Agenda Ordinary Meeting of Council
Agenda Ordinary Meeting of Council
Agenda Ordinary Meeting of Council
VENUE:
Council Chambers
Yarriambiack Shire Council
34 Lyle Street, Warracknabeal Vic 3393
Next Meeting
Wednesday 22 July 2020
Copies of the Yarriambiack Shire Council’s Agendas and Minutes
can be obtained online at www.yarriambiack.vic.gov.au
Agenda
OUR VISION:
In consultation with our community, Yarriambiack Shire Council aims to provide a viable,
sustainable and vibrant future.
OUR VALUES:
Customer Service
• treat our customers with courtesy and respect
• lead and develop leadership within our community
• constantly strive to improve our services
• forge closer relationships with customers
• investigate matters thoroughly and objectively and keep our customers informed,
in plain language, about the process and outcome
• treat people fairly, with respect and have proper regard for their rights
• make decisions lawfully, fairly, impartially and in the public interest
• we are honest, trustworthy, reliable, transparent and accountable in our dealings
• we are careful, conscientious and diligent
• use public resources economically and efficiently
• actively pursue positive outcomes for the community
CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT:
Contents
1. WELCOME .................................................................................................. 5
2. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT & PRAYER................................................................ 5
3. PRESENT ................................................................................................... 5
4. APOLOGIES OR REQUEST FOR LEAVE OF ABSENCE .................................... 5
5. CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES .................................................................... 5
6. DECLARATION OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST ............................................. 10
7. BUSINESS ARISING ................................................................................ 11
7.1 Ongoing and Pending Action List ............................................................... 11
8. PETITIONS .............................................................................................. 11
9. CORRESPONDENCE.................................................................................. 11
10. SPECIAL COMMITTEES ............................................................................ 12
10.1 Audit and Risk Committee ..................................................................... 12
10.2 Woomelang Retirement Units General Meeting Minutes ............................. 16
10.3 Murtoa Progress Association Committee Meeting Minutes .......................... 20
11. ACTIVITY REPORTS ................................................................................. 24
11.1 Mayor’s Report - Prepared by Graeme Massey ....................................... 24
11.2 Councillor’s Reports .............................................................................. 25
11.3 Chief Executive Officer Report - Prepared by Jessie Holmes ..................... 27
11.4 Director of Assets and Operations - Prepared by Mick Evans .................... 28
11.5 Director community Development and Wellbeing - Prepared by Gavin Blinman
......................................................................................................... 31
11.6 Director Business Strategy and Performance - Prepared by Tammy Smith . 37
12. REPORTS FOR DECISION ......................................................................... 39
12.1 Finance Report May - Prepared by Anita McFarlane ................................ 39
12.2 Revenue Report - Prepared by Chantelle Pitt ......................................... 49
12.3 Capital Works Program 2019/2020 (June) - Prepared by Joel Turner ........ 54
12.4 Permits issued by Council - June 2020 .................................................. 63
12.5 Adoption of 2020/2021 Budget and Declaration of Rates and Charges –
prepared by Anita McFarlane ............................................................................. 64
12.6 Affixing Council Seal to National Australia Bank Document - Prepared by Anita
McFarlane ..................................................................................................... 135
12.7 Council Expense Policy - Prepared by Tammy Smith ............................. 142
12.8 Information Communication Technology Acceptable Use Policy - Prepared by
Tammy Smith ................................................................................................ 154
12.9 Rescind Community Assets Policy 2006 - Prepared by Gavin Blinman ..... 170
12.10 Rescind Housing Policy 1998 - Prepared by Gavin Blinman .................... 177
1. WELCOME
Prayer
Almighty God, without whom no Council can stand nor anything prosper we ask that you
be present and guide us in our deliberations today. We pray that we will be fair in our
judgements and wise in our actions and that decisions will be made with goodwill and a
clear conscience for the betterment and welfare of the people of Yarriambiack Shire.
Amen
3. PRESENT
5. CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
Minutes of the Ordinary Council Meeting of 27 May 2020
The following items were considered at the ordinary Council Meeting held on
Wednesday 27 May 2020
Recommendation:
That the minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on Wednesday 27 May 2020,
as circulated, be taken as read and confirmed.
Recommendation:
That Council accept the Non Finance Performance Reporting as attached. CARRIED
13.17 Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Programme (HVSPP) and Bridge
Renewal Programme (BRP) Grant Application
Recommendation:
That Council;
1. Approve the submission of an application under the Heavy Vehicle Safety and
Productivity Program and Bridge Renewal Program for projects listed in table above.
2. Approve the matching funding in the 2020/2021 Capital Works Budget for $ 644,000,
should the application be successful. CARRIED
The following items were considered at the Closed Council Meeting held on 27 May 2020
Recommendation:
That the minutes of the Closed Meeting of Council held on Wednesday 27 May 2020, as
circulated, be taken as read and confirmed.
A Councillor who has declared a conflict of interest, must leave the meeting and
remain outside the room while the matter is being considered, or any vote is taken.
7. BUSINESS ARISING
7.1 Ongoing and Pending Action List
8. PETITIONS
Nil
9. CORRESPONDENCE
Recommendation:
That the minutes of the Audie and Risk Committee meeting held 25 August 2020, as
circulated, be taken as read and confirmed.
4) MINUTES
Minutes of previous meeting held on the 16th March 2020 confirmed.
Moved: Diane Connolly
Seconded: Martin Moynihan
5) BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE PREVIOUS MEETING
6.1 Past Issues Review – Cost Management and Heavy Vehicles
Internal audit report is attached in the Audit and Risk Committee Agenda dated 25
May 2020.
• Brad mentioned plant charge rates justification.
• Martin asked about financial reporting and if we will have the ability to report
detailed actual vs budget. Tammy described the new software packages being
implemented and the ability to create such reports in the Calxa Budget Software
package.
• Martin asked about plant list and previously reported missing equipment. All plant
is now going to be recorded in Asset Finda and the new Student Design Engineer
is assisting to undertake the reconciliation and set of up of the system.
Items to be closed. 3.3 3.9 3.8 & 3.5
Moved: Martin Moynihan
Seconded: Diane Connolly
6.2 COVID 19 - Update
• Two staff redeployed to kinder cleaning.
• Funding provided, no staff stood down.
• We estimate a savings on fuel.
• Received funding for meals on wheels. We have reduced meals rates and see
an increase in the numbers of meals provided.
The Report and Policy was presented as part of the Audit and Risk Committee Agenda
dated 25 May 2020.
The Report was Accepted by the Audit and Risk Committee.
Moved: Martin Moynihan
Seconded: Kylie Zanker
11.3 Procurement Policy
The Report, Policy and Manual was presented as part of the Audit and Risk
Committee Agenda dated 25 May 2020.
• Tammy and Jessie mentioned council being proactive in collective bargaining,
training, projects joint tenders.
• Going forward with new software system a purchase order will be required for
all purchases.
• The financial delegations will change with the aim for budgets to be
monitored more effectively. Greater ownership and oversight.
• Council is looking to engage a provider to create our own online procurement
training package.
• Policy item number 7.3 to be removed. Threshold to be reviewed in six
months.
The Report was Accepted by the Audit and Risk Committee.
Moved: Jean Wise
Seconded: Kylie Zanker
11.4 Rating Strategy and Supporting Policy
The Report, Strategy, Policy and Forms were presented as part of the Audit and Risk
Committee Agenda dated 25 May 2020.
• Section included in Strategy to address recommended Audit action.
• It is anticipated that we will have better data in the next 12 months re:
landfill / costs etc.
• New agency been appointed “Collect au” for debt recovery. Been very
proactive to date.
The Report was Accepted by the Audit and Risk Committee.
Moved: Diane Connolly
Seconded: Martin Moynihan
11.5 Public Interest Disclosure Policy
The Report, Policy and Procedure were presented as part of the Audit and Risk
Committee Agenda dated 25 May 2020.
• Martin raised the question regarding fraud. Should staff / the public be able
to approach the Audit and Risk Committee Chair to report and disclose.
The Report was Accepted by the Audit and Risk Committee with the recommendation
to include the disclosure to the Audit and Risk Committee Chairperson.
Moved: Jean Wise
Seconded: Kylie Zanker
Recommendation:
That the minutes of the Woomelang Retirement Unit General Meeting minutes held on
4 June 2020, as circulated, be taken as read and confirmed.
Due to COVID 19 Social distancing regulations were put in place to ensure everyone’s
safety allowing 4mtrs per person.
Welcome – President Rick welcomed everyone and thanked them for their attendance
especially CEO YSC Jessie Holmes, Marianne Ferguson - Manager of Community
Development and Gavin Blinman Director Community Development & Wellbeing.
Present – Jessie Holmes, Marianne Ferguson, Gavin Blinman, Brydie Kelly, Hazel Boxall,
Barbara Beach, Pat Marshall, Joe Collins, Grant Alday, Sharon Gallagher, Gwen Michael,
Karen Adcock, Rick Johnson, Gwenyth Barbary, Mark Burt, Wendy Reece, Thelma Adcock,
Don Collins.
Apologies – Melanie Kelly, Grant Kelly, Monica Outen.
Moved Brydie Second Don
• Dead tree on Gloucester Ave – Rick has contacted Vic Roads several times in
various ways and has contacted them again and forwarded the OT report from
November
• last year (that we didn’t receive until February 2020) to them and they have told
him they will have a reply to him within 7 days. Jessie said YSC will contact VIC
Roads and see if they have any more luck.
Correspondence –
• Invoice from BNC for Barb from Unit 2 stay while major plumbing and concreting
issue was completed in her bathroom (Barb needed accommodation while repairs
were being done so RU (Retirement Units) rented the residence at BNC at no cost
to Barb.
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Treasurers report –
1/9/19 TO 31/5/20
RECEIPTS EXPENDITURE
$63,478.04 $63,478.04
1/9/19 TO 31/5/20
RECEIPTS EXPENDITURE
1/9/19
$1,685.70 $1,685.70
Darrell queried Karen about the water bill being so high. Karen said it was for the period
September 2019 to May 2020 and that it was about the usual amount.
Treasures report moved: Karen Second: Darrell
Tennant Report – Sharon reported
Unit 1 – Issue with screws on the sliding door, Rick has been looking into this and will
continue to source screws.
Unit 1 - Pump – Sharon got Stewart Crow to look at it, he said leaking tap. Sharon then
contacted Col Durie and he has replaced washers in the pump which has solved the
problem.
Unit 2 – Plans are underway to replace floor coverings in bathroom after major works and
concrete has had time to cure. Resident from Unit 2 commented on the length of time it
has
taken to get the job completed. Gwenyth explained that the plumber that was initially paid
to do the job had not completed the job correctly and could not be contacted, this was
when Col Durie Plumbing fixed the problem. Much tanks to YSC Gavin Blinman for
assistance with solving this issue.
Unit 2 – The artificial turf in the back yard of this unit is unsatisfactory and needs to be
laid properly. Brydie to contact a landscaper to quote on the area.
Unit 3 - Veranda Post repaired -Garry YSC
Unit 4 – Artificial turf is uneven and needs attention -Brydie
General maintenance – Gary YSC needs to come and complete maintenance. Gavin said
he has had surgery but will be back at work part time soon.
General Business.
1) Marianne Ferguson is now the YSC contact for anything related to the Retirement Units
2) Ben from YSC came to do an evaluation of the units
3) CEO Jessie Holmes, Yarriambiack Shire CEO brought us up to date with the latest situation
of the Units.
Initially YSC were keen to hand ownership back to the community/committee, however due
wording in the agreement YSC would have to pay back $130,000 to the Government as this
was where the original funding for building the units came from some 30 years ago.
Jessie discussed ownership of the Units and new Government Act that has come in as of March
2020.
As the section 86 sub. Committee of council no longer exists the Retirement Units Committee
have a couple of options (a) Community Housing Co-operative or (b) Shire Council Assets
Committee – Delegated Committee of Council.
A) Community Housing Co-operative - the committee would lose control of the units -
This was discussed and is not what we want and was dismissed. It is important that the
Units Committee keep their autonomy.
A decision needs to be made by 1st September 2020. YSC are still receiving information
about Gov. changes and will keep us posted. At this stage option (b) is our preferred option.
4) Jessie spoke about the possibility building new units on Shire property at 37 Brock
Street.
Finer points of building can be discussed in due course, but we have some options. Jessie
spoke of 2x2 Bedroom units with a carport with a possibility of 1x1 bedroom if there was
room taking into the consideration of the area needed for the septic system. Tim Rose
from Shire to advise on the situation. Gavin to send some plans of units recently built in
the YSC to Brydie.
Funding options for building these units:
Grant funding -Mez is sitting in on a webinar on 5/6/20 regarding funding for public
housing. She will come back to RU Committee with the outcome from the webinar.
Borrow Funds -Money could be borrowed against assets we have. YSC could organise a
business case and would underwrite the loan.
Motion moved that the committee will come back to reconvene to discuss building 2-3 units
when YSC get more information regarding funding options.
Moved Brydie Second Mark
4) Discussion took place regarding the written report from the Occupational Therapist and
it was decided to have a landscaper look at the paving, the pathways etc in conjunction
with the report from the O.T. and to give a quote. Brydie Kelly to organize. Brydie to email
Mez the report.
5) Hazel mentioned fruit trees that need pruning. It was decided to call a Working Bee
for Friday the 12th of June at 3 pm to prune the fruit trees and cutback shrubs etc. Brydie
to send out a reminder next week, make a list of jobs that need to be attended to, print
poster for notice board and put it on WWO fb page.
6) Jessie updated committee on 26 Gloucester Av (Watts house). This has been moved
up the debt collection list and is in the next 5 properties to be attended to. Jessie has
viewed the property and is fully aware of the risk that it poses to residents in the RU.
Recommendation:
That the minutes of the Murtoa Progress Association Committee Meeting minutes held
on 16 June 2020, as circulated, be taken as read and confirmed.
MINUTES
1. Welcome and Apologies
President M. Keel opened the meeting with a Recognition of Country and welcomed all
present.
Present by Video/Teleconference: M. Keel, T. Tyler, G. Adams, D. Grigg and K. Clegg
In Attendance: G. Blinman (YSC), Cr. T. Hamilton (YSC), Mick Newell (Murtoa)
Apologies: R. Dumesny, P. Kosch, C. Heinz (YSC)
2. Correspondence
• Inwards
o Ken Haby Thank You Letter: Response to letter of appreciation for Advertiser
volunteers. Ken Haby enjoys recording weather & rainfall, which is an important
global matter.
o Drought Funding – Round II. Financial issue for Murtoa Showyards Committee,
$6,000 underfunded. Raised to YSC, no outcome. Local follow up.
o Drought Funding – Round III with Lake Committee of Management on next
steps.
o Murtoa Website Enquiry: Family history and planned visit to Murtoa. Forwarded
to Murtoa & District Historical Society.
o Yarriambiack Weekly Updates
• Outwards
o Community Action Plan – Annual Project Review: Invitation to community clubs
via Email, Advertiser to encourage residents to provide input to projects.
o Basketball Public Half Court Project: Lake CoM, Tennis Club, YSC (GB). YSC
forwarded to Sports & Rec staff member.
o Murtoa Cabins on Lake Marma: Determination on resuming opening cabins,
cleaning requirements, safety messaging, etc. Announcements on re-open date
as of 1 June 2020.
o Murtoa Facebook Updates
3. Reports
a) Treasurer Report
Treasurer Terry Tyler reported on the financials for the Murtoa Progress Association as of
16 June 2020. Bank account balances:
Blight Account: $ 5,191.99
General Account: $ 1,135.70
Murtoa Events Account: $ 16,760.78
Advertiser: $ 7,249.59
Online Saver: $ 2,474.13
Community Units: $ 15,721.37. Investment Account: $ 225,277.78
Treasurer’s Report Moved by Terry Tyler and Seconded by Graeme Adams.
e) Murtoa Events
o Murtoa Twilight in November: Decision to continue will be made in July/August
pending COVID-19 prevention measures.
4. General Business
Rail Transport to Western Victoria: Pam Kosch has written several letters to
Ministers and rail representatives. A meeting on Friday, 19 June, will be with
interested parties on rail for Victoria and South Australia. Graeme Adams and
Pam Kosch will attend via video link.
Library progress with new Facebook Page. G. Adams hoped for communication
soon on how to proceed with using the library services, including in the
Advertiser. T. Hamilton excited about library opening and encourage everyone
to get a library card to support the service.
Murtoa community events:
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o Murtoa Big Weekend not running this year noted by T. Hamilton looking forward
to 2021.
o Murtoa Cup going ahead, which is great for community to get together.
o The Stick Shed open from 22 June 2020.
Flags on flag polls at Lak Marma: 4 polls at Lake Marma Reserve. MPA to a
competition to create Murtoa Flag and MPA apply for flag replacements for
Australia, Victoria and Aboriginal flag - Moved by David Grigg and Seconded by
Terry Tyler. Need to determine order of how to fly them.
Issues around town:
o Hamilton Street – west side, blue metal placed for footpath, going to be covered
with quarry dust. No high heels suitable. Suggested this be lodged with YSC
info email.
o Corner of Hamilton Street and Marma Street, ute on nature strip for 3 months
and car in front for 3v months and not moved. If registered vehicles, nothing
can be done under Local Laws. No parking regulations on timeframe.
Murtoa Butcher, Kevin King retiring: 15 years service - great supporter of
community groups. A new butcher to commence form start of July. MPA will
present Kevin with a framed photo of Murtoa Lake and letter of appreciation.
From this point any leaving business point be presented with a small token of
appreciation - Moved by David Grigg and Seconded Graeme Adams.
New businesses: Welcome letter to new businesses to Murtoa from the Murtoa
Progress Association.
5. Meeting Close
Meeting closed at 9:00pm. The next meeting of the Murtoa Progress Association will
be on Tuesday, 21 July in the Mechanics Hall Supper Rooms at 7:30pm.
SUMMARY OF ACTIONS
Issue Action Responsibility
Drought Round Letter K Clegg
II
Kevin King Letter of appreciation K Clegg
Framed photograph of Lake Marma M Keel
Rail meeting Attend online discussion G Adams & P Kosch
Basketball Follow up for response from YSC Sports & K Clegg
court project Rec Officer
Flags Seek flag replacements K Clegg
Competition for new Murtoa flag image
4 June Attended meeting with Anne Webster MP, MHR and Woodbine Board
5 June Attended via Zoom Wimmera Development Association Meeting with media
and Mayors
Cr H Ballentine
On Leave
Cr K Zanker
25 May Attended Internal Audit Committee Meeting
1 June Attended Share Your Care Meeting re: foster Care Champion
Cr T Hamilton
3 June Attended via Zoom Council Pipeline Projects Meeting
Cr S Roberts
4 June Attended Historical Association Meeting
Cr J Wise
27 May Attended Council Meeting
Cr C Heintze
3 June Attended via Zoom SPAMWAG list discussion
9 June Attended via Zoom GCWWRRC Board meeting to meet Rowena Morrow
Nhill-Yanac Edges
National Highway Upgrade program- $60 million has been committed to upgrade the
Western Highway between Stawell and the South Australian border as part of the federal
Roads of Strategic Importance (ROSI) program. DoT are working on a package of upgrades
that could include additional/lengthened overtaking lanes, pavement
resurfacing/rehabilitation, wide centreline barrier, bridge strengthening and intersection
improvements.
Major Road Projects Authority – Damian Van Dyke
Section 2 - Beaufort to Ararat
Duplication from Beaufort to Buangor and Buangor Bypass
Works between Beaufort and Buangor and on the Buangor Bypass are now complete.
Beaufort Rail Bridge Strengthening
A contract for the rail bridge strengthening west of Beaufort was completed in August
2018.
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$30,000 will assist in the preparation of maps, new Schedules to the Land Subject to
Inundation and Floodway Overlay for both the Dunmunkle and Yarriambiack Creeks and
to assist in any Planning Panel hearings that may be required.
The projects approved for the 2019 Drought Communities funding are on track to be
completed by their due date of 30 June 2020. Out of the 18 projects, 14 are complete, 2
are complete and waiting on handover from the contractor, and 2 are scheduled to be
complete by 30 June.
Assets- Ram Upadhyaya
Council has been in discussions with the EPA on Warracknabeal Landfill decommissioning
and are waiting for responses to some queries. After investigations into what Council has
to complete for the capping process, it is looking likely that Council will have to engage
consultants to be able to meet the EPA requirement. This will delay the project
significantly.
Council is investigating the option of engaging a consultant / company to carry out road
condition assessments. This will involve the condition assessment of entire sealed road
network along with photographic records of sealed and unsealed (gravelled) road network.
This will assist in longer term planning as well as defence to any future disaster recovery
claims. The process to claim damage to roads as a result of an incident / event has change
and a successful claim will not occur without the supporting evidence of the existing
condition data as highlighted.
Emergency management
Council, as a required member under the new Emergency Management Act, has attended
the last two meetings of the newly formed Regional Emergency Management Planning
Committee. Under the direction of Emergency Management Victoria, new Terms of
Reference for the committee have been developed and adopted.
Council’s ongoing preparation for the Municipal Emergency Management Plan (MEMP) audit
that will be carried out by the SES on the 1st of July is continuing.
Meal Vouchers
CHSP Targets
Respite 24 35
REVIEWS COMPLETED
• 11 Reviews
EDUCATION & TRAINING
• Mandy undertook 3 days of Online Compulsory Training;
• Mandy attended the Governance Training
• Mandy continues with the Statement of Attainment: Home Support Assessor
training.
MEETINGS
• Wimmera partnership Network monthly meeting is attended via Zoom
• Regional RAS Monthly Meeting via Zoom.
Kindergartens - Glenda Hewitt
With COVID-19 restrictions being gradually reduced, Kindergartens and Early Years
services are slowly returning to normal.
The State Government announcement that children could return to school signaled a
return to Kindergarten for most children as well and consequently attendance numbers at
all Kindergartens in the Shire are almost back to pre COVID-19 numbers.
By all accounts, children were all very excited to return, as indeed I believe were many
families.
Recommendations as provided by DHHS related to maintaining a safe environment are
being quite stringently followed and at this stage, efforts are being made to ensure that
children being delivered and collected are met at the gates, thus minimising the number
of adults in the services.
During the term, it has been extremely important to maintain regular communication with
the Kindergarten community, particularly staff and families and consequently we have all
become quite expert in teleconferencing via Zoom.
Staff have been attending a range of professional learning opportunities (again via Zoom)
and some of the advantages of reduced travel have somewhat negated the lack of contact
with other professionals which is certainly a disadvantage.
Warracknabeal 3-year-old Kindergarten extension
The application for the new three-year-old Kindergarten room at Warracknabeal Children’s
Centre has been completed and delivered to DET. It is anticipated that we will receive a
response to that application during August, which will make timelines for completion of
the building tight if we are successful. It would be unlikely that the room would be
completed by the start of the school year in 2021 and negotiations will have to be entered
into with Uniting Wimmera in any circumstance.
Kindergarten IT/Software
Over the last month DWM, has been busy installing new laptops and hardware at each of
the Kindergarten services which will streamline communication. Furthermore, a new
software program has been installed in all services and in council administration, which
will streamline enrolment processes and fee payment and centralise this process in line
with DET Early Years Management System preference.
When completed, these will certainly make for a more comprehensive accounting and
communication process for administration and for families. Hopefully all systems will be
fully operational from the commencement of Term 3.
In order for us to make the transition as fluid as possible, Gavin and I have been meeting
with Parent Advisory groups to communicate changes to the financing structure for
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Kindergartens and answer any questions families have. So far the response from Parent
Advisory Groups has been excellent, with most expressing a degree of relief at not having
to deal with the financial requirements that have been implicit in Kindergartens for many
years.
Early Years Engagement Officer - Melissa Evans
Melissa has continued to find ways to work and support families in the Community despite
the obvious restrictions. Together with Kathryn, both have put together some wonderful
remote resources for children aged 1-3 and have been delivering them across the Shire to
families. The response from families has been very positive.
Engaging with families in person has been challenging, however Melissa is masterful in
finding ways to contact families and offer support, through generalised social media.
Supported Playgroup - Kathryn Camilleri
With restrictions slowly lifting I am looking to start playgroups again in term 3. Currently
waiting to hear from Graham Holmes, the P-12 principle, regarding running playgroups in
the school environment amid COVID-19. We are confident by the beginning of term 3
enough restrictions would have lifted for this to happen. If we are not able to continue to
use the school, other options in Hopetoun will be sourced. I am excited to be taking
supported playgroup to Rupanyup next term and am in the process of securing a venue
and promoting the program through MCH nurses and Kindergarten. I am also hoping to
return to home visits again next term. I have three families who are waiting until we can
begin again. Children’s week $1000 grants are open and will apply again this year.
Sport and Recreation Report – Prepared by Rebecca Botheras
Over the past few weeks the easing of COVID-19 restrictions has been a welcome relief
for the Sport and Recreation space. We have seen the recommencement of some local
sporting activities including golf, bowls, tennis, non-contact football and netball training,
and the option of many recreational activities including fishing, boating, walking groups,
playgrounds, skate parks and fitness classes. Although not all organised sporting activities
are able to resume like others, and recreational activities being controlled and limited by
set guidelines, having the opportunity to resume some sporting and recreational activities
across the Council has been very well received by community members.
However, along with the COVID-19 easing of restrictions came about many sporting and
recreational protocols, rules and regulations. Initially, the variations amongst peak body
protocols did cause some confusion, raised many question, and caused some
disappointment as to the severity of the requirements and the responsibility put on club
volunteers, but clubs have adapted to their peak body protocols smartly and are doing all
they can to operate their sport in the safest way possible. Although, it is fair to say some
sports have been hit with stronger protocols than others, which has caused some
challenges.
As part of the “Return to Sport” Protocols, Council were required to grant football/ netball
clubs with written approval before any form of non-contact training could commence. In
line with the protocols, after receiving the names of the nominated COVID Safe Officers
and the Certificates to proof that the required Infection Control Training had been
completed, council granted permission to all four clubs – Southern Mallee Giants, Warrack
Eagles, Minyip Murtoa Football Netball Club and the Rupanyup Football Netball Club to
resume training. However, a part of granting the Rupanyup Netball Club permission to
train meant finding an alternative training venue due to restrictions indicating that no
indoor venues could be utilized. In line with Netball Victoria’s training checklist, an
inspection was undertaken on the adjacent tennis courts and was deemed a suitable short
term option for the club’s netball training.
Funding News
A recent funding opportunity has become available for community sporting clubs through
the announcement of the Community Sport Sector COVID-19 Short-term Survival
Package. This short-term survival program is designed to support the ongoing operational
viability of the community sport and active recreation sector throughout the COVID-19
shutdown period and beyond, ensuring organizations are equipped to recommence the
delivery of their activities to the community following the lifting of restrictions. All clubs
across the council have been encouraged to take up this funding opportunity by applying
for the $1000 grant, with many sporting clubs already having their applications approved.
Manager Community Development - Marianne Ferguson
Wimmera Development Association (WDA) - Unearth Amazing Tourism Project
Aubrey and Areegra continue to create a Guidebook of the region. The book is based
around the Silo Art Trail and highlights local businesses and additional smaller trails and
is expected to be completed by the end of June/early July.
Additional content for the tourism website and augmented reality app have been created
by Plattar and will be released in July. Nullawil, Sea Lake, Albacutya, Goroke, Kaniva and
Serviceton Silo Art will also appear on the AR app by the end of the year (pending on when
the silos get painted). The digital content for the website will improve the Search Engine
Optimisation and user experience.
Touring Route Linkages have been developed with the Great Southern Touring Route (2yr
partnership) and an ongoing partnership with the Limestone Coast Local Government
Association. We have a two-year partnership with Trade Travel promoting our region to
Probus Groups across Australia.
A Visitor Servicing Analysis has been completed by Urban Enterprise providing
recommendations on physical and digital visitor information services across the region.
Final report to be shared in late June.
Visit Vic is hosting additional Australian Tourism Data Warehouse (ATDW) virtual workshop
for small business owners. The workshops are planned for the 7th and 14th of July.
Trading off the Tourism Trail - Building better regions fund
Wimmera Mallee Tourism are developing a tourism toolkit to provide support to small
businesses as a replacement to the Trade Fair event that was planned for 3-6th August
2020 due to COVID-19. The toolkit will include 10 videos and an information booklet plus
checklist. Industry experts will be providing this information. It will be available on the
Visit Wimmera Mallee website and digital platforms in August 2020.
Master Plans for 40 nominated towns and caravan parks are currently being completed by
TRC Tourism Consultants and Brave & Curious Urban Planners. These are due for
completion by the end of June and will enable more detailed plans/drawings/specifications
to be created.
A geo-located podcast about the towns around the Silo Art Trail is currently being created
by StoryTowns Media and will be available on multiple streaming platforms in August. You
can see a preview on their Facebook Page – Story Towns.
