MID-TERM REPORT CARD The NSW Government’s performance in Western Sydney
March 2021 MID-TERM REPORT CARD The NSW Government’s performance in Western Sydney 23 March 2021
AKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY ABOUT THE CENTRE ABOUT THE AUTHOR With respect for Aboriginal cultural The Centre for Western Sydney is a Dr Andy Marks is the Director of the protocol and out of recognition that Western Sydney University research and Centre for Western Sydney, and Assistant its campuses occupy their traditional advocacy forum for the development and Vice-Chancellor at Western Sydney lands, Western Sydney University promotion of informed, innovative and University. He has a PhD and first-class acknowledges the Darug, Eora, collaborative regional solutions, created honours in political science and literature, Dharawal (also referred to as Tharawal) with, and for, Western Sydney. and writes regular columns for the Sydney and Wiradjuri peoples and thanks Morning Herald and the Daily Telegraph. them for their support of its work westernsydney.edu.au/cws.html He is also Chair of the Western Sydney in their lands (Greater Western Sydney Community Forum. and beyond). ABOUT THIS REPORT This Centre for Western Sydney report twitter.com/drandymarks?lang=en THANK YOU was developed in consultation with, and linkedin.com/in/andy-marks- Thank you to all the Western Sydney for, our community, industry, government 3aa65732/ advocates whose highly considered and research partners, in the interests responses made this report possible. of supporting good government for our SUGGESTED CITATION Particular gratitude to Helen Barcham region and increased opportunity for its Marks, A., 2021, Mid-Term Report Card: and Lisa Lewis for their support, and residents. The NSW Government’s Performance to the formidable 2168 Children’s in Western Sydney, Centre for Western Parliament for their wisdom and bravery. Sydney, Parramatta.
MEDIA [email protected] CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 4 THE GOVERNMENT’S PERFORMANCE 12 THE OPPOSITION’S PERFORMANCE 18 1. EDUCATION AND PARTICIPATION 22 FOREWORD 8 Innovative, tactical and agile 15 A viable alternative? 19 2. HEALTH AND WELLBEING 26 Rebalancing 8 Confidence rattled 15 Addressing need 19 3. HOUSING AND COMMUNITY 30 Convergence 8 A fork in the road 15 Loss of faith 19 4. PLACE AND CONNECTEDNESS 34 Accountability 8 Champions of ‘small’ go large 16 The Opposition’s overall rating 20 5. SOCIETY AND CULTURE 38 A missed opportunity 16 6. SUSTAINABILITY AND ECONOMY 42 INTRODUCTION 10 The Government’s overall rating 16 WESTERN SYDNEY’S PRIORITIES 21 How good is Western Sydney? 11 Interdependencies 21 CONCLUSION 46 The performance matrix 21 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
4 Mid-Term Report Card “On social housing, nearly all respondents highlighted the gulf between Victoria’s and NSW’s stimulus investments.”
This Centre for Western Sydney paper, As a whole, the respondents represent “Respondents rated the Government’s the ‘Mid-Term Report Card’, assesses Western Sydney communities, businesses, the NSW Government’s performance and other entities of substantial economic public health performance exceptionally in Western Sydney over the first half scale, and pronounced social and cultural of the current parliamentary term. depth and diversity. De-identification was highly, noting the importance of sustained The Centre asked its partners to a condition of participation sought by all highlight areas where they believed the respondents, with the majority noting they investments in health infrastructure.” Government had performed well over have funding, program, and advocacy this period, along with examples of poor dependencies with the NSW Government. performance, with the option of offering a ranking. Respondents rated, and commented on, Much more commitment was needed, The report is intended to raise awareness the Government’s performance across respondents observed, in planning for, of, and contributions to, policy, planning In addition to the Centre’s own analysis, the Centre’s six priorities for the West. and keeping pace with schools and political processes among Western this report draws on survey responses by An aggregate ranking has then drawn infrastructure demand, as well as Sydney residents. It is also a contribution de-identified ‘respondents’ including: from the ratings, overall, and against each ensuring equity in student resourcing to performance improvement for the priority. Assessments are supported by and digital access. On social housing, Government and the Opposition seeking Respondent(s) # respondent comments where relevant. nearly all respondents highlighted the gulf to optimise their engagement with, between Victoria’s and NSW’s stimulus and service of, the West. Community, policy, cultural and 6 Respondents rated the Government’s investments, describing it as a ‘missed business peaks public health performance exceptionally opportunity’ to address a generational After a decade of incumbency, and at the Local Government Areas 4 highly, noting the importance of sustained challenge for the region. Alternatively, critical halfway mark of its current term, investments in health infrastructure. the Powerhouse Parramatta investment the NSW Government rates a B- overall for NSW Government 1 Qualified support was clear for a range was widely supported but augmented by its performance across Western Sydney. NSW Opposition 1 of transport investments; however, a call for greater backing of regional and With exceptionally strong community level respondents still emphasised the need community arts and culture programs. engagement, but missing a sufficiently Centre for Western Sydney 6 for more focus on ‘connecting the West cohesive focus, the NSW Opposition rates ‘priority’ area researchers with the West’ ahead of current major Lastly, the NSW Government’s clean a C+ in the West. project orientations. energy incentives were seen as a potentially transformative industry attraction and technology opportunity for the West, whilst noting much more needs to be done to address the region’s climate and urban heat issues.
The NSW Government’s performance in Western Sydney 5 6 Mid-Term Report Card NSW GOVERNMENT MID-TERM REPORT CARD FOR WESTERN SYDNEY
WESTERN SYDNEY’S PARTICIPATION EDUCATION AND WELLBEING HEALTH AND COMMUNITY AND HOUSING CONNECTEDNESS PLACE AND CULTURE AND SOCIETY AND ECONOMY SUSTAINABILITY PRIORITIES
RATING C A C- B+ B B-
Investment is An exceptional A missed Relatively The Powerhouse A transformative steady but not pandemic ‘stimulus’ strong transport Parramatta investment in keeping pace response opportunity for investments but commitment clean energy with growth backed by a step-change in missing critical must be industry COMMENT or addressing sustained social housing, links and project followed attraction, but inequity. infrastructure homelessness certainty. by more lacking urgency investment and community and investment and precinct affordability. arts and culture in addressing development. support. urban heat.
