Agenda of Northern Beaches Council Meeting

Northern Beaches Council Meeting - 15 July 2025

ORDER OF BUSINESS

1.0 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

2.0 Apologies and applications for leave of absence and remote attendance

3.0 Confirmation of Minutes of Previous Meetings

3.1 Minutes of the Ordinary Northern Beaches Council Meeting held on 17 June 2025.. 5

4.0 disclosures of interest

5.0 Public Forum AND PUBLIC ADDRESS

6.0 Items Resolved by Exception

7.0 Mayoral Minutes.................................................................................................. 7

7.1 Mayoral Minute No 7/2025 - Student Bicycle Licence Scheme................................... 7

7.2 Mayoral Minute No 8/2025 - Reinstating the State Government's Business Connect Program........................................................................................................................ 9

8.0 Chief Executive Officer's Division Reports

Nil

9.0 Corporate Services Division Reports..................................................... 11

9.1 Audit Risk and Improvement Committee Confirmed Minutes - 4 March 2025.......... 11

9.2 Suspension of the Alcohol Free Zone in Manly CBD Area for Manly Jazz 2025...... 13

9.3 Review and Revocation of Various Policies............................................................... 16

9.4 Monthly Investment Report - May 2025..................................................................... 20

10.0 Community and Recreation Division Reports....................................... 32

10.1 Outcome of Public Exhibition - Proposal to Establish Alcohol Free Zones............... 32

10.2 Review of Social Sustainability Policy........................................................................ 40

11.0 Environment and Open Space Division Reports................................... 43

11.1 Outcome of Public Exhibition - Tree Management Policy......................................... 43

12.0 Planning and Place Division Reports....................................................... 50

12.1 Northern Beaches Business Industry and Stakeholder Committee Confirmed Minutes - 2 June 2025................................................................................................................... 50

13.0 Transport and Assets Division Reports

Nil

14.0 Notices of Motion.............................................................................................. 52

14.1 Notice of Motion No 26/2025 - Issues with Building Information Certificates and Gaming of Development Applications...................................................................................... 52

14.2 Notice of Motion No 27/2025 - Future of Manly Town Hall........................................ 54

14.3 Notice of Motion No 28/2025 - International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN) – Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons and Endorsement of the Cities Appeal.................................................................................................................................... 55

14.4 Notice of Motion No 29/2025 - Child Protection......................................................... 57

14.5 Notice of Motion No 30/2025 - Back Your Neighbour Campaign.............................. 58

14.6 Notice of Motion No 31/2025 - Review of Plastic Use in Council Infrastructure....... 59

15.0 Questions with Notice

Nil

16.0 Responses to Questions................................................................................. 61

16.1 Response to Question with Notice No 17/2025 - Complaints/Code of Conduct Complaints Received from the Community about Councillors’ Conduct................... 61

16.2 Response to Question with Notice No 18/2025 - Complaints/Code of Conduct Complaints Received from Councillors about Councillors......................................... 62

16.3 Response to Question with Notice No 19/2025 - Staff training Regarding Suicide and Other Critical Events................................................................................................... 63

17.0 matters proposed to take place in closed session........................ 64

17.1 RFT 2024/182 - Long Reef Boardwalk

17.2 Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee - Recruitment

17.3 Direct Service Delivery

18.0 Report of Resolutions Passed in Closed Session

Item 7.2 Northern Beaches Council MEETING - 15 July 2025

ITEM 7.2

Mayoral Minute No 8/2025 - Reinstating the State Government's Business Connect Program

PURPOSE

The purpose of this mayoral minute is to urge the NSW Government to reinstate the Business Connect program and continue to invest in small business.

A close-up of a signature

Description automatically generated

Sue Heins

MAYOR

RECOMMENDATION

That Council write to the Premier, the Treasurer, the Minister for Small Business, the Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government, the Leader of the Opposition, the Shadow Treasurer, the Shadow Minister for Small Business, the Shadow Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government and our 4 local State Members of Parliament:

1. Conveying Council’s major concerns regarding the decision to cease funding for the Business Connect Program.

2. Asking that the NSW Government reinstate funding for the Business Connect program without delay.

BACKGROUND

The State Government has announced it will no longer fund the Business Connect program in the 2025-2026 state budget. This decision was made with absolutely no consultation with local government nor local business advocate agencies such as Business NSW and Realise Business.

Business Connect supports all stages of business and provides advice and practical insights on essential business management topics, such as business planning, marketing, cash flow, procurement /selling to government and access to finance.

Creative industry advisers and specialist support for multicultural businesses are also available to support business success.

The closure of this program will have an enormous impact on small businesses who depend on this support and ultimately will impact our local economies. It is the ONLY free service that small businesses can access to support them to survive in the current economic climate and ultimately to grow their business and provide employment opportunities for our local community.

The Leader of the Opposition, the Hon. Mark Speakman, SC MP has publicly condemned the State Government’s decision stating, “the government’s decision would hurt not just business owners, but also jobs and economic recovery across NSW”. I want to echo his comments and speak up on behalf of our local businesses who will be impacted by this decision.

On the Northern Beaches, our economy relies heavily on the strength of our local business community. We have more than 33,000 registered businesses employing over 116,000 people, with small businesses making up the majority. These businesses are critical to our local economy and community wellbeing.

Since 2017, the Business Connect program has supported more than 60,000 small businesses across NSW, helping them navigate through economic uncertainty and recover from natural disasters.

In 2024 to 2025, over 140 Northern Beaches businesses relied on the program for expert advice to strengthen their operations and plan for growth. It delivers practical, proven results that businesses value. As one local business owner shared:

“Today’s session was invaluable… The tailored recommendations gave us practical next steps that will directly improve our performance.”

Our Council staff work closely with Service NSW to deliver the Business Connect program locally. Through our Let’s Chat Business concierge program, we connect local businesses directly to Business Connect, making it faster and easier to access expert advice through strong collaboration between state and local government.

Cancelling the Business Connect program cuts off that vital connection. It shifts the responsibility back to councils and our ratepayers to fund support programs without providing the resources or expertise required to deliver the same targeted support.

The June 2025 Business NSW Confidence Survey reports a sharp drop in confidence to minus 50.8, the lowest in recent quarters. Business owners are under pressure, and the need for targeted, practical support is absolutely clear. Now is the time to strengthen assistance for small business, not scale it back.

We must urge the NSW Government to reinstate Business Connect and continue investing in small business success and we want to continue working with the State Government on practical solutions that give businesses the tools they need to grow and contribute to a stronger NSW economy.

I ask Councillors to join me in sending a strong message to the State Government that it must reinstate the Business Connect program.

TRIM file ref	2025/458602
Attachments	Nil

Item 9.2 Northern Beaches Council MEETING - 15 July 2025

ITEM 9.2

Suspension of the Alcohol Free Zone in Manly CBD Area for Manly Jazz 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this report is to recommend that Council suspend part of the Alcohol Free Zone on The Corso in Manly to accommodate the operation of a temporary licensed Jazz Garden activation as part of the Manly Jazz event in 2025.

Executive Summary

· Manly Jazz is in its 48^th year and has a long tradition of promoting a diversity of jazz music including school jazz bands, and a mix of local and community artists.

· The 2024 event featured a Jazz Garden, offering a relaxed space where attendees could enjoy live music, the open space of The Corso and socialise with friends and family; given its popularity, the inclusion of the Jazz Garden is proposed again for this year’s event.

· The Jazz Garden is proosed to operate under the liquor licence of a third-party operator on: Friday 19 September 2025, 4 - 8pm; Saturday 20 September 2025, 11am - 6.30pm; and Sunday 21 September 2025, 11am - 6.30pm.

· A third-party operator has been procured in line with Council policy to activate the space.

· As the proposed temporary Jazz Garden area on The Corso is situated within an Alcohol Free Zone, if Council wishes to proceed with a licensed area in the Jazz Garden, it is necessary for Council to suspend the operation of part of the Alcohol Free Zone.

· Northern Beaches Police Area Command Licensing Unit has endorsed the proposal.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council:

1. Suspend operation of part of the Alcohol Free Zone on The Corso for the Manly Jazz event within the designated Jazz Garden area (as shown in Attachment 1) on: Friday 19 September 2025, 4 - 8pm; Saturday 20 September 2025, 11am - 6.30pm; and Sunday 21 September 2025,11am - 6.30pm.

2. Note that staff will continue to liaise with Northern Beaches Police Area Command Licensing Unit in relation to the safe management of the area during the suspensions.

3. Delegate to the Chief Executive Officer to do all things necessary to give effect to this resolution, including the publication of notices of suspension as required under section 645 of the Local Government Act 1993.

Background

Manly Jazz is in its 48^th year and has a long tradition of promoting a diversity of jazz music including school jazz bands that come from across Sydney, along with a mix of local and community artists and occasionally visiting international artists. They perform across multiple stages in Manly over a weekend dedicated to the celebration of jazz music.

The event strives to support and promote local businesses, increase visitation and visitor spend in Manly and further enhance Manly’s reputation as a destination for great music and hospitality.

Discussion

To continually improve the visitor experience in Manly and at the event, it is proposed to again include a Jazz Garden within the program for 2025 to add a unique element to the event to attract new visitors and encourage people to stay longer in Manly.

The temporary Jazz Garden activation would occupy a space of approximately 14 metres x 40 metres on The Corso, east of the Beachfront stage (see Attachment 1).

The activation would sell alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and food products, in line with Responsible Service of Alcohol requirements. To achieve this, a resolution of Council is required to temporarily suspend the Alcohol Free Zone in this area to allow the sale and consumption of alcohol.

Under the provisions of section 645(1) of the Local Government Act 1993, Council ‘may, at the request of any person or body or of its own motion, suspend the operation of an alcohol-free zone by publishing a notice of the suspension in a manner that the council is satisfied is likely to bring the notice to the attention of members of the public in the area as a whole or in a part of the area that includes the zone concerned’.

The proposed Jazz Garden would be operated by a third party procured in accordance with Council policy.

Following the successful delivery of the Jazz Garden in 2024 with no incidents reported by Police or Council staff, it is proposed that the activation be reinstated this year. Also to note, Manly Jazz has hosted other activations such as the pop-up wine garden that was first trialled in 2014 and continued annually until 2019, with no incidents reported by Police or Council staff.

