicle replacement.

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 3 7

SA6 INFRASTRUCTURE CONT’D

2009/10 ACHIEVEMENTS

A large number of relatively major projects have been completed during the past 12 months, refer to the table below: Dalby Road Projects Road Name

Work Description

Jimbour Station Road

Reconstruction

Dalby, Hickey, Eva and Queen Sts Bitumen Construction

SIGNIFICANT PROJECTS

Ducklo-Gulera Road

Bitumen Construction

Old Burrandowan Road

Reconstruction

Hustons Road

Reconstruction of Intersection and partial floodway

Dalby Nungil Road

Reconstruction

Kaths Road

Major Pavement Repairs

Jimbour Street

Reconstruction

Sydney Street

Reconstruction

Cedarvale Road

Reconstruction

Wood Street

Reconstruction

Geisel Street

Reconstruction

Branch Creek Road

Roundabout Construction

Lyons Crt

Rehabilitation

Darlow Street

Reconstruction

Black Street

Reconstruction

Thorn Street

Rehabilitation

Orphen Street Culverts

New Culvert Installation

Various Bitumen Roads

Bitumen Reseal Program 2009/10

Various Gravel Roads

Gravel Resheeting Programm 2009/10

Branch Creek Road Footpath

New Footpath Construction

Myall Creek Bikeway

New Footpath Construction

Bell Fitness Trail

New Footpath Construction

Markhams Hill Road

Drainage Concrete Protection Works

Footpath Replacement Program

Footpath Construction Various Streets

High Street

New Footpath Construction

George Street

New Footpath Construction

Isabelle Street

New Footpath Construction

Moffatt Street

New Footpath Construction

Dalby CBD Streetscape

Footpath Paving

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 3 8

SA6 INFRASTRUCTURE CONT’D

2009/10 ACHIEVEMENTS

Chinchilla Road Projects Road Name

Work Description

Auburn Road

Resheet & Seal

Burra Burri Road

Shoulder Sealing

DahlersRoad / Burnt Bridge Road

Intersection Realignment

Banana Bridge Road

Resheet and Seal

Forrest Street

Resheet and Seal

Carmichael Street

Resheet and Seal

Zanoni Street

Widen & Seal

Park Street

Widen & Seal

Hunter Road

Resheet & Seal

Mizpah Drive

Form & Gravel

Pelican Back Road

Dust Suppression Seal

Chinchilla Tara Road (MR)

Shoulder Sealing

Various Bitumen Roads

Bitumen Reseal Program 2009/10

Various Gravel Roads

Gravel Resheeting Programm 2009/10

Tara Road Projects

SIGNIFICANT PROJECTS

Road Name

Work Description

Binnie Street

K & C and Seal

Tara-Surat Road

Widen & Rehabilitation

Cambridge Crossing Road

Widen & Rehabilitation

Southwood Road

Widen & Rehabilitation

Cecil Plains Road

Resheet & Seal

Day Street

K & C and Seal

Humbug Road

Resheet & Seal

New Settlers Road

Dust Suppression Seal

Leichhardt Highway (MR)

Widen & Overlay

Meandarra Talwood Road (MR)

Shoulder Sealing

Moonie Highway (MR)

Reseal

Meandarra Talwood Road (MR)

Reseal

Surat Developmental Road (MR)

Reseal

Various Bitumen Roads

Bitumen Reseal Program 2008/09

Various Gravel Roads

Gravel Resheeting Programm 2008/09

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 3 9

SA6 INFRASTRUCTURE CONT’D

2009/10 ACHIEVEMENTS

Miles Road Projects Road Name

Work Description

Arubial Road

Bitumen Upgrade

North Dulacca Road

Bitumen Upgrade

Yulabilla Road

Bitumen Upgrade

Old Cameby Road

Widen & Seal

Best Road

Gravel Upgrade

Cormacks Road

Gravel Upgrade

L Tree Creek Road

Gravel Upgrade

Dulacca North Road

Bitumen Reseal

Cemetery Road

Bitumen Reseal

Fairymeadow Road

Bitumen Reseal

Murilla Street

Bitumen Reseal

Old Cameby Road

Bitumen Reseal

Red Marley Road

Bitumen Reseal

Arubial Road

Gravel Resheet

Corbetts Road

Gravel Resheet

Eyes Road

Gravel Resheet

Harphams Road

Gravel Resheet

Knights Road

Gravel Resheet

Matthews Road

Gravel Resheet

Sherwood Road

Gravel Resheet

Willets Road

Gravel Resheet

SIGNIFICANT PROJECTS

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 4 0

SA6 INFRASTRUCTURE CONT’D

2009/10 ACHIEVEMENTS

Wandoan Road Projects Road Name

Work Description

K Road

Bitumen Upgrade

Roche Creek Road

Bitumen Upgrade

Gurulmundi Road

Flood Damage

Roche Creek Road

Gravel Upgrade

Roche Creek Road

Bitumen Reseal

Downfall Creek Road

Bitumen Reseal

Bundi Road

Bitumen Reseal

Yeovil Road

Bitumen Reseal

Moore Street

Bitumen Reseal

Golf Club Road

Bitumen Reseal

Nelders Lane

Gravel Resheet

Goldens Road

Gravel Resheet

Giligulgul Road

Gravel Resheet

Gurulmundi Road

Gravel Resheet

SIGNIFICANT PROJECTS

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 4 1

SA6 INFRASTRUCTURE CONT’D

2009/10 ACHIEVEMENTS

Miscellaneous Projects Project Name

Work Description

Dalby Region Aerodrome Runway

Runway Widening

Showgrounds

Bitumen entrance construction

Niagra Road

Gabion wall construction

Jimbour Station Road

Grid Removal

Subdivision Construction

Various Subdivisions constructed throughout region

DTMR

Various bulk rehabilitation projects

Dalby Lawn Cemetery

Earthworks Extension

Rotary Park Jandowae

Playground installation

Soft fall replacement

Various parks

Chinchilla Region Helena Street

Charleys Creek North Footpath (RLCIP)

