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State of our City Report

2021-2024

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Acknowledgement of Traditional Custodians

Cumberland Council acknowledges the Darug Nation and People as Traditional Custodians of the land on which the Cumberland Local Government Area (LGA) is situated and pays respect to Aboriginal Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples as the First Peoples of Australia. Cumberland Council also acknowledges other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples living in the Cumberland Local Government Area and reaffirms that we will work closely with all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to advance reconciliation within the area.

Cover Image: Merrylands Civic Square

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CUMBERLAND CITY COUNCIL | STATE OF OUR CITY REPORT 2021-2024


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Contents

INTRODUCTION 4

Challenges 15

Welcome 5

COVID-19 Pandemic

16

Our Elected Representatives

6

Strategic Alignment

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The Integrated Planning and Reporting (IP&R) Framework

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Strategic Goal 1 Supporting Community Health, Safety and Wellbeing

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Reporting Obligations

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Strategic Goal 2 Enhancing the Natural and Built Environment

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Reporting Methodology

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Strategic Goal 3 Delivering Sustainable Infrastructure and Services

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Cumberland’s Shared Vision, Values and Aspirations

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Strategic Goal 4 Providing Local Leadership

31

Measuring the Community Strategic Plan 2017-2027

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How we are Changing 34

Role of our Partners

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Community Values

35

PERFORMANCE AND PROGRESS 11

Effectiveness of the Community Strategic Plan 2017-2027

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The Term in Review - Summary

Financial Highlights

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12

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Highlights 13

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CUMBERLAND CITY COUNCIL | STATE OF OUR CITY REPORT 2021-2024


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Introduction

Mitch Tambo performing at Australia Day

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Welcome

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Our Elected Representatives

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The Integrated Planning and Reporting (IP&R) Framework

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Reporting Obligations

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Reporting Methodology

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Cumberland’s Shared Vision, Values and Aspirations

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Measuring the Community Strategic Plan 2017-2027

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Role of our Partners

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Welcome Welcome to Cumberland’s State of our City Report 2021-2024. This report provides an overview to the Cumberland Community of how effective Council has been in delivering against the objectives set out in the Community Strategic Plan (CSP) 2017-2027 over the December 2021 - September 2024 Council term. Conveyed in this document is a summary of what has been delivered, challenges experienced and the current status.

Tabla Drums at Nowruz Festival

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CUMBERLAND CITY COUNCIL | STATE OF OUR CITY REPORT 2021-2024


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Our Elected Representatives Cumberland City Council was served by 15 elected representatives across five Wards during the Term of Council. Councillors have the responsibility of representing their community to identify priorities, services and standards.

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Granville Ward

Councillor Steve Christou

Councillor Ola Hamed

Councillor Joseph Rahme

Councillor Dr Diane Colman

Councillor Greg Cummings

Councillor Eddy Sarkis

Councillor Kun Huang

Councillor Sabrin Farooqui

Councillor Helen Hughes

Councillor Glenn Elmore

Councillor Paul Garrard

Councillor Mohamad Hussein

Councillor Suman Saha

Councillor Lisa Lake

Councillor Michael Zaiter

Greystanes Ward

Councillor Lisa Lake served as Mayor for the full Council term. Please note, the following Councillors served as Deputy Mayor during the Council term: Councillor Kun Huang - 12 January 2022 to 28 September 2022 Councillor Suman Saha - 28 September 2022 to 27 September 2023 Councillor Ola Hamed - 27 September 2023 to 13 September 2024. Regents Park Ward

South Granville Ward

Wentworthville Ward

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The Integrated Planning and Reporting (IP&R) Framework Under the NSW Local Government Act 1993, councils are mandated to adopt a robust approach to planning and decision-making through the Integrated Planning and Reporting (IP&R) Framework. The IP&R framework is central to all council plans, guiding how councils provide leadership, plan for the future and make decisions about services and resources. The framework emphasises that IP&R should be at the core of all council plans, activities, resourcing decisions and improvement strategies. State Plans & Strategies

All councils in NSW use the IP&R framework to guide their planning and reporting activities. The framework provides a clear picture of the council’s direction and how it plans to achieve its goals, through various plans and strategies. These include the: • •

• •

Community Strategic Plan Other Council Strategies and Plans

Resourcing Strategy

Examples Include: Disability Inclusion Action Plan Local Strategic Planning Statement Environmental Strategies

This framework of documents is designed to ensure that NSW councils are undertaking long term planning for the future of their communities, and that planning is based on thorough community engagement. The framework is a cascading set of plans, strategies and reports designed to translate high level community hopes and aspirations into actionable activities for Council. Plans within the IP&R Framework ensure that Council’s activities are aligned with community priorities, are sustainably resourced and all progress is measured and reported.

Workforce Management Strategy Long-term Financial Plan Asset Management Strategy and Plans

Delivery Program Community Engagement Strategy May include Community Participation Plan

The community is at the heart of the IP&R Framework. Engagement with the community is critical in understanding the community’s priorities and vision for the future. Involving the community in each stage of the IP&R process ensures decision making is evidence based and is representative of the views of the community, rather than specific interests or assumptions. Council’s role in engagement is to: • • • • •

Joint Organisation Statement of Strategic Regional Priorities

Relevant Regional Plans and Priorities

Community Strategic Plan Resourcing Strategy » Asset Management Strategy and Plans » Workforce Management Strategy » Long Term Financial Plan » Digital Strategy (whilst not a requirement under the Local Government Act and Regulations, the development and adoption of a Digital Strategy is an invaluable part of councils’ resource planning and is considered best practice) Delivery Program Operational Plan.

Operational Plan

Annual Report

Inform Consult Involve Collaborate Empower.

The Integrated Planning and Reporting (IP&R) Framework

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Reporting Obligations Councils are accountable for ensuring progress is measured. Cumberland reports performance and progress through: • • •

Six-monthly Performance and Progress Reports Annual Reports State of our City Report.