Consultation

The proposal for this year’s event is endorsed by the Northern Beaches Police Area Command Licensing Unit.

Council will continue to work with Northern Beaches Police Area Command Licencing Unit to ensure the safe operation of the Jazz Garden during the event.

Timing

Manly Jazz will take place from Friday 19 September to Sunday 21 September 2025. The Jazz Garden would operate on Friday 19 September from 4pm - 8pm, Saturday 20 September from 11am - 6.30pm, and Sunday 21 September from 11am - 6.30pm. It would operate under a liquor licence of the third-party operator during these times only.

Due to the event timing in September 2025, the endorsement of Council is required at the July meeting to allow sufficient planning time for all stakeholders.

Financial Considerations

The recommendations of this report pose no financial impact on Council. The opportunity for the third-party operator to run the Jazz Garden will provide a revenue stream for the event.

Governance and Risk Considerations

Council has worked closely with Northern Beaches Police Area Command Licensing Unit to establish the parameters in which the third-party operator can run the Jazz Garden during Manly Jazz.

The selected operator would be required to submit a risk assessment and will be subject to the authority of Police and liquor licensing requirements to ensure the responsible service of alcohol.

It would also be a condition of the agreement to operate the Jazz Garden, that the operator must comply with directions from Police or Council to cease operations for any reason to ensure public safety. This may include a liquor licence breach or an alcohol-related incident.

There have been no alcohol-related incidents recorded by Police or Council resulting from the suspension of the Alcohol Free Zone for the purpose of the Jazz Garden at this location in previous years.

Environmental Considerations

The subject of this report has no adverse environmental implications for Council. The Jazz Garden will be compliant with Council’s waste management plan and no single use plastics policy.

Social Considerations

The recommendations in this report will have a positive social outcome for the community by:

· Expanding cultural events and creative opportunities, to enable social interaction/cohesion and stimulate wellbeing, enhancing and extending opportunities for a sustainable tourist economy throughout the area.

· Facilitating active, safe, and welcoming centres for residents and visitors during the day and into the evening.

· Facilitating collaboration between businesses and government on projects.

Link to Strategy

This report relates to the Events Strategy 2018-2023 Outcomes and Goals:

· Goal 1: Support a diverse and exciting annual events program that is welcoming, inclusive, safe and that adds value to the Northern Beaches community.

· Goal 2: Activate our town centres and villages to reflect community aspirations, create vibrancy and enhance our sense of place.

· Goal 3: Boost the economic and tourism benefits of events in key destinations.

· Goal 4: Work in partnership with event organisers in a customer focused manner to promote the delivery of events.

This report relates to the Community Strategic Plan Outcomes and Goals:

· Community and belonging - Goal 7 Our community has access to a diverse range of cultural activities and events.

· Community and belonging - Goal 9 Our community is inclusive and connected.

· Good governance and participation - Goal 20 Our Council is proactive, and efficiently and effectively responds to, and delivers on, the evolving needs of the community.

Reporting team	Community Engagement & Communications
TRIM file ref	2025/368264
Attachments	⇨1 Suspension of the Alcohol Free Zone in Manly CBD Area - Site Map - Manly Jazz 2025 (Included In Attachments Booklet)

Item 9.3 Northern Beaches Council MEETING - 15 July 2025

ITEM 9.3

Review and revocation of various policies

Purpose

The purpose of this report is to seek the adoption of one Council policy and the revocation of 3 Council policies.

Executive Summary

· Council’s Policy Framework (Framework) outlines the strategic principles for certain corporate documents including Council policies.

· Council is progressively reviewing all corporate documents covered by the Framework.

· The Legislative Compliance Policy has been reviewed and is proposed to be adopted with minor administrative changes.

· With the recent adoption of the Management of Beach and Water Safety Policy, the former Manly Council’s Beach Management Policy is no longer required and is proposed to be revoked.

· The former Manly Council’s Seawalls – Construction and Replacement Policy and Foreshores – Public Right of Way – Ocean and Harbour Policy have also been reviewed and are no longer required and are proposed to be revoked.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council:

1. Adopt the Legislative Compliance Policy.

2. Revoke the:

a. Beach Management Policy

b. Seawalls – Construction and Replacement Policy

c. Foreshores – Public Right of Way – Ocean and Harbour Policy.

Background

Council adopted a Policy Framework (Framework) at the Ordinary Council meeting held on 28 November 2023. The Framework provides the strategic principles for all Council policies and sets out the governance arrangements for the establishment and review of Council policies and other internal facing corporate documents.

All existing Council policies and other relevant internal corporate documents are progressively being reviewed in accordance with the settings of the Framework which provide that Council policies:

· provide high level strategic direction, are linked to Council’s Community Strategic Plan (CSP) and/or are required by relevant legislation and have community focus and/or significant public interest

· will, where appropriate, adopt and implement relevant model NSW Government policies which have been prepared for local government, rather than establish discrete Council policies on the same topic

· will not simply duplicate or re-state legislative requirements but, where appropriate, may expand on Council’s application of legislation.

The Framework provides that Tier 1 documents (Council policies) are governed by resolution of the elected Council, and the management of Tier 2 and 3 documents are the operational responsibility of the Chief Executive Officer.

Discussion

Legislative Compliance Policy

The Legislative Compliance Policy guides Council’s commitment and approach to legislative compliance. The policy is due for its scheduled review.

The policy has been reviewed and is found to be broadly consistent with Council’s Policy Framework. Some minor amendments are proposed to reflect current practices. Those proposed changes are highlighted for ease of reference at Attachment 1.

The draft policy was presented to the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee (ARIC) at its June 2025 meeting with no further amendments proposed by ARIC. It is not proposed to exhibit the minor administrative changes prior to adoption.

Beach Management Policy

The Management of Beach and Water Safety Policy was originally adopted on 24 September 2019 and reviewed in April 2025. The policy outlines the principles by which Council facilitates the safe and enjoyable use of beaches and rock pools under its management.

At the time of adoption, Council resolved to revoke all but specific elements of the former Manly Council’s Beach Management Policy (Attachment 2), pending their incorporation into a broader Council policy. The only elements retained from the former policy related to the ban on kite flying at Manly Beach and the management of beach events.

It is now proposed that Council revoke the remaining elements of the former policy. This change would remove the explicit ban on kite flying at Manly Beach. However, Council retains the ability to manage kite flying and similar activities under existing legislative provisions:

· Section 125 of the Local Government Act 1993 (Act) empowers Council to abate public nuisances.

· Should kite flying become a broader issue, Council may install signage under section 632 of the Act, which allows regulation of public behaviour through notices in public places.

Beach and reserve events, along with commercial activities, continue to be effectively managed under sections 47 and 68 of the Act. As such, the existing policy commentary is no longer required to facilitate appropriate management of these activities.

Seawalls – Construction and Replacement Policy

The Seawall Construction and Replacement Policy (former Manly) (Attachment 3) was originally adopted in 1975, preceding the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, and relates to the design and construction of seawalls in the former Manly local government area. The Policy requires new or replacement seawalls to be constructed from sandstone or natural coloured concrete. The other two former Councils had no such Policy and relied on the controls contained in their Development Control Plans (DCP).

The existing DCP of the former Manly Council, which is still in operation, also contains design criteria relating to seawalls and is used to help inform and assess development applications and complying development certificates containing seawalls.

The DCP control requires consideration of materials and finishes to complement the surrounding environment/area, and natural foreshore character, and not have an adverse impact on the amenity or aesthetic appearance of the foreshore. It is considered that the controls in the DCP that relate to seawalls provide Council with sufficient ability to regulate the construction of seawalls in a sympathetic manner with the environment.

Revocation of this policy does not change Council’s ability to regulate the design, construction and maintenance of seawalls, nor does revocation allow for the construction of seawalls previously prohibited under the policy.

Foreshores – Public Right of Way – Ocean and Harbour Policy

The former Manly Council adopted the Foreshores – Public Right of Way – Ocean and Harbour Policy (Attachment 4) in 1967 to ensure that public access to public land along foreshores was not obstructed by private development.

The Policy predated the Environment Planning and Assessment Act 1979 and the Act which amongst other things provide greater protection and transparency for the use and development of public land through zonings, categorisation of public land and plans of management.

The public access to foreshores is now protected through the relevant zoning of land through the Manly Local Environment Plan 2013 and relevant Plans of Management. The Policy has been superseded by the instruments and the legislation and is therefore recommended for revocation.

CONSULTATION

It is not proposed to exhibit the proposed revocations of these policies or the minor amendments to the Legislative Compliancy Policy prior to adoption.

Financial Considerations

The recommendations of this report do not result in any change to the existing Council budget.

Governance and Risk Considerations

The recommendations of this report are in line with Council’s Policy Framework. The Framework provides for an improved governance outcome for the management of Council policies.

Environmental Considerations

There are no material environmental impacts to consider in respect of the recommendations of this report.

Social Considerations

Policies are an important tool for Council to communicate its strategic direction to the community and provide visibility of the governance framework in line with Council’s key Community Strategic Plan outcome of Good Governance.

Link to Strategy

This report relates to the Community Strategic Plan Outcome and Goal:

· Good governance and participation- Goal 19 Our Council is transparent and trusted to make decisions that reflect the values of the community.

Reporting team

Governance & Assurance Services

TRIM file ref

2025/391531

Attachments

⇨1 Draft Legislative Compliance Policy (Included In Attachments Booklet)

⇨2 Beach Management Policy (Included In Attachments Booklet)

⇨3 Seawalls - Construction and Replacement Policy (Included In Attachments Booklet)

⇨4 Foreshores Public Right of Way Ocean and Harbour Policy (Included In Attachments Booklet)

Item 9.4 Northern Beaches Council MEETING - 15 July 2025

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ITEM 9.4

Monthly Investment Report - May 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this report is to provide details of all money that Council has invested under section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993 (Act).

Executive Summary

· In accordance with section 212 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 (Regulation), the Responsible Accounting Officer must provide Council with a written report on a monthly basis setting out details of all money that Council has invested under section 625 of the Act.

· The Responsible Accounting Officer has certified that the investments listed in the report have been made in accordance with the Act, the Regulation and Council’s Investment Policy.

· As at 31 May 2025, Council had total cash and investments of $221,724,412 comprising:

Trading Accounts	$4,232,827
Investments	$217,491,585

· The portfolio achieved a return of 0.399% for the month of May, which was 0.059% above the benchmark AusBond Bank Bill Index return of 0.34%.