Chinchilla CBD Heeney Street

Street Beautification (RLCIP)

Chinchilla Weir

Improvements to Picnic Facilities

Gaske Lane Stormwater Drainage

Planning for Stormwater Drainage Construction

Tara Region Tara CBD

Street Beautification

Tara Lagoon

Concrete Footpath Extension

Tara Depot

Skillion Extension to Existing Store

Tara Depot

Smoko / Training Room Extension

Miles Region

SIGNIFICANT PROJECTS

Moraby Creek Bridge (DTMR)

Timber Bridge Replacement

Murilla Street Streetscape

Streetscaping

Wandoan Region Wandoan Depot

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

Fit-out of new workshop

PA G E 4 2

SA 7 EMPOWERING OUR TEAM AMBITION Provide organisational support and leadership to build a strong and effective regional Council

SA 7 Empowering Our Team incorporates the strategic functions of Strategic Management, Governance, Strategic Marketing, Information Management, Human Resources Management, Safety, Disaster Management and the regional Customer Service Centres

Strategic Management To provide effective strategic planning and leadership to establish a clear focus, shared across our regional organisation •

Organisational review completed and Organisational Transformation Study launched

•

Quarterly review of 2009-2013 Corporate Plan and 2009/10 Operational Plan conducted

•

9 Monthly Executive Team Meetings held regionally

•

4 Quarterly Management Team Meetings held regionally

Governance To implement best practice governance to achieve an effective and accountable Organisation •

Consolidation of former council policies underway with a total of 249 redundant policies rescinded and 44 regional policies operational

•

Local Law Review Process commenced and a Local Law Review Steering Committee established

•

Implementation of the new Right to Information Act 2009

•

Establishment of systems and procedures to comply with introduction of the new Information Privacy Act 2009

•

The processing of four Right to Information requests under the Right to Information Act 2009

Strategic Marketing Deliver marketing, communication and PR strategies that enhance Council’s professional corporate image •

Launch and implementation of new Western Downs Regional Council Corporate Identity

•

Development and distribution of 114 media releases and 21 media alerts

2009/10 ACHIEVEMENTS

•

Achieved 728 direct mentions in broadcast media in 2009

•

Achieved total value of $1,045,313 in broadcast media in 2009

•

Achieved 684 direct mentions in print media in 2009

•

Achieved total value of $ 372,286 in print media in 2009

•

Enhanced Council website using new content management system offering a suite of features to improve overall functionality and customer services

•

Achieved increased patronage to Council’s website of 27,506 visitors per annum in comparison with last year.

Total website visitors between July 2009 and June 2010 were 72,210

•

Launch of new staff intranet - COLIN (Council Online Information Network). COLIN is a one-stop communication and information hub for all Western Downs Regional Council staff to access Council related information and to provide a high level of internal and external customer service delivery

•

12 issues of the Monthly Council Update published in various newspaper, magazine and local community newsletter publications

•

Council Update distribution network expanded to include new monthly Tara and District Magazines. Total monthly circulation on the new distribution network totals 19,744

•

New Local Council Update for Miles and Tara launched

•

Published two editions of Council’s Community Update Newsletter with a total of 28,648 newsletters distributed regionally

•

Three issues of Council’s Team Update staff newsletter published with the total number of newsletters published approximately 2,100. New electronic version of Team Update launched to administrative staff on COLIN in April 2010

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 4 3

SA7 EMPOWERING OUR TEAM CONT’D 2009/10

ACHIEVEMENTS

Information and Customer Service Management

•

Effective and timely management of all forms of correspondence generated and received by Council in order to deliver excellent customer service

Development of HR Strategy for resourcing of Customer Contact Team

•

Commenced the development of a regional Customer Request Management System

•

Commenced review of the Council’s business processes and workflows

•

Continual streamlining of daily mail and records management procedures

•

Development and implementation of new automatic workflows complete with end points to improve reporting capabilities

•

Developed Dataworks User Guide Manual and help cards

•

Operational Dataworks Training delivered to all new staff

•

Refresher Dataworks Training delivered each month

•

Effective system upgrade to 3.07 Dataworks with minimum end-user downtime

•

Human Resource Management Attract, retain and develop an effective team whilst promoting a positive and proactive culture •

Human Resource Module Training in Civica implemented

•

Government Training Funding submission successful

•

Internal training identified and executed

•

Implementation records storage at each Customer Service Centre

Monthly Performance Appraisal system implemented across the organisation

•

•

Continual cleansing of Name and Address Register

Advertising streamlined to fortnightly schedule resulting in reduced advertising spend

•

Total Incoming documents recorded during 2009/10 = 28,451 (An increase of 6,910 documents from previous year)

•

Corporate Induction held each month for all new employees

•

Employee Opinion Survey conducted with results communicated back to staff

•

Total outgoing documents recorded during 2009/10 = 22,855 (An increase of 10,954 documents from previous year)

•

Employee Probation streamlined

•

Organisation Charts updated in line with the recruitment process

•

Total Forms recorded during 2009/10 = 12,559

•

Implementation of employee years of service card system

•

Organisational Customer Service Strategy developed

•

Data integrity of the system undertaken

•

Regional Customer Service Charter adopted

Equal Employment Opportunity

•

Completed Consultation Sessions with each Directorate on new Customer Contact Centre and Customer Request Management (CRM) system

•

Delivered Customer Contact Centre Proposal presentations for Council, Management Team and staff

The Human Resources team are currently in the process of developing an Equal Employment Opportunity Policy. Preceding the implementation of this Policy, all Council staff will have the opportunity to take part in an EEO survey.