OVERALL B-
FOREWORD
REBALANCING As cities internationally seek to recover “CBDs are unlikely to completely return from COVID-19, the best of them will be seeking to not just restore their central to pre-pandemic levels of office occupancy business districts but to ensure that what growth does occur will be more spatially and thus productivity.” and socially inclusive.
CBDs are unlikely to completely return to initiative, supported by the current Prime The boroughs did three things under the Traditional appraisal risks drove the re- pre-pandemic levels of office occupancy Minister when he was Mayor of London, convergence agenda: write of the UK Treasury’s process guide, and thus productivity. Accordingly, many called the ‘convergence’ agenda. called the ‘Green Book’, to prioritise see emerging opportunities for suburban, 1) identified the key interventions to ‘levelling-up’ projects. Under prior exurban and regional economies, already CONVERGENCE maximise preferred outcomes; Green Book guidelines, projects which being reflected in changed residential Convergence was initiated in 2008–9 by 2) secured partners across London and might be vital for local, suburban or demand. There are new opportunities for five East London boroughs seeking to national government departments, regional economic recovery – or indeed Western Sydney in such trends. ensure long term, strategic benefits for aligning policies and investments; and improvements in wellbeing and public their communities from the 2012 Olympics. 3) set in train a regular process of health – typically failed at appraisal while The Centre for Western Sydney’s ‘Mid- They were determined that all the new monitoring and evaluation. Central London won on any Business Case Term Report Card’ comes at a time when investment pouring into the East for the Ratio (BCR) competition for resources the international discussion about post- Games, and existing public investment, be An independent initiative like the Centre because of its conventional return on pandemic recovery strategies is focussed spent as part of a coordinated strategy to for Western Sydney’s ‘Mid-Term Report public investment. on ensuring that any new economic realise ‘game changing’ benefits for local Card’ can ensure that convergence is momentum actually reshapes and indeed communities. prioritised in infrastructure appraisal and ACCOUNTABILITY rebalances our cities. procurement processes. Conventional In convergence, the task is one of continual Performance improvement objectives appraisal processes can often lead to improvement and refinement. That means In the UK this objective has become known included reducing gaps, between East other priorities being preferred, even when it is vital that the performance insights in as ‘levelling-up’. Its aim, of reducing the London and the Greater London average the relevant government agencies have initiatives like the ‘Mid-Term Report Card’ gap in growth and opportunities between in education, skills, health and longevity; previously said they support convergence. are fed back into systems design and privileged and disadvantaged regions an echo of Sydney’s ‘gaps’ between Potts review. Such information is meant to guide of the country, derives from an earlier Point and Blacktown. performance and improvement, and also promote accountability.
8 Mid-Term Report Card This brings me to the final benefit of a Report Card in the context of a ‘levelling up’ analysis: accountability, not just within government but to communities and specifically the communities most directly affected.
‘Convergence’ is a moral imperative but also, through its focus on data and performance, it enables communities to hold governments to account for achieving the change they say they seek. “An independent initiative like the Centre Dr Tim Williams for Western Sydney’s ‘Mid-Term Report Strategic Advisor to Arup, Chair of Open Cities, and Adjunct Professor, Western Card’ can ensure that ‘convergence’ is Sydney University. prioritised in infrastructure appraisal and procurement processes.”
The NSW Government’s performance in Western Sydney 9 INTRODUCTION
10 Mid-Term Report Card HOW GOOD IS WESTERN SYDNEY?
We’ve never had so much government in Western Sydney. A City Deal, an Aerotropolis, a Central River City, a Western Parkland City, commissions, authorities and statutory bodies, along with major infrastructure projects and record “We’ve never development, plus a dedicated ministerial and opposition portfolio! Some might ask, ‘How good is it?’ This is the question the Centre for Western Sydney put to its many community, industry and government partners in February 2021. had so much The resulting, inaugural, ‘Mid-Term Report Card’ rates the State Government’s performance in the West. It does so at the halfway mark (23 March 2021) of the state electoral cycle, marking a decade of Liberal-National incumbency in NSW. The results are mixed. The tone? Candid and constructive. The government intent? Better planning, policy and outcomes for Western Sydney. in Western Sydney.”
The NSW Government’s performance in Western Sydney 11 12 Mid-Term Report Card The NSW Government’s performance in Western Sydney 13 THE GOVERNMENT’S PERFORMANCE
14 Mid-Term Report Card INNOVATIVE, TACTICAL AND AGILE CONFIDENCE RATTLED Against the backdrop of the pandemic, Alternatively, confidence in policy and “The self-professed the Government’s investments in public process has been rattled. Transparency health, understandably, rated very highly. and accountability concerns pepper report The value of these targeted and sustained card responses. This easy-to-get but ‘small’ government improvements to health system capacity hard-to-shake perception of self-serving were proven, and undoubtedly noticed, politics has been compounded by ‘pork across Western Sydney as the highly barrelling’ commentary espoused at the specialists were coordinated pandemic interventions were highest levels of Liberal and National party deployed. leadership. Voters residing in the nation’s most intensely electorally contested Innovative, tactical and agile initiatives region have, in their report card verdicts, compelled to go from the Government in planning and taken deep offence at that commentary. public space were also rated favourably, It is viewed as a corrosive politicisation of especially when forged through open and important community programs, and has large.” genuinely inclusive co-design with the been rated accordingly. West’s residents. “Voters residing in the nation’s most “Against the backdrop of the pandemic, intensely electorally contested region A FORK IN THE ROAD In a rapidly growing, culturally diverse the Government’s investments in have… taken deep offence at [pork The mid-point of a third-term of and socioeconomically dynamic region public health, understandably, rated barrelling] commentary.” incumbency is a pivotal juncture. like Western Sydney, the Government’s very highly.” Maintaining momentum, dispelling fatigue trajectory over the next two years will Additionally, despite the Government’s and fostering innovation is hard to do, rightfully attract very close scrutiny. Narrow, but exceptionally important comparatively solid infrastructure but critical. The performance of a deeply This region has distinct expectations relief for many parents and children was development record, many Western experienced administration, like Premier of government, and it marks harshly also exceedingly welcome but tempered Sydney residents struggle to see how Gladys Berejiklian’s team, should set the when it perceives neglect. The typically with considerable frustration that these this program of works is making their Government up for a strong finish to this pronounced rates of voter swing in the measures were not taken further as at- lives better; perhaps pointing to flaws in term. With a decade of depth to draw West – nearly double (-4 per cent) the scale stimulus initiatives. the Government’s supporting narrative. on, there are no excuses for faltering in statewide (-2.3 per cent) swing against the Similarly, uncertainty on once firm meeting the Premier’s own commitments Coalition in 2019 – are evidence of that. commitments to particular Western to the people of Western Sydney. Equally, the region’s voters historically Sydney projects continues as a source of reward stability, vision and above all, disappointment, articulated in nearly all “This region has distinct expectations integrity; over the past few decades report card responses. of government, and it marks harshly backing in long terms of incumbency when it perceives neglect.” for both Labor and Liberal-National governments.
