Sutherland Shire Council Table of Contents

State of the Shire 2007/08 REPORT November 2008

PEOPLE PLACE NATURE GOVERNANCE

Prepared by Strategic Planning and Environmental Science and Policy Units Tel: 9710 0684

Executive Summary – 4

Scorecard – 5 People – 5 Place – 5 Nature – 6 Governance – 6

Introduction – 7

PEOPLE DIRECTION 1 – 9 A safe community where everybody has the opportunity to take part in social life – 9 What is the indicator? – 9 What is happening? – 10 What is the response? – 14

PEOPLE DIRECTION 2 – 16 A harmonious community based on respect and responsibility, where everybody is made to feel welcome and valued – 16 What is the indicator? – 16 What is happening? – 17 What is the response? – 26

PEOPLE DIRECTION 3 – 29 A healthy and active community with appropriate activities and services for all stages of the life cycle – 29 What is the indicator? – 29 What is happening? – 32 What is the response? – 47

PEOPLE DIRECTION 4 – 50 A strong community based on networks of families, neighbourhoods, community groups and local – 50 businesses – 50 What is the indicator? – 50 What is happening? – 51 What is the response? – 56

PEOPLE DIRECTION 5 – 58 A learning community which values education and embraces life long learning opportunities – 58 What is the indicator? – 58 What is happening? – 59 What is the response? – 65

PEOPLE DIRECTION 6 – 68 A prosperous community with economic opportunities which value people and nature – 68 What is the indicator? – 68 What is happening? – 69 What is the response? – 73

PLACE DIRECTION 1 – 74 Greater Housing Choice to suit a changing population, and increased access to housing and design that is suitable within the environment – 74 What is the indicator? – 74 What is happening? – 75 What is the response? – 81

PLACE DIRECTION 2 – 82 Improved Transport Options – 82 What is the indicator? – 82 What is happening? – 83 What is the response? – 87

PLACE DIRECTION 3 – 90 Leisure and recreation opportunities to suit the needs of the changing population, and that are designed to have minimal impact on the environment – 90 What is the indicator? – 90 What is happening? – 91 What is the response? – 96

PLACE DIRECTION 4 – 99

Page 2 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 3 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Local suburban activity centres that support a healthy local economy and build a sense of community – 99 What is the indicator? – 99 What is happening? – 100 What is the response? – 102

PLACE DIRECTION 5 – 103 Well maintained and efficient critical infrastructure which meets current and future needs – 103 What is the indicator? – 103 What is happening? – 105 What is the response? – 109

PLACE DIRECTION 6 – 113 Acknowledgment of the importance of historically and culturally significant places to the Shire’s identity for both current and for future generations – 113 What is the indicator? – 113 What is happening? – 114 What is the response? – 115

NATURE DIRECTION 1 – 117 Minimisation of the environmental, economic and social impacts of disasters – 117 What is the indicator? – 117 What is happening? – 118 What is the response? – 119

NATURE DIRECTION 2 – 120 A low waste future - avoid, reduce, reuse, recycle - with best practice waste disposal – 120 What is the indicator? – 120 What is happening? – 121 What is the response? – 126

NATURE DIRECTION 3 – 129 Abundant and Healthy native flora and fauna – 129 What is the indicator? – 129 What is the indicator? – 130 What is the response? – 136

NATURE DIRECTION 4 – 141 Cleaner, healthier waterways, beaches and wetlands with healthy marine life, cleaner storm water run off – 141 What is the indicator? – 141 What is happening? – 142 What is the response? – 150

NATURE DIRECTION 5 – 152 Reduced Greenhouse Emissions and Better Air Quality – 152 What is the indicator? – 152 What is happening? – 153 What is the response? – 157

NATURE DIRECTION 6 – 159 Conservation of our natural resources – 159 What is the indicator? – 159 What is happening? – 160 What is the response? – 164

Governance – 165 What is the indicator? – 165 What is happening? – 167 What is the response? – 173

Conclusion – 175

Appendix – 176

Page 2 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 3 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council ExecutiveEXECUTIVE Summary SUMMARY The State of the Shire Report 2007/08, provides a snapshot of the quality of life and wellbeing for the Shire. For the first time, in this edition Council has combined two reports; formerly the State of the Shire report (SoS) and the former State of the Environment report (SoE). Previously the SOS was developed and initiated by Council while the SOE is a mandatory report required of all Councils by the NSW Department of Local Government. The reports were merged to minimise duplication and streamline reporting processes to form an integrated holistic mechanism for reporting on sustainability. Reporting is now aligned with the principal activities of Council's recently reviewed strategic plan Our Shire Our Future - Our Guide for Shaping the Shire to 2030 (The Guide). The format has changed to achieve an integrated, cohesive report. The SOS 2007/08 report presents trend data for each reporting period from 1997, 2000, 2004 and 2008 to show whether the Shire is Moving towards or moving away from its vision in four principal activity areas - People, Place, Nature and Governance. These areas identified through consultation with the community are the pillars of quadruple bottom line planning, activity and reporting, identified to achieve the Shire's vision. Positive and adverse findings through analysing information provided by indicators, enable the community to be informed with factual information and to assist in determining future actions to maintain or improve the Shire's vision. The findings from the report show that we are Moving towards the Shire vision in the principal activity areas of People and Governance and away from the Shire vision in principal activity areas of Place and Nature. The following score card provides a summary of the findings.

SCORECARD

PEOPLE (Formerly - Safety, Social cohesion, Health, Leisure and Education)

Direction Trend Direction 1 - A safe community where everybody has the opportunity to take part in social life

Direction 2 - A harmonious community based on respect and responsibility, where everybody is made to feel welcome and valued

Direction 3 - A healthy and active community with appropriate activities and services for all stages of the life cycle

Direction 4 - A strong community based on networks of families, neighbourhoods, community groups and local businesses

Direction 5 - A learning community which values education and embraces life long learning opportunities

Direction 6 - A prosperous community with economic opportunities which value people and nature

PLACE

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The aim of sustainability is to protect the environmental, social and economic rights of future generations without compromising those of the current generation. In the Sutherland Shire sustainability forms an integral part of Council's Strategic Plan. A primary objective of the plan is to ensure that economic, social and environmental considerations are integrated into Council's decision making processes and that sustainable outcomes are achieved through balancing the short and long term needs of government, the business sector, community groups, residents and visitors. In 2007/ 2008 the combining of the State of the Environment report (SoE) and State of the Shire report (SoS) provides Council and the community with a more informative and comprehensive measure of the Shire's progress toward a sustainable future through the monitoring of key environmental and social indicators and the meeting of the community's vision; "A community working together to attain safe, healthy and active lifestyles through accountable decision- making that achieves sustainable development and economic opportunities which respect people and nature." (Developed by the people of Sutherland Shire 1997)

WHY COMBINE THE SoE AND SoS? This is the first time that Council has combined two reports, formerly the State of the Shire report (SoS) and the former State of the Environment report (SoE). Previously the SoS was developed and initiated by Council while the SoE is a mandatory report required of all Councils by the NSW Department of Local Government. The reports were merged to minimise duplication and streamline reporting processes to form an integrated holistic mechanism for reporting on sustainability.

Reporting is now aligned with the principal activities of Council's recently reviewed strategic plan Our Shire Our Future - Our Guide for Shaping the Shire to 2030 (The Guide). The format has changed to achieve an integrated, cohesive report. By combining the SoE and SoS reports, the aim is to:

Move toward integrated reporting in line with the recommendations of the NSW Department of Local Government Ensure that the Environmental reporting follows the Environmental Guidelines: State of the Environment Reporting by Local Government (DLG 1999). Ensure that complex information is reader friendly Use information to support Council's policy of Management by Fact Ensure that the information contained assists sound governance through Evidence based decision making as outlined in the strategic and management plans of Council Enable the community to know what needs to change to achieve its vision using a sustainable, balanced and holistic approach Move to an electronic format to utilise emerging technologies and conserve pape

The report addresses four principal activity areas drawing on many themes including land use, air quality, water, biodiversity, waste, noise and heritage. Within this context it examines issues such as transport, housing, health, social cohesion, safety, leisure, neighbourhoods and infrastructure. Matters such as service satisfaction and involvement, evidence based decision making, sustainability and value for money and ethical operations are also addressed. In essence it provides a broader but equally more integrated approach on issues associated with the Sutherland Shire's social, economic, environmental and governance spheres than could be previously achieved in the SoE and SoS.

HOW HAS THE REPORT FORMAT CHANGED?

Page 6 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 7 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council The aim of sustainability is to protect the environmental, social and economic rights of future generations without compromising those of the current generation. In the Sutherland Shire sustainability forms an integral part of Council's Strategic Plan. A primary objective of the plan is to ensure that economic, social and environmental considerations are integrated into Council's decision making processes and that sustainable outcomes are achieved through balancing the short and long term needs of government, the business sector, community groups, residents and visitors. In 2007/ 2008 the combining of the State of the Environment report (SoE) and State of the Shire report (SoS) provides Council and the community with a more informative and comprehensive measure of the Shire's progress toward a sustainable future through the monitoring of key environmental and social indicators and the meeting of the community's vision; "A community working together to attain safe, healthy and active lifestyles through accountable decision- making that achieves sustainable development and economic opportunities which respect people and nature." (Developed by the people of Sutherland Shire 1997)

HOW HAS THE REPORT FORMAT CHANGED? The report is consistent with the reporting requirements of the SoE under the Local Government Act 1993 with each chapter addressing "What is the indicator?", "What is Happening?" (State and Pressure) and, "What is the response?"(Response. Formerly 12 key 'life spheres' were identified and reported in the State of the Shire Report and eight core environmental sectors reported in the SoE. The methods of reporting have condensed 12 life spheres down to four principal activities as follows which is consistent with Council's Strategic Plan.

People (Formerly - Safety, Social cohesion, Health, Leisure and Education) Place (Formerly - Housing, Economy, Neighbourhood) Nature (Formerly - Transport, Land Use, Environment) Governance (Formerly - Civic participation)

Within the 4 principal activities the 8 core environmental sectors, Land, Air, Water, Biodiversity, Noise, Waste, Aboriginal heritage, Non Aboriginal heritage have been included The report incorporates indicators used by Council and other authorities to monitor change, a discussion on the relevant issues and a summary of actions. It reports on all major social, economic and environmental impacts and related activities and the linkages between each principal activity. A summary of the actions undertaken by Council and other authorities to redress the impacts is provided.

CONSULTATION FOR THE REPORT The State of the Shire 2007/08 report is a living document. The most current data available at the time of developing the report was used to inform it. In some instances there is a considerable time lag for the information available, particularly at a Local Government Area (LGA) level. Where LGA data is unavailable specific catchment areas such as regional, Sydney Statistical Division and NSW comparative data is used. For this edition, expertise was sought as needed to source relevant data and various units of Council also provided data.

DISTRIBUTION For the first time, the report has been produced electronically in a reader friendly manner and is available through a link on Council's website at www.sutherland.nsw.gov.au.

INTEGRATED REPORTING The Strategic Plan - The Guide for Sutherland Shire, sets out the principal activities to be undertaken to achieve the community's vision. Councils Quadruple Bottom Line Management Plan enables Council to report through quarterly reports on the actions taken toward the vision. Council also utilises successive SoS/SoE reports to develop and monitor its various plans, such as the Economic Development Plan, Tourism, Social and Crime Prevention Plans. Council's Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Surveys, The Australian Bureau of Statistics Census of Population and Housing and the Chief Health Officers Reports have been utilised extensively throughout this document. References for material in the report are found in the "What is the indicator?" section in each principal activity section of this report and in the bibliography. Other organisations utilise this report including educational institutions, government departments, and non government not for profit organisations, businesses and environmental groups.

THE DEVELOPMENT AND REVIEW OF THE STRATEGIC PLAN Council's strategic planning process commenced in 1997 involving 15,000 people. This process enabled Council to develop a strategic plan focussed on the next 30 years to 2030, called Our Shire, Our Future - Our Guide for Shaping the Shire to 2030 (The Guide). It was determined that this plan should be reviewed periodically.

In 2005 a Community Priorities survey was undertaken with 500 residents; a progress report on the implementation of the strategies in The Guide was developed, as were a series of 14 issues workshops. In 2006 a further 15 strategy development workshops were held throughout the Shire and a survey sent to each household. In 2007 a review of the (Draft) Strategic Plan was placed on public exhibition and subsequently adopted in May, 2007, resulting in the 2007 Our Shire, Our Future - Our Guide for Shaping the Shire to 2030.

ACTION FROM HERE The indicators in this report can inform us about what is happening in the Shire and what direction the Shire is moving in. The indicators provided are a guide only. Action to address these issues is required to respond to the matters identified in the report. The report is designed to assist with forward planning, lobbying, funding submissions and decision making to assist in allocation of funding. Sutherland Shire Local Government Area is the key focus of this report and as such Sutherland Shire Council takes a leadership role in responding to many issues identified in this report - regardless of wether or not it has responsibility for them. There are many individuals, organisations, businesses and tiers of government influencing the Shire and all play a role in contributing to the decisions made about it. Each one has a significant impact on the future of our Shire. This report may assist in making decisions which will improve outcomes in the long term.

AWhat safe community is the where indicator? everybody has the opportunity to take part in social life

What is the indicator?

Indicators:

Rates of crime Perceptions of community safety Safety in the public domain Domestic violence and child protection

Rates of crime are an indicator of how safe a community is. Crime affects the community in terms of lost or injured lives, insurance premiums, law enforcement and court costs, property damage and loss of community trust. The information is collected by the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) taken from the NSW Police database. It is a record of all incidents reported to the police within the specified time frame. Perceptions of community safety are an important gauge of how secure the community feels and how this affects their daily life. This indicator is measured through SSC Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Surveys (NIPS) carried out in 1997, 2000, 2003 and 2007. Safety in the public domain looks at the types of crimes that occur, where they occur and who is most likely to be a victim. The indicator is based on multiple information sources including BOCSAR's LGA Crime Report: Sutherland Shire and NSW Recorded Crime Statistics; SSC Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Surveys (NIPS) carried out in 1997, 2000, 2003 and 2007; as well as the ABS report Crime and Safety NSW. Domestic violence and child protection is measured by the number of domestic violence related assaults and Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders (ADVOs) issued by the courts, together with breach of Apprehended Violence Orders (AVO) offences. This information is collated by BOCSAR.

What is happening?

Indicators:

Rates of crime Perceptions of community safety Safety in the public domain Domestic violence and child protection Rates of crime State In 2007 the top offences in the Shire were malicious damage (2933 offences), assault (1453 offences), and theft from a motor vehicle (1181 offences). Pressure When compared to the Sydney Statistical Division (SD), Sutherland Shire generally has much lower rates of crime. The Shire does not rank in the top 25 areas in NSW for any crime (BOCSAR). However there are particular types of offences where the Shire actually has a higher rate than the Statistical Division Sydney, including offensive conduct or language and driving with prescribed content of alcohol (PCA). Malicious damage to property has gradually increased in the Shire since 2003, with the 2007 rate almost equal to Sydney. Break and enter, vehicle and personal theft offences have dropped in both the Shire and Sydney in the same period.

Table: Sydney SD and Sutherland LGA Crime Rates 2003-2007

Indicators:

Table: Sydney SD and Sutherland LGA Crime Rates 2003-2007

2003 2005 2007

Total Rate per 100,000 Total Rate per 100,000 Total Rate per 100,000 Assault 39,181.0 933.2 39,224.0 921.8 40,701.0 948.1 Assault 1,239.0 576.5 1311.0 563.1 1453.0 678.9 Sexual or indecent Assault 4,057.0 96.6 3,773.0 88.7 3,636.0 84.7 Sexual or indecent Assault 123.0 57.3 130.0 60.4 158.0 59.3 Break and Enter - Dwellings 58,145.0 1,384.9 44,356.0 1,042.5 40,578.0 945.2 & Non-dwellings Break and Enter - Dwellings 2,276.0 1,058.9 1,478.0 687.3 1,218.0 569.1 & Non-dwellings Motor vehicle theft 24,549.0 584.7 20,211.0 475.0 18,538.0 431.8 Motor vehicle theft 713.0 331.7 603.0 280.4 483.0 225.7 Steal from motor vehicle 43,619.0 1,038.9 35,822.0 841.9 43,448.0 1,012.0 Steal from motor vehicle 1,426.0 663.5 1,401.0 651.5 1,181.0 551.8 Steal from person 16,087.0 383.2 10,476.0 246.2 9,949.0 231.7 Steal from person 384.0 178.7 183.0 85.1 171.0 79.9 Malicious damage to 51,195.0 1,219.4 57,330.0 1,347.4 59,305.0 1,381.4 property Malicious damage to 2,550.0 1,186.4 2,771.0 1,288.5 2,933.0 1,370.4 property Possession and/or use of 8,483.0 201.9 10,210.0 239.9 10,486.0 244.2 drugs Possession and/or use of 266.0 123.8 372.0 172.9 366.0 171.0 drugs Offensive conduct or 3,847.0 91.6 5,026.0 118.1 5,181.0 120.7 language Offensive conduct or 204.0 95.0 328.0 152.5 454.0 212.1 language PCA 14,352.0 241.8 14,503.0 340.8 12,694.0 295.7 PCA 830.0 386.2 777.0 362.8 709.0 331.3

Perceptions of community safety State Respondents to the NIPS survey were asked to rate their feelings of safety during the day and night both at home and out walking in their local area. Perceptions of safety walking alone at night, although still considered to be the least safe of the four situations, has shown an improvement in 2007 with a mean agreement score of 2.9 (1=very unsafe, 4=very safe). Pressure As in previous surveys, perceptions of safety at night continued to be lower than safety during the day. Feelings of safety walking alone at night has consistently been rated as the least safe of the four situations presented. The results show that after a spike in the number of respondents feeling very unsafe in 2003 (24%), the proportion of respondents feeling very unsafe in 2007 halved to the lowest level of any survey year (12%). Overall, perceptions of safety improved since 1997, with (29%) of respondents feeling very safe in 2007, a (7%) increase on 1997 figures.

Graph: Safety Walking Alone at Night

Source: SSC NIPS

Safety in the public domain State Almost (31%) of respondents to the 2007 NIPS survey indicated that there were specific places that they felt unsafe in their local area. The most commonly cited places where people felt unsafe were local laneways, train stations and local parks. Pressure The specific public places where people feel unsafe are explored in the NIPS survey. Survey respondents who indicated that there were local places where they felt unsafe were asked to specify these places. The difficulty in comparing these results across years is that in the 1997 and 2000 surveys respondents were not prompted for answers, whereas in the most recent surveys respondents were given the list of options to select their responses. Consequently the 2003 and 2007 figures for each location are significantly higher. Similar trends were observed in the 2007 and 2003 surveys. The ranking of locations was almost identical with laneways continuing to be the most common location for respondents to feel unsafe. Concerns regarding personal safety for most locations has dropped since the 2003 survey (outside pubs being the exception), with the biggest changes occurring in car park safety (15% improvement), and local parks (10% improvement). Interestingly shopping centres were ranked as areas of high concern in the 1997 and 2000 surveys, while in the two most recent surveys shopping centres have received the lowest proportion of respondents citing them as an area of concern.

Table: Where do we feel unsafe?

1997 2000 2003 2007

Feel Unsafe Feel Unsafe Feel Unsafe Feel Unsafe Local Laneways 15.6% 16.7% 71.7% 69.0% Train Stations 4.9% 28.0% 70.9% 66.5% Local Parks 11.6% 19.1% 67.4% 57.0% Local Car Park 8.9% 7.3% 63.0% 47.5% Outside Pubs 14.7% 13.8% 47.0% 47.5% Local Public Transport 20.1% 4.1% 50.4% 44.3% Local Shopping Centre 22.8% 25.2% 40.4% 32.9% Total Respondents 224 246 230 158

Source: SSC NIPS 2007

When the data above is analysed by age group, Pageit shows 12 that the highest levelCopyright of concern© 2009 Sutherland is from Shirethose Council 55 to Page 13 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council 64 year olds regarding local laneways (72%), followed by 40 to 54 year olds regarding train stations (71%). The BOCSAR data indicates that males between the age of 20 and 29 are most likely to be victims of crime in the Shire, with the majority being victims of assault (non-domestic violence related).

Domestic violence and child protection State Statistics from BOCSAR indicate that in 2006, just over a third of reported assaults in the Sutherland LGA were domestic violence related. In the St. George-Sutherland area, 886 ADVOs were granted in the same year. Pressure While the rate of domestic violence assaults is lower than that of Sydney as a whole, Sutherland Shire still has an unacceptably high incidence of domestic violence particularly when coupled with consideration of the number of unreported assaults. When children are involved, domestic violence is a child protection issue - they may be direct or indirect victims of physical or psychological abuse. Alcohol is a significant contributor to the incidence of domestic violence, with (41%) being alcohol related. The Courts grant AVOs to protect people from future acts of violence. While the order itself does not give a criminal record, the breach of an AVO is an offence. After an increase in 2001 and 2002, the number of domestic violence ADVOs granted in the St George- Sutherland area has remained steady in the 2003 to 2006 period. The rate of ADVOs granted in the St George-Sutherland area is similar to the Sydney Statistical Division. Breach AVO offences have fluctuated marginally in the Shire during the period examined with a lower number of these offences committed in 2005.

Table: Domestic Violence

2003 2004 2005 2006

No. Rate per No Rate per No Rate per No Rate per 100,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 Assault - DV Related 13,811.0 328.9 1,406.0 332.9 13,856.0 325.6 14,484.0 337.4 Assault - DV Related 386.0 179.6 371.0 173.0 349 163.0 443.0 207.0 ADVOs granted 9,435.0 225.0 9,522.0 226.6 9,099.0 213.8 9,418.0 221.0 ADVOs granted* 883.0 201.5 860.0 195.2 817.0 163.0 184.7 886.0 Breach AVO 5,687.0 135.5 5,736.0 135.8 5,149.0 121.0 5,200.0 121.1 Breach AVO 254.0 118.2 209.0 97.4 162.0 75.3 242.0 112.5

* Data only available for the combined area of St George-Sutherland

Sydney SD Sutherland Shire

What is the response?

Indicators:

Rates of crime Perceptions of community safety Safety in the public domain Domestic violence and child protection Sutherland Shire Councils Rates of crime Council's Crime Prevention Plan (endorsed by the NSW Attorney General's Department) guides work undertaken to increase safety in the Shire. The Plan is a key component of the Community Plan 2006-2010 and the actions identified are designed to improve both crime prevention and social outcomes. Many of the strategies targeted in the Plan overlap the indicators identified in this Direction. Malicious damage and vandalism is a key issue in the Shire. Council actively removes graffiti and uses Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) and community education programs to reduce the overall level of graffiti and vandalism. Council has launched a campaign to increase community reporting of graffiti and vandalism incidents. Developed by the Vandalism Prevention Unit (comprised of Council, Sutherland and Miranda Local Area Commands of the NSW Police Representatives), the 'Come Clean' campaign rewards persons providing information leading to criminal proceedings against a person found guilty of damage to Council property. The State Plan includes targets for reducing crime in NSW, including:

1. Reducing household property crimes by 15% by 2016 2. Reducing violent crimes against persons by 10% by 2016.

Indicators:

1. Reducing household property crimes by 15% by 2016 2. Reducing violent crimes against persons by 10% by 2016.

The NSW Crime Prevention Framework, launched in 2008, sets out to achieve the goals set in the State Plan by refocussing, strengthening and coordinating activities at the state and local level which aim to reduce crime levels, deter criminal activities, increase community safety, and minimise the occurrence of antisocial behaviour. Perceptions of community safety Safety in the public domain Informing and engaging the community in crime prevention initiatives acts to reduce the fear of crime and promote community cohesion. A program of community safety audits as well as crime and security risk analyses of all Council owned and managed facilities is used to identify practical strategies for increasing safety in each location. In early 2008, safety audits in Cronulla and Woronora Heights resulted in 103 recommendations being implemented by Council, while 13 site visits to community facilities have produced 33 actioned recommendations. In partnership with the NSW Police, Council owns and monitors the Shiresafe Street Camera Program. This program is designed to deter, detect and investigate anti-social behaviour, vandalism and graffiti, property damage and crimes against the person as part of Council's Crime Prevention Plan. Council works closely with Sutherland and Miranda Liquor Accords, NSW Police and local businesses to reduce the impact of alcohol related crime on our community. Licensee forums, drink spiking prevention and youth safety programs are designed to address these issues. Alcohol-free zones in Cronulla were extended in 2006 to include additional public streets and car parks along the beachfront. Support is given to licensed premises to improve the safety of women and ensure safe transport options. Domestic violence and child protection Council works closely with community organisations, Police and local courts to provide a better coordinated response to domestic violence and improve safety for families. The Domestic Violence Pro-Active Support Service (DVPASS) provides support and services to victims of domestic violence in the period immediately following police intervention. It is a joint project of Sutherland Local Area Command, Sutherland Shire Family Services and the Southern Sydney Domestic Violence Court Assistance Scheme, partially funded by Council through a grant from the NSW Attorney General's Department Crime Prevention Division. The project has recently been expanded across the Sutherland LGA. After a review of the state domestic violence strategy in 2007, the Violence Prevention Coordination Unit was established within the Office for Women's Policy, NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet. The Unit is responsible for coordinating responses to domestic and family violence from all levels of government and is currently developing a strategic framework separate to the NSW Crime Prevention Framework.

AWhat harmonious is communitythe indicator? based on respect and responsibility, where everybody is made to feel welcome and valued

What is the indicator?

Indicators:

Socio-economic diversity Immigration and settlement patterns in Sutherland Shire Cultural and linguistic diversity Language groups other than English Changes in age structure Noise complaints Aircraft Noise What is the indicator? Socio-economic diversity is measured in a number of ways, primarily through the five yearly Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) Socio - Economic Index of Disadvantage (SEIFA). Measures are not comparable over time but within the same period can be compared to State, SSROC Region and other Local Government Areas (LGAs). It is important to understand that a high score here reflects lack of disadvantage rather than high advantage. A low score shows disadvantage. Immigration and settlement patterns in the Sutherland Shire are determined through Department of Immigration and Citizenship - Settlement databases. It identifies permanent arrivals to St George and Sutherland Shire Regions by country of birth and migration stream .The information shows the number and proportion of the population that settled in the Shire between 2003 and 2007. Indicative figures are drawn from the Commonwealth Department of Immigration and Citizenship database. Those arriving from New Zealand have not been included in these figures and there may also be a number of migrants who did not indicate where they were settling and therefore "unknown" figures are not capturing all settlers in the Shire. Cultural and linguistic diversity (CALD) of the Shire's population, is determined by the ABS Census of Population and Housing 2006. Trends are derived by comparing Census data from 1996, 2001 and 2006. Comparisons are also made between the proportion of CALD residents in Sutherland Shire and the Sydney Statistical Division. Language groups other than English are measured by analysis of Australian Bureau of Statistics - Census of Population and Housing data for Sutherland Shire LGA. Trends are derived by comparing Census data from 1996, 2001 and 2006. Comparisons are made between the proportion of non english speaking residents in Sutherland Shire and the Sydney Statistical Division. Change in age structure is an indicator, which when compared to previous years shows significant demographic change. The ABS Census of Population and Housing 2006 shows change in Sutherland Shire across the range of population age groupings between 2001 and 2006. Comparisons to the Sydney Statistical Division are also drawn from ABS. Noise Complaints are received by Council, assessed and actions undertaken where required under the provisions of the NSW Protection of the Environment Operations Plan Act (POEO 1997). The data collated identifies key sources of noise pollution. Aircraft Noise data is measured by Air Services Australia. Between 50dBA and 70dBA noise can impact on health causing annoyance, anxiety, irritability, stress and increased risk of heart disease. Exposure to noise levels above 70dBA can lead to hearing impairment (Prasher 2007). The N70 value measured by Air Services Australia is a value of the average daily number of aircraft noise events whose maximum noise level (LAmax) equals or exceeds 70dBA.