•

Conducted off-site investigations into Customer Contact Centre and CRM systems

•

Reviewed new telephone system in conjunction with IT Department ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 4 4

SA7 EMPOWERING OUR TEAM CONT’D 2009/10

ACHIEVEMENTS

Safety

Disaster Management

Implement and maintain safe workplaces for our people through continual development of Council’s WHS System to best practice standards

To establish and maintain disaster planning and response systems to reduce the likelihood and consequence of disasters on the community

•

Safety ‘Corporate’ Procedures review complete and available on COLIN

•

One-Stop-Shop facilitated with the Department of Communities (Community Recovery)

•

Safety forms and documents reviewed and available on COLIN

•

Local Disaster Management Group met as per legislation (2 x year).

•

Safety Committee elections held and new term committee established

•

Local Emergency Coordination Committee meetings held in Miles and Tara

•

Staff Corporate Induction roll-outs commenced

•

•

Externally audited by Local Government WorkCare, returning a 68.9% result

Flood event in March coordinated, Local Disaster Management Group held debrief

•

Local Disaster Management Plan developed, draft produced.

•

Third Party License Renewal Audit conducted

•

Workplace Health and Safety Queensland conducted Pools Safety Audit in Dalby, Jandowae, Chinchilla and Miles

•

Concept Safety Systems Fire Evacuation program implemented

•

Safety notebooks provided to staff

•

Office staff participated in Ergonomic Training across the region

•

Safety training structure developed. Training conducted includes:  First aid  Confined space  Traffic Control  Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices

•

Lost Time Injury Duration rate decreased from 18.8 to 9.05

•

Participation in Ride to Work Day

•

Participation in Walk to Work Day

Customer Service Centres Provide efficient and effective Customer Service Centres that meet the needs of our communities •

Reviewed the customer service centre structure in collaboration with Community Services to ensure continued delivering high quality customer service to our communities

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 4 5

SA 8 BUSINESS SYSTEMS AND TECHNOLOGY AMBITION

Other Income, 2%

Implement and manage effective

Rates and Levies, 39%

Grants and Subsidies, 33%

business systems and accountable financial practices to serve the needs of Council and the community Interest Received including Investments, 2%

SA 8 Business Systems and Technology incorporates the strategic functions of Financial Planning and Performance, Rating and Utilities Revenue, Asset Management Coordination, Financial Services and Technology Support

2009/10 ACHIEVEMENTS

Fee and Charges, 5%

Sales of Major Services, 17%

Operating expenditure – where our money is spent

Community Financial Report A community financial report contains a summary and analysis of a Local Government’s financial performance and position for the financial year.

Sources of revenue – where our money comes from Total revenue of $91,657,022 was recognised during the period 1 July, 2009 to 30 June, 2010 and consists of operating revenue (including rates and charges) of $80,373,555 and capital revenue (including grants and contributions) of $11,283,467.

The breakup of revenue is depicted in the graph below: Other Income, 2%

Rental and Levies, 3%

Total expenditure of $103,845,153 was recognised during the period 1 July, 2009 to 30 June, 2010 and consists of operating expenditure (including employee costs) of $102,328,972 and capital expenditure of $1,516,181.

The breakup of expenditure is depicted in the graph below: Other Costs, 3% Finance Costs, 1%

Employee Costs, 32%

Depreciation, 36%

Rates and Levies, 39%

Grants and Subsidies, 33%

Materials and Services, 28%

Interest Received including Investments, 2%

Net result for 2009-2010 is an operating deficit of $13,268,759.

Rental and Levies, 3% Fee and Charges, 5% Sales of Major Services, 17%

Capital Works Program Capital works of more than $49.6 million were undertaken during the period 1 July, 2009, to 30 June, 2010. Significant projects include: • Regional Road and Bridge network renewal and improvements ($18.7 million), • Purchase of a new Corporate Headquarters ($4.7 million); • Myall Youth and Community Network Centre ($1.3 million); • Reverse Osmosis Water Treatment Plant ($1.3 million); • Recycled Water Treatment Plant ($1.3 million); and • PCYC (Dalby) Redevelopment ($1 million).

Other Costs, 3% Finance Costs, 1%

Employee Costs, 32%

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010 Depreciation, 36%

PA G E 4 6

SA8 BUSINESS SYSTEMS AND TECHNOLOGY CONT’D 2009/10

ACHIEVEMENTS

Key financial ratios

Debt position

A financial statement ratio is calculated by dividing the dollar amount of one item reported in the financial statements by the dollar amount of the other. This expresses a relationship between two relevant items that is easy to interpret.

Western Downs Regional Council’s outstanding debt as at 30 June, 2010 was $13,393,600.

Ratio

Period to June 30, 2010

Revenue ratio shows the percentage of Council’s revenue that is provided from grants and subsidies.

32.65% This ratio shows Council’s reliance on grants and subsidies is high compared to other sources of income such as fees and charges and poses a risk if these grants were to be removed.

Rates arrears ratio shows the percentage of rates outstanding and illustrates the effectiveness of Council’s debt collection processes.

5.81%

Debt servicing ratio shows the percentage of net rates and utility charges used to service Council’s interest and redemption payment on loans.

1.34%

Working capital ratio represents Council’s ability to service current debt from current assets. The ratio indicates an ample ability to meet shortterm commitments as a result of sound cash flow management.

The graph below shows the combined borrowings for the last two years.