The NSW Government’s performance in Western Sydney 15
CHAMPIONS OF ‘SMALL’ GO LARGE A MISSED OPPORTUNITY Events over the past year have placed Australia’s last recession, in the early 90s, “Major exclusions, extraordinary pressure on governments, primarily hit male blue-collar workers. This globally. The NSW Government is no one unequivocally impacted women. That shortfalls and exception. Comparatively, it has performed cohort of essential workers, professionals, well. Ironically it has done so via an agile carers and community members, critical abrupt cessations departure from its ideological footing. The to generational wellbeing and prosperity, profound economic, social and related especially in Western Sydney, fared the in Commonwealth fall-out of the pandemic has demanded worst. They overwhelmingly bore the a ‘big’ political response. Stimulus and brunt of the labour market, housing, health assistance to women intervention were urgently needed. This and economic disruption. Many of them is an uncharacteristic approach for a continue to do so, particularly across heightened the fiscally conservative, centre-right political particular areas of south-western Sydney, grouping like the NSW Liberal-National where wage levels have – for some time expectation on the coalition, that traditionally advocate a light – not kept pace with housing and related touch from government. cost-of-living expenses. NSW Government to The self-professed ‘small’ government Major exclusions, shortfalls and abrupt step into the breach.” specialists were compelled to ‘go large’. cessations in Commonwealth assistance To an extent, and against type, they to women heightened the expectations did. However, the full effectiveness of the NSW Government would step into the economic stimulus in Western Sydney breach. Again, while bespoke programs GOVERNMENT’S OVERALL RATING remains to be seen. The Government’s to support women – for example, return- The NSW Government rates comparatively relatively quick economic response rated to-work schemes – were rolled out, they well overall in Western Sydney, with its well in the region. But the targeting were not viewed as being of sufficient efforts to support health and wellbeing and rationale behind key elements of scale. Other initiatives came through, a standout. Its capacity to explain its that response are naturally points of like the extension of the free preschool good work, however, remains an issue for considerable contention in the West. scheme. Still, the overall extent and nature voters in the West, as do critical signs of Everybody has their own idea of how it of government initiatives, even in stimulus, fatigue evident in lapses in accountability, should have been directed. But the gritty do not appear to fully grasp, nor capitalise transparency and commitment. Assessing reality of the impact in the West must be on, the very substantial economic gains performance across the six priority areas, the ultimate guide. of enabling greater female participation the NSW Government rates a B- at the in the workforce. That is viewed by report mid-term point in Western Sydney. card respondents as perhaps the biggest missed opportunity.
16 Mid-Term Report Card
THE COALITION’S OVERALL RATING IN WESTERN SYDNEY: B- THE OPPOSITION’S PERFORMANCE
18 Mid-Term Report Card A VIABLE ALTERNATIVE? ADDRESSING NEED LOSS OF FAITH THE OPPOSITION’S OVERALL RATING Good government depends, very If they still stand, then NSW Labor’s pre- Other aspects of NSW Labor’s record are Critiques of Labor were tempered with significantly, on a robust, razor-sharp but election (2019) commitments to accelerate troubling for Western Sydney. The party’s exceedingly positive reports of the constructive opposition; one that holds the the Sydney Metro West, boost nurse-to- strident and sustained rejection of the commitment, dedication and ability of incumbents to account, while promoting patient ratios, and lock-in (15-20 per cent) relocation of the Powerhouse Museum to particular representatives. The capacity of a considered, progressive and viable affordable housing mandates will address Parramatta was repeatedly cited, in report individual members to rally and champion alternative. Report card respondents significant areas of need for Western card responses, as a disappointment. The the interests of constituents at the broadly rated NSW Labor’s performance in Sydney. Similarly, appropriately resourcing rationale for Labor’s stance is not seen as electorate level was commonly described this regard, over the past two years in the the Independent Commission Against being sufficiently explained, resulting in it as exceptional, with certain representatives West, as moderate. Corruption would help address growing being viewed by some as emblematic of viewed as standouts; some of them, highly accountability, transparency and integrity a loss of faith in, and connection with the experienced, but underutilised. concerns. West, in favour of inner-Sydney interests. “Good government “The capacity of individual members “Appropriately resourcing the “The party’s strident and sustained to rally and champion the interests of depends, very Independent Commission Against rejection of the relocation of the constituents at the electorate level was Corruption would help address Powerhouse Museum to Parramatta commonly described as exceptional.” significantly, on a growing accountability, transparency was repeatedly cited, in report card and integrity concerns.” responses, as a disappointment.” On the basis of those assessments, it robust, razor-sharp is clear that Labor retains significant Plans to strengthen Industrial Relations The need for a more coordinated capacity with respect to its Western but constructive Commission protections for under-paid approach from the Opposition on Sydney credentials at the grassroots and gig workers would be welcome championing its considerable Western level. Coordination and consolidation of opposition.” among worker cohorts highly represented Sydney constituency was also noted, with effort remains an issue. It is also evident by Western Sydney residents. Equally, issues like school-aged digital literacy, – through inquiries and similar fora – that a suite of policy commitments made infrastructure and internet access seen particular early-career Labor MLCs have under ‘social justice’ and ‘women’ themes as areas where Labor’s voice was needed markedly high levels of awareness of, and would respond to significant gaps in with more intensity. Similarly, Labor is commitment to, Western Sydney and the the Government’s response to a range viewed as not having challenged the issues critical to the region. They must of issues, particularly relevant for a Government with the necessary rigour be utilised. Labor rates a C+ in the West socioeconomically diverse region like on significant failings in social housing at this mid-term point, with clear paths the West. stimulus, support for under-paid ‘essential for improvement, and enough time – if workers’, migrants and refugees and small committed – to mount a very compelling, business innovation. alternative vision for Western Sydney.
