Agenda of Council Meeting - Wednesday, 24 September 2025

Councillor Contact Details

Granville Ward
Clr Ola Hamed (Mayor)	0405 070 007	Ola.Hamed@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Clr Steve Christou	0419 651 187	Steve.Christou@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Clr Joseph Rahme	0418 995 471	Joseph.Rahme@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Greystanes Ward
Clr Dr Diane Colman	0400 279 200	Diane.Colman@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Clr Eddy Sarkis	0425 348 000	Eddy.Sarkis@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Clr Nadima Kafrouni-Saba	0447 605 158	Nadima.KafrouniSaba@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Regents Park Ward
Clr Enver Yasar	0497 428 929	Enver.Yasar@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Clr Helen Hughes	0400 264 534	Helen.Hughes@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Clr Steve Yang	0448 836 197	Steve.Yang@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
South Granville Ward
Clr Paul Garrard	0414 504 504	Paul.Garrard@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Clr Ahmed Ouf	0449 877 141	Ahmed.Ouf@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Clr Glenn Elmore	0418 459 527	Glenn.Elmore@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Wentworthville Ward
Clr Michael Zaiter (Deputy Mayor)	0418 432 797	Michael.Zaiter@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Clr Suman Saha	0419 546 950	Suman.Saha@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Clr Sujan Selventhiran	0427 104 940	Sujan.Selventhiran@cumberland.nsw.gov.au

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

24 September 2025

ORDER OF BUSINESS

All Council Meetings are livestreamed via Council’s website. An audio/visual recording of the meeting is published following the meeting. Recordings remain on Council's website for a period of 12 months and are archived following this.

1 Opening of Meeting

2 Opening Prayer / Acknowledgement of Country / National Anthem

3 Apologies / Requests for Leave of Absence/ Requests for Attendance by Audio-Visual Link

4 Confirmation of Previous Minutes

C09/25-180 Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council - 27 August 2025....... 5

5 Disclosures of Interest

6 Mayoral Minutes

Nil

7 Public Forum / Presentation of Petitions

8 Items Resolved by Exception

9 Reports to Council

C09/25-181 Legal report........................................................................................... 28

C09/25-182 Investment Report - August 2025...................................................... 30

C09/25-183 Proposed Christmas / New Year Operations 2025-2026.............. 50

C09/25-184 Performance and Progress Report - January to June 2025......... 57

C09/25-185 Adoption of Governance Policies & Draft Code of Meeting Practice 169

C09/25-186 Draft Children and Families Strategy 2026 - 2030....................... 365

C09/25-187 25 Hampden Road, South Wentworthville – Voluntary Planning Agreement 432

C09/25-188 Draft Submission - Proposal for a New Crown Cemetery at Carnarvon Golf Course................................................................................................. 466

10 Reports of Council Committees

C09/25-189 Cumberland Local Traffic Committee - Meeting of 6 August 2025.. 475

C09/25-190 Audit, Risk & Improvement Committee - Minutes of Meeting held on 26 August 2025..................................................................................................... 854

11 Motions Pursuant to Notice

C09/25-191 Notice of Motion - The District Governor of Rotary District 9675 865

C09/25-192 Notice of Motion - Carnarvon Golf Course Proposal................... 866

C09/25-193 Notice of Motion - Community Fun Run......................................... 867

C09/25-194 Notice of Motion - Support for the Nepalese Community............ 868

12 Motions to Alter or Rescind Council Resolution

Nil

13 Questions with Notice

Nil

14 Closed Session Reports

Nil

15 Confidential Attachments from Open Reports

C09/25-181 Legal report

1... Litigation register

Note: Included in Closed Business Paper in accordance with Section 10A(2)(g) of the Local Government Act as the information involves advice concerning litigation, or advice as comprises a discussion of this matter, that would otherwise be privileged from production in legal proceedings on the ground of legal professional privilege.

16 Resolutions passed in Closed Session

17 Other / General Matters

18 Close

Council Meeting

24 September 2025

Item No: C09/25-182

Investment Report - August 2025

Directorate: Corporate Performance

Responsible Officer: Director Corporate Performance (Deputy GM)

Community Strategic Plan Goal: Delivering Sustainable Infrastructure and Services

Summary

This report provides an update on the performance and compliance of Council’s investment portfolio for the month of August 2025.

Recommendation

That Council receive the August 2025 Investment Report.

Report

Included in this report are the following items that highlight Council’s investment portfolio performance for August 2025.

Council Investments as at 31 August 2025

Council’s investment portfolio has a current market value of $289,105,293 and has returned 5.16% in the last 12 months. The following table reflects Council’s holding in various investment categories:

Face Value = capital value to be repaid upon maturity

Purchase Price = capital value +/- premiums or discounts

Current Value = current market value + accrued interest

Investment Portfolio Performance

Council’s investment portfolio returned 0.43% (actual) for the month on a marked-to-market basis versus the bank bill index benchmark’s 0.32% (actual) return. Council's managed fund investments may experience monthly volatility as financial markets undergo changes in outlook. However, such investments are expected to yield a favourable return over the long term. For the past 12 months, the investment portfolio has returned 5.16% versus the benchmark’s 4.25%.

As at 31 August 2025 the cumulative interest earned was $2,213,067 This is $645,817 higher than the year-to-date budget of $1,567,250.

The performance chart below shows Council’s rolling 12 monthly return versus benchmark over the past 5 years. Each data point is the 12 month return for the stated month end:

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Community Engagement

There are no consultation processes for Council associated with this report.

Policy Implications

There are no policy implications for Council associated with this report.

