Council Meeting
Wednesday, 28 May 2025 at 6:00 PM
Cumberland City Council Chambers
Merrylands Service Centre, 16 Memorial Avenue, Merrylands
Council Meeting
Wednesday, 28 May 2025 at 6:00 PM
Cumberland City Council Chambers
Merrylands Service Centre, 16 Memorial Avenue, Merrylands
Councillor Contact Details
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Granville Ward |
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0405 070 007 |
Ola.Hamed@cumberland.nsw.gov.au |
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Clr Steve Christou |
0419 651 187 |
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Clr Joseph Rahme |
0418 995 471 |
Joseph.Rahme@cumberland.nsw.gov.au |
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Greystanes Ward |
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Clr Dr Diane Colman |
0400 279 200 |
Diane.Colman@cumberland.nsw.gov.au |
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Clr Eddy Sarkis |
0425 348 000 |
Eddy.Sarkis@cumberland.nsw.gov.au |
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Clr Nadima Kafrouni-Saba |
0447 605 158 |
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Regents Park Ward |
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Clr Enver Yasar |
0497 428 929 |
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Clr Helen Hughes |
0400 264 534 |
Helen.Hughes@cumberland.nsw.gov.au |
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Clr Steve Yang |
0448 836 197 |
Steve.Yang@cumberland.nsw.gov.au |
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South Granville Ward |
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Clr Paul Garrard |
0414 504 504 |
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Clr Ahmed Ouf |
0436 936 553 |
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Clr Glenn Elmore |
0418 459 527 |
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Wentworthville Ward |
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Clr Michael Zaiter (Deputy Mayor) |
0418 432 797 |
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Clr Suman Saha |
0419 546 950 |
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Clr Sujan Selventhiran |
0427 104 940 |
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Statement of Ethical Obligations
Oath or Affirmation of Office
In taking the Oath or Affirmation of Office, each Councillor has made a commitment to undertake the duties of the office of councillor in the best interests of the people of Cumberland and Cumberland City Council and that they will faithfully and impartially carry out the functions, powers, authorities and discretions vested in them under the Local Government Act 1993 or any other Act to the best of their ability and judgment.
Conflicts of Interest
A councillor who has a conflict of interest in any matter with which the council is concerned, and who is present at a meeting of the council when the matter is being considered, must disclose the interest and the nature of the interest to the meeting as soon as practicable. Both the disclosure and the nature of the interest must be recorded in the minutes of the Council meeting where the conflict of interest arises. Councillors should ensure that they are familiar with Parts 4 and 5 of the Code of Conduct in relation to their obligations to declare and manage conflicts of interests.
For information on Council services and facilities please visit www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Council Meeting
28 May 2025
MM05/25-17 Mayoral Minute - Digital Built Australia Awards Recognition.......... 4
MM05/25-18 Mayoral Minute - Successful Back to Guildford Festival 2025....... 6
MM05/25-19 Mayoral Minute - Cumberland City Council Leading the Charge for Female Participation and Excellence in Sport................................................. 8
MM05/25-20 Mayoral Minute - Flood Appeal Donation and Offer of Support to NSW Councils Affected by Recent Flooding................................................................ 9
MM05/25-21 Mayoral Minute - Community Grants - Hardship Assistance for Children and Youth in Education and Sport............................................................ 11
MM05/25-22 Mayoral Minute - Advocacy For New Housing Precinct in Clyde..... 13
28 May 2025
Item No: MM05/25-17
Mayoral Minute - Digital Built Australia Awards Recognition
Author: Mayor Ola Hamed
Summary
The Digital Built Australia Awards, presented by the TEMPO Institute, celebrate outstanding achievements in digital innovation across the built environment sector. The "People" category highlights individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and impact in transforming how digital practices are adopted and delivered in government settings.
In 2025, the winner of the "People (Government Leader)" category was announced as Council’s Manager Place and Economy, Christopher Manoski. Christopher has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to the advancement of digital transformation within government. His leadership has resulted in improved service delivery, enhanced use of data and technology, and greater alignment with smart infrastructure goals that benefit communities nationwide.