· The weighted average interest rate of the portfolio at month end is 4.78%, compared to 4.86% for the prior month.

· Total investment income year to date (YTD) to May 2025 was $10.2 million compared to the current YTD budget of $9.8 million.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council note the Investment Report as at 31 May 2025, including the certification by the Responsible Accounting Officer.

Background

In accordance with section 212 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 (Regulation), a report setting out the details of money invested must be presented to Council on a monthly basis.

The report must also include certification as to whether or not the investments have been made in accordance with the Local Government Act 1993, the Regulation and Council’s Investment Policy.

The details of the report (the key aspects of which are in the Executive Summary) are set out below, together with the Responsible Accounting Officer’s certification.

CERTIFICATION – RESPONSIBLE ACCOUNTING OFFICER

I hereby certify that the investments listed in this report have been made in accordance with section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993, section 212 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 and existing Investment Policies – Caroline Foley, Chief Financial Officer.

INVESTMENT REPORT

Investment Balances

*Rating is based on a private rating advised by the issuer to Council’s Investment Advisors.

Portfolio Analysis

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Institutional Credit Framework – Compliance with Investment Policy Requirements

Clause 4.2.2 of Council’s Investment Policy requires that exposure to an individual institution be restricted by their credit rating so that single entity exposure is limited, as detailed in the table below:

S&P Long Term Rating*	S&P Short Term Rating*	Maximum %	Portfolio Complies with Policy?
AAA (incl. government guaranteed deposits)	A-1+	50%	Yes
AA+
AA
AA-
A+	A-1	40%	Yes
A	A-1	40%	Yes
A-	A-2	30%	Yes
BBB+
BBB
BBB-	A-3	10%	Yes
Unrated**TCorp Funds	Unrated**	5%	Yes ($Nil)
Unrated***ADIs	Unrated***	$250,000	Yes ($Nil)

* Or Moody’s / Fitch equivalents

** Unrated Category is restricted to eligible managed funds such as the NSW Treasury Corporation Hour Glass Facilities

*** Unrated ADIs (Authorised Deposit-taking Institution) Category is restricted to those ADIs that are under the Australian government guarantee scheme and limited to maximum $250,000 per unrated ADI.

Overall Portfolio Credit Framework – Compliance with Investment Policy Requirements

Clause 4.2.1 of Council’s Investment Policy requires that the total percentage exposure within the market to any particular credit rating category be limited, as detailed in the table below:

S&P Long Term Rating*	S&P Short Term Rating*	Maximum %	Portfolio Complies with Policy?
AAA (incl. government guaranteed deposits)	A-1+	100%	Yes
AA+
AA
AA-
A+	A-1	100%	Yes
A
A-	A-2	80%	Yes
BBB+
BBB
BBB-	A-3	30%	Yes
Unrated**	Unrated**	5%	Yes ($Nil)

* Or Moody’s / Fitch equivalents

** Unrated Category is restricted to eligible managed funds such as the NSW Treasury Corporation Hour Glass Facilities and ADIs covered by the government guarantee scheme.

Term to Maturity Framework – Compliance with Investment Policy Requirements

Clause 4.2.4 of Council’s Investment Policy requires Council’s investment portfolio is to be invested within the following maturity constraints:

Overall Portfolio Term to Maturity Limits			Portfolio Complies with Policy?
Portfolio % <1 year	Min 40%	Max 100%	Yes
Portfolio % >1 year ≤3 year	Min 0%	Max 60%	Yes
Portfolio % >3 year ≤5 year	Min 0%	Max 30%	Yes

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Environmental and Social Considerations

Portfolio investments: Fossil Fuel vs Non-Fossil Fuel Banks:

Portfolio Summaries	Fossil Fuel Lending ADIs	Non-Fossil Fuel Lending ADIs
As at 31 May 2025	55.1%	44.9%

Investment Performance vs Benchmark

a) Portfolio Return vs Benchmark

	Investment Portfolio Return *	Benchmark: AusBond Bank Bill Index
1 Month	0.399%	0.34%
3 Months	1.196%	1.05%
FYTD	4.579%	4.06%
12 Months	5.026%	4.42%

* Excludes trading account balances

Council’s Investment Advisors have stated this form of portfolio reporting conforms to global investment performance standards and that these standards say that periods below 12 months should not be annualised.

The above table shows a comparison of Council’s investment portfolio return to the benchmark. Council’s Investment Advisor, Laminar Capital, has created an accumulation index for the portfolio which increases each month by the portfolio internal rate of return to enable meaningful comparison to the benchmark AusBond Bank Bill index, which is an accumulation index.

The Bloomberg AusBond Bank Bill Index is engineered to measure the Australian money market by representing a passively managed short term money market portfolio. This index is comprised of 13 synthetic instruments defined by rates interpolated from the RBA 24-hour cash rate, 1M BBSW, and 3M BBSW.

The portfolio achieved a return of 0.399% for the month of May which was 0.059% above the benchmark AusBond Bank Bill Index return of 0.34%. For the past 12 months the portfolio achieved a return of 5.026%, which was 0.606% above the benchmark AusBond Bank Bill Index return of 4.42%.

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b) Portfolio Interest Rate vs Benchmark

	Weighted Average Portfolio Interest Rate (%pa) *	Average RBA Cash Rate
1 Month	4.78%	3.85%
3 Months	4.84%	4.02%
6 Months	4.89%	4.14%
FYTD	4.96%	4.24%
12 Months	4.98%	4.25%

* Excludes trading account balances

The above table shows the weighted average interest rate of the portfolio as at month end. This is an average of all the interest rates that each term deposit is earning. It is the current earning rate of the portfolio, and this information is useful as it shows how the earning rate changes each month in line with changes in market interest rates. Each time a term deposit matures during the month it is being reinvested at current interest rates. To facilitate meaningful comparison, the weighted average interest rate of the portfolio is compared to the average Reserve Bank of Australia Cash Rate for the same period.

The weighted average interest rate of the portfolio is 4.78%, compared to 4.86% for the prior month. For the past 12 months the weighted average interest rate of the portfolio was 4.98% compared to the average Reserve Bank of Australia Cash Rate of 4.25%.

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Investment Income* vs Budget

	Year to Date $
Investment Income	10,144,989
Adjustment for Fair Value	18,417
Total Investment Income	10,163,406

Budgeted Income	9,773,769

*Includes all cash and investment holdings

Statement of Compliance

Portfolio Performance vs Bank Bill Index over 12-month period.	✔	Council’s investment performance did exceed benchmark.
Monthly Income vs Budget	✔	Council’s income from investments did exceed monthly budget.
Investment Policy Compliance
Legislative Requirements	✔	Fully compliant
Portfolio Credit Rating Limit	✔	Fully compliant
Institutional Exposure Limits	✔	Fully compliant
Term to Maturity Limits	✔	Fully compliant

Restricted cash, cash equivalents and investments

At the end of May 2025 total cash & investments were $221,724,412 and were made up of the following reserve allocations.

Allocation of Funds	Amount ($)	Percentage
Externally Restricted	$63m	28.3%
Internally Restricted	$85m	38.3%
Total Restricted	$148m	66.6%
Unrestricted	$74m	33.4%
Total	$222m	100.0%

Financial Considerations

Actual investment income for the period from 1 July 2024 to date was $10,163,405 compared to budgeted income of $9,773,769, a positive variance of $389,636 as a result of both a higher than anticipated level of investments and higher investment interest rates. The current budget for the full year is $10,394,545 in investment income.

Governance and Risk Considerations

A revised Investment Policy was adopted by Council at its meeting on 26 July 2022. The Policy is reviewed annually by the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee. It was reviewed by the Committee at its meeting in December 2024, and no changes to the Policy were proposed.

Council’s Investment Policy and Strategy was reviewed in September 2024 by Council’s Investment Advisors, Laminar Capital Pty Ltd, who confirmed that the current policy “remains consistent with the Ministerial Investment Order and guidelines issued by the Chief Executive (Local Government), Department of Premier and Cabinet” and that they “do not recommend any changes to the list of approved investments or credit limit frameworks”.

Environmental Considerations

Council’s investments are managed in accordance with Council’s Investment Policy. Council’s Investment Policy requires consideration of environmental responsibility when making investment decisions.

Social Considerations

Council’s investments are managed in accordance with Council’s Investment Policy. Council’s Investment Policy requires consideration of social responsibility when making investment decisions.

Link to Strategy

This report relates to the Community Strategic Plan Outcome and Goal:

· Good governance and participation - Goal 19 Our Council is transparent and trusted to make decisions that reflect the values of the community.

Reporting team	Finance
TRIM file ref	2025/425478
Attachments	Nil

Item 10.1 Northern Beaches Council MEETING - 15 July 2025

10.0 Community and Recreation Division Reports

ITEM 10.1

Outcome of Public Exhibition - Proposal to establish Alcohol Free Zones

PURPOSE

The purpose of this report is to present the outcome of the public exhibition of the proposal to re-establish existing Alcohol Free Zones (AFZs) in Brookvale, Church Point, Dee Why, Freshwater, Manly and Narrabeen and to establish new AFZs with altered boundaries in Avalon, Collaroy, Mona Vale and Newport.

Executive summary

· To support the Police and Council Rangers in managing alcohol-related antisocial behaviour in road-related public areas, Council has declared several public roads, footpaths and car parks throughout the local government area as Alcohol Free Zones (AFZs).

· Council is able to establish and re-establish AFZs in consultation with the Police and the community, after complying with the requirements set out in the Local Government Act 1993 and the related Ministerial Guildelines on Alcohol Free Zones 2009.

· A review of all existing AFZs across the Northern Beaches has been undertaken to ensure their continued alignment with the requirements for establishing and re-establishing a zone under the Ministerial Guidelines. This review involved analysis of NSW Police and Council data and consultation with Police on current needs (Attachment 1).

· The proposed establishment and re-establishment of 11 AFZs across the Northern Beaches is a reduction from the 19 existing AFZs, and includes 5 AFZs with altered boundaries, reflecting changes across the community in antisocial behaviour related to street drinking.

· On 18 March 2025, Council resolved (062/25) to undertake public consultation on the proposed AFZs included in Attachment 2 and accordingly community engagement was undertaken from 21 March to 27 April 2025 to gain feedback on the proposed AFZs (Attachment 3).