Risk Implications

Preservation of capital is the prime objective of the investment portfolio. Investments are placed in a manner that seeks to ensure security and safeguarding of the investment portfolio. This includes managing credit and interest rate risk within identified thresholds and parameters that is both set in Council’s Investment Policy and guided by the investment advisor.

Financial Implications

There are no financial implications for Council associated with this report.

CONCLUSION

Council hereby certifies that the investments listed within this report have been made in accordance with Section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993, Clause 212 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 and Council’s Investment Policy.

Attachments

1. Investment Report August 2025

2. Investment Commentary August 2025

Council Meeting

24 September 2025

Item No: C09/25-183

Proposed Christmas / New Year Operations 2025-2026

Directorate: Corporate Performance

Responsible Officer: Director Corporate Performance (Deputy GM)

Community Strategic Plan Goal: Providing Local Leadership

Summary

This report details the proposed operational arrangements for Council over the 2025/26 Christmas/New Year period. Consistent with previous years, it is proposed that whilst a brief shut down period be applied in most areas, a presence consisting of staff required to ensure continuity of essential services is to be maintained.

This report also outlines the delegations proposed for the Mayor and/or General Manager during the Council recess period where Council does not hold a meeting.

Recommendation

That Council:

1. Endorse the implementation of the operational arrangements outlined in this report for the 2025/26 Christmas/New Year period and that these details be published to the community.

2. In accordance with Section 377 of the Local Government Act 1993, delegate authority to the Mayor and General Manager or in their absence, to the persons acting in these roles, during the period of Council recess to jointly exercise the powers, authorities, duties and functions of Council which cannot reasonably be deferred to the first Ordinary Council meeting following the Council recess. This period:

a) Commencing from midnight immediately following the final Ordinary Council meeting held in 2025 before the recess period as approved by Council; and

b) Concluding at the time of commencement of the first Council meeting held immediately after the end of the recess period; noting that any such decisions are to be unanimous and circulated to Councillors for their information and will be reported to the first Ordinary Council Meeting following the recess period

Report

Consistent with Council’s adopted Code of Meeting Practice, there will be no Ordinary Meetings of Council scheduled to be held in January 2026. It is therefore anticipated that the recess period for 2025/26 will commence following the final ordinary Council meeting in 2025.

Council Recess Period

During this period there may be matters which require determination or urgent action by Council. It is proposed that during this period the Mayor and the General Manager, or the persons acting in these positions if the incumbents are absent, be delegated with the authority, pursuant to Section 377 of the Local Government Act 1993, to jointly exercise the powers, authorities, duties and functions of Council which cannot reasonably be deferred to the first Ordinary Council Meeting following Council recess.

The following are the proposed operating arrangements for key services over this shut down period:

Proposed Christmas/New Year Operations

It is proposed that for 2025, Council operations cease from midday on Tuesday 23 December 2025 in alignment with Council’s staff Christmas luncheon. The details for this event are being confirmed and all Councillors will be notified, and their attendance would be welcome.

To allow all staff to attend this event, it is proposed that Council services will cease from midday on Tuesday 23 December 2025 and resume on Monday 5 January 2026. During this period, only staff required to continue working to deliver essential services or maintain an on-call presence will be required to work. For the week commencing Monday 5 January 2026, all staff who are not required to work and who have excess leave balances, will be directed to take leave, in addressing Council’s leave liability. This practice is consistent with previous years and would see these employees returning to work on Monday 12 January 2026.

The proposed operating arrangements for key services over this shut down period are as outlined below.

Customer Service and Afterhours

Both customer service counters will be closed during the shutdown period, however the Contact Centre will remain open for normal operating hours on the days which are not public holidays. Normal business operations will resume on Monday 5 January 2026.

Calls will be diverted to the afterhours service during the shutdown period.

Operating arrangements for the Customer Service Centres will be as follows:

Customer Service Centres (Auburn, Merrylands, Greystanes, Berala, Wentworthville)
Tuesday 23 December 2025	Closed from noon
Wednesday 24 December 2025	Open until 1.00pm
Thursday 25 December 2025	Closed Public Holiday
Friday 26 December 2025	Closed Public Holiday
Monday 29 December 2025	Closed
Tuesday 30 December 2025	Closed
Wednesday 31 December 2025	Closed
Thursday 1 January 2026	Closed Public Holiday
Friday 2 January 2026	Closed
Monday 5 January 2026	Resume normal operations

Operating arrangements for the Call Centre will be as follows:

Contact Centre
Tuesday 23 December 2025	Closed from noon
Wednesday 24 December 2025	Open until 1.00pm
Thursday 25 December 2025	Closed - Public Holiday
Friday 26 December 2025	Closed - Public Holiday
Monday 29 December 2025	Open
Tuesday 30 December 2025	Open
Wednesday 31 December 2025	Open
Thursday 1 January 2026	Closed - Public Holiday
Friday 2 January 2026	Resume normal operations

Staffed Community Centres

All centres will be available for pre-bookings during these periods and access can be arranged prior to 23 December, however the centres will not be staffed.