Cumberland City Council also received a commendation in the Policy Category of the 2025 Digital Built Australia Awards for its Cumberland Smart Places Strategy and Action Plan. This recognition celebrates Council’s forward-thinking approach to urban planning and innovation, and its commitment to delivering smart, connected, and sustainable communities across the local government area.
The Cumberland Smart Places Strategy and Action Plan outlines a clear and ambitious vision for how emerging technologies and data-driven solutions can be integrated into the built environment to improve liveability, sustainability, economic development and community wellbeing. The Strategy sets out practical actions to support digital innovation, enhance infrastructure, and enable better services for residents, businesses and visitors.
This commendation reflects Cumberland City Council’s leadership in the digital transformation of local government and its proactive efforts to respond to the needs of a growing and diverse population. It also acknowledges the collaborative work of Council staff, stakeholders and the community in shaping a strategy that positions Cumberland as a leader in smart city planning and implementation within the Australian context.
As local government continues to navigate a rapidly changing digital landscape, such leadership is not only commendable but essential. This award represents an important achievement and sets a positive example for other government entities working toward digital modernisation.
Therefore Councillors, tonight I move:
That Council:
1. Endorse the Mayoral Minute;
2. Congratulates Councils Manager Place and Economy, Christopher Manoski, on being announced the winner of the 2025 Digital Built Australia Award in the "People (Government Leader)" category; and
3. Congratulates all staff and community stakeholders involved in the delivery of Council’s highly commended Smart Places Strategy and Action Plan.
Attachments
Nil
28 May 2025
Item No: MM05/25-18
Mayoral Minute - Successful Back to Guildford Festival 2025
Author: Mayor Ola Hamed
Summary
I would like to take this opportunity to formally acknowledge and congratulate all staff involved in the planning and delivery of the highly successful Back to Guildford 2025 event, held on Saturday 24 May from 4:00pm.
This vibrant event brought our community together in the heart of Guildford for an evening of celebration, connection, and culture. The event featured a wide variety of entertainment and attractions, including:
· Street performers creating a festive and interactive atmosphere;
· Live stage music, DJ sets, and band performances in Guildford Laneway;
· A stunning display of classic cars;
· A diverse range of food and activity stalls offering something for everyone.
Thousands of residents and visitors attended, making it one of the most well supported community events in our city this year.
A key moment in the evening were the formal proceedings, which included speeches from the Hon. Jason Clare MP, Federal Member for Blaxland and Minister for Education, and Ms Julia Finn MP, State Member for Granville and Parliamentary Secretary to the Premier. Both generously gave their time to share their support for our community at this wonderful celebration of Guildford’s identity and heritage.
The success of Back to Guildford 2025 is a direct reflection of the passion, commitment, and collaboration of our Council staff. I would particularly like to commend Council’s Events Team, as well as operational staff who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to deliver a safe, inclusive, and memorable event.
On behalf of Council, I extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to everyone involved. Your efforts have strengthened community pride and provided a valuable platform for local engagement and celebration.
Therefore Councillors, tonight I move:
Recommendation
That Council:
1. Endorse the Mayoral Minute;
2. Congratulate all staff involved with the successful delivery of the Back to Guildford Festival in 2025; and
3. Endorse the event, as delivered, being programmed into the Events Program and forward Operational Plan and budget for future years.
Attachments
Nil
28 May 2025
Item No: MM05/25-19
Mayoral Minute - Cumberland City Council Leading the Charge for Female Participation and Excellence in Sport
Author: Mayor Ola Hamed
Summary
This Council has long recognised the importance of fostering participation, inclusion, and excellence in sport. Today, I am proud to advise the community of another significant step this Council is taking forward in our commitment to women’s sport. This Council is leading the way in building a future where female athletes have equal opportunity to thrive.