· Community feedback was mixed and ranged from positive support of AFZs as a means to improve the community's ability to safely enjoy public spaces through to opposition generally focussed on AFZs being an over-regulation and infringement on community rights to use public space.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council:

1. Note the outcome of the public exhibition of the proposal to re-establish Alcohol Free Zones and establish new Alcohol Free Zones.

2. Re-establish the Alcohol Free Zones in Brookvale, Church Point, Dee Why, Freshwater, Manly and Narrabeen, as outlined in Attachment 2 of the report for this item, for the period from 1 September 2025 to 31 August 2029.

3. Establish the proposed Alcohol Free Zones in Avalon, Collaroy, Mona Vale and Newport, as outlined in Attachment 2 of the report for this item, for the period from 1 September 2025 to 31 August 2029.

Background

To support the Police and Council Rangers in managing alcohol-related antisocial behaviour, Council has declared several public roads, footpaths and car parks throughout the local government area as Alcohol Free Zones (AFZs).

The management of alcohol consumption in parks, reserves and other open space is governed through Alcohol Prohibited Areas (APAs), which have differing requirements and attributes, and are not covered in this report.

As per the Ministerial Guidelines on Alcohol-Free Zones 2009, the principal objective of an AFZ is to prevent disorderly behaviour caused by the consumption of alcohol in public areas, and to improve public safety.

Once an AFZ is established, the drinking of alcohol is prohibited 7 days a week, 24 hours a day in that zone for a period of up to 4 years.

The proposals to re-establish and establish the AFZs were reported to Council on 18 March 2025, where it was resolved (062/25):

That Council undertake public consultation, in accordance with section 644A of the Local Government Act 1993 and the Ministerial Guidelines on Alcohol Free Zones 2009, in relation to:

1. The proposed establishment of Alcohol-Free Zones in Avalon, Collaroy, Mona Vale, Newport Zone A and Newport Zone B for the period of 1 September 2025 to 31 August 2029 (outlined in Attachment 1 to this report).

2. The proposed re-establishment of the Alcohol-Free Zones in Brookvale, Church Point, Dee Why, Freshwater, Manly and Narrabeen for the period of 1 September 2025 to 31 August 2029 (outlined in Attachment 1 to this report).

Discussion

Analysis of submissions for the establishment of Alcohol Free Zones

The feedback collected during consultation indicated a mixed response, with individual community member experiences and expectations in the same AFZs differing. Some respondents identified feeling significant impacts of alcohol-related antisocial behaviour in the proposed areas. Other respondents reported no awareness of alcohol-related antisocial behaviour in the same proposed zones.

Of the 313 comments received across 193 submissions, 52.7% expressed a negative sentiment to the establishment of AFZs. It is noted however that 21.1% of all comments conflated AFZs with restrictions in parks and beaches (APAs) which has skewed the negative sentiment significantly. 37.4% of comments received expressed a positive sentiment. 9.9% of comments were general or neutral in nature.

Respondents to the proposals with positive sentiment indicated an issue with alcohol-related antisocial behaviour in the community (6.1%), considered the proposal supports their safety in the community, and improving the community’s ability to enjoy public spaces.

Respondents with negative sentiment generally indicated that there was insufficient need for an AFZ (14.7%). Some respondents considered the proposal an over-regulation and infringement on community rights to use public space and were averse to having Council impose restrictions on their social activities (21.1%).

Northern Beaches Police Area Command was consulted in the review of the AFZs and advised Council in March 2025 of its support for the proposal to reduce from 19 to 11 AFZs and for the establishment of the proposed AFZs.

Additional advice has also been provided by the Police (Attachment 4) outlining the importance of the proposed AFZs to assist Police in preventing violence and antisocial behaviour in these identified public places, also noting anecdotal experience supporting the preventive and early intervention role it can play. It is noted that related malicious damage, offensive noise, street urination, littering and obstruction of traffic are often the basis of public concerns. Police also noted that AFZs offer some protection to vulnerable community members who fear being victimised and the wider but silent community. Police advice provided against individual AFZs is included in the analysis for each proposed AFZ.

Overall, each of the proposed AFZs received a small amount of feedback which was mostly general in nature and not site-specific.

Analysis of submissions for each proposed Alcohol Free Zone

· Avalon AFZ (Establishment)

Of the 19 submissions received that related directly to Avalon, 13 expressed a negative sentiment and 6 expressed positive sentiment for the establishment of the AFZ in this area.

Positive sentiments related to ongoing alcohol-related antisocial behaviour in the area (2), the impact of this behaviour on other community members including young children and seniors (2).

Negative sentiments related to AFZs as an over-regulation of the community (6) and observations that the zone is not needed (5). Two submissions requested the AFZ be extended beyond the proposed boundaries. One submission conflated their feedback with alcohol restrictions on beaches, which is not the subject of this report.

In response to the higher level of negative sentiment in the community feedback, Police advised that Avalon has seen a low number of recorded police interventions. Considering decreased enforcement action over the past 3 years, the AFZ exhibited was reduced significantly in size from the existing AFZ boundaries to focus only on those areas experiencing ongoing issues with street drinking. As community comments to re-establish this specific AFZ are balanced, excluding comments on over-regulation, it is recommended to establish the Avalon AFZ.

· Brookvale AFZ (Re-establishment)

Of the 9 submissions received that related directly to Brookvale, 2 expressed negative sentiment and 7 expressed positive sentiment for the establishment of the AFZ in this area.

Positive sentiments related to a desire for bus stops to be safe places which are alcohol free (2). This issue was identified as a community concern in the development of the Community Safety Plan and safety remains an ongoing issue at major public transport hubs. Negative sentiments related to a perceived lack of need (1).

Police advice in their initial assessment provided to the Council meeting in March 2025 emphasised that the Brookvale AFZ should remain due to the high number of incidents reported at that location. Based on Police advice and the supporting comments received, it is recommended to re-establish the Brookvale AFZ.

· Church Point AFZ (Re-establishment)

Of the 8 submissions received that related directly to Church Point, 3 expressed negative sentiment and one expressed positive sentiment for the establishment of the AFZ in this area. The remaining 4 submissions were neutral or general in nature.

Positive sentiments related to ongoing drinking in road-related areas in the proposed AFZ (1) and the impact of this behaviour on other community members (1). Negative sentiments related to the area being used as a community hub for socialising (2).

One submission conflated their general feedback with alcohol restrictions in parks, which is not the subject of this report.

Police have received a low number of reports regarding street drinking related incidents at this location. Negative feedback, although low, outweighs the positive for this location. However, Thomas Stephen Reserve and the Boardwalk areas have been the subject of complaints to Council over the past 3 years regarding outdoor drinking and alcohol-related antisocial behaviour. Maintaining the AFZ adjacent to the 24-hour Alcohol Prohibited Area in Thomas Stephen Reserve may assist regulation of that area and support enforcement. For this reason, it is recommended that the Church Point AFZ be re-established.

· Collaroy AFZ (Establishment)

Of the 9 submissions received that related directly to Collaroy, 5 expressed a negative sentiment and 4 expressed positive sentiment for the establishment of the AFZ in this area.

Positive sentiments related to ongoing alcohol-related antisocial behaviour near the bus stop and its impact on bus drivers (1). Safety at public transport hubs was identified as a community concern in the development of the Community Safety Plan and remains an ongoing issue.

Negative sentiments related to the area being used as a social hub (1) and the perception of over-regulation (2). One submission conflated their negative feedback with alcohol restrictions in parks and beaches, which is not the subject of this report.

Based on the Police data indicating ongoing incidents around this concentration of licensed premises, and as it includes a transport hub, it is recommended that the Collaroy AFZ be established.

· Dee Why AFZ (Re-establishment)

Of the 33 submissions received that related directly to Dee Why, 21 expressed a negative sentiment, 11 expressed positive sentiment for the establishment of the AFZ in this area. and one comment was general in nature.

Positive sentiments related to ongoing alcohol-related antisocial behaviour in the area (6). Negative sentiments related to the perception of over-regulation (10) and that the AFZ is not needed (8).

Ten comments were conflated with Alcohol Prohibited Areas (APAs), with 7 of those contributing to negative sentiment. The importance of enforcement was raised in 5 submissions.

In response to the higher level of negative sentiment in the community feedback, Police advised that this area is one of the busier locations for Police interventions with large concentrations of licensed premises on the eastern and western boundaries and many areas for street drinking in between. There were nearly 70 incidents recorded in that area in the last financial year, indicating a need for Council to maintain this AFZ. Based on this advice, it is recommended to re-establish the Dee Why AFZ.

· Freshwater AFZ (Re-establishment)

Of the 19 submissions received that related directly to Freshwater, 15 expressed a negative sentiment and 2 expressed positive sentiment for the establishment of the AFZ in this area. Two comments were general in nature.

Positive sentiments were not supported with explanatory comments. One positive comment requested the re-establishment of Freshwater B area which is not supported due to lack of supporting data from the Police.

Negative sentiments related to a perception of over-regulation (7), the area being used as a community hub (4), and the AFZ not being needed (6). Four negative submissions conflated the AFZ with the ability to drink in parks and beaches, with most of the negative feedback centred around the desire to have the freedom to drink in public spaces and the importance of community social hubs. Note that this is not the subject of this report.

In response to the higher level of negative sentiment in the community feedback, Police advised that this area has seen a low number of police interventions, though there were some ongoing community frustrations over summer around alcohol-related behaviour.

Police data indicate that public use of some sectors of the existing AFZ have been compromised by street drinkers over the past 3 years, particularly the area surrounding Freshwater Reserve. As community comments to re-establish this specific AFZ are balanced, excluding comments on over-regulation, it is recommended to re-establish the Freshwater AFZ.

· Manly AFZ (Re-establishment)

Of the 96 submissions received that related directly to Manly, 46 expressed a negative sentiment and 44 expressed positive sentiment for the establishment of the AFZ in this area. The other 6 comments were general in nature.

Positive sentiments related to ongoing alcohol-related antisocial behaviour in the area (18) and the area being used as a community hub (2).

Negative sentiments related to a perception of over-regulation (16), that the AFZ is not needed (12), the area being used as a community hub (8) and concern for the impact on local business (3). Thirty-eight submissions (20 positive and 18 negative) conflated their comments with the restriction of drinking in parks, reserves and beaches, which is not the subject of this report.