Community Strategic Plan Highest level of strategic planning. All other plans must support achievements of Community Strategic Plan objectives

Community Engagement Strategy To support the development of all plans, policies, programs and key activities

Resourcing Strategy

Delivery Program

Operational Plan

Demonstrates how work identified in the Delivery Program and Operational Plan will be resourced

Describes elected Council’s commitment to deliver against the Community Strategic Plan over a four-year term

Identifies annual programs and activities to deliver against Delivery Program outcomes

State of Our City

Annual Report

Performance and Progress

Report prepared by outgoing Council to the community on effectiveness of implementation of the Community Strategic Plan

Reports back to the community on the work undertaken each year to deliver on the commitments of the Delivery Program and Operational Plan

Six-monthly reports that provide the community with updates on the performance and progress of the commitments outlined in the annual Operational Plan

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Reporting Methodology

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OUR VISION:

The reporting methodology follows the structure of the CSP by reporting on progress towards the four strategic goals that underpin the community’s high-level vision. Each CSP goal has benchmark data built in and this will be complemented by additional Council and community progress data Council has acquired during the term of office. There are 50 indicators with baseline targets to indicate progress towards or away from the community’s strategic goals. Within each of the goals there are measures to demonstrate whether we as a community have moved towards or away from the goal. These measures are a mixture of objective movements such as NSW crime statistics and perceived movement from wellbeing data, where 1,952 residents provided feedback on: • • • •

What the community value most in their ideal neighbourhood Place Experience: How people rate their current neighbourhood Strengths and Priorities: Attributes that are valued and performing well or poorly Community Ideas: Suggestions for improving the neighbourhood.

OUR STRATEGIC GOALS To achieve this vision, the Community Strategic Plan 2017-2027 sets out four Strategic Goals:

Cumberland’s Shared Vision, Values and Aspirations

Supporting Community Health, Safety and Wellbeing

Enhancing the Natural and Built Environment

Our shared vision statement summarises what the residents of Cumberland City want for the area now and into the future. It captures what the community values most about Cumberland City from the Community Engagement Program, as part of the Cumberland Community Strategic Plan 2017-2027.

Delivering Sustainable Infrastructure and Services

Providing Local Leadership

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Measuring the Community Strategic Plan 2017-2027

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Role of our Partners It is acknowledged that Council cannot deliver everything needed to help the community achieve their vision for the future set out in the CSP. The CSP 2017-2027 identified the key partners who play critical roles in contributing to the desired outcomes in the CSP, particularly contributing to movement in the high-level wellbeing and satisfaction indicators.

The CSP sets the broad strategic direction for Council with goals, objectives, strategies and indicators to understand if we are moving towards or away from the community’s vision. It is necessary to report the progress of the CSP and to undertake a review every four years. This State of our City Report covers the four-year term of Council and should objectively track progress against the CSP. However, this term was shorter than four years, due to postponement of the 2020 elections in response to the risks posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. A Wellbeing Survey and Community Satisfaction Survey are undertaken by an independent third party on a regular basis to provide valuable insights into our community’s perceptions based on indicators outlined in the CSP. The data obtained from these surveys assess if the community is better off as a result of what Council delivered. Constant annual measurement in statistically valid surveys carried out by independent third parties have consistently reaffirmed that the community considered Cumberland City Council’s services to be central to their capacity to achieve the CSP’s vision and goals. The data from these reports outlines that anything Council does is considered by the community to be highly likely to contribute in some degree to the quality of life the community desires.

Advocate Partner Deliver

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Performance and Progress

Performers for Lunar New Year celebrations

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The Term in Review - Summary

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Highlights

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Challenges

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COVID-19 Pandemic

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Strategic Alignment

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Strategic Goal 1 Supporting Community Health, Safety and Wellbeing

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Strategic Goal 2 Enhance the Natural and Built Environment

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Strategic Goal 3 Delivering Sustainable Infrastructure and Services

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Strategic Goal 4 Providing Local Leadership

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How we are Changing

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Community Values

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Effectiveness of the Community Strategic Plan 2017-2027

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Financial Highlights

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The Term in Review - Summary Cumberland City Council measures performance against community values, place experience, importance and satisfaction. Council does this through two separate independent surveys undertaken biennially. This report provides community sentiment and perception, coupled with importance and satisfaction of Council services. Statistics from reputable sources as well as Council performance data on the delivery of its services is included to understand objective performance. Overall, community values and perception has remained consistent since 2022, with satisfaction with Council services increasing.

RAAF Stores Park

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Highlights The most significant performance increases between 2022 and 2024, contributing to a positive performance trend are set out in the chart below.

Improvements in community perceptions from the indicators above is supported by the reduction in average pothole response times and an increase in the number of potholes repaired. Average pothole response times reached 3.95 days in 2024, compared to an average of 7.59 days in 2021. Furthermore, Council repaired significantly more potholes in 2024 than 2021 with 3,539 and 1,994 respectively. Moreover, 10,426 scheduled park maintenance works were completed in 2024, which supports improvement in community perception that natural recreational facilities are fit for purpose and meet the needs of the community now and into the future.

2022-2024 Comparison 60

How Council Contributed

55 53 +2% 52 +3% 51 +3%

51 50 General condition of public open spaces 49 Evidence of Council/government management 48 Quality of public spaces

New construction works

Community Development programs 46 +4% 45 +2%

45 Evidence of community activity Evidence of recent public investment

43 42

Providing clean public spaces and safe areas for enjoyment

40 Availability of open and green spaces 35 Years

2021

2022

2023

2024

Maintenance for Council’s extensive network of parks, sportsgrounds, playgrounds, bushland, habitat corridors and recreation areas

Out of the five most significant performance increases, four indicators relate to Strategic Goal 3 Delivering Sustainable Infrastructure and Services. Evidence of recent public investment had the highest individual increase of 4%, reaching 46% in 2024. The highest overall performance result is quality of public spaces at 53%.

Providing cleaning services for our public domains, including Town Centres

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CUMBERLAND CITY COUNCIL | STATE OF OUR CITY REPORT 2021-2024


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Sydney Cherry Blossom Festival

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CUMBERLAND CITY COUNCIL | STATE OF OUR CITY REPORT 2021-2024


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Challenges The most significant performance decrease between 2022 and 2024, contributing to a lower performance trend are set out below.