Yarriambiack Libraries - Whitney Kingston
Planning for the delivery of Library Services to be initiated on July 1, 2020 is continuing
with the purchase of IT/software, furniture and shelving. The Yarriambiack Libraries
Facebook Page has been created to begin promotion and awareness of the upcoming
services and also open communication with members. The Facebook Page will include
ideas for engaging young readers, story-telling sessions, general library enquiries and
book recommendations. The Facebook Page has been well received with 169 ‘Likes’. The
Library Van has arrived and will be branded in the coming weeks. A locker system will be
installed in Lascelles, Speed and Yaapeet where customers can access their orders and
use as a drop-off point for returns.
Youth - Justin Knorpp
At the time of this report, there is a Youth Action Meeting planned for 17 of June. Agenda
items will include upcoming events, Freezer and Engage funding. There is also a VicRoads
project to deliver that will see the creation of signage and banners that will highlight safety
themes.
Directorate Summary
ICT Systems
The Council’s ICT system upgrade is progressing well. It is anticipated that the new Xero
financial accounting system, the property and animal management and infringement
system along with the human resource and payroll system will be implemented by July
2020.
The records system implementation is still in the development phase and it is envisaged
will be fully implemented by September 2020.
Staff across the directorate have been actively involved in the development, training and
implementation of the new ICT programs.
Local Government Act 2020
The directorate is working through the requirements of the new act, which are required to
be implemented by 01 September 2020.
The following documents are either complete or in development to be finalised and adopted
by 01 September 2020:
Council Expense Policy – Council is required to adopt an expense policy in accordance
with s41 of the Act. This policy is a revision of a previous Council policy and forms part of
the June Council Agenda.
Governance Rules – The Governance Rules have been developed and are in the final
review stages prior to being available for community consultation. It is envisaged the
consultation process will commence in July.
Public Transparency Policy – The policy has been drafted, and is in the final review
stage before being presented at the July Council meeting for adoption.
RECOMMENDATION:
That the Finance Report as at May 2020 be received.
YTD %
May Actuals 2019/2020 Budget YTD Actuals Forecast YTD Variance Variance
Income
Asset Disposal & Fair Value Adjustments $ - $ (234,120) $ (74,857) $ (234,138) $ (159,263) 68%
Contributions, Donations & Reimbursement $ (68,893) $ (170,036) $ (474,175) $ (398,200) $ 304,139 (179%)
Government Grants & Charges $ (4,774,083) $ (12,081,283) $ (11,855,551) $ (10,690,309) $ (225,732) 2%
Interest Income $ (3,049) $ (89,199) $ (65,690) $ (102,091) $ (23,509) 26%
Rates & Charges $ 570 $ (12,513,108) $ (12,646,348) $ (12,544,753) $ 133,240 (1%)
User Charges, Fees & Fines $ (97,711) $ (1,328,133) $ (979,610) $ (1,201,687) $ (348,523) 26%
Other Income $ (10,545) $ - $ (10,545) $ - $ 10,545 0%
Income Total $ (4,953,711) $ (26,415,879) $ (26,106,776) $ (25,171,178) $ (309,103) 1%
Expenditure
Asset Disposal & Fair Value Adjustments $ - $ 348,213 $ - $ 348,213 $ 348,213 0%
Bad & Doubtful Debts $ - $ 500 $ - $ 500 $ 500 0%
Contributions & Donations $ 398 $ 790,297 $ 802,772 $ 834,752 $ (12,475) (2%)
Depreciation Amortisation & Impairment $ - $ 6,195,069 $ 300 $ 5,042,069 $ 6,194,769 100%
Employee Costs $ 966,023 $ 9,133,637 $ 8,931,555 $ 9,398,985 $ 202,082 2%
Finance Costs $ 0 $ 60,010 $ 5 $ 10 $ 60,005 100%
Materials $ 245,317 $ 6,082,874 $ 5,651,178 $ 6,574,526 $ 431,696 7%
Other Expenses $ 201,105 $ 1,451,434 $ 1,605,346 $ 1,620,170 $ (153,912) (11%)
Expenditure Total $ 1,412,843 $ 24,062,034 $ 16,991,156 $ 23,819,225 $ 7,070,878 29%
YTD %
May Actuals 2019/2020 Budget YTD Actuals Forecast YTD Variance Variance
Income
Community Services $ (135,338) $ (2,320,948) $ (2,681,413) $ (3,707,714) $ 360,465 (16%)
Corporate Services $ (3,600,652) $ (17,164,078) $ (17,357,847) $ (14,358,996) $ 193,769 (1%)
Economic Development $ (146,453) $ (1,175,440) $ (817,928) $ (1,277,689) $ (357,512) 30%
Engineering $ (954,303) $ (3,547,395) $ (3,242,994) $ (3,575,063) $ (304,401) 9%
Governance $ (1,192) $ (3,923) $ (1,500) $ 3,923 0%
Recreation & Culture & Leisure $ 455 $ (505,260) $ (315,778) $ (474,985) $ (189,482) 38%
Regulatory Services $ (19,893) $ (193,398) $ (211,214) $ (205,013) $ 17,816 0%
Waste & Environment $ (96,335) $ (1,509,360) $ (1,475,679) $ (1,570,218) $ (33,681) 2%
Income Total $ (4,953,711) $ (26,415,879) $ (26,106,776) $ (25,171,178) $ (309,103) 1%
Expenditure
Community Services $ 337,991 $ 2,963,853 $ 2,652,730 $ 3,029,105 $ 311,123 10%
Corporate Services $ 42,910 $ 1,909,856 $ 1,625,662 $ 1,797,975 $ 284,194 0%
Economic Development $ 179,555 $ 1,486,595 $ 1,562,811 $ 1,792,787 $ (76,216) (5%)
Engineering $ 255,938 $ 11,446,465 $ 5,468,652 $ 10,290,527 $ 5,977,813 52%
Governance $ 237,499 $ 1,294,112 $ 1,401,472 $ 1,505,635 $ (107,360) (8%)
Recreation & Culture & Leisure $ 43,518 $ 1,448,330 $ 1,493,512 $ 1,895,187 $ (45,182) (3%)
Regulatory Services $ 89,297 $ 795,722 $ 687,644 $ 721,307 $ 108,078 14%
Waste & Environment $ 226,135 $ 2,717,101 $ 2,098,673 $ 2,786,702 $ 618,428 23%
Expenditure Total $ 1,412,843 $ 24,062,034 $ 16,991,156 $ 23,819,225 $ 7,070,878 29%
Income
Contribution & Donations Income protection insurance staff contribution $ 10,072
Income protection insurance $ 53,941
Utilities recoupment $ 2,590
Legal costs recovered $ 2,291
Expenses
Contributions & Donations Community Services $ 218
Senior Citizens $ 180
Employee Costs Salaries & Wages & Oncosts (includes Annual $ 845,400
Leave, Sick Leave, Long Service Leave etc)
Workcover $ 1,626
Allowances $ 17,539
Superannuation $ 92,056
Training $ 546
Travelling $ 7,069
Other Employee Costs $ 560
Staff Clothing $ 1,227
02000 - Housing
0900 - Building Capital Works $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - 0%
Capital Works
Administration Supply of 4 x 3 door lockers $ 2,833.00
Supply of blinds $ 2,808.00
Solar power system at Mechanics Depot at Gateway $ 14,773.00
BEET
Supply & install exposed aggregate (DF) $ 32,537.00
Maternal & Child Health Solar power system at Mechanics Depot at the $ 10,318
Warracknabeal Childrens Hub
Current Liabilities
Creditors $ (295,481) $ 1,100,000 $ 981,337 $ 1,100,000 $ 118,663 11%
Current Loans $ - $ 50,000 $ 20,870 $ 50,000 $ 29,130 58%
Short Term Provisions $ (109,982) $ 2,800,000 $ 3,400,752 $ 2,800,000 $ (600,752) (21%)
Trust & Deposits $ 5,768 $ 21,000 $ 37,493 $ 21,000 $ (16,493) (79%)
Current Liabilities Total $ (399,695) $ 3,971,000 $ 4,440,452 $ 3,971,000 $ (469,452)
Equity
Accumulated Surplus/Deficit $ 3,540,868 $ 70,126,000 $ 81,138,109 $ 70,126,000 $ (11,012,109) (16%)
Asset Revaluation Reserve $ - $ 82,750,000 $ 75,780,097 $ 82,750,000 $ 6,969,903 8%
TOTAL EQUITY $ 3,540,868 $ 152,876,000 $ 156,918,206 $ 152,876,000 $ (4,042,206)
Investments
Bendigo Bank $ 357,874.70 1.50% 1/09/2020
Commonwealth Bank $ 135,612.27 2.60% 1/10/2019
National Australia Bank $ 239,339.79 2.70% 14/07/2019
AMP (oncall) $ 420.39 Oncall
$ 733,247
Loans
Porter Plant - Street Sweeper $ 81,069 5 years
Yarriambiack Shire Council
Summary of Balance Sheet as at 31st May
Assets
Current Assets YTD Actuals
Cash & Cash Equivalents The general bank account had a balance of $9.909 million $ 10,726,250
at the 31st May. Council is holding $355,857 in cash and
investments of Section 86 Committees. Council has
$718,633 invested with the NAB, CBA and Bendigo Banks.
Rate Debtors For the month of May Rate Debtors decreased by $341,060. $2,348,155
Outstanding rates are being pursued by debt collection
agencies. The 4th installment is due at the end of June.
Liabilities
Current Liabilities
Creditors At the time of preparing this report all May invoices have $981,337
been processed.
RECOMMENDATION:
That the Revenue Report as at June 2020 be received.
Outstanding Rates
Rate Classification 2018/2019 Budget 2018/2019 Actuals 2019/2020 Budget Actual YTD Receipts Rebates Current Arrears & Legals Interest Total
Kerbside Garbage Charges $ 740,677.47 $ 218,663.37 $ 761,746.68 $ (670,498.28) $ (37,181.90) $ 113,260.18 $ 110,394.87 $ 46,291.91 $ 269,946.96
Kerbside Recycling Charges $ 394,258.80 $ 113,799.63 $ 415,337.56 $ (347,765.80) $ (26,911.75) $ 67,518.58 $ 65,399.18 $ 18,496.17 $ 151,413.93
Municipal Charge $ 366,685.92 $ 201,009.00 $ 375,324.92 $ (317,834.15) $ (16,201.52) $ 65,033.26 $ 135,067.66 $ 50,956.61 $ 251,057.53
Fire Services Fixed Charge $ 748,468.00 $ 231,930.12 $ 763,776.00 $ (647,329.49) $ (43,900.00) $ 110,665.57 $ 171,266.85 $ 43,344.82 $ 325,277.24
Fire Services Levy $ 363,449.08 $ 40,937.12 $ 489,135.18 $ (472,285.03) $ - $ 26,389.72 $ 11,521.26 $ 2,124.91 $ 40,035.89
Credits $ - $ - $ - $ 2,527.03 $ - $ (138,256.21) $ - $ - $ (138,256.21)
Total $ 2,613,539.27 $ 806,339.24 $ 2,805,320.34 $ (2,453,185.72) $ (124,195.17) $ 244,611.10 $ 493,649.82 $ 161,214.42 $ 899,475.34
Grand Total $ 13,343,803.55 $ 1,822,429.98 $ 13,807,684.04 $ (12,884,757.59) $ (258,325.51) $ 988,141.00 $ 1,106,238.29 $ 363,030.75 $ 2,457,410.04
Hopetoun Ward 2019/2020 Budget Actual YTD Receipts Rebates Current Arrears & Legals Interest Total
Commercial Rates $ 94,865.59 $ (90,703.85) $ (882.23) $ 4,275.85 $ 6,212.06 $ 5,193.04 $ 15,680.95
Farmland Rates $ 2,594,093.71 $ (2,485,105.09) $ (1,315.15) $ 120,511.50 $ 49,305.26 $ 6,402.25 $ 176,219.01
Residential Rates $ 403,444.99 $ (329,900.63) $ (30,264.32) $ 66,514.66 $ 136,210.33 $ 59,521.73 $ 262,246.72
Kerbside Garbage Charges $ 170,438.40 $ (141,446.81) $ (11,198.67) $ 27,696.41 $ 42,786.54 $ 23,196.82 $ 93,679.77
Kerbside Recycling Charges $ 103,087.38 $ (82,035.01) $ (8,365.61) $ 18,115.61 $ 24,378.80 $ 8,404.26 $ 50,898.67
Municipal Charge $ 111,118.40 $ (90,801.86) $ (5,013.07) $ 21,679.71 $ 61,963.31 $ 24,622.71 $ 108,265.73
Credits $ - $ (8,360.73) $ - $ (39,932.84) $ - $ - $ (39,932.84)
Fire Services Fixed Charge $ 236,859.00 $ (196,619.88) $ (11,750.00) $ 37,593.61 $ 78,602.32 $ 21,264.95 $ 137,460.88
Fire Services Levy $ 144,957.46 $ (138,745.08) $ - $ 6,999.93 $ 3,678.01 $ 629.11 $ 11,307.05
Total $ 3,858,864.93 $ (3,563,718.94) $ (68,789.05) $ 263,454.44 $ 403,136.63 $ 149,234.87 $ 815,825.94
Warracknabeal Ward 2019/2020 Budget Actual YTD Receipts Rebates Current Arrears & Legals Interest Total
Commercial Rates $ 173,178.24 $ (153,826.00) $ (456.76) $ 25,316.17 $ 8,067.12 $ 1,475.14 $ 34,858.43
Farmland Rates $ 3,302,560.35 $ (3,209,775.68) $ (799.19) $ 137,392.14 $ 51,402.42 $ 7,328.43 $ 196,122.99
Residential Rates $ 1,092,349.46 $ (936,506.25) $ (56,739.10) $ 157,855.17 $ 176,117.05 $ 65,184.70 $ 399,156.92
Kerbside Garbage Charges $ 381,270.26 $ (332,528.92) $ (13,833.35) $ 54,434.67 $ 34,444.10 $ 11,185.29 $ 100,064.06
Kerbside Recycling Charges $ 187,431.60 $ (159,565.97) $ (9,799.24) $ 29,102.56 $ 19,022.01 $ 3,593.87 $ 51,718.44
Municipal Charge $ 154,664.80 $ (133,166.52) $ (5,738.29) $ 25,498.11 $ 41,721.34 $ 15,755.44 $ 82,974.89
Credits $ - $ 4,621.29 $ - $ (54,555.23) $ - $ - $ (54,555.23)
Fire Services Fixed Charge $ 310,499.00 $ (266,732.97) $ (17,650.00) $ 43,270.96 $ 54,507.20 $ 13,222.41 $ 111,000.57
Fire Services Levy $ 198,501.24 $ (190,436.82) $ - $ 11,403.19 $ 4,791.91 $ 847.39 $ 17,042.49
Total $ 5,800,454.95 $ (5,377,917.84) $ (105,015.93) $ 429,717.74 $ 390,073.15 $ 118,592.67 $ 938,383.56
$14,000,000
$12,000,000
$10,000,000
$8,000,000
$6,000,000
$4,000,000
$2,457,410.04
$2,000,000
$988,141.00 $1,048,078.24
$363,030.75
$58,160.05
$-
Total Outstanding Current Arrears Interest Legal Costs
-$43,900.00
DHHS Rebates
Council Rebates
-$205,980.14
New House Rebates
CollectAU Debt Collection Report Summary
$200,000
$180,000
$156,873.09
$160,000
$147,354.69
$140,000
$120,000
$100,000
$80,000
$60,000
$40,000
$20,000 $13,200.00
$3,681.60
$0
Open Amount Total Payments Total Costs Balance
$15,700.70
RECOMMENDATION:
That the Capital Works Report as at June 2020 be received.
Urban Streets
Cost Start /
%
Project Budget to Completion Comments
Completed
date Date
Inroads (Contractor)
Austin St
$4,659 100% April 1 section – 52 metres
Hopetoun
Lascelles St – Chiprick Ln
Inroads (Contractor)
6 sections – 261 metres in
Bowman St
$11,928 100% April total
Warracknabeal
Rainbow Rd – Railway
Line
Inroads (Contractor)
Breen St 5 sections – 323 metres in
$16,376 100% November
Murtoa total
McClintock St – Gulbin Rd
Inroads (Contractor)
Cromie St
$10,464 100% November 1 section – 202 metres
Murtoa
Munro St – Marma St
Inroads (Contractor)
Cromie St 1 section – 99 metres
(Median) $18,919 100% April Start of Parking Area (opp
Rupanyup Emmetts) – End of Parking
Area
Inroads (Contractor)
Degenhardt St
$11,186 100% November 1 section – 98 metres
Murtoa
Cromie St – McDonald St
Inroads (Contractor)
Devereux St
$4,211 100% April 1 section – 94 metres
Warracknabeal
Kelsall St – Bowman St
Inroads (Contractor)
Duncan St
$6,552 100% April 1 section – 156 metres
Warracknabeal
Kelsall St – End
Inroads (Contractor)
Edward St
$2,842 100% April 1 section – 58 metres
Rupanyup
End of Hotmix – End
Inroads (Contractor)
Foundry St 2 sections – 133 metres in
$9,750 100% April
Minyip total
Main St – Change
Inroads (Contractor)
Gould St 4 sections – 358 metres in
$17,476 100% April
Warracknabeal total
Craig Ave – Cox St
AGENDA Ordinary Meeting of Council
Issue Date: 24 June 2020 Page 54/ 329
Agenda
Inroads (Contractor)
Hewitt St 2 sections – 149 metres in
$7,301 100% April
Warracknabeal total
Rose St – Gardiner St
Inroads (Contractor)
MacKenzie St
$1,823 100% April 1 section – 42 metres
Beulah
Phillips St – Change
Inroads (Contractor)
McLeod St
$7,406 100% April 1 section – 108 metres
Minyip
Market St – Petering St
Inroads (Contractor)
Menin Ave 2 sections – 128 metres in
$6,182 100% April
Warracknabeal total
Kokoda Ave – Coral Ave
Inroads (Contractor)
Molyneaux St
$37,856 100% April 1 section – 265 metres
Warracknabeal
Lyle St – Woolcock St
Inroads (Contractor)
Munro St
$6,993 100% November 1 section – 111 metres
Murtoa
Collins St – Webb St
Inroads (Contractor)
Phillips St
$17,290 100% April 1 section – 250 metres
Warracknabeal
Anderson St – Scott St
Inroads (Contractor)
Scott St
$35,078 100% April 1 section – 232 metres
Warracknabeal
Phillips St – Kelsall St
Inroads (Contractor)
Taverner St 2 sections – 237 metres in
$16,216 100% April
Beulah total
Hopetoun St – Deakin St
Inroads (Contractor)
Wheatlands
1 section – 366 metres
Museum Rd $15,372 100% April
Henty Hwy – Stawell
Warracknabeal
Warracknabeal Rd
Inroads (Contractor)
Wood St
$6,363 100% April 1 section – 101 metres
Rupanyup
Cromie St – Stewart St
Inroads (Contractor)
Wood St
$12,519 100% April 1 section – 263 metres
Warracknabeal
Start – Hudgson St
Inroads (Contractor)
Yarrack Ln
$3,969 100% April 1 section – 81 metres
Hopetoun
Change – Austin St
Rural Roads Seals
Start /
Cost %
Project Budget Completion Comments
to Completed
Date
date
Inroads (Contractor)
Hopetoun 1.99 kms x 6.6m Seal
$91,938 100% April
Yaapeet Rd Starting 24 kms from
Hopetoun Rainbow Rd
Inroads (Contractor)
Patchewollock 1.26 kms x 6.6m Seal
$58,212 100% April
Tempy Rd Starting 6.4 kms from
Sunraysia Hwy
Patchewollock Inroads (Contractor)
$71,610 100% April
Tempy Rd 1.55 kms x 6.6m Seal
AGENDA Ordinary Meeting of Council
Issue Date: 24 June 2020 Page 55/ 329
Agenda
Cost to Start /
%
Project Budget date Completion Comments
Completed
Date
New Kerbing –
Werrigar St
$249,750 $154,250 100% January/Feb 370 metres
Warracknabeal
Anderson St – Creek
Replacing Kerbing –
Campbell St
$72,000 100% May 125 metres
Warracknabeal
Werrigar St – Lynch st
Upgrade path to
Werrigar St $42,245 concrete –
$66,600 100% January/Feb
Warracknabeal 370 metres
Anderson St – Creek
Southern Zone
Cost to Start /
%
Project Budget date Completion Comments
Completed
Date
1.5 kms
Gaulkies Rd – Kranzs Rd
Ailsa Rd $75,000 100% June
Funding – Roads to
Recovery
750 metres
Starting 1.5 kms from
Minyip Rich Watsons Rd heading
$37,500 100% June
Avon Rd east
Funding – Roads to
Recovery
2 kms
Sheep Hills Starting from Henty Hwy
$100,000 50% May
Kellalac Rd Funding – Roads to
Recovery
Northern Zone
750 metres
Starting from Cemetery
Brim East Rd $37,500 100% May to McFarlane’s Driveway
Funding – Roads to
Recovery
2 kms
Binders Rd – Lascelles
Centre Hill Rd $100,000 100% September East Rd
Funding – Roads to
Recovery
1.5 kms
Starting
Galaquil West
$75,000 100% May Collins Rd
Rd
Funding – Roads to
Recovery
Gravel Re-Sheets
Southern Zone
Cost to % Start /
Project Budget date Complete Completion Comments
d Date
4.8 kms starting 8 kms
$30,360 $133,731 from Wimmera Hwy -
3LK Rd + 100% September Gellatlys Rd
$111,240 Funding – Roads to
Recovery & Council
3.2 kms starting 1.6
kms from Borung Hwy
Areegra $61,305 – Watchem
$81,972 100% November
Exchange Rd Warracknabeal Rd
Funding – Roads to
Recovery
1.07 kms starting at
Bryntirion Rd $21,657 $24,411 100% February Stawell
Warracknabeal Rd
3.25 kms starting
7.8 kms from
Burrum
$40,480 $56,445 100% January Minyip Rich Avon Rd
Lawler Rd
Funding – Roads to
Recovery
2.5 kms
Childs Rd $22,272 $45,194 100% April starting at Sheep Hills
Minyip Rd
1.01 kms starting
$1,443 8.7 kms from Donald
Daveys Rd $22,998 100% June
Murtoa Rd –
Yarriambiack Creek
1.33 kms
Delahuntys
$26,919 $34,778 100% February starting at Wimmera
Rd
Hwy
350 metres
Jung Rec
$7,084 $2,942 100% January Starting 7.3 kms from
Reserve Rd
Donald Murtoa Rd
3 segments totalling
3.2 kms
$64,131 starting 3.6 kms from
Lawler Rd $64,870 100% May
end of seal
Funding – Roads to
Recovery
1.5 kms
$50,869 starting 14.4 kms from
Mellis Rd $27,840 100% May
Stawell Warracknabeal
Rd – Rupanyup Rd
2 segments totalling
Niewands Rd $26,716 $26,912 100% February
1.415 kms
Cost to Start /
%
Project Budget date Completion Comments
Completed
Date
420 metres
Starting 11 kms from
Centre Hill Rd $9,030 $15,048 100% August
Hopetoun Sea Lake
Rd – Hollands Rd
1.07 kms
starting at
Cummings Rd $27,606 50% May
Patchewollock Sea
Lake Rd – Baring Rd
1.12 kms
Darts Rd $20,787 $44,061 100% January
starting at Henty Hwy
1.14 kms
Starting 3.35 kms
Ellam December/D
$26,448 $17,255 100% from Warracknabeal
Willenabrina Rd ecember
Rainbow Rd –
Geodetic Rd
July /
Glenore Rd $17,200 $12,623 100% 1 km
August
1.05 kms
Goads Rd $19,488 $34,198 100% January
starting at Henty Hwy
1 km
starting 15.57 kms
Goyura East Rd $21,500 June
from Henty Hwy –
Shire Boundary
Goyura East 1 km
School Bus $17,200 June starting 14.9 kms
Route from Henty Hwy
670 metres
Hatcher
$11,524 $14,125 100% January Starting 2.13 kms
Anderson Rd
from Sunraysia Hwy
AGENDA Ordinary Meeting of Council
Issue Date: 24 June 2020 Page 58/ 329
Agenda
1.8 kms
Starting 1.45 kms
from Hopetoun
Hopevale Rd $30,960 $25,257 100% January Rainbow Rd –
Gaalanungah Rd
Funding – Roads to
Recovery
2.44 kms
starting 3.59 kms
from Windy Ridge Rd
Kinkora Rd $41,968 $156 50% June
– Hogans Rd
Funding – Roads to
Recovery
December/D 490 metres
Langleys Rd $9,094 $10,011 100%
ecember starting at Averys Rd
2.66 kms
starting 5.52 kms
from Sea Lake
Lascelles North August /
$57,190 $28,159 100% Lascelles Rd – Gama
Rd August
Sea Lake Rd
Funding – Roads to
Recovery
1.29 kms
Lewis Rd $23,942 $17,524 100% February starting 1.78 kms
from Lah Angle Rd
1.53 kms
Pearce & September/
$26,316 $20,807 100% starting at Sunraysia
Barbary Rd September
Hwy
2.02 kms
starting 2.6 kms from
September/ Hopetoun Yaapeet
Phitzner Eys Rd $34,744 $15,544 100%
September Rd – Glenore Rd
Funding – Roads to
Recovery
900 metres
starting 4.06 kms
Power Line Rd $16,704 $10,350 100% January from
Jeparit
Warracknabeal Rd
1.55 kms
starting 1.31 kms
from
Patchewollock
Quinanes Rd $33,325 $11,587 50% May
Tempy Rd – View
Point Rd
Funding – Roads to
Recovery
400 metres
starting 6.87 kms
from Galaquil East
Rd –
November/D Birchip Rainbow Rd
Rickards Rd $17,716 $32,125 100%
ecember &
630 metres
starting 5.11 kms
from Galaquil East
Rd
340 metres
August/
Robins Rd $5,848 $7,003 100% starting from Henty
August
Hwy – end
830 metres
Rosebery October/ starting 28.8 kms
$17,845 $22,918 100%
Rainbow Rd October from Henty Hwy –
Sluggets Rd
540 metres
Shearing Shed starting 1.62 kms
$9,288 $11,949 100% July/July
Rd from Patchewollock
Sea Lake Rd
1.61 kms
starting 5.77 kms
from Sunraysia Hwy
Turriff East Rd $34,615 $36,618 100% July/July
– Shearing Shed Rd
Funding – Roads to
Recovery
2.58 kms
starting 5.25 kms
from
Windy Ridge Rd $55,470 June
Henty Hwy
Funding – Roads to
Recovery
1.37 kms
Wirrbibial Rd $23,564 June starting at
Cambacanya Rd
1.86 kms
$19,397 Starting 2.52 kms
Yaapeet West from
$31,992 100% June
Rd Yaapeet Kenmare
Rd – Lake Albacutya
Park
1.3 kms
$18,504 Starting 8.25 kms
Yarto Speed Rd $22,360 100% May from
Patchewollock Sea
Lake Rd
Rehabs
Southern Zone
Renew 4m Seal
Funding - Fixing
Country Roads
1.5 kms
starting Huebners Rd
Minyip Dimboola $460,431 – Glovers Rd
$437,000 95% December
Rd Renew 6.6m Seal
Funding – Heavy
Vehicle Safety
Northern Zone
1.6 kms
starting 21.5 kms
Yaapeet $202,227 from Cowan St
$348,738 80% August
Kenmare Rd Renew 4m Seal
Funding - Fixing
Country Roads
1 km
Renew 6.6m Seal
Hopetoun $294,726 starting Hopevale Rd
$385,480 50% April
Yaapeet Rd towards Hopetoun
Funding - Fixing
Country Roads
1.5 kms
starting Witneys Rd
$289,537 heading east
Lah West Rd $330,338 80% November
Renew 4m Seal
Funding - Fixing
Country Roads
2 kms
starting Taylor Rd
$400,292 heading north
Beyal Rd $342,988 100% January
Renew 4m Seal
Funding - Fixing
Country Roads
Urban Construction
Southern Zone
Funding – Roads to
Recovery
100 metres
Henty Hwy
Grain Corp
$50,000 100% April Entrance
Warracknabeal
Funding – Roads to
Recovery
Northern Zone
410 metres
in between Hopetoun
Cronomby
Sea Lake Rd –
Tanks Rd $149,500 June
Sunraysia Hwy
Woomelang
Funding – Roads to
Recovery
Cutya Lane
$20,000 $7,435 100% December Rehabilitate and seal
Hopetoun
Lascelles /
10 metres
Hopetoun St $12,000 $13,845 100% April
Intersection
Beulah
Other works:
RECOMMENDATION:
That Council note the permits issued by Council between 1 May 2020 and 31 May 2020.
SUMMARY
The 2020/21 Budget has been prepared and at the Council meeting on 27 May 2020 it was
resolved to advertise the draft 2020/21 Budget for public consultation. This has been
completed and the Budget is now tabled and presented for adoption.
RECOMMENDATION:
1. That in accordance with Section 130 of the Local Government Act 1989 (the Act)
the 2020/2021 Budget as tabled be adopted.