Manly continues to experience high levels of street drinking and alcohol-related antisocial behaviour throughout the AFZ. Police and Council collaborate on the management of this area, with joint enforcement of the hot spot East and West Esplanade areas. Due to the high level of alcohol-related antisocial behaviour in this location, and the level of ongoing community concern, it is recommended to re-establish the Manly AFZ.

· Mona Vale AFZ (Establishment)

Of the 13 submissions received that related directly to Mona Vale, 9 expressed a negative sentiment and 3 expressed positive sentiment for the establishment of the AFZ in this area. One comment was general in nature.

Positive sentiments were not supported with relevant explanatory comments. Negative sentiments related to the perception of over-regulation (4) and concerns for the impact on outdoor dining (2). Two submissions conflated their negative feedback with alcohol restrictions in parks and beaches.

Even though there were higher levels of negative sentiment in the community feedback, Police advised there were 40 incidents over the last financial year and noted that it would be unwise to remove this AFZ due to the concentration of licensed premises. Based on this advice, it is recommended to establish the Mona Vale AFZ.

· Narrabeen AFZ (Re-establishment)

Of the 12 submissions received that related directly to Narrabeen, 3 expressed a negative sentiment and 9 expressed positive sentiment for the establishment of the AFZ in this area.

Positive sentiments related to ongoing alcohol-related antisocial behaviour in the area (4) including reference to the impact on young children (3). One submission noted that an AFZ would allow residents to feel safer. Negative sentiments were not supported with relevant explanatory comments.

Of the general comments received, 3 referred to groups of people regularly consuming alcohol in public spaces in the Narrabeen area, with mixed opinion on whether this should be permitted. Two submissions conflated their feedback with alcohol restrictions in parks and beaches (one negative, one positive).

Although there has been decreased Police enforcement action required over the last 3 years, there continue to be regular incidents in this small area. With community support noted, the re-establishment of the Narrabeen AFZ is recommended.

· Newport A AFZ (Establishment)

Of the 24 submissions received that related directly to Newport A, 12 expressed a negative sentiment and 9 expressed positive sentiment for the establishment of the AFZ in this area. Three comments were general in nature.

Positive sentiments related to ongoing alcohol-related antisocial behaviour in the area (1). One submission supported the reduction in the AFZ size.

Negative sentiments related to the perception of over-regulation (8) and that the AFZ is not needed (5). One submission conflated their negative feedback with alcohol restrictions on beaches, which is not the subject of this report.

There was reference to outdoor dining in Robertson and Barrenjoey Roads with 5 comments questioning whether the AFZ would impact outdoor dining, 6 expressing their enjoyment of the social outdoor atmosphere that outdoor dining zones provide in this area, and 2 noting the impact of patrons leaving this area on local residents. It is noted that AFZs do not impact outdoor dining zones and that while the existing AFZ includes Robertson Road, it is not included in the AFZ currently being proposed.

Based on the large number of comments that are related to outdoor dining zones, the positive community sentiment outweighs the negative sentiment. As such, it is recommended to establish the Newport A AFZ.

· Newport B AFZ (Establishment)

Of the 18 submissions received that related directly to Newport B AFZ, 9 expressed a negative sentiment and 7 expressed positive sentiment for the establishment of the AFZ in this area. Two comments were general in nature.

Positive sentiments related to ongoing alcohol-related antisocial behaviour in the area (3).

Negative sentiments related to the perception of over-regulation (5), that the AFZ is not needed (3), and concern for maintaining business and a vibrant nighttime economy (3). Two submissions conflated their feedback with alcohol restrictions in parks and beaches (one negative, one positive), which is not the subject of this report.

Police advised that whilst the community sentiment appeared balanced, as this area adjoins the concentration of licensed premises in that area, they would encourage Council to maintain that area as an AFZ. Based on this advice, it is recommended to establish the Newport B AFZ.

Consultation

Section 644A of the Local Government Act 1993 and the Ministerial Guidelines on Alcohol Free Zones 2009 require Council to undertake a specific public consultation process to re-establish and establish AFZs. In line with those requirements, Council invited submissions for the re-establishment and establishment of the proposed AFZs, through the following avenues:

· forwarded a copy of the proposal to the Northern Beaches Police Area Commander

· forwarded correspondence to liquor licensees of premises that border on, adjoin, or are adjacent to the proposed AFZ

· forwarded correspondence to the NSW Aboriginal Education Consultative Group (AECG) and Aboriginal Heritage Office.

In addition to these requirements, Council also:

· erected signage in the proposed locations inviting submissions from the community

· distributed advice via Council’s Have Your Say engagement newsletters

· notified key stakeholders.

A detailed Community Engagement Report (Attachment 3) outlines the findings of the public consultation process.

In addition, extensive community engagement was undertaken in 2020 on the development of the Northern Beaches Community Safety Plan and Better Together Social Sustainability Strategy 2040, with high levels of concerns expressed about alcohol-related antisocial behaviour in public spaces and the impact of that behaviour on personal safety when walking and using public transport at night.

Timing

The existing AFZs begin to expire on 31 August 2025. Council may establish and re-establish AFZs for a period of up to 4 years. It is proposed that the proposed AFZs be established and re-established (as relevant) for the period 1 September 2025 to 31 August 2029.

Financial Considerations

$41,548 is included in the 2025/26 budget to facilitate production and installation of signage. This will cover the proposed AFZs covered in this report.

Governance and Risk Considerations

Sections 660, 644, 644A, 644B, 644C, 646 of the Local Government Act 1993 and the Ministerial Guidelines on Alcohol Free Zones 2009 have been followed in establishing the Alcohol Free Zones detailed in this report.

Community safety is identified as a strategic risk to the Northern Beaches. Council’s Community Safety Plan proposes actions that address identified community safety and crime prevention priorities of the community, mitigating the strategic risks posed.

Environmental Considerations

The subject of this report has no adverse environmental implications for Council.

Social Considerations

The recommendations in this report will have positive social outcomes for the community through addressing identified alcohol-related crime and safety issues across the Northern Beaches.

Council is committed to ensuring that open spaces are high quality, safe, accessible and facilitate the healthy and active lifestyle that is important to the Northern Beaches community. To improve public safety AFZs have been established on public roads, footpaths, and public car parks to reduce disruptive and anti-social behaviour as well as alcohol-related crime in public places.

Consultation undertaken in developing the Northern Beaches Community Safety Plan and Better Together Social Sustainability Strategy 2040 indicated that the Northern Beaches community has a high level of concern about alcohol-related antisocial behaviour in open spaces and the impact of that behaviour on personal safety when walking and using public transport at night. The community identified a reduction in alcohol-related behaviour in open spaces as a means of achieving increased safety and better use of shared spaces. The ability to enforce AFZs is a valuable tool in managing alcohol-related antisocial behaviour in the community.

Link to Strategy

This report relates to the Community Strategic Plan Outcome and Goal:

· Community and belonging - Goal 8 Our community feels safe and supported.

This report relates to the Better Together Social Sustainability Strategy 2040 outcomes of:

· Safe People

· Safe Places

This report relates to the Community Safety Plan 2021-2026 action:

· Conduct a full review of alcohol restricted zoning.

Reporting team

Community, Arts & Culture

TRIM file ref

2025/204513

Attachments

⇨1 Summary of Assessments - Alcohol Free Zone Review (Included In Attachments Booklet)

⇨2 Boundaries of proposed Alcohol Free Zones 2025 (Included In Attachments Booklet)

⇨3 Community Engagement Report - Review of Alcohol Free Zones 2025 (Included In Attachments Booklet)

⇨4 Correspondence from Northern Beaches Police Area Commander (Included In Attachments Booklet)

Item 10.2 Northern Beaches Council MEETING - 15 July 2025

ITEM 10.2

Review of Social Sustainability Policy

NOTE: This item was listed on the agenda for the 18 March 2025 Council meeting, but was deferred by Council.

Purpose

The purpose of this report is to seek adoption of the Social Sustainability Policy.

Executive Summary

· Council’s Policy Framework (Framework) outlines the strategic principles for certain corporate documents, including Council policies.

· Council is progressively reviewing all corporate documents covered by the Framework.

· The Social Sustainability Policy NB-P-17 (the Policy) has been reviewed and is recommended to be adopted with minor changes to maintain currency.

· The Policy delivers on several Community Strategic Plan (CSP) outcomes, goals and strategies and the recent review and adoption of the CSP has been considered in this review.

· The Policy was presented to Council on 18 March 2025, where Council resolved to defer the Policy for a briefing following the adoption of the Community Strategic Plan.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council adopt the Social Sustainability Policy.

Background

In 2021 Council adopted the Social Sustainability Policy NB-P-17 (Policy) to provide the overarching framework for Council and the community to work together to maximise the quality and effectiveness of community development services and contribute to achieving the vision in the Community Strategic Plan (CSP).

This Policy provides direction and guidance for operational and strategic planning through the Better Together 2040 Social Sustainability Strategy, the associated Community Wellbeing Framework and targeted action plans which have been developed over the past 4 years. It provides direction for community development and capacity building activities related to further building a safe, diverse, inclusive and connected Northern Beaches.

The amended Policy was presented to Council on 18 March 2025, where Council resolved (058/25):

That Council defer the Social Sustainability Policy to a briefing once the Community Strategic Plan is adopted.

A briefing paper was distributed to Councillors following the adoption of the Community Strategic Plan 2040 on 17 June 2025. The Policy is resubmitted to Council for its consideration.

Discussion

Following a scheduled review of the Policy it was found to be operating effectively and remains consistent with Council’s Policy Framework (Framework). Some minor administrative changes are proposed to the Policy (Attachment 1) which are highlighted for ease of reference. The changes update references to documents and the titles of NSW Government departments to maintain currency. These do not alter the policy position.

Council recently reviewed and updated the CSP to maintain the currency of the outcomes and goals in alignment with the community’s vision for the Northern Beaches. Through that process minor amendments were made to goals and strategies in the Community and Belonging Outcome which strengthens the commitment to safety, diversity, inclusion and connection for our community. These minor amendments were considered in this review of the Social Sustainability Policy and the only amendment required in the Policy is the inclusion of ‘diverse’ in the Policy, as per the adopted CSP.