Operating arrangements for staffed Community Centres will be as follows:

Staffed Community Centres (Auburn, Berala, Guildford)
Tuesday 23 December 2025	Closed from noon
Wednesday 24 December 2025	Closed
Thursday 25 December 2025	Closed - Public Holiday
Friday 26 December 2025	Closed - Public Holiday
Monday 29 December 2025	Closed
Tuesday 30 December 2025	Closed
Wednesday 31 December 2025	Closed
Thursday 1 January 2026	Closed - Public Holiday
Friday 2 January 2026	Closed
Monday 5 January 2026	Resume normal operations

Education and Care Services

Operating arrangements will be as per below for Education and Care Services:

*Service Type*	*Closes*	*Re-opens*
Long Day Care	Monday 22 December 2025 at 6pm	Monday 12 January 2026 Resumes normal operational hours
Out of School Hours Care (OOSH)	Friday 19 December 2025 at 6pm	Monday 2 February 2026 Resumes normal operational hours
CCC Family Day Care Office	Tuesday 23 December 2025 at noon	Monday 12 January 2026 Resumes normal operational hours

School Holiday Care

*Service Name*	*Opens*	*Closes*
Sherwood Grange OOSH	Monday 22 December 2025 at 7am	Monday 22 December 2025 at 6pm
Ringrose OOSH	Monday 5 January 2026 at 7am	Friday 30 January 2026 at 6pm
Sherwood Grange OOSH	Monday 5 January 2026 at 7am	Friday 30 January 2026 at 6pm

Note: All centres/services are closed on Public Holidays

Library Services

Libraries
Tuesday 23 December 2025	Closed from noon
Wednesday 24 December 2025	Closed
Thursday 25 December 2025	Closed Public Holiday
Friday 26 December 2025	Closed Public Holiday
Saturday 27 December 2025	Closed
Sunday 28 December 2025	Closed
Monday 29 December 2025	Auburn, Granville, Merrylands and Wentworthville 9:30am – 5:30pm Greystanes, Guildford, Lidcombe and Regents Park - Closed
Tuesday 30 December 2025	Auburn, Granville, Merrylands and Wentworthville 9:30am – 5:30pm Greystanes, Guildford, Lidcombe and Regents Park - Closed
Wednesday 31 December 2025	Auburn, Granville, Merrylands and Wentworthville 9:30am – 5:30pm Greystanes, Guildford, Lidcombe and Regents Park - Closed
Thursday 1 January 2026	Closed Public Holiday
Friday 2 January 2026	Closed
Saturday 3 January 2026	Closed
Sunday 4 January 2026	Closed
Monday 5 January 2026	Resume normal operations

Waste Collection

These services will continue as normal during this period and there will also be staff rostered on-call for cleansing and other waste related emergencies.

Regulatory Services

Ranger Services will continue as normal except for the designated public holidays when an on-call service will be available.

Development Compliance and Environmental Health teams will have staff rostered on call over the period to ensure coverage for essential services and emergency situations. Parking Patrol will be available to monitor town centres and respond to urgent complaints, with the exception of Public Holidays. The Ranger team will have on-call arrangements in place on the Public Holidays and will work normal shifts on the other days.

Parks Maintenance

Staff will be rostered on to work every day except for Christmas Day. There will also be staff rostered on-call on every day of the shutdown period to attend to emergencies and ensure continuity of essential services throughout this period.

Other Recreational Facilities

Council’s golf courses and Botanic Gardens will be closed on Christmas Day and then will resume normal operating hours.

Swimming Pools

All operational aquatic centres will close at 5.30pm on Wednesday 24 December 2025 and remain closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day. The centres will all reopen on Saturday 27 December 2025 and be open on reduced hours (9.30am to 7.00pm) until Friday 2 January 2026 when normal operating will resume across all operational centres.

Other Recreational Facilities

The Granville Centre, Holroyd Centre and Eric Tweedale will be closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day and then will open subject to bookings. The Eric Tweedale Gym and Granville Swim Centre Gym will be closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day and then will resume normal operating hours.

Community Engagement

Upon confirmation of the operating arrangements for the various services outlined in this report, these details will be published to the community via the relevant channels.

Policy Implications

There are no policy implications for Council associated with this report.

Risk Implications

There are no risk implications for Council associated with this report.

Financial Implications

There are no financial implications for Council associated with this report.

CONCLUSION

The operating arrangements proposed in this report for the 2025/26 Christmas/New Year period allow Council to ensure that service obligations to the community are balanced with the need to allow staff to take leave during gazetted public holidays and adjoining dates. Further details regarding the contact numbers for on-call officers will be made available to Councillors once confirmed.

Attachments

Nil

Council Meeting

24 September 2025

Item No: C09/25-184

Performance and Progress Report - January to June 2025

Directorate: Corporate Performance

Responsible Officer: Director Corporate Performance (Deputy GM)

Community Strategic Plan Goal: Providing Local Leadership

Summary

The Operational Plan 2024-2025 identified Council’s planned actions for the year, as well as the allocated budget of the delivery of Services. These activities are in direct response to the strategic goals and community vision contained within the Community Strategic Plan 2017-2027.

The six monthly Performance and Progress Report provides an update on Council’s progress in implementing the planned activities for the period January – June 2025 and is provided under Attachment 1 to this report.

Recommendation

That the report be received.

Report

This report provides an update to Council and the community on the progress made in implementing the activities outlined in the Operational Plan 2024-2025.

The six monthly Performance and Progress Report outlines progress against 339 actions for the 138 principal deliverables detailed in the Operational Plan 2024-2025.

As at 30 June 2025:

• 59.0% of actions are ‘Completed/Target Met’

• 35.7% of actions are ‘On Track’

• 1.8% of actions ‘Needs Attention’

• 3.5% of actions are ‘On Hold’.

Council also measures performance against indicators. For the period to 30 June 2025, of the 238 performance indicators for the 138 principal deliverables detailed in the Operational Plan 2024-2025:

• 71.4% of performance indicators measures are ‘Completed/Target Met’

• 7.1% of performance indicators measures are ‘On Track’

• 6.3% of performance indicators ‘Needs Attention’

• 9.2% of performance indicators measures are ‘Critical/Target Not Met’.