Outstanding Debt Balance 16, 000, 000 14, 000, 000 12, 000, 000 10, 000, 000 8, 000, 000 6, 000, 000 4, 000, 000 2, 000, 000 0

2008/2009

2009/2010

Basic Statistics

6.09

Rates

Period to 30 June, 2010

Number of Rateable Assessments

17,337

Average rates and charges per residential property

$705

Level of rate arrears (millions)

$2.07

Snapshot of the region’s assets The table below illustrates Western Downs Regional Council’s assets as at 30 June, 2010.

Assets Land and site improvements

Total Asset Value

Depreciation / Amortisation for year

Written down value as at 30 June, 2010

$50,238,575

$174,227

$48,982,321

$153,168,005

$1,616,192

$133,050,809

Plant and equipment

$47,057,055

$6,905,216

$32,233,972

Furniture and fittings

$574,475

$84,170

$451,035

Road and bridge network

$947,890,959

$25,839,893

$773,391,223

Water

$104,472,106

$1,127,587

$84,708,883

Sewerage

$72,883,357

$857,944

$55,328,053

Stormwater

$54,719,943

$657,148

$38,157,740

$9,818,008

$110,454

$6,974,160

$50,570

$518

$49,710

$1,792,828

$136,801

$1,631,112

$1,442,665,881

$37,510,150

$1,174,959,018

Buildings

Gas Heritage and cultural assets Intangibles Total

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 4 7

SA8 BUSINESS SYSTEMS AND TECHNOLOGY CONT’D 2009/10

ACHIEVEMENTS

Financial Planning and Performance To plan and monitor the Council’s financial performance •

Developed and adopted a 10 year financial plan

•

Coordinated the development, adoption and review of Council’s budget

•

Implemented a new investment policy and associated procedure

•

Coordinated a review of Council’s fees and charges

Council’s Borrowings Policy for the 2009/10 financial year is attached as an appendix to this report.

•

Commercial Works

National Competition Policy

•

Water

•

Sewerage

•

Jimbour Quarry

•

Dalby Regional Saleyards

Chapters 9 and 11 of the Local Government Act 1993 dealt with the “Code of Competitive Conduct” (CCC) and “Complaints about Competitive Neutrality” respectively. Under Section 768, Council is required to identify in its Annual Report those activities that it considers are Type 3 Business Activities in terms of the National Competition Policy.

Type 3 business activities are defined as: •

Activities trading in goods and services to clients and competes in competition with the private sector;

•

Any roadworks where a tender is submitted on statecontrolled roads or for roadworks called for by another local authority.

Roadworks not included in the above are not considered type 3 activities.

The application of the code for the categories of roadworks outlined above is mandatory. In effect the application of the CCC involves the implementation of full cost pricing to type 3 activities, however, may be modified to reflect the reduced size and scale of the operations.

Application of Competitive Neutrality to Other Business Activities Other business activities (OBAs) undertaken by local government which are not type 1, 2 or 3 activities are defined as services provided which are of a policy, regulatory, planning, community or social nature for which funding is provided predominantly from the Council Budget.

Council on 31 August 2009 resolved to adopt the Code of Competitive Conduct in accordance with Section 766 of the Local Government Act 1993 and to apply the Code of Competitive Conduct for the 2009/10 financial year to the Council businesses of:

Summary of Complaints and Decisions Pursuant to Section 847 of the Local Government Act 1993 Council did not: •

receive any investigation notices for complaints

•

receive any references from the Queensland Competition Authority

Consultancy From 1 July 2009 to 30 June 2010, Council expended a total of $3,206,686.14 in consultancy services.

Overseas Travel During this reporting period no Council employees travelled overseas at the expense of Council.

At it’s meeting held on 2 June 2010 the following Council resolution was made: COUNCIL RESOLUTION MOVED by Cr Tillman and seconded by Cr Smith That Council endorse Councillor Hall’s travel expenses whilst in America to and from Oklahoma and Wyoming to obtain information on the Coal Seam Gas Industry.

CARRIED Total expenses claimed by Cr Hall were nil as at 30 June 2010.

Entertainment or Hospitality Services

•

Main Roads

Entertainment or hospitality services expenses during 2009/10 totalled $139,257.49.

•

Waste Management

Advertising

•

Natural Gas

Advertising expenses during 2009/10 totalled $248,184.84.

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 4 8

SA8 BUSINESS SYSTEMS AND TECHNOLOGY CONT’D 2009/10

ACHIEVEMENTS

Rating and Utilities Revenue

Asset Management Coordination

To implement the Council’s Revenue Policy in relation to rates and utility charges

To coordinate the financial management of the Council’s assets

•

Issued rates notices, water consumption and gas notices

•

Council allowed $323,187.17 in pensioner concessions for the 2009/10 year

•

Implement a further review of general rating categories in response to the required move towards rating parity

In accordance with section 534 of the Local Government Act 1993, Council’s Revenue Policy for the 2009/10 financial year is attached as an appendix to this report.

Financial Services To provide financial service to support the Council’s operations

•

Reviewed Council’s asset register

Land •

Land that is a reserve Under the Land Act 1994:481hectares

•

Area of the reserve controlled by Council including Land leased by it to someone else:- 11,677 hectares

Technology Support To provide technical support to Council’s operations •

Successfully completed domain migration to new domain wdrc.qld.gov.au

•

Implemented preferred supplier and standing offer procurement arrangements

•

Successfully completed Storage Area Network storage upgrade

•

Reviewed Procurement Policy

•

•

Maintain day to day financial service functions (accounts payable and payroll) within service standards

Successfully completed upgrade of Authority to the Portal Interface and version 6.1

•

•

Established inventory (gravel and quarry) financial procedures

Successfully completed upgrade of DataWorks to Version 3.07

•

Standard Work Practice Completed - Civica Logging of Support Calls

•

Standard Work Practice Completed - Remote Access

•

Standard Work Practice Completed - Standard Operating Environment

•

Provide support to network users within service standards

Short-listing After Calling for Expressions of Interest Pursuant to Section 489(1) of the Local Government Act 1993 Council resolved on two (2) occasions to, in the public interest, to invite expressions of interest prior to inviting tenders. Details of the resolutions are:i.