2022-2024 Comparison 80 75 70

Mix or diversity of people in the area

71 70

There are people like me

65

Local businesses that provide for daily needs

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67 -4% 66 -4% 61 -4%

60 55

Sense of neighbourhood safety

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50 49 -5% 45 40 35

Things to do in the evening

37 33 -4%

30 Years

2021

2022

2023

2024

In 2024, sense of neighbourhood safety decreased by 5% and things to do in the evening decreased by 4% resulting in the lowest outcome across Council. Safer Cities: Her Way Program

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COVID-19 Pandemic The COVID-19 global pandemic was a significant event continuing during this term. This event permanently altered community priorities and the way Council delivered some services and ultimately community progress towards its vision and goals. The pandemic posed unprecedented challenges to service delivery in Cumberland. Lockdowns, health restrictions and safety protocols required the temporary closure of some public facilities including libraries, community centres and recreational venues. Some administrative processes experienced delays and challenges due to the rapid shift to remote work. Despite these disruptions, Council adapted quickly and effectively; moving many services online and reallocating resources to support local health measures.

Emergency relief

Food and care packages

Financial assistance and material aid

Council remained open throughout the pandemic to provide essential services and support its local businesses and vulnerable community members. Essential services were modified where required to ensure community safety.

Homelessness services and crisis accommodation

To continue to assist the community in moving towards its vision for the future, Council provided a wide range of support and financial packages to accommodate for those in need during those unprecedented times. Specific support included:

Education and care to the children of essential workers living in and outside the Cumberland area

Welfare checks and one on one wellbeing calls

Specific support programs for vulnerable seniors

Increased service levels that focused on sanitising touch points around CBDs

Transition to online services where possible

Translation of NSW Health advice into community languages Delivery for COVID-19 Food Hampers

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Strategic Alignment Strategic

Strategic

Strategic

Strategic

Goal 1

Goal 2

Goal 3

Goal 4

Supporting Community Health, Safety and Wellbeing

Enhancing the Natural and Built Environment

Delivering Sustainable Infrastructure and Services

Providing Local Leadership

Quadruple Bottom line Social

Environmental

Environmental

Economic and Civic Leadership

Objective 1.1

Objective 2.1

Objective 3.1

Objective 4.1

A strong community and culture

Celebrate our diverse built and natural environments

We have public spaces that are welcoming, inclusive and promote pride in the area

Strategies

Strategies

The community is proud to be served by a sustainable and transparent Council organisation

2.1.1 Prepare land use plans and controls that value our heritage, encourage economic development, facilitate local infrastructure improvements and create vibrant precincts

3.1.1 Our physical infrastructure is sustainably planned and managed to meet our changing needs

Strategies 1.1.1 Build a rich local culture through access to cultural activities and events 1.1.2 Enhance our sense of community through valued community spaces and places 1.1.3 Build an inclusive community by encouraging participation in youth, children and indigenous services and support for seniors and disability services Objective 1.2

2.1.2 Protect and improve our natural environment and ensure development has a positive impact on our City Objective 2.2

A safe, healthy and active community

Places and spaces that are vibrant and connect us

Strategies

Strategies

1.2.1 Provide access to services that improve health and wellbeing

2.2.1 Activate and support our centres, local areas and local businesses to be vibrant places that connect people

1.2.2 Build capacity within our community to live happier and healthier lives

3.1.2 Our community pride is reflected in the cleanliness and upkeep of our valued public spaces and streetscapes Objective 3.2 We have recreational assets that enhance the liveability of our community Strategies 3.2.1 Our valued natural recreational spaces and facilities are fit for purpose and encourage active lifestyles 3.2.2 Our assets provide a range of opportunities for participation in active and entertaining activities Objective 3.3

Strategies 4.1.1 Provide a governance framework that is transparent and builds public trust in local leadership 4.1.2 Council operates in a safe and sustainable way to deliver great services and facilities that offer value for money 4.1.3 Council places the customer at the heart of everything it does Objective 4.2 An informed community included in decision making and long-term planning Strategies 4.2.1 Council regularly engages with and informs the community

A clean and safe place to live Strategies 3.3.1 Enforce local laws and regulations for the benefit of all people in Cumberland

4.2.2 Council conducts long-term planning based on community engagement

3.3.2 Monitor and regulate to make Cumberland a safe place to live 3.3.3 Provide access to sustainable waste services that keep our community clean and tidy

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Strategic Goal 1 Supporting Community Health, Safety and Wellbeing “By 2027 Cumberland will have a strong sense of community and connection. Residents will share an appreciation for the access to culture, events and activities that promote pride in our community. Cumberland will be known as a safe and healthy community that values inclusiveness and friendliness.”

Moon Festival

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What the Community Has Told Us The community has a high level of satisfaction with the following services:

Community surveys have been undertaken to understand community values, place experience, importance of and satisfaction with Council services.

Library Services

The community have told us Strategic Goal 1 Supporting Community Health, Safety and Wellbeing is the highest performing strategic goal between 2022 and 2024.

Childcare services and programs Festival and Events programs

When asked to provide what the most loved aspects of Cumberland are, community responses included:

Programs and support for newly arrived migrant communities Support and programs for volunteers and community groups Community education programs Children and Youth programs Aged Care and / or support for people with a disability Quality of community centres and facilities.

Sense of community

Diversity / Multiculturalism

Safe area / Family orientated area

Schools / Education Library Services is a key driver of overall satisfaction of Council.