What is happening?

Indicators:

Socio-economic diversity Immigration and settlement patterns in Sutherland Shire Cultural and linguistic diversity Language groups other than English Changes in age structure Noise complaints Aircraft Noise What is happening? Socio - economic diversity State The Shires overall Index score was 1083.8. It is important to understand that a high score here reflects lack of disadvantage rather than high advantage. A low score shows disadvantage.

Table: SEIFA Index Sutherland Shire compared to NSW

2006

Sutherland Shire SSROC Region NSW 1083.8 1032.7 1050.0

Source: ABS Socio - Economic Index for Areas 2006

Woronora Heights shows the highest SEIFA rank within the Shire at (1146) and Caringbah (1021), the lowest compared to the overall Shire SEIFA figure of (1083.8).

Table: SEIFA Index Sutherland Shire suburbs by Quartile 2006

2006 SEIFA Quartiles Suburbs in Sutherland Shire LGA 1021 - 1146.0

Caringbah ,Kurnell, Miranda, Jannali, Sutherland, Kirrawee, Gymea, Sylvania - Kangaroo Point 1 2 * 1083.8 Cronulla, Bundeena - Maianbar ,Heathcote - Waterfall, Sylvania Waters - Taren Point, Menai - Sandy Point, Engadine - Sutherland Yarrawarrah, Loftus, Shire LGA Woolooware - Burraneer, Caringbah South, Oyster Bay, Woronora, Bangor, Como, Yowie Bay, Barden Ridge - Lucas 3 Heights, Kareela, Gymea Bay, Illawong, Alfords Point, Lilli Pilli - Dolans Bay, Bonnet Bay, Grays Point, Woronora Heights 4

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics SEIFA 2006

Pressure Compared to the SSROC Region, Sutherland Shire ranked well above the region as a whole. Sutherland

Indicators:

Socio-economic diversity Immigration and settlement patterns in Sutherland Shire Cultural and linguistic diversity Language groups other than English Changes in age structure Noise complaints Aircraft Noise What is happening? Socio - economic diversity State The Shires overall Index score was 1083.8. It is important to understand that a high score here reflects lack of disadvantage rather than high advantage. A low score shows disadvantage.

Table: SEIFA Index Sutherland Shire compared to NSW

2006

Sutherland Shire SSROC Region NSW 1083.8 1032.7 1050.0

Source: ABS Socio - Economic Index for Areas 2006

Woronora Heights shows the highest SEIFA rank within the Shire at (1146) and Caringbah (1021), the lowest compared to the overall Shire SEIFA figure of (1083.8).

Table: SEIFA Index Sutherland Shire suburbs by Quartile 2006

2006 SEIFA Quartiles Suburbs in Sutherland Shire LGA 1021 - 1146.0

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics SEIFA 2006

Pressure Compared to the SSROC Region, Sutherland Shire ranked well above the region as a whole. Sutherland Shire has a higher Socio Economic Index of Areas (1083.8) compared to NSW (1050). Sutherland Shire has scored higher than NSW in both the 2001 and 2006 SEIFA. When compared to other Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the Sydney Metropolitan Area, the Shire ranked 13th out of a total 43 councils. Of the 31 small areas or suburbs within Sutherland Shire the index shows a diverse range within the LGA. Differences between suburbs in Sutherland Shire are apparent. Changes in the quartile in which suburbs are ranked will give an indication over time of the relative socio-economic characteristics between areas over time.

Immigration and Settlement patterns in the Shire State Overall, (68.8%) of the Shire's overseas born population arrived before 1991, and comprise long term established migrant communities such as the Italian and Greek communities. A further (10.8%) of Shire residents born overseas arrived during or after 2001. Between March 2003 and April 2008, 2,294 people from more than 20 countries have settled in Sutherland Shire. These residents are new arrivals. The majority (23%), were from the United Kingdom, followed by individuals from China totalling (14%). Immigration continues to be predominantly from the United Kingdom and China, South Africa, Philippines, India and USA. Pressure In the Sydney Statistical Division (54.3%) of the population arrived before 1991 and (17.9%) arrived after 2001. By comparison Sutherland Shire has a lower proportion - (7.9%) less new arrivals in than in the Sydney Statistical Division. People from a total of 25 counties have settled in the Shire since 2003. The majority, 1,274 people arriving during this period have been family stream arrivals, followed by a substantial number of skills based migrants. Humanitarian entrants have totalled 42. Of those, 14 humanitarian entrants were from Sudan and a further 28 people from a range of other countries. Currently the newer communities settling in Sutherland Shire are Thai and Indian families.

Cultural and linguistic diversity State Overall, (16.6%) of the Shire's population were born overseas, and (9.1%) were from a non-English speaking background.

Table: Country of Birth - Top 10 overseas birthplaces ranked for 2006 Time series 2006 & 2001

2006 2001

Country Number % Number % United Kingdom 9,264 4.6 10,016 5.0 New Zealand 3,249 1.6 3,369 1.7 China 1,336 0.7 1,070 0.5 Italy 1,217 0.6 1,371 0.7 Greece 1,127 0.6 1,171 0.6 South Africa 1,123 0.6 1,022 0.5 Egypt 904 0.4 953 0.5 Germany 877 0.4 897 0.4 Philippines 761 0.4 736 0.4 India 717 0.4 661 0.3 Total (OS) Born 33,671 16.6 34,420 17.0 Australia 158,253 78.2 158,966 78.6

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of population and Housing 2006 and 2001

Overall, (16.6%) of the Shire's population were born overseas, and (9.1%) were from a non-English speaking background, compared with (31.8%) and (24%) respectively Page 18 for the Sydney Copyright Statistical © 2009 Division. Sutherland The Shire Council Page 19 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council predominant non-English speaking country of birth in Sutherland Shire was China. Between 2001 and 2006 the main increase in the proportion of residents born overseas included those Shire has a higher Socio Economic Index of Areas (1083.8) compared to NSW (1050). Sutherland Shire has scored higher than NSW in both the 2001 and 2006 SEIFA. When compared to other Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the Sydney Metropolitan Area, the Shire ranked 13th out of a total 43 councils. Of the 31 small areas or suburbs within Sutherland Shire the index shows a diverse range within the LGA. Differences between suburbs in Sutherland Shire are apparent. Changes in the quartile in which suburbs are ranked will give an indication over time of the relative socio-economic characteristics between areas over time.

Cultural and linguistic diversity State Overall, (16.6%) of the Shire's population were born overseas, and (9.1%) were from a non-English speaking background.

Table: Country of Birth - Top 10 overseas birthplaces ranked for 2006 Time series 2006 & 2001

2006 2001

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of population and Housing 2006 and 2001

Overall, (16.6%) of the Shire's population were born overseas, and (9.1%) were from a non-English speaking background, compared with (31.8%) and (24%) respectively for the Sydney Statistical Division. The predominant non-English speaking country of birth in Sutherland Shire was China. Between 2001 and 2006 the main increase in the proportion of residents born overseas included those residents born in China, followed by those from South Africa, Philippines and India. During this period the proportion of residents born in the United Kingdom, Italy and New Zealand decreased. It will be increasingly important to ensure that services for older people include bilingual staff and language aides particularly for older residents from established language groups such as Greek and Italian and new migrants under the family stream program. Residents who are ageing and are from non-English speaking backgrounds will frequently convert to their home or first language as they age. Awareness of cultural practices is important in building links between communities ensuring appropriate services are provided and in promoting social cohesion.

Language groups other than English State According to the 2006 Census (10.5%) of residents spoke a language other than English compared to (29.3%) of the Sydney Statistical Division. (85.7%) of the Shire's population speak English only. The top five most common language groups other than English are Greek, Cantonese, Arabic, Italian and Mandarin. The highest non-English speaking group from the general population are from Greek backgrounds, this group has been settled for some time. The largest proportion of newly arrived non-english speaking residents - those arriving in the last five years, are from the Chinese community. Pressure Data from the Commonwealth Department of Immigration and Citizenship identifies that within the last five years, approximately 400 New Arrivals under the family stream and humanitarian programs in Sutherland Shire have low English proficiency. Residents from Greek backgrounds were ranked the highest group of non-English speakers in 2001, this remains unchanged. Of the newer arrivals the largest proportion of non-English speaking residents are from the Chinese community. Between 2001 and 2006 proportion of those who speak a language other than English at home has increased for Mandarin, Spanish and Macedonian speakers, while the number of Italian speakers at home has decreased.

Table: Top seven Languages spoken at home 2001 - 2006 (Persons aged 5 years and over)

2006 2001

Language Number % Number % Change 2001 - 2006 English 173,427 174,635 -1,208 Greek 3,871 1.9 3,799 1.9 72 Chinese 3,799 1.6 2,786 1.4 1,013 Cantonese 1,976 1.0 1,973 1.1 3 Mandarin 1,147 0.6 813 0.4 334 Arabic 1,956 1.0 2,005 1.0 -49 Italian 1,916 0.9 2,159 1.1 -243 Spanish 1,052 0.5 893 0.4 159 Non English Total 21,163 10.5 20,629 10.2

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing 2006 and 2001

Changes in age structure State ABS Census of Population and Housing 2006 data shows that the age groups that are increasing in Sutherland Shire are the 60 + year olds. In Sutherland Shire the proportion is currently (18.1%). ABS Census of Population and Housing 2006 data shows that the age groups that are declining are the 5 - 11 years age group and the 25 - 34 years age group. The proportion of residents in the 25 - 34 years age group is (13.2%). Page 18 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 19 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Graph: Change in age structure residents born in China, followed by those from South Africa, Philippines and India. During this period the proportion of residents born in the United Kingdom, Italy and New Zealand decreased. It will be increasingly important to ensure that services for older people include bilingual staff and language aides particularly for older residents from established language groups such as Greek and Italian and new migrants under the family stream program. Residents who are ageing and are from non-English speaking backgrounds will frequently convert to their home or first language as they age. Awareness of cultural practices is important in building links between communities ensuring appropriate services are provided and in promoting social cohesion.

Table: Top seven Languages spoken at home 2001 - 2006 (Persons aged 5 years and over)

2006 2001

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing 2006 and 2001

Graph: Change in age structure

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2006 Census of Population and Housing (Enumerated)

Pressure Sutherland Shire has proportionally more (18.1%) 60+ year olds than the Sydney Statistical Division (16.7%). The proportion of residents aged 60+ years has increased since the Census of Population and Housing 2001. By the next Census, many more people will move into the next age group 70 - 84 years. In the Sutherland Shire (13.3%) of the population are now in the "Baby Boomer" 50 - 59 year old age group. As this group ages, there will be a significantly higher proportion of people over 60 years of age in Sutherland Shire. The pressure of a large proportion of residents over 60 years of age will significantly impact the Shire in a variety of ways discussed throughout this report. ABS Census of Population and Housing 2006 data shows that the age groups that are declining are the 5 - 11 years age group and the 25 - 34 years age group. The proportion of residents in the 25 - 34 years age group is (13.2%); lower than the Sydney Statistical Division (15.3%) for this group. The decline and potential impact on the community of middle aged families leaving the Shire will reduce the local employment base, reduce the likelihood of workers being available for provision of goods and services, and to run small businesses. School enrolments will decline and the Shire will have less diversity in the makeup of its community. Ensuring a balance in the age range of the community aids social cohesion and prosperity. The increase in the proportion of older people in the Shire is one of the most significant for the Shire over the coming years. Appropriate planning for childrens' services, to ensure that families can access childcare will be essential as baby boomers retire and the number of workers decreases. Ensuring that parents with children can join the workforce will be critical. Challenges to ensure equitable provision of services to younger families and young people and the availability of resources they require enabling them to participate in the community will be an issue in future.

Table: Age Distribution of Population in the Sutherland Shire Time series 1996 - 2006 LGA

2006 2001 1996

Age Total % Total % Total % 0 - 4 13,094 6.4 12,984 6.3 13,295 6.8 5 - 14 26,523 13.0 28,418 13.9 27,854 14.3 15 - 19 14,313 7.0 14,347 7.0 13,640 7.0 20 - 44 69,611 34.2 74,087 36.4 73,329 37.7 45 - 64 51,996 25.5 47,749 23.5 42,771 22.0 65 + 26,755 13.1 24,618 12.1 22,494 8.6 Other (OS) Visitors 832 0.4 931 0.4 712 0.3 Total 203,124 203,089 194,105

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics Census of Population and Housing 2006

Noise Complaints State and Pressure The number of noise complaints during 2007/08 has halved from the previous reporting year. The most marked decline was associated with animals (i.e. barking dogs). Complaints regarding domestic sources of noise pollution such as the playing of loud music, use of grass mowers, leaf blowers continue to decline but noise from commercial/industrial sources continue to increase and be a major area of nuisance.

Graph: Noise Complaints by Type 1996 to 2008

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

Aircraft Noise State There are three flight paths over Kurnell used by jet aircraft when landing and taking off from Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (G, H and I). During 2007-2008 there were 289 aircraft movements on average per day using the southern flight paths. Page 20 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 21 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Graph: Aircraft Flight Paths I, H and G 2006 2001 1996

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics Census of Population and Housing 2006

Graph: Noise Complaints by Type 1996 to 2008

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

Graph: Aircraft Flight Paths I, H and G

Source:

Daily N70 Value for Kurnell 2007- 08 During 2007-2008 the average daily number of aircraft noise events that equalled (LAMax) or exceeded 70dBA was 58 a decline of four events from 2006/07.

Graph: Daily N70 Values at Kurnell

Source: Air Services Australia

Pressure The number of aircraft movements over flight paths G,H and I has increased over the past two years with 31 2006 2001 1996

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics Census of Population and Housing 2006

Graph: Noise Complaints by Type 1996 to 2008

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008 Source:

Aircraft Noise Daily N70 Value for Kurnell 2007- 08 During 2007-2008 the average daily number of aircraft noise events that equalled (LAMax) or exceeded State 70dBA was 58 a decline of four events from 2006/07. There are three flight paths over Kurnell used by jet aircraft when landing and taking off from Sydney Graph: Daily N70 Values at Kurnell Kingsford Smith Airport (G, H and I). During 2007-2008 there were 289 aircraft movements on average per day using the southern flight paths.

Graph: Aircraft Flight Paths I, H and G

Source: Air Services Australia

Pressure The number of aircraft movements over flight paths G,H and I has increased over the past two years with 31 additional aircraft movements occurring on average per day. The main increase of aircraft movements has occurred on flight path I (25) and flight path G (14).

Graph: Average Daily Jet Aircraft Movements Flight Paths G,H,I 2002 to 2008 (Source Air Services Australia)

The Western most flight path (I), is used by jets departing from the southern runway (16 R) flying over the Kurnell sand hills. On average, there were 114 daily movements during 2007/08, an increase of 16 from 2006/07. The average daily range was between 91 and 154 aircraft movements in 2007/08. The central flight path (H) is used by overflight arrivals flying over Boat Harbour and Silver Beach on the Kurnell peninsula. On average, there were 129 daily movements during 2007/08, a decrease of eight from 2006/07. The average daily range was between 81 and 169 aircraft movements. Flight Path G departs from runway 16L, flying south over Botany Bay Heads. On average, there were 46 daily movements during 2006/07, an increase of four from 2006/07. The average daily range was between 35 and 65 aircraft movements. Daily Average N70 Kurnell The daily N70 events measured at Kurnell by Air Services Australia has declined on average by ten events in the past two years. In addition to peak noise events, a lack of respite from aircraft noise can have negative health impacts on residents. Respite from jet aircraft noise is measured as a 60 minute period when no jet movements occur. Between July and October 2007/08 the average daily respite from aircraft noise per month ranged from 45% to 55%. From October 2007 to July 2008 the greatest respite occurred along flight path H ranging between 43% to 73%. In contrast flight paths I and G showed a decline in respite from aircraft noise during the same period ranging from 27% to 58%.

Graph: Average Daily respite Aircraft Noise additional aircraft movements occurring on average per day. The main increase of aircraft movements has occurred on flight path I (25) and flight path G (14).

Graph: Average Daily Jet Aircraft Movements Flight Paths G,H,I 2002 to 2008 (Source Air Services Australia)

Source: Air Services Australia

Graph: Average Daily respite Aircraft Noise

Page 24 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 25 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council additional aircraft movements occurring on average per day. The main increase of aircraft movements has occurred on flight path I (25) and flight path G (14).

Graph: Average Daily Jet Aircraft Movements Flight Paths G,H,I 2002 to 2008 (Source Air Services Australia)

Source: Air Services Australia

Graph: Average Daily respite Aircraft Noise

Source: Air Services Australia

Complaints During 2007/08, Sydney Air Traffic Services recorded 296 complaints from the Sutherland Shire regarding aircraft noise, a decrease of six from 2006/07. The main source of complaints were registered from Jannali (94), Kurnell (84), Bundeena (31), Caringbah (24) and Cronulla (21).

Graph: Recorded complaints vs complainants

Source: Air Services Australia The high number of complaints, from the Jannali area was generated from one to two complainants. In comparison Kurnell ranged on average five complainants but peaked with 26 complainants in April 2007. The high number of complainants at Kurnell in April coincided with reduced respite from aircraft noise.

What is the response?

Indicators:

Immigration and Settlement patterns in the Shire Response Settlement patterns in Sutherland Shire, like all other areas change as new waves of migrants and humanitarian entrants change due to global conditions. Encouraging diverse communities to get to know one another increases perceptions of safety and promotes intergenerational and intercultural cohesion. Council is a Refugee Welcome Zone, and actively supports the refugee and new arrival community through support in activities such as art and photography exhibitions at Hazlehurst Regional Gallery and Art Centre, Annual Community Services Grant programs, provision of community facilities for Settlement Services at Gymea. Council has provided a workshop on waste management and recycling for the Sudanese community in response to an identified need. Council will continue with similar initiatives in line with the Strategic Plan and the access and equity component of the annual Management Plan.

Cultural and linguistic diversity Response Community development services and settlement support is provided through local community based organisations providing services for CALD migrants and refugees. Sutherland Shire Council also works with community organisations to support Harmony Day, Refugee Week and provides Fiesta to engage and showcase the multicultural community. Council provides professional support to Gymea Community Aid and Information Service - Settlement Services and provides data and statistics for the development of funding submissions and service plans. Council works closely with Gymea Settlement Service for new arrivals to strengthen the service network for new arrivals in the first five years of settlement. Council conducts quarterly citizenship ceremonies for migrants wishing to become citizens of Australia.

Page 26 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 27 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Language groups other than English Response Increasing numbers of local aged care facilities are making provision for residents who do not speak English. It is anticipated that demand for bilingual workers and services for older people in particular, will increase. Sutherland Shire Council will continue to lobby all tiers of government to ensure that bilingual staff are employed at services for older people thorough the Ageing Well in Sutherland Shire strategy. Council is reviewing its current practices in regard to provision of services to residents who have English as a second language or who do not speak English and is developing guidelines for language aides. Council officers trained to be language aides have been engaged to assist with enquiries as needed. Mandarin and Cantonese languages are available. Council also uses the Telephone Interpreter Service (TIS) an interpreter service which is free for Local Government; information about language aides and TIS is available on Council's webpage.

Table: Use of Sutherland Shire Council Language Aides 2002/2003 - 2007/2008

2002/3 2003/04 2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08

25 7 17 7 6 6

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

Changes in age structure Large demographic population shifts create very positive social impacts along with many challenges. A multi facetted approach to meet these challenges and to harness the opportunities provided is required as impacts on services, facilities and community resources and cohesion arise. A focus on intergenerational activity and opportunity will ensure equity and involvement of diverse population groups in community life. It is essential to educate the broader community, government departments and community organisations to know about the significant social impacts that will be experienced as a result of this demographic phenomenon. The Federal Government has responded raising awareness of issues pertaining to ageing, undertaking planning and research and preparing for the impact from demographic shift on services and Australian society. Similarly the NSW State government has undertaken the 2030 Summit. Sutherland Shire Council has developed a strategy to take the organisation and the community forward through THE AGEING WELL IN SUTHERLAND SHIRE strategy - a ten year plan to address issues of ageing in the Shire. Issues of Housing, Transport, Health, Participation, Care and Support have been considered and a variety of pressures have been identified, including the economic impacts balancing the provision of services with reduced rate income. Council is encouraging individuals to care for themselves, plan for their future, and make decisions which will enable them to have a good quality of life in the longer term. Council is transferring this knowledge to local services and government agencies and will formulate polices and develop services which will meet the emerging needs of higher numbers of older residents over the coming years. Council will continue to lobby and inform partner agencies and the State and Federal government of the specific needs of the most disadvantaged along with all residents to ensure that planners and service providers have accurate information about local needs. Council has undertaken research in regard to satisfaction levels around Council's Long Day Care centres, Family Day Care scheme and Out of School Hours Care. Viability of child care services will be an important issue over coming years, as child care patterns change. It is essential that women of working age are able to continue to work as older people leave the workforce.

Page 26 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Under the POEO Act, a person creating an 'offensive Page noise'27 can be served Copyright a notice © 2009 by Council Sutherland requiring Shire Council them Language groups other than English Response Increasing numbers of local aged care facilities are making provision for residents who do not speak English. It is anticipated that demand for bilingual workers and services for older people in particular, will increase. Sutherland Shire Council will continue to lobby all tiers of government to ensure that bilingual staff are employed at services for older people thorough the Ageing Well in Sutherland Shire strategy. Council is reviewing its current practices in regard to provision of services to residents who have English as a second language or who do not speak English and is developing guidelines for language aides. Council officers trained to be language aides have been engaged to assist with enquiries as needed. Mandarin and Cantonese languages are available. Council also uses the Telephone Interpreter Service (TIS) an interpreter service which is free for Local Government; information about language aides and TIS is available on Council's webpage.

Table: Use of Sutherland Shire Council Language Aides 2002/2003 - 2007/2008

2002/3 2003/04 2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08

25 7 17 7 6 6

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

Noise Response Education In response to the noise issues raised during 2007/08 responsible pet ownership talks were conducted at local schools. Council offers the hire or sale of citronella collars, which discourages dogs from barking. Under the POEO Act, a person creating an 'offensive noise' can be served a notice by Council requiring them to cease the noise. The Development Assessment Process Council applies conditions to development consents that minimise impacts from traffic noise, eg. locating bedrooms away from busy streets, enforcing buffers between residential and industrial zones. Provisions are included in the Sutherland Shire Local Environmental Plan 2006 that address noise and vibration issues pertaining to developments situated adjacent to major roads or railway lines.

Page 28 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 29 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Language groups other than English Response Increasing numbers of local aged care facilities are making provision for residents who do not speak English. It is anticipated that demand for bilingual workers and services for older people in particular, will increase. Sutherland Shire Council will continue to lobby all tiers of government to ensure that bilingual staff are employed at services for older people thorough the Ageing Well in Sutherland Shire strategy. Council is reviewing its current practices in regard to provision of services to residents who have English as a second language or who do not speak English and is developing guidelines for language aides. Council officers trained to be language aides have been engaged to assist with enquiries as needed. Mandarin and Cantonese languages are available. Council also uses the Telephone Interpreter Service (TIS) an interpreter service which is free for Local Government; information about language aides and TIS is available on Council's webpage.