Ordinary Meeting held 14 October 2009 - EOI 1.2/1/09-10 “Dalby PCYC Upgrade of Indoor and Outdoor Sport and Recreation Facilities”

ii.

Ordinary Meeting held 23 June 2010 - EOI 2.7/1/10-11 “Dalby Saleyards Redevelopment”

Changes to Tenders No invitations were offered to tenders under Section 488 (2) of the Local Government Act 1993 to change their tenders during the reporting period.

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 4 9

1.

Councillor Expenses Reimbursement Policy

2.

Borrowing Policy 2009/10

3.

Revenue Policy 2009/10

4.

Audited Financial Statements For Period 1 July 2009 to 30 June 2010

APPENDICES

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010

PA G E 5 0

Council Policy POLICY TITLE:

COUNCILLOR EXPENSES REIMBURSEMENT POLICY

POLICY NO:

OS C/1.1.3

DIRECTORATE:

Organisational Services

LINK TO CORPORATE PLAN:

SA 7 - EMPOWERING OUR TEAM

RESPONSIBLE OFFICER:

Chief Executive Officer

AUTHORISED BY:

Ordinary Meeting of Council - 3 June 2008

ISSUE DATE:

3 June 2008

AMENDMENT DATE/S:

15 October 2008 1 April 2009

DATE REVIEW DUE:

1 May 2010

POLICY OBJECTIVES/PURPOSE: The purpose of this policy is to provide for the proper control of the reimbursement of expenses to Councillors in accordance with State Government legislation.

The policy covers for:  Reimbursement for Councillors of legitimate expenses incurred  Facilities to be provided for Councillors.

ORGANISATIONAL SCOPE: This policy applies to the Mayor and Councillors.

POLICY: 1.

BACKGROUND

Section 250AR of the Local Government Act states: 250AR Chief executive to approve proposed expenses reimbursement policy or amendments of the policy (1)

(2) (3)

(4)

A local government must give to the chief executive a copy of its proposed expenses reimbursement policy, or any proposed amendment of its expenses reimbursement policy, (the proposed policy document) for consideration.

The proposed policy document must comply with any relevant guidelines issued by the chief executive.

If the chief executive considers the proposed policy document complies with the guidelines, the chief executive must approve the proposed policy document and give the local government written notice of the approval.

Also, the chief executive may approve the proposed policy document subject to the local government making the minor changes to the proposed policy document that the chief executive identifies as necessary to comply with the guidelines.

(5)

If subsection (4) does not apply and the chief executive considers the proposed policy document does not comply with the guidelines, the chief executive must give the local government written notice— (a) (b)

2.

advising how the proposed policy document does not comply; and requiring the local government to give the chief executive a copy of the revised proposed policy document for reconsideration.

DEFINITION

Official Council Business Includes Council meetings, pre-arranged meetings with Chief Executive Officer, Directors and Customer Service Centre Managers, officially invited community events and functions where Council has resolved approval to attend.

3.

STATEMENT OF PRINCIPLES

This policy was formulated to ensure compliance with the following statement of principles, set out in the Queensland Government guidelines.

     4.

Reasonable expenses reimbursement to Councillors Public accountability and transparency Public perceptions and community expectations No private benefit to be derived Equity and participation PAYMENT OF EXPENSES

Expenses will be paid to a Councillor through administrative processes approved by the Chief Executive Officer subject to the limits outlined in the table below and Council endorsement by resolution.

Expense Categories Representing Council

Details Where Council resolves Councillors are required to attend conferences or workshops to either deliver a paper or as a delegate of Council, Council may reimburse expenses associated with attending the event since participation is a part of the business of Council.

Professional Development

Mandatory Professional Development Council will reimburse expenses for attendance at the following Council approved mandatory professional development:  training courses or workshops for skills development related to a Councillors role; and  LGAQ Local Government Symposium.

Discretionary Professional Development Where a Councillor identifies the need to attend a conference, workshop or training to improve skills relevant to their role as a Councillor, other than mandatory professional development as above, the Councillor may request Council's approval to attend. Each Councillor is allocated a maximum of $5,000 per term towards registration costs.

Travel Costs

Council will reimburse travel expenses deemed necessary to achieve the business of Council where:  a Councillor is an official representative of Council; and  the activity / event and travel have been endorsed by resolution of Council.

Councillors are required to travel the most direct route, using the most economical and efficient mode of transport.

Any fines incurred while travelling in Council owned vehicles or privately owned vehicles when attending to Council business, will be the responsibility of the Councillor incurring the fine.

All Councillor travel approved by Council will be booked and paid for by Council.

Any travel transfer expenses associated with Councillors travelling for Council approved business will be reimbursed.

Councillor's private vehicle usage will be reimbursed at the Australian Taxation Office cents per kilometre rate if the:  travel has been endorsed by Council resolution; and  claim for mileage is substantiated with log book details; and  total travel claim does not exceed the cost of the same travel using economy flights plus the cost of taxi transfers.

Council will reimburse parking costs incurred by Councillors while attending to official Council business.

Accommodation

All Councillor accommodation for Council business will be booked and paid for by Council. Council will pay for the most economical deal available where possible. The minimum standards for Councillor accommodation will be three star rating.

Where particular accommodation is recommended by conference organisers, Council will take advantage of the package deal that is the most economical and convenient to the event.