The community have told us what is important to them, including:

Community safety programs

Community centres and facilities

Aged care and / or support for people with a disability

Paramedics to the Rescue Storytime

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Term In Review - Metrics Metrics

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Term In Review - Council’s Contribution CSP Strategy

Capacity building programs delivered increased from 329 in 2021 to 979 in 2024

1.2.2

Major art gallery events remained consistent with 3 in 2021 and 3 in 2024

1.1.1

Participants in gallery programs increased from 3,200 to 3,500

1.1.1

Cultural events delivered by Council increased from 3 in 2021 to 10 in 2024

1.1.1

Children and Families programs increased from 47 in 2021 to 78 in 2024

1.1.3

Youth Programs increased from 27 in 2021 to 69 in 2024

1.1.3

Approved places for Long Day Care (LDC) increased from 371 in 2021 to 389 in 2024. Approved places for Out of School Hours (OOSH) care decreased from 678 in 2021 to 493 in 2024

1.1.3

Registered Family Day Care educators decreased from 35 in 2021 to 20 in 2024

1.1.3

Number of hours of programs and services provided under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) and the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) increased from 22,410 in 2021 to 46,729 in 2024

1.1.3

Meals provided to seniors and people with disabilities under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) and the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), decreased from 44,007 meals in 2021 to 36,064 meals in 2024

1.1.3

Criminal activity decreased from 19,510 in 2021 to 16,659 in 2024 (Source: https://www.bocsar.nsw.gov.au)

1.2.2

Number of schools and educational institutions within Cumberland increased from 280 to 285

1.1.3

Volunteers, under Seniors and Disability, increased from 179 in 2021 to 204 in 2024. Additionally, volunteers involved in Environment Programs increased from 30 in 2021 to 210 in 2024

1.1.3

CSP Strategy

Service Activity

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Delivering an exciting program of Major Cultural Events and Gallery Exhibitions

1.1.1

Presenting vibrant Cultural and Art Studio programs

1.1.1

Implementation of the Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP)

1.2.2

Access to eight Libraries with extensive library programs, activities, collections and technology

1.1.2

Providing programs for the health and wellbeing of our children and youth

1.1.3

Implementation of the Children and Families Strategy and Cumberland City Youth Strategy

1.1.3

Delivery of extensive seniors and disability services, programs, events and information sessions

1.1.3

Implementation of the Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP)

1.1.3

Implementation of the Homelessness Action Plan

1.2.2

Opening of the Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) Hub

1.2.2

New Crime Prevention Podcast Building Confidence and Safety

1.2.2

Providing education and care centres to children aged 0 to 14 years

1.1.3

Access to one stop shop multipurpose community centres

1.1.2

Delivering capacity building programs

1.2.2

Delivery of the Community Grants Program

1.2.2

Providing the Volunteer Program

1.1.3

8 Libraries

12 Education and Care-based Services

21 Community Centres

1 Family Day Care Service

CUMBERLAND CITY COUNCIL | STATE OF OUR CITY REPORT 2021-2024


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Strategic Goal 2 Enhancing the Natural and Built Environment “By 2027 Cumberland will have a natural and built environment that improves quality of life, respects our heritage elements and protects our parks and gardens, supported by planning strategies and controls. Cumberland will be regarded as a community that actively promotes and implements good environmental practices, supported by environmental strategies and programs.”

Sydney Water Clean Up event

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CUMBERLAND CITY COUNCIL | STATE OF OUR CITY REPORT 2021-2024


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What the Community Has Told Us The community have told us what is important to them, including:

Community surveys have been undertaken to understand community values, place experience, importance of and satisfaction with Council services. The community have told us Strategic Goal 2 Enhancing the Natural and Built Environment has consistently performed well between 2022 and 2024. When asked to provide what the most loved aspects of Cumberland are, community responses included:

Environmental education / recycling

The natural environment

Protecting green open spaces and the natural environment

Support for local jobs and businesses

Protection of low-rise residential areas

The community has a high level of satisfaction with the following services:

Public Transport

Protection of heritage buildings and items Protecting green, open spaces and the natural environment Environmental education programs and encouraging recycling Public spaces planning and design.

Roads, cycleways and footpaths

Affordable area / Housing

Shopping Centres, Restaurants and Businesses

Heritage of the area

Protection of low-rise residential areas is a key driver of overall satisfaction of Council.

The largest increase in community value is associated with access to neighbourhood amenities (cafes, shops, health and wellness services etc.) with 9% more respondents choosing this as important to them in 2024 compared to 2022.

Green Open Spaces / Parks and Wildlife

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Term In Review - Metrics

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Term In Review - Council’s Contribution CSP Strategy

Metrics Landmarks and heritage sites increased from 309 in 2021 to 325 in 2024

2.1.1

Planting of new trees increased from 5,124 in 2021 to 8,205 in 2024

2.1.2

Businesses across key sectors increased from 3,419 to 3,826, with growth observed in following areas:

2.2.1

•

Retail trade increased from 1,654 to 1,730

2.2.1

•

Health Care and Social Assistance increased from 1,220 to 1,454

2.2.1

•

Financial and Insurance Services, increased from 545 to 642

2.2.1

Complying Development Certificates assessed and determined (Council specific and private certifiers) have decreased from 812 in 2021 to 732 in 2024 Recycling decreased with 10,280 tonnes collected in 2021 compared to 9,187 in 2024 and garden waste decreased with 9,259 tonnes collected in 2021 compared to 7,286 in 2024

CSP Strategy

Service Activity Delivery of environmental strategies and educational programs

2.1.1

2.1.2

2.1.2

•

Litter and Illegal Dumping Prevention Programs

2.1.2

•

Biodiversity Strategy

2.1.2

•

Urban Tree Strategy

2.1.2

•

Sustainability Action Plan

2.1.2

•

Asbestos Management Strategy and Programs

2.1.2

•

Waste and Resource Strategy and Programs

2.1.2

Problem Waste Collection Service

2.1.2

Tree Planting

2.1.2

Streetlights upgraded to LED

2.1.2

Smart Places Program

2.2.1

Place Development Program

2.2.1

Place Activation Program

2.2.1

Economic Development Program

2.2.1

Business Support Program

2.2.1

Heritage Program

2.1.1

Cumberland Centres and Corridors Program

2.1.1

Stormwater and Flood Management Program

2.1.1

Local Traffic and Transport Program

2.1.1

Strategic Infrastructure Design Program

2.1.1

Local Infrastructure Design Program

2.1.1

Open Space and Recreation Strategy Implementation Program

2.1.1

Local Spaces and Places Program

2.1.1

Mobile Community Recycling Service

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Strategic Goal 3 Delivering Sustainable Infrastructure and Services “By 2027 Cumberland will have sustainably managed infrastructure assets and waste services that contribute positively to quality of life and meet expectations of the community. Our infrastructure will meet our targets for a City that is easy to move around and is well connected to our wider region.”