Consultation

While Council’s Policy Framework encourages involvement by the community in developing and reviewing its policies, it acknowledges that consultation may not be required in all circumstances, such as where a policy is to be re re-adopted or is consistent with a model policy provided by the NSW Government.

Noting the administrative amendments proposed to the Social Sustainability Policy are minimal, a formal 28-day exhibition process is not considered necessary to support Council in its consideration of the readoption of this policy. The Policy underwent public exhibition in 2021 and recent CSP consultation feedback relating to the relevant outcomes has been taken into consideration.

Financial Considerations

The recommendations of this report pose no financial impact on Council.

Governance and Risk Considerations

The recommendations of this report are in line with Council’s Policy Framework. The Framework provides for an improved governance outcome for the management of Council policies.

Environmental Considerations

The subject of this report has no adverse environmental implications for Council.

Social Considerations

This Policy provides foundational principles and strategic guidance for the Better Together 2040 Social Sustainability Strategy and community development and services activities. The recommendations in this report will have positive social outcomes for the community as the Policy provides direction for capacity building, education, recognition and advocacy which will continue to build a safe, diverse, inclusive and connected Northern Beaches.

Link to Strategy

This report relates to the Community Strategic Plan Outcomes and Goals:

· Community and belonging - Goal 8 Our community feels safe and supported.

· Community and belonging - Goal 9 Our community is inclusive and connected.

· Good governance and participation - Goal 19 Our Council is transparent and trusted to make decisions that reflect the values of the community.

· Good governance and participation - Goal 20 Our Council is proactive, and efficiently and effectively responds to, and delivers on, the evolving needs of the community.

Reporting team	Community, Arts & Culture
TRIM file ref	2025/382649
Attachments	⇨1 Draft Social Sustainability Policy - NB-P-17 (Included In Attachments Booklet)

Item 11.1 Northern Beaches Council MEETING - 15 July 2025

11.0 Environment and Open Space Division Reports

ITEM 11.1

Outcome of Public Exhibition - Tree Management Policy

NOTE: This item was listed on the agenda for the 17 June 2025 Council meeting, but was deferred by Council.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this report is to present the outcome of the public exhibition of the draft Tree Management Policy and seek its adoption.

Executive summary

· At its meeting of 18 February 2025, Council resolved to place the draft Tree Management Policy (Policy) on public exhibition.

· The draft Policy was publicly exhibited for community feedback from 24 February 2025 to 30 March 2025.

· Following the public exhibition period, a review was undertaken of the 130 submissions received; the findings are set out in the Community Engagement Report (Attachment 1) and summarised in this report.

· The majority of submissions received were very supportive or somewhat supportive of the draft Policy with a number suggesting changes.

· Some respondents who were not supportive indicated the draft Policy should be strengthened.

· Based on the review of the feedback received, minor amendments are proposed to the draft Policy as outlined in this report and a final draft Policy (Attachment 2) is now presented for adoption.

· The final draft Tree Management Policy is consistent with Council’s Tree Canopy Plan, which was adopted in 2023.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council:

1. Adopt the Tree Management Policy at Attachment 2.

2. Revoke the following policies:

a. Tree Management Policy - T69 (Attachment 3)

b. Tree Preservation Order Policy - ENV PL 440 (Attachment 4)

c. Street Tree Planting Policy - PL 416 (Attachment 5)

d. Urban Forest Policy - PL 800 (Attachment 6)

e. Significant Tree Policy - No 118 (Attachment 7).

Background

Five tree related policies from the former councils remain in force, and there is a need to harmonise these policies to reflect a common approach to managing trees across the Northern Beaches local government area (LGA).

Following a policy review, a draft Tree Management Policy (Policy) was prepared which reflects the intent of the current tree related policies, is consistent with Council’s Tree Canopy Plan (TCP) and strengthens tree assessment and protection requirements. The key objectives of the draft Policy are to:

· recognise the significant benefit provided by trees to our local community in terms of air quality, soil protection, water quality and quantity, carbon sequestration, energy conservation, noise reduction, urban cooling, and habitat for local wildlife

· increase tree cover by enhancing and promoting protection, increasing new or replacement planting, and improving rates of retention and long-term survival where trees are healthy and do not pose unacceptable risks to safety

· enhance canopy connectivity within and between natural areas (such as bushland, parks, and road reserves) and urban areas (including residential and commercial property) through the preservation of existing significant and old growth canopy trees, and the planting of trees and other vegetation.

The draft Policy was presented to Council at its meeting of 18 February 2025. Council subsequently resolved (033/25) to place the draft Policy on public exhibition and the outcome reported to Council.

Discussion

In response to Resolution 033/25 the draft Policy was placed on public exhibition from 24 February 2025 to 30 March 2025. The majority of submissions received were very supportive or somewhat supportive of the draft Policy. Some respondents who were not supportive indicated the draft Policy should be strengthened.

Many of the comments and suggestions received for the draft Policy are covered by other Council policies, plans and strategies including the Community Engagement Policy and Strategy, Compliance and Enforcement Policy and Guidelines, Enterprise Risk and Opportunity Management Policy and the TCP. The draft Policy will operate in accordance with relevant Council policies, plans and strategies and any relevant legislation, guidelines or Australian standards.

Based on the review of the submissions and comments received, minor amendments are proposed to the draft Policy including:

· additional references and related documents have been added for completeness

· definitions have been updated including for a healthy tree

· a reference to rehabilitation added.

Further details on key themes raised through submissions and Council staff responses are summarised in the following section.

A final draft Policy (Attachment 2) has now been prepared for Council’s consideration.

Consultation

Public exhibition of the draft Policy and the opportunity to provide feedback was promoted via Council’s e-mail newsletter, stakeholder emails and a Your Say online project page. Feedback was collected through an online form and via email. During the public exhibition period 130 submissions, many with comments, were received. Following a review of submissions, the key themes arising and staff responses are summarised in Table 1 below.

Table 1. Consolidated summary of key themes raised through submissions and staff responses

Theme	Issues, suggestions, requests and other considerations raised	Responses
Draft Policy and processes should be strengthened:	Draft Policy wording: Considered too vague and needs to be strengthened and/or, remove subjective words/terms. Definitions and further information need to be provided for stakeholders, tree retention measures, reasonable justification and what constitutes healthy trees.	The draft Policy will be implemented in accordance with relevant legislation, guidelines, Australian standards, and Council’s policies, plans and strategies. The draft Policy does not and is not required to replicate existing legislation, guidelines and the like. Additional references have been added to the draft Policy for completeness. Tree retention measures are undertaken in accordance with Council’s risk framework and Enterprise Risk and Opportunity Management Policy. The framework will be reviewed to consider if it can be strengthened for trees. A definition of a healthy tree has been added to the draft Policy. Stakeholders are defined for each engagement project in accordance with Council’s Community Engagement Policy and Strategy.
Draft Policy and processes should be strengthened:	Comments on draft Policy specifics: Draft Policy should specify that Council will investigate and pursue the rehabilitation of a tree and that the removal of a tree will be a last resort. Needs to allow for flexibility and consider the needs of the surrounding area and wildlife. Draft Policy should detail best practice for tree management on private land.	The draft Policy provides principles for tree management. The retention of trees and the improvement of the tree canopy is a key principle of the draft Policy and the TCP. Tree rehabilitation is considered during assessments and the draft Policy has been amended to clarify this. Where required the impacts on ‘surrounding areas’ and wildlife are considered in tree management. No change proposed to the draft Policy. Information regarding ‘best practice’ for managing trees on private land can be found on Council’s website.
Tree Management	Property owners and individuals should not be restricted on private land particularly regarding removal of non-native trees. Landowners should be able to prune imposing trees from neighbouring land as they see fit. The draft Policy does not go far enough to protect trees on private land. Permits should be required for trees 3m and above, not 5m and above. Existing trees should not be allowed to be removed and should be incorporated into new developments. Process to remove trees for development should be easier.	Management of trees on private land is governed by relevant legislation particularly the State Environmental Planning Policy (Biodiversity and Conservation) 2021 NSW (SEPP) and relevant Development Control Plans. No change proposed to the draft Policy. An Exempt Species list is available on Council’s website – the tree species listed are suitable for removal without consent unless identified as a heritage item or within a heritage area. No change proposed to the draft Policy.
	Removal and/or pruning of trees on Council land: If a tree is dangerous, damaging private or public property or creating mess it should be easy to apply for it to be removed or pruned. Improved notification to the community when a tree on Council land is to be removed. Trees should be allowed to be pruned to improve views / trees need to be protected from pruning for improved views.	Trees are assessed according to relevant legislation, Council policies, and the Enterprise Risk and Opportunity Management Policy. Tree removal is generally not supported for normal leaf, flower, or fruit drop. The draft Policy includes community notification for tree management, except for high-risk trees or emergencies. Public trees are protected and not pruned for private views, but views are considered when planting on Council land. No change proposed to the draft Policy.
	Some submissions commented on the Iconic Tree Register.	The establishment of an Iconic Tree Register is a commitment in the TCP and is planned to be launched on Council’s website in late 2025. Criteria and definitions will be included for the Register. No change proposed to the draft Policy.
Compliance Management	There should be stronger enforcement and penalties for tree vandalism.	Vandalism and unauthorised tree removal or pruning is managed in accordance with Council’s Compliance and Enforcement Policy 2024 and relevant legislation. The draft Policy now includes a reference to Council’s Compliance and Enforcement Guidelines 2018.
	Council’s risk policy and framework should be made publicly available and be included as part of the draft Policy.	Council’s Enterprise Risk and Opportunity Management Policy is available on Council’s website and added to the list of references in the draft Policy. The framework is an internal document.
	Concerns of the validity of privately contracted arborist reports. Concerns over conflicting assessments between Council and private arborist assessments	Council accepts and reviews reports from arborists registered and qualified at level 5 or above. No change proposed to the draft Policy.
	How will Council’s compliance with the draft Policy and Tree Canopy Plan be measured, will there be a quota that needs to be met and what kind of technology and mapping will be used? Insufficient number of Rangers to police public compliance with draft Policy. Need a designated Ranger to assess 10:50 clearing.	The TCP includes actions like planting 5,000 trees annually in priority areas and conducting LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) surveys every 4 years to assess tree height, density, and canopy cover. Council’s Rangers manage compliance matters, including tree-related issues, with resources allocated based on operational needs and annual budget. No change proposed to the draft Policy.
	Permits for work on private trees: Exhibited to allow for public review, input & monitoring	The permit process requires among other things that a copy of the permit be displayed on a front fence, and a photo provided as evidence of replanting. No change proposed to draft Policy.
Tree selection and replanting	Importance of non-native trees. Feedback is critical of historic and current tree selection on Council land (Coastal Banksias should not be planted on nature strips as they cause damage, do not plant gum trees, do not plant Camphor Laurels along creeks).	The TCP outlines key principles, including providing a diverse range of species, prioritising local native species where possible (non-native trees are included). Due diligence ensures appropriate species are selected for each location. No change proposed to the draft Policy.
	Ensure that Council land is fully utilised, increasing trees on all reserves and nature strips.	The TCP aims to among other things to integrate nature into the built environment. It includes improving tree canopy and coverage in parks and reserves, with a target of planting at least 5,000 trees annually in priority areas. No change proposed to the draft Policy.
	Clarify how the location and species selection will be managed.	The TCP includes actions like planting 5,000 trees annually in priority areas. These areas include vulnerable, high heat indexed, and low canopy locations such as Brookvale. Species selection will follow the Plan and Council’s approval. No change proposed to the draft Policy.
Environmental and community benefits	Climate Change: Trees are important in combating the urban heat island effect. Tree management must consider increased risks from extreme weather events like storms and bushfires. Pruning should be allowed when trees shade solar panels.	Trees play an important role in moderating urban heat, and the draft Policy recognises their cooling benefits. Climate change is addressed in greater detail in other Council strategies, including the Environment and Climate Change Strategy 2040. Exempt tree works follow relevant legislation, regulations, and Council policies. No change proposed to the draft Policy.
Environmental and community benefits	Native trees are important to support biodiversity and trees of all species and age classes are needed to support local wildlife and habitat and should be protected to ensure the future tree canopy growth. Non-native trees provide essential nesting and roosting for native animals and should be protected.	The benefits provided by trees for habitat and local wildlife is referenced in the objectives of the draft Policy and reflected in Council’s suite of environmental sustainability policies and strategies. No change proposed to draft Policy.
Education, community engagement and advocacy	Education: Educate the community and local businesses that trees are an asset to the community and outline all benefits. Important to communicate to the community regularly and through various methods the importance of trees. Provide a list of recommended trees for small spaces Increased education at local schools so the next generation understand the importance of trees. Greater education regarding weeds, invasive and unsuitable plants.	There are actions in the TCP regarding raising community awareness about trees, involving volunteers and education initiatives. These actions are implemented when funds and resources are available. Recent responses include that: · Council’s website has been updated with new information about removing and pruning trees, a planting guide and a photo registry. · Community planting days are an annual activity undertaken when resources are available. No change proposed to the draft Policy.
	Community engagement: Allow the community to easily provide feedback to Council. Council did not listen to the community regarding the trees on Ruskin Row, Avalon.	Engagement is conducted in accordance with Council’s Community Engagement Policy and Strategy. No change proposed to the draft Policy.
	Advocacy: Council needs to continue to advocate for the 10/50 Vegetation Clearing Code of Practice to be tightened to greater protect trees. LEP needs to be amended to ensure the draft Policy is more actionable	We will continue to advocate for changes to State policies, legislation and plans that align with Council’s objectives for tree management. Tree Management matters have been considered in the development of the Local Strategic Planning Statement 2040 and the draft Northern Beaches Local Environmental Plan and District Control Plan. This is in keeping with the TCP. No change proposed to the draft Policy.