• 5.0% of performance indicators are ‘On Hold’

• 0.8% of performance indicators are ‘Discontinued’.

Highlights this Reporting Period

· Council was nominated for the National Awards for Local Government in the category of Cohesive Communities for the Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) Campaign ‘Shared Spaces, Shared Responsibility: Creating Accessible Environments Together’. The campaign was designed to enhance community awareness of access and inclusion of people with a disability in the community.

· In collaboration with Royal Life Saving NSW, Council delivered a 10 week Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Adult Learn to Swim program for 40 participants.

· A food safety seminar was delivered in June 2025 to promote safe food handling practices across food businesses in Cumberland, helping to protect the community from foodborne illnesses.

· Council adopted the Integrated Planning and Reporting (IP&R) Plans and Strategies in June 2025. The IP&R plans incorporate the community’s vision, reflect shared aspirations and outline Council’s commitments, priorities and actions. They are supported by asset, workforce, digital, and financial planning strategies to provide the community with clear and detailed information on how Council intends to sustainably resource its commitments.

· Council successfully delivered nine citizenship ceremonies with 1,305 conferees receiving citizenship.

· Council launched the Wellbeing Project to enhance support for people experiencing homelessness, fostering collaboration through regular outreach and a new sector working group involving community organisations, service providers, churches, and stakeholders across Cumberland.

· Council’s Swim Centres continued to demonstrate excellence with nominations as finalists for the following Royal Lifesaving NSW Aquas Awards Gala 2025 categories:

o Excellence in Innovation (Visitor Management System)

o Poolie of the Year

o Pool Lifeguard of the Year.

· Council announced the successful construction of Australia’s first Green, Cool Carpark. The Cool Carpark Project has highlighted the impact of urban cooling solutions in reducing the effects of extreme heat, receiving extensive media coverage including ABC news.

· Council’s Public Toilet Map is available on Council’s website. This user-friendly tool helps residents and visitors locate public and accessible toilet facilities. The map includes information on adult change facilities, baby care amenities, accessibility features, and opening hours. It supports greater independence, community participation, and travel confidence by making it easier for people to plan their trips throughout the area.

· Council has entered into its first long-term lease agreement at Wyatt Park with the Western Suburbs District Rugby League Football Club Limited. This marks an important step as Wyatt Park begins its ongoing development into a valued recreational space.

A detailed update on Council’s performance and progress during the reporting period is included as Attachment 1 to this report.

Community Engagement

The six-monthly Performance and Progress Report January – June 2025 will be placed on Council’s website for public viewing.

Policy Implications

There are no policy implications for Council associated with this report.

Risk Implications

There are no risk implications for Council associated with this report.

Financial Implications

There are no financial implications for Council associated with this report.

CONCLUSION

Council made significant progress during the reporting period in implementing the commitments made in the Operational Plan 2024-2025.

Attachments

1. Performance and Progress Report - January to June 2025

Council Meeting

24 September 2025

Council Meeting

24 September 2025

Item No: C09/25-185

Adoption of Governance Policies & Draft Code of Meeting Practice

Directorate: Governance and Risk

Responsible Officer: Director Governance and Risk

Community Strategic Plan Goal: Providing Local Leadership

Summary

This report recommends that the Draft Procurement Policy, Draft Statement of Business Ethics, Draft Fraud and Corruption Control Policy and Council’s existing Code of Meeting Practice and Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy be adopted by Council. This report also recommends that the Draft Code of Meeting Practice, based on the new OLG Model document, be placed on public exhibition.

Recommendation

That Council:

1. Adopt the following Policies as attached to this report:

· Procurement Policy;

· Statement of Business Ethics;

· Fraud & Corruption Control Policy;

· Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy (interim); and

· Code of Meeting Practice (interim).

2. Determine to progress with Option A or Option B with respect to Public Forum as detailed at Appendix 1 to the attached Draft Code of Meeting Practice.

3. Place the Draft Code of Meeting Practice on public exhibition and submission for 42 days as required under S.361 of the Local Government Act 1993, with a report to be returned for Council’s determination following consultation.

Report

Procurement Policy, Statement of Business Ethics and Fraud and Corruption Control Policy

At the 26 March 2025 Ordinary Council meeting, Council resolved to place the Draft Procurement Policy, Draft Statement of Business Ethics and Draft Fraud and Corruption Control Policy on public exhibition for community feedback (Min. 906). Subsequently, Council received no submissions during the exhibition period.

In accordance with the above, it is now recommended that the Draft Procurement Policy, Draft Statement of Business Ethics and Draft Fraud and Corruption Control Policy Council be adopted by Council as outlined in the attachments of this report.

Code of Meeting Practice & Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy

At the Ordinary meeting of Council held on 13 November 2024, Council resolved to publicly exhibit the Draft Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy and the Draft Code of Meeting Practice. Following re-consideration of the matter at the 11 December 2024 meeting, Council publicly exhibited the Draft Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy, from Monday 23 December 2024 to Monday 3 February 2025. Following written representation from the Office of Local Government, Council’s General Manager placed the public exhibition process of the Draft Code of Meeting Practice on hold, given that the Office of Local Government had given notice they would be imminently releasing a discussion paper on a proposed new Model Code of Meeting Practice.

Whilst awaiting confirmation on timing for the Model Code to be finalised by the Office of Local Government, Council proceeded to publicly exhibit Council’s Draft Code in July 2025, given Council’s statutory timeframe to adopt its Code of Meeting Practice post-election was nearing in September 2025.