Civic Park and Pendle Hill Wetland Improvement Project

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CUMBERLAND CITY COUNCIL | STATE OF OUR CITY REPORT 2021-2024


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What the Community Has Told Us The community has a high level of satisfaction with the following services: Swimming pools and swimming pool programs

Community surveys have been undertaken to understand community values, place experience, importance of and satisfaction with Council services.

Availability and maintenance of local ovals, grounds and facilities Maintenance of local parks and playgrounds

The community have told us Strategic Goal 3 Delivering Sustainable Infrastructure and Services has consistently performed well between 2022 and 2024.

Stormwater management

When asked to provide what the most loved aspects of Cumberland are, community responses included:

Maintenance and cleaning of town centres Streetscapes and public tree maintenance Provision of premium venues.

Sports and Recreational activities and facilities

Cleanliness of the area

Good waste services

Within Strategic Goal 3 Delivering Sustainable Infrastructure and Services, the community have identified Council’s core strengths with high importance and high satisfaction including:

Well serviced area

Household garbage collection Public Health and Safety standards Safe, secure and clean Council buildings, properties and facilities

The community have told us what is important to them, including:

Maintaining local roads, household garbage collection, maintenance of local parks and playgrounds and Council’ response to unauthorised and illegal works are key drivers of overall satisfaction of Council.

Maintaining local roads

Council’s street lighting

Traffic management and road safety

Removal of illegally dumped rubbish

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CUMBERLAND CITY COUNCIL | STATE OF OUR CITY REPORT 2021-2024


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Term In Review - Metrics

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Term In Review - Council’s Contribution CSP Strategy

Metrics Capital Expenditure investment increased from $57,190,620.12 in 2021 to $75,488,620.20 in 2024

3.1.1

Playgrounds increased from 287 in 2021 to 295 in 2024

3.2.1

Amount of public spaces (footpaths, verges, parks etc.) remained consistent with square footage data for footpaths (1.22 square kilometres), parks (10.43 square kilometres) and operational open space grass (0.62 square kilometres)

3.2.1

Parking spaces remain consistent with 2,102 in 2021 and 2024

3.3.1

Potholes repaired increased from 1,994 in 2021 to 3,539 in 2024

3.1.2

Average pothole response times decreased from 7.59 days in 2021 to 3.95 days in 2024

3.1.2

Footpath renewals expenditure increased from $1,705,410 in 2021 to $3,865,136 in 2024

3.1.1

Signage repairs decreased from 1,967 in 2021 to 1,521 in 2024

3.2.1

Council swept 95,965 kilometres of town centre streets in 2024

3.1.2

Number of trees pruned and / or actioned to be removed decreased from 2,788 in 2021 to 2,745 in 2024

3.1.2

CSP Strategy

Service Activity

Ridge & Alderney Street, Merrylands new roundabout

Provision of domestic waste, commercial waste and street and park waste services

3.3.3

Availability of open and green spaces

3.2.1

Maintenance for Council’s extensive network of parks, sportsgrounds, playgrounds, bushland, habitat corridors and recreation areas

3.2.1

Assessment of street lighting requests

3.1.1

New construction works

3.1.1

Providing premium venues, stadiums and facilities

3.2.2

Learn to Swim Program

3.2.2

Water Safety Program

3.2.2

Providing clean public spaces and safe areas for enjoyment

3.1.2

Providing cleaning services for our public domains, including Town Centres

3.1.2

Garden beds in town centres regularly maintained

3.1.2

Renovation of Greens at golf courses

3.2.1

Companion Animals Program

3.3.1

Investigating and regulating unauthorised and illegal works

3.3.1

Hosting an NSW Fire Safety Summit

3.3.1

Swimming Pool Barrier Program

3.3.1

Footpath in Nyrang Street, Lidcombe

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Projects Delivered

Merrylands Civic Square Project

Civic Park and Pendle Hill Wetland Improvement Project

The Merrylands Civic Square (MCS) Project was funded by the NSW Government through its NSW Public Spaces Legacy Program in association with Cumberland City Council. The initial concept for the MCS was drawn from the community’s feedback which included a public space for civic events and celebrations, a meeting place for the whole community, a flexible place for small groups and families as well as for large gatherings and events, a space that is safe, day and night, a place for locals that means ‘Cumberland’ and a unique landmark in the city centre with colour and shelter.

Civic Park, Pendle Hill is now open. New inclusive and accessible nature play spaces, play equipment and outdoor fitness zone, picnic areas, a half-court basketball court and all new amenities are just some of the new features of Civic Park. In addition to Civic Park, the project also included the Pendle Hill wetlands upgrade which includes construction of new pedestrian bridges, installation of gabion walls along the creek embankment, stormwater quality improvement devices such as gross pollutant traps and a water aeration pump, reconstruction of a weir wall and improved connections through the carpark to Pendle Hill Town Centre.

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Merrylands CBD Drainage Work

Parramatta Road Urban Amenity Improvement Project

The Merrylands CBD Drainage Project has consolidated the drainage infrastructure to enable the most cost-efficient method of controlling floodwaters in the Merrylands CBD. The project includes upgrades to the stormwater drainage systems at the following locations: • The extension of Dressler Court, between Neil Street and Holroyd Gardens • Along Merrylands Road, between Addlestone Road and Cambridge Road • Merrylands Civic Square • Main Lane, Merrylands.

The NSW Government provided a grant to Cumberland City Council to improve public spaces, improve pedestrian accessibility and enhance Cumberland as a place to live, shop and do business. The grant formed part of a wider program to revitalise public spaces along the Parramatta Road corridor.

This project enables development within the Merrylands CBD to be less encumbered by stormwater infrastructure. Without this important infrastructure upgrade the Merrylands Civic Square Project would not have happened. Works on the downstream side of the culvert have been completed including: • •

Drainage works along Neil Street Drainage works along Main Lane and on Treves Street.

In addition, the works on the upstream side of the culvert, which includes Merrylands Road, Cambridge Street and Burford Street have been completed. 28

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Jack & Jill Reserve, Regents Park Playground Upgrade

Phillips Park Upgrades

Council has completed the complete renewal of Jack and Jill Reserve, Berala. Works included new modern playground and equipment, a BBQ area and shelter, landscaping and park furniture.