2. That the Chief Executive Officer be authorized to give public notice of this
decision to adopt the Budget, in accordance with Section 130 (2) of the Act
3. That a copy of the adopted Budget be forwarded to the Minister for Local
Government before 30 June, in accordance with Section 130 (4) of the Act
4. Declare the rate, municipal charge and annual service charges for 2020/21
financial year as set out within the 2020/21 Budget document on pages 26 to
30.
5. That the Chief Executive Officer be authorised to levy and recover the aforesaid
general rates and charges in accordance with the Local Government Act 1989
6. Declare the fees and charges for 2020/21 financial year as contained in the
2020/21 Budget document on pages 49 to 63 and that the Chief Executive Officer
be authorised to approve minor amendments and inclusions to the fees and
charges throughout the financial year.
ATTACHMENTS
2020/21 Budget (Draft)
DISCUSSION
In accordance with Section 130 of the Local Government Act 1989 (the Act) Council is
required to formally adopt the 2020/21 Annual Budget by 30 June 2020.
The Minister for Local Government approved an extension of the date by which Council’s
must adopt their budgets for financial year 2020-21. All Councils were provided with an
extension until the 31 August 2020. Yarriambiack Shire Council has however opted to
meet the original timeline of 30 June 2020.
Consultation
As resolved by Council on 27 May 2020, the proposed Budget was placed on public
exhibition from Wednesday 27 May 2020 to Tuesday 23 June 2020 inclusive, calling for
submissions as required under Section 223 of the Act. This was advertised in the local
newspapers.
Section 223 of the Act requires Council to follow a process of enabling submissions to be
received. There was no written submission received by 24 June 2020.
Having completed all statutory requirements, the 2020/21 Annual Budget can now be
considered for adoption.
• Financial
The Budget contains financial statements including a budgeted Comprehensive
Income Statement, Balance Sheet, Statement of Changes in Equity, Statement of
Cash Flows, Statement of Capital Works and Statement of Human Resources.
These statements have been prepared for the year ended 30 June 2021 in
accordance with the Act and Regulations. They are consistent with the annual
financial statements prepared in accord with the Australian Accounting Standards.
The 20120/21 Budget also included information about the rates and charges to be
levied, the capital works program to be undertaken, the human resources required,
and other information Council requires in order to make an informed decision about
the adoption of the Budget.
RISK
Utilising the Risk Management Framework 2019, the following assessment has been
made:
Executive Summary 5
1. Key things we are funding 5
2. Council Expenditure and Sources of Revenue 7
3. Budget Overview 8
BUDGET REPORTS
1. Link to the Council Plan 11
1.1 Legislative Planning and accountability framework 11
1.1.2 Key planning considerations 11
1.2 Our purpose 12
1.3 Strategic objectives 12
2. Services and service performance indicators
2.1 Strategic Objective 1 - Good Governance 14
2.2 Strategic Objective 2 - A place to live and grow 15
2.3 Strategic Objective 3 - A safe and active community and sustainable environment 16
2.4 Strategic Objective 4 - A planned future 17
2.5 Performance Statement 17
2.6 Performance Outcome Indicators - Definitions 18
2.7 Reconciliation with budgeted operating result 19
3. Financial statements 20
4. Notes to the financial statements 27
5. Financial performance indicators 48
6. Fees and charges schedule 50
Mayor’s Introduction
The Councillors and I are pleased to release the proposed Budget
2020/21 to the Community for comment and public submissions.
This budget builds on our Council Plan 2017-2021 vision which
focuses on the following five key areas:
Good governance; - A place to live and grow; - A safe and active
community and sustainable environment; - A planned future; -
Health and wellbeing.
The Council Plan 2017-2021, sets out our strategic plan to deliver
our vision over the full term of the Council. Each year the Council
Plan is reviewed and changes made where required.
The proposed budget details the resources required over the
next year to fund the large range of services we provide to the
community. These services range from those which are about
directly caring for people through facilities and programs including
kindergartens, the library and community care support services,
to services which maintain or enhance our environment and
surroundings, including waste collection and our roads and footpath
management schedules.
It also includes details of proposed capital expenditure allocations
to improve and renew our Council’s physical infrastructure, Cr Graeme Massey
buildings and operational assets as well as funding proposals for a
range of operating projects.
As Councillors, it is our job to listen to community sentiment and understand your priorities. We have consistently
heard that Council’s services are valued by the community, and that Council also needs to be financially responsible.
In response, Council has initiated an enterprise wide approach to identify savings that don’t impact on its services, to
provide increased value for money to ratepayers. Council will, continue to focus on identifying sustainable cost savings
that will enable it to deliver high quality, responsive and accessible services to the community.
The proposed budget proposes a rate increase of 1.95per cent. The Fair Go Rates System (FGRS) has capped rates
increases by Victorian councils to the forecast movement of 2 per cent.
In this proposed budget we have allocated funding of $ 7, 661,000 million for asset renewals and upgrades. The
proposed budget also funds $1,072,000 for new assets.
Highlights of the capital program include;
• Roads ($6.187 million) – including reconstructions, roads to recovery projects, fixing country roads, resheeting,
resealing, footpaths and kerb and channel
• Buildings ($ 823,000) – including Fire Safety Upgrades at Caravan Parks, Warracknabeal Tourist Information and
Amenity Building Upgrades, construction of a Records Shed and Hall Upgrades.
• Recreation, leisure and community facilities ($135,000) – including Warracknabeal Leisure Centre Gymnasium and
Upgrades to Tempy Recreation Reserve.
• Plant and Equipment ($1.139 million) – including information technology, furniture and equipment and scheduled
replacement of Council’s fleet and machinery.
We have also allocated funding to deliver tangible progress on other key priorities and initiatives including;
1. Implement a new finance and corporate system
2. Implement the new Local Government Act requirements
3. Continue to implement the Local Government Inspectorate Action Plan
4. Build a compliant Records storage facility
5. Develop a Customer Service Request system
6. Develop the Hopetoun Power House in to accommodation
7. Warracknabeal Tourism Information and amenities building upgrades
8. Support the development of Minyip community Fuel
9. Upgrade Patchewollock playgrounds and streetscapes
10. Install accommodation at Yaapeet Community reserve
11. Redevelop the Warracknabeal Stadium gymnasium
12. Undertake a waste strategy and trial a recycling trailer for smaller townships.
13. Development of an ANZAC Park masterplan
14. Applications for improved Early Years facilities in Warracknabeal and the southern part of the Shire
15. Implement Yarriambiack Libraries
16. Halls upgrading funding across fourteen halls
Cr Graeme Massey
Mayor
Major Initiatives:
1) Implementation of a new finance and corporate system
2) Implementation of the new Local Government Act requirements
3) Continue to implement the Local Government Inspectorate Action Plan
Minor Initiatives
1) Focus on reducing long term medium risk audit committee and I meant focus on reducing long term audit risk
recommendations
2) Continue to actively pursue the recovery on unpaid rates
3) Build a compliant records storage facility
4) Develop and implement a Customer Service Request system
Major Initiatives:
1) Develop the Hopetoun Power House into accommodation
2) Warracknabeal Tourist Information Centre and amenities upgrades
3) Support the development of the Minyip Community Fuel project
Minor Initiatives
1) Caravan Park master plans completed across six sites
2) Upgrade Patchewollock playgrounds and streetscapes
3) Support the completion of the eRup project
4) Install accommodation at Yaapeet Recreation Reserve
Major Initiatives:
1) Implementation of streetscape designs across the Council
2) Redevelop the Warracknabeal Leisure Centre Gymnasium
3) Undertake the development of a waste strategy and trial a recycling trailer for smaller townships
Minor Initiatives
1) Carry out major maintenance at Minyip Swimming Pool
2) Update cricket pitch and shade area at the Tempy Recreation Reserve
3) Caravan Park fire safety upgrades at five caravan park sites
4) Develop a masterplan for ANZAC Park Warracknabeal
Major Initiatives:
1) Applications for improved Early Years facilities in Warracknabeal and the southern part of the Shire
2) Capitalise on additional Roads to Recovery Funding
3) Implementation of Yarriambiack Libraries
4) Upgrade14 halls as part of the ‘Home is where the Hall is’ funding
Minor Initiatives
1) Increase funding for footpath, kerb and channel
2) Complete streetscape designs for four townships
3) Fire design implementation for Warracknabeal Livestock Exchange
Government &
Financing
Capital & Operational Grants < INCOME $25.522 m
$11.299 m
Victorian Grants Commission with
Financial Assistance Grants
$5.529 m
Fees and Charges
$1.153 m
------------------------- Capital Works
Ratepayers $8.733 m
Budget influences
The 2020/21 Budget has been influenced by the following external factors:
• The Victorian State Government has introduced a cap on rate increases from 2016/17. The cap for 2020/21 has been
set at 2.0% (2019/20: 2.5%) but the proposed budget allows for a 1.95% rate increase.
• CPI of 1.5% has been estimated for the 2020/21 year.
• Council will commence in 2020/21 renegotiating a new Enterprise Agreement as the current agreement expires in June
2021.
• Ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Ongoing cost shifting. This occurs where Local Government provides a service to the community on behalf of the
State and Federal Government. Over time the funds received by local governments do not increase in line with real cost
increases.
• The Fire Services Property Levy will continue to be collected by Council on behalf of the State Government with the
introduction of the Fire Services Property Levy Act 2012.
Internal Influences
As well as external influences, there are also a number of internal influences which are expected to have a significant
impact on the 2020/21 Budget:
• Excluding municipal rates and waste collection charges, Council is only able to exert some control over approximately
4% of its income. Council relies heavily on raising rates to fund its services and facilities
• As Council has limited ability to fund major capital works from its operating activities, Council relies heavily on
government grants to fund the proposed capital works over the next four years.
Budget Principles
Guidance is provided to all Council officers with budget responsibilities. These key budget principles upon which the
officers were to prepare their budgets included:
• Existing fees and charges to be increased in line with CPI or market levels.
• Grants to be based on confirmed funding levels.
• New revenue sources to be identified where possible.
• Service levels to be maintained at 2019/20 levels with the aim to use less resources with an emphasis on innovation
and efficiency.
• Contract labour to be minimised.
• New initiatives or employee proposals to be justified through a business case.
• Real savings in expenditure and increases in revenue identified in 2019/20 to be preserved
• Operating revenues and expenses arising from completed 2019/20 capital projects to be included.
Cost escalations for the preparation of the 2020/21 budget onwards include:
• Rate revenue to be projected at 1.95% - the current year rate cap is 2%.
• Waste charges to increase by 1.95% and recycling charges to increase by 1.95% to address the continued rising cost
of dealing with waste management and in particular the current cost of recycling material.
• Operating grants increasing at 2%.
• Capital grants only included where some level of surety arises and linked directly to a specific capital project.
• Continuation of the Roads to Recovery program
• User Fees and Charges increasing in line with service reviews.
• Statutory Fees and Charges only increasing where legislation is known.
• Employee’s costs increasing at 2%.
• Materials & consumables increasing at 3%.
• Utilities increasing at 5%.
Key Statistics
Forecast Actual Budget
Key Statistics
2019/20 2020/21
$’000 $’000
This section includes the following reports an statements inaccodance with the Local Government Act 1989 and the
Local Government Model Financial Report.
Stakeholder
& Community Jan-Jun
Council Plan Engagement
> Strategic Objectives
> Strategies Annual Report
> Strategic Indicators Report of Operations
Medium - Major Initiatives
Term - Service Performance
- Governance and Feb-Jun
Strategic Resource Plan Management
> Financial Statements
> Non-Financial Resources Financial Statements
- Financial Statements
- Capital Works Statement
- Notes
Mar-Jun
Annual Budget Performance Statement
> Financial Statements - Service Performance
> Services and Initiatives Outcomes
Short > Service Outcome Indicators - Financial Performance
Term > Major Initiatives - Sustainable Capacity
Jul-Sep
The Council Plan is prepared with reference to Council’s 10-year long term financial plan.
The timing of each component in the planning framework is critical to the successful achievement of the planned
outcomes.
Our Vision
In consultation with our community, Yarriambiack Shire Council aims to provide a viable, sustainable and vibrant future.
Our Mission
Through strong leadership, transparency and strategic planning Councillors and Staff in partnership with community will
achieve our vision.
ICARE Values:
Integrity
• Make decisions lawfully, fairly, impartially, and in the public interest.
• We are honest, trustworthy, reliable, transparent and accountable in our dealings.
• Keep our customers informed, in plain language, about the process and outcome.
Community Focus
• Lead and develop leadership within our community.
• Constantly strive to improve our services.
• Forge closer relationships with customers.
Accountability
• We are careful, conscientious and diligent;
• Use public resources economically and efficiently;
• Investigate matters thoroughly and objectively;
Respect
• Treat people fairly, with respect and have proper regard for their rights.
• Treat our customers with courtesy and respect.
Excellence
• Actively pursue positive outcomes for the community.
• Investigate matters thoroughly and objectively.
Strategic Objective
Services Indicators (outcome)
Initiatives Major Initiatives
Strategic Objective Report of
Operations
Initiatives
1) Develop the Hopetoun Power House into accommodation
2) Warracknabeal Tourist Information Centre and amenities upgrades
3) Support the development of the Minyip Community Fuel project
4) Caravan Park master plans completed across six sites
5) Upgrade Patchewollock playgrounds and streetscapes
6) Support the completion of the eRup project
7) Install accommodation at Yaapeet Recreation Reserve
Initiatives
1) Implementation of streetscape designs across the Council
2) Redevelop the Warracknabeal Leisure Centre Gymnasium
3) Undertake the development of a waste strategy and trial a recycling trailer for smaller townships.
4) Carry out major maintenance at Minyip Swimming Pool
5) Update cricket pitch and shade area at the Tempy Recreation Reserve
6) Caravan Park fire safety upgrades at five caravan park sites
7) Develop a masterplan for ANZAC Park Warracknabeal
Statutory Planning Decision making Council planning decisions upheld at [Number of VCAT decisions that did not
VCAT. set aside Council’s decision in relation
(Percentage of planning application to a planning application / Number of
decisions subject to review by VCAT and VCAT decisions in relation to planning
that were not set aside) applications]
x 100
Roads Satisfaction Satisfaction with sealed local roads. Community satisfaction rating out of 100
(Community satisfaction rating out of 100 with how Council has performed on the
with how Council has performed on the condition of sealed local roads.
condition of sealed local roads)
Libraries Participation Active library members. [Number of active library members /
(Percentage of the municipal population municipal population] x 100
that are active library members)
Waste Collection Waste diversion Kerbside collection waste diverted from [Weight of recyclables and green organics
landfill. collected from kerbside bins / Weight of
(Percentage of garbage, recyclables and garbage, recyclables and green organics
green organics collected from kerbside collected from kerbside bins] x 100
bins that is diverted from landfill)
Aquatic Facilities Utilisation Utilisation of aquatic facilities. Number of visits to aquatic facilities /
(Number of visits to aquatic facilities per Municipal population
head of municipal
Animal Management Health and safety Animal management prosecutions. Number of successful animal management
(Number of successful animal prosecutions
management prosecutions)
Food Safety Health and safety Critical and major non-compliance [Number of critical non-compliance
notifications. notifications and major non-compliance
(Percentage of critical and major non- notifications about a food premises
compliance notifications that are followed followed up / Number of critical non-
up by Council) compliance notifications and major non-
compliance notifications about food
premises] x 100
Maternal and Child Participation Participation in the MCH service. [Number of children who attend the
Heath (Percentage of children enrolled who MCH service at least once (in the year) /
participate in the MCH service) Number of children enrolled in the MCH
service] x 100
Participation Participation in MCH service by Aboriginal [Number of Aboriginal children who attend
children. the MCH service at least once (in the year)
(Percentage of Aboriginal children enrolled / Number of Aboriginal children enrolled in
who participate in the MCH service) the MCH service] x 100
Net Cost
(Revenue) Expenditure Revenue
$’000 $’000 $’000
Good Governance 5,034 5,272 (238)
A place to Live and Grow 2,292 4,702 (2,410)
A safe and active Community and sustainable Environment 3,382 3,547 (116)
A Planned Future 6,722 11,346 (4,624)
Health and Wellbeing - - -
Total 17,430 24,867 (7,438)
Funding Sources
Rates & charges revenue (12,862)
Victorian Grants Commission (5,529)
Total funding sources (18,391)
This section includes the following financial statements prepared in accordance with the Local Government Act 1989
and the Local Government (Planning and Reporting) regulations 2014.
Forecast Budget
Note 2019/20 2020/21 2021/22 2022/23 2023/24
$’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000
Income
Rates and charges 4.1.1 12,612 12,862 13,068 13,330 13,596
Statutory fees and fines 4.1.2 169 187 183 187 190
User fees 4.1.3 1,033 966 963 981 1,000
Grants - operating 4.1.4 7,406 8,633 6,680 6,641 6,753
Grants - capital 4.1.4 3,284 2,666 2,227 2,214 2,251
Contributions - monetary 4.1.5 386 234 235 240 244
Net gain/(loss) on disposal of property,
(114) (72) (77) (82) (87)
infrastructure, plant and equipment
Other income 4.1.6 45 46 48 49 50
Total Income 24,821 25,522 23,326 23,559 23,997
Expenses
Employee costs 4.1.7 9,399 10,776 10,425 10,660 10,902
Materials and services 4.1.8 6,573 6,138 4,857 5,017 5,187
Depreciation 4.1.9 5,042 5,193 5,349 5,510 5,675
Bad and doubtful debts 1 1 1 1 1
Contributions and donations 4.1.10 835 674 669 682 695
Borrowing costs - 60 62 64 66
Finance costs - leases - - - - -
Other expenses 4.1.11 1,620 1,718 1,748 1,815 1,884
Total Expenses 23,470 24,560 23,111 23,815 24,410
Forecast Budget
Note 2019/20 2020/21 2021/22 2022/23 2023/24
$’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000
Assets
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents 5,534 3,133 2,618 1,871 924
Trade and other receivables 1,700 1,734 1,500 1,530 1,561
Other financial assets 750 765 780 796 812
Inventories 600 612 624 637 649
Non-current assets classified as held for sale 30 - - - -
Other assets 320 330 339 350 360
Total Current Assets 4.2.1 8,934 6,573 5,862 5,184 4,306
Non-current Assets
Other financial assets 253 258 263 268 274
Investments in associates 130 133 135 138 141
Property, infrastructure, plant and equipment 144,757 148,797 150,479 152,006 153,540
Total Non-current Assets 145,140 149,187 150,877 152,412 153,954
Total Assets 154,074 155,760 156,739 157,596 158,260
Liabilities
Current Liabilities
Trade and other payables 1,100 1,133 1,167 1,471 1,780
Trust funds and deposits 30 31 32 33 34
Provisions 2,277 2,478 2,716 2,967 3,239
Interest-bearing liabilities 21 21 21 16 -
Total Current Liabilities 3,428 3,662 3,936 4,487 5,053
Non-current liabilities
Provisions 550 561 572 584 595
Interest-bearing liabilities 58 37 16 - -
Total Non-current Liabilities 608 598 588 584 595
Total Liabilities 4,036 4,260 4,524 5,071 5,648
Net Assets 150,038 151,500 152,215 152,525 152,612
Equity
Accumulated surplus 73,264 74,226 74,441 74,251 73,838
Reserves 76,774 77,274 77,774 78,274 78,774
Total Equity 150,038 151,500 152,215 152,525 152,612
2021 Budget
Balance at beginning of the financial year 150,038 73,264 76,759 15
Surplus/(deficit) for the year 962 962 - -
Net asset revaluation increment/
500 - 500 -
(decrement)
Balance at end of the financial year 151,500 74,226 77,259 15
2022
Balance at beginning of the financial year 151,500 74,226 77,259 15
Surplus/(deficit) for the year 215 215 - -
Net asset revaluation increment/
500 - 500 -
(decrement)
Balance at end of the financial year 152,215 74,441 77,759 15
2023
Balance at beginning of the financial year 152,215 74,441 77,759 15
Surplus/(deficit) for the year (190) (190) - -
Net asset revaluation increment/
500 - 500 -
(decrement)
Balance at end of the financial year 152,525 74,251 78,259 15
2024
Balance at beginning of the financial year 152,525 74,251 78,259 15
Surplus/(deficit) for the year (413) (413) - -
Net asset revaluation increment/
500 - 500 -
(decrement)
Balance at end of the financial year 152,612 73,838 78,759 15
Infrastructure
Roads 5,983 6,187 4,925 5,063 5,226
Bridges - 50 51 53 55
Footpaths 90 100 103 106 109
Kerb and channel 172 200 79 81 84
Drainage 27 27 29 29 30
Recreational, leisure and community facilities 785 135 10 10 10
Waste management 267 - - - -
Parks, open space and streetscapes 66 10 10 10 10
Total Infrastructure 7,390 6,709 5,207 5,352 5,524
Total Capital Works Expenditure 4.5.1 9,637 8,733 6,531 6,537 6,709
Represented by:
New asset expenditure 857 1,072 531 417 467
Asset renewal expenditure 5,000 4,511 4,000 4,080 4,162
Asset upgrade expenditure 3,780 3,150 2,000 2,040 2,081
Total Capital Works Expenditure 4.5.1 9,637 8,733 6,531 6,537 6,709
A summary of the number of full time equivalent (FTE) Council staff in relation to the above expenditure is included
below:
Budget Permanent Permanent
Department 2020/21 Full Time Part Time
FTE FTE FTE
Community Services 24 4 20
Corporate Services 6 5 1
Economic Development 4 2 2
Engineering 67 67 -
Governance 7 5 2
Recreation, Culture and Leisure 4 2 2
Regulatory Services 6 5 1
Waste and Environment 3 3 -
Total permanent staff FTE 120 93 27
In developing the Strategic Resource Plan, rates and charges were identified as an important source of revenue.
Planning for future rate increases has therefore been an important component of the Strategic Resource Planning
process. The Fair Go Rates System (FGRS) sets out the maximum amount councils may increase rates in a year.
For 2020/21 the FGRS cap has been set at 2.0%. The cap applies to both general rates and municipal charges and is
calculated on the basis of council’s average rates and charges.
The level of required rates and charges has been considered in this context, with reference to Council’s other sources
of income and the planned expenditure on services and works to be undertaken for the community.
To achieve these objectives while maintaining service levels and a strong capital expenditure program, the average
general rate and the municipal charge will increase by 1.95% which is 0.5% below the Minister’s rate cap.
This will raise total rates and charges for 2020/21 to $12.862 million.
4.1.1(a) The reconciliation of the total rates and charges to the Comprehensive Income Statement
is as follows:
2019/20 2020/21 Variance Change
$’000 $’000 $’000 %
General rates* 11,002 11,182 180 1.64%
Municipal charge* 375 383 8 2.13%
Waste management charge 1,182 1,208 26 2.20%
Supplementary rates and rate adjustments (14) (15) (1) 7.14%
Interest on rates and charges 55 54 (1) (1.82%)
Revenue in lieu of rates 12 50 38 316.67%
Total Rates and charges 12,612 12,862 250 1.98%
*These items are subject to the rate cap established under the FGRS
4.1.1(b) The rate in the dollar to be levied as general rates under section 158 of the Act for each
type or class of land compared with the previous financial year
2019/20 2020/21 Change
Type or class of land
cents/$CIV cents/$CIV %
Residential properties 0.00625760 0.00601760 (3.84%)
Commercial properties 0.00625760 0.00601760 (3.84%)
Farming properties 0.00391100 0.00376100 (3.84%)
4.1.1(c) The estimated total amount to be raised by general rates in relation to each type or class
of land, and the estimated total amount to be raised by general rates, compared with the previous
financial year
2019/20 2020/21 Variance Change
Type or class of land
$’000 $’000 $’000 %
Residential 2,153 2,126 (27) (1.25%)
Commercial 358 351 (7) (1.96%)
Farm 8,491 8,705 214 2.52%
Total amount to be raised by general rates 11,002 11,182 180 1.64%
4.1.1(e) The basis of valuation to be used is the Capital Improved Value (CIV)
4.1.1(f) The estimated total value of each type or class of land, and the estimated total value of land,
compared with the previous financial year
2019/20 2020/21 Change Change
Type or class of land
$’000 $’000 $’000 %
Residential 343,359 353,377 10,018 2.92%
Commercial 55,010 58,287 3,277 5.96%
Farm 2,166,794 2,314,598 147,804 6.82%
Total value of land 2,565,163 2,726,262 161,099 6.28%
4.1.1(g) The municipal charge under Section 159 of the Act compared with the previous financial
year
Per Rateable Per Rateable
Property Property Change Change
Type or class of land
2019/20 2020/21
$ $ $’000 %
Municipal 75.08 76.55 1.47 1.96%
4.1.1(h) The estimated total amount to be raised by municipal charges compared with the previous
financial year
2019/20 2020/21 Change Change
Type of charge
$’000 $’000 $’000 %
Municipal 375 383 8 2.13%
4.1.1(i) The rate or unit amount to be levied for each type of service rate or charge under Section
162 of the Act compared with the previous financial year
Per Rateable Per Rateable
Property Property Change Change
Type of Charge
2019/20 2020/21
$ $ $ %
Kerbside collection
Residential - 80lt bin 139.58 142.30 2.72 1.95%
Residential - 120lt bin 193.78 197.55 3.77 1.95%
Residential - 240lt bin 377.14 384.49 7.35 1.95%
Other - 80lt bin 139.58 142.30 2.72 1.95%
Other - 120lt bin 193.78 197.55 3.77 1.95%
Other - 240lt bin 377.14 384.49 7.35 1.95%
Recycling collection
Residential 135.82 138.47 2.65 1.95%
Other 135.82 138.47 2.65 1.95%
4.1.1(k) The estimated total amount to be raised by all rates and charges compared with the previous
financial year
2019/20 2020/21 Change Change
Type of Charge
$’000 $’000 $’000 %
Rates and charges 11,002 11,182 180 1.64%
Municipal charge 375 383 8 2.13%
Kerbside collection 761 766 15 1.97%
Recycling collection 415 423 8 1.93%
Windfarms in lieu of rates 12 50 38 316.67%
Supplementary rates and rate adjustments (14) (15) (1) 7.14%
Total Rates and charges 12,551 12,799 248 1.98%
2019/20 2020/21
Total Rates $11,345,842 $11,565,664
Number of rateable properties $6,939 $6,965
Base Average Rate $1,635.08 $1,660.54
Maximum Rate Increase (set by the State Government) 2.50% 2.00%
Capped Average Rate $1,638.97 $1,628.98
Maximum General Rates and Municipal Charges Revenue $11,372,799 $11,567,086
Budgeted General Rates and Municipal Charges Revenue $11,345,842 $11,565,664
Budgeted Supplementary Rates $(9,000) $(15,000)
Budgeted Total Rates and Municipal Charges Revenue $11,336,842 $11,550,664
4.1.1(m) Any significant changes that may affect the estimated amounts to be raised by rates and
charges
There are no known significant changes which may affect the estimated amounts to be raised by rates and charges.
However, the total amount to be raised by rates and charges may be affected by:
• The making of supplementary valuations (2020/21: estimated ($15,000) and 2019/20: $9,000).
• The variation of returned levels of value (e.g. valuation appeals).
• Changes of use of land such that rateable land becomes non-rateable land and vice versa.
• Changes of use of land such that residential land becomes business land and vice versa.
• Revenue in lieu of rates will be impacted by the exact timing for the commissioning of wind turbines at the Murra
Warra windfarm.
Most statutory fees and fines are levied in accordance with legislation and relate to income collect through animal
registrations, planning permits and building permits.
Statutory fees and fines revenue for 2020/21 are expected to increase by $18,000 due to an increase in building fees.
User fees relate to the wide range of services Council provides across its extensive service delivery programs and
includes caravan park fees, leisure centre user charges, livestock exchange selling fees, waste management fees and
health services brokerage and client fees.
Council sets fees based on market conditions and the cost associated with running a service while giving consideration
to those who may be suffering financial hardship.
User fees are expected to decrease by (6.49%) to $966,000 due mainly to a decrease in private works and tourism fees.
Operating grants include all monies received from State and Federal sources for the purposes of funding the delivery
of Council’s services to ratepayers. Overall the level of operating grants has increased by 16.57% or $1.227 million
compared to 2019/20 forecast. This is due to the expectation that the full allocation of the grants commision will be paid
in the 2020/21 year. It is not expected that the government will bring forward the payment and pay half in the 2019/20
year which occurred at the end of the 2018/19 year.
Capital grants include all monies received from State and Federal sources for the purposes of funding the capital works
program. Overall the level of capital grants has decreased by 18.82% or $618,000 compared to 2019/20.
The Roads to Recovery program will see additional funding of $700,000 being received which is an increase of 43.13%.
Council has also been successful in receiving a $438,000 grant for the upgrading of Halls throughout the shire, but this
money will be paid over 3 financial years.
Monetary contributions include monies paid to Council for works on roads and also contributions by any organisation to
specific projects.
Employee costs include all labour related expenditure such as wages, salaries and oncosts such as allowances, leave
entitlements and employer superannuation.