During Council’s public exhibition process, the Minister for Local Government released the final Model of Code of Meeting Practice, providing Councils until 31 December 2025 to adopt a Code of their own based on the mandatory provisions of the new Model.

Statutory Requirements

To adhere to Council’s post-election obligations under the Local Government Act 1993, it is proposed that Council now simply re-adopts its existing Code of Meeting Practice and Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy for a short period as an interim measure, as Council is required to adopt these Policies by the end of September 2025.

Draft Code of Meeting Practice

It is also recommended that Council publicly exhibit its proposed new Draft Code of Meeting Practice, based on the new Model Office of Local Government document for 42 days. A copy of the newly released Office of Local Government Model Code of Meeting Practice and associated guidance is also attached to this report.

Mandatory clauses that Council must adopt within its own Code are indicated within the Draft Code of Meeting Practice in black font. Non-mandatory or optional clauses recommended for Council’s inclusion within its Code are drafted in red font. Any supplementary or clarification drafting proposed within the Code is in blue font.

A workshop was held on 17 September 2025 to discuss with Councillors key changes under the new Model Code. Under the new Model Code, Council may only conduct Public Forum prior to the Council meeting if it wishes.

Accordingly, two options are presented to Council as Procedures within the Draft Code of Meeting Practice attached, at Appendix 1. One option is to conduct Public Forum for 2 hours on the day prior to the Council meeting. A second option to conduct Public Forum 30 minutes immediately prior to the Council meeting. Council is also required to determine whether or not the Chairperson is authorised to expel any attendee at a Council or Committee meeting other than a Councillor, or all attendees including Councillors. The Draft Code of Meeting Practice attached recommends authorising the Chairperson to expel any person attending the meeting, in line with recent changes consulted with Councils with respect to the Minister for Local Government’s review of the Councillor Misconduct Framework. Council may, however determine if it wishes to proceed with the alternate clause.

The outcome of both consultation processes on the Draft Code of Meeting Practice and the previous consultation on the Draft Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy will be reported to Council for its final determination by the end of 2025.

Endorsing the above actions will ensure Council is complying with its statutory obligations. These Policies are now recommended to Council for adoption and/or public exhibition.

Community Engagement

Council publicly exhibited the Draft Procurement Policy, Draft Statement of Business Ethics and Draft Fraud and Corruption Control Policy, for a minimum period of 28 days from 2 April 2025 to 4 May 2025 on Council’s website.

Council had 150 visits to the ‘Have Your Say’ community engagement website during the public exhibition period, with 157 people downloading the policies provided. No submissions were received from respondents.

Policy Implications

The adoption of these policies will rescind the previously adopted versions of them. Given the recent release of the new Model Code of Meeting Practice by the Office of Local Government, Council is required to exhibit and adopt a new Code of Meeting Practice based on the new Model Code by the end of 2025, to be effective from the first meeting in 2026 to comply with the Local Government Act 1993.

Risk Implications

There are no risk implications for Council associated with this report.

Financial Implications

There are no financial implications for Council associated with this report.

CONCLUSION

Council has publicly exhibited the Draft Procurement Policy, Draft Statement of Business Ethics and Draft Fraud and Corruption Control Policy and received no submissions. The policies are now recommended for adoption along with the Code of Meeting Practice and Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy, which are recommended for re-adoption. It is also recommended concurrently that Council publicly exhibit for 42 days, the Draft Code of Meeting Practice based on the recently released Model Code by the Office of Local Government.

Attachments

1. Draft Procurement Policy

2. Draft Statement of Business Ethics

3. Draft Fraud and Corruption Control Policy

4. Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy - For re-adoption (Interim)

5. Code of Meeting Practice - For re-adoption (Interim)

6. Draft Code of Meeting Practice - Based on 2025 New Model Code - For Exhibition

7. The Model Code of Meeting Practice for Local Councils in NSW 2025

8. Circular to Councils - Model Meeting Code 2025

9. Model Meeting Code 2025 - FAQ

Council Meeting

24 September 2025

Item No: C09/25-186

Draft Children and Families Strategy 2026 - 2030

Directorate: Community and Culture

Responsible Officer: Director Community and Culture

Community Strategic Plan Goal: Supporting Community Health, Safety and Wellbeing

Summary

The Draft Children and Families Strategy 2026 – 2030 has been developed to provide a clear direction for Council over the next four years to support outcomes for children and families in Cumberland.

This report recommends that the Draft Children and Families Strategy 2026 – 2030 be placed on public exhibition for consultation with the community.

Recommendation

That Council place the Draft Children and Families Strategy 2026 – 2030 on public exhibition for a period of 28 days, with a report to be provided back to Council following the conclusion of the exhibition period.

Report

The Draft Cumberland Children and Families Strategy 2026 – 2030 outlines a clear, strategic framework for Council and local children’s services over the next four years. It outlines a vision for delivering improved outcomes for children and building a dynamic, inclusive community enriched with opportunity.

Cumberland’s population is projected to grow by 30% over the next 20 years reaching an estimated 340,122 people by 2046 (Forcast.id, 2021). A notable increase in families with dependent children underscores the need for forward-looking, responsive service delivery.

Developed through an evidence-informed, collaborative planning process, the Draft Strategy articulates key themes, priorities, and actions to meet the evolving needs, interests, and aspirations of children and families across the region. It serves as a cornerstone for Council’s ongoing investment in child-focused programs, infrastructure, and services.