Table: Use of Sutherland Shire Council Language Aides 2002/2003 - 2007/2008

2002/3 2003/04 2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08

25 7 17 7 6 6

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

PEOPLE DIRECTION 3 Noise

Response AWhat healthy andis activethe communityindicator? with appropriate activities and services for all stages of the life cycle Education In response to the noise issues raised during 2007/08 responsible pet ownership talks were conducted at local schools. Council offers the hire or sale of citronella collars, which discourages dogs from barking. What is the indicator? Under the POEO Act, a person creating an 'offensive noise' can be served a notice by Council requiring them Indicators:

Participation in sport and recreation Increase in use of Councils' playing fields (No longer collected) Increase in percentage of open space due to zoning (No longer collected) Rate of increase in organised sport Physical activity Involvement in sport and leisure activities (No longer collected) Rate of increase in non organised activities (i.e; walking) School travel (new indictor) Major causes of death Immunisation rate Incidences of asthma Mental health Dementia rates for women (No longer collected) Mortality rates for women (No longer collected) Dementia rates Mortality rates Wellness - Lack of physical activity Rate of breast cancer screening (No longer collected) Rate of visits to GPs compared to other LGAs Total expenditure on Community Services per head of population compared to similar Councils Smoking rates Carers What is the indicator? Participation in sport and recreation is measured through a comparison of the frequency of involvement of residents in sporting activity. The data is derived from the Sutherland Shire Council Neighbourhood and Participation Interaction Survey (SSC NIPS) conducted each four years between 1997 and 2007. Rate of increase in organised sport is measured through data captured by Sutherland Shire Council's Sport and Recreation Unit provided annually by sporting associations. This data covers the number of registered players in the top five organised summer and winter sports using playing fields in the Shire. Physical Activity is measured through a comparison of self reports from data derived from SSC NIPS 1997-07 conducted each four years. Respondents were asked about their activity levels in a variety of areas. Data is derived from SSC NIPS 2007, responses to the question "In the last two weeks, how often did you do any vigorous exercise which made you breathe harder of puff and pant?" and "In the last two weeks, how often have you walked continuously for at least ten minutes either for recreation exercise or to get to or from places?". School travel data is derived from SSC NIPS 2007 where a new series of questions for households with school aged children was introduced on travel to school. The question "How do you generally travel to primary/high school during fine weather". This is a new indicator. No comparative data is available at this stage however trend data on exercise undertaken by school aged children can be compared in future years. Rate of increase in non organised activities (i.e.; walking) is measured from data derived through a comparison of self reports on the frequency of involvement in non organised sports and the frequency of involvement in vigorous exercise from SSC NIPS 1997 - 2007. Changes over time in the proportion of respondents indicating vigorous exercise and/or continuous walking daily or every second day, indicates the population's level of physical activity. Major causes of death data has been obtained from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Mortality data and population estimates, Centre for Epidemiology and Research, NSW Department of Health. The Report of the

Page 28 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 29 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council NSW Chief Health Officer provides data on cardiovascular disease deaths by LGA, Burden of disease Avoidable deaths by LGA and Burden of disease Deaths from all causes by health area. Additional data was sourced from NSW Central Cancer Registry reports 2001 - 2005, All Cancer Age Standardised Mortality Rates for Sutherland LGA and Age Standardised Incidence Rates for Sutherland LGA. Immunisation rates data is derived the Australian Childhood Immunisation Register (ACIR) and is available for all divisions of general practice. The register provides comparative data on rates of childhood immunisation and changes in rates over time for fully immunised children up to 1 year of age. Incidence of asthma indicators utilise NSW Department of Health data on South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Health Service area (SESIAHS), Current asthma by year, by gender and persons aged 16 years and over, NSW, 1997-07. Mental health is measured from data derived from the NSW Population Health Survey 2007 (HOIST). Data showing high and very high psychological distress in SESIAH services for males, females and persons aged 16 years and over is compared to urban, rural and NSW, data for 2007. SSC NIPS 1997-07 provides a comparison of self reports to the statement "In the last month I have been emotionally able to enjoy my usual activities." Comparisons of the levels of agreement to this statement over time show trends in emotional wellbeing. Dementia rates for women (no longer collected) Mortality rates for women (no longer collected) Dementia rates data was sourced from Access Economics for Alzheimer's Australia, Dementia estimates and projections, NSW and its regions 2005. NSW Health provides data on this condition for the population in South East Sydney and Illawarra Area Health Service Area and shows Mortality rates data was sourced from the 2006 NSW Chief Health Officer Report Burden of disease - Deaths from all causes by health area. Carers undertaking unpaid care of family members have been identified through the Australian Bureau of Statistics Census of Population and Housing 2006, responses to the question "In the last two weeks did the person spend time providing unpaid care, help or assistance to family members or others because of a disability, a long term illness or problems related to old age?". (Persons aged 65 years and over) (Enumerated data). This indicator does not include people caring for children. It is the first time that this information has been collected Wellness - Lack of physical activity indicators include data from the SSC NIPS 1997 - 2007 based on responses to the question "In the last two weeks, how often have you walked continuously for at least ten minutes either for recreation, exercise or to get to and from places?". Were used to determine rates of those who do not walk and change to this response over time. Further data regarding self report rates of overweight and obesity, alcohol use and life expectancy provide indicators on wellness when compared to NSW averages. From the Chief Health Officer Report 2006, Health related behaviours - Physical activity by Division of general practice, Overweight and obesity by Division of general practice, Alcohol use by health area and Life expectancy at Birth by health area. Rate of visits to GPs compared to other LGAs is determined using data from the 2004 - 05 National Health Survey. The complex health system of private GPs, public and private hospitals and allied health services make it difficult to determine rates of visits to GPs and hospitals in the LGA. National rates and average rates are available through research conducted by the Australian institute of health and wellbeing and various surveys such as the BEACH surveys conducted with GPs annually. Comparison of the total number of effective full time equivalent GPs per head of population give an indicator of the ratio of doctors to patients in Sutherland Division of General Practice compared to Australia. compared to similar Councils is sourced from the NSW Department of Local Government Comparative Information on NSW Local Government Councils 2006/07. Data sources for this indicator include Council financial reports: special schedule no 1, expenses from continuing operations - community services and education: administration, family day care, child care, youth services, other families and children, aged and disabled, migrant services, Aboriginal services, other community services and education. Smoking rates indicators were derived from the NSW Summary Report on Adult Health by Health Area 2007. NSW Department of Health data regarding smoking in the South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Health Area (SESIAH) is compared to NSW rates. The South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Health Service, Current smoking by age, persons aged 16 years and over, NSW, 2007 provides an indicator of smoking rates of specific age groups within the SESIAHS compared to NSW rates. Note: These figures do not specifically identify smoking trends in Sutherland Shire LGA, Pagehowever 30 includes the LGA. Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 31 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council NSW Chief Health Officer provides data on cardiovascular disease deaths by LGA, Burden of disease Avoidable deaths by LGA and Burden of disease Deaths from all causes by health area. Additional data was sourced from NSW Central Cancer Registry reports 2001 - 2005, All Cancer Age Standardised Mortality Rates for Sutherland LGA and Age Standardised Incidence Rates for Sutherland LGA. Immunisation rates data is derived the Australian Childhood Immunisation Register (ACIR) and is available for all divisions of general practice. The register provides comparative data on rates of childhood immunisation and changes in rates over time for fully immunised children up to 1 year of age. Incidence of asthma indicators utilise NSW Department of Health data on South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Health Service area (SESIAHS), Current asthma by year, by gender and persons aged 16 years and over, NSW, 1997-07. Mental health is measured from data derived from the NSW Population Health Survey 2007 (HOIST). Data showing high and very high psychological distress in SESIAH services for males, females and persons aged 16 years and over is compared to urban, rural and NSW, data for 2007. SSC NIPS 1997-07 provides a comparison of self reports to the statement "In the last month I have been emotionally able to enjoy my usual activities." Comparisons of the levels of agreement to this statement over time show trends in emotional wellbeing. Dementia rates for women (no longer collected) Mortality rates for women (no longer collected) Dementia rates data was sourced from Access Economics for Alzheimer's Australia, Dementia estimates and projections, NSW and its regions 2005. NSW Health provides data on this condition for the population in South East Sydney and Illawarra Area Health Service Area and shows Mortality rates data was sourced from the 2006 NSW Chief Health Officer Report Burden of disease - Deaths from all causes by health area. Carers undertaking unpaid care of family members have been identified through the Australian Bureau of Statistics Census of Population and Housing 2006, responses to the question "In the last two weeks did the person spend time providing unpaid care, help or assistance to family members or others because of a disability, a long term illness or problems related to old age?". (Persons aged 65 years and over) (Enumerated data). This indicator does not include people caring for children. It is the first time that this information has been collected Wellness - Lack of physical activity indicators include data from the SSC NIPS 1997 - 2007 based on responses to the question "In the last two weeks, how often have you walked continuously for at least ten minutes either for recreation, exercise or to get to and from places?". Were used to determine rates of those who do not walk and change to this response over time. Further data regarding self report rates of overweight and obesity, alcohol use and life expectancy provide indicators on wellness when compared to NSW averages. From the Chief Health Officer Report 2006, Health related behaviours - Physical activity by Division of general practice, Overweight and obesity by Division of general practice, Alcohol use by health area and Life expectancy at Birth by health area. Rate of visits to GPs compared to other LGAs is determined using data from the 2004 - 05 National Health Survey. The complex health system of private GPs, public and private hospitals and allied health services make it difficult to determine rates of visits to GPs and hospitals in the LGA. National rates and average rates are available through research conducted by the Australian institute of health and wellbeing and various surveys such as the BEACH surveys conducted with GPs annually. Comparison of the total number of effective full time equivalent GPs per head of population give an indicator of the ratio of doctors to patients in Sutherland Division of General Practice compared to Australia. compared to similar Councils is sourced from the NSW Department of Local Government Comparative Information on NSW Local Government Councils 2006/07. Data sources for this indicator include Council financial reports: special schedule no 1, expenses from continuing operations - community services and education: administration, family day care, child care, youth services, other families and children, aged and disabled, migrant services, Aboriginal services, other community services and education. Smoking rates indicators were derived from the NSW Summary Report on Adult Health by Health Area 2007. NSW Department of Health data regarding smoking in the South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Health Area (SESIAH) is compared to NSW rates. The South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Health Service, Current smoking by age, persons aged 16 years and over, NSW, 2007 provides an indicator of smoking rates of specific age groups within the SESIAHS compared to NSW rates. Note: These figures do not specifically identify smoking trends in Sutherland Shire LGA, however includes the LGA. Reports from the Chief Health Officer 2006 provide an indicator of rates of daily or occasional smoking for over 16 year olds in Sutherland Shire compared to NSW rates together with rates of Illness attributed to smoking, smoking by age and rates of smoking during pregnancy for Sutherland Shire LGA and compared to NSW rates.

What is happening?

Indicators:

Rate of increase in organised sport State Between 2003 and 2007 the data collected by Sutherland Shire Council Sport and Recreation Unit via the Summer and Winter Sports Participation Survey indicated there has been a growth in the number of participants in most organised sports within the Sutherland Shire. Soccer and Oztag memberships have had the most pronounced growth, with membership increasing by (34%) and (33%) respectively. Other major sports including cricket, netball, Aussie rules and junior league have also experienced growth in participation. Pressure Competition sport conducted in Sutherland Shire caters to both local residents and those from adjoining

Page 32 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 33 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council regions. Players may be members of multiple codes and associations. When looking at SSC NIPS 2003 and 2007 and comparing it to player numbers it appears that while there are increased memberships and regions. Players may be members of multiple codes and associations. When looking at SSC NIPS 2003 and increased use of playing fields locally, those increased numbers of participants are not involved any more 2007 and comparing it to player numbers it appears that while there are increased memberships and regions.frequently Players than in may past be years. members of multiple codes and associations. When looking at SSC NIPS 2003 and 2007increased and comparinguse of playing it to fields player locally, numbers those it appears increased that numbers while there of participants are increased are memberships not involved anyand more increasedfrequently usethan of in playingpast years. fields locally, those increased numbers of participants are not involved any more frequently than in past years. Physical activity StatePhysical activity Physical activity StateResponses to SSC NIPS 2007 shows that (66.8%) of respondents undertook vigorous exercise at least each two weeks, and (89.3%) of respondents walked continuously for at least ten minutes in the last two weeks Responses to SSC NIPS 2007 shows that (66.8%) of respondents undertook vigorous exercise at least each Stateprior to the survey period. Responsestwo weeks, andto SSC (89.3%) NIPS of 2007 respondents shows that walked (66.8%) continuously of respondents for at least undertook ten minutes vigorous in the exercise last two at weeksleast each twopriorTable: weeks, to the Overall surveyand (89.3%) activity period. ofprofile respondents 1997 - 2007 walked continuously for at least ten minutes in the last two weeks prior to the survey period. Table: Overall activity profile 1997 - 2007Overall Activity Profile Table: Overall activity profile 1997 - 2007 Overall Activity2007 Profile 2003 2000 1997 Overall Activity Profile Walking2007 89.3% 2003 91.5% 2000 80.5% 1997 77.7% Vigorous exerciseWalking2007 89.3%66.8% 2003 91.5%63.3% 2000 80.5%55.6% 1997 51.9%77.7% OrganisedVigorous sporting activitiesexerciseWalking 89.3%66.8%48.2% 91.5%63.3%47.1% 80.5%55.6%25.9% 51.9%77.7%30.2% Non-organisedOrganisedVigorous sporting activitiesexercise 87.3%66.8%48.2% 86.6%63.3%47.1% 73.7%55.6%25.9% 73.2%51.9%30.2% Non-organisedLeisureOrganised activities sporting outside activities home 87.3%97.0%48.2% 86.6%98.1%47.1% 73.7%99.4%25.9% 73.2%97.6%30.2% Non-organisedLeisure activities sporting outside activities home 87.3%97.0% 86.6%98.1% 73.7%99.4% 73.2%97.6% Source: SSC NIPS 2007. Leisure activities outside home 97.0% 98.1% 99.4% 97.6% Source: SSC NIPS 2007. ComparingSource: SSC SSC NIPS NIPS 2007. 2007 to 2003 figures, there has been an increase of (3%) in the proportion of respondents who undertook vigorous exercise. This indicates that the proportion of the community Comparing SSC NIPS 2007 to 2003 figures, there has been an increase of (3%) in the proportion of undertaking vigorous activity is increasing. Respondents to SSC NIPS 2007 and 2003 were asked whether respondents who undertook vigorous exercise. This indicates that the proportion of the community Comparingand how often SSC they NIPS had 2007 walked to continuously2003 figures, for there at least has beenten minutes an increase in the of last (3%) two in weeks. the proportion Comparing of these undertaking vigorous activity is increasing. Respondents to SSC NIPS 2007 and 2003 were asked whether respondentstwo surveys showswho undertook that the proportion vigorous exercise. of those Thiswho indicateswalked has that declined the proportion slightly from of the (91.5%) community in 2003 to and how often they had walked continuously for at least ten minutes in the last two weeks. Comparing these undertaking(89.3%) in 2007. vigorous The activityproportion is increasing. of those who Respondents had walked to daily SSC in NIPS the two 2007 weeks and prior2003 to were the surveyasked whetherperiod two surveys shows that the proportion of those who walked has declined slightly from (91.5%) in 2003 to hadand increasedhow often bythey almost had walked (20%) continuouslysince 1997 and for (5%)at least since ten 2003.minutes in the last two weeks. Comparing these two(89.3%) surveys in 2007. shows The that proportion the proportion of those of thosewho had who walked walked daily has indeclined the two slightly weeks fromprior (91.5%)to the survey in 2003 period to (89.3%)had increased in 2007. by Thealmost proportion (20%) since of those 1997 who and had (5%) walked since daily 2003. in the two weeks prior to the survey period had increased by almost (20%) since 1997 and (5%) since 2003. Rate of increase in non organised activities (i.e.; walking) StateRate of increase in non organised activities (i.e.; walking) Rate of increase in non organised activities (i.e.; walking) StateA comparison of data from SSC NIPS 2007 and 2003 shows there has been a slight increase in the proportion of respondents who indicated that they are "often" involved in non organised sport and a slight A comparison of data from SSC NIPS 2007 and 2003 shows there has been a slight increase in the Statedecrease in the proportion of those who "never" participate in non organised sporting activities. Aproportion comparison of respondents of data from who SSC indicated NIPS 2007 that andthey 2003 are "often" shows involvedthere has in been non organiseda slight increase sport and in the a slight Pressureproportiondecrease in of the respondents proportion whoof those indicated who "never"that they participate are "often" in involvednon organised in non sportingorganised activities. sport and a slight decrease in the proportion of those who "never" participate in non organised sporting activities. Pressure(40%) more respondents said that they were involved in non organised sport as a form of activity than those involved in organised sport. Additional focus on planning and maintaining walking paths, trails and areas to (40%) more respondents said that they were involved in non organised sport as a form of activity than those enablePressure pursuit of these types of activities will be required, particularly to support good health among ageing involved in organised sport. Additional focus on planning and maintaining walking paths, trails and areas to residents.(40%) more respondents said that they were involved in non organised sport as a form of activity than those involvedenable pursuit in organised of these sport. types Additional of activities focus will onbe planningrequired, and particularly maintaining to support walking good paths, health trails among and areas ageing to enableresidents.Table: pursuit Involvement of these in types Sport of and activities Leisure will Activities be required, particularly to support good health among ageing residents. Table: Involvement in Sport and Leisure Activities Organised Non-organised Table: Involvement in Sport and Leisure Activities Leisure OrganisedSport Non-organisedSport Leisure OrganisedSport Non-organisedSport 2007 2003 2007 2003 2007Leisure 2003 Sport Sport Often 35.5%2007 35.6%2003 2007 64.7% 2003 63.8% 76.0%2007 75.3%2003 SometimesOften 35.5%2007 6.6% 35.6%2003 8.3% 2007 14.9%64.7% 2003 16.0%63.8% 14.7%76.0%2007 17.5%75.3%2003 InfrequentlySometimesOften 35.5% 6.6%6.1% 35.6% 8.3%3.2% 14.9%64.7% 7.7% 16.0%63.8% 6.8% 14.7%76.0% 6.3% 17.5%75.3% 5.3% InfrequentlySometimesNever 58.8% 6.6%6.1% 52.7% 8.3%3.2% 14.9%12.7% 7.7% 16.0%13.2% 6.8% 14.7% 2.9%6.3% 17.5% 1.5%5.3% Total RespondentsInfrequentlyNever 58.8% 6.1% 518 52.7% 3.2% 531 12.7% 7.7% 518 13.2% 6.8% 531 2.9%6.3% 518 1.5%5.3% 531 Total RespondentsNever 58.8% 518 52.7% 531 12.7% 518 13.2% 531 2.9% 518 1.5% 531 Source: Sutherland Shire Council NIPS 2007. Total Respondents 518 531 518 531 518 531 Source: Sutherland Shire Council NIPS 2007.

Walked continuously

2007 2003 2000 1997 Every Day 46.6% 41.6% 32.1% 27.8% Every Second Day 27.3% 29.6% 28.1% 28.8% Weekly 13.0% 15.4% 15.9% 15.9% Once a Fortnight 2.4% 4.9% 4.4% 5.2% Don't Undertake 5.5% 7.3% 18.1% 19.7% Can't Undertake 3.9% 1.1% 1.4% 2.6% Total Respondents 518 531 502 503

Vigorous exercise

2007 2003 2000 1997 Every Day 15.9% 16.2% 12.2% 11.5% Every Second Day 27.8% 24.5% 19.1% 22.5% Weekly 17.8% 17.3% 18.7% 14.5% Once a Fortnight 5.3% 5.3% 5.6% 3.4% Don't Undertake 23.8% 31.6% 39.0% 42.3% Can't Undertake 7.2% 5.1% 5.4% 5.8% Total Respondents 518 531 502 503

Source: SSC NIPS 2007.

School travel State State Indicators in SSC NIPS 2007 show that respondents with school aged children who walk to school comprise (18.2%) high school students; and (34.3%) primary school students. (3%) of secondary students and (2%) primary students ride a bike to school. More than (40%) of high school students and (73.5%) of primary school students were driven to school. Multiple modes could be selected in response to this question.

Table: Method of school travel

Method of School Travel

High School Primary School Car 40.4% 73.5% Walk 18.2% 34.3% Bike 3.0% 2.0% Public transport 60.6% 11.8% Other 2.0% 2.0% Total respondents 99 102

Source: SSC NIPS 2007.

Pressure Comparative data will be available for SSC NIPS 2011.

Major causes of death State The 'all causes' death rate in the Sutherland Shire at ages 0 to 74 years at 236.3 deaths per 100,000 Page 34 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 35 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council population is notably lower than for Sydney (273.4) and Australia (290.4). The major causes for premature mortality are cancer and diseases of the circulatory system. Residents from South Eastern Sydney Area Health die mainly from circulatory diseases (40%) and cancer (28%), which together account for approximately (70%) of all deaths in the area. Cardio vascular disease deaths of persons of all ages in Sutherland Shire 2003 and 2004 occurred at a standardised rate of 80.8 per 100,000. This figure is lower than for NSW state average. Cardiovascular disease Table: Cardiovascular disease deaths for Sutherland Shire

Pressure Cardiovascular disease mortality reduced from 3,446 deaths in 1996 to 2,641 deaths in 2005. Although cardiovascular disease deaths are still higher among males compared to females, the gap is closing. From 1996 to 2005, death rates for cardiovascular disease reduced by 6.2%, per year in Sutherland LGA. Two thirds of all cardiovascular disease deaths in SESIH are attributable to heart disease (48.7%) and stroke (27.7%).

Cancer State On average, 2,230 SESIH residents die from cancer each year, and 6,230 new cases are diagnosed. The most common types of cancer in SESIH males are lung, prostate and bowel cancer; for females the most common are breast, lung and bowel cancer. Pressure The NSW Central Cancer Registry reports, that for 2001-05, all cancer age standardised mortality rates for Sutherland Shire LGA were lower than for the rest of NSW, at 169.9 per 1 million compared to 203.3 for South East Sydney Illawarra Health Service Area and 177.1 for NSW. Cancer maps show that mortality caused by cancer in the Sydney Statistical Division from 1998 to 2002 in Sutherland Shire LGA for males and females falls in the mid range area and is in line with NSW average rates. There were no areas on the 1998 - 2002 cancer maps which identified a significant higher mortality rate than the state average.

Page 34 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 35 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Immunisation State Data from the Australian Childhood Immunisation Register (ACIR) show that (97.0%) of children in Sutherland Shire Division of General Practice in 2002 were fully immunised at age one, above the Australian proportion of 94.2%. Pressure A comparison of reports for the past nine years, show a steady increase in the rate of fully immunised children in Sutherland Shire.

Incidence of Asthma State The NSW Population Health Survey 2007 shows that NSW asthma rates affect slightly more than 1 in 10 adults (10.5%) had current doctor-diagnosed asthma, South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Health area rates exceeded this figure and were (12.1 %).

Table: South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra, current asthma by year, persons aged 16 years and over, NSW 2003 - 2007

South East Sydney and Illawarra NSW

Year Males % Females % Persons % Males % Females % Persons % 2003 9.6 10.8 10.1 9.1 12.6 10.9 2004 9.4 10.1 9.7 8.9 11.9 10.4 2005 9.9 10.7 10.3 8.8 12.0 10.4 2006 12.1 10.1 11.1 9.9 11.8 10.9 2007 12.1 12.0 12.1 8.9 11.8 10.5 2008 Forecast - - - 9.3 12.1 10.7

Source: New South Wales Population Health Survey 2007 (HOIST). Centre for Epidemiology and Research, NSW Department of Health Note: This data is calculated within a confidence level of 95%

Pressure The table above demonstrates that the rate of current asthma for the South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Health areas now exceeds NSW rates and has done so in both 2006 and 2007. Females are diagnosed with asthma at a higher rate than males.

Mental health State For the South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra area the rate of high and very high psychological distress was (10.5%) compared to (12.1%) for NSW and (11.9%) for urban areas in NSW. Rates of mental health were lower in South Eastern Sydney than for the State and urban areas. For Sutherland Shire rates of mental illness were higher for women than for men.

Table: High and very high psychological distress by area health service, Persons aged 16 years and over, NSW, 2007

Page 36 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 37 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Immunisation State Data from the Australian Childhood Immunisation Register (ACIR) show that (97.0%) of children in Sutherland Shire Division of General Practice in 2002 were fully immunised at age one, above the Australian proportion of 94.2%. Pressure A comparison of reports for the past nine years, show a steady increase in the rate of fully immunised children in Sutherland Shire.

Table: South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra, current asthma by year, persons aged 16 years and over, NSW 2003 - 2007

South East Sydney and Illawarra NSW

Source: New South Wales Population Health Survey 2007 (HOIST). Centre for Epidemiology and Research, NSW Department of Health Note: This data is calculated within a confidence level of 95%

Table: High and very high psychological distress by area health service, Persons aged 16 years and over, NSW, 2007

Prevalence %

Area Health Service Males % Females % Persons % South Eastern Sydney and 9.0 11.8 10.5 Illawarra Urban 10.8 12.8 11.9 Rural 11.2 14.2 12.7 NSW 10.9 13.2 12.1

Source: New South Wales Population Health Survey 2007 (HOIST). Centre for Epidemiology and Research, NSW Department of Health Note: This data is calculated within a confidence level of 95%

SSC NIPS 2007 asks participants to comment of their emotional health by responding to the question "In the last month I have been emotionally able to enjoy my usual activities". More than (90%) of respondents indicated that they 'Agreed' or 'Strongly Agreed' with this statement. Of significance is the proportion of respondents who 'Disagreed' and 'Strongly Disagreed', this (7%) of respondents would indicate poor mental health.

Table: Emotional ability to undertake activities

Emotionally able to enjoy usual activities

2007 2003 Strongly Disagree 0.70% 1.30% Disagree 6.20% 6.80% Neither Agree nor Disagree 1.50% 2.60% Agree 70.30% 73.80% Strongly Agree 20.50% 14.30% Total Respondents 516 531

Source: Sutherland Shire Council NIPS 2007 and 2003.

Pressure In NSW in 2007, just over one in ten adults (12.1%) had high or very high levels of psychological distress. The proportion of adults with high or very high levels of psychological distress in NSW has not varied significantly since 1997. Mental health disorders account for (20%) of all disabilities, with anxiety disorders, as a group, the single most common mental disorder. There is an emerging trend of increased alcohol and other drug use complicating mental health disorders. Depressive disorders account for (2%) of all disability burdens. Although suicide is the leading cause of death in the 15 - 44 years age group, as a percentage of all causes of death, suicide is less prevalent in the Sutherland Shire LGA than for NSW. A comparison of responses to SSC NIPS 2007 and 2003 demonstrates trends and changes in the emotional wellbeing of a portion of the population. In regard to the statement - "In the last month I have been emotionally able to enjoy my usual activities", there was a decline in the proportion of respondents who 'Agreed' (- 3.5%) and a significant (6.2%) increase in those who 'Strongly Agreed'. Of those who both 'Agreed' and 'Strongly Agreed', the proportion of respondents totalled (90.8%). This figure is a strong indicator of good mental health and has increased slightly since the 2003 SSC NIPS (88.1%).The proportion of respondents reporting disagreement and strong disagreement with the statement has decreased by (1%) since 2003.

Dementia State Dementia estimates show that in 2008 in South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Area Health Service area Page 36 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council (SESIAHS) 14,360 or (1.2%) of the population are Page estimated 37 to be affected Copyright by dementia, © 2009 Sutherland comprising Shire Council5,620 (0.94%) males and 8,740 (1.45%) females. Prevalence %

Area Health Service Males % Females % Persons % South Eastern Sydney and 9.0 11.8 10.5 Illawarra Urban 10.8 12.8 11.9 Rural 11.2 14.2 12.7 NSW 10.9 13.2 12.1

Source: New South Wales Population Health Survey 2007 (HOIST). Centre for Epidemiology and Research, NSW Department of Health Note: This data is calculated within a confidence level of 95%

Table: Emotional ability to undertake activities

Emotionally able to enjoy usual activities

2007 2003 Strongly Disagree 0.70% 1.30% Disagree 6.20% 6.80% Neither Agree nor Disagree 1.50% 2.60% Agree 70.30% 73.80% Strongly Agree 20.50% 14.30% Total Respondents 516 531

Source: Sutherland Shire Council NIPS 2007 and 2003.

Dementia State Dementia estimates show that in 2008 in South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Area Health Service area (SESIAHS) 14,360 or (1.2%) of the population are estimated to be affected by dementia, comprising 5,620 (0.94%) males and 8,740 (1.45%) females. Pressure Dementia is not an inevitable part of the ageing process, but it is common as people age and is very common in frail older people. It is estimated that (6.6%) of persons over 65 years and (30.6%) in the 85 years and over age group are affected by some form of dementia. In 2004, dementia was among the ten leading causes of death for women, being (5.1%) of all female deaths in Australia. The SESIAHS figure is similar to the Sydney Statistical Division and has increased by (0.1%) since 2004. These figures show an increase in diagnosis of dementia among both males and females in the South East Sydney and Illawarra Health Service Area since 2004. The rate of growth for dementia differs between health service areas. South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Area Health Service ranks among the three slowest growth areas in regard to dementia in NSW. In regard to absolute numbers, however, South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Health Service area will continue to have one of the largest populations of people with dementia. Projections for dementia in the South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Health Service area in the next four years indicates that at 2012, 16,061 people or (1.30%) of the Area Health population will be diagnosed. Shire GPs report that "Estimates and projections of the reported incidence of dementia in the area reflect an alarming trend and of most concern is the 85+ year old group. With a prevalence rate of (30.2%), we can expect the raw numbers to more than double from 912 in 2004 to 1,848 in 2022." By 2050 the South Eastern Sydney Health Service Area is estimated to have 40,600 people with dementia. The most prevalent group of the population, the "Baby Boomers" will turn 80 in 2025; this is when a high proportion of people begin to experience dementia. Between 2000 and 2050, the number of people with dementia in Australia is expected to increase by (327%).