The NSW Government’s performance in Western Sydney 19
LABOR’S OVERALL RATING IN WESTERN SYDNEY:
C+
20 Mid-Term Report Card WESTERN SYDNEY’S PRIORITIES
INTERDEPENDENCIES “Understanding the interdependencies THE PERFORMANCE MATRIX The ratings against each priority account Western Sydney might be viewed is the key to good government in the The Centre for Western Sydney’s ‘Mid- for the Centre’s own analysis and the as a challenging proposition for West.” Term Report Card’ takes a comprehensive responses received by the Centre’s any government, given the region’s and integrated approach to benchmarking. partners in business, the community, local unapparelled growth, its spatial, With regard to Western Sydney’s It looks at the Centre’s six defined priority government, peak bodies, researchers, socioeconomic, health and economic strengths, the cascading effect of areas, critical to Western Sydney’s the NSW Government and the Opposition. disparities, and its relative political supporting women in the economy, continued development: Ratings include, where applicable, partner unpredictability demand a nuanced highlights what is possible if and Centre commentary on specific areas approach. Understanding the interconnected government engagement 1. Education and participation of government performance. interdependencies is the key to good with the West is encouraged, supported 2. Health and wellbeing government in the West. Being flexible and benchmarked. The priority a 3. Housing and community and responsive, operating inside, outside government affords an evidently critical, 4. Place and connectedness and across portfolio lanes is a must. and inter-related issue like the economic 5. Society and culture Recognising the region’s strengths is participation of women, is a good 6. Sustainability and economy fundamental. barometer of its performance overall.
The NSW Government’s performance in Western Sydney 21 EDUCATION AND PARTICIPATION ABOUT THIS PRIORITY From early childhood through to the tertiary stage, education remains the most “The NSW Government’s schools impactful catalyst for positive change in socioeconomically disadvantaged communities. Remarkable improvements infrastructure program is not in access to, and participation in, quality education have been achieved across Western Sydney over the past three keeping pace with Western decades; however, profound inequities persist in particular sub regions and among some communities. Sydney’s growth.” “From early childhood through to the tertiary stage, education remains the most impactful catalyst for positive change in socioeconomically GOOD PERFORMANCE POOR PERFORMANCE disadvantaged communities.” ≥ New schools at Catherine Park, ≥ Chronic schools overcrowding and Gledswood Hills, Jordan Springs, capacity issues in the north west and Digital literacy and digital access are Narellan and Oran Park outer south west THE VERDICT increasingly pivotal. The major economic ≥ $120 million funding commitment for ≥ Short-sighted schools infrastructure While acknowledging the major increase and labour market dislocations of the community and mobile preschools in planning in high growth areas in school building and upgrade activity, pandemic-related recession heighten the 2021 ≥ The growing ‘digital-divide’ for students the majority of Mid-Term Report Card urgency to address this priority. ≥ $337 million over the 2021 school year from less wealthy areas respondents felt the NSW Government’s for intensive tutoring programs ≥ An increasing funding gulf between the schools infrastructure program is not ≥ Expansion of the ‘School Breakfast 4 region’s richest and poorest schools keeping pace with Western Sydney’s Health’ program ≥ Major uncertainty and delays in the growth. Many also observed that not ≥ Commitments on Departmental rollout of the schools air-conditioning enough is being done to address widening accountability under the ‘School program inequality between the region’s schools. Success Model’ ≥ Lack of clarity on proposed TAFE job Nor was there sufficient recognition of, and ≥ Revived TAFE under new management cuts and the impact on Western Sydney support for, education as a pathway from with $80 million for a new Construction ≥ No connection for the new TAFE disadvantage. The stark digital divide that Hub Construction Hub on the St Marys – emerged during lockdown emphasised the ≥ Release of the ‘Accelerating R&D’ action Badgerys Creek Metro urgency of that task. plan and NSW Tertiary Education ≥ Pulling ‘Boosting Business Innovation’ Strategy R&D support for Western Sydney In contrast, the extension of the free ≥ Planning for the Multiversity and the entrepreneurs preschool program, the expansion of the ‘knowledge job’ Aerotropolis at the new ≥ Slow to address international student Foodbank-partnered school breakfasts airport needs during the pandemic
The NSW Government’s performance in Western Sydney 23
initiative, along with commitments to greater departmental accountability in INVESTMENT IN performance improvement, were positive and welcome developments. Equally, EDUCATION AND the co-design – with universities, TAFE and industry – of the New Education PARTICIPATION IS STEADY and Training Model for the Aerotropolis was seen as an encouraging step, by BUT NOT KEEPING PACE the Government, towards genuine collaboration. It is not clear, however, WITH GROWTH OR that the spirit of collaboration extends to encompass the development of a business ADDRESSING INEQUITY. case for an Advanced Manufacturing Research Facility, which in budget commentary cites only ‘business, industry and government’ as having a role.
Measures to ‘revive’ TAFE were welcomed, but respondents were undecided as to the Government’s long-term commitment to that task, especially in light of reports of potential large scale TAFE job cuts. Failures to link critical skills and jobs initiatives were also highlighted in Transport for NSW’s decision to exclude the new Construction Hub and Kingswood TAFE from the nearby St Marys to Western Sydney Airport Metro link. The Government’s decision to end ‘Boosting Business Innovation’ funding for Western Sydney businesses was viewed as an ‘incredibly short-sighted’ and C disappointing move during a recession.