Development of the Draft Strategy involved the following:

1. Evaluation of the Children and Families Strategy 2019 – 2023 with key recommendations on future priorities.

2. Extensive policy and literature review of local, state and national frameworks.

3. Robust Community engagement:

· 20 consultations with community

· 83 Child and Families Survey responses

· Feedback from 121 parents/guardians and 59 children on Council initiatives

· 234 families identifying priority areas

· 377 children illustrating what makes them feel happy, heathy and safe

· Input from 44 industry professionals and eight Council staff.

The Strategy identifies four key priority areas that will inform Council planning, programming, and service delivery:

1. Access and Wellness – ensuring equitable access to programs and resource that promote wellbeing and development of Cumberland’s children and families.

2. Safety and Protection – fostering a secure and nurturing Cumberland for children, with a strong emphasis on child protection, taking active measure to prevent and reduce harm.

3. Learning and Development – empowering children and families to actively develop and refine essential skills, fostering continuous learning and development.

4. Connection and Engagement – strengthening children and families' connection to their community, fostering meaningful engagement and active participation with Cumberland’s places.

A total of 13 strategies and 41 actions have been developed under the four priority areas for implementation by Council over the next four years.

Implementation of the Draft Children and Families Strategy 2026 – 2030 has been incorporated into Council’s Operational Plan. Several key projects are currently underway and a detailed evaluation process to support the implementation of the Draft Strategy will also be undertaken. Progress against the Strategy will be reported to Council as part of Council’s Corporate Planning and Reporting Framework.

Community Engagement

The Draft Children and Families Strategy 2026 – 2030 will be placed on public exhibition for a period of 28 days to enable the community to have an opportunity for further input.

During the public exhibition period, the following actions and additional community engagement activities will be undertaken:

· The Draft Strategy will be distributed to families and key stakeholders who participated in the engagement process to seek additional feedback and comment.

· The Draft Strategy will be made available on the Council website, ‘Have Your Say’ community engagement site and at Council libraries, staffed community centres and Council’s customer service centres.

· Promotion of the public exhibition period via Council’s social media channels and distribution of media releases to local papers.

· The Draft Strategy will also be distributed through community networks, including at relevant advisory committee and interagency meetings.

Policy Implications

Actions in the Draft Children and Families Strategy 2026 – 2030 align with and support the implementation of Council’s Child Protection Framework.

Risk Implications

There are no risk implications for Council associated with this report.

Financial Implications

There are no financial implications for Council associated with this report.

CONCLUSION

The Draft Cumberland Children and Families Strategy 2026 – 2030 provides a targeted, strategic framework to guide the planning and delivery of services, programs, and initiatives that promote the wellbeing, safety, and development of children and families across Cumberland. It outlines Council’s leadership role in fostering inclusive, supportive, and opportunity-rich environments for local families over the next four years.

A key focus throughout the development of the Strategy has been ensuring Council's planning is responsive to the communities projected growth and changing demographics. Reflecting Council’s commitment to a holistic, child-centred approach to service design and community building.

In implementing this Strategy, Council’s role will be to lead, support and strengthen the important work and initiatives at the local level that consider the needs of Cumberland’s youngest residents front and centre. This report recommends that the Draft Children and Families Strategy 2026 – 2030 be placed on public exhibition for a period of 28 days for consultation with the community.

Attachments

1. Cumberland Children and Families Strategy 2019 - 2023 Evaluation Report

2. Draft Children and Families Strategy 2026 - 2030

Council Meeting

24 September 2025

Item No: C09/25-187

25 Hampden Road, South Wentworthville – Voluntary Planning Agreement

Directorate: Environment and Planning

Responsible Officer: Director Environment & Planning

Community Strategic Plan Goal: Enhancing the Natural and Built Environment

Summary

The subject site at 25 Hampden Road, South Wentworthville (Lot 13 in Deposited Plan 13012) benefits from development consent (DA2023/0705) approving the construction of a two storey, 100 place centre-based child care facility with basement parking for 25 vehicles and associated landscaping and stormwater works.

At the Council meeting of 20 March 2024, Council provided in-principle endorsement of a Letter of Offer to enter into a Planning Agreement which was related to the Development Application for the subject site. The Letter of Offer proposed the dedication of a portion of the land at no cost to Council. The land is identified in the Cumberland Development Control Plan (DCP) 2021 Part F1-11 Hereford Place, Wentworthville, as required for the purposes of extending an existing local road (Hereford Place) to provide alternative vehicular access at the rear to properties with frontage to Cumberland Highway and Hampden Road, Wentworthville.

Following Council’s resolution and determination of the Development Application, which included a condition of consent for a Voluntary Planning Agreement to be prepared to cover the land dedication, a draft Voluntary Planning Agreement has been prepared for consideration by Council. It is recommended that Council endorses the draft Voluntary Planning Agreement, and that the draft agreement be placed on public exhibition for a period of 28 days in accordance with legislative and policy requirements. It is also recommended that Council endorse the finalisation of the Voluntary Planning Agreement and delegate the General Manager to finalise and execute the Voluntary Planning Agreement, subject to no significant objections arising from public exhibition.

Recommendation

That Council:

1. Endorse the draft Voluntary Planning Agreement prepared for 25 Hampden Road, South Wentworthville, and that the draft agreement be publicly exhibited for a period of 28 days in accordance with legislative and policy requirements; and

2. Delegate authority to the General Manager to finalise and execute the Voluntary Planning Agreement on behalf of Council for 25 Hampden Road, South Wentworthville, subject to no significant objections on the draft agreement arising from public exhibition.