Mortality rates State The following table highlights that for the four years 2003-06, Sutherland Shire LGA had a consistently lower death rate compared to NSW and was similar to the adjoining Kogarah LGA; and lower than Bankstown LGA.

Table: Death rate for Sutherland Shire Local Government Area compared to NSW 2003 - 2006

Indirect standardised death rate

Year Sutherland Shire LGA Bankstown LGA Kogarah LGA NSW 2003 5.5 6.2 5.4 6.5 2004 5.4 6.1 5.6 6.5 2005 5.1 5.9 5.2 6.3 2006 5.0 6.1 4.9 6.1

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics November 2007

Pressure In Australia, the standardised death rate in 2006 was six deaths per 1,000 standard population and was the lowest on record. For NSW, the 2004 - 2006 standardised death rate was 6.1 deaths per 1,000 population. In the period 2000 to 2004 the lowest age adjusted death rates among health areas in NSW were in the South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Health Service. Male and female deaths were (13%) and (11%) respectively. SESIHS Area health reports show lower rates than the respective death rates for all NSW Health Areas, being 718.9 deaths per 100,000 compared to 811.0 per 100,000 for NSW. The following diagram shows the range of avoidable deaths by local government area across the state. Sutherland Shire falls within the lowest rates in NSW.

Chart: Potentially avoidable deaths by local government area persons aged under 75 NSW Page 38 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 39 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Pressure Dementia is not an inevitable part of the ageing process, but it is common as people age and is very common in frail older people. It is estimated that (6.6%) of persons over 65 years and (30.6%) in the 85 years and over age group are affected by some form of dementia. In 2004, dementia was among the ten leading causes of death for women, being (5.1%) of all female deaths in Australia. The SESIAHS figure is similar to the Sydney Statistical Division and has increased by (0.1%) since 2004. These figures show an increase in diagnosis of dementia among both males and females in the South East Sydney and Illawarra Health Service Area since 2004. The rate of growth for dementia differs between health service areas. South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Area Health Service ranks among the three slowest growth areas in regard to dementia in NSW. In regard to absolute numbers, however, South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Health Service area will continue to have one of the largest populations of people with dementia. Projections for dementia in the South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Health Service area in the next four years indicates that at 2012, 16,061 people or (1.30%) of the Area Health population will be diagnosed. Shire GPs report that "Estimates and projections of the reported incidence of dementia in the area reflect an alarming trend and of most concern is the 85+ year old group. With a prevalence rate of (30.2%), we can expect the raw numbers to more than double from 912 in 2004 to 1,848 in 2022." By 2050 the South Eastern Sydney Health Service Area is estimated to have 40,600 people with dementia. The most prevalent group of the population, the "Baby Boomers" will turn 80 in 2025; this is when a high proportion of people begin to experience dementia. Between 2000 and 2050, the number of people with dementia in Australia is expected to increase by (327%).

Table: Death rate for Sutherland Shire Local Government Area compared to NSW 2003 - 2006

Indirect standardised death rate

Year Sutherland Shire LGA Bankstown LGA Kogarah LGA NSW 2003 5.5 6.2 5.4 6.5 2004 5.4 6.1 5.6 6.5 2005 5.1 5.9 5.2 6.3 2006 5.0 6.1 4.9 6.1

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics November 2007

Chart: Potentially avoidable deaths by local government area persons aged under 75 NSW

Source: NSW Area Health Service 2005.

Wellness - lack of physical activity State Physical activity is an important factor in maintaining good health. National physical activity guidelines for adults recommend at least 30 minutes of moderate activity on most and preferably all days of the week. SSC NIPS 2007 illustrates the rate of response for questions about health and fitness. The proportion of respondents who indicated that they 'Didn't Exercise' gives an overall view of the proportion of those respondents who experience low levels of regular exercise and therefore a likelihood of poor health. (23.8%) of respondents have indicated that they 'Didn't Exercise'. A further indicator of poor health and wellbeing may be those SSC NIPS 2007 respondents who in the last 12 months 'never' participated in organised sport. The proportion of participants responding to this question has increased and is now (58.8%). SSC NIPS shows those who in the last 12 months reported that they 'never' participated in non organised sport, accounted for (12.7%) of respondents and leisure, (2.9%). Overweight and obesity data from NSW Health shows that in South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Health Service Area (41.1%) of the population fall into this category. The following table illustrates indicators for the entire South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Health area (SESIAHS). Male rates of overweight and obesity are significantly higher than for females.

Table: South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra, overweight and obesity by year, persons aged 16 years and over, NSW, 2003 - 2007

South East Sydney and Illawarra NSW

Year Males % Females % Persons % Males % Females % Persons % 2003 55.6 36.7 36.2 55.7 41.0 48.4 2004 53.0 34.3 37.4 56.2 40.5 48.4 2005 59.7 40.5 38.2 57.5 42.3 49.9 2006 54.0 42.1 39.7 57.4 43.3 50.4 2007 60.0 40.1 41.1 58.8 44.7 51.7 2008 Forecast - - 42.2 59.9 45.5 52.7

Source: New South Wales Population Health Survey 2007 (HOIST). Centre for Epidemiology and Research, NSW Department of Health. Note: This data is calculated within a confidence level of 95%

The following table illustrates that in 2007 in SESIAH the age groupings which were above NSW rates for obesity and overweight (56.4%) were 35 - 44 year olds, and the 65 - 74 year old age group which were (69.1%) and (64.0%) respectively. It should be noted that Sutherland Shire residents are within the SESIAHS catchment and that LGA data provided by Shire GPs indicate that rates in the LGA are lower overall than health area figures.

Chart: South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra, overweight and obesity by age, persons aged 16 years and over, NSW, 2007

Source: New South Wales Population Health Survey 2007 (HOIST). Centre for Epidemiology and Research, NSW Department of Health.

In 2007 for Sutherland Shire, self rated health assessment responses in SSC NIPS show that (50%) of respondents reported that their health was "good"' and (20.7%) indicated that their health was "excellent"'- a combined total of (71.5%). Pressure Page 40 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 41 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council To maintain health, moderate intensity activity on most days of the week for at least 30 minutes is recommended (ADHA 1999). The Chief Health Officer report NSW 2006 showed that residents in Sutherland South East Sydney and Illawarra NSW

Source: New South Wales Population Health Survey 2007 (HOIST). Centre for Epidemiology and Research, NSW Department of Health. Note: This data is calculated within a confidence level of 95%

Chart: South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra, overweight and obesity by age, persons aged 16 years and over, NSW, 2007

Source: New South Wales Population Health Survey 2007 (HOIST). Centre for Epidemiology and Research, NSW Department of Health.

In 2007 for Sutherland Shire, self rated health assessment responses in SSC NIPS show that (50%) of respondents reported that their health was "good"' and (20.7%) indicated that their health was "excellent"'- a combined total of (71.5%). Pressure To maintain health, moderate intensity activity on most days of the week for at least 30 minutes is recommended (ADHA 1999). The Chief Health Officer report NSW 2006 showed that residents in Sutherland Division of general practice had higher than average levels of physical activity. SSC NIPS trends since 1997 show the proportion of those indicating that they "don't"' or "can't" exercise has dropped by (17%) there has been a decrease of (7.8%) from (31.6%) in 2003 to (23.8%) in 2007. Respondents who in the last 12 months 'never' participated in organised sport has increased by (6%) from (52.7%) in 2003 to (58.8%) in 2007. This result however may be about the ageing community who may move from organised to non organised activities. The proportion of those who have not participated in non organised sport in the previous 12 months prior to the survey had decreased marginally by (0.5%) since 2003. NSW Health data shows that there has been a steady increase between 2003 and 2007 in the proportion of obese and overweight people in the health area. There has been a significant increase in the rate of obesity and overweight among males in South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Health area from (55.6%) in 2003 to (60%) in 2007, an increase of (4.4%). Female rates of obesity in SESIHS have increased during the same period from (36.7%) to (40.1%) an increase of (3.4%). In the 2007 NSW 2007 Summary Report on Adult Health by Health Area, just over eight in ten adults (81%) in NSW rated their health as excellent, very good, or good. The proportion of adults rating their health as excellent, very good, or good has decreased significantly since 1997 (85%). SSC NIPS self rated health reports show that since 2003 the proportion of respondents who reported that their health was "good" or "excellent" has increased by (1.1%) from a combined total of (70.4%) respondents to (71.5%). In NSW, life expectancy at birth data, shows that the longest life expectancy estimate of any health area is South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Area Health Service at 79.7 years for males; and 84.6 years for females. The life expectancy for NSW residents is estimated at 78.2 years for males and 83.3 for females.

Rate of visits to GPs compared to other LGAs State Sutherland Shire Division of General Practice reports that based on the Estimated Resident Population, (calculated on the average Estimated Resident Population as at 30 June 2003 and 30 June 2004), the rates of population per GP in Sutherland Division of General Practice were marginally higher than for New South Wales and Australia. Sutherland Shire has slightly lower levels of provision of GP services in the Division. Note: Shire GPs recognise rates change according to which population figure is used. Pressure The statistical local area of Sutherland Shire West is designated an area of workforce shortage and attracts incentives under the More Doctors for Outer Metropolitan Areas program. Thirty-four practices lie within the SLA of Sutherland Shire West.

Major Causes of Death State In the year ended 30 June 2003, the total number of deaths in the Sutherland Shire was 1,212. The crude death rate is 5.6, which is slightly less than for NSW as a whole at 6.0. Residents die mainly from circulatory diseases and cancer, which together account for approximately (70%) of all deaths. Diseases of the respiratory system comprised (8.7%) of all deaths, injury and poisoning (5.6%). Diseases of the nerves and sense organs (3.7%) are the fifth most common cause of death.

Table: Death before 75 years of age by major condition group and selected cause, Sutherland DGP, Sydney and Australia, 2002-02

Page 40 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 41 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Division of general practice had higher than average levels of physical activity. SSC NIPS trends since 1997 show the proportion of those indicating that they "don't"' or "can't" exercise has dropped by (17%) there has been a decrease of (7.8%) from (31.6%) in 2003 to (23.8%) in 2007. Respondents who in the last 12 months 'never' participated in organised sport has increased by (6%) from (52.7%) in 2003 to (58.8%) in 2007. This result however may be about the ageing community who may move from organised to non organised activities. The proportion of those who have not participated in non organised sport in the previous 12 months prior to the survey had decreased marginally by (0.5%) since 2003. NSW Health data shows that there has been a steady increase between 2003 and 2007 in the proportion of obese and overweight people in the health area. There has been a significant increase in the rate of obesity and overweight among males in South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Health area from (55.6%) in 2003 to (60%) in 2007, an increase of (4.4%). Female rates of obesity in SESIHS have increased during the same period from (36.7%) to (40.1%) an increase of (3.4%). In the 2007 NSW 2007 Summary Report on Adult Health by Health Area, just over eight in ten adults (81%) in NSW rated their health as excellent, very good, or good. The proportion of adults rating their health as excellent, very good, or good has decreased significantly since 1997 (85%). SSC NIPS self rated health reports show that since 2003 the proportion of respondents who reported that their health was "good" or "excellent" has increased by (1.1%) from a combined total of (70.4%) respondents to (71.5%). In NSW, life expectancy at birth data, shows that the longest life expectancy estimate of any health area is South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Area Health Service at 79.7 years for males; and 84.6 years for females. The life expectancy for NSW residents is estimated at 78.2 years for males and 83.3 for females.

Table: Death before 75 years of age by major condition group and selected cause, Sutherland DGP, Sydney and Australia, 2002-02

Variable Sutherland DGP Sydney

No. Rate No. Rate Circulatory system diseases 309 55 7428 71.1 Ischaemic hearth disease 181 32.2 4359 41.8 Cerebrovascular disease – stroke 52 9.2 1451 13.8 Cancer 592 105.4 11366 108.5 Cancer of the trachea, bronchus and lung 103 18.4 2347 22.6 Respiratory system diseases 102 18.2 1866 17.9 Chronic lower respiratory disease 65 11.6 1191 11.5 Injuries and poisonings 120 20.9 3077 27.1 Suicide 33 5.7 1101 9.6 Motor vehicle accidents 28 4.9 692 6.1 Other causes 208 37 5283 49.2 Diabetes mellitus 17 3 541 4.5

Source: Sutherland Shire Division of General Practice

Total expenditure on Community Services per head population compared to similar Councils State The NSW Department of Local Government provides an annual summary of funds expended by all Councils and compares Councils of similar size and characteristics by groups. This indicator measures the amount spent on community services per head of population. The formula used for this indicator is the total community services expenses divided by estimated resident population within Council boundaries. Sutherland Shire Council expended $47.24 per head of population on community services in 2006/07.

Table: Community services expenses per capita

Source: Sutherland Shire Division of General Practice

Table: Community services expenses per capita

Group Council 2004/05 2005/06 Variation 2006/07 Variation

$ $ % $ % 1 Sydney 12.11 70.08 478.9 83.22 18.7 2 Ashfield 17.41 19.99 14.8 23.02 15.2 Auburn 24.76 24.62 –0.6 24.26 –1.5 Botany Bay 84.43 87.15 3.2 63.1 –27.6 Burwood 31.49 39.19 24.4 41.04 4.7 Canada Bay 17.84 18.11 1.5 19.45 7.4 Hunters Hill 20.99 20.75 –1.1 24.15 16.4 Kogarah 17.47 41.47 137.4 21.73 –47.6 Lane Cove 68.09 70.19 3.1 75.24 7.2 Leichhardt 64.15 67.79 5.7 76.04 12.2 Manly 96.98 101.86 5 101.16 –0.7 Mosman 71.11 69.99 –1.6 66.38 –5.2 North Sydney 37.84 37.69 –0.4 36.37 –3.5 Pittwater 39.33 40.5 3 40.12 –0.9 Strathfield 17.09 15.4 –9.9 25.61 66.3 Waverley 102.45 119.12 16.3 130.67 9.7 Willoughby 85.22 83.8 –1.7 84.09 0.3 Woollahra 64.53 67.21 4.2 71.71 6.7 Group average 51.45 55.41 7.7 55.2 -0.4 3 Bankstown 22.43 23.47 4.7 23.08 -1.7 Blacktown 59.24 59.62 0.1 56.73 -4.8 Canterbury 58.36 59.85 2.6 59.49 -0.6 Fairfield 57.25 72.79 27.2 73.31 0.7 Holroyd 75.76 90.01 18.8 85.68 -4.8 Hurstville 26.97 31.39 16.4 34 8.3 Ku-ring-gai 32.13 29.41 -8.5 31.59 7.4 Marrickville 108.38 122.15 12.7 122.29 0.1 Parramatta 41.18 53.74 30.5 57.06 6.2 Randwick 14.74 22.63 53.5 29.79 31.7 Rockdale 12.55 16.25 29.4 11.53 -29 Ryde 14.28 15.66 9.7 18.09 15.5 Sutherland 43.29 45.71 5.6 47.24 3.4 Warringah 47.83 43.32 -9.4 44.17 2.1 Group average 44.2 48.83 10.5 49.31 1

Source: NSW Department of local Government Comparative Information on NSW Local Government Councils 2006/07

Pressure Sutherland Shire Council is below average group three expenditure on community services and has been slightly below each year since 2004/05. Group three Councils (into which Sutherland Shire Council falls) expended $49.31per capita in 2006/07. Between 2005/06 and 2006/07 there was a (3.4%) increase in 2005/06 expenditure on community services by Sutherland Shire Council. In 2006/07 (11.2 %) of all 152 Councils in NSW expended a similar amount to Sutherland Shire Council. Sutherland Shire Council expended $40.00 - $60.00 on community services;(46.7%) of all NSW Councils expended less than $40.00 per capita and (42.2%) expended more than $60.00 per capita. Some factors affecting this indicator include the number of community services staff employed, the population mix, the availability of funding, socioeconomic factors and Council policies.

Source: NSW Department of local Government Comparative Information on NSW Local Government Councils 2006/07

Smoking rates State The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) reports that results from the 2004/05 National Heath Survey indicates that smoking tends to be reported alongside other lifestyle risk factors. Adult smokers had generally higher levels of risky/high risk alcohol consumption, lower daily fruit and vegetable intake and lower levels of exercise, than ex-smokers and those who reported never smoking. According to the NSW Summary Report on Adult Health by Health Area 2007, just under one in five adults (18.5%), were current smokers. The proportion of adults who are current smokers has decreased significantly since 1997 (24%).The following table shows NSW Department of Health data regarding smoking in the South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Health Area (SESIAH) compared to NSW. The indicators show that the percentage of the population that is smoking is declining both in SESIAH and in NSW and that this health areas smoking rates are consistently slightly lower than the NSW rates. In 2007 SESIHA smoking rates were (17.4%) compared to NSW which was (18.6%).

Table: South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra, current smoking by year, persons aged 16 years and over, NSW, 2003-07

South East Sydney and Illawarra NSW

Year % persons % persons 2003 21.8 22.3 2004 19.7 20.9 2005 19.9 20.1 2006 16.6 17.7 2007 17.4 18.6 2008 Forecast - 18

Source: New South Wales Population Health Survey 2007 (HOIST). Centre for Epidemiology and Research, NSW Department of Health. Note: The indicator includes those who smoked daily or occasionally. The question used to define the indicator was: Which of the following best describes your smoking status: Smoke daily, Smoke occasionally, Do not smoke now, but I used to, I have tried it a few times but never smoked regularly, or I have never smoked? Note: This data is calculated within a confidence level of 95%

Pressure People who start smoking when they are young are more likely to smoke heavily, to become more dependent on nicotine and to be at increased risk of smoking-related illness or death (McDermott, Russell and Dobson 2002). Reports from the Chief Health Officer 2006 indicate that rates of daily or occasional smoking for over 16 year olds in Sutherland Shire are around (17%) or (3%) lower than the state average. Illness attributable to smoking in Sutherland Shire LGA 2003/04 - 2004/05 is significantly lower than the state and for Australia. The following table provides data for the entire SESIAH region and again, while it is inclusive of the LGA, is indicative of the larger area health region. It is significant that for this health area, in some age groups, the rate of smoking exceed NSW smoking rates. In particular rates of smoking that exceed NSW rates are evident in the following age ranges 16 - 24 years, 35 - 44 years, 55 - 64 years and 75 + year olds.

Table: South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra, current smoking by age, persons aged 16 years and over, NSW, 2007

Page 44 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 45 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council State The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) reports that results from the 2004/05 National Heath Survey indicates that smoking tends to be reported alongside other lifestyle risk factors. Adult smokers had generally higher levels of risky/high risk alcohol consumption, lower daily fruit and vegetable intake and lower levels of exercise, than ex-smokers and those who reported never smoking. According to the NSW Summary Report on Adult Health by Health Area 2007, just under one in five adults (18.5%), were current smokers. The proportion of adults who are current smokers has decreased significantly since 1997 (24%).The following table shows NSW Department of Health data regarding smoking in the South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Health Area (SESIAH) compared to NSW. The indicators show that the percentage of the population that is smoking is declining both in SESIAH and in NSW and that this health areas smoking rates are consistently slightly lower than the NSW rates. In 2007 SESIHA smoking rates were (17.4%) compared to NSW which was (18.6%).

Table: South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra, current smoking by year, persons aged 16 years and over, NSW, 2003-07

South East Sydney and Illawarra NSW

Year % persons % persons 2003 21.8 22.3 2004 19.7 20.9 2005 19.9 20.1 2006 16.6 17.7 2007 17.4 18.6 2008 Forecast - 18

Table: South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra, current smoking by age, persons aged 16 years and over, NSW, 2007 State The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) reports that results from the 2004/05 National Heath Survey indicates that smoking tends to be reported alongside other lifestyle risk factors. Adult smokers had generally higher levels of risky/high risk alcohol consumption, lower daily fruit and vegetable intake and lower levels of exercise, than ex-smokers and those who reported never smoking. According to the NSW Summary Report on Adult Health by Health Area 2007, just under one in five adults (18.5%), were current smokers. The proportion of adults who are current smokers has decreased significantly since 1997 (24%).The following table shows NSW Department of Health data regarding smoking in the South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Health Area (SESIAH) compared to NSW. The indicators show that the percentage of the population that is smoking is declining both in SESIAH and in NSW and that this health areas smoking rates are consistently slightly lower than the NSW rates. In 2007 SESIHA smoking rates were (17.4%) compared to NSW which was (18.6%).

Table: South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra, current smoking by year, persons aged 16 years and over, NSW, 2003-07

South East Sydney and Illawarra NSW

Year % persons % persons 2003 21.8 22.3 2004 19.7 20.9 2005 19.9 20.1 2006 16.6 17.7 2007 17.4 18.6 2008 Forecast - 18

Source: New South Wales Population Health Survey 2007 (HOIST). Centre for Epidemiology and Research, NSW Department of Health. Note: The indicator includes those who smoked daily or occasionally. The question used to define the indicator was: Which of the following best describes your smoking status: Smoke daily, Smoke occasionally, Do not smoke now, but I used to, I Source: have tried it a few times but never smoked regularly, or I have never smoked? Note: This data is calculated within a confidence level of 95%

Smoking during pregnancy significantly increases the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. In the three year period 2002-04 an average of (15.4%) of NSW mothers reported smoking during pregnancy. In Sutherland Pressure Shire LGA 2002 - 2004 smoking during pregnancy was less than half the state average. People who start smoking when they are young are more likely to smoke heavily, to become more dependent on nicotine and to be at increased risk of smoking-related illness or death (McDermott, Russell and Dobson 2002). Reports from the Chief Health Officer 2006 indicate that rates of daily or occasional smoking for over 16 year olds in Sutherland Shire are around (17%) or (3%) lower than the state average. Illness attributable to Carers smoking in Sutherland Shire LGA 2003/04 - 2004/05 is significantly lower than the state and for Australia. State The following table provides data for the entire SESIAH region and again, while it is inclusive of the LGA, is 10,827 or (7%) of women aged 15 years and over in Sutherland Shire provided unpaid assistance to a indicative of the larger area health region. It is significant that for this health area, in some age groups, the person with a disability in the two weeks leading up to the 2006 Census. This figure is significantly higher than rate of smoking exceed NSW smoking rates. In particular rates of smoking that exceed NSW rates are the total number of men 6,810, providing care for this group. Overall (10.8%) of the population over 15 years evident in the following age ranges 16 - 24 years, 35 - 44 years, 55 - 64 years and 75 + year olds. is a carer at least on a casual basis. This caring role does not include informal and unpaid childcare.

Table: South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra, current smoking by age, persons aged 16 years and over, NSW, Table: Unpaid assistance to a person with a disability, long term illness or old age 2007 (Persons aged 65 years and over) (Enumerated data)

Sutherland Shire Number Sutherland Shire % Sydney Statistical Division

Provided unpaid care 17634 10.8 9.8 Unpaid care provided 132761 81.6 79.1 Not Stated 12281 7.5 11.1 Total 162676 100 100

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing 2006, 2001, 1996 and 1991

Pressure Compared to Sydney Statistical Division at a rate of (9.8%), the Shire has higher rates of carers with (10.8%) Page 44 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council of the population caring for another person who is Page not a4 child.5 Carers may Copyright experience © 2009 additional Sutherland pressures Shire Council such as isolation and depression associated with the responsibilities and constraints of caring for others. Particular efforts are needed to ensure that carers receive support, social opportunities and respite to ensure Source:

Carers State 10,827 or (7%) of women aged 15 years and over in Sutherland Shire provided unpaid assistance to a person with a disability in the two weeks leading up to the 2006 Census. This figure is significantly higher than the total number of men 6,810, providing care for this group. Overall (10.8%) of the population over 15 years is a carer at least on a casual basis. This caring role does not include informal and unpaid childcare.

Table: Unpaid assistance to a person with a disability, long term illness or old age (Persons aged 65 years and over) (Enumerated data)

Sutherland Shire Number Sutherland Shire % Sydney Statistical Division

Provided unpaid care 17634 10.8 9.8 Unpaid care provided 132761 81.6 79.1 Not Stated 12281 7.5 11.1 Total 162676 100 100

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing 2006, 2001, 1996 and 1991

Pressure Compared to Sydney Statistical Division at a rate of (9.8%), the Shire has higher rates of carers with (10.8%) of the population caring for another person who is not a child. Carers may experience additional pressures such as isolation and depression associated with the responsibilities and constraints of caring for others. Particular efforts are needed to ensure that carers receive support, social opportunities and respite to ensure that they can look after their own health.

What is the response?