Employee costs are budgeted to increase by $1.377 million compared to the 2019/20 forecast. The major driver of
labour cost movement is Council’s Enterprise Bargaining Agreement and movement from contractors to permanent staff.
Various funded programs impact on the level of staff and staff costs from year to year. Council in 2019/20 became a pilot
Council for the provision of 3 year old kinder which has meant engaging extra educators to provide this program. Council
is also participating in the Working for Victoria program which is an additional $608,000 over the two financial years.
Superannuation has increased by $304,000 due mainly to an increase in the amount that invests for any calls made on
the defined benefits superannuation scheme. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic and a fall in the markets Council believes
that in the near future a call may be made to ensure there is not a shortfall in this scheme.
Council’s expenditure on materials and services is budgeted to decrease in 2020/21 due mainly to the decrease in the
use of contractors for community project works. Council will also have a decrease in the use of consultants as we will be
using Xero accounting software in 2020/21 which will lead to significant savings.
Council continues to revise service delivery in the face of rising costs and in the ongoing pursuit of efficiencies in
operations.
4.1.9 Depreciation
Forecast Budget Change Change
2019/20 2020/21
$’000 $’000 $’000 %
Buildings 999 1,028 29 2.90%
Plant and equipment 899 926 27 3.00%
Infrastructure 3,144 3,239 95 3.02%
Total Depreciation 5,042 5,193 151 2.99%
Depreciation is an accounting measure which attempts to allocate the value of an asset over its useful life for Council’s
property, plant and equipment and infrastructure assets such as roads and drainage. The increase of $151,000 for
2020/21 is due to the capitalisation of new infrastructure completed in 2019/20.
In 2019/20 Council gave notice that they would be withdrawing from the Wimmera Regional Library Corporation. As a
result the contribution to the Wimmera Regional Library Corporation has decreased by $157,000.
Other expenses relates to a range of unclassified items including audit fees, insurance, lease costs, subscriptions and
other miscellaneous items. Overall there is no significant variation expected in 2020/21.
4.2.2 Liabilities
Trade and other payables are those to whom Council owes money as at 30 June. These liabilities are budgeted to
increase slightly in 2020/21.
Provisions include accrued long service leave, annual leave, sick leave owing to employees and rehabilitation costs for
ceased landfill and gravel pit sites. The liabilities are expected to increase slightly.
4.2.3 Borrowings
The table below shows information on borrowings specifically required by the Regulations.
Forecast Budget
2019/20 2020/21
$’000 $’000
Amount borrowed as at 30 June of the prior year 100 79
Amount proposed to be borrowed 0 0
Amount projected to be redeemed (21) (21)
Amount of borrowings as at 30 June 79 58
Borrowings are liabilities of Council. The Council is budgeting to repay the loan principal of $21,000 in 2020/21 and there
will be no draw down of any new loans.
4.3.2 Equity
Accumulated surplus in the value of all net assets less specific reserve allocation and revaluations that have built up
over financial year.
4.5.1 Summary
Property
The property class comprises buildings and heritage buildings including community facilities and municipal offices.
The most significant projects include $200,000 for the Hopetoun Powerhouse Accommodation, Warracknabeal
Office – Records Shed $75,000, various hall projects $183,000, Warracknabeal Tourist Information Centre $75,000,
Warracknabeal Public Amenities $75,000 and Warracknabeal Livestock Exchange – Fire Equipment $75,000.
Infrastructure
Infrastructure includes roads, bridges, footpaths and kerb & channel, drainage, recreation, leisure and community
facilities, parks, open space and streetscapes and waste management.
Road construction is the most significant at $6.262 million with other expenditure as follows: footpaths $102,000, kerb
& channel $210,000 and recreation $135,000.
Asset renewal ($4.511 million), new assets ($1.072 million) and upgrade ($3.150 million)
A distinction is made between expenditure on new assets, asset renewal and upgrade. Expenditure on asset renewal
is expenditure on an existing asset, that returns the service of the asset to its original capability. Expenditure on new
assets does not have any element of expansion or upgrade of existing assets but will result in an additional burden for
future operation, maintenance and capital renewal.
Infrastructure
Recreation, Leisure & Community Facilities
Warracknabeal Leisure Centre - Gymnasium 100 - - 100 100 - - -
Hopetoun Swimming Pool 5 - 5 - - 5
Tempy Recreation Reserve - Shade sails & cricket 30 - - 30 30 - - -
pitch upgrade
Total Recreation, Leisure & Community Facilities 135 - 5 130 130 - - 5
Gravel Resheets
Hotmix
Golf Links Road 15 - - 15 - - - 15
Hopetoun West, Hopetoun Yaapeet Intersection 15 - - 15 - - - 15
Hopetoun Yaapeet - Yaapeet Kenmare Intersection 15 - - 15 - - - 15
Warracknabeal Sheep Hills / Sheep Hills Bangerang 17 - - 17 - - - 17
Intersection
R Learmonth Road 38 - - 38 - - - 38
Glenorchy Road - Warranooke Road Intersection 17 - - 17 - - - 17
Simson Street, Brim 7 - - 7 - - - 7
Total Hotmix 122 - - 122 - - - 122
Shoulder Resheet
Minyip Banyena Road 58 - 58 - 58 - - -
Rural Rehabilitation
Minyip Banyena Road 396 - - 396 - - - 396
Rosebery Rainbow Road 89 - - 89 89 - - -
Gama Sea Lake Road 202 - 202 - 202 - - -
Banyena Pimpinio Road 172 - - 172 172 - - -
Sea Lake Lascelles Road 396 - - 396 - - - 396
Glenorchy Road 358 - - 358 - - - 358
Hopetoun Yaapeet Road 396 - - 396 - - - 396
Total Rural Rehabilitation 2,009 - 202 1,807 462 - - 1,546
Urban Rehabilitation
Footpath
Dodgshun Street, Hopetoun. (Lascelles Street to School 43 43 - - - - - 43
and up to School crossing landing on School side).
Munro Street, Murtoa. (Hamilton Street to School). 60 - - 60 - - - 60
Total Footpath 102 43 - 60 - - - 102
ASSET EXPENDITURE TYPES SUMMARY OF FUNDING SOURCES
CAPITAL WORKS AREA Project New Renewal Upgrade Grants Community Asset Council
Cost $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Cash Sales Cash
$’000 $’000 $’000 $’000
Infrastructure
Bridge
Minyip Banyena Road 50 - - 50 - - - 50
Total Bridge 50 - - 50 - - - 50
Reseal
Nandaly Tempy Road 43 - 43 - - - - 43
Glenorchy Road 32 - 32 - - - - 32
Banyena Pimpinio Road 102 - 102 - - - - 102
Dyer Street, Rupanyup 16 - 16 - - - - 16
Dyer Street, Rupanyup 16 - 16 - - - - 16
Boolite Sheephills Road 66 - 66 - - - - 66
Duncan Street, Murtoa 21 - 21 - - - - 21
Friend Street, Murtoa 13 - 13 - - - - 13
Webb Street, Murtoa 15 - 15 - - - - 15
Taylor Street, Rupanyup 8 - 8 - - - - 8
Thomas Street, Warracknabeal 22 - 22 - - - - 22
Devereux Street, Warracknabeal 39 - 39 - - - - 39
Milbourne Street, Warracknabeal 5 - 5 - - - - 5
Gardiner Street, Warracknabeal 19 - 19 - - - - 19
Stabilisation
Carroll Street, Minyip 23 - 23 - - - - 23
Ashens Jackson Road 74 - 74 - - - - 74
Total Stabilisation 97 - 97 - - - - 97
TOTAL NEW CAPITAL WORKS 8,733 1,072 4,511 3,150 3,283 33 287 5,129
5. Financial performance indicators
The following table highlights Council’s current and projected performance across a range of key financial performance
indicators. These indicators provide a useful analysis of Council’s financial position and performance and should be
interpreted in the context of the organisation’s objectives.
Notes
Operating position
Adjusted underlying result Adjusted underlying surplus (deficit) / 1 11.00% 10.92% 6.40% 3.39% 1.45% 0.40% +
Adjusted underlying revenue
Liquidity
Working capital Current assets / current liabilities 2 266.00% 260.62% 179.48% 148.94% 115.53% 85.22%
o
Unrestricted cash Unrestricted cash / current liabilities 3 145.00% 161.44% 85.53% 66.52% 41.71% 18.29% o
Obligations
Loans and borrowings Interest bearing loans and borrowings / rate
4 0.81% 0.63% 0.45% 0.28% 0.12% 0.00% +
revenue
Loans and borrowings Interest and principal repayments on
interest bearing loans and borrowings / rate 0.17% (0.17%) (0.16%) (0.16%) (0.12%) 0.00% +
revenue
Indebtedness Non-current liabilities / own source revenue 5.00% 4.30% 4.20% 4.10% 4.00% 4.00% +
Asset renewal Asset renewal expenditure / depreciation 5 141.00% 174.14% 147.53% 112.17% 111.07% 110.00% -
Stability
Rates concentration Rate revenue / adjusted underlying revenue 6 53.00% 59.00% 57.00% 63.00% 63.00% 63.00% -
Rates effort Rate revenue / CIV of rateable properties in
0.50% 0.49% 0.49% 0.49% 0.49% 0.49% o
the municipality
RECOMMENDATION:
That Council sign and affix the Council seal to the National Australia Bank Business
Letter of Variation.
ATTACHMENTS
Business Letter of Variation
DISCUSSION
Council has a National Australia Bank, Bank Guarantee Facility of $300,000. The Business
Letter of Variation states that this facility has been extended until the 30/04/2021.
The document also relates to the updating of the Business Lending General Terms and
Specific Conditions so that the bank will comply with the Banking Code of Conduct. These
changes will take effect once the NAB receives the signed and sealed document.
The National Australia Bank have prepared the document for signing and sealing
Council is required to sign and seal the documents.
RELEVANT LAW
Local Government Act 2020 (Vic)
Division 2
4 Council is a body corporate
(1) A Council—
(a) is a body corporate with perpetual succession; and
(b) must have a common seal; and
(c) may sue or be sued in its corporate name; and
(d) is capable of acquiring, holding, dealing with or disposing of property for the
purpose of performing its functions and exercising its powers; and
is capable of doing and suffering all acts and things which bodies corporate may
by law do and suffer and which are necessary or expedient for performing its
functions and exercising its powers.
(2) The common seal of a Council must—
(a) bear the name of the Council and any other word, letter, sign or device the
Council determines should be included; and
(b) be kept at the Council office; and
(c) be used in accordance with any applicable local law.
SUMMARY
Yarriambiack Shire Council’s Councillor Expense Entitlement Policy has been revised to
meet the requirements of the new Local Government Act (Vic) 2020 (The Act).
The revised policy has adopted a holistic approach to include expense reimbursements for
staff, delegated committee and audit and risk committee members.
RECOMMENDATION:
That Council adopt the Council Expense Reimbursement Policy
ATTACHMENTS
Council Expense Reimbursement Policy
DISCUSSION
The policy has been developed adopting a principles-based approach that is a requirement
of the new Act and includes the following;
• The documentary requirements for submitting a claim
• Time frames for submitting claims
• Requirements for GST invoices.
• Reporting requirements, “A council must provide details of all reimbursements under
this section to the Audit and Risk Committee” and any other reporting required by
council (s 40(2)).
• How reimbursements will be paid.
• How to submit a claim; and
• The approval processes.
The policy is intended to provide advice and a framework for operation.
Council will review the policy periodically to reflect any changes or improvement in council
practices and accountability.
RELEVANT LAW
Section 41 of the Act states a Council must adopt and maintain an expenses policy on or
by 1 September 2020. This provision came into operation on 1 May 2020.
Section 40 of the Act outlines the criteria for reimbursement of out of pocket expenses.
Section 41 outlines the requirement to reimburse the costs of the provision of childcare
and carer services for Councillors or members of delegated committees to perform their
role.
The detailed criteria of application are addressed in the policy.
1 Objective
This policy supports Councillors, staff, members of delegated committees and the Audit
and Risk Committee to perform their role, as defined under the Local Government Act
2020, by ensuring that expenses reasonably incurred in the performance of their role are
reimbursed. The policy also provides guidance on:
Entitlements.
Allowances.
Processes for reimbursement.
Reporting requirements.
The policy is intended to ensure that Councillors, staff, members of delegated committees
and the Audit and Risk Committee are supported to perform their duties without
disadvantage.
2 Responsibility
The Mayor, Chief Executive Officer and Directors are responsible for ensuring compliance
with this Policy and Procedure.
3 Scope
This policy applies to:
Councillors of Yarriambiack Shire Council.
Members of delegated committees of Yarriambiack Shire Council.
Members of the Audit and Risk Committee of Yarriambiack Shire Council.
Staff of Yarriambiack Shire Council.
Duties are those performed by a Councillor, staff member or committee member as a
necessary part of their role, in achieving the objectives of Council.
These duties may include (but are not limited to):
Attendance at meetings of Council and its Committees.
Attendance at briefing sessions, workshops, civic events or functions convened by
Council.
Attendance at conferences, workshops and training programs related to the role of
a Councillor, Mayor or Deputy Mayor, staff member or Committee member.
Attendance at meetings, events or functions representing Council.
Duties in relation to constituents concerning council business.
Members of delegated committees exercising powers of councillors, under delegation. This
policy also applies to those members in the course of undertaking their role as delegated
committee members.
4 Policy Statement
Councillors and Members of Delegated Committees
Councillors and members of delegated committees are entitled, under section 40 of the
Local Government Act 2020 (the Act), to reimbursement of expenses reasonably incurred
in the performance of their duties.
Council Expense Policy This Document is Uncontrolled when Printed Responsible Officer: Director Business Strategy and Performance
This policy ensures that the reimbursement of these expenses is in accordance with the
Act and meets the Act’s principles of public transparency; achieving the best outcomes for
the municipal community; and ensuring the ongoing financial viability of the Council.
Councillors and members of delegated committees will be reimbursed for out-of-pocket
expenses that are:
Bona fide expenses and
have been reasonably incurred in the performance of the role of Councillor and
are reasonably necessary for the Councillor and member of a delegated committee
to perform their role.
Staff
In the ordinary course of business Yarriambiack Shire Council staff may find it necessary
to incur expenditure on behalf of the business, or incur expenditure as a result of attending
professional development and/or training away from their normal place of work.
Council will reimburse expenses reasonably incurred in the performance of their duties.
Audit and Risk Committee
As a member of the Audit and Risk Committee it may be necessary to attend training and
conferences that are specific to Local Government or travel to attend meetings.
Council will reimburse expenses reasonably incurred for travel.
Council will reimburse the cost of training and conferences as agreed by the Audit and Risk
Committee via motion recorded in the meeting minutes.
Carer and dependent-related expenses
Council will provide reimbursement of costs where the provision of childcare is reasonably
required for a Councillor or member of a delegated committee to perform their role (s
41(2)(c)).
This applies to the care of a dependent, while the Councillor or delegated committee
member is undertaking their official duties; and may include expenses such as hourly fees
and booking fees, if applicable.
Council will provide reimbursement of costs where the provision of carer services is
reasonably required when a Councillor or delegated committee member who is a carer
(see Definitions) incurs reasonable expenses in the performance of their duties.
Payments for carer and childcare services will not be made to a person who resides with
the Councillor or delegated committee member; has any financial or pecuniary interest
with the Councillor or delegated committee member; or has a relationship with the
Councillor, delegated committee member or their partner.
Allowances
Allowances paid to Mayors, Deputy Mayors and Councillors is in accordance with section
39 of the Act. The entitlement to be received is determined by the Victorian Independent
Remuneration Tribunal under the Victorian Independent Remuneration Tribunal and
Improving Parliamentary Standards Act 2019.
Council may pay a sitting fee to the Chair and Independent Members of an Audit and Risk
Committee. This fee is reviewed as part of Council’s annual budget process, will be subject
to annual CPI indexation (All groups, CPI weighted average of eight capital cities) and set
by a motion of Council annually each year.
In addition, each independent member is entitled to claim up to $500.00 per annum in
travel expenses based on the kilometre rate set by the Commissioner of Taxation.
This Policy does not include staff allowances which are paid in accordance with the
Enterprise Agreement and Council Policies.
Council Expense Policy This Document is Uncontrolled when Printed Responsible Officer: Director Business Strategy and Performance
5 Definitions
Carer: A carer is defined under section 4 of the Carers Recognition Act 2012.
Delegated Committee: Delegated committees are defined under section 63 of the Local
Government Act 2020.
Council Expense Policy This Document is Uncontrolled when Printed Responsible Officer: Director Business Strategy and Performance
Procedure
1 Expense Reimbursement
Motor Vehicle and Travel
The reimbursement rate for staff travel is in accordance with the Yarriambiack Shire
Council Enterprise Agreement. This rate is also to be applied to Councillors and committee
member reimbursement claims.
Travel reimbursed will be based on the shortest route.
Councillor Remoteness Factor
The Remoteness Factor Allowance is paid in addition to the general motor vehicle travel
allowance as follows:
Where a Councillor normally resides more than 50 kilometres by the shortest possible
practicable road distance, from the location or locations specified for the conduct of
ordinary, special or committee meetings of the council or any municipal or community
functions which have been authorised by council resolution for the Councillor to attend, he
or she shall be entitled to and shall be paid an additional allowance of $40 in respect of
each meeting or function actually attended by that Councillor, up to a maximum of $2,000
per annum.
Conferences, Meetings, Training and Seminars
Council will provide and/or reimburse Councillors, delegated committee members, staff
and the Audit and Risk Committee members to attend conferences, meetings, training or
seminars which have been authorised by Yarriambiack Shire Council or as determined by
the Chief Executive Officer and the Mayor as follows:
1.3.1 Registration fees
The payment of registration fees for attendance at approved conferences, seminars and
training sessions.
1.3.2 Conference Dinner/Meals
Payment for the main conference seminar dinner, if not covered by registration cost,
together with all meals, within reasonable limits, for the duration of the conference or
seminar.
Refer to section 1.4 of this Procedure which outlines the amount to be reimbursed in
relation to staff Meals.
1.3.3 Accommodation
The payment of accommodation costs on the following basis:
Accommodation, dinner and breakfast costs.
Any additional accommodation costs incurred as a result of the attendance of
partners and/or children shall be borne by the attendee.
If payment is made by the individual, then the expenses can be claimed through the
expense claim method. The accommodation reimbursement amount is capped at $200 per
night per individual, unless approved by the CEO or the Mayor in advance.
1.3.4 Car Parking Fees
Council will meet the cost of the following car parking fees:
Hotel/motel parking - additional car parking fees not included in accommodation
cost.
Airport parking, costs included in the parking of a private vehicle at an airport for
the duration of the conference, meeting, training or seminar.
Council Expense Policy This Document is Uncontrolled when Printed Responsible Officer: Director Business Strategy and Performance
Council Expense Policy This Document is Uncontrolled when Printed Responsible Officer: Director Business Strategy and Performance
Council Expense Policy This Document is Uncontrolled when Printed Responsible Officer: Director Business Strategy and Performance
Legislation:
Carers Recognition Act 2012
Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006
Freedom of Information Act 1982
Local Government Act 2020
Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014
Equal Opportunity Act 2010
Gender Equity Bill 2020
6 Superseded Policies
Councillor Expense Entitlement Policy 2017
Human Resource Policy and Guideline Manual – Guideline – Expense Reimbursement
Council Expense Policy This Document is Uncontrolled when Printed Responsible Officer: Director Business Strategy and Performance
Name:
Position / Role:
Date of Claim:
Expense Claim
GL Code Description Amount GST TOTAL
(Exc. GST)
TOTAL
Travel Claim
Destination (To and From) Km’s Was this the shortest and
Travelled most direct route?
YES ☐ NO ☐
YES ☐ NO ☐
YES ☐ NO ☐
TOTAL KM’s TRAVELLED
If Answering No to the shortest and most direct route, please state why the alternative route was taken:
Council Expense Policy This Document is Uncontrolled when Printed Responsible Officer: Director Business Strategy and Performance
Signature of Claimant:
Expense reimbursements will be paid by direct deposit to your nominated bank account as identified below:
Name of Account BSB Account Number
Approved:
Manager / Director Approval (Staff): Signature:
Council Expense Policy This Document is Uncontrolled when Printed Responsible Officer: Director Business Strategy and Performance
Name
Position / Role:
Commencement Date:
Address:
Town:
Postcode:
Please nominate name of account you wish for your entitlements to be paid into:
Asset Allocation
Council Expense Policy This Document is Uncontrolled when Printed Responsible Officer: Director Business Strategy and Performance
SUMMARY
An Information Communication Technology (ICT) Acceptable Use Policy has been
developed to provide Councillors, staff and contractors with guidance on the appropriate
and acceptable use of Yarriambiack Shire Council’s ICT assets.
The aim of this policy is to provide a governance framework for acceptable use, which
manages risks and ensures Council’s ICT resources are only utilised to support the
business activities and objectives of Council.
RECOMMENDATION:
That Council adopt the Information Communication Technology Acceptable Use Policy.
ATTACHMENTS
Information Communication Technology Acceptable Use Policy.
DISCUSSION
ICT is incorporated into the majority of business activities Council undertakes. Whilst ICT
can be a beneficial tool to meet business objectives in an efficient manner, there are risks
associated with its use.
Council has established protocols around acceptable use and behaviour when utilising
Council’s ICT assets. The policy aims to reduce the risk of inappropriate use of Council’s
resources.
RELEVANT LAW
The Local Government Act 2020 (Vic) requires Council’s to give effect to the overarching
Governance principles. The policy establishes aGgovernance framework in which staff,
Councillors and contractors must adhere too.
COUNCIL PLANS AND POLICIES
Council Plan 2017-2021
Strategic Objective 1 – Good Governance.
This policy has been developed based on best practice guidance and to manage Council’s
strategic and operational risks.
RELATED COUNCIL DECISIONS
Not applicable
OPTIONS
Not applicable
SUSTAINABILITY IMPLICATIONS
The subject matter of this report does not raise any sustainability implications.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Not applicable
RISK
Utilising the Risk Management Framework 2019, the following assessment has been
made:
1. Objective
Yarriambiack Shire Council’s Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) resources
are to be used in an ethical and efficient manner within a sound governance framework,
thereby enabling Council’s assets to be appropriately managed within acceptable risk
tolerances. A key underpinning goal of this approach is to ensure users of ICT resources
behave in ways that support the business activities and objectives of Council.
This policy aims to ensure that Council’s ICT resources are used:
a) Appropriately and efficiently.
b) To assist Council to effectively deliver quality, value for money services.
c) To not create or increase risk to Council, Council employees, Councillors, Contractors
and third parties.
d) In accordance with other policies, legislation, standards and best business practices.
e) Managed with sound consistent governance across Council.
2. Responsibility
This Policy applies to all Council employees, consultants, Councillors, contracted external
staff, patrons and or service providers.
It is the responsibility of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Directors and Managers to
ensure compliance with this Policy.
3. Policy Statement and Scope
3.1 ICT Resources
The provision of Council owned ICT resources are to be used for officially approved
purposes only. Limited personal use of ICT resources is available only in accordance with
the uses outlined in this Policy and supporting Procedures.
Council employees, consultants, contracted external service providers and Councillors are
all required to use Council ICT resources in accordance with this Policy, associated
Procedures and Employee and Councillor Code of Conduct.
All access to ICT resources is granted on the basis of business need and may be revoked
at Management discretion.
All ICT resource users must be aware of:
a) Types of ICT resources.
b) Authorised, unauthorised and unlawful/criminal use of Council resources.
c) Business rules regarding use of each resource.
Serious breaches of this Policy and associated Procedures will be referred to the applicable
Manager and/or Director for consideration and action taken in accordance with the Human
Resource Policy and Guidelines Manual.
3.2 Council Responsibilities
The provision of Council ICT resources is for officially approved purposes. When managing
and monitoring the use of ICT resources, Council must:
a) Ensure users are aware and understand Council Policies, Procedures, Practices and
their responsibilities.
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b) Ensure disciplinary procedures imposed on users for breaches of use are clear,
unambiguous, proportionate to the offence and are applied in a manner which is in
accordance with the principles of natural justice.
c) Ensure that employees are aware that intentionally accessing, downloading, storing
or distributing pornography or other material which could be reasonably expected to
cause offence, or breaches the principles contained in the Employee Code of Conduct
is a matter for which disciplinary action is taken.
d) Minimise security risks including disruption to Council operations and unauthorised
use (intentional or unintentional) by employees.
e) Address issues relating to record keeping, archiving, right to information, privacy
and audit requirements.
f) Ensure any breaches discovered are thoroughly investigated and all issues identified
and addressed.
g) Develop and implement procedures for reporting potential breaches of Council policy
or the law to relevant authorities.
h) Ensure that sufficient resources are made available for the above to be carried out
effectively.
3.3 Authorised Use of ICT Resources
The Council's ICT resources are:
a) Provided to Councillors, staff and contractors to conduct official business and
professional development more effectively and efficiently.
b) To be utilised only for defined use outlined in this policy.
c) To be authorised by the relevant Director and/or CEO and used in accordance with
Council policies and procedures, applicable laws and regulations.
d) Provided to employees and Councillors and able to survive public scrutiny and/or
disclosure.
e) Not to be used to bypass established and/or official channels of communication as
defined by Council reporting relationships.
f) Monitored and logged by the ICT contractor in accordance with Council’s Policies and
Procedures and under the supervision of the Director Business Strategy and
Performance.
g) Subject to the Council's recordkeeping, archiving, right to information, information
privacy and auditing requirements.
h) Able to be restricted or revoked at any time.
Authorised Official Use
Official use of Council owned or provided ICT resources means usage undertaken for a
business need to assist in carrying out the work of Council.
Official use includes in general:
a) Conduct of work related business.
b) Access to work related information.
c) Communication with colleagues on work related matters.
d) Communication outside the work environment on work related matters.
Official use is permitted under the following conditions and limitations:
a) Usage takes place while you are either employed, contracted or are an elected official
in the service of Council.
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user. The user must be mindful that although some limited personal use is authorised,
such devices can be reallocated for operational purposes to another user.
Limited use is permitted under the following conditions and limitations:
a) Incurs minimal additional expense to Council.
b) Does not interfere with the operation of Council.
c) Is only permitted where it has a minimal impact upon email and internet resources.
d) Does not violate any Council policy or related State/Federal legislation.
e) Use may only occur during an employee's own time.
f) Privilege of use will be monitored and may be restricted or revoked at any time.
Directors and Managers are responsible for monitoring usage.
g) Use does not place unnecessary or excessive burden on Council resources, e.g. large
scale emailing or mass storage or transmission of electronic files.
h) Limited personal use of other ICT resources i.e. phone, mobile phone, facsimile and
SOE, is generally expected to take place during the authorised user's non-work time.
i) Personal calls are only permitted on mobile phones under emergency and/or
important family circumstances. Excluded Call Types are not permitted for personal
use under any circumstances. For users with a valid business requirement to access
excluded call types, Director’s authorisation is required. For all exemptions, the
user’s Director is responsible for monitoring usage and ensuring suitability of use
and continued business need. Directorates will also be responsible for funding all
costs incurred from these exemptions.
j) Usage of facilities which are provided by third parties at an expense to Council
(including internet, email, mobile telephones and online applications) are subject to
reporting to and monitoring by Directors and the Office of the CEO to ensure fair and
equitable usage and that additional contract costs are not incurred by Council. End
users may have their access moderated, restricted or revoked if they are deemed to
be excessively utilising services for personal use.
k) Will withstand public scrutiny and not bring an employee of the Council, a Councillor
or Council into disrepute.
l) Use does not include maintaining or supporting a private business enterprise and/or
use for personal gain or profit.
m) Any information created, transmitted or stored for personal purposes will not be the
responsibility of the Council.
n) Information resulting from personal usage will be subject to scrutiny and/or audit at
any time.
o) Any unsolicited inappropriate material from the internet or through an email is to be
deleted immediately from Council systems.
Examples of Limited Use include, but are not limited to (some activities are subject to Director
approval):
a) Completing an internal job application.
b) Using the internet to access white/yellow pages online.
c) Using the internet for personal online banking. This excludes any activities relating
to a private business enterprise and/or online share trading.
d) Conducting searches over the internet on appropriate and ethical topics that will not
cause embarrassment or harm to the Council, during own time on authorised breaks.
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e) Reading personal internet based email is open to scrutiny and must not be
inappropriate, unlawful, or criminal, and must not relate to a private business
enterprise. This should be limited to authorised breaks only, during own time.
f) Printing a copy of an internet web page or email.
g) One off, local calls made from Council telephones for domestic purposes.