Report

Context

Council approved DA2023/0705 for 25 Hampden Road, South Wentworthville (Lot 13 in Deposited Plan 13012) as shown in Figure 1 to construct a two storey, 100 place centre-based child care facility with basement parking for 25 vehicles and associated landscaping and stormwater works.

A aerial view of a neighborhood

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Figure 1: Subject Site

At the Council meeting of 20 March 2024, Council provided in-principle endorsement of a Letter of Offer associated with the Development Application for subject site which proposed the dedication of a portion of the land at no cost to Council. This endorsement was considered in the assessment and determination of the Development Application, with a condition of consent included for a Voluntary Planning Agreement to be prepared to cover this matter.

Following Council’s resolution and determination of the Development Application, a draft Voluntary Planning Agreement has been prepared for consideration by Council. The draft Planning Agreement includes the public benefit offer previously endorsed by Council and is consistent with the Cumberland Planning Agreements Policy and Guideline.

Public Benefit and DCP Requirement

The dedication of land for the extension of a public road is consistent with the Cumberland Planning Agreements Policy, as it would provide a public benefit through land dedication that would enable Council to construct an extension to an existing public road that is identified in local planning controls.

The future public road which requires a portion of the site is identified in the Cumberland DCP 2021 (Part F1-11 Hereford Place, Wentworthville) as shown in Figure 2 below.

A map of a lot

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Figure 2: Land subject to land dedication in Cumberland DCP 2021 (Part F1-11) Hereford Place, Wentworthville)

As per the Cumberland DCP 2021, the land is required to be dedicated for the development of medium density residential, which will require adequate local road access. Given that half of the properties within this precinct have vehicular access only from the Cumberland Highway (also known as Jersey Road), the provision of alternative vehicular access to these properties is required to facilitate satisfactory access to development and minimise traffic conflicts on the Cumberland Highway.

Next Steps

Subject to Council’s endorsement of the draft Voluntary Planning Agreement, the draft Voluntary Planning Agreement shall be placed on public exhibition for a period of 28 days in accordance with legislative and policy requirements. It is recommended that Council endorse the finalisation of the Voluntary Planning Agreement and delegate the General Manager to finalise and execute the Voluntary Planning Agreement, subject to no significant objections arising from public exhibition.

Community Engagement

Subject to endorsement, the draft Voluntary Planning Agreement will be publicly exhibited for a period of 28 days in accordance with legislative and policy requirements.

Policy Implications

Policy implications for Council are outlined in the main body of this report.

Risk Implications

There are minimal risk implications for Council associated with this report.

Financial Implications

There are no financial implications for Council associated with this report.

CONCLUSION

A draft Voluntary Planning Agreement has been negotiated for 25 Hampden Road, South Wentworthville (Lot 13 in Deposited Plan 13012) for the dedication of a portion of the land at no cost to Council. It is recommended that Council endorse the draft Voluntary Planning Agreement for public exhibition and to delegate the execution of the document to the General Manager.

Attachments

1. Draft Voluntary Planning Agreement

Council Meeting

24 September 2025

Item No: C09/25-188

Draft Submission - Proposal for a New Crown Cemetery at Carnarvon Golf Course

Directorate: Environment and Planning

Responsible Officer: Director Environment & Planning

Community Strategic Plan Goal: Enhancing the Natural and Built Environment

Summary

This report provides a response to the Notice of Motion – Matter of Urgency - Carnarvon Golf Course resolved at the Ordinary Meeting of Council on 27 August 2025 (Min.1017).

On 19 August 2025, Metropolitan Memorial Parks (MMP) commenced public consultation on the proposal for a new Crown cemetery on the site of Carnarvon Golf Course, located at 65-95 Nottinghill Road, Lidcombe. Council staff have considered the exhibition material, Council-endorsed strategies and the Parliament of NSW’s report on the Statutory Review of the Cemeteries and Crematoria Act 2013 entitled 'The 11th Hour’ and prepared a draft submission to MMP (Attachment 1).

The draft submission objects to the proposal to repurpose Carnarvon Golf Course into a new Crown cemetery, and outlines a number of concerns regarding the proposal. It is recommended that the draft submissions be endorsed and forwarded to MMP for consideration. The submission must be submitted to MMP by 19 October 2025.

Recommendation

That Council:

1. Endorse the draft submission to Metropolitan Memorial Parks on the proposal for a new Crown cemetery on the site of Carnarvon Golf Course at Attachment 1 and forward to Metropolitan Memorial Parks for consideration; and

2. Delegate authority to the General Manager to finalise the draft submission, including minor typographical changes.

Report

Background

At the Council Meeting of 26 February 2025, Council resolved the following (Min 872, C02/25-60):

“That Council:

1. Confirms its strong opposition to any proposal to repurpose the Carnarvon Golf Course for non-recreational use, including its potential conversion into a cemetery or any other uses that diminish its current function. With growing pressure to reduce golf courses in size, as seen with Moore Park, any loss of green space at Carnarvon—whether through partial or full repurposing—would be a significant blow to the community and the local environment.

2. Acknowledges the importance of Carnarvon Golf Course as a vital green space that serves as a sporting and recreational facility critical to the health and well-being of the community, while also providing significant environmental benefits, such as mitigating the urban heat island effect and cooling the surrounding urban environment.

3. Writes to the Hon. Steve Kamper MP, Minister for Lands and Property, and the Hon. Paul Scully MP, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, to express the Council’s opposition to the repurposing of Carnarvon Golf Course and request that it be protected as a key community asset; and

4. Actively supports the campaign to protect Carnarvon Golf Course, in partnership with Auburn MP Lynda Voltz, including:

· Sharing campaign materials and petition details through the Council’s communication channels.