Indicators:

Participation in sport and recreation Increase in use of Councils' playing fields (No longer collected) Increase in percentage of open space due to zoning (No longer collected) Rate of increase in organised sport Physical activity Involvement in sport and leisure activities (No longer collected) Rate of increase in non organised activities (i.e; walking) School travel (new indictor) Major causes of death Immunisation rate Incidences of asthma Mental health Dementia rates for women (No longer collected) Mortality rates for women (No longer collected) Dementia rates Mortality rates Wellness - Lack of physical activity Rate of breast cancer screening (No longer collected) Rate of visits to GPs compared to other LGAs Total expenditure on Community Services per head of population compared to similar Councils Smoking rates Carers Participation in sport and recreation Sutherland Shire Council will continue to encourage frequent participation in organised sport and recreation, and will be actively promoting some level of participation for those who never or infrequently play, to promote better health. Council strongly supports associations and clubs to promote participation at all levels and ages. Participation will be strongly encouraged through Council's Marketing and Strategic Plans and the through the Ageing Well in Sutherland Shire Strategy. Rate of increase in organised sport Sutherland Shire Council assists by working with the sporting associations and clubs very closely to enhance the quality of existing facilities and investigating the use of new facilities. Council conducts two ground allocation meetings each year with all associations in attendance. These meetings aim to maximise use of playing fields. Council supports the development of veterans, seniors and women's sport by investigating additional playing field sites such as schools. Council's Sport and Recreation Unit is proposing to support the conduct of midweek night games for various sports to spread the use of playing fields over the whole week. Making sporting fields available for mid week activity also enables individuals unable to participate on weekends to participate. New codes of sport are developing - in particular, Oz tag. Environmental conditions and over use affect the quality and maintenance of playing fields. Council is investigating use of a range of synthetic playing surfaces on some fields. Unlike most other Councils Council does not charge schools for use of playing fields for schools based sporting competition. Physical activity Is encouraged for all and at all levels from elite sports to walking for half an hour on most days of the week. Public space planning and community program development provide opportunity for physical activity to support overall good health. Built and natural areas are maintained to promote activity. State and Federal government initiatives and grants assist in the development of facilities. Sutherland Shire Council will continue to seek funding to maintain and upgrade amenities to promote physical activity and will continue to work in partnership with stakeholders such as Shire GPs and health services to promote programs for groups and

Page 46 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 47 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council individuals. Rate of increase in non organised activity (eg; walking) Sutherland Shire Council will continue to encourage healthy activity through provision of safe pathways around centres, maintain and lobby for increased provision of cycleway and maintenance of existing natural areas and waking trails. Recognition of Cronulla Beaches in Bate Bay as a Surfing Reserve and discussion between Council and state government regarding Bate Bay foreshore area zoning recognises the activity and use of these areas for non organised activity ie; surfing and walking. School travel Measures of secondary and primary school students walking to school will be undertaken again in 2011, a comparison with the 2007 data will be undertaken. Major causes of death The major causes of premature death are related to lifestyle factors such as lack as exercise, smoking, poor nutrition and overuse of alcohol. Shire GPs focus on educating the community to focus on reducing excessive eating and over consumption of alcohol, ceasing smoking and increasing exercise. These four factors are the primary ways that people can continue to lead healthy lives as they age. Health services focus on reducing obesity and activity which lead to chronic disease such as diabetes, heart and circulatory conditions. Sutherland Shire Council in partnership undertakes a range of education, leisure, exercise and recreation activity with the aim of increasing residents' physical and mental health. Expos are conducted to inform residents of opportunities available to pursue primary health care, exercise and non organised activity in Sutherland Shire. Particular focus days encourage participation and involvement. World AIDS Day, Seniors' Week, The Disability Expo and Mind Matters seminars are conducted in partnership with local agencies, government departmental and community organisations in line with Council's key directions. Sutherland Shire Council is an active partnership with Sutherland Mental Health Unit, Shire GPs and Sutherland Hospital Diversity Health Committee. Caringbah Women's Health Centre provides an effective community based health service for local women, located in Council provided infrastructure, it is the only service of its type in Sutherland Shire providing holistic healthcare to women. Immunisation All immunisations registered by ACIR were undertaken by a general practitioner. Sutherland Council does not have a role in provision of childhood immunisation. In Sutherland Shire all immunisation is conducted by general practitioners, however Council continues to encourage families to immunise children entering care to minimise preventable disease in the community. Incidence of asthma NSW Health provides a range of education material for parents of children experiencing asthma and for adults to assist in their asthma management. Sutherland Shire Council continues to train childcare staff and provide asthma management for children enrolled in Council services and continues with a commitment to reduction of car emissions through implementation of key directions within Council's Strategic Plan. Mental health Commonwealth funding supports provision of limited free counselling sessions for patients with mental illness diagnosed by general practitioners. Shire GPs continue to promote Education for local GPs regarding treatment options for people with depression. Sutherland Hospital is currently re-developing facilities for patients experiencing mental health issues. Sutherland Division of mental health continues to collaborate with the Sutherland Shire Division of general practitioners to provide service delivery to people experiencing a range of mental health issues from anxiety through to long term disabilities through a range of programs. While suicide and mental health conditions are lower in Sutherland Shire than the state average, Council continues to support and resource the Sutherland Shire Suicide Safety Network to develop partnerships and a safety net for residents experiencing mental health issues. Key service providers such as SESIAHS health representatives, Sutherland Shire Division of General Practice, churches and local community based organisations such as Lifeline continue to work to promote resources, provide education, undertake research and run the Annual "Partnership Day" to showcase best practice in the provision of mental health services and programs which attracts over 100 people annually. Council also convenes an Access Sub - Committee to address the needs of people with disabilities. Council employs staff to work with members of the community with mental health needs. Page 48 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 49 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Council continues to encourage isolated residents living in remote peninsula areas to consider alternate, more centrally located housing closer to services and transport and to utilise the support of neighbours and friends. Dementia rates Dementia is a major determining factor in precipitating entry to residential care. At least (60%) of people in high care facilities and (30%) of people in low care facilities have dementia. Many more have an obvious cognitive impairment (90% high care; 54% low care). Council will continue to advocate for high care places in local aged care facilities with specialist dementia facilities. Mortality rates All levels of government, community organisations and individuals will need to maintain focus and support for increasing exercise, reducing smoking, encouraging nutritious meals and reducing alcohol consumption to achieve optimum health rates and ensure that the area's premature death rate remains at current lower than NSW rates. Council in partnership with local Shire GPs provides a GP referral program to Sutherland Leisure Centre for residents identified as at risk due to cardio vascular conditions. Sutherland Hospital provides a venue for residents to access recovery programs after cardio surgery to promote heath and wellbeing. Wellness - Lack of physical activity While the 2007 SSC NIPS survey shows that many respondents were engaged and involved in heath, social and leisure pursuits, it is important to ensure that the two out of ten less mobile people in the population who may experience barriers and "never" walk continuously for ten minutes for exercise or recreation are provided with additional supports to do so. Rate of visits to GPs compared to other LGAs Seeing a doctor is a very common health-related action in Australia: the 2004-05 National Health Survey shows that, over any two-week period, 23% of the population visited a doctor (ABS 2006). Further, administrative data from Medicare-Australia's universal health insurance system suggests that around 85% of the population see a doctor at least once in a year (Medicare Australia 2005).There are a total of 68 practices in the Sutherland Shire. Total expenditure of Community Services per head of population compared to similar Councils Sutherland Shire Council will continue to fund community services for Sutherland Shire in a balanced way. Council will continue its annual Community Services and Older Persons Community grants program. Council will also continue to seek additional grant funding from State and Federal governments to run specific programs in line with Council's various Strategic, Management, Community and Crime prevention Plans. It is anticipated that funding will be continued to support the Ageing Well in Sutherland Shire Strategy in future years. Smoking rates All Sutherland Shire Council facilities are smoke free zones in line with NSW Health policy. Council conducts an annual Healthy Ageing Expo which addresses issues of tobacco use through provision of information to older local residents. Sutherland Shire Council's Ageing Strategy - Ageing Well in Sutherland Shire encourages older people to give serious consideration to eliminating or reducing tobacco use as part of a multi faceted approach to ensuring a healthy independent life as a senior. Council's GP referral program offered at Sutherland Leisure Centre offers programs for rehabilitation and increased fitness to residents who may experience serious illness as a result of smoking NSW Health Promotion Unit services regularly promote World No Tobacco Day throughout SESIAH service area providing Quit Kits to encourage the cessation of smoking. Shire GPs focus on advising patients to reduce and eliminate smoking along with paying attention to better nutrition, exercise and reduction in alcohol use as one of the key factors to assist the community to improve health as people age.

AWhat strong community is the basedindicator? on networks of families, neighbourhoods, community groups and local businesses

What is the indicator?

Indicators:

Participation in community life Neighbourhood interaction Volunteering Quality of life/optimism Access to and use of community facilities (new indicator Domestic violence

Participation in community life is measured through trend data available in SSC NIPS 2007. Respondents were asked to rate their frequency of involvement in 12 listed clubs, groups and organisations. Changes in the proportion and frequency of participation in any groups over time are an indicator of participation in community life . Respondents were asked to indicate their levels of agreement to the following, "I have a supportive network of family and friends". The frequency of involvement and the type of involvement shows levels of participation in community life. Viewed over time this provides an indicator of more or less involvement. Neighbourhood interaction is demonstrated through responses to SSC NIPS 2007, 2003, 2000 and 1997. Responses to the questions "I have little to do with people in my neighbourhood", "I would ask a neighbour for help" and, "I trust those in my community". These responses indicate community connectedness, neighbourliness and trust. Changes over time can be measured by comparing the proportion of different responses to these questions for each four year period. Volunteering indicators are derived from comparison of Australian Bureau of Statistics Sutherland Shire LGA Census of Population and Housing 2006 data on Volunteering for an organisation or group compared to the Sydney Statistical Division for the same period. Further indicators are derived from SSC NIPS 2007 rates of responses to questions - "In the last 12 months, have you been involved in any organisations or groups on a voluntary basis?" and; "Over the last 12 months on average, how many hours a month did you spend volunteering?". These results can be compared over time to previous SSC NIPS results. Quality of life/optimism indicators can be derived again from responses to SSC NIPS 2007, 2003, 2000 and 1997 measured over time. Responses to the statement "I have an optimistic view of the Shires future" show trends regarding the views that respondents hold about the future of their local area. 'Agree' and 'Strongly agree' responses are an indicator of optimism. A further indicator is derived from SSC NIPS 2007, respondents' perceived change regarding their local area in the last five years, "has become better, stayed the same or become worse" and, expectations regarding changes in the following five years. These responses provide trend data on whether residents think the area has or "will become better, stay the same or become worse". Access to and use of community facilities and services indicators are derived from Sutherland Shire Council's Customer Utilization Survey 2007/2008 for community halls. While this data is only available for 2007/2008 it can be used in future reports to illustrate the use of Council facilities by not for profit organisations, and the total number of individual participants utilising Council facilities. This is a new indicator. Domestic Violence indicators are derived from Australian Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR), Local Government Area Ranking Tool and Australian Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research, Sutherland Shire LGA Trends in Recorded Crime Statistics. This data provides a comparison in Recorded Criminal Incidents of Domestic Violence in Sutherland Shire LGA over time and comparative figures to all NSW LGAs and the State. The data shows trends over time.

What is happening?

Indicators:

Participation in community life Neighbourhood interaction Volunteering Quality of life/optimism Access to and use of community facilities (new indicator Domestic violence Participation in community life State When asked to indicate “How often are you involved with…? (a range of 12 listed clubs, groups or organisations), the proportion of residents who were not involved in any activities listed in SSC NIPS 2007 was less than one in six respondents. When asked to rate their level of agreement with the following statement “I have a supportive network of family and friends”, over (95%) of respondents to SSC NIPS 2007 either ‘Agreed’ or ‘Strongly Agreed’. This response demonstrates that overall a large majority of residents have strong links to their community. Pressure Compared to SSC NIPS 2003 figures which show that four in five people participate in a listed activity the 2007 response shows this has been a marked increase in the rate of participation in listed activities with five out of every six participating. The Shire has a good rate of community participation, however a small proportion approx (15%) of isolated people who do not have a supportive network of family and friends require extra support to engage in community life. Occasionally lack of family or access to social support, fears regarding personal safety and lack of transport, mental illness and poverty exacerbate isolation. Residents who are isolated may become depressed and experience mental health issues.

Neighbourhood interaction State SSC NIPS 2007 questions related to local community links show that almost all respondents agreed that "I will help if a neighbour calls on me for assistance". A further (80%) of respondents agreed that "I trust those in my community", a figure that has increased (6%) since SSC NIPS 2003. The level of agreement with "I have little to do with people in my neighbourhood" shows mixed responses, with almost (30%) agreement and (64%) disagreeing with the statement. The table below details the responses to questions about trusting, helping and involvement with neighbours.

Table: Local Community Links

Indicators:

Table: Local Community Links

Local Community Links

Have little to do with people Help neighbour Trust community 2007 2003 2007 2003 2007 2003 Strongly disagree 12.90% 14.10% 0.60% 0.40% 0.90% 1.70% Disagree 51.50% 50.70% 0.40% 0.20% 8.60% 8.70% Neither agree nor disagree 4.60% 8.50% 0.10% 0.40% 9.20% 14.90% Agree 27.30% 24.10% 52.70% 52.90% 66.90% 67.00% Strongly agree 2.50% 1.90% 46.10% 45.80% 12.90% 6.40% No response 1.20% 0.80% 0.00% 0.40% 1.40% 1.30% Mean agreement score (1 = strongly disagree, 5 = 2.6 2.5 4.4 4.4 3.9 3.7 strongly agree) Total Respondents 518 531 518 531 517 531

Source: Sutherland Shire Council Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Survey 2007

(92%) of SSC NIPS 2007 respondents indicated that they would call upon a neighbour for help or assistance with 15 – 19 year olds being slightly less likely to call on neighbours and those 55 years of age or over, being slightly more likely to do so. Pressure Compared to previous surveys, SSC NIPS 2007 results revealed a reduction in the range of people that respondents would consider to be their neighbours. Just over half of all respondents nominated the people residing next door as their neighbours. Respondents aged 20 – 24 years old were the only age group that had a wider ranging view, identifying people in the street as neighbours. Those aged 25 – 39 and 65 years and over tended to consider those in their unit block or villas as neighbours, reflecting the type of housing more likely to be applicable to these age groups. Street and neighbourhood interaction was slightly down on 2003 figures. The table below shows that interactions between neighbours next door, in the same block of units or in the same street have reduced since the last survey.

Table: Considered to be neighbours – NIPS Time trend

Considered to be neighbours - NIPS Survey Time trend

Range of location 2007 2003 2000 1997 House/unit next door 52.10% 25.40% 25.00% 28.00% Block units/villas 9.40% 10.00% 8.00% 28.00% Street 30.00% 46.50% 41.00% 42.00% Suburban block 3.80% 5.60% 11.00% n/a Suburb 3.50% 10.40% 13.00% n/a Other 1.20% 2.10% 2.00% n/a Total Respondents 518 531 502 503

Source: Sutherland Shire Council Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Survey 2007

Volunteering State The ABS Census of Population and Housing 2006 data shows that a higher proportion of residents of Sutherland Shire volunteered for an organisation or group than for the Sydney Statistical Division.

Table: Volunteering for an organisation or group Sutherland Shire compared to Sydney Statistical Division

Source: Sutherland Shire Council Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Survey 2007

Table: Considered to be neighbours – NIPS Time trend

Considered to be neighbours - NIPS Survey Time trend

Source: Sutherland Shire Council Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Survey 2007

Table: Volunteering for an organisation or group Sutherland Shire compared to Sydney Statistical Division

Volunteering for an organisation or group

Enumerated data Sutherland Shire Number Sutherland Shire % Sydney Statistical Division % Volunteer 28082 17.3 14.8 Not a volunteer 122996 75.6 74.6 Volunteer work not stated 11599 7.1 10.6 Total 162677 100 100

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing, 2006

Pressure The level of voluntary participation in Sutherland Shire is significant in that it is higher than the Sydney Statistical Division by more than (2%).The Australian Bureau of Statistics Census of Population and Housing 2006 shows that (17%) of the Shires’ population performed voluntary work through an organisation or a group in the last 12 months. This proportion is significantly higher than the rate for the Sydney Statistical Division which is (14.8%). In SSC NIPS 2007 respondents were asked about their involvement in volunteer activities in the last 12 months. The results, broken down by age groups, are shown in the table below.

Table: Involvement in volunteering by age time series

Involvement in Volunteering in last 12 months

2007 2003 2000 15-19 44.80% 41.50% 38.10% 20-24 15.40% 24.10% 26.30% 25-39 31.00% 32.50% 27.60% 40-54 37.90% 42.10% 36.20% 55-64 40.20% 38.40% 33.30% 65 37.70% 34.20% 24.10% Whole of Shire 36.90% 35.00% 31.30%

Source: Sutherland Shire Council Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Survey 2007

The overall percentage of respondents who had volunteered was more or less similar to 2003, with more significant changes in the spread of proportions of respondents by age group. The responses to SSC NIPS 2007 shows that 3⁄4 of all volunteers were involved either in the community welfare area or sport and recreation. Provision of further volunteering opportunities for people retiring will support sustainable not for profit community organisations. Ensuring that baby boomers with essential skills continue to move from paid employment to meaningful volunteering opportunities will be important, as older people can be living around one third of their lives after they leave paid employment. SSC NIPS 2007 shows a (9%) drop in rates of volunteering among the 20 - 24 year old age group since 2003. Developing further strategies to engage this demographic group will challenge the way we market and recruit volunteers for both existing programs and needs in future.

Quality of life/optimism State SSC NIPS 2007 respondents were asked whether they thought their area had become better or not in the last five years; and whether it would become better in future. The proportion of residents who believed that their area had become better or stayed the same in the last five years had increased significantly (15.4%), from (62%) in 2003 to (77.4%) in 2007.There has also been a significant (11.3%) increase in the proportion of respondents who indicated that the area would be better or stay the same in the next five years, (59.9%) of Page 52 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council respondents in 2003 compared to (71.2%) in 2007. Page 53 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Volunteering for an organisation or group

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing, 2006

Table: Involvement in volunteering by age time series

Involvement in Volunteering in last 12 months

Source: Sutherland Shire Council Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Survey 2007

Table: Change in Local Area

Change in Local Area

Observed over last 5 years Expected in next 5 years 2007 2003 2000 1997 2007 2003 2000 1997 Better 18.90% 20.20% 16.10% 26.60% 22.60% 21.50% 22.10% 25.60% Same 58.50% 41.80% 49.60% 50.70% 48.60% 38.40% 38.80% 37.00% Worse 19.60% 35.60% 32.50% 21.30% 22.70% 33.70% 39.00% 31.20% No Response 3.00% 2.40% 1.80% 1.40% 6.20% 6.40% 0.00% 6.20% Total Respondents 518 531 502 503 518 531 502 503

Source: Sutherland Shire Council Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Survey 2007

In 2007, eight out of every ten or (81.6%) respondents agreed that they had an optimistic view about the Shire’s future. Average levels of agreement to this question have increased (7.6%) over the last four SSC NIPS.

Table: Optimistic View of Shire’s future

Optimistic View about Shire's future

2007 2003 2000 1997 Strongly disagree 3.50% 3.60% 5.40% 2.00% Disagree 8.50% 11.70% 13.70% 10.50% Neither agree nor disagree 4.40% 8.50% 20.50% 13.70% Agree 65.70% 62.50% 39.20% 56.30% Strongly agree 15.90% 11.50% 21.10% 17.10% No Response 2.00% 2.30% 0.00% 0.40% Mean Agreement Score (1 = strongly disagree, 5 = 3.9 3.7 3.6 3.8 strongly agree) Total Respondents 518 531 503 503

Source: Sutherland Shire Council Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Survey 2007

Pressure The attitudes of local residents regarding their local area both now and in the future are significant markers in determining the communities’ sense of itself and where it is going. A sustainable community will work toward common goals and for positive outcomes. Optimism creates a ripple effect impacting the economy, social cohesion and community pride. Investment in building prosperity and encouraging daily interactions with other community members creates trust in one another and promotes mental and emotional health. In 2007 (22.7%) of respondents indicated that they believed the area would become worse, since 2003, this proportion has decreased by (11%). Fewer residents now have a pessimistic view regarding the future of the Shire. SSC NIPS responses provide a sense of the community’s attitudes in regard to the immediate area in which they live and to the Sutherland Shire as a whole. Trend data from 1997 to 2007 shows that a large proportion of people surveyed have an optimistic view of the Shire’s future. Page 54 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 55 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Access to and use of community facilities and services State (12.3%) of respondents to SSC NIPS 2007 aged 65 years and over socialise at community halls. In 2007/2008 Council provided access to hall hire to 144 not for profit community groups for a total of 8,804 meetings. This is the first year that this indicator has been used. Pressure A number of not for profit organisations regularly apply to Sutherland Shire Council for reduced or waived hall Table: Change in Local Area

Change in Local Area

Source: Sutherland Shire Council Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Survey 2007

Table: Optimistic View of Shire’s future

Optimistic View about Shire's future

Source: Sutherland Shire Council Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Survey 2007

Access to and use of community facilities and services State (12.3%) of respondents to SSC NIPS 2007 aged 65 years and over socialise at community halls. In 2007/2008 Council provided access to hall hire to 144 not for profit community groups for a total of 8,804 meetings. This is the first year that this indicator has been used. Pressure A number of not for profit organisations regularly apply to Sutherland Shire Council for reduced or waived hall hire fees. In this way, Council provides access to agencies without capacity to pay for facility hire but are contributing to the community by running and promoting programs through local committees and interest groups. Demands for the provision of accessible centrally located multipurpose facilities are likely to increase as the community ages and housing densities increase. Existing facilities will require upgrades to meet demands of users. Community participation can also be limited by other social factors including poor health, temporary illness, fear of crime, lack of transport and limited mobility. People who are housebound frequently rely on others to come into the home. Over the coming years inclusive planning for all ages and abilities has been identified as a priority for Council through infrastructure upgrades of public facilities and open spaces, services and facilities. Construction has commenced on Cronulla Community Facility and Library, Lucas Heights Golf Course and Cronulla sea wall. Engadine Community Centre and Aged Care facility development is also underway. Sutherland Shire Council's Access Sub Committee provides a consultative body which provide advice on physical access matters to improve local environments. Council continues to refurbish older and build newer facilities to Australian Standard 1428.1 and 2 to promote access. Access to services and facilities by those using motorised scooters will be a major consideration when planning, designing and building public infrastructure. Electronic facilities resources and training at libraries and other community facilities will need to be delivered and developed with an increasing proportion of users being over 55 years of age.

Domestic Violence State In 2003 Recorded Criminal Incidents of Domestic Violence related assault in Sutherland Shire LGA was 179.6 per 1000.000 or 386 incidents - (ranked 130 of all LGAs in the state) increasing to a rate of 243 per 100,000 or 520 incidents - (ranked 115 of all LGAs in the state) in 2007. Pressure In 2007 Sutherland Shire was ranked 115 out of 143 local government areas that have populations over 3000. Rockdale and Hurstville LGAs rank higher than Sutherland at 107 and 100 respectively while Kogarah ranks lower at 116. BOSCAR statistics show that there has been an upward trend in incidents of reported domestic violence with an average annual percentage showing a change 2003-07 of (7.7%). Increased reported incidents of Domestic Violence could in part be attributed to recent local campaigns developed to encourage residents to report instances of domestic violence. Domestic violence is a largely hidden and the most under reported crime in the community, therefore an increase in reporting may be a positive outcome. Increased reported incidents of Domestic Violence could in part be attributed to recent local campaigns developed to encourage residents to report instances of domestic violence. Domestic violence is a largely hidden and the most under reported crime in the community, therefore an increase in reporting may be a positive outcome.

What is the response?

Indicators:

Participation in community life Neighbourhood interaction Volunteering Quality of life/optimism Access to and use of community facilities (new indicator Domestic violence Participation in community life The NSW State government provides a program funding contribution toward Shire Youth Centres, Neighbourhood Centres and day care programs to encourage participation by residents in community life. Sutherland Shire Council provides annual Community, Cultural and Older Persons Grants. Sutherland Shire Council in partnership with local licensed clubs administers financial contributions and funding allocations through the state government Community Support and Expenditure Scheme (CDSE) to meet the needs of local organisations addressing the community’s participation needs. Sutherland Shire Council provides operational subsidies and ongoing access to halls and Neighbourhood Centre facilities to local community organisations which are part funded by the State government. These services are available to all people residing in the Shire. Sutherland Shire Council’s Community Directory provides a link between the community and the services that individuals are seeking. Local services listing with this directory can be readily accessed on line. Sutherland Shire Council annual Seniors Grants and annual Community Services Grants Program funds are allocated to local not for profit organisations operating programs to reduce social isolation and depression that is attributed to lack of social interaction and ill health. Many sporting organisations are attracted to Shire beaches where competition and social events encourage a diverse range of spectators and participants. A full program of entertainment in performing arts at Sutherland Entertainment Centre enables live performances and shows locally encouraging social activity for local residents. Outdoor cultural events, exhibitions and library programs are also supported to encourage communities to interact. Sutherland Shire Council contributes considerable resources to supporting participation in community life.

Neighbourhood interaction It is important that positive interactions between neighbours and communities are encouraged and supported through formal and informal programs and events in neighbourhoods. In 2007 Sutherland Shire Council recognised positive interactions with neighbours and awarded a local resident with a ‘Good Neighbour Award’. The availability of venues such as community halls, shopping centres, neighbourhood centres and parks promote opportunities for neighbour interaction. Making facilities and venues available for safe walking, responsible ownership of pets, family involvement and leisure opportunities encourages neighbour participation.

Volunteering ‘Volunteer Link’, a community based state government funded service operates in St George and also in Sutherland Shire for one day per week. Expansion of this valuable service is required to support local volunteering interest and training needs. This service assists local residents seeking volunteering opportunities to be matched with a provider seeking a volunteer. A large number of volunteers commit to supporting sporting activity through local clubs and associations,

Page 56 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 57 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council enabling a high proportion of residents to be involved in their community. The work of voluntary management committees and face to face volunteers at community welfare organisations has enabled many residents to benefit from both accessing assistance from volunteers and giving time to these organisations. Volunteering is encouraged through Sutherland Shire Council forums, publications and websites. Recognition of volunteers who have made a special contribution occurs each year through Australia Day Citizen of the Year Award, Young Citizen of the Year Award and the Community Group of the Year Award. Volunteers’ coordinators have been identified to promote and develop opportunities such as working at the Animal Shelter, Bush Care and the Community and Cultural Planning and Events Units of Council.

Quality of life/optimism SSC NIPS 2007 shows that (3%) of respondents have indicated that they may be isolated from supportive networks of friends and neighbours. Community support and outreach measures are required to ensure that these residents are not left behind. Council will continue to monitor resident satisfaction ratings in regard toquality of life/optimism through the SSC NIPS and other consultations conducted by Council. If required, further surveys will be conducted to gain detailed information regarding specific community concerns as issues are raised through the Customer Satisfaction Surveys and research and consultation. Since the 2004 State of the Shire Report, Council has engaged the community in a number of forums to consult and plan for service delivery, infrastructure and to develop a long term vision for the Shire. The second five year phase of Councils’ 30 year strategic vision Council’s Strategic Plan The Guide to 2030 has been developed in consultation with the community. Council has developed a number of plans and established independent panels and new consultation and community engagement strategies. Access to and use of community facilities and services Private and public services should be fully accessible so that customer and business opportunities are not forgone as the community ages. Since 2004, Sutherland Shire Council has upgraded a range of facilities including both Sutherland and Engadine Leisure Centres, Cronulla surf club, toilets and change rooms along the Cronulla / Bate Bay beachfront improving the Shire’s infrastructure. Infrastructure upgrades will continue for other key facilities as recommended by the Access Sub Committee of Sutherland Shire Council. New facilities to be built by Council will comply with Australian Standards with provision for access and parking motorised scooters. Where possible, key facilities are located in centres to facilitate public transport access. To enable increased access to services and facilities Sutherland Shire Council has developed a hard copy and electronic version of the Seniors’ Directory and will produce a user friendly Ageing Well Strategy making copies available for residents in 2009. The popularity and demand for this information is unprecedented. Council has also developed a directory for Retirement and Residential Aged Care Facilities. Affordability is another key to maximising community use of services and facilities. Sutherland Shire Council provides seniors' subsidies and off peak fees for eligible residents and groups at leisure centres, golf courses and community halls to encourage use. Reduced land rates for seniors enable people to remain living in the Shire and accessing, waste, library and other facilities as their income decreases. As part of the Ageing Well strategy, Sutherland Shire Council will re-brand and upgrade community facilities, in particular seniors’ centres, pathways, parks and public spaces to ensure that older people can both identify with the type of venue available and better utilise them. Facilities in future will be “age proofed” and planned to ensure access for people with mobility constraints and those recovering from falls. Buildings and leisure facilities upgrades will incorporate ample provision for older people in a contemporary environment.

Domestic Violence Since the State of the Shire Report 2004 specific programs to address domestic violence and promote the use of support services have been implemented within both Local Area Police Commands at Sutherland and Miranda. A new Domestic Violence PASS program run with Police from Miranda and Sutherland Local Area Command’s and Sutherland Shire Family Services has been implemented. The project was developed to ensure that victims of Domestic Violence receive timely support from a non-government agency to ensure the best long term outcome for victims and their families.

AWhat learning communityis the indicator?which values education and embraces life long learning opportunities

What is the indicator?