Councillor's travelling in excess of one and a half hours to attend a Council meeting will be eligible to claim one night's accommodation where the duration of the meeting exceeds 6 hours or the Mayor and CEO have given prior approval.

Meals

Council will reimburse costs of meals for a Councillor when:  The Councillor incurs the cost personally; and  the meal was not provided within the registration costs of the approved activity/event; and  a copy of a tax invoice is provided.

The following limits apply to the amount Council will reimburse for meals:  Breakfast - $19.60  Lunch - $20.05  Dinner - $34.55

Incidental Allowance

Council will pay an incidental daily allowance of $20 per day to Councillors when they are required to stay away from home overnight for official Council business.

Hospitality Expenses

5.

The Mayor and Councillors may have occasion to incur hospitality expenses while conducting official Council business. Hospitality expenses incurred will typically take the form of meals and beverages. The maximum amount of hospitality expenses that may be reimbursed is $4000 / annum for the Mayor and $500 / annum for Councillors. A copy of a tax invoice is required for reimbursement.

PROVISION OF FACILITIES

All facilities provided to Councillors remain the property of Council and must be returned to Council when a Councillor's term expires.

Councillors will be provided facilities as detailed in the table below and have been based on the principle that no private benefit is to be gained from the facilities provided.

Facilities Categories Administrative Tools

Details Council will provide Councillors the following home office equipment in lieu of a permanent individual office to enable Councillors to carry out their role effectively:  Laptop  Printer  Fax  Stationery A meeting room will be provided at each Customer Service Centre for Councillors, Chief Executive Officer and Directors to utilise when working in the area. Meeting rooms will be required to be booked in advance with the Customer Service Centre Manager.

Internet Access

Councillors will be required to have Internet access to receive Council meeting agendas and communicate via email.

Councillors may choose one of the following options in relation to internet access:  Option 1 - Council connected Internet Internet access provided by a service in Council's name and paid for

by Council.  Option 2 - Councillor connected Internet Internet access provided by a service in the Councillor's name and paid for fully by Council.

Mobile Telephone

Home Telephone

Council will provide a mobile telephone to Councillors for official Council business. Councillors may choose one of the following options in relation to the provision of a mobile telephone:  Option 1 - Council connected Mobile Phone Council provides the mobile phone and pays for all associated costs.

Any personal calls made must be reimbursed to Council.  Option 2 - Councillor personal phone Councillor utilises a personally owned mobile phone and pays all associated costs. Council will reimburse 50% of the costs incurred.

Council will reimburse home telephone line rental, up to a maximum of $44.00 per month. Council will reimburse calls made in relation to official Council business.

Maintenance costs of Council owned equipment

Council will be responsible for the ongoing maintenance and reasonable wear and tear costs of Council owned equipment that is supplied to Councillors for official business use.

Corporate Uniform

Council will provide Councillors with the following corporate equipment:  Name badge  Necessary safety equipment for use on official business e.g. safety helmet/boots  Corporate Jacket  Corporate shirt  Corporate tie/scarf  Corporate Polo Shirt  Business Cards

Vehicles

Due to the vast area which Western Downs Regional Council covers (38,039sq kms) and to encourage Councillors to participate in all Council activities/events held throughout the region, Council has deemed it necessary to provide a vehicle to Councillors for official Council business.

Council authorises the private use of Council vehicles if a Councillor has entered into a lease back contract with Council, which defines the terms of the lease agreement. The Chief Executive Officer is responsible for ensuring the relevant documentation has been completed.

The Mayor will be provided with a six cylinder luxury sedan vehicle.

Councillors will be provided with a six cylinder base model sedan vehicle.

The set leaseback fee will be deducted automatically from the fortnightly Councillor remuneration payments. The leaseback fee will be set by Council resolution and will be reviewed annually.

Insurance Cover

Council will insure Councillors in the event of injury sustained while discharging their duties.

Council will pay the excess for injury claims made by a Councillor resulting from conducting official Council business.

RELATED LEGISLATION: Local Government Act 1993.

RELATED DOCUMENTS (LOCAL LAWS, POLICIES, DELEGATIONS ETC): Nil

ATTACHMENTS: Lease Agreement - Private Use of Vehicle.

DEFINITIONS: As per policy.

REVIEW TRIGGER: List of factors which require the policy to be reviewed eg: Periodic review - annually in line with budget.  Change in legislation

Council Policy POLICY TITLE:

BORROWING POLICY

POLICY NO:

FICT C/2.1.1

DIRECTORATE:

Finance and ICT

LINK TO CORPORATE PLAN:

SA 8 - BUSINESS SYSTEMS AND TECHNOLOGY

RESPONSIBLE OFFICER:

Chief Executive Officer

AUTHORISED BY:

Special Meeting of Council - 31 August 2009

ISSUE DATE:

31 August 2009

AMENDMENT DATE/S: DATE REVIEW DUE:

June 2010

POLICY OBJECTIVES/PURPOSE: The purpose of this policy is to ensure the sound management of Council’s existing and future debt.

ORGANISATIONAL SCOPE: Section 4(d) of the Local Government Finance Standard 2005 states that a local government must develop a policy about borrowings. Furthermore, Council’s borrowing activities are governed by the Statutory Bodies Financial Arrangements Act 1982 and Section 525 of the Local Government Act 1993.

POLICY:

This borrowing policy applies for the 2009/2010 financial year. This policy will be reviewed annually and amended as and when required to meet the prevailing circumstances of Council.

Borrowing Purposes Borrowing will only be used to finance capital works that will provide services now and into the future. No borrowings will be used to finance recurrent expenditure and the operational activities of the Council.