24 Mid-Term Report Card The NSW Government’s performance in Western Sydney 25 HEALTH AND WELLBEING
26 Mid-Term Report Card ABOUT THIS PRIORITY Health is a fundamental barometer of community wellbeing. Significant “The recent public health response investments have been made, in recent years, in health infrastructure and services at sites like Blacktown-Mt Druitt, Liverpool, to the pandemic, across Western Nepean and Westmead. Equally, the recent public health response to the pandemic, across Western Sydney, indicates a Sydney, indicates a relatively high relatively high level of functionality and capacity across the network.
Planning and policy development level of functionality and capacity processes indicate the beginnings of a response to Western Sydney’s entrenched over-representation in chronic health across the network.” conditions like diabetes, heart disease and mental health issues. This is particularly true for people from Indigenous communities. Pronounced health workforce shortages in key frontline and allied health professions in the years ahead GOOD PERFORMANCE is a matter of additional concern. Meeting ≥ Strong, steady, decisive and informed these challenges will be pivotal in ensuring management of the pandemic POOR PERFORMANCE Western Sydney’s wellbeing through a ≥ The scientific and technological ≥ Lack of cut-through in pandemic ≥ Not enough recognition of, or period of continued growth and change. approach to contact-tracing information for non-English speaking investment in, urban heat mitigation as ≥ Major investments in health communities a public health issue infrastructure and precincts ≥ Missed opportunity to take a stronger ≥ Although significant, health ≥ Commitment to expanding health stimulus position on medical research infrastructure investment is not keeping research in the West funding pace with growth ≥ Good communication lines between ≥ Lack of focus on, and investment in, NSW health networks and local specific health challenges like diabetes government and obesity ≥ Locally embedded mental health and ≥ Clinical and chronic care favoured wellbeing programs ahead of access to community ≥ Positive inter-departmental (primary) health services collaboration on health and education ≥ Insufficient progress on Integrated precincts Health Hub delivery in high growth areas
The NSW Government’s performance in Western Sydney 27
THE VERDICT Respondents overwhelmingly lauded the AN EXCEPTIONAL PANDEMIC NSW Government’s management of the pandemic. Putting early challenges aside, RESPONSE IN SUPPORT OF the response in the West was seen as being ‘led by the science’, and described HEALTH AND WELLBEING, as ‘exceptional’ in its measure, clarity and execution. BACKED BY SUSTAINED Major investments in health infrastructure INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT – in particular at, Campbelltown ($632 million), Liverpool ($740 million), Nepean AND PRECINCT DEVELOPMENT. ($550 million) and Westmead ($832 million) – were viewed favourably, as were broader precinct initiatives. While not lagging to the extent of schools, respondents noted that health infrastructure investment – despite its scale – is still not keeping pace with growth, especially in the outer south west.
“Respondents overwhelmingly lauded the NSW Government’s management of the pandemic.”
Differing views exist as to the balance between investments in primary and tertiary care. And while communication between local health districts and wider agencies is seen as strong, especially in the south-west, there was sustained A criticism of perceived failings to achieve ‘cut-through’ on important public health messages with the region’s non-English speaking communities. Overall, however, the Government is performing well in a critical area for Western Sydney, with a clear long-term plan and commitment to implement it.
28 Mid-Term Report Card The NSW Government’s performance in Western Sydney 29 HOUSING AND
30 Mid-Term Report Card COMMUNITY ABOUT THIS PRIORITY A safe and secure home is a fundamental right many people in Western Sydney “A safe and secure home is a are denied. Rates of homelessness and housing insecurity have changed little in recent decades. Worse, the representation fundamental right many people of young people and older community members, particularly women, is increasing. This is intolerable, particularly in Western Sydney are denied.” in a country as wealthy as Australia.
The recent recession and related labour market implications will further impact housing affordability across Western GOOD PERFORMANCE POOR PERFORMANCE THE VERDICT Sydney. Without a coordinated, and at- ≥ $812 million commitment to building ≥ The failure to match Victoria’s $5.3 In light of the NSW Government’s scale, government response to support and upgrading social and affordable billion commitment to social housing commentary on the ‘strong and stable’ social housing, profound housing housing and job creation state of its Budget position, its reluctance challenges experienced throughout the ≥ $291.8 million in 2020-21 ($1.1 ≥ Missed opportunity to utilise stimulus to make at-scale stimulus commitments region risk being exacerbated. billion over 4 years) for specialist for large scale social housing to an issue of demonstrably profound homelessness services investment need, like social housing, was questioned ≥ Changes to State Environmental ≥ Less than half of the $812 million by nearly all Mid-Term Report Card Planning Policy to fast-track social committed to social housing will be respondents. This perception was further housing projects spent this year articulated via respondent references ≥ Stamp duty and land tax reform ≥ Lack of ambition on, and commitment to the State’s (pre-December 2020) proposals to ‘reduce upfront costs for to, ‘inclusionary zoning’ affordable AAA credit rating, and the better-than- buyers’ housing targets expected fiscal recovery setting emerging ≥ Rapid re-housing of people ≥ Problems with social housing quality in early 2021. Surely, ideal platforms for a experiencing homelessness during the and responsiveness to maintenance bold stimulus response. pandemic lockdown issues ≥ Affordable housing targets in the ≥ Failure to transition project ownership “The Government’s reluctance to make Greater Sydney Commission’s district or management to community housing at-scale stimulus commitments to an plans providers issue of demonstrably profound need, ≥ Extended exhibition time on key ≥ Large scale developments approved like social housing, was questioned.” housing related strategies to allow with no, or inadequate, transport and proper consideration infrastructure Referencing the Victorian Government’s ≥ Terrible urban design for heat in endless $5.3 billion investment in social housing, plains of McMansions one respondent calculated this equated to a $791 per capita (ABS, 2020) investment
The NSW Government’s performance in Western Sydney 31
for Victorians, compared with NSW’s spend of $99 per capita per resident on A MISSED OPPORTUNITY FOR social housing. The interstate gap was similar with regard to investments made HOUSING AND COMMUNITY to redress homelessness. Respondents also noted the 43,000 job creation target STIMULUS THAT COULD HAVE attached to the Victorian scheme, citing it as a further missed opportunity to support DELIVERED A STEP-CHANGE IN construction jobs. SOCIAL HOUSING, HOMELESSNESS Almost without exception, the Government was assessed as having failed AND AFFORDABILITY. to seize a generational opportunity to act on an issue of critical importance for Western Sydney and NSW more broadly. With two years remaining in this term, the opportunity for action, at-scale, still exists.