Council completed upgrades to Phillips Park Playground, improving both play equipment and loop paths. These upgrades included installation of new play equipment, shade structures, trees and water access to mitigate heat. Additionally, a dedicated loop for children on smaller bicycles and scooters was added, along with a walking loop and new facilities for social spaces. The park upgrade was funded by Council and the Commonwealth (Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts).

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Ruth Street Park Upgrade

Granville Park Field Works

Council upgraded Ruth Street Park in Merrylands West. These upgrades involved installation of play space facilities, picnic area, drinking water fountain and furniture, pedestrian footpath, fencing upgrade and landscape planting to deliver an enhanced experience for park users in the Cumberland City Community. The park upgrade was partially funded by the NSW Government in association with Cumberland City Council.

The condition of playing fields 3, 4 and 5 at Granville Park were not fit-for-purpose to sustain heavy use all year-round for formal sporting events and recreational use. The field surface was substandard, requiring an upgrade to the irrigation system to meet sport playing standards. The high demand for the fields also required provision of floodlighting so that the fields could be made available for longer hours. This project was jointly funded by Council and the NSW Government through its Greater City Sports Facility Fund.

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Strategic Goal 4 Providing Local Leadership “By 2027 Cumberland will be a community that has confidence in the integrity of local leadership and be involved in decision making. The community will be served by a Council that is progressive, innovative and makes knowledge-driven decisions in the best interest of the community. Council will be a sustainable and efficiently run organisation that goes beyond service delivery and actively advocates on behalf of the community it serves.”

Defibrillator in Merrylands Civic Square

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What the Community Has Told Us The community has a high level of satisfaction with the following services: Council’s Customer Service

Community surveys have been undertaken to understand community values, place experience, importance of and satisfaction with Council services.

Provision of information to the community Accessibility to Council and its services

The community have told us Strategic Goal 4 Providing Local Leadership metrics have significantly increased between 2022 and 2024.

Outdoor Dining.

When asked to provide what the most loved aspects of Cumberland are, community responses included:

Council as a whole

Accessibility / Central Location

Quality and variety of services and facilities

Importance and satisfaction has significantly increased from 2022 for Council’s Customer Service. Satisfaction has significantly increased from 2023 for the provision of Council information to the community.

Council’s Customer Service, provision of Council information to the community, long term planning for the Cumberland area and financial management are key drivers of overall satisfaction of Council.

Good place to live

The community have told us what is important to them, including:

Delivering improved community outcomes

Delivering efficient and better quality services

Collaboration and communication between Council and the community

Craft activity for children at Berala Sprint Fair

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Term In Review - Metrics Metrics

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Term In Review - Council’s Contribution CSP Strategy

CSP Strategy

Service Activity Delivering efficient customer service through various channels catering for our diversity

4.1.3

Responding to webchats and customer requests

4.1.3

Resolution of complaints

4.1.3

Efficient management of Council records

4.1.3

Sound financial management

4.1.2

Effective communications, marketing and media

4.2.1

Measuring community wellbeing and satisfaction with Council services

4.2.2

Undertaking transparent long-term planning for the future of Cumberland

4.2.2

Embedding long-term community planning through community engagement

4.2.2

4.1.2

Delivering high quality civic events contributing to the civic leadership of our community

4.1.1

Unrestricted cash has increased from $21,795,000 in 2021 to $35,664,000 in 2024

4.1.2

4.1.1

Rates and annual charges outstanding have increased from 5.62% in 2021 to 6.37% in 2024

Completion of Government Information Public Access (GIPA) applications helping ensure open, transparent and accountable local leadership

4.1.2

Robust risk management and business continuity planning for Council operations

4.1.1

Recurring result excluding capital has increased from $5,161,000 in 2021 to $7,555,000 in 2024

4.1.2

Compliments received has increased from 272 in 2021 to 1,020 in 2024

4.1.3

Tier 1 complaints have increased from 419 in 2021 to 781 in 2024

4.1.3

Facebook followers have increased from 27,019 in 2021 to 30,585 in 2024

4.2.1

Instagram followers have increased from 3,044 in 2021 to 5,355 in 2024

4.2.1

LinkedIn followers have increased from 3,893 in 2021 to 6,518 in 2024

4.2.1

Digital mail (eNews) subscribers have increased from 4,868 in 2021 to 5,530 in 2024

4.2.1

Website page views have increased from 2,511,919 in 2021 to 2,859,050 in 2024

4.2.1

Capital expenditure has increased from $40,278,000 in 2021 to $75,343,000 in 2024

Customer Service helping a community member

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How we are Changing As part of the Wellbeing Survey, Council asked the community to select the attributes that are most important to them in their ideal neighbourhood. A higher percentage reflects greater alignment of community values. The following table is the shared values for the Cumberland community.

Rank

CSP Objective

Community Values

2024

2022

1

General condition of public open spaces (street trees, footpaths, parks etc.)

3.2

72%

68%

2

Elements of natural environment (natural features, views, vegetation, topography, water, wildlife etc.)

2.1

60%

59%

=3

Sense of neighbourhood safety (from crime, traffic, pollution etc.)

3.3

55%

51%

=3

Access to neighbourhood amenities (cafes, shops, health and wellness services etc.)

2.2

55%

46%

5

Sense of personal safety (for all ages, genders, day or night)

1.2

54%

52%

6

Walking/jogging/bike paths that connect housing to communal amenities (shops, parks etc.)

2.2

52%

49%

7

Local businesses that provide for daily needs (grocery stores, pharmacies, banks etc.)

2.2

49%

44%

8

Landscaping and natural elements (street trees, planting, water features etc.)

2.1

45%

43%

=9

Quality of public spaces (footpaths, verges, parks etc.)

3.2

44%

49%

=9

Access and safety of walking, cycling and/or public transport (signage, paths, lighting etc.)

3.3

44%

42%

=9

Sense of belonging in the community

1.1

44%

41%

12

Evidence of Council/government management (signage, street cleaners etc.)