When seeking funding for capital works, Council will, wherever possible, use its existing cash reserves. The use of any existing cash reserves will be subject to maintaining all relevant financial ratios and measures within adopted targets. A debt service ratio of 5% for new infrastructure will be maintained within Council's budgets.

Repayments and Repayment Ability Borrowings will be undertaken for capital works only where the interest and debt principal repayments can be serviced and relevant financial ratios and measures are maintained within approved targets.

Council will discharge debts in the shortest possible time subject to overall budgetary constraints.

New loans will be taken up only if the subsequent increase in debt servicing payments allows the total debtservicing ratio to remain within corporate targets.

Debt Term The term of new loans will be a maximum of twenty years for Water and Sewerage borrowings and a maximum of fifteen years for all other requirements. The debt term shall not exceed the finite life of the related asset.

Borrowing Sources Council shall raise all external borrowing at the most competitive rates available and from sources as defined by legislation.

Proposed Borrowings Based on Council’s most recent review of its capital funding requirements, the following borrowings are identified as being required for the current financial year and the next four financial years.

SCHEDULE OF BORROWINGS

$193,000

Term (years) 20

$475,000

15

$570,000

20

Augmentation of Dalby water to provide an extra 2Ml per day of treated water

$1,230,000

20

As per Bio Refinery agreement

$1,510,000

10

$5,000,000

20

$875,000

20

Construction of extensions and renovations.

$1,000,000

15

Vehicle Washdown Facility - Chinchilla

Construction of vehicle washdown facility at Chinchilla to service the energy and rural industries

$880,000

10

Vehicle Washdown Facility - Dalby

Construction of vehicle washdown facility at Dalby to service the energy and rural industries

$880,000

10

Year

Purpose

2009-2010

Dogwood Crossing at Miles

Extensions and Renovations Construction - Stage 2 Construction of extensions and renovations.

Evaporation ponds lining

2009-2010 2009-2010

Dalby Police Citizens Youth Club Facility Dalby Water

2009-2010

Dalby Water

Construction of Reverse Osmosis Water Treatment Plant

2009-2010

Dalby recycled water

2009-2010

Corporate Office Dalby

Construction of Recycled water plant to supply water to the Dalby Bio Refinery Establishment of new Corporate Office (Acquisition & Renovation)

2009-2010

Dalby Aquatic Centre

Redevelop 50m heritage listed pool

2010-2011

Dalby Police Citizens Youth Club Facility

2010-2011

2010-2011

Amount

Lining of the three existing ponds.

2011-2012

NIL

2012-2013

NIL

2013-2014

NIL

Council will review the requirements for borrowings throughout the 2009/2010 financial year to ensure that loan funds are drawn down at the most advantageous time.

RELATED LEGISLATION: Local Government Finance Standard 2005 Statutory Bodies Financial Arrangements Act 1982 Section 525 of the Local Government Act 1993.

RELATED DOCUMENTS (LOCAL LAWS, POLICIES, DELEGATIONS ETC): Authority in respect of this policy is delegated to the Chief Executive Officer.

ATTACHMENTS: Nil DEFINITIONS: Nil REVIEW TRIGGER:  

Periodic review - annual in line with budget Change in legislation affecting this policy

Revenue Policy 2009/2010

Western Downs Regional Council – Revenue Policy 2009/2010 1.0

LEGISLATIVE AUTHORITY

Local Government Act 1993 - sections 513A, 513B, 520(1) Local Government Finance Standard 1994 - section 3(e), 8A Local Government Reform Implementation Regulation 2008 - section 29 Local Government Regulation 2005 - section 91A to 91D

2.0

INTRODUCTION

Under the Local Government Act 1993, Council is required to review and adopt its Revenue Policy prior to the end of each financial year. The Revenue Policy is intended to be a strategic document.

Its adoption, in advance of setting the budget, allows Council to set out the principles that it will use to set its budget and to identify in broad terms the general strategy to be used for raising revenue.

This Revenue Policy will be of interest to ratepayers, federal and state department, community groups and other interested parties seeking to understand the revenue policies and practices of Council.

The Western Downs Regional Council was created on 15th March 2008 and is comprised of the former Council areas of Chinchilla Shire, Dalby Town, Murilla Shire, Tara Shire, Taroom Shire (Division 2) and Wambo Shire. Specific reform implementation legislation has been enacted to assist Council make and levy rates and charges across its new area.

Western Downs Regional Council is required to adopt a Revenue Policy effective from 1 July 2009 in accordance with section 513A (Preparation and adoption of revenue policy) of the Local Government Act and the Local Government Finance Standard, section 12 (Requirements for revenue policy) This document is prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Local Government Act and Finance Standards and may be cited as the Western Downs Regional Council Revenue Policy.

3.0 PURPOSE The purpose of this Revenue Policy is to set out the principles used by Council for:    

The making of rates and charges; The levying of rates; The recovery of rates and charges; and Concessions for rates and charges.

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Western Downs Regional Council – Revenue Policy 2009/2010 4.0

PRINCIPLES

4.1

Making of rates and charges

In general Western Downs Regional Council will be guided by the principles of user pays principle in the making of rates and charges so as to minimise the impact of rating on the efficiency of the local economy.

Council will also have regard to the principles of:  transparency in the making of rates and charges;  having in place a rating regime that is simple and inexpensive to administer;  equity by taking account of the different levels of capacity to pay within the local community; and  flexibility to take account of changes in the local economy, extraordinary circumstances and impacts that different industries may have on shire infrastructure.

4.2

Levy of rates

In levying rates, Council will apply the principles of:  making clear what is the Councils and each ratepayers responsibility to the rating system;  making the levying system simple and inexpensive to administer;  timing the levy of rates to take into account the financial cycle of local economic activity, in order to assist smooth running of the local economy; and  equity through flexible payment arrangements for ratepayers with a lower capacity to pay.