· Encouraging community participation through the Council’s social media platforms, newsletters, and public forums.

· Preparing and installing banners in high-traffic areas near the golf course, including the corner of Amy Street and Joseph Street, to raise awareness and garner community support.

· Engaging with relevant stakeholders, such as Golf Australia, local sporting clubs, and community organisations, to strengthen the campaign by raising awareness of the threats to the course and mobilising community support to ensure its preservation.”

On 19 August 2025, Metropolitan Memorial Parks (MMP) commenced public consultation on the proposal for a new Crown cemetery on the site of Carnarvon Golf Course. Noting the current public consultation period, Council resolved at the Ordinary Meeting of 27 August 2025 (Min 1017):

“That the General Manager take necessary action to develop a submission on behalf of Cumberland Council opposing the creation of a cemetery on the site of Carnarvon Golf Course and Coleman Park so as to satisfy the timeline for consultation as now established by the NSW Government.”

Submissions are due by 19 October 2025, and feedback from the consultation will be used to inform the Minister for Lands and the NSW Government to make a decision on the proposal.

Draft submission

Following Council’s resolutions on the proposal for a new cemetery at Carnarvon Golf Course, a draft submission has been prepared by Council officers for consideration by Council, as provided in Attachment 1. The submission outlines Council’s objection to the proposal, and outlines a range of concerns regarding the proposal, as outlined below. It is recommended that Council endorse the draft submission to Metropolitan Memorial Parks on the proposal for a new Crown cemetery on the site of Carnarvon Golf Course and forward to Metropolitan Memorial Parks for consideration.

Lack of alignment with strategic direction for cemetery planning in NSW

The Parliament of NSW’s report on the Statutory Review of the Cemeteries and Crematoria Act 2013 entitled 'The 11th Hour’, highlights the need for the new cemetery land to aid in the current burial space shortage, however, notes that new cemeteries should not be acquired and developed in such a ‘disparate, non-strategic manner.’ Council supports the Review’s recommendation that the NSW Government incorporate new cemeteries into its overall strategic infrastructure planning, however, notes that the decision to nominate Carnarvon Golf Course, a large parcel of public recreational land, adjacent to a transport oriented development (TOD) precinct, as a suitable site for a Crown cemetery, will lead to poor planning outcomes.

Limitations on community engagement and consultation on the proposal

MMP was tasked to review existing Crown land for repurposing and any other options for how to deliver a significant expansion of accessible burial space in Sydney; however, no further options were presented in this instance. Consultation material notes that an extensive evaluation process was undertaken, but no detail has been provided on this body of work nor are there any ongoing consultations on other potential sites in Sydney.

Loss of a key community asset and public open space

Carnarvon Golf Course accounts for almost 43ha of public recreational land servicing residents of Berala and surrounds. The loss of this valued community asset and large parcel of public recreational land contradicts the objectives of a well-planned, higher density precinct and risks poor planning outcomes for the present and future community of Berala.

No consideration of cultural sensitivities of the proposal on our diverse community

Berala is a suburb with a diverse demographic makeup, with a high proportion of residents of Chinese ancestry, and a significant number of residents born overseas. Council expresses concern over the establishment of a new Crown cemetery in a suburb where residents may have cultural reservations around living in proximity to a cemetery. Council believes the location is not appropriate for the use of a cemetery and advocates for an alternative site that better considers the cultural sensitivities and values of the local community.

Incompatibility of a new cemetery near an area identified by the NSW Government as a transport orientated development precinct earmarked for significant housing growth

Council raises concern over the lack of consideration of the NSW Government’s housing reforms affecting Berala, including the Transport Oriented Development (TOD) program and Low-Mid Rise (LMR) housing policy, and how the scale of future redevelopment in the precinct would impact the suitability of Carnarvon Golf Course as a location for a new Crown cemetery.

Following the finalisation of new TOD and LMR controls for Berala, the NSW Government announced that the precinct is set to receive over 9,200 new homes over the next 15 years. The TOD extent is located merely 130m from Carnarvon Golf Course, with the LMR extent capturing properties directly opposite the golf course. Proximity of a Crown cemetery to areas with such anticipated growth puts strain on existing community and social infrastructure present in and around the precinct, including recreational and sporting facilities. This is exacerbated with the reduction of open space for the precinct as envisage under the Crown cemetery proposal.

Inconsistency with adopted Council strategies being implemented

Several Council strategies reference priorities and directions that highlight the importance of preserving public recreational sporting facilities and open space in Cumberland, including Cumberland Open Space and Recreation Strategy 2019-2029 and Cumberland Community Wellbeing Report 2021. The proposal takes away from the directions mentioned above and Council expresses concern over its inconsistency with these adopted strategies that care currently being implemented by Council.

Community Engagement

The proposal is currently on public exhibition by the NSW Government from 19 August 2025 to 19 October 2025.

Policy Implications

Policy implications on the proposal are outlined in the submission provided in this report.

Risk Implications

There are no risk implications for Council associated with this report.

Financial Implications

There are no financial implications for Council associated with this report.

CONCLUSION

This report provides an overview of Council’s draft submission on Metropolitan Memorial Parks proposal for a new Crown cemetery on the site of Carnarvon Golf Course, and outlines the key concerns identified by Council officers. It is recommended that Council endorse the draft submission and forward to Metropolitan Memorial Parks for consideration.

Attachments

1. Draft Submission

Council Meeting

24 September 2025