3.3

38%

39%

13

Connectivity (proximity to other neighbourhoods, employment centres, shops etc.)

2.2

37%

33%

14

Spaces suitable for specific activities or special interests (entertainment, exercise, dog parks, BBQs etc.)

3.2

36%

40%

=15

Sustainable urban design (water sensitive design, transport-oriented design, sustainable building design, density etc.)

2.1

35%

37%

=15

Protection of the natural environment

2.1

35%

35%

=15

Evidence of recent public investment (roads, parks, schools etc.)

3.1

35%

39%

• • •

The number one shared value is general condition of public open space (street trees, footpaths, parks etc.), selected by 72% of respondents. Strategic Goal 2 Enhancing the Natural and Built Environment and Strategic Goal 3 Delivering Sustainable Infrastructure and Services demonstrate a high level of importance. Two safety metrics are in the top five, with more of the community selecting them as important in 2024 compared to 2022.

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Community Values Significantly increased and decreased community value metrics between 2022 and 2024 are set out below.

Community Values 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40%

Access to neighbourhood amenities (cafes, shops, health and wellness services etc.)

+9% 2024

2022

Sense of neighbourhood safety (from crime, traffic, pollution etc.)

Local businesses that provide for daily needs (grocery stores, pharmacies, banks etc.

+5%

+4% Physical comfort (including noise, smells, temperature etc.)

General condition of housing and other private buildings

+5%

+5%

-5%

30%

Quality of public space (footpaths, verges, parks etc.)

20%

-5% 10%

Welcoming to all people

0%

•

•

-5% Sustainable behaviours in the community

-7% -5% Local education options (from elementary to adult education)

Spaces suitable for play (from toddlers to teens)

The largest increase in community value is associated with access to neighbourhood amenities (cafes, shops, health and wellness services etc.) with 9% more respondents choosing this as important to them in 2024 compared to 2022. The decrease in community values is associated with spaces suitable for play (from toddlers to teens) with 7% less respondents choosing this as important to them. 35

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Effectiveness of the Community Strategic Plan 2017-2027 Priorities

Council’s assessment of its current state, through identifying the effectiveness of the CSP 2017-2027, serves to ensure the next iteration of the CSP is better equipped to meet community needs and improve overall liveability. Through identifying both strengths and priorities, Council can effectively address areas that require improvement, while continuing to nurture its strengths.

Priorities are attributes that are highly valued but not performing well. The Wellbeing Survey has identified nine areas for Council to prioritise. These are attributes that are most important to the community but are currently underperforming.

Strengths

• • • •

Strengths are attributes and areas in which the community thinks Council has performed well and are highly valued by the Cumberland community. The independent surveys identified key strengths that contribute significantly to local liveability and should be nurtured over the next term. The overall satisfaction with Council demonstrates that the community generally supports Council’s performance and actions.

• • • • •

Key drivers of this satisfaction are attributed to: • • •

Accessibility to Council and its services Provision of Council information Council’s customer service/community engagement.

Sense of belonging in the community Sense of personal safety (for all ages, genders, day or night) Sense of neighbourhood safety (from crime, traffic, pollution etc.) Elements of natural environment (natural features, views, vegetation, topography, water, wildlife etc.) Landscaping and natural elements (street trees, planting, water features etc.) Walking/jogging/bike paths that connect housing to communal amenities (shops, parks etc.) General condition of public open spaces (street trees, footpaths, parks etc.) Quality of public spaces (footpaths, verges, parks etc.) Access and safety of walking, cycling and/or public transport (signage, paths, lighting etc.)

High levels of satisfaction in financial management and opportunities to participate in local decision-making indicates a well-informed community aware of Council and NSW State Government services that are available. These strengths also highlight Council’s long-term plans, reflect sustainable resource allocation and are aligned with the community’s aspirational goals.

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How did the Community Strategic Plan 2017-2027 Perform? Assessing the effectiveness of the current CSP through the strengths and priorities has indicated some movement away from the vision and goals.

Strategic Goal 2 Enhancing the Natural and Built Environment

Liveability in Cumberland has remained stable since 2022. However, the recent survey results reveal a growing gap between community values and place performance. In 2024, no metrics associated with three Strategic Goals are seen to be contributing positively to liveability (highly valued and performing well) from the perspective of the community. As such, there are significant opportunities for Council to provide a comprehensive and consolidated approach to improving the lived experience of communities in Cumberland.

Of the attributes associated with this strategic goal eight are in the top 15 most valued place attributes as selected by the community. Two attributes have seen the most significant increase in community value (9% and 5% respectively): • •

Connectivity (proximity to other neighbourhoods, employment centres, shops etc.) is the best performing attribute.

Strategic Goal 1 Supporting Community Health, Safety and Wellbeing

There are five metrics that are highly valued by the community but are underperforming: • • • • •

Of the attributes associated with this Strategic Goal, only two are in the top 15 shared values: • •

Access to neighbourhood amenities Local businesses that provide for daily needs.

Elements of natural environment Landscaping and natural elements Walking/jogging/bike paths that connect housing to communal amenities Access to neighbourhood amenities Local businesses that provide for daily needs.

Welcoming to all people is the best performing liveability attribute Landmarks, special features or meeting places is the lowest performing liveability attribute.

There are two metrics that are highly valued by the community but are underperforming: • •

Sense of personal safety Sense of belonging in the community.

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Strategic Goal 3 Delivering Sustainable Infrastructure and Services

Summary The highest number of community priorities overall are aligned with Strategic Goal 3 Delivering Sustainable Infrastructure and Services while a decrease in community perceptions of performance is associated with Strategic Goal 2 Enhancing the Natural and Built Environment.

Of the attributes associated with this strategic goal, seven are in the top 15 most valued place attributes as selected by the community, including two in the top three. In addition, four of the 15 attributes have seen an increase in the number of people who selected them as important: • • • •

Sense of neighbourhood safety Physical comfort Amount of public spaces (footpaths, verges, parks etc.) is the best performing liveability attribute Evidence of recent public investment (roads, parks, schools etc.) is the lowest performing liveability attribute.