Further information on the details about the public exhibition, analysis of the feedback received, responses to the key themes arising and access to the verbatim responses (redacted) are presented in the Community Engagement Report at Attachment 1.

Timing

Should the final draft Policy be adopted by Council, it will come into immediate effect. Revoked policies will be removed from Council’s website and replaced with the adopted Policy.

Financial Considerations

Adoption of the policy does not have a financial impact to Council. The funds and resources required to manage Council’s obligations for tree management (for example under the Tree Canopy Plan) are considered annually through the preparation of Council’s Delivery Program and operational and capital budgets. Supplementary funding is also sought through grants when opportunities arise.

Governance and Risk Considerations

The final draft Policy has been developed in accordance with Council’s Policy Framework NB-P-01. If adopted, it is proposed the following current policies would be revoked:

· former Manly, Tree Management Policy - T69 (Attachment 3)

· former Warringah, Tree Preservation Order Policy - ENV PL 440 (Attachment 4)

· former Warringah, Street Tree Planting Policy - PL 416 (Attachment 5)

· former Warringah, Urban Forest Policy - PL 800 (Attachment 6)

· former Pittwater, Significant Tree Policy - No 118 (Attachment 7)

Environmental Considerations

The final draft Policy aims to provide improved controls and positive environmental outcomes in keeping with Council’s Tree Canopy Plan.

The final draft Policy recognises trees as green infrastructure and that trees contribute to air quality, prevent soil erosion and assist with improving water quality, carbon sequestration, stormwater retention, energy conservation, noise reduction, urban cooling and provide habitat for wildlife. Implementation would be undertaken in accordance with all relevant environmental and other legislation and Council’s environmental and other policies and directions.

Social Considerations

The final draft Policy supports positive social outcomes through improved protection of trees and improvements to the Northern Beaches tree canopy.

Link to Strategy

This report relates to these Council policies, strategies and plans:

· Community Engagement Policy and Strategy

· Community Strategic Plan 2040

· Compliance and Enforcement Policy and Guidelines

· Enterprise Risk Management Policy

· Environment and Climate Change Strategy 2040

· Local Strategic Planning Statement - Towards 2040

· Policy Framework

· Tree Canopy Plan 2023.

This report also relates to these Community Strategic Plan 2040 Outcomes and Goals:

· Protection of the environment - Goal 1 Our bushland, coast and waterways are protected for their intrinsic value.

· Protection of the environment - Goal 2 Our environment and community are resilient to natural hazards and climate change.

· Environmental sustainability - Goal 6 Our Council leads by example in environmental sustainability and resilience.

· Good governance and participation - Goal 19 Our Council is transparent and trusted to make decisions that reflect the values of the community.

Reporting team

Parks & Open Space

TRIM file ref

2025/421905

Attachments

⇨1 Community Engagement Report - Draft Tree Management Policy (Included In Attachments Booklet)

⇨2 Final Draft Tree Management Policy (Included In Attachments Booklet)

⇨3 Former Manly Tree Management Policy - T69 (Included In Attachments Booklet)

⇨4 Former Warringah Tree Preservation Order Policy - ENV PL 440 (Included In Attachments Booklet)

⇨5 Former Warringah Street Tree Planting Policy - PL 416 (Included In Attachments Booklet)

⇨6 Former Warringah Urban Forest Policy - PL 800 (Included In Attachments Booklet)

⇨7 Former Pittwater Significant Tree Policy - No 118 (Included In Attachments Booklet)

Item 14.1 Northern Beaches Council MEETING - 15 July 2025

14.0 Notices of Motion

ITEM 14.1

Notice of Motion No 26/2025 - Issues with Building Information Certificates and Gaming of Development Applications

COUNCILLOR GLANVILLE SUBMITTED THE FOLLOWING MOTION:

MOTION

That Council:

1. Note with concern the article in the Sydney Morning Herald titled “Fury as Sydneysiders build mansions and ‘ask forgiveness later’”, published on 10 June 2025.

2. Prepare a submission, within 4 months, to the NSW Minister for Planning, Minister for Building, Building Commissioner, and Local Government NSW, advocating on the following:

a. Challenges and concerns experienced in administering Building Information Certificates (BICs).

b. Examples of situations where BIC approvals are being sought in circumstances which the legislation did not originally envisage.

c. Suggestions for altering the scope of works or circumstances where a BIC can be sought, to avoid misuse and enforce a strong culture of compliance.

d. Concerns about the interaction between the private certification scheme and use of BICs.

e. Suggestions for strengthening the penalties for undertaking unauthorised development.

f. Any other suggestions for improving the BIC framework.

BACKGROUND FROM COUNCILLOR GLANVILLE

Under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the correct process by which development is meant to be carried out lawfully, is that prior to any works commencing, the owner or developer applies for and obtains development approval. Works should commence after obtaining a construction certificate, and be carried out in accordance with the consent, and finally an occupation certificate obtained prior to occupation of the new premises. A relatively similar but streamlined process exists for building which can be undertaken via a Complying Development Certificate (CDC).

Building Information Certificates (BICs) were initially introduced to provide a way for purchasers of properties to resolve any unauthorised works and provide comfort to their mortgage lenders that Council would not demolish the building (undermining the bank’s security).

Since then, their use has evolved and expanded. BICs are now sought in a range of circumstances. This may include relatively minor or accidental non-compliances (such as identifying in a building after construction that a roof has been built to a slightly incorrect Reduced Level, but which has no real impact on neighbouring properties). This can extend through to more calculated attempts to game the planning system, by illegally carrying out works which do not comply with a consent (or for which consent was never sought) in order to regularise those works after the fact, in circumstances where consent would never have been given in the first place due to the built structure’s impacts on neighbours or non-compliance with the Council’s Local Environmental Plan or Development Control Plan rules.

Once works have been carried out, there is a high burden on councils to take enforcement action. While it can issue (for example) orders requiring demolition of the unauthorised or non-compliant works, these orders can be (and regularly are) appealed to the Land and Environment Court. This can be a very costly exercise for councils in a no costs jurisdiction, particularly as the Court is often reluctant to order that a building which is structurally sound be demolished (even in the absence of prior approval).

Taking other forms of enforcement action (for example penalty notices, criminal prosecutions, civil injunctions) can also be an expensive exercise for Councils. It must expend resources and often engage external experts to document the non-compliant works. For criminal enforcement, this requires having evidence beyond reasonable doubt. This can be challenging, particularly where the owner has a combination of works both lawful and unlawful which have been undertaken, legacy structures that have been modified by past owners, multiple consents (such as a combination of CDCs and Development Applications [DAs] and modifications), and Council lacking records of historic consents (former Warringah and former Manly Councils are both understood to have had fires in their historic DA records).

The availability of BICs is also often relied upon by lax certifiers to avoid taking any real action during works in response to non-compliant works: where a non-compliance is identified mid-build, rather than issuing directions for the works to be redone, some certifiers simply suggest obtaining a BIC. This does nothing to discourage builders or developers from lax attitudes towards compliance (or intentional non-compliance).