“The greater promotion of a principles- based approach to planning is a subtle yet important change.”
The greater promotion of a principles- based approach to planning is a subtle yet important change. Equally, the Government’s commitment to breaking down patterns of housing ‘segregation according to income bracket’ and tenure type is encouraging. If properly funded and supported across portfolios - and done with (not to) communities - such an C- approach could prove a vitally important shift for a region like Western Sydney.
32 Mid-Term Report Card The NSW Government’s performance in Western Sydney 33 PLACE AND 4CONNECTEDNESS34 Mid-Term Report Card ABOUT THIS PRIORITY As a markedly dispersed and dynamic metropolitan area, Western Sydney relies “Prioritising connections to, and on connectivity – via transport links, digital and related infrastructure – to realise the full range of regional priorities. significantly increasing, jobs- The Greater Sydney Commission’s ‘Three Cities’ framework promotes the principle of a ’30-minute city’. This approach, if dense concentrations is pivotal.” supported by targeted infrastructure investment and evidence-based policy development, is a viable structure against which to pursue rapid, multimodal and sustainable transport options. GOOD PERFORMANCE POOR PERFORMANCE THE VERDICT ≥ $656 million invested in Parramatta ≥ Uncertainty over the Government’s For a community as diverse, and a Prioritising connections to, and Light Rail (Stage 1) commitment to Stage 2 of the region as expansive, as Western Sydney, significantly increasing, jobs-dense ≥ Opening of the Metro North West Parramatta Light Rail Mid-Term Report Card responses concentrations is pivotal. Concurrently, (Tallawong to Chatswood) ≥ More stops in the East and Inner Sydney regarding place and connectedness were planning for transport and digital ≥ Planning, consultation and site than Western Sydney on the Sydney understandably detailed, varied and connectivity must respond to changing investigation underway on the Sydney Metro West considered. The Coalition’s delivery of work patterns instilled throughout the Metro West ≥ No firm timeframe or commitment to the North West Metro, and investment pandemic. Measures to ensure digital ≥ Commitment to open the Sydney Metro link Campbelltown via rail or metro to in projects like the Parramatta Light connectivity for socioeconomically – Western Sydney Airport line by 2026 the Airport Rail – developed at the local government disadvantaged members of the ≥ $350 million committed to begin ≥ Gaps in train service frequency and level – have been welcomed, as has community are critical, as is supporting construction on the M12 airport link in speed from 2017 timetable still not work to accelerate the project. Similar digital literacy. 2022 addressed commitments to initiatives like the Sydney ≥ Significant travel time savings in ≥ Poor connections between Western Metro West and the Western Sydney WestConnex (Haberfield to Parramatta) Sydney hubs entrenches car Airport line, are viewed positively. M4 stage dependency ≥ ‘Your High Street’ and ‘Streets as ≥ Lack of funding for the undergrounding “The scale of growth in the West, Shared Spaces’ community engaged of the Bankstown stop on the Metro combined with the region’s profound planning conversion and persistent jobs-distribution deficit ≥ Aerotropolis and Westmead designated ≥ The fast-tracking of employment lands demands far greater urgency and scale as ‘lighthouse’ precincts rezoning without addressing transport in infrastructure investment.” ≥ New Western Parkland City Authority gaps to focus on entire Western Sydney City ≥ Some agency ‘place’ programs are After nearly a decade in office, there is Deal area simply duplications, and poorly little argument that the Coalition have conceived made greater progress on transport connectivity for Western Sydney than their
The NSW Government’s performance in Western Sydney 35
Labor predecessors over a comparable period. But that’s not enough. The scale RELATIVELY STRONG of growth in the West, combined with the region’s profound and persistent TRANSPORT INVESTMENTS jobs-distribution deficit demands far greater urgency and scale in infrastructure IN SUPPORT OF PLACE AND investment. In this context, the way decisions on connectivity are made is also CONNECTEDNESS BUT MISSING critical. CRITICAL LINKS AND PROJECT Doubt over Stage 2 of the Parramatta Light Rail, and the comparative lack CERTAINTY. of Western Sydney station sites (just three stops) on the Sydney West Metro are provoking questions as to the Government’s commitment to leveraging projects to address the region’s jobs imbalance. Equally, transport connections that fail to link skills and jobs centres like the Western Sydney Construction Hub to opportunities like the Airport run counter to broader government commitments to job creation.
“Connecting the West with the West must be the priority.”
The place-based framework set under the Greater Sydney Commission’s ‘Three Cities’ model remains one of the most potentially transformative mechanisms with which to B+ harness Western Sydney’s growing skilled workforce. For that to work, connecting the West with the West must be the priority of its next iteration.