Indicators:

Enrolment at educational institutions is measured using Australian Bureau of Statistics Census of Population and Housing 1996, 2001 and 2006 Type of educational institution attending data. This data highlights the number of attendances and Type of educational institution attended together with changes in enrolment trends over time. This indicator is linked to changes in demographic profiles of the Shire. . Levels of formal education are determined using Australian Bureau of Statistics Census of Population and Housing 2006 Post School Qualifications data showing the proportion of the population of the Shire who attained Year 10 or less, Year 12, TAFE and Bachelor or a higher degree and comparing it to previous Census periods of 2001 and 1996. This data is compared to the Sydney Statistical Division average attainment rates. Access to and use of public libraries and the knowledge economy is measured using Sutherland Shire Council Library Service Library Usage Reports 2003 /04 – 2007/08 .This data compared over time shows trends in membership, total usage by all people and home library service members. HSC resource usage data from 2002/03 to 2007/08 shows trends in the use of resources by students on site. A further measure is the number of activities and Attendance rates for Young Adult and Childrens’ activities 2002/03 to 2007/8 conducted at Shire libraries per year. Public libraries and life long learning is measured using Sutherland Shire Council Library Service annual Internet training participation rates 2002/02 – 2007/08. This measure shows the number of enrolments in training courses per year enabling a comparison over time. Sutherland Shire Council Enviro - works and Green living course enrolments 2004 -2007 shows involvement and participation rates in environmental education. Participation in arts, crafts and cultural activities is measured using SSC NIPS 2000 - 2007 data showing trend information regarding Involvement in clubs groups and organisations. The data shows trends in a range of activities by comparing the proportion and frequency of participation. Further measures are obtained from Hazelhurst Regional Gallery and Art Centre Visitation and Participation Rates 2003/04 -2007/08 showing use of Sutherland Shire Council’s services and facilities providing arts, crafts and cultural activities.

What is happening?

Indicators:

Table: Enrolment at educational institutions

Institution 1996 2001 2006

Pre school 3646 3493 4147 Infants/primary Government 14147 13455 12030 Catholic 4087 4312 4079 Other non-government 962 1078 1012 Total 19196 18845 17610 Secondary Government 9550 9868 9276 Catholic 3190 3639 3622 Other non government 1582 1778 1712 Total 14241 15285 14610 Technical and Further education 6205 6012 5076 University or other tertiary institution 6046 7051 6999 Other 1025 1611 1199 Not stated 7026 6803 12766 Total 57385 59100 61981

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics 2006 Census of Population and Housing, Type of Educational Institution attending Time Series Profile (Place of usual residence) Cat No 2068.0

Over 2000 Vocational Education and Training work placements were coordinated by Sutherland Business Education Network in 2007. Across the Shire, the NSW Board of Studies has endorsed a diverse range of Industry Curriculum Framework VET studies. Some of these courses are available to contribute to University Admissions Index (UAI) scores. Pressure Comparisons between the Census of Population and Housing 2001 and 2006 shows the proportion of the Shires population attending any type of educational institution had declined. There were no major differences between Sutherland Shire and the Sydney Statistical Division. There were marginal increases in

Page 58 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 59 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council pre-school attendances and an overall reduction in Primary, TAFE and Secondary school enrolments between 2001 and 2006. Demographic trends toward a larger proportion of older people in the community are reflected in this data. It is anticipated that the general downward trend in total attendances at schools will continue as the proportion of children and adolescents in the Shires population declines, the community ages and uptake of university degrees increases. Provision of a university campus in Sutherland Shire has made university attendance accessible for local residents. The proportion of Sutherland Shire residents enrolled in university and tertiary studies is lower than the Sydney Statistical Division rates. It is anticipated that this number will rise as a result of having a local campus. The recently established Wollongong University - Loftus Campus has an ongoing partnership with Southern Sydney Institute of TAFE - Loftus campus. Serious concerns about skills shortages are being addressed by Federal and State government programs. The NSW government is currently considering the option of raising the school leaving age in order to give young people the opportunity to take their education to at least year 12. The State government plan aims to increase the proportion of students completing Year 12 from (82.7%) to (90%) in 2016.

Levels of formal education State Australian Bureau of Statistics Census of Population and Housing Post School Qualifications 2001 and 2006 shows that in Sutherland Shire (29.4% ) of the Shires population had left school at Year 10 and (46.5%) had completed Year 12 or equivalent. in 2006, (47.7%) of the Sutherland Shires population held formal qualifications and (41%) held no qualifications. TAFE qualifications were held by (21.4%) of the population and (16.5%) held a Bachelor or higher qualification.

Table: Shire residents with post school qualifications 2001 – 2006

Percentage of people with post school qualifications

2006 2001 Qualification Sutherland Sydney Statistical Sutherland Sydney Statistical Shire Division Shire Division Bachelor or higher 16.5 20 13.9 16.5 Advanced Diploma 9.8 8.1 8.1 6.9 Vocational 21.4 14.9 22.1 15.3

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics Time Series Profile 2001 and 2006

Pressure In 2006 the Census of Population and Housing shows that there were a larger proportion of people, who had left school at Year 10 or less (29.4%), than the Sydney Statistical Division (21.6%).There were a smaller proportion of people (46.5%) who had completed Year 12 or equivalent compared tothe Sydney Statistical Division (49.1%). Qualifications of residents in Sutherland Shire compared to the Sydney Statistical Division show that in 2006, (47.7%) of the population held formal qualifications and (41%) held no qualifications compared to the Sydney Statistical Division with (43.0%) and (42.8%) respectively. The Shire has a significantly larger proportion of people with vocational i.e. TAFE qualifications than for the Sydney Statistical Division being (21.4%) compared to (14.9%). In 2006 there were (3.5%) less people in Sutherland Shire with a Bachelor or higher degree than for the Sydney Statistical District. Between 2001 and 2006 there has been an increase of (2.6%) of Shire residents who have obtained a Bachelor or higher qualification, in this same period there has been a decrease of (4.5%) of people who have no qualification. Historically lack of access to a University campus nearby was a factor impacting university enrolment. The proximity of two TAFE campuses were a factor in the higher than Sydney Statistical Division average TAFE enrolment rates.

Access to life learning and the knowledge economy State In 2007/08 there were 73,882 library members with Page over 60 507 members accessing Copyright ©the 2009 home Sutherland library Shire service. Council Page 61 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council pre-school attendances and an overall reduction in Primary, TAFE and Secondary school enrolments between 2001 and 2006. Demographic trends toward a larger proportion of older people in the community are reflected in this data. It is anticipated that the general downward trend in total attendances at schools will continue as the proportion of children and adolescents in the Shires population declines, the community ages and uptake of university degrees increases. Provision of a university campus in Sutherland Shire has made university attendance accessible for local residents. The proportion of Sutherland Shire residents enrolled in university and tertiary studies is lower than the Sydney Statistical Division rates. It is anticipated that this number will rise as a result of having a local campus. The recently established Wollongong University - Loftus Campus has an ongoing partnership with Southern Sydney Institute of TAFE - Loftus campus. Serious concerns about skills shortages are being addressed by Federal and State government programs. The NSW government is currently considering the option of raising the school leaving age in order to give young people the opportunity to take their education to at least year 12. The State government plan aims to increase the proportion of students completing Year 12 from (82.7%) to (90%) in 2016.

Table: Shire residents with post school qualifications 2001 – 2006

Percentage of people with post school qualifications

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics Time Series Profile 2001 and 2006

Access to life learning and the knowledge economy State In 2007/08 there were 73,882 library members with over 507 members accessing the home library service. The library provides weekly services to the community across all service points for 279.50 hours per week. Service delivery remains consistent with previous years with services in the Shire available every day except public holidays. The attendance figure for that year was 900,155 people.

Table: Library Usage Sutherland Shire 2002/2003 – 2007/2008

Sutherland Shire Libraries Usage

2002/2003 2003/2004 2004/2005 2005/2006 2006/2007 2007/2008 Members 107,472 115,147 96,771 74,026 73,485 73,882 People counted 943,484 939,587 935,530 916,434 909,366 900,155 535 549 521 564 507 536 (514 individual (529 individual (501 individual (545 individual (491 individual Home library members 515 individual and and 21 and 20 and 19 and 19 and 16 21 organisational) organisational) organisational) organisational) organisational) organisational) Website hits No longer No longer No longer 67,646 109,657 98,198 (home page) supplied supplied supplied

Source: Library and Information Services annual Performance Reports 2002/2003 - 2007/2008.

Sutherland Shire Libraries Higher School Certificate (HSC) resources are provided in a range of formats. The table below shows that in 2007/08 usage of these resources has declined for all types of resources. The total HSC resource use in 2007/08 was 1,310 borrowings.

Table: HSC Resources Used

HSC Resource use at Sutherland Shire Libraries

2002/2003 2003/2004 2004/2005 2005/2006 2006/2007 2007/2008 Infocus 67 105 95 55 86 58 Author/critic 189 269 244 144 122 70 Papers 265 395 412 249 226 231 Guides: Subject 512 764 896 678 690 577 Guides: Literary 615 389 630 516 460 374 Total 1748 1922 2277 1642 1584 1310

Source: Library and Information Services annual Performance Reports 2002/2003– 2007/2008

Diverse programs for children and adolescents are provided at most Council libraries. In 2007/2008 there were 880 activities conducted across all libraries with 17,822 participants in total.

Table: Children and Young Adult services at Sutherland Shire libraries

Children and Young Adult services at Sutherland Shire libraries

2002/2003 2003/2004 2004/2005 2005/2006 2006/2007 2007/2008 Activities 570 609 590 638 694 880 Participants 12,599 12,907 13,670 14,569 14,569 17,822

Source: Library and Information Services annual Performance Reports 2002/2003 - 2007/2008.

Pressure Sutherland Shire Council has one central and seven branch libraries. The number of library members has remained at the same levels for several years. The total number of people counted actually attending central Page 60 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council and branch library services declined between 2002/03 Page 6 12007/08, however Copyright the attendance © 2009 Sutherland figure still Shire remains Council above 900,000 people per year. Sutherland Shire library services are available to both members and non members, therefore assessing data on library membership and actual attendance figures alone, does not provide a full picture of the service that libraries provide. Changed demand in Higher School Certificate resources show a decrease in use of resources since The library provides weekly services to the community across all service points for 279.50 hours per week. Service delivery remains consistent with previous years with services in the Shire available every day except public holidays. The attendance figure for that year was 900,155 people.

Table: Library Usage Sutherland Shire 2002/2003 – 2007/2008

Sutherland Shire Libraries Usage

Source: Library and Information Services annual Performance Reports 2002/2003 - 2007/2008.

Table: HSC Resources Used

HSC Resource use at Sutherland Shire Libraries

Source: Library and Information Services annual Performance Reports 2002/2003– 2007/2008

Diverse programs for children and adolescents are provided at most Council libraries. In 2007/2008 there were 880 activities conducted across all libraries with 17,822 participants in total.

Table: Children and Young Adult services at Sutherland Shire libraries

Children and Young Adult services at Sutherland Shire libraries

2002/2003 2003/2004 2004/2005 2005/2006 2006/2007 2007/2008 Activities 570 609 590 638 694 880 Participants 12,599 12,907 13,670 14,569 14,569 17,822

Source: Library and Information Services annual Performance Reports 2002/2003 - 2007/2008.

Pressure Sutherland Shire Council has one central and seven branch libraries. The number of library members has remained at the same levels for several years. The total number of people counted actually attending central and branch library services declined between 2002/03 2007/08, however the attendance figure still remains above 900,000 people per year. Sutherland Shire library services are available to both members and non members, therefore assessing data on library membership and actual attendance figures alone, does not provide a full picture of the service that libraries provide. Changed demand in Higher School Certificate resources show a decrease in use of resources since 2002/03 from 1,748 borrowings to 1, 348 borrowings in 2007. Availability of this information in accessible electronic formats may now reduce the requirement for hard copies of this information. Use of the Electronic Collection at the Library is increasing, resources can be accessed remotely. Continued provision of the on line tutoring service may impact the number of actual library visits as students access e collections. Libraries are well utilised by a diverse range of secondary and tertiary studies students. Home library membership is at capacity with over 500 individuals accessing home library services each year between 2003/04 and 2007/08. Similarly the number of organisations such as nursing homes accessing the home library service has reached capacity varying from 21 nursing homes and organisations in 2003/04 to 16 in 2007/08. Child and Young Adult services are on the increase Sutherland Shire libraries have identified that both the number of activities and the number of participants in attendance have increased significantly since 2002/03. In that year 12,599 participants were registered in all activities compared to 17,822 in 2007/08, an increase of 5223 participants.

Public libraries and life long learning State Life long learning is undertaken from pre-school years to mature age. Opportunities are made available to the community through the public library system as well as a range of community colleges and community based education facilities. In 2007/08 108 participants undertook training in this area at Sutherland Shire libraries.

Table: Internet Training at Sutherland Shire libraries

Internet Training Sutherland Shire libraries

2002/2003 2003/2004 2004/2005 2005/2006 2006/2007 2007/2008 Number of participants 243 218 168 154 119 108

Source: Library and Information Services Performance Report 2002/2003 - 2007/2008

Enviro-Works and Green living courses held at Sutherland Shire Council are facilitated on a regular basis. Total enrolments in Enviro-Works and green living classes in 2007/08 were 262.

Table: Environmental education participation 2003/04 – 2007/08

Environmental education participation 2003/04 – 2007/08

2007/08 2007/06 2006/05 2005/04 2004/03 Earthworks - 35 128 123 168 Enviro-Works 66 115 - - - Short Courses 202 172 162 215 143 Total 268 322 290 338 311

Source: Sutherland Shire Council Enviro-Works and Green living enrolment reports 2004 – 2007

Pressure Internet training, training in use and application of other types of electronic equipment such as cameras is offered at Sutherland Shire libraries. The number of participants attending Sutherland Shire libraries for internet training has decreased between 2003/04 from 243 to 108 in 2007/08. There is still a high demand for Page 62 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 63 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council these courses. More than half of all Sutherland Shire libraries Internet training participants 2002/03 were over 55 years of age, this remains so in 2007/08. Coordinators evaluate Enviro-Works, assessing participants application of the information learned to everyday lifestyles. The demand for these courses remains high with programs conducted to capacity. In 2003, 311 residents participated in enviro and short courses, compared to 268 participants in 2007/08.

Participation in arts, crafts and cultural activities 2002/03 from 1,748 borrowings to 1, 348 borrowings in 2007. Availability of this information in accessible electronic formats may now reduce the requirement for hard copies of this information. Use of the Electronic Collection at the Library is increasing, resources can be accessed remotely. Continued provision of the on line tutoring service may impact the number of actual library visits as students access e collections. Libraries are well utilised by a diverse range of secondary and tertiary studies students. Home library membership is at capacity with over 500 individuals accessing home library services each year between 2003/04 and 2007/08. Similarly the number of organisations such as nursing homes accessing the home library service has reached capacity varying from 21 nursing homes and organisations in 2003/04 to 16 in 2007/08. Child and Young Adult services are on the increase Sutherland Shire libraries have identified that both the number of activities and the number of participants in attendance have increased significantly since 2002/03. In that year 12,599 participants were registered in all activities compared to 17,822 in 2007/08, an increase of 5223 participants.

Table: Internet Training at Sutherland Shire libraries

Internet Training Sutherland Shire libraries

2002/2003 2003/2004 2004/2005 2005/2006 2006/2007 2007/2008 Number of participants 243 218 168 154 119 108

Source: Library and Information Services Performance Report 2002/2003 - 2007/2008

Enviro-Works and Green living courses held at Sutherland Shire Council are facilitated on a regular basis. Total enrolments in Enviro-Works and green living classes in 2007/08 were 262.

Table: Environmental education participation 2003/04 – 2007/08

Environmental education participation 2003/04 – 2007/08

2007/08 2007/06 2006/05 2005/04 2004/03 Earthworks - 35 128 123 168 Enviro-Works 66 115 - - - Short Courses 202 172 162 215 143 Total 268 322 290 338 311

Source: Sutherland Shire Council Enviro-Works and Green living enrolment reports 2004 – 2007

Pressure Internet training, training in use and application of other types of electronic equipment such as cameras is offered at Sutherland Shire libraries. The number of participants attending Sutherland Shire libraries for internet training has decreased between 2003/04 from 243 to 108 in 2007/08. There is still a high demand for these courses. More than half of all Sutherland Shire libraries Internet training participants 2002/03 were over 55 years of age, this remains so in 2007/08. Coordinators evaluate Enviro-Works, assessing participants application of the information learned to everyday lifestyles. The demand for these courses remains high with programs conducted to capacity. In 2003, 311 residents participated in enviro and short courses, compared to 268 participants in 2007/08.

Participation in arts, crafts and cultural activities State SSC NIPS shows that participation rates in music or drama among respondents in 2007 was significant at (23%) of respondents and involvement in arts and crafts (17.8%) of the population. The proportion of respondents involved in community colleges and adult education was (25.9%) for the same period.

Table: Community involvement

Involvement with Clubs, Groups and Organisations

Often 2007 2003 2000 1997 2007 2003 Sporting/Recreation 60.30% 59.50% 30.30% 33.80% 38.30% 37.50% Street/Neighbourhood 54.50% 53.90% n/a n/a 8.70% 11.70% activities Church 33.20% 32.20% 12.20% 15.70% 17.10% 16.90% Community College/Adult 25.90% 27.10% 3.80% 7.00% 8.60% 7.90% Education Music or Drama 23.00% 17.50% 1.20% 2.20% 5.80% 5.60% PandC/School Council 19.60% 18.10% 2.40% 6.00% 7.20% 6.20% Arts and Crafts 17.80% 21.70% 3.80% 6.00% 7.00% 8.90% Surf Club 15.20% 10.90% 1.40% 3.60% 6.30% 3.80% Bushcare/Environment 13.00% 17.70% 3.00% 4.00% 2.50% 3.60% Seniors Group 11.70% 16.40% 5.60% 5.80% 6.00% 10.20% Youth Group 9.60% 12.60% 2.80% 3.20% 3.90% 4.70% Precinct Residents Assoc. 7.80% 13.00% 1.40% 2.00% 1.20% 2.10% Not involved in any groups 12.30% 16.70% 48.60% 41.70% n/a n/a

Source: Sutherland Shire Council NIPS 1997, 2000, 2003 and 2007

Hazelhurst Regional Gallery and Art Centre offers quality programs in a wide range of artistic and craft disciplines. In 2007/08 the total visitation was 157,572 people. The table below illustrates trend data for those participating in arts crafts and cultural activity.

Table: Visitation and participation rates Hazelhurst Regional Gallery and Art Centre

Visitation and participation rates Hazelhurst Regional Gallery and Art Centre

2003/2004 2004/2005 2005/2006 2006/2007 2007/2008 149,809 154,513 150,418 157,572 Total visitation 146477 (�2%) (�3%) (�3%) (�5%) 18,980 18,155 18,976 21,445 Workshop participation 19730 (�3.8%) (�4.3%) (�4.5%) (�13%) 4,117 3,217 4,210 School visits N/A 3097 (�33%) (�22%) (�31%) 2,577 3,550 1,072 1,591 Studio hire visits 1217 (�111%) (�38%) (�70%) (�48%) 2,278 2,230 2,204 2,100 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council School holiday activities* 2931 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 62 Page 63(� 22%) ( �2%) (�1%) (�8%)

* Holiday workshop attendances were initially calculated by assuming two visits per participant. However in 2004/05 a new method of recording attendances was established through the booking system EventPro, which resulted in a more accurate and realistic (and somewhat lower) estimate of participation numbers. Source: Sutherland Shire Council Hazelhurst Regional Gallery and Arts Centre annual Performance Reports

Pressure Between 1997 and 2007 participation rates in music or drama have increased from (2 %) in 1997 to (23 %) in 2007. Involvement in community colleges and adult education has increased from (7%) to (25.9%) in the same period. Involvement in arts and crafts has steadily increased from (6%) ten years ago to (17.8%) in 2007. Between 2003 and 2007 the proportion of those who indicated that they participate often has State SSC NIPS shows that participation rates in music or drama among respondents in 2007 was significant at (23%) of respondents and involvement in arts and crafts (17.8%) of the population. The proportion of respondents involved in community colleges and adult education was (25.9%) for the same period.

Table: Community involvement

Involvement with Clubs, Groups and Organisations

Source: Sutherland Shire Council NIPS 1997, 2000, 2003 and 2007

Table: Visitation and participation rates Hazelhurst Regional Gallery and Art Centre

Visitation and participation rates Hazelhurst Regional Gallery and Art Centre

2003/2004 2004/2005 2005/2006 2006/2007 2007/2008 149,809 154,513 150,418 157,572 Total visitation 146477 (�2%) (�3%) (�3%) (�5%) 18,980 18,155 18,976 21,445 Workshop participation 19730 (�3.8%) (�4.3%) (�4.5%) (�13%) 4,117 3,217 4,210 School visits N/A 3097 (�33%) (�22%) (�31%) 2,577 3,550 1,072 1,591 Studio hire visits 1217 (�111%) (�38%) (�70%) (�48%) 2,278 2,230 2,204 2,100 School holiday activities* 2931 (�22%) (�2%) (�1%) (�8%)

Pressure Between 1997 and 2007 participation rates in music or drama have increased from (2 %) in 1997 to (23 %) in 2007. Involvement in community colleges and adult education has increased from (7%) to (25.9%) in the same period. Involvement in arts and crafts has steadily increased from (6%) ten years ago to (17.8%) in 2007. Between 2003 and 2007 the proportion of those who indicated that they participate often has remained steady for each art, craft and performing arts activity. Since 2003/04, Hazelhurst Regional Gallery and Art Centre have identified increases in total visits from 146,477 to the 2007/08 figure of 157,572, an increase of over 11,000 people per year. Workshop, school visits and studio hire have increased significantly over this time. Attendance at school holiday programs decreased marginally between 2003/04 and 2007/08.

What is the response?

Indicators:

Enrolment at educational institutions Levels of formal education Access to and use of public libraries and the knowledge economy Public libraries and life long learning Participation in arts crafts and cultural activities Enrolment at educational institutions Commencing in 2009, Wollongong Loftus Campus University will be offering the first year of the Bachelor of Commerce degree, it is anticipated that this course will be very popular with Shire students. The University has a steady demand for undergraduate courses, as well as post-graduate courses. A majority of students completing undergraduate courses live and work in Sutherland Shire. Local post graduate students will not require further travel after work to complete studies outside business hours at the local Loftus Campus of Wollongong University. Technological advances including an edustream system, which allows students to download lectures conducted in Wollongong via the internet at a time which is convenient for them makes study more accessible with subjects conducted at the Loftus Education Centre via a video-conference. Trade Training Centres will be established in the Shire with Federal government funding. This is a ten year project to help address skills shortages in Australia. Students will be able to undertake a largely vocational curriculum while completing their Higher School Certificate. A number of local schools are seeking funding under this program. Sutherland Trade School will open in 2009 at both Gymea and Loftus Campuses of TAFE offering Construction and Hospitality courses. Sutherland Shire Council supports the educational institutions and services in the Shire through the Economic Development Unit. Sutherland Business Education Network (SBEN) provides careers advice to 13 – 19 year olds in mainstream education, those at risk of leaving and early leavers. The program provides structured workplace learning through initiatives such as coordinated placements, career transition support through career expos, mentoring and parent information sessions. SBEN also promotes the Federal Adopt-a- School Program to forge links between schools and local employers. Attendance rates at the Sutherland Shire Annual Business Development Week has grown substantially over the three years, from 180 in 2006, to 365 in 2007 to 470 attendees in 2008.The Annual Business Development Week program is facilitated by Sutherland Shire Council in partnership with key stakeholders involved in education and employment. Representatives of all State, Commonwealth and key business sector agencies responsible for the delivery of business development, entrepreneur and mentoring programs, career, trainee and apprenticeship support programs actively participate in this program. Council will continue to deliver this important event for local educators and employers.

Levels of formal education Retention of a skilled workforce in Sutherland Shire is a key economic and social goal. Many organisations are beginning to address workforce sustainability, an issue increasingly impacted by the large proportion of employees and business owners who will be leaving the workforce or working part time as they age. Retention of mature staff in employment for longer will require renewed efforts to continue to train mature staff to keep abreast in new technologies and industry standards. Employment of trainees and new graduates integrates both education and employment. The Business Enterprise Centre, Sutherland Shire Council, Southern Sydney Institute of TAFE, Wollongong University and the various community based education providers will assist in developing a strong base of expertise, resources and referral to local educational opportunities. Continuation of the annual Business Development Week will strengthen these partnerships, identify demand for educational qualifications and facilitate pathways for education for mature students as well as school leavers

Page 64 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 65 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Access to public libraries and the knowledge economy The diverse range of services offered by libraries demonstrates a shift away from the provision simply of books, to the establishment of libraries as community technology centres. Sutherland Shire libraries provide space, software and technology to meet the diverse needs of local residents at each library. Access to computers enables access to educational resources, secures goods, services and information and enables people to make personal connections through recreational use. A recent major upgrade of the Sutherland Shire Library Services network to remote sites has enhanced the quality of service to users. New self check out and stock take (RFID) systems and SMS messaging to alert members about books have proven to be very successful and will continue. People who find it difficult to see are increasingly using Audio read "talking books" and devices to make reading a book easier and increase the readers’ choice of titles. Sutherland Shire Council will be purchasing further equipment to enable people to hear books. Sutherland Shire Library Services have been a focal point for development of strategies and programs for Council’s Ageing Well Strategy to bring isolated home based library users into the library for group and shared experiences. Council is considering increasing access to libraries by negotiating transport options for residents wishing to come to the library rather than focus on extending the home library service. Access to libraries will also be better accommodated in future by ensuring that libraries enable parking and access by motorised scooters. While all branches deliver high quality services, the Sutherland Central and new Cronulla Branch Library will offer technology to meet emerging needs now and in future, setting a new standard in public library services and information technology. Library services are increasingly accessed on line from a variety of off site locations. Government departments, community based organisations and services are providing information and access to services on line and this will be a continuing trend. Libraries are assisting residents to access a range of services by providing the-technology to do so.

Public libraries and life long learning Internet courses and e-technology courses will continue to be offered at Sutherland Central Library. Community organisations and local businesses access Sutherland Shire libraries for information, technology, meeting space and resources. The library print media, literature, DVD’s and CD’s are available for educational and leisure purposes. Programs to introduce children to reading and to promote literacy are an important part of the libraries service delivery. Libraries will continue to run programs and have increased the number of sessions for children and young adults, including preschool story times, outreach and holiday activities, Lapsit and Rhyme time. Residents seek information about local services and organisations utilising Sutherland Shire Council’s electronic Community Directory, Council will continue to provide this directory electronically through the website. Sutherland Council Library Services will continue to provide meeting rooms and venues for educational purposes and courses. Enviro-Works courses will be run for the community, to raise awareness regarding climate change, energy consumption and sustainable gardens. The demand for Sutherland Shire to run these courses continues with a high level of interest from the community. Increasing use of electronic technologies present new challenges for libraries. Libraries must meet demand for services and collections in electronic formats, the demand for training and education to up-skill library users and the need to keep abreast of technological changes and resources, creates new demands and pressures. Two key challenges will be ensuring that emerging information technologies for users is available and encouraging library visits on site for those who are least able to access these rich social and educational centres. Sutherland Shire Council must also encourage local services to continuously update information for the Community Directory to ensure that people can access accurate information to empower and inform themselves about services and leisure and recreation opportunities. Promotion of this directory will be important in years ahead as people seek accessible information and seek to empower and educate themselves about local services and programs. Demand for Audio Read Navigators or 'talking books' for sight impaired residents is also on the increase. Books and newspapers are also required in main community languages for residents who prefer to read in their home language.