TRIM file ref	2025/424120
Attachments	Nil

Item 14.3 Northern Beaches Council MEETING - 15 July 2025

ITEM 14.3

Notice of Motion No 28/2025 - International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN) – Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons and Endorsement of the Cities Appeal

COUNCILLOR HRNJAK SUBMITTED THE FOLLOWING MOTION:

MOTION

That Council:

1. Note the upcoming 80th anniversary of the detonation of atomic bombs over the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki on 6 and 9 August 1945, respectively.

2. Commit to flying the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN) flag (a nuclear weapon trapped in the peace symbol) at the Dee Why Civic Centre on significant days including:

a. 6 August 2025 – 80^th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima (1945)

b. 9 August 2025 – 80^th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Nagasaki (1945)

c. 21 September 2025 – International Day of Peace

d. 26 September 2025 – International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons (ongoing)

3. Endorse the Cities Appeal, a project of the Nobel Peace Prize-winning ICAN along with 50 other Australian councils.

4. Endorse the following statement: “Our local government area is deeply concerned about the grave threat that nuclear weapons pose to communities throughout the world. We firmly believe that our residents have the right to live in a world free from this threat. Any use of nuclear weapons, whether deliberate or accidental, would have catastrophic, far-reaching and long-lasting consequences for people and the environment. Therefore, we warmly welcome the adoption of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons by the United Nations in 2017, and we call on our national government to sign and ratify it without delay.”

5. Note that Dr Sophie Scamps MP, Member for Mackellar, Zali Steggall OAM MP, Member for Warringah and Jacqui Scruby MP, Member for Pittwater are signatories of the ICAN Parliamentary Pledge and that our local Federal MPs signed an open letter in 2022 advocating for nuclear non-proliferation and Australia’s ratification of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.

6. Request that the Chief Executive Officer write to our local Federal Members, Dr Sophie Scamps MP and Zali Steggall OAM MP, and the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon Penny Wong, to advise them of this motion.

7. Issue a media release announcing Council’s endorsement of the ICAN Cities Appeal.

BACKGROUND FROM COUNCILLOR HRNJAK

As a Council, we acknowledge the devastation caused as a result of the detonations of the bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, express our sadness about the loss of life, and extend our sympathy to the survivors who lived with permanent damage and injury following the detonations.

Between the 2 atomic bombs dropped on Japan, between 150,000 and 246,000 people were killed. The number of wounded and those who would go on to suffer from long-term radiation sickness is incalculable.

In the event of a nuclear detonation, local governments are often the first to respond, have multiple responsibilities for coordination in the immediate and long-term aftermath, and for these reasons, this issue is directly relevant to local government.

Nuclear weapons cause massive environmental destruction and their effects on human and animal health, by causing genetic mutations, last for generations. These effects include cancer and severe birth defects. There is ample scientific research that confirms the ongoing detriment caused by nuclear weapons.

The International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN), established in Australia in 2007, was awarded the 2017 Nobel Peace Prize for its ground-breaking efforts to achieve a global treaty for the prohibition of nuclear weapons.

On 7 July 2017, 122 nations voted to adopt the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (the Treaty).

At this time the Treaty has been signed by 94 nations and ratified by 70 nations. After being ratified by 50 nations, it entered into force on 22 January 2021.

While the Australian Government supports the goal of a world free of nuclear weapons, it has not yet signed or ratified the Treaty.

ICAN has launched the Cities Appeal, a campaign for towns and cities to voice their concern for the consequences of nuclear weapons and endorse the Treaty.

So far the following Australian councils have passed motions endorsing the ICAN Cities Appeal: Adelaide, SA; Augusta Margaret River, WA; Bassendean, WA; Ballina Shire, NSW; Bayside, NSW; Bayside, VIC;, Benalla, VIC; Blue Mountains, NSW; Brimbank, VIC; Brisbane, QLD; Byron Shire, NSW; Canberra, ACT; Cockburn, WA; Darebin, VIC; Fremantle, WA; Georges River, NSW; Hobart, TAS; Hume, VIC; Inner West, NSW; Kiama, NSW; Lismore, NSW; Macedon Ranges Shire, VIC; Maribyrnong, VIC; Melbourne, VIC; Moreland, VIC; Mount Barker, SA; Mount Isa City, QLD; Newcastle, NSW; Port Adelaide Enfield, SA; Port Augusta, SA; Port Phillip, VIC; Prospect, SA; Queanbeyan-Palerang, NSW; Randwick, NSW; Ryde, NSW; Shellharbour, NSW; Shoalhaven, NSW; Sydney, NSW; Victor Harbour, SA; Waverley, NSW; West Arnhem, NT; West Torrens, SA: Wollongong, NSW; Yarra Ranges, VIC; and Yarra, VIC.

In 2020, the Australian Local Government Association National General Assembly called on the then Coalition Federal Government to ratify the treaty. The Australian Labor Party committed to sign the treaty prior to its election in 2022, yet 3 years later, there has still been no action.

TRIM file ref	2025/455143
Attachments	Nil

Item 14.6 Northern Beaches Council MEETING - 15 July 2025

ITEM 14.6

Notice of Motion No 31/2025 - Review of Plastic Use in Council Infrastructure

COUNCILLOR KORZY SUBMITTED THE FOLLOWING MOTION:

MOTION

That Council:

1. Undertake a high-level desktop review of its use of plastics in infrastructure to identify sources of potential plastic pollution, including microplastic shedding.

2. The review should identify:

a. all types of Council infrastructure containing significant amounts of plastic including: boardwalks; bollards; building materials (including external cladding); fences; furniture; gates; geotextile sandbags; plastic sleeves on wharf posts; roads; signs; speed bumps; stormwater infrastructure; but excepting synthetic turf

b. types of sites where these items are used

c. types of plastics used and how stable each of them are (for example, do they shed microplastic, release toxins or breakdown via friction in situ)

d. if the plastic is known to be hazardous to human health or that of other animals

e. alternative materials that could replace these plastics

f. any monitoring of plastic pollution that Council carries out on an ongoing basis and its results.

3. Receive a briefing on the findings of the review within 8 months. This work would cover an analysis of the use of plastics in infrastructure, existing monitoring and areas of risk of shedding, within existing resources.

BACKGROUND FROM COUNCILLOR KORZY

Every year, around 20 million tonnes of plastic waste leaks into the world’s aquatic ecosystems, including rivers, lakes and the oceans, according to the United Nations Environment Programme (1). Many of us are familiar with the impact of this plastic pollution on wildlife, with autopsies on seabirds revealing stomachs full of plastics (2) and other reports that 52 per cent of turtles have eaten plastic bags (3). Locally, many residents have volunteered on the AUSMAP project with Living Ocean, measuring microplastic waste on the coast from Palm Beach to Manly.

However, plastic pollution has a much wider impact. Large amounts of scientific research have been carried out for decades, examining the problems this waste causes. Last year, the pre-eminent scientific journal, Nature brought together a collection of papers focused on ending plastic pollution. Introducing the series it stated that: “Microplastics have been found in the deepest parts of the ocean, the remote Antarctic, and may even reach the stratosphere. Nanoplastics, small enough to enter the bloodstream, are now ubiquitous in air, water, and soil.” These 20 papers covered a broad range of issues concerning plastic pollution, including risks to food, the environment and human health; the release of hazardous chemicals in plastics caused by the warming environment; the impact of nanoplastics on aquatic ecosystems; and the exposure risk for sea birds (4).

The impacts of plastics on human health are yet to be fully understood. However, a joint project between the Minderoo Foundation and University of Adelaide, with results published last August, has reviewed thousands of scientific studies on exposure to plastic chemicals and the impacts on human health. It found plastics exposure was linked to a broad range of conditions including: miscarriage in foetuses; lower IQ, obesity, thyroid problems, and non-Hodgkins lymphoma in children; endometriosis, impacts on sperm concentration and quality, insulin resistance, and a variety of cancers in adults (5).

These concerns were highlighted in an ABC Four Corners report on 7 July 2025 into the surprising increase in cancers amongst Australians aged 30-39. Amongst these was a 500 per cent rise in cases of prostate cancer, 200 per cent increase in pancreatic cancer and 173 per cent increase in colorectal cancer, in that age group, between 2000 and 2024 (6).

A paediatrician who worked on the Minderoo study, Dr Christos Symeonides, pointed to the role of chemicals and in particular, those in plastics, and the need for further research. However, he told the ABC that given the potential impacts are irreversible, governments and regulators should not wait for conclusive proof to mitigate the risks.

This motion focuses on any potential environmental and health consequences of the use of new and/or recycled plastics introduced into the Northern Beaches environment via Council infrastructure. With the local government area so close to the ocean and multiple waterways, any microplastics released from that infrastructure are likely to end up in the sea.

The motion aims to identify where we are using plastics, what for and what type they are, whether or not they have any known impacts on human health or that of wildlife, and if alternatives are available.

It does not ask for an analysis of synthetic turf, due to the amount of work that is already available on this topic. Neither does it look for every instance of plastic use. However, it does ask for information regarding stormwater infrastructure that incorporates plastic, its stability and if there are any current alternatives.

REFERENCES

1. https://www.unep.org/plastic-pollution

2. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-05-15/birds-crunch-full-plastic-losing-war-waste/105221266

3. https://www.worldwildlife.org/stories/what-do-sea-turtles-eat-unfortunately-plastic-bags

4. https://www.nature.com/collections/gfhbbiifdf

5. https://www.minderoo.org/resources/plastic-health-umbrella-review/

6. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-07-08/cancer-early-onset-genx-millennials-screening-prevention/105495892

TRIM file ref	2025/461335
Attachments	Nil

TRIM file ref	2025/453745
Attachments	⇨1 Bicycle NSW Schools Bicycle Licence Proposal February 2025 (Included In Attachments Booklet)

Reporting team	Place & Economic Development
TRIM file ref	2025/401976
Attachments	⇨1 Draft Northern Beaches Business & Industry Stakeholder Committee - Minutes - Monday 2 June 2025 (Included In Attachments Booklet)

TRIM file ref	2025/461115
Attachments	⇨1 Childcare Checklist for Parents Prepared by Bravehearts (Included In Attachments Booklet)