36 Mid-Term Report Card The NSW Government’s performance in Western Sydney 37 SOCIETY AND 538 Mid-Term Report Card CULTURE ABOUT THIS PRIORITY As an expression of community diversity and dynamism, culture is the characteristic “Culture is the characteristic that kinetically defines, reshapes and challenges Western Sydney’s identity. At a structural level, investment in arts that kinetically defines, reshapes infrastructure and programs for Western Sydney still significantly lags Inner Sydney and comparable populations. and challenges Western Sydney’s The Powerhouse relocation to Parramatta brings scale, but the implications of the subsequent retention of the museum’s identity.” Ultimo site, and questions over political will, need to be addressed. Resourcing and support for greater cultural THE VERDICT expression among the region’s widespread The Powerhouse Parramatta is among migrant, refugee and ethnically diverse GOOD PERFORMANCE POOR PERFORMANCE the most significant cultural infrastructure communities is needed. ≥ Commitment to the Powerhouse ≥ Retreat on original commitment to fully investments in NSW history. Support Parramatta relocate the Powerhouse to Parramatta for the initiative and its distinct focus on ≥ Confirmed Riverside Theatres upgrade ≥ Abandonment of both the promised Indigenous astronomy, space exploration, ≥ $190 million Western Parkland City ANZ rebuild then refurbishment transport, agriculture, food, climate and Liveability Program ≥ Insufficient funding for smaller and energy was strong among Mid-Term ≥ Strong focus on public space access community-based arts and cultural Report Card respondents. ‘Why stop at the and activation institutions Powerhouse?’ one respondent remarked. ≥ Multicultural NSW COMPACT grants ≥ Lack of strategic direction on the arts ‘What about other assets… being ≥ Create NSW’s Western Sydney Arts, or a long-term plan for the region’s leveraged for an accelerated equity drive Screen and Cultural Roundtable creative future into the West?’ ≥ New co-funded $25 million ‘Granville ≥ Under-investment in community Centre’ community hub and gallery capacity building, particularly in high “Why stop at the Powerhouse?” growth areas ≥ Structural issues are a barrier to Investments in multicultural programs attracting large scale events and via initiatives like the COMPACT festivals to the West scheme were viewed as positive, yet respondents emphasised the need for more comprehensive programs of support for community capacity building across Western Sydney,
The NSW Government’s performance in Western Sydney 39
particularly in high growth and socioeconomically diverse areas. THE POWERHOUSE Lack of clarity and commitment PARRAMATTA COMMITMENT on particular society and culture investments was cited as an issue of MUST BE FOLLOWED BY MORE considerable concern. The rationale for the abandonment of the ANZ stadium rebuild, COMMUNITY ARTS SUPPORT and then its planned refurbishment was unclear, especially in the wake of the FOR SOCIAL AND CULTURAL strident case the Government made for the project pre-election. Also, it EXPRESSION. is unclear whether the much-needed ‘grassroots’ and ‘community sports’ facilities will be delivered, as promised, in the NSW Government co-funded Penrith community and sports centre.
“People need to see themselves reflected in the cultural and arts offerings made available to them.”
Respondents from the region’s arts sector emphasised the need for a definitive and properly resourced cultural strategy for the region’s future. The absence of such a plan became clear during the pandemic, one respondent observed, when the lack of direction made the mobilisation of urgently needed support difficult across the West. B
Respondents noted the positive impact the arts has on mental health. ‘People need to see themselves reflected in the cultural and arts offerings made available to them.’ That was viewed as especially critical in a culturally diverse region like Western Sydney.
40 Mid-Term Report Card The NSW Government’s performance in Western Sydney 41 SUSTAINABILITY 642 Mid-Term Report CardAND ECONOMY ABOUT THIS PRIORITY While relative income, employment and economic participation levels have “For many women, poor access to increased in recent decades, Western Sydney is characterised by distinct differences in prosperity. Several child care and the lack of related subregions of the West had youth unemployment levels in excess of 20 per cent, pre-pandemic. Those challenges policy and economic stimulus have likely intensified as a result of the recession and associated labour market dislocation. measures have compounded Persistent disparities also exist in structural barriers to economic participation among large segments of the region. For many constraints on their capacity to women, poor access to child care and the lack of related policy and economic stimulus measures have compounded engage in work.” constraints on their capacity to engage in work. Despite numerous government strategies to address job-creation and job-density shortfalls across Western Sydney, the region still profoundly lags with widespread global shifts towards at- Inner Sydney and comparable areas on scale sustainability initiatives, plus private both counts. An expanded and accelerated sector and community momentum for policy response is required, and the evidence-based policy responses and GOOD PERFORMANCE ≥ Decentralisation of government offices urgency has intensified with the onset of investment incentives. ≥ ‘Clean Energy’ Electricity Infrastructure to Parramatta and the West more the recession. Investment Act broadly As the site of the hottest day on the planet ≥ 200,000 ‘knowledge jobs’ by 2038 ≥ Release of the Sydney Green Grid “The development of clean tech and in January 2020 (recorded in Penrith), target under the Western Sydney City (Western Sydney Districts) spatial circular economy solutions need to be Western Sydney’s planning, development Deal framework accelerated and built into whole-of- and growth must be led by embedded ≥ $57.4 million over four years to create a ≥ Development of the CSIRO-partnered government approaches.” principles of sustainability, not simply Trades Skills Pathways Centre Western Parkland City digital twin isolated projects and schemes. The ≥ $318.6 million over two years in the ≥ $60 million to establish the Western Equally, environmental sustainability, the development of clean tech and circular Skilling for Recovery training package Sydney Centre of Innovation in Plant principles of circular economy and climate economy solutions need to be accelerated ≥ Strategic business case for South West Sciences policy remain challenging propositions for and built into whole-of-government Community and Justice Precinct ≥ Targets for tree canopy and the review Australian governments – particularly at approaches, of which the Western Sydney of water recycling policy the federal level. Policy has not kept pace City Deal is a ready-made framework.