4.3

Recovery of rates and charges

Council will exercise its rate recovery powers in order to reduce the overall rate burden on ratepayers. It will be guided by the principles of:  transparency by making clear the obligations of ratepayers and the processes used by Council in assisting them meet their financial obligations;  making the processes used to recover outstanding rates and charges clear, simple to administer and cost effective;  equity by having regard to providing the same treatment for ratepayers with similar circumstances; and  flexibility by responding where necessary to changes in the local economy.

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Western Downs Regional Council – Revenue Policy 2009/2010 4.4

Concessions for rates and charges

In considering the application of concessions, Council will be guided by the principles of:   

5.0

equity by having regard to the different levels of capacity to pay within the local community, the same treatment for ratepayers with similar circumstances; transparency by making clear the requirements necessary to receive concessions, and flexibility to allow Council to respond to local economic issues.

DATE REVIEWED

June 2009

6.0

NEXT REVIEW

April 2010

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Western Downs Regional Council – Revenue Policy 2009/2010 Appendix 1 - Extracts of legislation relevant to this policy.

1

Local Government Act 1993 - Chapter 7 Part 2A – REVENUE POLICY 513A Preparation and adoption of revenue policy (1) A local government must, for each financial year, prepare and, by resolution, adopt a revenue policy.

(2) The local government must ensure each revenue policy is prepared and adopted in enough time, before the start of the financial year for which it is prepared, to allow preparation and adoption of a budget for the financial year consistent with the policy.

(3) When the policy is adopted by the local government, it becomes the local government’s revenue policy for the financial year for which it is prepared.

513B Requirements and contents of revenue policy (1) A local government’s revenue policy, or an amendment of its revenue policy, must comply with the Local Government Finance Standards.

(2) The revenue policy must, if, under section 1035A, the local government intends to remit rates or defer payment of rates for the financial year, state the purpose of the remittance or deferral.

(3) A local government may, by resolution, amend its revenue policy for a financial year at any time before the financial year ends.

513C Copies of revenue policy to be available for inspection and purchase A local government must – (a) ensure its revenue policy is open to inspection; and (b) make copies available for purchase at its public office at a price not more than the cost to the local government of producing the copy and, if a copy is supplied to a purchaser by post, the cost of postage.

1

Local Government Finance Standards –Part 2, 8A Revenue policy – financial years from 1 July 2003 (1) A local government’s revenue policy for a financial year must include details of the principles applied by it for the financial year for the following – (a) making and levying rates and charges; (b) exercising its powers to grant rebates and concessions; (c) recovery of unpaid amounts of rates and charges.

(2) This section applies to a financial year beginning on or after 1 July 2003.

Local Government Reform Implementation Regulation 2008 – Section 29 Revenue policy (1) Until 1 July 2008, section 513A of the Act and the Local Government Finance Standard, section 12, do not apply to a new local government.

Editor’s note— section 513A (Preparation and adoption of revenue policy) of the Act and the Local Government Finance Standard, section 12 (Requirements for revenue policy) (2) From 1 July 2008, sections 513A, 513B(2) and (3) and 513C of the Act and the Community Government Finance Standard, section 10, apply to NPARC and TSIRC as if each was a community government under that standard.

Editor’s note— sections 513A (Preparation and adoption of revenue policy), 513B (Requirements and content of revenue policy) and 513C (Copies of revenue policy to be available for inspection and purchase) of the Act and the Community Government Finance Standard, section 10 (Revenue policy) Local Government Regulation 2005 – sections 91A – 91 D 91A Declaration that this part is a transitional regulation—Act, s 159YQA This part is a transitional regulation under section 159YQA of the Act.

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Western Downs Regional Council – Revenue Policy 2009/2010 91B Application of definitions for ch 3, pts 1B and 1C of the Act Words defined for chapter 3, parts 1B and 1C of the Act have the same meaning in this part.

91C Definitions for pt 17A In this part— reform matters includes the repeal of the Community Services (Torres Strait) Act 1984. relevant adjusted area, for an adjusted local government, means a part of the local government’s local government area that, immediately before the changeover day for the local government area, was part of the local government area of another adjusted local government. relevant area, for an indigenous regional council, means a part of the indigenous regional council’s local government area that, immediately before the changeover day for the local government area, was the local government area of a merging local government. relevant financial year means a financial year starting on or after 1 July 2008 and ending on or before 30 June 2012. relevant merged area, for a new local government, means a part of the local government’s local government area that, immediately before the changeover day for the local government area, was all or part of the local government area of a merging local government.

91D Transitional provision for rates and charges for new local governments (1) A new local government may, for a relevant financial year, and for a relevant merged area for the new local government, make and levy rates and charges under chapter 14 of the Act in the same way, and in the same amounts, that the merging local government could have made and levied rates and charges if the reform matters had not taken effect.

Example— On the changeover day for the new local government area of Bundaberg Regional Council, the local government area of a merging local government, Burnett Shire Council, was included in the local government area of Bundaberg Regional Council. This section allows Bundaberg Regional Council to make and levy rates and charges for the included area in the same way and in the same amounts that Burnett Shire Council could have made and levied rates and charges for the included area if no creation of new local government areas, as provided for in chapter 3, part 1B of the Act, had ever taken place. This would include the power to raise or lower the levels of rates and charges, just as Burnett Shire Council could have done.

(2) This section does not purport to limit how a new local government may act under chapter 14 of the Act.

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ANNUAL REPORT

Audited Financial Statements For Period 1 July 2009 to 30 June 2010

ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2009 TO 30 JUNE 2010