Community priorities relate to increased quality and maintenance, integration and protection of nature and vegetation, and improving the perception of neighbourhood and personal safety. The priority level for investment remains the same for Strategic Goal 3 Delivering Sustainable Infrastructure and Services in 2024 as in 2022, with the focus on neighbourhood safety, accessibility, quality and maintenance of public spaces as the top liveability priorities.

There are four metrics in this Strategic Goal that are highly valued by the community but are underperforming: • • • •

NEXT STEPS

The development of the Community Strategic Plan 2025-2035 provides Council with an opportunity to focus on what is important to meet the vision and values of Cumberland’s diverse community. In addition, it allows Council an opportunity to translate the community vision and values into CSP objectives and strategies with outcomes and indicators. In its current form there are challenges with linking Services reported in the Operational Plan to CSP outcomes and the correlation between Service indicators and CSP indicators. This will be a key area of focus for the upcoming review of the CSP and other documents within the IP&R suite.

General condition of public open spaces (street trees, footpaths, parks etc.) Sense of neighbourhood safety (from crime, traffic, pollution etc.) Quality of public spaces (footpaths, verges, parks etc.) Access and safety of walking, cycling and/or public transport (signage, paths, lighting etc.).

Strategic Goal 4 Providing Local Leadership Community satisfaction with Strategic Goal 4 Providing Local Leadership has increased since 2022 with two key themes emerging: • •

Ensuring Council staff and elected members focus on delivering improved community outcomes. Working towards improved collaboration and communication between the Council and the community.

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Financial Highlights Profit and Loss Highlight Council outperformed most financial metrics as set in the 2022-2023 Long Term Financial Plan (LTFP), including the operating performance ratio, unrestricted current ratio and asset renewal ratio. The one indicator Council did not meet was rates and charges outstanding percentage, which measured 6.37% against the 4% target set in the LTFP.

$124.9m

Council was able to deliver additional operating surpluses totalling $18m and additional capital expenditure of $25m, when compared to the amounts set in the 2022-2023 LTFP.

$487.9m Total Operating Income

Net operating result excluding capital and one-off items

$453.7m

Total expenses from continuing operations

$90.7m

Total Capital Income

$34.2m

Net operating result before capital income

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CUMBERLAND CITY COUNCIL | STATE OF OUR CITY REPORT 2021-2024


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Sourcing our Revenue

NEXT STEPS

$10

Rates at Work

$44.4m

Grants and Contributions

$64.2m

User Charges and Fees

$90.7m

Grants and Contributions - Capital

$28.3m

Other Income

$19.9m

Interest and Investment Income

$14.2m

Other Revenue

WASTE $3.19

$2.34

CITY MAINTENANCE

$5

$316.8m

OPEN SPACES

Rates and Annual Charges

$0.72

Capital Works Programs Highlights • • •

$0.46

$144.5 million spent on total capital expenditure $97.5 million spent on renewal of assets $47.0 million spent on new assets

LIBRARIES

BUILDING MAINTENANCE

$0.54

ENGINEERING AND BUILDING

$0.44

DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT

$0.34

SWIMMING POOLS

$0.26

CUSTOMER SERVICE

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH

$0

40

$1.31

$0.27

OTHER $0.13

CUMBERLAND CITY COUNCIL | STATE OF OUR CITY REPORT 2021-2024


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Next Steps

Grand Opening of Merrylands Civic Centre

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INTRODUCTION

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Next Steps Strategic Goal 1 Supporting Community Health, Safety and Wellbeing

This report demonstrates the progress the Cumberland Community has made towards their high-level vision and goals for the future. To keep us on track, Council will commence a review of the Community Strategic Plan (CSP) 2017-2027. This review will: • • •

Check if our vision for the future has changed Set new objectives to work towards to achieve the vision Set new indicators to help us know if we’ve arrived at our goals.

The Wellbeing survey highlighted the community want for more community events and activities such as street fairs, festivals, and community gardens to bring people together. In addition, the community want to see the local neighbourhoods made safer for women.

Following the Local Government elections in September 2024 and the election of a new body of Councillors, Council will respond to the new CSP with a new four-year Delivery Program, setting out the priority areas of focus for the new political term. This will be paired with a new Resourcing Strategy to show how Council plans to resource the commitments in the planning documents.

Action: Review opportunities towards building local community and cultural networks, education and social groups that encourage connection and trust in addition to increasing safety.

CSP Review

Strategic Goal 2 Enhancing the Natural and Built Environment

Cumberland’s CSP outlines the future direction and priorities for the area over a 10-year period. The upcoming review offers an opportunity for the incoming Council to review and assess the CSP’s objectives and strategies. This section offers evidencebased recommendations to guide the CSP review process, prioritising areas for community investment and aligning with community needs and values.

The Wellbeing survey highlighted the community want for increased tree coverage. Concerns arise over the impact of higher density developments on issues such as parking, and lack of infrastructure and amenities to support these developments. Action: Review how to provide an increased focus on the retention and increased integration of natural environment and tree planting, as well as neighbourhood active transport networks that connect housing to local shops, services and other shared amenities.

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Strategic Goal 3 Delivering Sustainable Infrastructure and Services The Wellbeing Survey emphasised the community need for enhanced safety measures, including increased surveillance and police presence, especially at night. Additionally, the community want to see footpath upgrades, better verge management, and clean ups of unattended street rubbish. Action: Review enhancing the quality and maintenance of public spaces, improve neighbourhood safety in regard to external factors such as traffic and crime, and investigate opportunities to improve local networks for active and public transport.

Strategic Goal 4 Providing Local Leadership The Wellbeing Survey highlighted three key themes: • • •

Ensuring Council staff and elected members focus on delivering improved community outcomes Council to focus on delivering efficient and better quality, services and infrastructure Working towards improved collaboration and communication between the Council and the community.

Playground upgrade as part of Civic Park and Pendle Hill Wetland Improvement Project

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CUMBERLAND CITY COUNCIL | STATE OF OUR CITY REPORT 2021-2024


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PERFORMANCE AND PROGRESS

State of our City Report 2021-2024 Cumberland City Council 16 Memorial Avenue, PO Box 42, Merrylands NSW 2160 T 8757 9000 W www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au E council@cumberland.nsw.gov.au

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