Unauthorised or Inappropriate Use
Unauthorised or inappropriate use of Council owned or provided ICT resources:
a) Usage which infringes copyright.
b) Involves creating, downloading, storing, viewing or distributing obscene, indecent,
offensive or sexually explicit material or material unbecoming to propriety.
c) Contains untrue information that is likely to damage the reputation of a person in
their profession or trade or by which other persons are likely to be induced to shun
or avoid or ridicule or despise the person.
d) Downloading non-business related digital music (e.g. MP3), video (e.g. MPEG) files,
applications or images using Council provided data.
e) Contains material or images that may offend the recipient or others who may view
it.
f) Bullies or harasses another person or is of a violent nature.
g) Expresses a view or commits Council to a course of action that is outside your
delegated power.
h) Discriminates against a person on the basis of the person’s age, race, gender,
religion, marital status, sexual preferences or other unlawfully discriminatory
attributes.
i) Contains Internet addresses or links to material or sites that contain any of the
unacceptable content cited above.
j) Any use that bypasses established and/or official channels of communication as
defined by Council reporting relationships including the settlement of personal
disputes.
k) Campaigning for personal gain.
l) Failing to undertake Council security procedures such as virus checking when
downloading files and/or software and sharing and/or distributing network or
application access passwords.
m) Any use that would interfere with the day-to-day operations of the Council and places
an unnecessary or excessive burden on Council resources, e.g. large-scale emailing
or mass storage or transmission of electronic files.
n) Council’s call transfer service must not be used to transfer private calls in such a way
that Council ends up paying for the cost of the private call.
o) Usage of and access to Excluded Call Types.
p) When allocated to a role (position) rather than to individuals, mobile phones are NOT
to be used for personal calls.
q) Any unauthorised use that is not lawful, criminal or unethical, including usage outside
permitted conditions and limitations for official, professional or limited personal
purposes.
Council employees, Councillors and Contractors alleged to have inappropriately used
Council ICT resources to create, download, store, view or distribute obscene, indecent,
offensive or sexually explicit material or material unbecoming to propriety, e.g.,
pornography, will be referred to Council's CEO for investigation. This may result in the
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taking of disciplinary action. Any attempt to subvert existing security controls, both
internal and external to Council will be noted and included in any action taken.
Examples of Unauthorised / Inappropriate Use include, but are not limited to:
a) Viewing, creating, downloading, storing or distributing materials in the workplace
which are inappropriate, indecent, obscene or sexually explicit, e.g., pornography.
b) Taking inappropriate pictures with cameras or mobile phone cameras.
c) Using Council phones to call private mobile phone numbers where it is not an
emergency situation.
d) Any use that incurs additional data charges to Council including but not limited to
‘tethering’ of data devices and using Council-supplied mobile data as a replacement
for a private internet connection.
e) Forwarding inappropriate jokes, image/sound/movie files, e.g., .WAV and .MPG files.
f) Conducting private business enterprises for personal gain or profit.
g) Downloading, storing or distributing material such as chain letters or information
pertaining to pyramid schemes.
h) Creating and/or maintaining personal websites.
i) Knowingly downloading files from the Internet or storage media containing malicious
code, viruses, Trojan horses, worms or Spyware that may cause harm to Council.
j) Making telephone or mobile telephone calls to subscription numbers (e.g., 1900
numbers) or overseas/IDD numbers where specific exemption has not been
authorised.
k) Failing to keep Council passwords secure.
l) Expressing a view to the media outside of an authorised delegation.
m) Disrupting other ICT resources through such means as mass mailing, storage or
transmission of large files or any other unnecessary activity that may place a burden
on Council resources.
n) Sending unauthorised Global emails.
Unlawful and Criminal Use
Unlawful and/or criminal use of Council owned or provided ICT resources is use which
violates State or Federal law and/or the Criminal Code Act 1899.
Unlawful and/or criminal use of Council owned or provided ICT resources by users will be
subject to either criminal, official misconduct or other disciplinary proceedings against
them.
Criminal and/or Unlawful Use may include:
a) Publicly selling inappropriate / indecent / obscene / sexually explicit material such
as pornography.
b) Exposing any inappropriate / indecent / obscene / sexually explicit material to an
area where it may be publicly viewed.
c) Breaching copyright laws such as illegally copying movies, music, software programs
or storing any files which you do not have explicit rights to copy, modify or store on
the Council’s network or using a Council supplied device or connection such as but
not limited to music files.
d) Attempting to intercept, alter or steal data in order to harm Council or for personal
gain.
e) Leaking confidential Council information to the media.
f) Creating or assisting in creating a computer virus.
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g) Email mailboxes have a size restriction placed on them to maintain effective and
efficient mail transfer and storage of business related email. Users will manage their
individual mailboxes to maintain the size limitation as specified by authorised
officers.
3.5 Standard Operating Environment
The SOE for end-user devices is a group of configurable hardware, software and services
designed to provide Councillors, employees, contractors with a secure, functional and cost
effective platform to perform their duties.
The SOE is in place to optimise support for users to carry out their required functions for
business purposes balanced against an excessive support burden.
The SOE is implemented in accordance with Council’s ICT Strategy and Business
Transformation Strategy.
User Responsibilities
a) All users must comply with this policy, other relevant policies and supporting policy
instruments.
b) Council owned end-user and peripheral devices may only be connected to the
corporate network via access methods authorised by the Director Business Strategy
and Performance.
c) Legacy and other non-SOE equipment which is Council owned but not a current SOE
component may only be used with the prior approval of the Director Business
Strategy and Performance. Conditions may be attached to such use including an
approved expiry date and reduced support levels.
d) Any relocation of computer equipment must be advised in advance of the move and
an assigned move date set with the ICT Contractor who is tasked with the
responsibility of asset management, life-cycling, device disconnection and
reconnection. The physical moves and any ergonomic enhancements are the
responsibility of the end-user’s department.
d) Use of the SOE by third parties (e.g. community groups, outsourced service delivery
organisations, alliances, etc.) may only occur with the prior approval of the Director
Business Strategy and Performance.
e) Council supports sustainable business practices. Unless there is a valid operational
reason for the equipment remaining on, Council PCs, laptops/notebooks and other
computing devices must be powered off at close of business to minimise power usage
and to ensure daily update.
f) Council laptops/notebooks, iPads and mobile phones should be stored in a secured
location, at minimum removed from public view at the end of the business day, if
they remain overnight at a Council location.
g) Council laptops/notebooks, iPads and mobile phones used outside Council premises
are to be kept secure.
3.6 Telephones, Mobile Phones, Scanning, Photocopy Machine
Authorised users of the Council telephone, scanning, photocopy machines and mobile
phones may include employees and others engaged in activities on Council’s behalf, as
well as external business entities and their employees.
Council owned equipment means owned, leased, hired, or loaned equipment.
This acknowledges that there are risks and costs associated with telephone, scanning,
photocopying and mobile phone usage, which Council seeks to minimise, such as loss of
reputation and financial risk. They also establish corporate standards related to the way
this aspect of the ‘face of Council’ is portrayed to the general community.
Councillors’ mobile phone entitlements are described in the Council Expense Policy.
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Staff Mobile Phone usage and entitlements are described in the Mobile Phone Policy and
Mobile Phone Procedure.
Telephone Features Requiring Approval:
International Direct Dialling (IDD) and ‘Voice Mail’, ‘Call Diversion to an external number’
and Mobile Extension must be approved by the requestor’s Director.
Mobile Features Requiring Approval:
IDD, mobile data services, Multimedia Message Service (MMS) and / or Global Roaming
must be approved by the requesting officer’s Director.
User Responsibilities
a) All users must comply with this policy, other relevant policies and supporting policy
instruments.
b) Council owned mobile telephone SIM cards must not be removed or transferred to
other phones without authorisation from the Director Business Strategy and
Performance.
c) Any relocation of Telephone, Scanning, Photocopying equipment must be advised in
advance of the move and an assigned move date set with the ICT Contractor who is
tasked with the responsibility of asset management, life-cycling, device
disconnection and reconnection.
d) Council owned mobile phone devices are not to be left unattended in motor vehicles
unless mounted to the vehicle.
e) Users may be held personally responsible for the cost of any loss or damage of ICT
equipment when such loss or damage exceeds normal wear and tear and can be
attributed to negligence. All loss or damage to be reported to the Director Business
Strategy and Performance.
3.7 Software
Copying of any software program or data sets that are subject to a licence agreement is
prohibited, except for the purposes of backup or installation by Council authorised officers.
No user of licensed software or data sets may move beyond the provisions of the licensing
arrangement when using these software or data sets.
No software program or data set that could be subject to a licence agreement and which
exists on a device that is not owned or leased by Council may be copied to any
programmable device that is owned or leased by Council, except where this is done by
persons who have been authorised to carry out these tasks.
Software or data sets that relate to the configuration of any programmable device that is
owned or leased by Council may only be modified or in any way changed by Council officers
who have been authorised to perform these tasks. Exceptions include:
• Where the changes are authorised changes to the personalisation of the
programmable device.
• Software application within the functionality of the application and accessible to the
user.
Where software and data set configurations represent part of Council’s Corporate Memory,
those authorised to install and maintain these files must ensure that a system is in place
to preserve this Corporate Information and comply with legislative standards.
The software and data set provisions of this policy are concerned with managing copyright
and corruption and security risks to Council’s software and data, where this software and
data is operated on any Council owned or leased programmable device.
User Responsibilities
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a) All users must comply with this policy, other relevant policies and supporting policy
instruments.
b) No Council employee, Councillor or contractor shall knowingly breach a software
licensing agreement for any software or data that is owned or leased by Council. It
is the responsibility of the user concerned to ensure that no breach of licensing or
copyright arrangement occurs.
c) Only authorised officers can install software that is to run on any of Council’s leased
or owned programmable devices. For Council owned or leased programmable devices
that run the Standard Operating Environment for desktop or mobile communications
devices, software and data files will be installed from a central location by an
authorised person.
d) Staff may be granted special authorisation as Power Users of specific applications to
install executable files for their specific applications. Under no circumstances are
Power Users permitted to download software from external sites.
e) Council owned or licensed software or licensed data must only be stored on a
programmable device or electronic storage device that is authorised by Council.
f) Software and data can be made available on a licensed basis, for example, operating
system software or on a non-licensed basis, for example, Internet cookies.
g) All data leased, licensed or owned by Council must be backed up through a means
which complies with Council Policy.
h) Only an authorised person may make changes to the Operating Software or
Application Software configuration. No downloads of screensavers or other programs
from the Internet are permitted. No unauthorised deletions, additions or
customisations may be made to the software on programmable devices that are
owned or leased by Council.
i) The Director Business Strategy and Performance will ensure that an authorised
person is available to make any necessary changes to the configuration of any of
Council’s programmable devices that run the SOE.
3.8 Remote Access Service
Remote Access Service (RAS) is the ability to access the Council network from another
location (i.e. home or non-networked site). It is used by a number of Council staff to
access their network files, applications and email. This policy supports the delivery of
business needs covered in the ICT Strategy.
The remote access provisions of this policy set the parameters within which access to
Council’s data network via remote connection can be achieved. The purpose is to keep
operational costs to a minimum and reduce risk to council.
a) Remote access will be made available:
• On a business needs assessment basis.
• Using Council’s corporately provided remote access solutions.
b) Under no circumstances will remote access be available on a BYOD laptop / iPad or
desk top computer.
c) Remote access to Council’s individual staff email accounts will be available via a
Microsoft 365 platform. This access has the ability to be restricted at any time.
d) Staff utilising the BYOD mobile phone scheme will be required to download applicable
applications to monitor security and perform work tasks as outlined in the Mobile
Phone Procedure.
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User Responsibilities
a) All users must comply with this policy, other relevant policies and supporting policy
instruments.
b) All remote users are required to notify their manager and ICT Contractor, immediately
they no longer require access privileges.
c) Under no circumstances will an unauthorised user be permitted to use an authorised
user’s end-user device and authentication key/login.
d) Council laptops/notebooks should be switched off or in hibernation mode when not in
use, to prevent unauthorised access to the Council network and to support
sustainable business practices.
4. Definitions
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Term - Meaning
Email System - A software application that provides services related
to the transmission and receipt of electronic messages.
End-user Devices - End-user devices are defined as Standard
desktop computer, Standard notebook (portable) computer, various
computer (PC) models, other mobile computing devices, printers,
smart phones etc.
Excluded Call Types - Call types which are not included in Council’s
current mobile phone contract access fee and for which additional
charges are payable.
External Entity - An independent organisation with which Council has
a contractual arrangement and which is provided with equipment that
is serviced by Council.
Global Email - Email communications that are sent out to the entire
organisation. Such email must be authorised by a Director.
ICT Contractor – DWM solutions, externally appointed contractor.
ICT Resources - ICT resources include but is not limited to:
• Computers (including laptops, notebooks, tablet PCs, Personal
Digital Assistants and handheld devices);
• Electronic storage devices;
• Telecommunications (including provisioned phone
lines/connections, telephones, mobile phones, pagers, facsimiles,
message banks, voice mail, modems, data communication devices
and data cabling);
• Radios (or any other frequency devices);
• Television sets (including LCD and plasma screens);
• Video and imaging equipment;
• Digital or analogue recording devices (including tape, DVD, video
recorders);
• Cameras (including mobile phones with cameras);
• Printers, copiers and digital scanners;
• Internet services (including http, ftp and telnet, peer to peer,
video-streaming);
• Email services;
• Web based portals; and
• Fee based services.
Internet - The worldwide loose affiliation of interconnected computer
systems, through which users can navigate to obtain services and
share information at various levels of detail with globally dispersed
organisations and individuals.
Malicious Software (Malware) - Software is considered malware
based on the perceived intent of the creator rather than any particular
features. Malware includes computer viruses, worms, most rootkits,
spyware, dishonest adware, and other malicious and unwanted
software.
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5. Supersedes
a) Mobile Phone Policy and Procedure, adopted 2017
b) Information Systems Policy 2017
c) Internet, Email, PC IPad Policy
6. References
• Mobile Phone Procedure
• Mobile Phone Policy
• Media and Communications Policy
• Information Privacy Policy
• Employee Code of Conduct
• Human Resource Policy and Guidelines Manual
• Councillor Code of Conduct
• Council Expense Policy
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Policy Adopted:
Policy Reviewed:
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Agenda
SUMMARY
This report to council will discuss the removal of a Community Asset policy set up in 2006
that no longer is relevant with the new Local Government Act 2020 and the introduction
of the new Leasing and Licence policy.
RECOMMENDATION:
That Council rescinds the Community Asset Policy
ATTACHMENTS
Community Asset policy 2006
DISCUSSION
In 2006 Council developed a policy for Community Assets of Council, the policy covered
legal agreements between Council and committees of Management and other aspects of
community asset management by local committees
The policy discusses transfer of title to community groups and railway stations under the
Public Transport Corporation now known as VicTrack. Council now holds leases not
community organisations as mentioned in the policy.
RELEVANT LAW
Section 65 and 115 of the Local Government Act 2020 sets out the way Council should
now manage Community Assets and Leases.
COUNCIL PLANS AND POLICIES
The new Leases and Licences Policy will cover this area.
RELATED COUNCIL DECISIONS
Not applicable
OPTIONS
Retain and update the Community Asset Policy.
SUSTAINABILITY IMPLICATIONS
Discuss whether the subject matter of the report raises any sustainability implications.
• Economic
Management of Council assets sets up Council to meet future budget considerations
and plan for cyclical maintenance and capital replacement of those assets
• Social
All current committees will be involved in the community consultation process of
the changes under the new act and policies being developed. These changes will
assist the community to understand how council manages its assets and their roles
within the process.
• Environmental
Nil
• Climate change
NIL
• Financial
Review of old policies and replacement of these with current policies that include
all legislative changes and relevant acts reduces financial risk to Council of poor
management of its assets.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
All communities will be engaged as part of the new community assets and delegated
committee changes over the next 6 months.
RISK
Reduction in risk by removing out of date policy with current legislative and best practice
policies and procedures.
Utilising the Risk Management Framework 2019, the following assessment has been made:
Low Moderate Review of old policies that Policy removed and replaced
may expose Council to with up to date policy.
risk due to incorrect
legislative being referred
to and use of incorrect
terminology
1 OBJECTIVES
2 PREAMBLE
3 ISSUES
pp.1.policy.commassets 1
4 CATEGORIES OF ASSETS
• Sole occupancy
• Museums
Wheatlands
81 Scott Street, Warracknabeal
Corrong Station Homestead
Water Tower Murtoa
• Tennis Courts
Areegra (no longer used)
Brim East
Lubeck
Rupanyup
Galaquil East
pp.1.policy.commassets 2
• Bowling Greens
Brim
Rupanyup (C)
Woomelang
• Halls
Warracknabeal
Brim
Sheep Hills
Brownies Hall Minyip
Hopetoun
Tempy
Lascelles
• Aerodromes
Warracknabeal
Hopetoun
Patchewollock (C)
• Other Reserves
Minyip Manure Depot - Dunmunkle Lodge Sewerage Lagoons
Rabl Park Murtoa (C)
Tempy Memorial Park
Werrigar Native Flora Reserve Warracknabeal (Rifle Range) (C)
Rupanyup Lake Reserve (C)
• Multiple Occupancy
• Land unsubdivided and used by a number of different groups
Evelyn St Hopetoun - swimming Pool, tennis courts, Scout Hall,
bowling club
• Recreation Reserves
Willenabrina (C)
Rupanyup
Marma Lake Reserve (C)
Hopetoun
Lascelles
Beulah Camping/Recreation Reserve (C)
pp.1.policy.commassets 3
5 POLICY
pp.1.policy.commassets 4
(b) Multiple occupancy
If the reserve is used by one group only the responsible group will
become the appointed Committee of Management.
The various community groups operating from the reserve must ensure
they have adequate public liability as the Crown Public Liability may not
apply to the user group.
pp.1.policy.commassets 5
Agenda
SUMMARY
This report discusses a policy developed in 1998 by Council to set up a framework for
management of its housing developments and housing needs in the area.
The policy is out of date and will be superseded by the new Leases and Licence Policy and
the new Local Government Act 2020.
RECOMMENDATION:
That Council rescind the Housing Policy 1998
ATTACHMENTS
Housing Policy 1998
DISCUSSION
In February 1998 Council developed and adopted the Housing Policy to document its role
in public housing.
The policy was developed to provide a framework for managing the two housing unit’s
developments Council owns and to discuss housing needs in the region at that time.
A section of the policy states “Ownership of existing developments will be divested to the
community committee of management or an approved charitable/welfare organisation
within two years.”
Clearly this has not occurred and with the Local Government act 2020 the section on direct
provision of management is also redundant as it talks about the section 86 committees.
The policy also discusses rentals and management of the units.
We are about to introduce the new Leases and Licences Policy and review Council’s
committees of managements so it is time this policy was rescinded as the new policy will
cover most of the details and if Council wants a policy specifically on the future of public
housing it needs to be separate to this.
RELEVANT LAW
Section 65 and 115 of the Local Government Act 2020
COUNCIL PLANS AND POLICIES
Not Applicable
RELATED COUNCIL DECISIONS
Nil
OPTIONS
The policy has incorrect Council actions that have not taken place. With the new Act and
policies being introduced they will cover and inform Council and the communities into the
future.
SUSTAINABILITY IMPLICATIONS
Discuss whether the subject matter of the report raises any sustainability implications.
• Economic
Nil
• Social
The communities with housing units will be consulted as part of the changes
currently being implemented so this decision will assist in this process.
• Environmental
Nil
• Climate change
Nil
• Financial
Nil
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Housing committees are being consulted as part of this process currently this decision
does not require further consultation.
RISK
Assess the risk for the decision.
Utilising the Risk Management Framework 2019, the following assessment has been made:
pp.1.policy.housing 1
POLICY: HOUSING
Purpose
Rationale
POLICY
Council’s role in public housing will involve participation in the following areas:-
pp.1.policy.housing 2
3. FACILITATION OF HOUSING OUTCOMES
Council currently holds title for two Community housing projects, at Murtoa and
Woomelang. These units are managed locally by Committees of Management that
are Section 86 Committees of Council.
pp.1.policy.housing 3
SECTION 86 HOUSING COMMITTEES
Tenant Management
1. Tenant selection
• All vacancies should be widely advertised within that community and district
to ensure a maximum number of people within the target group are given an
opportunity to apply.
• The process of tenant selection should be clearly stated in writing and
should be available to the public and to all applicants.
• The selection process should involve a representative from council or an
approved independent person to provide a level of public accountability.
2. Tenant Agreements
4. Conflict Resolution
pp.1.policy.housing 4
Property Maintenance
The committee must have an a protocol for responding to and documenting tenant
maintenance requests and to determine the priority level of maintenance.
• Payment of all expenses including all rates, water rates, Property and
Public Liability Insurance.
• Providing Council with quarterly and annual financial Statements.
• Produce rolling five year budgets in line with Council’s budget preparation
program.
• Following up on rent arrears and reporting difficulties to council.
Policy Development
pp.1.policy.housing 5
Agenda
SUMMARY
Council and the Woomelang community have been working together to improve the
Cronomby Tanks site for several years as a tourism attraction. VicTrack have asked Council
to consider leasing the top part of the tank area and adjoining bushland as a project with
Landcare.
RECOMMENDATION:
That Council approves negotiation with VicTrack for the least at LOT 40, Woomelang
ATTACHMENTS
1. Satellite image of area
2. History / Background
DISCUSSION
Council currently leases a number of VicTrack properties on behalf of community groups
across the shire.
Lot 40, Woomelang had been offered to Council by VicTrack for lease This is an area that
holds the northern dam and land to the east of Cronomby tanks that Council and the
Woomelang community currently are working on as a tourism site for development.
Landcare has offered to work with Council to maintain site and this would allow further
improvements to the site and access for the community.
RELEVANT LAW
Section 115 and 57 in the Local Government Act 2020 cover leases and public
transparency. This recommendation to Council enables us to record in the minutes for
public observation Council’s decision on to lease VicTrack land.
COUNCIL PLANS AND POLICIES
Council’s Strategic Plan 2017-2021 GOAL 1 Good Governance aims to provide a well-
managed and service focus organisations.
1.1 Good Governance through Leadership: Ensure policies and good governance are in
accordance with legislative requirements and best practice.
RELATED COUNCIL DECISIONS
Decisions to lease VicTrack land at other locations have had Council affix seal to those
leases.
OPTIONS
As reported earlier under section 115 and 57.
SUSTAINABILITY IMPLICATIONS
Discuss whether the subject matter of the report raises any sustainability implications.
• Economic
Improving the site as a tourist location may have some positive impact for the
Woomelang community.
• Social
The Woomelang community will gain any benefits from tourism and assist in a town
that has lost other services to attract people to the area.
• Environmental
The project with Landcare will improve the environment for the future.
• Climate change
Maintaining the bushland site will reduce carbon emissions and assist to reduce
climate change.
• Financial
Council will work with VicTrack to reduce any financial costs of leasing the site for
community benefit.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
The community have been working with Council on the site, leasing from VicTrack has not
been discussed with the group, however the lease will allow the community to finish work
at the site.
RISK
Assess the risk for the decision.
Utilising the Risk Management Framework 2019, the following assessment has been made:
Medium Medium Use of public land without A formal lease with VicTrack
any agreement in place will ensure all areas of use
potentially places council and responsibility are
at risk of hidden costs covered
and public liability risk.
Attachment 1.
Attachment 2.
History / Background
All development so far has been funded through grants and council and local contributions engaging
with Vic Track we would not require funding through Vic Track but ask that rental be kept low to enable
the community to work towards maintaining the area and achieving the achieve the community vision.
Yarriambiack Shire Council would take up the lease and the Manager Community and Economic
Development Marianne Ferguson will assist the community to manage the site.
Council has a number of Vic Track leases at other locations it currently manages with community
support, all leases have been conducted within VicTrack rules and regulations.
The Director of Community Development and Wellbeing Gavin Blinman is the responsible for council
lease arrangements with VicTrack and would be the contact in this case.
SUMMARY
The Local Government Act 2020 Section 115 sets out Council responsibilities in managing
leases on Council property, this policy addresses all areas of Council owned assets and
RECOMMENDATION:
That Council approve the Leases and Licence Policy 2020.
ATTACHMENTS
Leases and Licence Policy 2020.
DISCUSSION
Council currently has on file 28 properties covering community and commercial use, many
have some form of agreement, MOU or lease in place. Some have only a committee of
management agreement.
To Correct this and have all properties in a common arrangement that is up to date and
meet legal requirements, we have sought legal advice and obtained a common lease that
can be used across a range of Council buildings and properties.
With the changes to the Local Government Act 2020 some of the previous arrangements
will not be carried forward and need new procedures in place.
We have done a search of Councils across the State and compiled a policy that covers all
issues that will need consideration in the future.
This policy will set out what type of arrangements will cover various property and building
types and responsibilities of council and tenants / user groups.
It is prescriptive in how Council staff manage their roles and responsibilities and includes
templates for hire agreements.
RELEVANT LAW
Section 115 of the Local Government Act 2020 sets out action required for Councils to
take in management of leases.
COUNCIL PLANS AND POLICIES
Councils Strategic Plan 2017-2021 GOAL 1 Good Governance aims to provide a well-
managed and service focus organisations.
1.1 Good Governance through Leadership: Ensure policies and good governance are in
accordance with legislative requirements and best practice.
RELATED COUNCIL DECISIONS
Nil
OPTIONS
Nil
SUSTAINABILITY IMPLICATIONS
Discuss whether the subject matter of the report raises any sustainability implications.
• Economic
Setting up the policy will ensure Community Assets have a return on investment
of considerations for future costs.
• Social
A clear policy for community groups and agencies looking to use council facilities
in the future is set out and will be communicated through community engagement
with all groups as part of the new Local Government Act.
• Environmental
Assets are managed with environmental impact considerations as part of this
policy.
• Climate change
Reduction of any climate change impact is part of responsible environmental
management.
• Financial
The lease amounts set are to be included as part of the budget process annually.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Over the next 6 months’ extensive community engagement will be conducted to
communicate this and other policy changes under the Local Government Act 2020.
RISK
Assess the risk for the decision.
Utilising the Risk Management Framework 2019, the following assessment has been made:
Version 0.1
Contents
1 Objective ................................................................................................... 3
2 Responsibility ........................................................................................... 3
3 Policy Statement and Scope ...................................................................... 4
Scope ...................................................................................................... 4
Policy Statement ....................................................................................... 4
Policy Context .......................................................................................... 4
Governance .............................................................................................. 4
Compliance with (DELWP) .......................................................................... 4
Licence of Roads, Road Reserves and Reserves ............................................. 5
Types of Agreements ................................................................................. 5
Asset Committees and Delegated Committees .............................................. 5
Expression of Interest (EOI) ....................................................................... 5
Occupancy Categories and Assessment for Rent ........................................ 6
Annual Reporting against Criteria ............................................................. 6
Terms and Conditions ............................................................................. 6
Maintenance .......................................................................................... 7
Capital Works- Improvements, Alterations and/or Additions ........................ 8
Length of Tenure ................................................................................... 8
Use of licence Rather than Lease.............................................................. 9
Use of Facility and Occasional Hire from Tenants........................................ 9
Hours of Use ......................................................................................... 9
Sub-leasing or Licensing ......................................................................... 9
Rates and Taxes .................................................................................... 9
Insurance ............................................................................................. 9
Liquor and Gaming Licence ....................................................................10
Legal Fees............................................................................................10
Keys and Locks .....................................................................................10
Planning Requirements ..........................................................................10
Removal of Assets .................................................................................10
Nuisance ..............................................................................................10
Social Media .........................................................................................10
Relocation ............................................................................................10
Waste Disposal .....................................................................................10
Occupational Health and Safety ..............................................................11
Lease and Licence Register ....................................................................11
4 Risk Management .................................................................................... 11
5 Definitions .............................................................................................. 11
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Leases and Licences Policy
Before Council can grant a lease or licence on Crown land, Council must first seek
Ministerial approval in-principle and final approval to lease or licence any Crown land from
DELWP. This is to ensure that the permitted use of the lease or licence is not contrary to
the ‘reserved purpose’ of the Crown land.
All leases or licenses entered into on Crown land must adhere to the:
a) Leasing Policy for Victorian Crown land May 2018.
b) Crown Land Leasing Guidelines 2012.
Both documents provide the framework and guidelines for the leasing of Crown land in
Victoria.
All agreements must be prepared on DELWP’s standard documentation.
Licence of Roads, Road Reserves and Reserves
Licence and lease applications will be individually assessed on a case by case basis, taking
into account:
a) Council’s Local Law, Management of Streets and Roads, Part 2.
b) Road Management Act 2004 (Vic); and
c) Identified risks specific to the request.
Types of Agreements
Council offers the following types of agreements to occupy Council managed facilities and
land:
a) Lease (exclusive occupation).
b) Sub-leases (exclusive occupation).
c) Licence (non-exclusive occupation).
d) Seasonal licence (non-exclusive occupation during winter season or summer season
(for example: football and cricket).
e) Casual Hire (occasional use of a facility, not regular bookings).
Asset Committees and Delegated Committees
The Asset Committees and Delegated Committees replace Section 86 Committees in the
Local Government Act 1989.
Asset Committees and Delegated Committees come into effect on 01 May 2020 in
accordance with the Local Government Act 2020, section 47 and 65.
Council may establish an Asset Committee to manage Council facilities within the Shire.
Community Groups cannot enter into leases or licences directly with an Asset Committee.
All agreements must be endorsed by Council.
Asset Committees are required to comply with and are governed by the Local Government
Act.