Within this Council meeting agenda, we will consider a confidential tender report for the construction of a High Performance Basketball Centre at Wyatt Park, Lidcombe – a facility that will stand as a symbol of our dedication to elite sporting infrastructure, female athletic development, and community engagement. This centre will not only support high-level training and host competitions but also provide a welcoming environment that encourages young girls and women to pursue basketball and sport more broadly.
Women’s participation in sport is a priority for this Council – not in words alone, but in action. We understand the vital role that sport plays in health, confidence, leadership, and community connection. By investing in facilities such as this centre if adopted this evening, we are ensuring that women and girls have the pathways, resources, and opportunities they deserve.
This amazing project builds on Council’s already strong partnership with the Parramatta Eels and their NRLW team who play out of Eric Tweedale Stadium in Granville. This is a further testament to our commitment to advancing professional pathways for women in sport. Council’s continued support for women’s sport aligns with our strategic priorities and reflects the values of equity, opportunity, and excellence. We are not just keeping pace with progress – we are helping to shape it.
I commend this initiative to Council and look forward to the next chapter of leadership, achievement, and inclusion in our city’s proud sporting story.
Therefore Councillors, tonight I move:
Recommendation
That Council endorse the Mayoral Minute, detailing Cumberland City Council’s strong commitment to delivering equality for female participation and excellence in sport.
Attachments
Nil
28 May 2025
Item No: MM05/25-20
Mayoral Minute - Flood Appeal Donation and Offer of Support to NSW Councils Affected by Recent Flooding
Author: Mayor Ola Hamed
Summary
Recent severe flooding across the Mid to Far North Coast of New South Wales has resulted in widespread devastation. Over 10,000 properties have been damaged, and approximately 800 homes have been declared uninhabitable. Tragically, five lives have been lost, and more than 50,000 residents were left isolated as floodwaters cut off access to homes and communities.
The floods have also devastated local agriculture and industries, including major impacts to dairy farms, with the loss of livestock and destruction of vital farming infrastructure.
In response, emergency services and the Australian Defence Force have been mobilised, but the scale and severity of this disaster demand the support of the wider local government sector.
Tonight, our Council will be adopting the Quarterly Budget Review Statement, which includes the allocation of an additional total of $4.7 million in funding towards our Roads Program, particularly to support heavy patching works. This investment reflects our ongoing commitment to maintaining resilient infrastructure – a need that is now critically evident in the communities impacted by flooding.
I also propose that Council make a donation of $5,000 to the GIVIT NSW Flood appeal, to assist families in their recovery of their homes with essential goods.
It is both timely and appropriate that we extend our hand of support to our fellow councils and their residents navigating this recovery, during these extremely challenging times.
Therefore Councillors tonight I move:
Recommendation
That Council:
1. Endorse the Mayoral Minute;
2. Formally expresses our solidarity and support to councils affected by the recent floods across the Mid to Far North Coast of NSW, including but not limited to: MidCoast, Clarence Valley, Coffs Harbour, Kempsey, Nambucca, Bellingen, and Port Macquarie-Hastings;
3. Writes to the Mayor of these Councils offering practical support, such as staff assistance, technical expertise, or equipment sharing, where feasible;
4. Acknowledges and commends the work of emergency services, council staff, and volunteers who continue to support their communities through these challenging times; and
5. Donates $5,000 to the GIVIT NSW Flood Appeal (ABN 21 137 408 201), funded from the Emergency Relief Fund.
Attachments
Nil
28 May 2025
Item No: MM05/25-21
Mayoral Minute - Community Grants - Hardship Assistance for Children and Youth in Education and Sport
Author: Mayor Ola Hamed
Summary
As the cost of living crisis deepens, I am increasingly hearing from parents and carers in our community who are struggling to make ends meet. The stories are consistent and deeply concerning — families who cannot afford to enrol their children in organised sport, pay for critical skills training such as learn to swim, or even pay for the cost of school excursions. In some cases, talented young people are forced to decline opportunities to represent their community on the national or international stage simply because the financial burden is too great.