Page 66 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 67 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Participation in arts, crafts and cultural activities Sutherland Shire Council has consulted the community regarding current and anticipated future uses and development of the Sutherland Entertainment Centre. Identification of future demands for performing arts facilities, catering facilities, equipment and the building itself will enable planning for the development of the facility to proceed based on the information provided. Hazelhurst Regional Gallery and Arts Centre will continue to provide a broad range of accessible and high quality workshops, studio visits, school visits and opportunities to the community to pursue their creative endeavours. Future plans involve the extension of accredited arts and craft courses to build on formal education opportunities in the arts and closer linkages to Southern Sydney Institute of Tertiary and Further Education Art School programs. Hazelhurst Regional Gallery and Art Centre is currently developing a strategy to increase the range of arts based classes available. It is an accessible facility which enables participation by the widest range of visitors, patrons and students through programs held day, evening and during school holidays. Feedback regarding courses from students and tutors enables development of a curriculum suited to many artistic interests. Accessible centrally located facilities are in high demand for social, leisure arts and crafts activities for the ageing community. Council conducts an annual Seniors’ Arts and Crafts Fair involving local community based organisations and individuals in the development and support for art and crafts. Sutherland Shire Council conducts Jazz and Blues Arts and Crafts Markets at Hazelhurst Regional Gallery and Art Centre which enables emerging musicians and artists. Many of whom have attended local art and craft workshops or participate in art societies, to sell their products, conduct demonstrations and to meet community demand and interest in cultural activity. The interest and participation in Enviro-Works courses continues with the program of courses scheduled for 2008 again well attended. Modifications in course content has occurred over time as the community demand for information and practical activity is translated into workshops and resources to apply in individuals homes and gardens. Sutherland Shire Council facilities are managed to ensure that community use is maximised. Building upgrades to enhance physical access to meet standards and provision of new buildings designed to a high standard, mean that as the population ages, older people (the highest users of halls) can do so safely. Access to community facilities enables participation in arts, crafts and cultural groups which offer programs to the community. Not-for-profit groups are able to apply to Council to have hall hire fees and charges waived or apply for a community rate.

A prosperousWhat is community the indicator? with economic opportunities which value people and nature

What is the indicator?

Indicators:

Diversity of Business Base Employment Structure Household Income Available Land for Employment Strong partnerships and networks between education, employment and community groups (new indicator)

Diversity of Business Base. Compared with an economy that relies on one or two key sectors, an economy based upon a wide variety of business types is able to offer greater employment choice, seize emerging economic opportunities, and weather cyclical changes in the economy. The data comes from ABS counts of Australian Businesses. . Employment Structure. In combination the number of people employed plus people actively seeking employment, and the total pool of people of working age provide a picture of the economic diversity and vitality of a community. The data comes from ABS Census of Population and Housing. Household Income. Levels of household and personal income indicate the capacity to satisfy both material needs and discretionary wants, and builds economic resilience. Communities with significant proportions of people in monetary poverty, or where wealth is polarised between the extremes, run the risk of becoming unstable and ultimately unsustainable. The data comes from ABS Census of Population and Housing. Available Land for Employment. The capacity of a community to respond to both growth and change in its business base will in part be regulated by the available stock of suitable real estate. The data comes from The Sutherland Shire Local Environmental Plan, 2003 and 2006. Strong partnerships and networks between education, employment and community groups. The strength and number of connections between education and training providers, businesses as employers and service providers, and the communities where they operate and serve, affect the efficiency of the flow of people and commerce that fulfil a community’s economic demands. Strong networks build economic capacity and improve service delivery effectiveness. The data comes from Council’s Economic Development Unit.

What is happening?

Indicators:

Diversity of Business Base Employment Structure Household Income Available Land for Employment Strong partnerships and networks between education, employment and community groups (new indicator) Diversity of Business Base State Sutherland Shire possesses the full spectrum of industries. While the three sectors of Property and Business Services, Construction, and Retail Trade predominate in terms of overall numbers of businesses, all sectors are represented. Comparison with the whole of Sydney shows high similarity in the degree and diversity of structure, with the Construction sector being the only significant divergence.

Table: Composition of Business Base by Industry

Composition of Business Base by Industry

Industry Sutherland Total 2007 Sydney Total 2007 Sutherland Total 2001 Agriculture, Forestry and 1.70% 0.60% 1.20% Fishing Mining 0.10% 0.20% 0.00% Manufacturing 5.90% 5.20% 6.20% Electricity, Gas and Water 0.10% 0.10% 0.00% Supply Construction 20.00% 15.20% 20.90% Wholesale Trade 4.40% 5.20% 3.90% Retail Trade 10.40% 10.50% 10.00% Accommodation, Cafes and 2.30% 2.50% 1.70% Restaurants Transport and Storage 5.20% 6.30% 6.00% Communication Services 1.20% 1.50% 2.00% Finance and Insurance 6.90% 8.20% 7.80% Property and Business 30.70% 32.50% 27.50% Services Education 1.00% 1.00% 1.50% Health and Community 4.60% 5.10% 4.10% Services Cultural and Recreation 2.30% 3.00% 3.00% Services Personal and Other 3.20% 2.90% 4.10% Services

Source: Counts of Australian Businesses, ABS Cat No. 8165.0

Pressure While comparisons between the 2007 and 2001 values for Sutherland Shire are not strictly valid due to a

Page 68 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 69 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council change in methodology definitions, stability in the range and relative proportions of businesses is apparent in the Shire across this period.

Employment Structure State After substantial growth during the 1990’s the labour force in Sutherland Shire has largely plateaued between 2001 and 2006, essentially tracking the trend in the Shire’s overall population growth for the same period. Pressure While total employment has maintained a continuous growth, since 1996 full time employment has remained relatively stable, with growth in overall employment being driven by substantial increases in part time employment. The unemployment rate has decreased steadily since 1991, while the participation rate (the proportion of all people of an employable age who are either employed or actively seeking employment) has remained in a steady band around 67%.

Table: Employment status (persons aged 15 years and over)

Employment status (persons aged 15 years and over)

2006 2001 1996 1991 people people people people Employed full time 68,198 62.4% 69,555 63.4% 67,684 65.8% 62,922 65.6% Employed part time 35,203 32.2% 33,475 30.5% 28,870 28.1% 23,364 24.4% Employed not stated 2,655 2.4% 2,791 2.5% 1,983 1.9% 4,104 4.3% Total employed 106,056 97.1% 105,821 96.5% 98,537 95.8% 90,390 94.2% Total unemployed 3,215 2.9% 3,802 3.5% 4,268 4.2% 5,534 5.8% Total labour force 10,9271 100% 10,9623 100% 102,805 100% 95,924 100%

Total in labour force 109,271 67.2% 109,623 68.2% 102,805 67.5% 95,924 66.8% Total not in labour force 45,830 28.2% 46,467 28.9% 46,976 30.9% 44,775 31.2% Not stated 7575 4.7% 4,711 2.9% 2,464 1.6% 2,985 2.1% Total persons over 15 years 162,676 100% 160,801 100% 152,245 100% 143,684 100% Participation Rate 67.2% 68.2% 67.5% 66.8%

Source: ABS Census of Population and Housing 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006

Household Income State Relative to the whole of the Sydney Statistical Division, households in the Sutherland Shire have higher levels of weekly income, with over one quarter of households reporting a weekly income of $2000 or more, and 13% (compared with 16.8% of all the households in Sydney) reporting weekly incomes of under $500. Comparison with the 2001 income distribution profile shows a similar income advantage in the Shire relative to the whole of Sydney.

Table: Weekly household income

Page 70 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 71 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council change in methodology definitions, stability in the range and relative proportions of businesses is apparent in the Shire across this period. Weekly household income 2006 2001 Income groups Sutherland Shire Sydney Statistical Sutherland Shire Sydney Statistical Employment Structure Division Division Nil to $499 13.00% 16.80% 18.50% 22.60% State $500 to $999 17.90% 20.20% 19.50% 22.00% After substantial growth during the 1990’s the labour force in Sutherland Shire has largely plateaued between $1000 to $1999 30.10% 28.60% 33.90% 30.00% 2001 and 2006, essentially tracking the trend in the Shire’s overall population growth for the same period. $2000 or more 27.90% 23.00% 17.00% 13.70% Pressure Partial income stated 8.60% 8.50% 8.50% 8.40% While total employment has maintained a continuous growth, since 1996 full time employment has remained All incomes not stated 2.30% 2.90% 2.60% 3.30% relatively stable, with growth in overall employment being driven by substantial increases in part time employment. Source: ABS Census of Population and Housing 2001, 2006 The unemployment rate has decreased steadily since 1991, while the participation rate (the proportion of all people of an employable age who are either employed or actively seeking employment) has remained in a steady band around 67%. Pressure Table: Employment status (persons aged 15 years and over) In comparing the proportions of households in each of the income bands between 2001 and 2006 it will be seen that there has been a reduction in the proportion of households in the three lower quartile income groups, with a commensurate increase in the $2000+ income band. Primarily this is explained by growth in the average weekly wage during this period, with a similar shift observed in the whole of Sydney values. Employment status (persons aged 15 years and over) A longer term comparison of the Shire’s income distribution, using time adjusted income to account for 2006 2001 1996 1991 wages growth, shows that referenced against the whole of Sydney the proportions in each of the four income people people people people quartiles have remained relatively constant since 1991. It also shows that Sutherland Shire has consistently Employed full time 68,198 62.4% 69,555 63.4% 67,684 65.8% 62,922 65.6% maintained a relatively higher proportion of its households in the two upper income quartiles. Employed part time 35,203 32.2% 33,475 30.5% 28,870 28.1% 23,364 24.4% Table: Income Quartile Comparison by Census Employed not stated 2,655 2.4% 2,791 2.5% 1,983 1.9% 4,104 4.3% Total employed 106,056 97.1% 105,821 96.5% 98,537 95.8% 90,390 94.2% Income Quartile Comparison by Census Year Total unemployed 3,215 2.9% 3,802 3.5% 4,268 4.2% 5,534 5.8% Household Income Quartile 2006 2001 1996 1991 Total labour force 10,9271 100% 10,9623 100% 102,805 100% 95,924 100% Lowest group 20.00% 20.10% 19.90% 19.50%

Medium lowest 22.70% 22.10% 21.50% 21.50% Total in labour force 109,271 67.2% 109,623 68.2% 102,805 67.5% 95,924 66.8% Medium highest 27.00% 27.40% 27.10% 27.20% Total not in labour force 45,830 28.2% 46,467 28.9% 46,976 30.9% 44,775 31.2% Highest group 30.20% 30.50% 31.50% 31.90% Not stated 7575 4.7% 4,711 2.9% 2,464 1.6% 2,985 2.1% Total persons over 15 years 162,676 100% 160,801 100% 152,245 100% 143,684 100% Source: ABS Census of Population and Housing 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006 Participation Rate 67.2% 68.2% 67.5% 66.8%

Source: ABS Census of Population and Housing 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006 Available Land for Employment State The Sutherland Shire Local Environmental Plan (SSLEP) 2006 identifies approximately 609 hectares of employment zoned land compared with 700 hectares in the 2003 SSLEP. Household Income Pressure State While approximately 50 hectares of this difference is accounted for by land rezoned for use as aged Relative to the whole of the Sydney Statistical Division, households in the Sutherland Shire have higher housing, the remainder was rezoned to mixed use which still enables it to support economic development levels of weekly income, with over one quarter of households reporting a weekly income of $2000 or more, activities. In addition to industrial land other employment related land is also being realised through the and 13% (compared with 16.8% of all the households in Sydney) reporting weekly incomes of under $500. Kirrawee brick pit site which offers 42 hectares of mixed use land, and through opportunities for medical Comparison with the 2001 income distribution profile shows a similar income advantage in the Shire relative facilities and (potentially) high tech industries to locate in Zone 4 land near the Sutherland Hospital. to the whole of Sydney.

Table: Weekly household income Strong partnerships and networks between education, employment and community groups State In the last five years Sutherland Shire has seen the establishment and development of a number of networks and events that bring together private sector businesses, government agencies, and secondary and tertiary education institutions. Page 70 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 71 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Pressure Key elements of these networks are:

Shire Tourism and Accommodation Network Sutherland Shire Marine Association The Shire Information Technology Cluster The Southern Sydney Business Development Centre (SSBDC) – BEC, DSRD, Aust Institute of Export. Sutherland Education Network – Sutherland BEN, TAFE, University of Wollongong, Sutherland-St George Community College

Additionally, the Sutherland Shire Hub for Economic Development (SSHED), an award winning business accelerator launched in 2003, provides an environment for local business entrepreneurs and acts as a link point for Sutherland Shire Council, TAFE NSW and the University of Wollongong.

What is the response?

Indicators:

Diversity of Business Base Employment Structure Household Income Available Land for Employment Strong partnerships and networks between education, employment and community groups (new indicator)

These indicators are strongly influenced by national and international economic and social effects, and as such the local community is restricted in its capacity to exert a major influence. Consequently the principal way in which the Sutherland Shire community contributes to bringing about change is through the creation of environments and networks that produce conditions conducive to the growth of both business and local communities. Sutherland Shire Council either directly facilitates, or is an active player in multi-party groups that facilitate, these networks and environments. Council has facilitated the establishment of both the Sutherland Shire Marine Association, and the Shire Information Technology Cluster. It also directly supports Shire Tourism and Accommodation Network, and was instrumental in inaugurating the annual Shire Tourism Awards in 2007. The Shire’s business accelerator, the SSHED, is a direct initiative of Council. Council also organises a number of industry and business networking events throughout the year, with the two flagship events being Business Development Week and an Annual Business Conference. Business development is further supported through Council’s new Shire Business website http://www.shirebusiness.com.au. Council has also instigated and supported a number of research projects that aim to provide a better understanding of the Shire’s business structure, and the needs and motivations of local business operators. Council is also an active participant in a number of committees and organisations within the Shire that focus on creating better linkages between education institutions, government organisations and employers and the business community in general. In addition to longer established groups such as the Southern Sydney Business Development Centre (SSBDC) and the Sutherland Education Network, recently evolved groups include the School and Industry Leaders Forum (SILF), and the Sutherland Shire Community Partnerships initiative for the promotion of local apprenticeships and traineeships.

GreaterWhat Housing is the Choice indicator? to suit a changing population, and increased access to housing and design that is suitable within the environment

What is the indicator?

Indicators:

Housing affordability Housing stress (new indicator 2008) Housing mix Available land for housing (no new data available) Development Applications approved

Housing affordability looks at whether most households can afford a reasonable standard of housing in the area. It is measured through a comparison of tenure types, median rental and sales prices and residents’ perceptions of housing affordability in the Shire. The data comes from the SSC Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Surveys (NIPS) carried out in 1997, 2000, 2003 and 2007; the ABS Census in 1991, 1996, 2001 and 2006; and the Housing NSW Quarterly Rent and Sales Report from 2003 to 2007. . Housing stress was an indicator suggested in the 2004 SOS community consultations. This simplified measure of housing stress gives a comparison of median household incomes and median mortgage repayments for 2001 and 2006 based on data from the ABS Census. Housing mix tells us what sorts of dwellings we have in the Shire. It looks at the rate of housing stock growth, the proportion of dwelling types and residents’ perceptions of housing availability in the area. This indicator is measured through data from the SSC Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Surveys (NIPS) carried out in 1997, 2000, 2003 and 2007; the ABS Census in 1991, 1996, 2001 and 2006. Development Applications are an indicator of the level of urban development taking place in the Shire. The number and type of approved DAs approved are recorded by Council.

What is happening?

Indicators:

Housing affordability Housing stress (new indicator 2008) Housing mix Available land for housing (no new data available) Development Applications approved Housing affordability State In 2006 the proportion of occupied dwelling stock in the Shire fully owned (37%) almost equalled the proportion of homes being purchased (36%). At the end of 2007, the median weekly rental price for a 2 bedroom unit in the Shire was $310, and $430 for a 3 bedroom house. At the same time median sale prices in the area were $518,000. These ownership and cost trends are reflected in Shire residents’ perceptions of the affordability of housing, with mean agreement with the statement “I am able to afford a reasonable standard of housing in my area” dropping slightly but staying placed in between ‘neither agree nor disagree’ and ‘agree’ in the 2007 NIPS survey. Pressure After levelling off in the ten years to 2001, the level of home ownership in the Shire fell significantly in 2006, while the number of rented dwellings remained fairly constant since 1996. This pattern of home ownership seen in the Shire is consistent with changes taking place across Sydney, with the ownership rate in the Sydney SD dropping by 9% between 2001 and 2006 and the proportion of homes being purchased increasing by 7% in the same period. Even with the falling ownership rate, the Shire still has a higher proportion of outright home ownership than Sydney (Shire 37% owned versus Sydney 30% owned) and lower proportion of rented dwellings (Shire 21% rented versus Sydney 31% rented).

Table: Proportion of Tenure Type in Sutherland Shire

Proportion of Tenure Type in Sutherland Shire

1991 1996 2001 2006 Fully owned 45.40% 48.50% 46.40% 37.10% Being purchased 32.20% 27.90% 27.70% 36.30% Rented 16.90% 19.50% 20.10% 20.50% Other tenure type 5.50% 1.80% 2.10% 0.70% Not stated 1.00% 2.00% 3.70% 5.50% Total occupied dwellings 62,085 66,964 73,530 75,771

Source: ABS Census *Table totals may not equate with other similar tables due to respondent/processing error, partial response or undercount

Graph: Comparison of median rent and sale prices with Sydney 2 bedroom unit

Indicators:

Housing affordability Housing stress (new indicator 2008) Housing mix Available land for housing (no new data available) Development Applications approved Housing affordability State In 2006 the proportion of occupied dwelling stock in the Shire fully owned (37%) almost equalled the proportion of homes being purchased (36%). At the end of 2007, the median weekly rental price for a 2 bedroom unit in the Shire was $310, and $430 for a 3 bedroom house. At the same time median sale prices in the area were $518,000. These ownership and cost trends are reflected in Shire residents’ perceptions of the affordability of housing, with mean agreement with the statement “I am able to afford a reasonable standard of housing in my area” dropping slightly but staying placed in between ‘neither agree nor disagree’ and ‘agree’ in the 2007 NIPS survey. Pressure After levelling off in the ten years to 2001, the level of home ownership in the Shire fell significantly in 2006, while the number of rented dwellings remained fairly constant since 1996. This pattern of home ownership seen in the Shire is consistent with changes taking place across Sydney, with the ownership rate in the Sydney SD dropping by 9% between 2001 and 2006 and the proportion of homes being purchased increasing by 7% in the same period. Even with the falling ownership rate, the Shire still has a higher proportion of outright home ownership than Sydney (Shire 37% owned versus Sydney 30% owned) and lower proportion of rented dwellings (Shire 21% rented versus Sydney 31% rented).

Table: Proportion of Tenure Type in Sutherland Shire

Proportion of Tenure Type in Sutherland Shire

Source: ABS Census *Table totals may not equate with other similar tables due to respondent/processing error, partial response or undercount

Graph: Comparison of median rent and sale prices with Sydney 2 bedroom unit Median Rent – 2 bedroom unit

Graph: Comparison of medium rent and sale prices in Sydney 3 bedroom unit Median Rent – 3 bedroom house

Graph: Median Sale Price – all dwellings

Graph: Comparison of medium rent and sale prices in Sydney 3 bedroom unit Median Rent – 3 bedroom house

Graph: Median Sale Price – all dwellings

Source: Housing NSW Quarterly Rent and Sales Report

The gap between the median weekly rent for two bedroom units in the Shire compared to Sydney has widened over the past four years, with Sydney rents increasing by 35% compared to a 24% increase in the Shire. Conversely the median weekly rent for 3 bedroom houses increased at a higher rate in the Shire (27%) compared to Sydney (24%). While median sale prices in the Shire remain significantly higher than the Sydney average, Sydney sale prices have increased by 13% since 2003 while prices in the Shire have only increased by 6% in the same period. Over the four NIPS surveys agreement levels with the statement “I am able to afford a reasonable standard of housing in my area” showed that: The proportion of respondents who ‘agree’ with the statement each year since 1997 has steadily increased by 26% while in the same period the number of respondents indicating they ‘strongly agree’ has decreased by 40%

Table: I am able to afford a reasonable standard of housing in my area (persons aged 15 years and over)

I am able to afford a reasonable standard of housing in my area

1997 2000 2003 2007 Strongly disagree 2.40% 5.80% 7.00% 4.90% Disagree 5.40% 8.40% 16.20% 12.50% Neither agree nor disagree 5.00% 11.60% 3.60% 6.20% Agree 37.60% 49.60% 57.80% 63.60% Strongly agree 49.70% 24.70% 13.20% 9.70% Don't know 0.00% 0.00% 2.30% 3.10% Mean Agreement Score (1 - 4.3 3.8 3.6 3.7 5) Total Respondents 503 502 531 518

Source: SSC NIPS

Table: I am able to afford a reasonable standard of housing in my area (persons aged 15 years and over)

I am able to afford a reasonable standard of housing in my area

Source: SSC NIPS

Housing Stress State In relation to Sydney SD, Sutherland LGA had both higher median monthly mortgage repayments and higher median weekly rents in 2006. On average, households with a mortgage spent almost 36% of their income on repayments, while residents who rented spent just under 19% of their income on rental payments. Pressure Even though mortgage repayments and rents have been historically higher in the Shire than Sydney, median household incomes have followed this trend, meaning that housing payments consumed a lower proportion of the household income in the Shire when compared to the rest of Sydney. However the figures show that purchasing a house is becoming less affordable with a marked increase in the proportion of household income required to repay a home loan in both the Shire and Sydney (increases of 6% and 8% respectively between 2001 and 2006).

Table: Comparison of home loan repayments Sutherland Shire: Sydney Statistical Division 2001-2006 (persons aged 15 years and over)

Comparison of home loan repayments and income

2001 2006 Median payment As % of income Median payment As % of income % change Home loan per month Sutherland LGA $1,339.00 29.10% $1,950.00 35.50% 6.40% Sydney Statistical Division $1,219.00 30.90% $1,800.00 39.00% 8.10% Rent per week Sutherland LGA $230.00 20.00% $260.00 18.90% -1.10% Sydney Statistical Division $210.00 21.30% $250.00 21.70% 0.40%

Source: ABS Census

Housing Mix State In 2006 there were 75,772 occupied dwellings in the Shire, of which just under 63% were separate houses and almost 30% were either medium or high density dwellings. This is reflected in the high agreement score with the statement “The sort of housing I need is available in my area” which had slightly increased in the 2007 NIPS survey. Pressure The total number of dwellings in the Shire has continued to increase but at an ever slowing rate with the annual growth rate of housing stock dropping significantly between each Census period. The major area of growth in housing stock has been in medium density dwellings, resulting in a shift in the housing mix toward this type of development. There has been a parallel decline in the proportion of separate houses from almost 75% in 1991 to just under 63% in 2006.

Table: Sutherland Shire housing mix 1991-2006

Housing mix in the Sutherland Shire

1991 1996 2001 2006 Separate house 74.60% 69.10% 64.80% 62.80% Medium density (semi-detached, townhouse, villa) 3.40% 11.50% 13.60% 15.00% High density (flats >3 storeys) 14.50% 10.90% 14.20% 15.50% Caravans, cabin, houseboat 0.50% 0.40% 0.40% 0.20% Other 0.30% 0.30% 0.20% 0.20% Not stated 1.00% 2.20% 0.50% 0.00% Total occupied dwellings 62,008 68,279 73,530 75772 Annualised % growth rate of housing stock 2.0% 1.5% 0.60% Page 78 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 79 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council

Source: ABS Census *Table totals may not equate with other similar tables due to respondent/processing error, partial response or undercount

Within the Shire, Caringbah experienced the most growth in the total number of dwellings increasing from 4,359 dwellings in 2001 to 4,830 in 2006, a trend which matched population growth in the suburb. Several areas actually experienced a decline in dwelling numbers, for example Kurnell went from 804 to 778 dwellings Even though mortgage repayments and rents have been historically higher in the Shire than Sydney, median household incomes have followed this trend, meaning that housing payments consumed a lower proportion of the household income in the Shire when compared to the rest of Sydney. However the figures show that purchasing a house is becoming less affordable with a marked increase in the proportion of household income required to repay a home loan in both the Shire and Sydney (increases of 6% and 8% respectively between 2001 and 2006).

Table: Comparison of home loan repayments Sutherland Shire: Sydney Statistical Division 2001-2006 (persons aged 15 years and over)

Comparison of home loan repayments and income

Source: ABS Census

Table: Sutherland Shire housing mix 1991-2006

Housing mix in the Sutherland Shire

1991 1996 2001 2006 Separate house 74.60% 69.10% 64.80% 62.80% Medium density (semi-detached, townhouse, villa) 3.40% 11.50% 13.60% 15.00% Even though mortgage repayments and rents have been historically higher in the Shire than Sydney, median High density (flats >3 storeys) 14.50% 10.90% 14.20% 15.50% household incomes have followed this trend, meaning that housing payments consumed a lower proportion Caravans, cabin, houseboat 0.50% 0.40% 0.40% 0.20% of the household income in the Shire when compared to the rest of Sydney. However the figures show that Other 0.30% 0.30% 0.20% 0.20% purchasing a house is becoming less affordable with a marked increase in the proportion of household Not stated 1.00% 2.20% 0.50% 0.00% income required to repay a home loan in both the Shire and Sydney (increases of 6% and 8% respectively between 2001 and 2006). Total occupied dwellings 62,008 68,279 73,530 75772 Annualised % growth rate of housing stock 2.0% 1.5% 0.60% Table: Comparison of home loan repayments Sutherland Shire: Sydney Statistical Division 2001-2006 (persons aged 15 years and over) Source: ABS Census Comparison of home loan repayments and income *Table totals may not equate with other similar tables due to respondent/processing error, partial response or undercount

2001 2006 Median payment As % of income Median payment As % of income % change Within the Shire, Caringbah experienced the most growth in the total number of dwellings increasing from Home loan per month 4,359 dwellings in 2001 to 4,830 in 2006, a trend which matched population growth in the suburb. Several Sutherland LGA $1,339.00 29.10% $1,950.00 35.50% 6.40% areas actually experienced a decline in dwelling numbers, for example Kurnell went from 804 to 778 dwellings Sydney Statistical Division $1,219.00 30.90% $1,800.00 39.00% 8.10% between 2001 and 2006. Rent per week When asked to state their level of agreement with the statement “The sort of housing I need is available in Sutherland LGA $230.00 20.00% $260.00 18.90% -1.10% my area”, around three quarters respondents to the NIPS survey in 2003 and 2007 agreed with the statement. The proportion of respondents who strongly agreed with the statement had increased by 4% Sydney Statistical Division $210.00 21.30% $250.00 21.70% 0.40% between the two surveys.