Expression of Interest (EOI)
Council may decide to conduct an EOI for the issue or renewal of a lease or licence that is
wholly or partly commercial in nature. The decision to conduct an EOI process for a
property will be based on factors including the following:
a) The likelihood of multiple interested applicants and users.
b) The size and location of the property.
c) The value of the property.
d) The expected rental return.
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Rent Appraisal
Market rent value
The market rental value of each property or licensed area will be identified and recorded
in the lease or licence documentation.
Rent subsidy
Council will subsidise rent for eligible tenants or licensees. Tenants and licensees will be
assessed against the eligibility criteria contained in Schedule 1.
Performance against these criteria and eligibility for rent subsidy will be reviewed before
the commencement of any new lease or licence. The rental categories are:
a) Peppercorn.
c) Discounted market rent.
d) Market rent.
Rent Review
Rental reviews will occur in accordance with the Agreement. This will generally occur when
a new term is entered into.
All Category A, B, C and D (as per Schedule 1) rent will be increased annually by the
Consumer Price Index – All Groups Melbourne as at 30 June each year, during the term of
a lease or licence.
All Category E (as per Schedule 1) rent will be increased annually by 3% during the term
of a Lease or Licence. On the exercise of any option for renewal the rent will be determined
by a certified practicing valuer at the current market rental.
Casual Hire Fees and Charges
Fees for Casual Hire will be charged in accordance with the fees and charges set out in
Council’s Annual Budget.
Seasonal Licence Charges
Seasonal licence fees are calculated in accordance with the rate set in Council’s Annual
Budget. Additionally, Seasonal Licensees are required to pay a contribution towards
utilities.
This contribution is calculated based on several factors including, but not limited to:
a) Size of facility;
b) Size of club; and
c) Hours of use per week.
It should be noted any group occupying a sports pavilion under a licence agreement,
except where the occupation is for short term relocation due to Council works, will be liable
for the utilities contribution applicable to the specific sports pavilion occupied regardless
of category under this policy.
Maintenance
Recreation Reserve
Ground inspections must be undertaken annually by Council’s Asset Infrastructure
Inspector.
Licensees and/or Lessees must ensure a ground inspection checklist is completed each
time prior to the grounds being used.
All defects must be reported to Council in a timely manner.
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Maintenance Requirements
Occupiers of Council land and/or buildings are required to maintain the subject facility in
accordance with the Maintenance Schedule attached to their agreement. The agreement
schedule will specify the responsibilities of Council and the occupant/s in regard to
maintenance of land and/or buildings. Council reserves the right to negotiate maintenance
responsibilities and costs.
The Occupants will be responsible for keeping the land and/or buildings clean, in good
condition and perform incidental maintenance not requiring a skilled tradesperson.
Maintenance Inspection
Council reserves the right to inspect all council assets each year or more frequently as
required.
Council will conduct inspections in accordance with the asset management maintenance
program specified by the Assets and Operations Directorate.
All occupants will be required to complete an annual building assessment/ condition report
of the premises on the relevant form provided by Council. Council will undertake Essential
Safety Measure (ESM) checks on all premises in accordance with the Building Regulations
2018.
Capital Works- Improvements, Alterations and/or Additions
Occupants must not undertake construction, alteration, addition, renovation,
refurbishment or demolition to any Council owned property without obtaining written
consent of Council. Any significant alterations or additions required shall be undertaken by
Council's contractors unless otherwise agreed between the parties in writing.
A Crown land occupant must not undertake construction, alteration, addition, renovation,
refurbishment or demolition without obtaining Council and the Minister's (DELWP) prior
written consent.
If agreed, any contractors engaged by an occupant must be accredited, qualified
tradespersons with appropriate insurances and copies of trade's qualifications and
insurances must be provided to Council for information.
All improvements unless agreed otherwise between the parties will revert to Council at the
end of the occupancy agreement.
Length of Tenure
The length of each lease or licence will be negotiated taking into account the particular
circumstances of the property and tenant. As a general rule the term offered will not
exceed five (5) years however, each case will be guided by principles, including but not
limited to:
a) Capital investment by tenant.
b) Long term planning.
c) Connection between the permitted use and Council Plan.
d) The extent to which the facility is used for multi-purpose activities.
Where Council grants a lease or licence, Council is likely to renew the agreement provided
the following criteria are met:
a) Council is satisfied at the expiry of the term that there remains a strong demand for
the continuation of the occupant’s services within the community and that the
services meet identified needs.
b) The facility is not required by Council for other purposes.
c) Council is satisfied that the renewal of the agreement will continue to maximise
benefits to the community and/or Council.
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Leases and Licences Policy
d) The occupant has not been consistently in breach of its obligations under the existing
agreement.
e) The grant of any proposed lease is subject to assessment against the Act.
f) The occupant is prepared to enter into a new lease or licence on the terms required
by Council.
Use of licence Rather than Lease
Council aims to maximise access to and use of community facilities.
Where Council wishes to make a facility available to multiple users, a licence will be the
preferred form of agreement as a lease is only used where exclusive occupation is being
granted.
Use of Facility and Occasional Hire from Tenants
Leases and licenses will only be available to tenants for approved purposes. Council leases
and licenses will include a statement recognising Council’s policy of maximising community
use and a commitment by the tenant to support shared and multiple use of the facility by
community-based organisations.
Certain facilities such as recreation reserves and pavilions should also be made available
by the tenant for casual hire by other parties where appropriate and where this does not
interfere with the primary purpose of the facility or adversely affect the amenity of nearby
neighbours.
Hiring guidelines will be set out in applicable leases; fees from casual hire are generally
payable to the tenant, not to Council.
Where a tenant makes an area of a Council facility available for casual hire, the fees will
be consistent with Council’s fees and charges set out in Council’s Annual Budget.
Hours of Use
The hours of use may be prescribed for all leased or licensed premises.
Sub-leasing or Licensing
Tenants may only sub-lease with Council permission to:
a) Approved organisations for approved purposes; and
b) Subject to approved terms and conditions.
Generally, Council will use the same criteria to assess the sub-lease as are applied to the
head lease. The subsidy level of the head tenant will be reviewed when a sub-lease is
developed and may be adjusted if the rent is more than cost-recovery.
Rates and Taxes
The tenant shall pay for rates (if charged), and any applicable taxes (including GST and
stamp duty), charges and outgoings that are levied on a premises.
Insurance
All occupants are required to hold current Public Liability Insurance to a value determined
by Council as detailed in their agreement. A copy of the Public Liability Insurance is to be
provided to Council on an annual basis as evidence of cover.
All occupants must hold current insurance for contents or equipment owned or controlled
by them at the Council property. Consideration will be given to specific circumstances and
historical arrangements on a case by case scenario. Where multiple users are in occupation
of a Council asset direct consultation with groups will be undertaken to determine the
appropriate mechanisms for contents insurance.
Building Insurance for all Council assets will be paid for by Council, this includes buildings
located on Crown land where Council is the appointed committee of management.
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Market Rental Value means the rental value of the Premises or Licensed Area as
determined by a valuer appointed by Council.
Seasonal Licence is an agreement where the owner grants the Licensee the non-
exclusive right to occupy a defined area as set out in the Seasonal Licence, which includes
the whole or part of a building and/or land, for either the summer season (October through
March) or winter season (April through August).
Tenant means the occupier of a facility under a Lease agreement.
6 Policies Superseded
Community Assets Policy 2000
Housing Policy 1998
7 References
• Occupational Health and Safety Policy and Guidelines
• Occupational Health and Safety Act (2004)
• Building Act 1993 (Vic)
• Competition and Consumer Act 2010
• Crown Land (reserves) Act 1978 (Vic)
• Equal Opportunity Act 2010
• Information Privacy Act 2000 (Vic)
• Local Government Act 1989 (Vic)
• Local Government Act 2020 (Vic)
• Planning and Environment Act 1987 (Vic)
• Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014 (Vic)
• Privacy Act 19888
• Retail Leases Act 2003 (Vic)
• Building Regulations 2018
• DELWP Crown Land Leasing Guidelines 2012
• Leasing Policy for Victoria Crown Land May 2018
• Local Government (Genera) Regulations 2015
• Retail Leases Regulations 2013
Council Approved Policy
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Schedule 3 – Forms
Casual Hire Agreement
Hire Agreement Terms
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Agenda
SUMMARY
Council has been informed of a Community Sports Infrastructure Stimulus Program
released recently and closing on19 June. Council will seek to bundle 3 projects into 1
application totalling $2.2 million dollars.
RECOMMENDATION:
That Council supports the application and commits to fund up to $150,000 from the
Federal Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program
ATTACHMENTS
Nil
DISCUSSION
Council was informed that on 1 June 2020 that the new Community Sports Infrastructure
Stimulus Program would be released and applications closed on 19 June.
After a meeting to look at our priority project list held with the CEO, Director Community
Development and Wellbeing and Manager Community Development, Sport and Recreation
and Project officers. It was decided to approach the three communities of Brim, Beulah
and Rupanyup to bundle a netball development funding application from the 3 towns into
our proposal. The Sport and Recreation Officer has gained approval from Sport and
Recreation Victoria to make the application.
Costings are at 15 June $2.2 million dollars for the 3 projects. Council has gained support
from Brim and Beulah for a contribution of around $140,000, Rupanyup is Council owned
and a contribution of $150,00 from Council would be required if the application is
successful.
RELEVANT LAW
Section 57 of the new act sets out Public Transparency
Part 3 on Council Decision making and Part 4 Planning and Financial Management cover
this area.
COUNCIL PLANS AND POLICIES
Councils strategic plan 2017-21 goals 1of Good Governance, 2 a Place to Live and Grow,
3 a Safe and Active Community and Sustainable environment. Support applications like
this to improve our community infrastructure, council and public managed.
RELATED COUNCIL DECISIONS
Not Applicable
OPTIONS
Council not contribute funding to the application and the community would be ineligible as
a result of not having the required 10% matching funding contribution.
SUSTAINABILITY IMPLICATIONS
AGENDA Ordinary Meeting of Council
Issue Date: 24 June 2020 Page 208/ 329
Agenda
Discuss whether the subject matter of the report raises any sustainability implications.
• Economic
Development at the 3 sites enables each community to continue to offer sport
programs that attract external communities into their town and support local
economies.
• Social
Keeping facilities up to date and bringing communities together staying healthy has
long term implications for the wellbeing of all Yarriambiack Shire Council residents.
• Environmental
All projects are planned to have minimal impact on the land they are developed on.
• Climate change
N/A
• Financial
The costs to Council of possibly up to $150,000 to complete a 2.2 million project
from one off funding is a minimal investment in the long term.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Community Engagement in section 55 of the new act outlines the importance of council
working with the community on projects like this. The Sport and Recreation officer has
worked with the 3 communities since we were given the guidelines by Sport and Recreation
Victoria.
RISK
Assess the risk for the decision.
Utilising the Risk Management Framework 2019, the following assessment has been made:
SUMMARY
The Council Plan is the primary document that sets the strategic direction of a Councillor
term and sets out the Strategic Resource Plan for which the strategic objectives will be
implemented and it is required to be reviewed on an annual basis.
RECOMMENDATION:
That Council adopt the reviewed Council Plan including Strategic Resource Plan.
ATTACHMENTS
Revised Council Plan and Strategic Resource Plan.
DISCUSSION
Significant changes to the Council Plan require that the Plan be advertised to the public
and submissions invited. As per the 2019 update, no major changes to the Council Plan
are suggested for its final year of implementation, however the format for indicators of
success measures and reporting against those indicators will continue to be carried out six
monthly against a new column against each objective.
In addition, the Strategic Resource Plan now extends out for the forward four years and
shows an improved financial position in the outward years.
The need to have a set of clear objectives that can be measured against ensures that
Council will meet the obligations required under their Council Plan strategic direction
RELEVANT LAW
The annual review of the Council Plan is required under the Local Government (Planning
and Reporting) Regulations 2014. The Local Government Act 2020 does not specifically
set out the requirement to review the Council Plan on an annual basis, but it is expected
once the updated regulations are released there will be more prescription around review
of major strategic documents.
COUNCIL PLANS AND POLICIES
The Council Plan is the overarching strategic direction document for Council and informs
all other Plans and Policies.
RELATED COUNCIL DECISIONS
The Council Plan is reviewed annually with the last review taking place at the 2019 June
Ordinary Meeting and an update on progress against the Council Plan is made each six
month period with the last progress report made at the 2020 February Ordinary Council
Meeting.
SUSTAINABILITY IMPLICATIONS
The Council Plan and Strategic Resource Plan is a statutory document required to ensure
appropriate planning and corporate direction around resources is set out and assessed by
Council.
This includes risk management, financial and resource management and clear measurable
objectives to guide Council direction.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
The original 2017-2021 Council Plan required extensive community consultation as per the
requirements set out in the previous Local Government Act 1989. Additional community
consultation through forums, drop in sessions and other strategy development has helped
to ensure the Council Plan objectives remain relevant.
Commencement on the development of the new Council Plan 2021-2025 will commence
within six months of the Council election in October.
RISK
Utilising the Risk Management Framework 2019, the following assessment has been made:
Council Plan
2017 - 2021
Revised 2020
Website: www.yarriambiack.vic.gov.au
Email: [email protected]
The Council Plan has been developed through a collaborative process between elected
Councillors, the organisation and the Yarriambiack community. Also taken into consideration
were the results from recent surveys, focus groups and Community Consultations. The Council
Plan is our commitment to continue our pursuit of excellence, innovation, good governance
and responsible management of our community resources and assets.
This Council Plan also integrates the Public Health & Wellbeing Plan in an attempt to raise the
profile of health and wellbeing matters in our community. The integration will also significantly
strengthen monitoring, reporting and accountability.
As part of this process, Council has also adopted Recommendation 94 of the Royal Commission
into Family Violence that was undertaken in 2016. This recommendation provides Council Mayor Graeme Massey
with the opportunity to develop strategies that are focused on reducing family violence and
supporting the needs of victims.
We have set this Council Plan around five (5) Strategic Objectives, which are:
• Good Governance
• A place to Live and Grow
• A safe & active Community and Sustainable Environment
• A planned Future
• Health and Wellbeing
Details of key objectives and actions that we will undertake for each Community Outcome over the next four years are included
in this Plan, as well as the indicators and targets that will be used to monitor our progress. Supporting this document is the
Strategic Resource Plan which outlines the internal resources that will be needed to achieve these objectives.
Council is keen to continue working with partners, industry leaders and our community at a local, state and federal level to
ensure that Yarriambiack Shire will continue to prosper. Our Council Plan recognises that we cannot achieve outcomes alone,
there are different ways that Council may respond to each objective, to partner, advocate, deliver services, build or regulate
things. We will choose the approach that best suits the task at hand.
We are committed to building on our strengths to ensure that Yarriambiack Shire Council is the place where people want to
work, live, play and invest. We are positive that this Council Plan will help us achieve these goals.
Cr Graeme Massey
Yarriambiack
Long Term Community
Council Plan
Strategic Objectives,
Strategies
Legislation
Municipal Public
Health and Wellbeing
The Municipality is divided into three wards, represented by two Councillors in the Hopetoun and Dunmunkle wards and three
Councillors in the Warracknabeal ward.
The Mayor is elected for a one year period each November/December, voted in by the Councillors.
The seven Councillors are the elected representatives of all residents and ratepayers across the Shire.
Left: Tom Hamilton, Kylie Zanker, Corinne Heintze, Graeme Massey, Shane Roberts, Jean Wise & Helen Ballentine
TURRIFF
TURRIFF
TURRIFF
TURRIFF
LASCELLES
LASCELLES
LASCELLES
Cr Shane Roberts
YAAPEET
WARRACKNABEAL WARD
Cr Kylie Zanker
BEULAH
Cr Graeme Massey
Cr Jean Wise BRIM
LAH
LAH
Cr Tom Hamilton
SHEEP
SHEEPHILLS
HILLS
MINYIP
DUNMUNKLE
MURTOA
RUPANYUP
LUBECK
Our VISION
In consultation with our community, Yarriambiack Shire Council
aims to provide a viable, sustainable and vibrant future.
Our mission
Through strong leadership, transparency and strategic Municipal Strategic Statement
planning, Councillors and Staff in partnership with our
community will achieve our vision. Consideration
Our values The Municipal Strategic Statement (MSS) has been a guiding
document in the development of our future goals as part of
Customer Service the Council Plan 2017-2021. Alignment with the MSS ensures
• treat our customers with courtesy and respect; a consistent approach to all future projects, initiatives and
• lead and develop leadership within our community; strategies where there are land use planning considerations.
• constantly strive to improve our services;
• forge closer relationships with customers;
• investigate matters thoroughly and objectively, and
• keep our customers informed, in plain language, about the
process and outcome;
Silo artwork in progress October 2016 - Patchewollock
• treat people fairly, with respect and have proper regard for
their rights;
• make decisions lawfully, fairly, impartially, and in the public
interest;
• we are honest, trustworthy, reliable, transparent and
accountable in our dealings;
• we are careful, conscientious and diligent;
• use public resources economically and efficiently; and
• actively pursue positive outcomes for the community.
Continuous Improvement
We drive continuous and sustainable improvement in service
provision, operational efficiency and stakeholder relations to
create a leading organisation.
PRINCIPLES
Social Justice:
We strive to make sure that every part of our core business is
accessible by and inclusive of all community members.
Best Value:
We provide services that are responsive to community
needs, meet set performance standards, provide value for
money, balance affordability and accessibility, and support
opportunities for local employment growth or retention.
Sustainability:
We manage public assets and resources in a way that supports
and balances sustainable economic, social and environmental
objectives and adheres to the principles of intergenerational
equity.
The Shire is situated between the The Shire is well situated to serve
Grampians and Murray Tourist Regions the needs of local economies and
and provides a link between Horsham communities and promote and facilitate
in the south and Mildura in the increased public and private investment
northern end of that region. It is located in developing its grain and related
immediately to the east of some of industries.
Victoria’s main eco-tourist attractions, Warracknabeal is the sub-regional
including the Big Desert, Wyperfeld centre for the northern Wimmera
National Park, Lake Hindmarsh, Lake and southern Mallee, with excellent
Albacutya and the Little Desert. facilities for shopping, aged care, health,
recreation and other commercial
Of the population, almost half the activities. The saleyards are an important
workforce is employed in agriculture. selling feature.
7 Were born overseas there would be: 8 Eating enough vegetables to benefit
their health
56 Households with access to the 27 Who smoke
internet
65 Family households 63 Who are overweight / obese
33 Living by themselves 46 Doing enough physical activity to
51 Men benefit their health
2 Share households 49 Women 09 Reporting they have high
depression or anxiety
At a Glance:
• Yarriambiack Shire Council covers an area of 7,158sq km.
• Has an estimated residential population of 6,759 people.
• 104 staff are employed with Yarriambiack Shire Council.
• 4,892 kilometres in Road Length.
• 7 Councillors.
• Agriculture, Retail and Health Care are the major
employment sectors in the Municipality.
• There are 7,712 rateable properties in Yarriambiack Shire
Council with a total value (CIV) $1,876,652,500
The Council Plan provides direction to management and includes the indicators that Council will use to deliver
key outcomes.
It sets out our plan to meet the present and future needs of our community by identifying a clear vision for
the future, our mission (the business we are in), and the values and principles that are fundamental to how we
formulate decisions.
More than ever before, the way the Yarriambiack Shire Council responds to local issues is influenced by regional,
state and federal initiatives and strategies. This continues the evolution of local government from a basic
provider of services such as roads, rates and rubbish to a more comprehensive role in building the capacity of
our community to achieve a sustainable future. The Yarriambiack Shire Council provides in excess of 80 services
to residents and visitors to the Municipality. The Council Plan reflects this broader and more comprehensive role.
The Council Plan is therefore our most important and crucial plan, from which all other plans, strategies, policies
and processes take their lead. It drives the attached four years Strategic Resource Plan and the development of
the Annual Budget.
A key component of the Council Plan is how this relates to Council’s yearly budget process. As part of that budget
process a Strategic Resource Plan has been developed, which translates the requirements of the Council Plan in
to a four year forward projection of Council’s financial position and results. The Strategic Resource Plan is included
as part of this Council Plan.
Health and Wellbeing is another important component that helps guide Council’s decision making processes. It is
a requirement under the Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008 and outlines goals and actions that guide Council
in creating a local community in which people can achieve maximum health and wellbeing.
The Yarriambiack Shire Council Plan contains the following five goals:
1.
GOOD GOVERNANCE
4. A PLANNED FUTURE
Role of a Council
(LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1989 SECTION 3D)
1. A Council is elected to provide leadership for the good governance of the municipal district and the local
community.
2. The role of a Council includes -
a) acting as a representative government by taking into account the diverse needs of the local community
in decision making;
b) providing leadership by establishing strategic objectives and monitoring their achievement;
c) maintaining the viability of the Council by ensuring that resources are managed in a responsible and
accountable manner;
d) advocating the interests of the local community to other communities and governments;
e) acting as a responsible partner in government by taking into account the needs of other communities;
f) fostering community cohesion and encouraging active participation in civic life.
To attract and retain people in our municipality, quality services and cultural activities are needed including:
• Opportunities for sport, recreation and physical activity.
• Facilitate the attraction of major events.
• Growth and quality of preschool, primary and secondary educational services.
• Provide support to existing businesses to grow and develop.
• Promote ‘Buy Local’ Campaign.
• Support and assist communities in the development and promotion of special events, expo’s and festivals.
For the Municipality to be a good place to live and preserve our natural environment we need to:
• Make greater use of assets such as Yarriambiack Creek, Lakes and Weir pools.
• Maintain assets that meet the community’s needs.
• Ensure that appropriate and accessible public transport services are provided across the Shire.
• Better manage our waste management to educate the community on recycling and energy efficiency.
1. A well-managed
2.
1. and service-focused A PLACE TO
organisation.
GOOD LIVE AND
GOVERNANCE GROW
STRATEGIC
5. Through effective planning and for community wellbeing and
consultation, create environments economic development priorities and
for our communities that will enable projects as well as capitalising on
existing and emerging opportunities in
OBJECTIVES
residents to prosper and enjoy
improved health and wellbeing. tourism and visitation.
Services/Activities:
• Continue to actively pursue the recovery of unpaid debts. 70% Council Data
• Complete Internal Audit as per Audit schedule. 100% Council Data
• Utilise Social Media to improve community engagement. 500 Facebook likes
• Respond to all Internal Audit recommendations. 100% Council Data
• Adoption of the Long Term Financial Plan. 2017/18 Council Data
Services/Activities:
• Information signage located at our Art Silos. June 2019 Council Data
• Combine with the local Committee of Management and State
Government to provide an upgrade to the Warracknabeal June 2020 Council Data
Town Hall with the Council committed to contribute $70,000
to the project.
• Upgrade Caravan Parks with better facilities. June 2019 Council Data
• Increased visitor numbers to the local Caravan Parks. Number of Visitors Council Data
• Engage with community and organisations to promote Reprint of Council Data
tourism. Township Brochures
3.1 Assist
• Environmental Sustainability
- Waste Management & Environment
- Water use
- Power consumption
- Climate change
- Street lighting
- Beautification
• Active Recreation
• Law, Order & Public Safety
• Swimming areas
• Emergency Management
Services/Activities:
• Completion of 90% of the road projects listed in the annual 90% Council Data
adopted Council Budget.
• Increase in the number of trees planted across the Shire. Number of Council Data
trees planted
• Continue to provide funding to three SES units within the Annual Budget Council Data
Municipality.
• In partnership with Murtoa Pool Committee and the State 2019 Council Data
Government; review and upgrade the change rooms, kiosk
and first aid room at the Murtoa Swimming Pool.
• Examine the possibility of a mobile transfer station for use at Recommendation Council Data
some of the smaller transfer station sites. to Council
Strategic Objective
4.1 Economic
growth within the
federal funding to maintain and upgrade roads, Council and community infrastructure.
Services/Activities:
• Infrastructure
- Roads
- Footpaths
- Bridges
- Buildings
• Aerodromes
• Other Heritage & Culture
• Transport services
• Public Halls
• Community & Economic Development
• Saleyards
Current Strategies
Promote Yarriambiack
Shire Council as a regional
Commitments, Documents or Projects To be delivered in 19/20
• Support and assist communities in the
development and promotion of special
• Development and adoption
of an Economic Development
municipality living destination. events, expo’s and festivals. Strategy.
• Seek funding support for lake and weir • Great Outdoors funding to be
Support and encourage pool infrastructure to enhance tourism and actively sought for improving
infrastructure, land use economic opportunities. tourism park areas.
planning, events and • Provide support to existing businesses to
services that support grow and develop. • Provision of support by Council
economic development • Foster the establishment and growth of to Yarrilinks including office
and lifestyle opportunities. business and industry groups. space, funding for trees and
• Support the provision of recreational water secretarial support.
for water bodies within the Yarriambiack • Continued financial support for
Shire Council. the Socio economic study in to
• Support improvement to the NBN and the value of recreational water.
mobile phone coverage across the region. • Support fixed wireless to small
• Explore and implement options for public townships and rural areas to
Wi-Fi access. increase competition.
4.2 A strong and Work in partnership • Promote ‘Buy Local’ Campaign. • Building Better Regions –
diverse local economy with businesses and • Support investigation of localised Trading off the Tourism Trail
organisations to develop renewable energy generation facilities. workshops and business
and promote business • Foster linkages with local business and development to be delivered.
activity. tourism associations to assist growth and
prosperity of the retail, commercial and • Participate in the Better
tourism sectors. Approvals Small Business Project
• Foster the growth opportunities for specific to facilitate council statutory
sectors including manufacturing, mineral support for new and expanding
sands, retail, agriculture and grains research. businesses.
• Actively participate in the Wimmera Mallee
Sustainability Alliance.
Strategic Objective
5.1 Physical Activity
Current Strategies
Strengthen support for
organisations or initiatives
that aim to increase levels
of physical activity.
• Increase active living. Increase by 10% the proportion Victorian Population Health
of adults, adolescents & children Survey Data/ World Health
whom are sufficiently active by Organisation Target/ Wimmera
2021. PCP Data/ Victorian Public
Health & Wellbeing Outcomes
Framework
• Increase healthy eating. Increase by 16% the proportion
of adults, adolescents & children
that consume sufficient fruit and Victorian Population Health
vegetables by 2021 to align with Survey/ Wimmera PCP Data/
State average. Victorian Public Health
& Wellbeing Outcomes
Decrease by 5% the proportion Framework
of adults, adolescents & children
who consume sugar-sweetened
beverages daily.
• Participation in organised sport. Increase by 5% the proportion Victorian Population Health
of adults, adolescents & children Survey/ Wimmera PCP Data/
participating in organised sport. Victorian Public Health
& Wellbeing Outcomes
Framework
• Reduce prevalence and impact of family violence. A decrease in family violence Women’s Health Grampians/
notifications within the Shire. Victoria Police
• Increase gender equality . 70% of internal policies to have
been reviewed and amended Council Data
where relevant to increase focus on
gender equality.
The following diagram shows the relationship between the key statutory planning and reporting documents
that make up the planning and accountability framework.¹
Time horizon Planning Reporting Timing
Medium
Term
Stakeholder
& Community Jan-Jun
Council Plan Engagement
> Strategic Objectives
> Strategies
> Strategic Indicators
Feb-Jun
Strategic Resource Plan
> Financial Statements
> Non-Financial Resources
Mar-Jun
Annual Budget
> Financial Statements
> Services and Initiatives
> Service Outcome Indicators
> Major Initiatives
Jul-Sep
Annual Report
Report of Operations
Short Financial Statements
Term Performance Statement
1. Adopted from the Local Government Planning and Reporting: Better Practice Guide Local Government Victoria
The Victorian Government has been working with Councils to develop and continually review the Local Government Performance
Reporting Framework (LGPRF) which ensures that all Councils are measuring and reporting on their performance in a consistent
way.
The Local Government Amendment (Performance Reporting and Accountability) Act 2013, came into operation on 18 April
2014, and amended the Local Government Act 1989 in preparation for Victoria’s new performance reporting framework.
The new legislation and framework improves public accountability, strategic and financial planning, and reporting requirements
across local government.
From July 2014, the LGPRF became mandatory for implementation by Councils as part of the planning and reporting cycle for
the 2014-2015 financial year.
Councils report against a standard set of indicators that allow benchmarking of results. This gives the community better access
to information about how their Councils are performing across a range of areas. Results are published each year via www.
knowyourcouncil.vic.gov.au.
A comprehensive range of service areas were initially considered with the list currently refined to nine (9) common local
government services plus four (4 )optional service areas.
A Governance and Management checklist also forms part of the framework to ensure Yarriambiack Shire Council have
appropriate Policies, Plans and Frameworks in place surrounding areas such as Risk, Emergencies, Assets, Fraud, Community
Engagement and Financial Management.
THE
COMMUNITY
MAYOR &
COUNCILLORS
CHIEF EXECUTIVE
OFFICER
The Strategic Resource Plan is revised annually as part of the annual review of the Council Plan and is also informed through
the annual budget process. Projections are based on Council’s four year priorities and ongoing service delivery levels.