The NSW Government’s performance in Western Sydney 43 POOR PERFORMANCE THE VERDICT ≥ Insufficient clarity on business and For a jurisdiction with an exceptionally “Accountability for the large scale and investment attraction coordination for strong global credit rating and economic Western Sydney profile, NSW was well placed to manage targeted investment attraction and job ≥ MOU’s with Aerotropolis corporates the extraordinary socioeconomic upheaval need to be translated into binding of the pandemic. In many respects, as this creation programs Western Sydney so agreements report has highlighted, that response was ≥ Job creation is not being pursued solid, particularly in health and wellbeing. evidently requires is exceedingly hard with sufficient urgency despite clearly More targeted stimulus measures and evidenced deficits programs supported the broader recovery to pin down.” ≥ Lacking a detailed post-pandemic effort. Equally, as Mid-Term Report Card jobs and investment plan for Western respondents have indicated, measures like Sydney the Electricity Infrastructure Investment “These agencies, we have been assured to be realised in the state’s interests. This ≥ Pockets of youth unemployment in Act set a strong pathway and, critically, over the past decade, were created to requires a renewed commitment to the excess of 20 per cent not sufficiently build confidence in recovery, especially for end that problem.” principles of the Government’s own ‘Three addressed a region like Western Sydney where ‘clean Cities’ model; ideally that will occur with ≥ Delay in finalising the 20-year waste tech’ has ready-made alignments with the Plans emerging from the Western a refresh of the plan before the end of the strategy, and lack clarity on water area’s advanced manufacturing base and Parkland City Authority to promote current electoral term. recycling program emerging entrepreneurial ecosystem. innovations in sustainable green/blue grid ≥ No resolution of Warragamba Dam are encouraging. If supported through “If 48.9C heat in Penrith does not infrastructure, environmental and The trouble is – and respondents are agreed Circular Economy principles then focus minds in the Government on evacuation issues almost completely in agreement on this a platform is set for this part of Western the urgency of this task, and the ≥ Slow on recreational water access at point – the coordination and cohesion of Sydney to lead globally in economically opportunities it presents, then Penrith Lakes, Prospect and Central these initiatives is unclear across wider sustainable ‘clean tech’ solutions. The NSW nothing will.” City rivers government. ‘Who is responsible?’ was Circular Economy Network, supported by ≥ Improved tree canopy alone will not a common refrain. Accountability for the Chief Scientist and Engineers’ Office is Lastly, planting more trees, while make walking and cycling viable in 40+ the large scale and targeted investment an excellent way to guide that. necessary, will not go near addressing the degree heat attraction and job creation programs extraordinary challenges Western Sydney Western Sydney so evidently requires Different opportunities to leverage more faces with respect to climate change is exceedingly hard to pin down, with established economic strengths, at and urban heat build-up. Urban design multiple agencies and three levels of significant scale, exist across the Central mandates, the adoption of heat resistant government intersecting and, at-times, River City. This area of the West has materials and cooling methodology – not diluting agreed directions and targets. among the most highly skilled labour just in building but in the roll-out and These agencies, we have been assured markets in the country, yet it also retains retro-fit of road and rail infrastructure over the past decade, were created to end pockets of disadvantage. Prioritising – must be a matter of the greatest that problem. A detailed, evidence-based transport links between the Parkland priority for the Government. If 48.9C and genuinely consultative recovery plan and River cities – ahead of funnelling heat in Penrith does not focus minds in for the West would be a way to short- workers to the East – must be task of far Government on the urgency of this task, circuit and resolve that issue. greater urgency for the Government if and the opportunities it presents, then Western Sydney’s inherent strengths are nothing will.
44 Mid-Term Report Card
A TRANSFORMATIVE INVESTMENT IN CLEAN ENERGY INDUSTRY ATTRACTION, INNOVATION AND JOB CREATION, BUT LACKING URGENCY AND INVESTMENT IN ADDRESSING URBAN HEAT.
B-
The NSW Government’s performance in Western Sydney 45 CONCLUSION
A CONSTRUCTIVE APPROACH It is evident that regardless of political or by Western Sydney University and its FURTHER READING The politics of Western Sydney and ideological differences, there is significant community, industry and sector partners. With respect to the challenges this report the performance of the Government alignment between the Government, the The ‘Further Reading’ section at the close identifies, there are solutions being and the Opposition are, of course, Opposition and, importantly, community of this report is a starting point. actively developed in the West, with and matters of greater sophistication than responses to Western Sydney’s priorities. for our region. Examples include: a report card rating. This report is a In an era when, globally, trust in political starting point. It is a means to provoke The development of the report has structures is in flux, ensuring integrity, Madden, A. L. et al., 2018, Cool Schools, greater scrutiny and participation on been an opportunity to re-engage with transparency and accountability in Western Sydney University, Penrith. the part of Western Sydney residents the region’s distinct characteristics and government is a matter of critical in the politics, planning and policies strengths. That has made one point importance. This Mid-Term Report Maurushat, A. et al., 2017, ‘Open data that shape and define our region. abundantly clear. It is imperative that Card is a contribution to that task. The : turning data into information, and The articulate, considered and Western Sydney’s diversity is reflected Centre plans to continue its Report information into insights that allow for pragmatic critiques and solutions in NSW Parliament. More government Card model with future assessments evidence-based policy’, Newcastle Law respondents have offered in this representatives need to look and sound of state and federal government Review, vol 12 , pp 104 – 147. report should be received in the like the West. We don’t have nearly performance, at the mid and end points spirit in which they were intended. enough levels of cultural diversity, nor of electoral cycles. The contribution of Morrison, N. and Nouwelant, R., 2020, are women, LGBTI and younger people our partners will be essential, as will the ‘Western Sydney’s urban transformation : adequately represented in both Chambers. engagement of the Government, the examining the governance arrangements Setting that agenda is likely a priority for Opposition and the wider community. driving forward the growth vision’, future investigation on the part of the We extend our sincere thanks for that Australian Planner, vol 56, no 2 , pp 73 – 82 Centre and its partners. cooperation in this inaugural report. Newbrook, A. et al., 2020, Western Sydney For the Centre for Western Sydney, the Centres: Beyond Recovery, WSP, Western performance markers and priorities Sydney Leadership Dialogue, Centre for identified in this report are promoted Western Sydney, Sydney. as genuinely constructive contributions to optimising policy development and O’Neill, P., 2020, Where are the jobs? government engagement with the West. [Parts 1-3]: Western Sydney’s Short-lived This sentiment is backed by evidence. Jobs Boom, Centre for Western Sydney, The Centre seeks to promote the work Western Sydney University, Parramatta. of its affiliate researchers in this regard, noting the considerable projects that have Pfautsch, S. et al., 2018, ‘Materials that been produced, or are being undertaken make heat worse for our kids demand a rethink by designers’, The Conversation’, Sydney.
46 Mid-Term Report Card HOW WOULD YOU RATE THE GOVERNMENT’S PERFORMANCE IN THE WEST?
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The NSW Government’s performance in Western Sydney 47