This is not just about missed opportunities; it is about equity, health and wellbeing. Participation in sport is not only beneficial for physical health, but also for mental wellbeing, resilience, and social connection. School excursions and extracurricular activities are integral to a well-rounded education. No child should be excluded from these formative experiences because of financial hardship.
In response to this growing need, I propose that Council establish a new stream within our existing Community Grants Program – to be titled ‘Hardship Assistance for Children and Youth in Education and Sport’.
The purpose of this new stream will be to provide support for families experiencing financial hardship, helping to ensure their children can continue to participate in the community, dream big, and pursue their passions – whether in the classroom or on the field.
I will leave the development of specific eligibility criteria, financial caps, and governance arrangements to our capable officers, with the expectation that strong accountability and fairness will underpin the program’s implementation.
Importantly, this initiative will be delivered within Council’s existing Community Grants Program allocation – no additional funding will be required at this time. It is a matter of reprioritising within existing resources to better meet the most pressing needs of our residents.
Our community is strong, but many are doing it tough. It is our role as a Council to step up and support where we can. Every child in our local government area should be given the chance to participate, grow, and succeed – regardless of their financial circumstances.
Therefore Councillors, tonight I move:
Recommendation
That Council:
1. Endorse the Mayoral Minute; and
2. Supports the creation of a new stream under the Community Grants Program titled ‘Hardship Assistance for Children and Youth in Education and Sport’, to be delivered within existing budget allocation, with program criteria to be developed and implemented by Council officers.
Attachments
Nil
28 May 2025
Item No: MM05/25-22
Mayoral Minute - Advocacy For New Housing Precinct in Clyde
Author: Mayor Ola Hamed
Summary
Council notes the outcome of the vote by members of the Australian Turf Club yesterday, in which the Club resolved not to support the sale of Rosehill Racecourse to the NSW Government for the purpose of a new residential housing precinct.
Cumberland City Council remains committed to addressing housing supply challenges and supporting the delivery of diverse, affordable, and well-located homes for our growing community.
In light of this outcome, Council will continue to identify and progress alternative opportunities that align with our housing objectives and urban renewal priorities.
To that end, I propose that Council bring forward an initiative to establish the suburb of Clyde as a future residential housing precinct. Clyde is highly strategic in its location - situated adjacent to Auburn, Granville and the Parramatta Central Business District, well served by existing rail infrastructure and open space including proximity to the Duck River, and is supported by established utilities and road networks. The precinct has strong potential to support urban renewal and deliver a mix of housing types, including affordable and key worker housing.
Clyde currently accommodates a mix of land uses. The area north of Clyde Station, which is predominantly located within the City of Parramatta, is characterised by heavy industry, logistics, and rail infrastructure. Meanwhile, the area south of Clyde Station, located within Cumberland City Council is home to several key businesses, including the TabCorp head office, an Australia Post depot and a number of engineering and building services businesses employing approximately 150 people.
Given the shared jurisdiction between Cumberland City Council and City of Parramatta Council, a coordinated and staged planning approach will be essential to ensure the precinct’s future development appropriately balances housing, employment, infrastructure and transport.
To achieve a strategic outcome for the community, it is proposed that Council work collaboratively with the City of Parramatta Council to develop and progress this proposal. This will enable an effective joint advocacy approach on this matter, to drive the progression of this exciting housing opportunity for the community.
Therefore Councillors, tonight I move:
Recommendation
That Council:
1. Endorse in principle, an advocacy position for the suburb of Clyde being designated as a potential new residential housing precinct by the NSW Government.
2. Write to the Lord Mayor of City of Parramatta Council, seeking to initiate a joint and coordinated advocacy proposal to the NSW Government detailing infrastructure planning, housing development and additional jobs within the Clyde precinct.
3. Write to the Premier of New South Wales, the Hon. Chris Minns MP, seeking the NSW Government’s support for the planning, infrastructure coordination, and delivery of Clyde as a future residential growth area.
Attachments