RESOURCES EXPENDITURE
The Strategic Resource Plan is revised annually as part of the annual review of the Council Plan and is also informed through
the Annual Budget process. Projections are based on Council’s four year priorities and ongoing service delivery levels.
economic environment and key financial assumptions
The Strategic Resource Plan is prepared and revised annually based on the latest economic and financial information
available at the time of its preparation. As economic and financial variables change over time, the plan is adjusted
accordingly to take account of these movements. The key financial assumptions underpinning the Strategic Resource Plan
are detailed in Table 1.
The Strategic Resource Plan was developed through a rigorous process, and is based on the following key information:
• Audited financial statements as at 30 June 2016.
• 2016-17 Council Budget.
• A range of assumptions about changes in future income and expenditure associated with meeting current levels of
services
• Economic environment - financial indicators based on external sources.
• The need to comply with the principles of sound financial management as contained in the Act:
• Prudently manage financial risks relating to debt, assets and liabilities.
• Provide reasonable stability in the level of rate burden.
• Consider the financial effects of Council decisions on future generations.
• Provide full, accurate and timely disclosure of financial information.
Yarriambiack Shire Council recognises the need for long-term financial planning and will embark on the development of a
10-year financial plan in future updates.
Expenses
Employee costs 10,776 10,425 10,660 10,902
Materials and services 6,138 4,857 5,017 5,187
Depreciation 5,193 5,349 5,510 5,675
Bad and doubtful debts 1 1 1 1
Contributions and donations 674 669 682 695
Finance costs - leases - - - -
Borrowing costs 60 62 64 66
Other expenses 1,718 1,748 1,815 1,884
Total expenses 24,560 23,111 23,815 24,410
The above comprehensive income statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying other information.
Non-current assets
Other financial assets 258 263 268 274
Investments in associates and joint ventures 133 135 138 141
Property, infrastructure, plant & equipment 148,797 150,479 152,006 153,540
Total non-current assets 149,187 150,877 152,412 153,954
Total assets 155,760 156,739 157,596 158,260
Liabilities
Trade and other payables 1,133 1,167 1,471 1,780
Trust funds and deposits 31 32 33 34
Provisions 2,478 2,716 2,967 3,239
Interest-bearing liabilities 21 21 16 -
Total current liabilities 3,662 3,936 4,487 5,053
Non-current liabilities
Provisions 561 572 584 595
Interest-bearing liabilities 37 16 - -
Total non-current liabilities 598 588 584 595
Total liabilities 4,260 4,524 5,071 5,648
Equity
Accumulated surplus 74,226 74,441 74,251 73,838
Reserves 77,274 77,774 78,274 78,774
Total equity 151,500 152,215 152,525 152,612
The above balance sheet should be read in conjunction with the accompanying other information.
2020/2021 Budget
Balance at beginning of the financial year 150,038 73,264 76,759 15
Surplus/(deficit) for the year 962 962 - -
Net asset revaluation increment/(decrement) 500 - 500 -
Balance at end of the financial year 151,500 74,226 77,259 15
The above statement of changes in equity should be read in conjunction with the accompanying other information.
The above statement of cash flows should be read in conjunction with the accompanying other information.
Infrastructure
Roads 6,187 4,925 5,063 5,226
Bridges 50 51 53 55
Footpaths 100 103 106 109
Kerb and channel 200 79 81 84
Drainage 27 29 29 30
Recreational, leisure and community facilities 135 10 10 10
Waste management - - - -
Parks, open space and streetscapes 10 10 10 10
Total infrastructure 6,709 5,207 5,352 5,524
Total capital works expenditure 8,733 6,531 6,537 6,709
Represented by:
New asset expenditure 1,072 531 417 467
Asset renewal expenditure 4,511 4,000 4,080 4,162
Asset upgrade expenditure 3,150 2,000 2,040 2,081
Total capital works expenditure 8,733 6,531 6,537 6,709
The above statement of capital works should be read in conjunction with the accompanying other information.
Staff numbers
Employees 120 117 117 117
Total staff numbers 120 117 117 117
The above statement of human resources should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
Historically, silos are a place for the farming communities to come together during harvest, exchange news and stories and re-
connect with old friends while the grain is unloaded. Of late, changes in the agricultural industry have led to many communities
losing active silo sites. The Silo Art Trail has provided an opportunity to reinvigorate decommissioned sites and celebrate local
communities and farming history.
BRIM PATCHEWOLLOCK
Guido Van Helten captured the imagination of Australia Fintan Magee is a Brisbane based street artist who
in December 2015 when he undertook a gigantic painted the Patchewollock Silos in October 2016. Local
painting on the Brim Silos. The Brim Silo Art generated farmer ‘Noodle Hulland’ was chosen for the inspiration
inspiration for the Silo Art Trail and Guido’s mural will of the artwork because he was slim enough to fit the
remain an iconic tribute to the farming communities two narrow silos and had “that classic farmer look”,
of the Wimmera and Mallee region. embodying the locals’ spirit.
The Silo Art Trail will continue in 2017 with murals created in Lascelles and Rosebery.
Hopetoun Office:
Gateway BEET
75 Lascelles Street Hopetoun 3396
P: 5083 3001 Check out Yarriambiack Tourism Association & Wimmera Mallee Tourism at
www.yarriambiack.vic.gov.au and www.wimmeramalleetourism.com.au
W: www.yarriambiack.vic.gov.au
The photos within this publication have been taken from various locations across the Municipality.
E: [email protected]
SUMMARY
This report sets out the June quarterly update against the adopted Yarriambiack Local
Government Inspectorate Report Action Plan. The focus over the last three months has
centred around debt collection and management.
RECOMMENDATION:
That Council:
1. Note the June quarterly update on the adopted Local Government Inspectorate
Action Plan and make them available to the public
2. That Council provide a copy to the Local Government Inspectorate Office,
external and internal auditors
ATTACHMENTS
Yarriambiack Local Government Inspectorate Action Plan – June quarterly Update.
DISCUSSION
The Local Government Inspectorate Report, “Protecting integrity Yarriambiack Shire
Council Investigation” was released in November 2019.
The Local Government Inspectorate findings highlighted a number of deficiencies in
governance practices across the Shire. As noted in the inspectorate report, many of the
issues raised have since been addressed or are in the process of rectification.
Attached is the Local Government Inspectorate Action Plan which highlights the summary
findings and the progress Council has made in addressing the outcomes noted in the
report.
The next quarter will see a number of asset management based actions realized, including
the Asset Lifecycle Policy, External Works Policy and improved management and control
of Plant within the asset management system.
RELEVANT LAW
The Inspectorate report was instigated under the previous Local Government Act 1989.
COUNCIL PLANS AND POLICIES
The Yarriambiack Local Government Inspectorate Action Plan was adopted at the 2019
November Ordinary Council Meeting, with a requirement for quarterly public reporting to
Council against the actions.
RELATED COUNCIL DECISIONS
The Yarriambiack Local Government Inspectorate Action Plan was adopted at the 2019
November Ordinary Meeting and the first quarterly report at the 2019 March Ordinary
Meeting.
OPTIONS
Not applicable
SUSTAINABILITY IMPLICATIONS
The financial sustainability of Council relies heavily on strong asset and financial
management both of which were highlighted in the LGI report for a lack of robustness
around process and policy.
The Action Plan adopted by Yarriambiack Council in response to the report and the
quarterly reporting on those actions is an important part of Council providing the public
with a level of assurance that the risk is being taken seriously and actioned.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
As part of the Yarriambiack Local Government Inspectorate Action Plan, it was a
requirement that throughout the two years’ implementation period that quarterly reports
be made to Council and be made publically available to ensure transparent accountability.
RISK
Utilising the Risk Management Framework 2019, the following assessment has been made:
Recommendations Council Actions Timeframe and Responsible March 2020 Update on status
Officers
ASSET MANAGMENT
4.1 Private works As per the report, Staff have been advised Completed. New Manager Assets
that private works are to cease and no commencing March 2020,
a) Private works must cease. longer be provided. This has been further External Works Policy is a
reiterated in All Staff memos in August, Performance Objective.
b) Draft and implement a policy in September and October, 2019.
relation to work carried out Draft Operations Manual has
outside of normal operational A clear policy will be developed in relation Infrastructure department in been created and is with the
scope. to scope of works that occur outside of consultation with finance. Dec, Manager Operations for final
normal operations. 2020. External Works Policy. review.
c) Guidance to staff about why
such works are inappropriate. An updated Gifts, Benefits and Hospitality Completed. Staff Code of Conduct adopted
Policy was adopted at Councils September 02/10/2019 and circulated via
2019 Ordinary Council meeting and has a email and hard copy to all staff.
declare all basis which staff have been During recruitment process
consulted on. new staff receive a copy of the
Code of Conduct via email.
A new Staff Code of Conduct has been Completed.
developed and was distributed at the Council has purchased an
November All Staff meeting which further online learning management
details staff responsibilities about carrying system. The following modules
out works, conflict of interest and are included:
misconduct. Occupational Health
and Safety
Staff training will continue to be provided Ongoing – with Governance and Information Privacy
on adopted and newly created policies, Probity training in August 2019. Equal Employment
procedures and general governance as per Opportunity
the consultation mechanisms in the Workplace Bullying and
Enterprise Agreement. Harassment
Recommendations Council Actions Timeframe and Responsible March 2020 Update on status
Officers
Fraud and Corruption
Awareness
Charter of Human
Rights and
Responsibilities
YSC Induction / Code of
Conduct
Child Safe Standards
and Reportable
Conduct Scheme
Manual Handling.
Training is to be conducted
every two years and new staff
are to undertake training as
part of their on boarding
process. This is anticipated to
be rolled out by 30 April 2020.
4.2 Sale of consumables or resources Council has core business functions and Infrastructure department in New Manager Assets
from Council Depot any functions outside of that core business consultation with finance. commencing March 2020,
will need to be provided in line with a clear December 2020 external Works External Works Policy is a
Policy to be finalised. Performance Objective.
Recommendations Council Actions Timeframe and Responsible March 2020 Update on status
Officers
a) Council to create and enforce justification of purpose and guidelines as
guidelines on the sale of per an External Works Policy.
consumables.
4.3 Staff usage of Council equipment All Council staff have been advised via Completed. As part of the Annual Review
meetings and memo that plant and process staff are required to
a) The practice of allowing depot equipment can not be used for personal or sign off that they have
employees to utilise plant and private use. acknowledged and read the
equipment for personal use or Employee Code of Conduct.
private works should cease This has been reiterated in All Staff memos Completed.
immediately. distributed in August, September and The new HR system has the
October 2019. capability to send out specific
b) Make it mandatory for all depot policies to staff to have them
staff to be familiar with the A new Staff Code of Conduct has been Completed. sign off on annually. Policies
policies and have each depot developed and includes staff usage of specific to the use of Council
staff member sign off to confirm Council equipment. equipment and Council
reading and understanding on a resources will be set up in the
regular basis. Good Governance training was undertaken Ongoing – with additional HR system to be reviewed
by All Staff in June 2019 and will be Governance and Probity training annually.
c) Council should provide training followed up with a refresher in August in Aug 2020.
and guidance on why such use of 2020 which also will include Probity related The learning management
public resources after hours is training. system will also address the use
not appropriate. of Council resources and
Private Works in the Induction /
Code of Conduct training to be
undertaken every two years.
Recommendations Council Actions Timeframe and Responsible March 2020 Update on status
Officers
4.4 Council leasing private assets The updated Procurement Policy was The Procurement Policy will be
from staff. adopted by Council at the May 2019 Completed. revised in April 2020 as part of
Ordinary meeting. the annual review process to
a) Review and update procurement include the leasing of Private
policy as appropriate. Any consideration of leasing private assets Assets from staff.
from staff would be subject to a rigorous
b) Ensure all risk mitigation is in procurement process. The Procurement Management
place prior to hiring assets from Manual is in draft and is the
staff. The updated policy provides provision for supporting document which
aggregate spend over a two year period to outlines the procedures to
be monitored. follow to implement the
Procurement Policy. This will
be presented alongside the
Procurement Policy to Council
in April 2020.
4.5 Unauthorised sale of plant and Council accepts that record keeping and Infrastructure department in Policy will be developed
equipment management of assets has been poor. consultation with finance. internally by August 2020 as
August 2020. Asset acquisition, the FAST grant was
a) Develop and implement a policy Investment in resources to provide utilisation and disposal Policy. unsuccessful.
for recording of assets, their improved asset management will be made
purchase, locations, status and and a policy will be developed to reflect Utilise a staff member for the The policies are to be
disposal and provide this policy improved practices developed including specific roll out of Assetfinda developed in consultation with
to the Inspectorate. the disposal of plant, equipment, land and register update and finance as the Sale / Disposal of
any other assets. maintenance. Plant, Equipment and Land
must meet the requirements of
Recommendations Council Actions Timeframe and Responsible March 2020 Update on status
Officers
b) Undertake a thorough Current asset management systems the Accounting Standards.
reconciliation of all council including plant assist and Assetfinda will be (Specifically AASB 116 PP&E).
equipment and other assets and better utilised and other council methods
record in a register that is such as the use of QR codes/barcodes on Student Design Engineer
updated each time plant and all plant will be investigated. These commenced and currently
equipment is purchased or sold. systems will also allow restricted asset and working on three-month
provide an audit trail when changes are project for verifying Plant in to
c) The asset register must be made. register.
updated regularly and access to
the register restricted to Buildings and Land audit and
appropriate staff. condition reports undertaken
and lodged with Assetfinda
system in May 2020.
4.6 Sale of land Whilst Council has a relatively low number Infrastructure department in Policy will be developed
of land sale transactions, the need for a consultation with finance. Aug, internally by August 2020.
a) Develop a sale of land policy and policy and procedure to reflect the sale of 2020. Asset acquisition,
formally document the sale of land is crucial to ensure the requirements utilisation and disposal Policy to
land process to assist with of the Act are met. be developed by August 2020.
adherence to the Act, promote
uniformity across the A number of other local Councils have
organisation, and mitigate key policies in place already and these will be
person risk. utilised by Yarriambiack Shire and
incorporate it in to the sale and disposal of
b) Maintain all relevant sale of land asset policy.
correspondence and
documentation on file.
FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
5.1 Procurement Council adopted an update Procurement Completed. Policy to be reviewed annually
Policy at the May 2019 Ordinary Council and presented to Council for
a) Council update its procurement meeting and has employed a full time adoption. A Procurement
policy in accordance with Procurement Officer as at September Management Manual has been
legislation and adhere to it. 2019. The updated policy is in accordance developed to support the
with best practice. Completed. implementation of the
b) Procurement staff should use the Procurement Policy. (To be
Local Government Victoria best Council has purchased and rolled out four presented at the April Council
practice procurement guidelines modules of online Procurement Training to meeting).
to assist in developing their the seven Councillors and key staff. Completed.
processes. Key staff have undertaken the
A contract manual has been developed MAV Procurement training. (30
c) Delivery of training and and templates are being created to ensure staff members).
education to all procurement compliance with the Policy.
staff and evaluation panel Procurement and Contracts
members. Officer appointed to provide
better oversight and
management of the
procurement process,
especially in relation to RFQ,
EOI and RFT.
Recommendations Council Actions Timeframe and Responsible March 2020 Update on status
Officers
Additional training to be rolled
out in 2020. Maddocks In Situ
program has been procured
and discussions are being held
to roll out a procurement
training to key personnel.
5.2 Recovery of outstanding rates Council is committed to recovering Completed. Rates Policy and associated
outstanding debts and a policy will be documents for debt
a) Council should develop a policy developed alongside a clear plan for management adopted at May
to govern the management and recovery. Ordinary Council Meeting.
recovery of outstanding rates.
Monthly reporting to Council as currently A new agreement with KPIs has
b) Take immediate action to occurs will also include key indicators of been entered in to for
recover outstanding rates or performance and collection success. proactive recovery of debts.
where appropriate, write off any
unrecoverable debts.
5.3 Corporate credit cards As per a number of internal audit Completed. A Credit / Debit Card Request
recommendations, a finance procedure form has been developed to
a) Council must adhere to its own manual is being developed and this will roll out across the organisation.
policy on credit card use. incorporate the procedure that Transactions cannot occur
accompanies the credit card policy will be unless approved prior to
developed. purchase.
GENERAL GOVERNANCE
7.1 Governance schedule Council purchased RelianSys in June 2019 Corporate Department. Partially RelianSys set up and all Council
and is currently rolling out the six modules Completed – fully completed by Policies included in the system.
a) Develop a whole of organisation including Compliance provides detailed June 30, 2020.
governance schedule that obligations contained in relevant Acts and Will roll out for Staff
captures each of the council’s assigns responsibilities for each of the (Administrative Policies within
statutory obligations and that statutory obligations which are escalated next 6 months).
clearly details the responsible should they not be undertaken.
staff member and function to be Dashboards allow for accountability.
carried out.
A governance schedule can then be
b) Information on progress against produced and provided to Council to
governance schedule milestone demonstrate progress and compliance,
provided to management and which will occur six monthly.
council.
7.2 Policy Framework Another of the modules in RelianSys is Corporate Department. Partially
Monitor which schedules, reminds, tracks Completed – fully completed by
June 30, 2020.
Recommendations Council Actions Timeframe and Responsible March 2020 Update on status
Officers
a) Ensure updated policies are in and centralises critical information in one
place for key operational issues. place.
c) Policy review should form part of This also allows for assigning
the governance schedule. responsibilities and tracking progress on
the dashboard.
c) Senior management and council
need to be accountable for the This will form part of the governance
policy review process. schedule which will be reported on six
monthly to Council.
7.3 Record Keeping Council acknowledges that the Record An external cost on converting An EDRMS has been procured
Keeping across the organisation is poor permanent records to digital and is being implemented, with
a) Records are to be kept in and requires significant investment and will be obtained and a staged expected roll out between July
accordance with the Public improvement to comply with the Public approach over several budget 1 – September 30, 2020.
Records Act. Records Act. cycles taken to digitalise.
The PROV record keeping
b) All records should be converted Council has partnered with five other rural online training will be rolled out
to electronic format. councils in a Rural Council Transformation Records Management to be across the organisation in the
Program that includes the acquisition of a procured and implemented in coming months.
c) Training should be provided to Finance, Payroll and Records Management 2020 through the RCTF.
all staff on record storage and System. A Business Case for the project is Learning Management System
their responsibilities under the being finalised and Procurement is Training to be scheduled in 2020 to include Information Privacy.
Public Records Act as a high intended to take place in 2020. once Records Management
priority. System is identified through Costs for converting files were
Training will be an important part of this Procurement. financially prohibitive.
process and budgeting in the 20/21 HR Following discussions with
Training budget will include Records PROV, quotes for a new,
Management training. compliant records storage shed
to shelve existing paper records
are being sought in lieu. Capital
Recommendations Council Actions Timeframe and Responsible March 2020 Update on status
Officers
budget for storage shed
proposed in 20/21 budget.
7.6 Delegations The delegations are currently up to date Designated in RelianSys – Authorisations and Delegations
and are also included as a module with completed. training to be held on 12 March
Authorisations in the RelianSys suite of 2020 for Councillors and key
a) Ensure that all delegations made
software Council has purchased and Council personnel. Training
by council are reviewed within
implemented utilising Maddocks updates facilitated by Maddocks.
the period of 12 months after a
and templates.
general election in accordance
with section 98 (6) of the Act.
b) Ensure that all staff holding a
delegated authority are trained
in regard to their obligations
under the delegations.
7.7 Local Laws A new Meeting Local Law was adopted by Completed.
Council at the September 2019 Ordinary
Recommendations Council Actions Timeframe and Responsible March 2020 Update on status
Officers
a ) Develop a process whereby local meeting and gazetted on October 3, 2019 To be incorporated as the next Quotes obtained for new
laws reviews commence at least and is now in operation. module is rolled out. website and proposed for
12 months prior to their expiry 20/21 budget.
date and are adopted before the Meeting and Community Local Laws are Budget for a new website
local law sunset dates. incorporated in the Governance schedule proposed in 20/21 Council
in Reliansys. Budget.
c) Include the local laws review as
part of the governance schedule. Consideration in the 20/21 Budget for an
improved website will be made. The
c) Publish all local laws on the current website is outdated, no longer fit
Council website. for purpose and difficult to keep up to date
due to onerous back end functionality.
Agenda
RECOMMENDATION:
That Council:
1. Acknowledge receipt of the additional $1,322,974 funding from the Federal
Government.
2. Propose that the funding be allocated to the following priorities
a) $1,050,000 to Capital Works Road funding
b) $150,000 to Sport and Recreation Grant funding for three new netball
focused facilities.
c) $122,974 to be spent across fourteen communities for landscaping and
beautification works to improve streetscapes
ATTACHMENTS
Nil
DISCUSSION
On 22 May 2020 the Federal Government announced additional funding for all Australian
Local Governments with allocations based on the formula used for Roads to Recovery
funding.
Eligibility for the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program is quite broad,
however a work plan must be submitted and approved.
It is recommended that Council utilise a significant portion of the funding on roads to offset
the lost state road funding with the end of Fixing Country Roads Program. This will enable
Council to still invest six million dollars in to road capital in 2020/21 and keep the road
asset renewal gap as small as possible.
As per the earlier Council report, it is recommended that $150,000 be used towards
contribution funding for a significant Sport and Recreation Grant.
It is also recommended that a small allocation be directed to streetscapes, allowing Council
to address many of the Community Action Plans for beautification. Staff would be able to
undertake the works and the money would be directed to the purchase of planter boxes,
plants and other forms of street furniture such as BBQ shelters.
RELEVANT LAW
Council is required to manage its assets including significant road assets and continue to
manage its fiscal and asset management responsibilities as determined in the Local
Government Act 2020.
COUNCIL PLANS AND POLICIES
The Yarriambiack Shire Council has an Asset Management Policy and Asset Management
Implementation Strategy which were both adopted in 2019 and set out the asset
responsibilities for Council including the ongoing maintenance and improvement of our
significant road infrastructure.
AGENDA Ordinary Meeting of Council
Issue Date: 24 June 2020 Page 268/ 329
Agenda
SUMMARY
Victorian Local Governments undertake annual Community Satisfaction Surveys as a
requirement of performance reporting and the 2020 results have been provided to Council.
RECOMMENDATION:
That Council:
1. Acknowledge receipt of the 2019 Yarriambiack Customer Satisfaction Survey
2. Publicly release the survey results
ATTACHMENTS
2020 JWS Yarriambiack Customer Satisfaction Survey
DISCUSSION
The 2020 Customer Satisfaction Survey for Yarriambiack Council has returned average
results with overall performance two points below the state average of 58 and in line with
the small rural council average of 56.
The overall state average and rural averages for the survey have trended down between
2019 and 2020 and this has also been borne out in Yarriambiack results with a decline in
six of the categories and a slight increase in Customer service.
Yarriambiack results are still at or above the small council state average, with the
exception of sealed local roads, however the recent Local Government Inspectorate report
may have also contributed to the decline in overall performance and Council direction
results.
The next twelve months will see Council focused on elections and a new Community Vision,
Council Plan and Community Engagement Policy to ensure we can improve on satisfaction
results.
RELEVANT LAW
The Local Government (Planning and Reporting) Regulations 2014 sets out a number of
performance indicators required to be reported on by Council. The annual Customer
Satisfaction Survey is conducted annually on behalf of Council by JWS services to allow
for the required information to be collected and reported on in Councils Annual Plan.
COUNCIL PLANS AND POLICIES
The Yarriambiack Performance Reporting Framework sets out a number of Council
documents that are required to monitor and ensure Council is accountable for its
objectives. The Annual Customer Satisfaction Survey provides a range of measurable data
for these documents.
RELATED COUNCIL DECISIONS
The 2019 Customer Satisfaction Survey was adopted for public release by Yarriambiack
Council at their 2019 June Ordinary Meeting.
OPTIONS
That Council await the State Government release of the Community Satisfaction Survey,
due to occur on 1 July 2020.
SUSTAINABILITY IMPLICATIONS
The Customer Satisfaction Survey is an important indicator on the direction of Council.
Many of the results of the survey are indicators used in the Annual Report. It is important
that Council continue to demonstrate commitment to sustained and improved customer
satisfaction and respond to the matters raised in the survey including target groups and
areas that are below state wide trends.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
The Customer Satisfaction Survey results are generated from a number of set questions
asked to a minimum of 400 Yarriambiack residents across a range of demographics
including age, gender and ward location.
RISK
Utilising the Risk Management Framework 2019, the following assessment has been made:
Yarriambiack Shire
Council
Coordinated by the Department of
Environment, Land, Water and Planning
on behalf of Victorian councils
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
Contents
Background and objectives 3
Key findings and recommendations 4
Detailed findings 10
Overall performance 11
Customer service 19
Council direction 25
Individual service areas 29
Community consultation and engagement 30
Lobbying on behalf of the community 32
Decisions made in the interest of the 34
community
Condition of sealed local roads 36
Detailed demographics 38
Appendix A: Index scores, margins of error 40
and significant differences
Appendix B: Further project information 45
2
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
3
Key findings and
recommendations
4
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
State-wide average
Yarriambiack 56
Compared to
Lobbying
Consultation &
engagement
State-wide 58
Lobbying
Consultation &
engagement
Small Rural 56
5
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
72 72 72 73
70 70 71
69 68
67
66 65
63 63 62 63
61 64 65 61 62
63 60
59 60 59
64 59 60 61 58
61 58
60 58
58 59 59 56
57
55 55 55 55
52 53
50
47
38 38 42
40
38
35
Overall performance 6 35 37 14 6 1
Community consultation 9 38 29 14 5 7
Lobbying 7 32 30 12 3 15
Customer service 33 40 18 4 6 1
7
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
Small
Yarriambiack Yarriambiack State-wide Highest Lowest
Services Rural
2020 2019 2020 score score
2020
Aged 50-64
Overall performance 56 62 56 58 Aged 65+ years
years
Aged 50-64
Overall council direction 53 55 50 51 Aged 65+ years
years
Warracknabeal Dunmunkle
Customer service 73 72 70 70
residents residents
Aged 50-64
Community decisions 58 63 53 53 Aged 65+ years
years
Aged 50-64
Sealed local roads 40 42 51 54 Aged 65+ years
years
Significantly higher / lower than Yarriambiack Shire Council 2020 result at the 95% confidence interval. 8
Please see Appendix A for explanation of significant differences and index scores.
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
Council’s rated performance on most service areas evaluated has declined in the past 12
months, some significantly so. This is likely to have contributed to the greatest shift in
Council’s overall performance rating to date, a significant six-point decline from 2019.
Overview
Despite this, Council is rated in line with both the Small Rural and State-wide Council
averages. Council has the capacity to improve upon this result, evidenced by its ability to
recover from the only other significant decline in overall performance, recorded in 2016.
Community decisions and consultation and engagement are areas that may warrant some
extra attention in the coming 12 months. Performance ratings in these service areas are at
their lowest level recorded having declined significantly over the past 12 months. Council
Focus areas
can be viewed more positively here, as evidenced by higher ratings in previous years. In
addition, residents aged 50 to 64 years are consistently the most critical of Council’s
performance, and so particular attention should be paid to interactions with this cohort.
Positively, in most service areas evaluated, Council is rated significantly higher than or in
Comparison to state line with the Small Rural group and State-wide average. The exception to this is sealed
and area grouping local roads, where Council is rated significantly lower than the Small Rural group and
State-wide council averages.
Council is encouraged to strengthen the gains it has made in the area of sealed roads.
Consolidate gains Council’s result this year marks the consolidation of an upward trend and thus reflective of
over time Council’s ability to strengthen its year on year improvements. Council should also look to
maintain and build upon its improved performance in customer service.
9
DETAILED
FINDINGS
10
Overall
performance
11
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
Overall performance
The overall performance index score of 56 for Yarriambiack
Shire Council represents a significant six-point decline on Overall performance
the 2019 result, the most significant change in overall Results shown are index scores out of 100.
Overall performance
65+ 58 66 67 62 62 66 67 69 62
State-wide 58 60 59 59 59 60 61 60 60
Warracknabeal 57 63 61 60 56 61 65 n/a 62
Women 57 64 62 58 60 64 64 65 61
35-49 57 59 56 58 53 59 60 60 59
Hopetoun 56 60 64 61 61 66 65 n/a 64
Yarriambiack 56 62 62 60 59 63 65 64 61
Men 54 60 62 61 57 62 66 63 62
18-34 54 63 63 61 58 65 71 66 66
Dunmunkle 54 62 61 59 61 63 64 n/a 58
50-64 51 55 58 58 59 59 62 60 59
Q3. ON BALANCE, for the last twelve months, how do you feel about the performance of Yarriambiack Shire Council, not just on one or two
issues, BUT OVERALL across all responsibility areas? Has it been very good, good, average, poor or very poor?
Base: All respondents. Councils asked state-wide: 62 Councils asked group: 18 13
Note: Please see Appendix A for explanation of significant differences.
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
Overall performance
2020 Yarriambiack 6 35 37 14 6 1
2019 Yarriambiack 11 37 38 9 2 2
2018 Yarriambiack 9 43 37 7 3 2
2017 Yarriambiack 10 38 36 11 4 1
2016 Yarriambiack 8 36 40 10 3 3
2015 Yarriambiack 9 47 34 8 21
2014 Yarriambiack 13 46 28 7 3 2
2013 Yarriambiack 16 37 38 7 3 1
2012 Yarriambiack 10 41 35 8 4 2
State-wide 9 37 36 11 6 1
Small Rural 8 34 37 13 7 1
Hopetoun 7 33 37 17 4 3
Warracknabeal 8 34 40 12 5
Dunmunkle 3 40 34 14 9 1
Men 7 35 32 21 5
Women 5 36 42 7 6 2
18-34 7 37 33 13 10
35-49 8 34 36 15 5 3
50-64 6 25 42 19 8 1
65+ 6 40 37 12 4 1
Very good Good Average Poor Very poor Can't say
Q3. ON BALANCE, for the last twelve months, how do you feel about the performance of Yarriambiack Shire Council, not just on one or two
issues, BUT OVERALL across all responsibility areas? Has it been very good, good, average, poor or very poor? 14
Base: All respondents. Councils asked state-wide: 62 Councils asked group: 18
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
Lobbying 58 58 59 59 57 61 65 64 60
Q2. How has Council performed on [RESPONSIBILITY AREA] over the last 12 months?
Base: All respondents. Councils asked state-wide: 62 Councils asked group: 18 17
Note: Please see Appendix A for explanation of significant differences.
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
Community decisions 9 31 40 7 5 8
Lobbying 7 32 30 12 3 15
Q2. How has Council performed on [RESPONSIBILITY AREA] over the last 12 months? 18
Base: All respondents. Councils asked state-wide: 62 Councils asked group: 18
Customer
service
19
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
63 62
61 61
58 59
57
55
50
Q5. Over the last 12 months, have you or any member of your household had any contact with Yarriambiack Shire
Council? This may have been in person, in writing, by telephone conversation, by text message, by email or via their
website or social media such as Facebook or Twitter? 21
Base: All respondents. Councils asked state-wide: 36 Councils asked group: 12
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
35-49 82p 72 66 81 69 67 66 66 69
18-34 70 53 60 55 44 45 49 63 57
Warracknabeal 66 62 62 66 50 61 56 n/a 62
Men 64 56 65 65 47 60 56 57 64
State-wide 63 61 61 58 58 60 61 60 61
Hopetoun 63 58 57 60 45 56 54 n/a 57
Yarriambiack 62 59 61 63 50 58 55 57 61
50-64 62 66 67 63 50 60 59 54 58
Women 60 61 57 61 53 55 54 57 59
Dunmunkle 55 55 64 61 57 54 54 n/a 64
65+ 50q 51 54 56 41 56 47 50 62
Q5. Over the last 12 months, have you or any member of your household had any contact with Yarriambiack Shire Council?
This may have been in person, in writing, by telephone conversation, by text message, by email or via their website or social
media such as Facebook or Twitter?
Base: All respondents. Councils asked state-wide: 36 Councils asked group: 12 22
Note: Please see Appendix A for explanation of significant differences.
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
Warracknabeal 76 75 71 75 64 69 73 n/a 62
Hopetoun 75 69 75 69 67 73 68 n/a 74
65+ 74 74 76 74 71 74 72 74 69
Men 73 71 70 73 69 72 72 67 70
35-49 73 72 70 75 67 69 67 70 68
Yarriambiack 73 72 71 72 68 72 70 70 69
18-34 73 81 67 67 50 67 71 61 73
Women 72 73 72 70 66 73 68 74 68
State-wide 70 71 70 69 69 70 72 71 71
50-64 69 64 70 68 74 76 71 74 68
Dunmunkle 66 71 68 68 73 76 69 n/a 74
Q5c. Thinking of the most recent contact, how would you rate Yarriambiack Shire Council for customer service?
Please keep in mind we do not mean the actual outcome but rather the actual service that was received.
Base: All respondents who have had contact with Council in the last 12 months.
Councils asked state-wide: 62 Councils asked group: 18 23
Note: Please see Appendix A for explanation of significant differences.
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
2020 Yarriambiack 33 40 18 4 6 1
2019 Yarriambiack 30 44 16 7 4
2018 Yarriambiack 30 41 16 7 5
2017 Yarriambiack 31 38 19 7 3 2
2016 Yarriambiack 28 36 18 8 7 3
2015 Yarriambiack 28 43 19 8 21
2014 Yarriambiack 32 36 19 5 7 1
2013 Yarriambiack 28 41 18 10 3
2012 Yarriambiack 26 42 20 6 6 1
State-wide 31 36 17 7 6 1
Small Rural 31 37 18 7 7 1
Hopetoun 33 47 9 2 7 2
Warracknabeal 40 29 26 3 1
Dunmunkle 22 46 16 6 10
Men 35 41 14 1 8 1
Women 30 39 22 6 3 1
18-34 33 43 10 10 5
35-49 29 44 22 5
50-64 36 30 16 3 12 2
65+ 33 40 20 3 3 1
Very good Good Average Poor Very poor Can't say
Q5c. Thinking of the most recent contact, how would you rate Yarriambiack Shire Council for customer service? Please
keep in mind we do not mean the actual outcome but rather the actual service that was received.
Base: All respondents who have had contact with Council in the last 12 months. 24
Councils asked state-wide: 62 Councils asked group: 18
Council direction
25
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
Council direction
26
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
65+ 58 58 55 59 54 53 56 65 58
18-34 53 61 48 57 42 60 59 55 57
Warracknabeal 53 54 48 54 44 49 58 n/a 54
Hopetoun 53 52 52 58 49 56 56 n/a 59
Men 53 54 49 54 45 49 57 56 55
Yarriambiack 53 55 50 55 47 52 55 58 55
Women 53 56 50 57 50 54 53 59 55
Dunmunkle 52 59 50 54 50 52 51 n/a 54
State-wide 51 53 52 53 51 53 53 53 52
35-49 47 49 44 50 38 45 53 52 51
50-64 45 50 48 54 48 49 53 56 54
Q6. Over the last 12 months, what is your view of the direction of Yarriambiack Shire Council’s overall performance?
Base: All respondents. Councils asked state-wide: 62 Councils asked group: 18 27
Note: Please see Appendix A for explanation of significant differences.
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
2020 Yarriambiack 24 54 18 4
2019 Yarriambiack 20 67 10 3
2018 Yarriambiack 12 70 13 5
2017 Yarriambiack 19 66 9 7
2016 Yarriambiack 11 68 17 4
2015 Yarriambiack 13 73 10 4
2014 Yarriambiack 18 68 9 5
2013 Yarriambiack 23 64 9 4
2012 Yarriambiack 19 71 9 2
State-wide 18 61 16 5
Small Rural 19 58 19 4
Hopetoun 25 52 19 3
Warracknabeal 25 53 19 3
Dunmunkle 20 57 16 7
Men 24 55 19 2
Women 23 53 18 6
18-34 27 53 20
35-49 22 49 27 2
50-64 17 50 26 8
65+ 26 58 11 6
Improved Stayed the same Deteriorated Can't say
Q6. Over the last 12 months, what is your view of the direction of Yarriambiack Shire Council’s overall performance? 28
Base: All respondents. Councils asked state-wide: 62 Councils asked group: 18
Individual service
areas
29
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
Hopetoun 63 65 65 61 62 67 66 n/a 65
65+ 62 67 67 62 64 67 67 71 65
Men 59 61 62 60 58 61 68 63 63
Yarriambiack 59 63 62 60 60 63 67 66 63
18-34 59 63 61 62 54 62 75 64 68
Women 58 65 62 60 61 64 66 68 62
Dunmunkle 57 64 62 58 64 63 68 n/a 62
35-49 57 56 56 55 55 59 65 63 62
Warracknabeal 56 60 60 61 53 61 68 n/a 62
State-wide 55q 56 55 55 54 56 57 57 57
50-64 53 61 60 59 60 60 64 63 58
Q2. How has Council performed on ‘Community consultation and engagement’ over the last 12 months?
Base: All respondents. Councils asked state-wide: 62 Councils asked group: 18 30
Note: Please see Appendix A for explanation of significant differences.
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
2020 Yarriambiack 9 38 29 14 5 7
2019 Yarriambiack 13 35 30 11 2 9
2018 Yarriambiack 10 44 26 9 5 6
2017 Yarriambiack 10 38 25 13 5 9
2016 Yarriambiack 10 34 34 9 5 8
2015 Yarriambiack 12 39 27 9 3 10
2014 Yarriambiack 14 48 22 6 3 7
2013 Yarriambiack 14 40 31 6 2 6
2012 Yarriambiack 13 38 32 9 3 4
State-wide 8 30 32 15 7 8
Small Rural 9 30 31 16 8 6
Hopetoun 9 49 22 12 4 5
Warracknabeal 9 30 34 14 5 7
Dunmunkle 8 36 30 14 5 8
Men 9 41 27 13 5 6
Women 9 35 31 14 4 7
18-34 7 40 33 13 3 3
35-49 8 35 27 18 4 7
50-64 6 28 36 16 7 6
65+ 11 42 24 11 4 8
Very good Good Average Poor Very poor Can't say
Q2. How has Council performed on ‘Community consultation and engagement’ over the last 12 months? 31
Base: All respondents. Councils asked state-wide: 62 Councils asked group: 18
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
65+ 60 64 62 61 60 65 65 70 62
Hopetoun 60 57 65 60 59 62 64 n/a 61
18-34 59 47 63 61 53 60 71 64 63
Men 59 56 58 62 54 61 65 63 60
Warracknabeal 59 57 56 61 53 61 67 n/a 61
Yarriambiack 58 58 59 59 57 61 65 64 60
35-49 57 54 51 58 53 58 64 63 60
Women 57 59 60 57 59 62 65 65 60
Dunmunkle 56 60 56 56 58 60 63 n/a 58
50-64 54 59 58 58 58 59 62 59 56
State-wide 53q 54 54 54 53 55 56 55 55
Q2. How has Council performed on ‘Lobbying on behalf of the community’ over the last 12 months?
Base: All respondents. Councils asked state-wide: 62 Councils asked group: 18 32
Note: Please see Appendix A for explanation of significant differences.
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
2020 Yarriambiack 7 32 30 12 3 15
2019 Yarriambiack 8 29 31 13 3 16
2018 Yarriambiack 7 32 33 10 3 16
2017 Yarriambiack 8 34 26 9 5 18
2016 Yarriambiack 6 31 29 11 5 18
2015 Yarriambiack 8 33 33 9 1 16
2014 Yarriambiack 12 41 27 7 3 11
2013 Yarriambiack 11 36 33 5 2 12
2012 Yarriambiack 9 36 32 10 4 8
State-wide 6 24 32 13 6 19
Small Rural 6 25 31 15 7 17
Hopetoun 9 33 27 13 3 15
Warracknabeal 7 32 34 11 3 13
Dunmunkle 5 31 29 14 4 17
Men 8 34 30 10 4 15
Women 7 31 31 15 3 14
18-34 10 33 37 17 3
35-49 7 31 31 16 3 12
50-64 5 28 33 14 5 15
65+ 7 34 26 8 4 21
Very good Good Average Poor Very poor Can't say
Q2. How has Council performed on ‘Lobbying on behalf of the community’ over the last 12 months? 33
Base: All respondents. Councils asked state-wide: 62 Councils asked group: 18
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
Q2. How has Council performed on ‘Decisions made in the interest of the community’ over the last 12 months?
Base: All respondents. Councils asked state-wide: 62 Councils asked group: 18 34
Note: Please see Appendix A for explanation of significant differences.
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
2020 Yarriambiack 9 31 40 7 5 8
2019 Yarriambiack 9 44 31 8 2 7
2018 Yarriambiack 9 41 31 8 4 7
2017 Yarriambiack 9 40 30 10 4 8
2016 Yarriambiack 9 35 32 11 5 9
2015 Yarriambiack 8 44 32 6 3 7
State-wide 7 29 33 14 8 9
Small Rural 7 29 33 15 9 7
Hopetoun 10 34 42 6 2 6
Warracknabeal 9 30 39 9 6 7
Dunmunkle 8 29 39 5 8 10
Men 9 30 39 7 6 8
Women 8 32 41 7 4 8
18-34 10 33 47 3 3 3
35-49 8 26 49 4 8 5
50-64 4 25 38 16 8 9
65+ 10 35 34 6 4 10
Very good Good Average Poor Very poor Can't say
Q2. How has Council performed on ‘Decisions made in the interest of the community’ over the last 12 months? 35
Base: All respondents. Councils asked state-wide: 62 Councils asked group: 18
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
Q2. How has Council performed on ‘The condition of sealed local roads in your area’ over the last 12 months?
Base: All respondents. Councils asked state-wide: 62 Councils asked group: 18 36
Note: Please see Appendix A for explanation of significant differences.
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
2020 Yarriambiack 5 19 27 22 24 2
2019 Yarriambiack 6 21 29 22 21 1
2018 Yarriambiack 6 16 27 24 26 2
2017 Yarriambiack 5 18 26 26 25 1
2016 Yarriambiack 4 16 25 27 28 1
2015 Yarriambiack 3 17 32 25 21 1
State-wide 11 32 28 16 11 1
Small Rural 8 30 31 17 13 2
Hopetoun 9 20 24 19 26 2
Warracknabeal 1 16 28 28 24 2
Dunmunkle 6 22 29 18 22 3
Men 6 22 28 23 19 2
Women 4 17 26 21 30 3
18-34 7 20 20 23 30
35-49 6 20 25 25 25
50-64 2 13 21 31 29 4
65+ 5 21 34 17 19 4
Very good Good Average Poor Very poor Can't say
Q2. How has Council performed on ‘The condition of sealed local roads in your area’ over the last 12 months? 37
Base: All respondents. Councils asked state-wide: 62 Councils asked group: 18
Detailed
demographics
38
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
2020 gender
2020 age
6% 4% 6%
12% 14%
32% 19%
44% 40%
18% 20%
23%
20% 22% 19%
18-24 25-34 35-49 50-64 65+ 18-24 25-34 35-49 50-64 65+ 18-24 25-34 35-49 50-64 65+
S3. [Record gender] / S4. To which of the following age groups do you belong?
Base: All respondents. Councils asked state-wide: 62 Councils asked group: 18
Please note that for the reason of simplifying reporting, interlocking age and gender reporting has not been included in this report. Interlocking 39
age and gender analysis is still available in the dashboard and data tables provided alongside this report.
Appendix A:
Index scores,
margins of error
and significant
differences
40
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
Appendix A:
Index Scores
Index Scores
SCALE INDEX
% RESULT INDEX VALUE
Many questions ask respondents to rate council CATEGORIES FACTOR
performance on a five-point scale, for example, from
Very good 9% 100 9
‘very good’ to ‘very poor’, with ‘can’t say’ also a
possible response category. To facilitate ease of Good 40% 75 30
reporting and comparison of results over time, starting Average 37% 50 19
from the 2012 survey and measured against the state- Poor 9% 25 2
wide result and the council group, an ‘Index Score’ has
Very poor 4% 0 0
been calculated for such measures.
INDEX SCORE
Can’t say 1% --
The Index Score is calculated and represented as a 60
score out of 100 (on a 0 to 100 scale), with ‘can’t say’
responses excluded from the analysis. The ‘% SCALE INDEX
RESULT’ for each scale category is multiplied by the % RESULT INDEX VALUE
CATEGORIES FACTOR
‘INDEX FACTOR’. This produces an ‘INDEX VALUE’
Improved 36% 100 36
for each category, which are then summed to produce
the ‘INDEX SCORE’, equating to ‘60’ in the following Stayed the
40% 50 20
same
example.
Deteriorated 23% 0 0
Similarly, an Index Score has been calculated for the
INDEX SCORE
Core question ‘Performance direction in the last 12 Can’t say 1% --
56
months’, based on the following scale for each
performance measure category, with ‘Can’t say’
responses excluded from the calculation.
41
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
Appendix A:
Margins of error
The sample size for the 2020 State-wide Local Maximum
Actual
Government Community Satisfaction Survey for margin of error
survey Weighted
Demographic at 95%
Yarriambiack Shire Council was n=400. Unless sample base
confidence
size
otherwise noted, this is the total sample base for all interval
reported charts and tables.
Yarriambiack
400 400 +/-4.7
The maximum margin of error on a sample of Shire Council
approximately n=400 interviews is +/-4.7% at the 95% Men 183 203 +/-7.1
confidence level for results around 50%. Margins of Women 217 197 +/-6.5
error will be larger for any sub-samples. As an Hopetoun 126 129 +/-8.7
example, a result of 50% can be read confidently as Warracknabeal +/-8.1
142 145
falling midway in the range 45.3% - 54.7%.
Dunmunkle 132 125 +/-8.5
Maximum margins of error are listed in the table below,
18-34 years 30 74 +/-18.1
based on a population of 5,300 people aged 18 years
or over for Yarriambiack Shire Council, according to 35-49 years 45 72 +/-14.7
42
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
Appendix A:
Significant difference reporting notation
Within tables and index score charts throughout this
report, statistically significant differences at the 95%
confidence level are represented by upward directing Overall Performance – Index Scores
green () and downward directing red arrows (). (example extract only)
43
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
Appendix A:
Index score significant difference calculation
The test applied to the Indexes was an Independent All figures can be sourced from the detailed cross
Mean Test, as follows: tabulations.
Z Score = ($1 - $2) / Sqrt (($5^2 / $3) + ($6^2 / $4)) The test was applied at the 95% confidence interval, so
Where: if the Z Score was greater than +/- 1.954 the scores are
significantly different.
• $1 = Index Score 1
• $2 = Index Score 2
• $3 = unweighted sample count 1
• $4 = unweighted sample count 2
• $5 = standard deviation 1
• $6 = standard deviation 2
44
Appendix B:
Further project
information
45
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
Appendix B:
Further information
Further information about the report and explanations Contacts
about the State-wide Local Government Community
For further queries about the conduct and reporting of
Satisfaction Survey can be found in this section
the 2020 State-wide Local Government Community
including:
Satisfaction Survey, please contact JWS Research on
• Background and objectives
(03) 8685 8555 or via email:
• Analysis and reporting [email protected]
• Glossary of terms
Detailed survey tabulations
Detailed survey tabulations are available in supplied
Excel file.
46
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
Appendix B:
Survey methodology and sampling
The 2020 results are compared with previous years, as Any variation of +/-1% between individual results and
detailed below: net scores in this report or the detailed survey
• 2020, n=400 completed interviews, conducted in the period tabulations is due to rounding. In reporting, ‘—’ denotes
of 30th January – 22nd March. not mentioned and ‘0%’ denotes mentioned by less
• 2019, n=401 completed interviews, conducted in the period
than 1% of respondents. ‘Net’ scores refer to two or
of 1st February – 30th March. more response categories being combined into one
category for simplicity of reporting.
• 2018, n=400 completed interviews, conducted in the period
of 1st February – 30th March. This survey was conducted by Computer Assisted
• 2017, n=400 completed interviews, conducted in the period Telephone Interviewing (CATI) as a representative
of 1st February – 30th March. random probability survey of residents aged 18+ years
in Yarriambiack Shire Council.
• 2016, n=400 completed interviews, conducted in the period
of 1st February – 30th March. Survey sample matched to the demographic profile of
• 2015, n=400 completed interviews, conducted in the period Yarriambiack Shire Council as determined by the most
of 1st February – 30th March. recent ABS population estimates was purchased from
• 2014, n=400 completed interviews, conducted in the period an accredited supplier of publicly available phone
of 31st January – 11th March. records, including up to 60% mobile phone numbers to
cater to the diversity of residents within Yarriambiack
• 2013, n=400 completed interviews, conducted in the period
of 1st February – 24th March. Shire Council, particularly younger people.
• 2012, n=400 completed interviews, conducted in the period A total of n=400 completed interviews were achieved in
of 18th May – 30th June. Yarriambiack Shire Council. Survey fieldwork was
Minimum quotas of gender within age groups were conducted in the period of 30th January – 22nd March,
applied during the fieldwork phase. Post-survey 2020.
weighting was then conducted to ensure accurate
representation of the age and gender profile of the
Yarriambiack Shire Council area.
47
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
Appendix B:
Analysis and reporting
All participating councils are listed in the State-wide Wherever appropriate, results for Yarriambiack Shire
report published on the DELWP website. In 2020, 62 of Council for this 2020 State-wide Local Government
the 79 Councils throughout Victoria participated in this Community Satisfaction Survey have been compared
survey. For consistency of analysis and reporting against other participating councils in the Small Rural
across all projects, Local Government Victoria has group and on a state-wide basis. Please note that
aligned its presentation of data to use standard council council groupings changed for 2015, and as such
groupings. Accordingly, the council reports for the comparisons to council group results before that time
community satisfaction survey provide analysis using can not be made within the reported charts.
these standard council groupings. Please note that
councils participating across 2012-2020 vary slightly.
Council Groups
Yarriambiack Shire Council is classified as a Small
Rural council according to the following classification
list:
• Metropolitan, Interface, Regional Centres, Large
Rural & Small Rural.
Councils participating in the Small Rural group are:
• Alpine, Ararat, Benalla, Buloke, Central Goldfields,
Gannawarra, Hepburn, Hindmarsh, Indigo, Loddon,
Mansfield, Murrindindi, Northern Grampians,
Pyrenees, Queenscliffe, Strathbogie, West Wimmera
and Yarriambiack.
48
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
Appendix B:
2012 survey revision
The survey was revised in 2012. As a result: As such, the results of the 2012 State-wide Local
• The survey is now conducted as a representative Government Community Satisfaction Survey should be
random probability survey of residents aged 18 years considered as a benchmark. Please note that
or over in local councils, whereas previously it was comparisons should not be made with the State-wide
conducted as a ‘head of household’ survey. Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey
results from 2011 and prior due to the methodological
• As part of the change to a representative resident and sampling changes. Comparisons in the period
survey, results are now weighted post survey to the 2012-2020 have been made throughout this report as
known population distribution of Yarriambiack Shire appropriate.
Council according to the most recently available
Australian Bureau of Statistics population estimates,
whereas the results were previously not weighted.
• The service responsibility area performance
measures have changed significantly and the rating
scale used to assess performance has also
changed.
49
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
Appendix B:
Core, optional and tailored questions
Core, optional and tailored questions Reporting of results for these core questions can
Over and above necessary geographic and always be compared against other participating
demographic questions required to ensure sample councils in the council group and against all
representativeness, a base set of questions for the participating councils state-wide. Alternatively, some
2020 State-wide Local Government Community questions in the 2020 State-wide Local Government
Satisfaction Survey was designated as ‘Core’ and Community Satisfaction Survey were optional. Councils
therefore compulsory inclusions for all participating also had the ability to ask tailored questions specific
Councils. only to their council.
50
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
Appendix B:
Analysis and reporting
Reporting
Every council that participated in the 2020 State-wide
Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey
receives a customised report. In addition, the State
government is supplied with this State-wide summary
report of the aggregate results of ‘Core’ and ‘Optional’
questions asked across all council areas surveyed,
which is available at:
http://www.delwp.vic.gov.au/local-
government/strengthening-councils/council-community-
satisfaction-survey.
51
J00858 Community Satisfaction Survey 2020 – Yarriambiack Shire Council
Appendix B:
Glossary of terms
Core questions: Compulsory inclusion questions for all Percentages: Also referred to as ‘detailed results’,
councils participating in the CSS. meaning the proportion of responses, expressed as a
CSS: 2020 Victorian Local Government Community percentage.
Satisfaction Survey. Sample: The number of completed interviews, e.g. for
Council group: One of five classified groups, a council or within a demographic sub-group.
comprising: metropolitan, interface, regional centres, Significantly higher / lower: The result described is
large rural and small rural. significantly higher or lower than the comparison result
Council group average: The average result for all based on a statistical significance test at the 95%
participating councils in the council group. confidence limit. If the result referenced is statistically
higher or lower then this will be specifically mentioned,
Highest / lowest: The result described is the highest or however not all significantly higher or lower results are
lowest result across a particular demographic sub- referenced in summary reporting.
group e.g. men, for the specific question being
reported. Reference to the result for a demographic Statewide average: The average result for all
sub-group being the highest or lowest does not imply participating councils in the State.
that it is significantly higher or lower, unless this is Tailored questions: Individual questions tailored by
specifically mentioned. and only reported to the commissioning council.
Index score: A score calculated and represented as a Weighting: Weighting factors are applied to the sample
score out of 100 (on a 0 to 100 scale). This score is for each council based on available age and gender
sometimes reported as a figure in brackets next to the proportions from ABS census information to ensure
category being described, e.g. men 50+ (60). reported results are proportionate to the actual
Optional questions: Questions which councils had an population of the council, rather than the achieved
option to include or not. survey sample.
52
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Agenda
SUMMARY
Council received a Permit Application on the 23/04/2020 from Mitchell Daly to keep a 3rd
dog at his property at 27 Swann Street, Brim.
RECOMMENDATION:
That Council accepts the permit application which is inclusive of conditions and if the
conditions are breached the permit will be revoked.
ATTACHMENTS
Nil
DISCUSSION
On 18/050/20 the Local Laws Officer met with the applicant at his property at 27 Swann
Street, Brim and inspected his property. The property has a good sized backyard with high
fencing that can prevent the dogs from escaping. All 3 dogs have access to a couple of
sheds for protection from the weather. Currently the dogs are sleeping inside.
The applicant’s property is located on a corner block with two immediate neighbours. The
closest neighbour has not objected to the permit application.
All 3 dogs are quiet and getting older, The Border Collie and Greyhound are both around
12 years old.
The applicant has had to purchase a young Rottweiler to act as a guard dog, as he has
been having security issues and was advised by the local police to do so. The Local Laws
Officer found the Rottweiler to be quite friendly towards himself.
Council has not recorded any complaints about any of the applicant’s dogs.
The dogs are well cared for and much loved and the applicant has been quite transparent
in his reasons for wanting to keep a 3rd dog.
RELEVANT LAW
Yarriambiack General Local Law No.5 – Clause 412 – Limit to the number of animals to be
kept.
COUNCIL PLANS AND POLICIES
Not applicable
RELATED COUNCIL DECISIONS
Not applicable
OPTIONS
Refuse the application for excess animals on the property.
SUSTAINABILITY IMPLICATIONS
Community Considerations:
Council has received one objection from a neighbour; with irrelevant objections to the
decision being considered by Council about keeping of excess animals
Environmental Considerations
Possible excessive noise from barking.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Not applicable
RISK
Assess the risk for the decision.
Utilising the Risk Management Framework 2019, the following assessment has been made:
SUMMARY
Council received correspondence from Matthew Webster from 161 Wathe Reserve Road
Patchewollock, proposing a town boundary change.
Council advertised the proposed changes as per the Geographic Guidelines with no
submissions received.
RECOMMENDATION:
That Council register the proposed change with Geographic Names.
ATTACHMENTS
Nil
DISCUSSION
Council received correspondence from Matthew Webster proposing a town boundary
change. Matthew and his family have recently moved to 161 Wathe Reserve Road
Patchewollock and have found the change of towns to be difficult for their mixed farming
operation.
Majority of the farm and previous address is within the Hopetoun boundary which now
they are being questioned about their locality, charged extra for freight on some occasions
and have had mail and parcels being sent to Patchewollock before being returned to their
Hopetoun PO Box.
Currently the primary house is only 200m from the current boundary and from there it is
29km to Patchewollock and 21km from Hopetoun. Hopetoun is where the children attend
school, kinder and day care and also where they do all of their shopping and participate in
sport.
To make it a great deal easier for the business operations Matthew would like to propose
to change the boundary of Hopetoun to include his block.
RELEVANT LAW
Local councils determine their locality names and boundaries in accordance with
the Naming rules for places in Victoria, Statutory requirements for naming roads, features
and localities - 2016
COUNCIL PLANS AND POLICIES
Not applicable
RELATED COUNCIL DECISIONS
Council approved to follow due process of the Geographic guidelines and advertised the
proposed change in all relevant papers and social media platforms.
OPTIONS
Not Applicable
SUSTAINABILITY IMPLICATIONS
There are no sustainability implications.
AGENDA Ordinary Meeting of Council
Issue Date: 24 June 2020 Page 327/ 329
Agenda
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Council advertised the proposed change in all relevant papers and social media platforms
to reach and engage the community that would be most affected by the proposal.
RISK
Assess the risk for the decision.
Utilising the Risk Management Framework 2019, the following assessment has been made:
This will create an extraordinary vacancy under Section 258 of the Local Government Act
2020 and the Minister for Local Government and Victoria Electoral Commission will need
to be advised in writing of the vacancy within three business days.
It is recommended that the extraordinary vacancy not be filled as the General election is
within six months and the costs associated with filling an extraordinary vacancy would be
avoided without compromising the Hopetoun Ward representation for an extended period
of time.
The next meeting of Council will be held on Wednesday, 22 July 2020 at 9:30am at
Warracknabeal.
CLOSE
___________________ Mayor