Source: ABS Census Table: Sort of housing needed is available in the area

Sort of housing needed is available in the area

2003 2007 Housing Mix Strongly disagree 2.10% 1.00% Disagree 7.20% 9.00% State Neither agree not disagree 4.00% 1.70% In 2006 there were 75,772 occupied dwellings in the Shire, of which just under 63% were separate houses and almost 30% were either medium or high density dwellings. This is reflected in the high agreement score Agree 75.10% 73.10% with the statement “The sort of housing I need is available in my area” which had slightly increased in the Strongly agree 8.70% 12.70% 2007 NIPS survey. Don't know 3.00% 2.50% Pressure Mean Agreement Score (1 - 5) 3.8 3.9 The total number of dwellings in the Shire has continued to increase but at an ever slowing rate with the Total Respondents 531 518 annual growth rate of housing stock dropping significantly between each Census period. The major area of growth in housing stock has been in medium density dwellings, resulting in a shift in the housing mix toward Source: SSC NIPS this type of development. There has been a parallel decline in the proportion of separate houses from almost 75% in 1991 to just under 63% in 2006.

Table: Sutherland Shire housing mix 1991-2006 Development Applications approved

Housing mix in the Sutherland Shire State In the 2007/2008 financial year, a total of 1,480 Development Applications were approved in the Shire, 46% 1991 1996 2001 2006 of which were for residential dwellings. Separate house 74.60% 69.10% 64.80% 62.80% Pressure Medium density (semi-detached, townhouse, villa) 3.40% 11.50% 13.60% 15.00% Of the residential dwelling approvals, alterations and additions accounted for almost two thirds (61%), with High density (flats >3 storeys) 14.50% 10.90% 14.20% 15.50% new dwellings making up the remainder. Flats, townhouses, villas, medium density and mixed use (residential Caravans, cabin, houseboat 0.50% 0.40% 0.40% 0.20% and commercial) development made up only 5% of approved developments. The number of approvals for Other 0.30% 0.30% 0.20% 0.20% townhouses or villas has dropped by more than half since 2004/05. Not stated 1.00% 2.20% 0.50% 0.00% Graph: Number of Development Applications approved 2004-2008 for selected categories Total occupied dwellings 62,008 68,279 73,530 75772 Annualised % growth rate of housing stock 2.0% 1.5% 0.60% Page 78 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 79 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council

Source: ABS Census *Table totals may not equate with other similar tables due to respondent/processing error, partial response or undercount

Within the Shire, Caringbah experienced the most growth in the total number of dwellings increasing from 4,359 dwellings in 2001 to 4,830 in 2006, a trend which matched population growth in the suburb. Several areas actually experienced a decline in dwelling numbers, for example Kurnell went from 804 to 778 dwellings between 2001 and 2006. When asked to state their level of agreement with the statement “The sort of housing I need is available in my area”, around three quarters respondents to the NIPS survey in 2003 and 2007 agreed with the statement. The proportion of respondents who strongly agreed with the statement had increased by 4% between the two surveys.

Table: Sort of housing needed is available in the area

Sort of housing needed is available in the area

2003 2007 Strongly disagree 2.10% 1.00% Disagree 7.20% 9.00% Neither agree not disagree 4.00% 1.70% Agree 75.10% 73.10% Strongly agree 8.70% 12.70% Don't know 3.00% 2.50% Mean Agreement Score (1 - 5) 3.8 3.9 Total Respondents 531 518

Source: SSC NIPS

Development Applications approved State In the 2007/2008 financial year, a total of 1,480 Development Applications were approved in the Shire, 46% of which were for residential dwellings. Pressure Of the residential dwelling approvals, alterations and additions accounted for almost two thirds (61%), with new dwellings making up the remainder. Flats, townhouses, villas, medium density and mixed use (residential and commercial) development made up only 5% of approved developments. The number of approvals for townhouses or villas has dropped by more than half since 2004/05.

Graph: Number of Development Applications approved 2004-2008 for selected categories

Source: Sutherland Shire Councilt

What is the response?

Indicators:

Housing affordability Housing stress (new indicator 2008) Housing mix Available land for housing (no new data available) Development Applications approved Housing affordability, Housing stress, Housing mix As the population ages it is likely that the average number of people per household will continue to decline, increasing the demand for housing. In 1991 the average household size in the Shire was 2.77 persons, while in 2006 this figure had dropped to 2.65 (ABS Census, 2006). With an ageing population it is important to ensure that appropriate accessible housing is available for those on lower incomes and for people with disabilities. Although the Shire has a higher median income than Sydney, there is a need to provide a mix of housing to accommodate middle and lower income households. The Sutherland Shire Local Environmental Plan 2006 (SSLEP) was gazetted by the NSW Minister for Planning in November 2006. The SSLEP 2006 provides for a range of housing types, and includes a requirement that 20% of all new multi-unit dwelling units are to be adaptable housing. This will double the previous requirement and will help provide suitable housing for the ageing community. Council’s Ageing Strategy currently being developed for the Shire will include options for older persons housing and incorporate increases in the numbers of dwellings required to be adaptable. The Engadine Community Centre and Aged Care Facility is Council’s current major project aimed at increasing the amount of aged housing in the Shire. Enabling residents to age in place is a key issue for the region identified in the NSW Government’s Draft Metropolitan Strategy. The Strategy sets a target of 35,000 new dwellings by 2031 for the South Subregion, of which Sutherland LGA has a target of 10,100 extra dwellings. It is proposed that the majority of this growth is located in existing centres and corridors with good services and public transport. Council is required to plan for sufficient zoned land to accommodate this housing target through our new LEP, which must be gazetted by March 2011. Before this can happen, we must review all of our major strategies, including all centres strategies, environmental conservation zones and residential zones, as well as investigate opportunities to increase provision of affordable housing, particularly adjacent to Sutherland Hospital. The Housing Strategy is currently being reviewed and will include these updated dwelling projections for the Shire. Development Applications Approved Review of the procedures and improvements to the development assessment system have resulted in a reduction of the determination time and number of outstanding development applications. There has also been a reduction in the number of unresolved complaints of noncompliance with development consents, partly due to the number of people attending preapplication information sessions which help to ensure applications are complete and capable of assessment. Procedural reviews of the development assessment system will be ongoing.

ImprovedWhat Transportis the Options indicator?

What is the indicator? Indicators:

Transport Mode Share - (% of Total Average Weekday Trips by Transport Mode) Motor Vehicles Registered

Transport Mode Share (Average Weekday Trips by Transport Mode) measures the transport preference of residents in the Sutherland Shire. This is indicated by the % of total average weekday number of trips undertaken by transport mode. Transport trip data is obtained annually from the NSW Ministry of Transport’s Travel Data Centre. . Motor Vehicles Registered The number of registered motor vehicles shows the level of motor vehicle ownership and the degree of transport preference in the Sutherland Shire. Motor vehicle registration data is provided annually by the NSW Roads and Traffic Authority.

What is happening?

Indicators:

Transport Mode Share - (% of Total Average Weekday Trips by Transport Mode) Motor Vehicles Registered Average Weekday Trips by Transport Mode State Each year the Ministry of Transport’s Travel Data Centre (TDC) undertakes the Household Travel Survey (HTS) to determine how people travel in the Sydney Greater Metropolitan Area. Data from the HTS for the Sutherland Shire is used by Council to monitor changes in travel preferences that include vehicle use as driver and passenger, public transport, cycling and walking. First conducted in 1997/98 the HTS now forms a benchmark for best practice in travel surveys in Australia and around the world (TDC 2008). The most recent data from the TDC (2008) for 2006, shows that on an average weekday in the Sutherland Shire, 76% of trips are made by car, 14% walking 8% public transport and 1% cycling.

Graph: Transport Mode Share Sutherland Shire 2006 Transport Mode Share Sutherland Shire 2006 (Source TDC)

Source: NSW Ministry of Transport

Pressure Pressure Motor vehicle use continues to be the most dominant form of transport in the Sutherland Shire in 2006. From 2002 to 2006 there has been an increase in motor vehicle use of approximately 3% from 72.9% to 76%. It is of note that when average weekday motor vehicle trips have increased or decreased, there has been an inverse trend with regard to public transport trips. Between 2002 and 2006 growth in car use has coincided with a decrease in public transport use of approximately 3% (10.7% to 8.1%). Walking remains

Page 82 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 83 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council constant at 14% but has declined since 1991 by 124,000 trips (35%) on an average weekday. A number of factors have contributed to these fluctuations over time, they include a shift from single to two household incomes (greater participation of women in the workforce), the cost of fuel, vehicle purchase and running costs, infrastructure provisions such as car parking and footpaths, public transport level of service and increased land use development around centres.

Graph: Transport Mode Share 1991 to 2006 Transport Mode Share 1991 to 2006

Source: NSW Ministry of Transport

Graph: Number of Motor Vehicle and Public Transport Trips 1991 to 2006 Number of Motor Vehicle and Public Transport Trips 1991 to 2006

Source: NSW Ministry of Transport

The strong use of motor vehicle use in the Sutherland Shire has potential ramifications on community health through diminished fitness and increased obesity. It is of concern that of all trips undertaken that are less than 2km in length (many of which can be undertaken by walking and cycling) 42% are undertaken by car.

Graph: % Transport trips by mode less than 2km Page 2006 84 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 85 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council constant at 14% but has declined since 1991 by 124,000 trips (35%) on an average weekday. A number of factors have contributed to these fluctuations over time, they include a shift from single to two household incomes (greater participation of women in the workforce), the cost of fuel, vehicle purchase and running costs, infrastructure provisions such as car parking and footpaths, public transport level of service and increased land use development around centres.

Graph: Transport Mode Share 1991 to 2006 Transport Mode Share 1991 to 2006

Source: NSW Ministry of Transport

Graph: Number of Motor Vehicle and Public Transport Trips 1991 to 2006 Number of Motor Vehicle and Public Transport Trips 1991 to 2006

Source: NSW Ministry of Transport

Graph: % Transport trips by mode less than 2km 2006 % of Transport trips by mode less than 2km 2006 (Source TDC)

Source: NSW Ministry of Transport

Motor Vehicles Registered State In addition to the HTS data from the NSW Ministry of Transport, vehicle registration data from the RTA provides additional information about the number and type of vehicles used. The most recent RTA vehicle registration data for 2008 shows that there are approximately 160,600 vehicles in the Sutherland Shire, 73% (117,000) are private motor vehicles.

Graph: Registered Vehicles Sutherland Shire by Type 2008 Registered Vehicles Sutherland Shire by Type 2008 (Source RTA)

Source: NSW Roads and Traffic Authority

Pressure Page 84 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Graph: No. of Registered Passenger Motor Vehicles Page Sutherland85 Shire 1991 Copyright to 2008 © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council % of Transport trips by mode less than 2km 2006 (Source TDC)

Source: NSW Ministry of Transport

Graph: Registered Vehicles Sutherland Shire by Type 2008 Registered Vehicles Sutherland Shire by Type 2008 (Source RTA)

Source: NSW Roads and Traffic Authority

Pressure Graph: No. of Registered Passenger Motor Vehicles Sutherland Shire 1991 to 2008 No. of Registered Passenger Motor Vehicles Sutherland Shire 1991 to 2008 (Source RTA)

Source: NSW Roads and Traffic Authority

What is the response?

Indicators:

Transport Mode Share - (% of Total Average Weekday Trips by Transport Mode) Motor Vehicles Registered

Increasing transport options is vital for a sustainable future. Providing greater opportunities to travel by other modes such as public transport, cycling and walking and making trips less dependant on the private motor car ensures not only reductions in car emissions but also increased access for the wider community to services and facilities, employment, entertainment and recreation. Accessibility Constraints Mapping To better plan for transport options other than the motor car an understanding of accessibility in an area is required. Accessibility is vital to the liveability of an area, its economic, social and environmental well being. The ability to obtain goods and services, participate in the workforce, interact with each other and undertake recreational pursuits is highly dependant on accessibility. Council through its infrastructure development, land use planning and social/community services has a major influence on accessibility, however information with regard to accessibility and its potential impact can be very limited. It is within this context that an accessibility constraints map (ACM) and index for walking and public transport modes was developed by Sutherland Shire Council using its existing data resources, GIS mapping and community survey capabilities. The development of the ACM provides a basic but useful planning tool for Council that helps to identify areas where residents are most likely to experience greater difficulty and lesser opportunities in accessing key social needs such as health services, shopping, employment, education and recreational activities particularly, if they must rely on walking and public transport as their main mode of transport.

Graph: Accessibility Constraints Map showing different levels of access by Walking at Miranda / Caringbah.

Indicators:

Transport Mode Share - (% of Total Average Weekday Trips by Transport Mode) Motor Vehicles Registered

Graph: Accessibility Constraints Map showing different levels of access by Walking at Miranda / Caringbah.

Source: Sutherland Shire Council

Pedestrian and Cycleway Infrastructure provision Walking and cycling activity are the most sustainable forms of transport. To facilitate this mode of transport in the Sutherland Shire, Council has an ongoing program for the construction of footpaths and cycling facilities. The total constructed footpath length in Sutherland Shire is 437.2km. During 2007/08 6.6km of new footpath was constructed out of a planned 7.8km ((100%) of footpath construction budget expended). Bike Lockers at Railway Stations Sutherland Shire Council and the NSW Ministry of Transport were successful in obtaining Federal Government funding for the provision of secure bicycle lockers at railway stations in the Sutherland shire. The funding is provided by the Commonwealth Department of Environment and Heritage as part of the Cycle Connect Program and complements the NSW Ministry of Transport’s Secure Bike Locker Program established in 1996 under the Parking Space Levy capital works program. The two year Cycle Connect program provides for an additional 692 lockers to be installed in the Greater Sydney Region. In the Sutherland Shire to date, 30 secure bike lockers have been installed under the Cycle Connect Program at Como, Engadine Heathcote, Jannali, Loftus and Miranda stations. An additional 34 lockers are proposed at Kirrawee, Gymea, Caringbah and Cronulla. Hire and Maintenance of Lockers The Ministry of Transport has an Agreement with Bicycle NSW (BNSW) to manage and maintain secure bicycle lockers. BNSW responsibilities include the hiring, collecting rent, marketing and the routine maintenance of the bicycle lockers. Major maintenance is the responsibility of the Ministry of Transport. This includes replacing damaged and deteriorated lockers. The lockers are let per quarter with a once-only key Page deposit 88 and hire may Copyrightbe arranged © 2009 by Sutherland telephoning Shire BNSW.Council Page 89 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Source: Sutherland Shire Council

Pedestrian and Cycleway Infrastructure provision Walking and cycling activity are the most sustainable forms of transport. To facilitate this mode of transport in the Sutherland Shire, Council has an ongoing program for the construction of footpaths and cycling facilities. The total constructed footpath length in Sutherland Shire is 437.2km. During 2007/08 6.6km of new footpath was constructed out of a planned 7.8km ((100%) of footpath construction budget expended). Bike Lockers at Railway Stations Sutherland Shire Council and the NSW Ministry of Transport were successful in obtaining Federal Government funding for the provision of secure bicycle lockers at railway stations in the Sutherland shire. The funding is provided by the Commonwealth Department of Environment and Heritage as part of the Cycle Connect Program and complements the NSW Ministry of Transport’s Secure Bike Locker Program established in 1996 under the Parking Space Levy capital works program. The two year Cycle Connect program provides for an additional 692 lockers to be installed in the Greater Sydney Region. In the Sutherland Shire to date, 30 secure bike lockers have been installed under the Cycle Connect Program at Como, Engadine Heathcote, Jannali, Loftus and Miranda stations. An additional 34 lockers are proposed at Kirrawee, Gymea, Caringbah and Cronulla. Hire and Maintenance of Lockers The Ministry of Transport has an Agreement with Bicycle NSW (BNSW) to manage and maintain secure bicycle lockers. BNSW responsibilities include the hiring, collecting rent, marketing and the routine maintenance of the bicycle lockers. Major maintenance is the responsibility of the Ministry of Transport. This includes replacing damaged and deteriorated lockers. The lockers are let per quarter with a once-only key deposit and hire may be arranged by telephoning BNSW. Bike Lockers at Council To encourage the use of bicycles as a mode of travel to work, Sutherland Shire Council have six secure bicycle lockers at the rear of its administration building and a bicycle compound. The bicycle lockers and secure bicycle compound now provides secure parking for 12 bicycles of which nine to ten spaces are regularly used.

What is the indicator? Leisure and recreation opportunities to suit the needs of the changing population, and that are designed to have minimal impact on the environment

What is the indicator?

Indicators:

Open space m2/capita Public open space and facilities Access points to foreshore Social Engagement and Participation for Seniors (new indicator) Walking for Seniors (new indicator) Seniors' Leisure Centre Participation (new indicator)

Open space m2/capita . The indicator includes all the calculated areas under the SSLEP 2006 for Public Open Space, Public Open Space Bushland, Environmental Protection Bushland and land identified for Open Space Acquisition listed using the GIS. Public open space and facilities The indicator includes public open space and facilities in the Sutherland Shire include Playing Fields, Formal Gardens, Passive Reserves, and Community Centres, mapped on Council’s GIS. Access Points to Foreshore Indicators for 2008 are:

Percentage of foreshore in public ownership Fish cleaning areas Sewage pump out facilities Tidal baths and swimming enclosures Foreshore walking tracks Park and picnic areas on foreshore

Issues with the indicator of Access Points to Foreshore include whether to include or exclude rivers and creeks in foreshore access, and whether bushland, passive recreation space or dedicated sporting areas should be distinguished from one another. In this report, rivers and creeks in the tidal zone are included in foreshore access and visual and physical access is not differentiated. Social Engagement and Participation for Seniors This is a new indicator which illustrates the most likely locations for socialising and network affiliations that older residents have in the Shire. Surveys from the 2003 and 2007 NIPS are analysed by age and the top three most popular venues and group affiliations are shown. Access to technology training and education for seniors is also used to show the Library’s membership participation numbers from 2003/04 until 2007/08 on internet training course enrolment by age. Walking for Seniors This is a new indicator taken from the 2003 and 2007 Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Surveys for ages 55-64 and 65+. Walking is one way that leisure and recreation opportunities are made available to the ageing population despite physical problems that arise with the ageing process. Seniors’ Leisure Centre Participation This is a new indicator taken from the Leisure Centre’s data collection program Centaman. Data on recreation for senior residents are taken from Leisure Centre gym membership and course participation. The Leisure Centres offer courses such as Sizzling Seniors, and offer Senior’s passes for members 65+.

What is happening?

Indicators:

Open space m2/capita State There is currently 155 m2 of total public open space in Sutherland Shire. Of that, the majority (122 m2) is protected open space and bushland, and 33 m2 is public. Public open space has decreased 55% between 2000/2001 and 2007/2008, while bushland and protected open space has more than double in the same period. Since 2000/2001 there has been a total increase of open space in the Shire by 34%. Pressure Graph: Square metres per head of population from 2000/2001- 2007/2008

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008 * Figure note: the significant increase in open space provisions from 2001/02 to 2003/04 reflects the land use changes effected by the new Draft Local Environment Plan (LEP) and more accurate information available through Council’s geographic information system (GIS). During the development of the new draft LEP a fair amount of land previously zoned Public Open Space was also reassigned to a Public Open Space Bushland zone which explains the decrease in Public Open Space on the graph.

Public Open Space and Facilities

Type Number of Sites Total area (m2) Formal Gardens 7 18,080 Community Centres 14 34,910 Playing Fields 61 950,589 Passive Reserves 524 2,468,251

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

Pressure In the 2007/08 financial year Council made the following open space and facilities purchases:

Table: Council Acquisitions 2007/2008

Council Acquisitions 2007/2008

Suburb Number of Sites Total area (m2) Sylvania 7 514 Miranda 1 1,564

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008 Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008 * Figure note: the significant increase in open space provisions from 2001/02 to 2003/04 reflects the land use changes effected by the new Draft Local Environment Plan (LEP) and more accurate information available through Council’s geographic information system (GIS). During the development of the new draft LEP a fair amount of land previously zoned Public Open Space was also reassigned to a Public Open Space Bushland zone which explains the decrease in Public Open Space on the graph.

Public open space and facilities State Table: Public Open Space and Facilities

Public Open Space and Facilities

Type Number of Sites Total area (m2) Formal Gardens 7 18,080 Community Centres 14 34,910 Playing Fields 61 950,589 Passive Reserves 524 2,468,251

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

Pressure In the 2007/08 financial year Council made the following open space and facilities purchases:

Table: Council Acquisitions 2007/2008

Council Acquisitions 2007/2008

Suburb Number of Sites Total area (m2) Sylvania 7 514 Miranda 1 1,564

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

Access Points to Foreshore State Percentage of foreshore in public ownership This indicator is a new indicator as of 2008. It determines the percentage of foreshore in Public Ownership, specified as Council owned, State Department owned, Crown Land or roads. This is compared with foreshore in Private (not public) Ownership.

Table: Foreshore land in public ownership

Foreshore land in public ownership

Area of foreshore in Public Ownership 69% Area of foreshore in Private Ownership 31%

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

This indicator does not determine if the land is physically accessible by the public as there could be restrictions due to:

The use of public land is not for open space (eg. NSW Fisheries at Cronulla) There is no access due to steep topography (cliffs) (eg. Rutherford Reserve) There is no access due to dense vegetation such as mangroves (eg. mouth of Woronora River)

Pressure Fish Cleaning Facilities have been built in Jannali Reserve in the Burnum Burnum Sanctuary. As of 2005 new EPA legislation requires that fish cleaning facilities are connected to the sewer in order to have less impact on the surrounding ecosystems. This limits the previously planned Swallow Rock facilities, and no information on plans for further fish cleaning facilities was available at the time of this report. Sewerage pump-out facilities such as the planned Cronulla Wharf (Tonkin St.) facility have not gone ahead due to new compliance regulations with Sydney Water. Planning and construction of the Cronulla Wharf location have not been continued, but other locations Page are 92 being considered. Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 93 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Tidal baths have been built at Oak Park and the Esplanade in Cronulla, the Lilli Pilli baths, and in Gunnamatta Bay, Cronulla. These baths are in addition to the previously built Silver Beach baths in Kurnell, Shelly Beach baths in Cronulla, Como baths, and Coonong baths in Gymea Bay. Foreshore walking tracks Woolooware Bay Multi Use Recreational Pathway has been upgraded to include a 2.5 metre wide concrete path that commences at Solander Playing Fields and travels for 2.5 kilometres around Woolooware Bay to Mangrove Lane, Taren Point. The Woolooware Bay Multi Use Recreational Pathway is part of the Botany Bay Trail identified as part of the Department of Planning's Metropolitan Trails Framework. Park and picnic areas on foreshore Como Pleasure Ground upgrades have been progressing on schedule. Stages 1 through 4 are completed with stage five currently under construction. Additionally, the Shelly Park playground upgrade was finished in 2006. The Wanda Sports Field proposal is under review to transfer 91 hectares of open space land owned by Breen and Australand to the community. One of the environmental benefits from the project is a continuous green link between Botany Bay and Bate Bay. Treated water from the Sydney Water treatment plant will be used to irrigate the playing fields. Dunningham Park upgrades were completed in 2008. Located on the foreshore facing North Cronulla Beach, the Dunningham Park playground was upgraded to include new swings, slides, playground equipment and rubber softfall. It also includes shaded picnic areas and nearby seating for parents and carers. Premier Street Park playground facilities upgrades were completed in February 2008. The playground was replaced to include all new facilities, carer’s seating, and landscape including tree planting. Situated along Ewey Creek, the long-term goal is to acquire creek side access from the creek’s start at Gymea, to the Premier Street park.

Social Engagement and Participation for Seniors Access Points to Foreshore State Percentage of foreshore in public ownership This indicator is a new indicator as of 2008. It determines the percentage of foreshore in Public Ownership, specified as Council owned, State Department owned, Crown Land or roads. This is compared with foreshore in Private (not public) Ownership.

Table: Foreshore land in public ownership

Foreshore land in public ownership

Area of foreshore in Public Ownership 69% Area of foreshore in Private Ownership 31%

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

This indicator does not determine if the land is physically accessible by the public as there could be restrictions due to:

Pressure Fish Cleaning Facilities have been built in Jannali Reserve in the Burnum Burnum Sanctuary. As of 2005 new EPA legislation requires that fish cleaning facilities are connected to the sewer in order to have less impact on the surrounding ecosystems. This limits the previously planned Swallow Rock facilities, and no information on plans for further fish cleaning facilities was available at the time of this report. Sewerage pump-out facilities such as the planned Cronulla Wharf (Tonkin St.) facility have not gone ahead due to new compliance regulations with Sydney Water. Planning and construction of the Cronulla Wharf location have not been continued, but other locations are being considered. Tidal baths have been built at Oak Park and the Esplanade in Cronulla, the Lilli Pilli baths, and in Gunnamatta Bay, Cronulla. These baths are in addition to the previously built Silver Beach baths in Kurnell, Shelly Beach baths in Cronulla, Como baths, and Coonong baths in Gymea Bay. Foreshore walking tracks Woolooware Bay Multi Use Recreational Pathway has been upgraded to include a 2.5 metre wide concrete path that commences at Solander Playing Fields and travels for 2.5 kilometres around Woolooware Bay to Mangrove Lane, Taren Point. The Woolooware Bay Multi Use Recreational Pathway is part of the Botany Bay Trail identified as part of the Department of Planning's Metropolitan Trails Framework. Park and picnic areas on foreshore Como Pleasure Ground upgrades have been progressing on schedule. Stages 1 through 4 are completed with stage five currently under construction. Additionally, the Shelly Park playground upgrade was finished in 2006. The Wanda Sports Field proposal is under review to transfer 91 hectares of open space land owned by Breen and Australand to the community. One of the environmental benefits from the project is a continuous green link between Botany Bay and Bate Bay. Treated water from the Sydney Water treatment plant will be used to irrigate the playing fields. Dunningham Park upgrades were completed in 2008. Located on the foreshore facing North Cronulla Beach, the Dunningham Park playground was upgraded to include new swings, slides, playground equipment and rubber softfall. It also includes shaded picnic areas and nearby seating for parents and carers. Premier Street Park playground facilities upgrades were completed in February 2008. The playground was replaced to include all new facilities, carer’s seating, and landscape including tree planting. Situated along Ewey Creek, the long-term goal is to acquire creek side access from the creek’s start at Gymea, to the Premier Street park.

State The Sutherland Shire is expecting an increase in demand for a range of leisure access points and recreation opportunitiesSocial Engagement for the ageing population. and Participation It is expected that for by Seniors 2050, over one quarter of Australia’s population will be 65+ years old. This is a worldwide trend in developed countries and has large impacts on local economies and urban restructuring. The Local Government and Shires Association predict the 65+ aged population of the Shire will grow to 17.7% of the total population by 2022, indicating a growth of 5.2% overall or a 41.6% increase from the baseline of 12.5% in 2004. Council’s own predictions commissioned from the Australian Bureau of Statistics suggest a rise of 60% in the 65+ population between 2004 and 2019. In raw numbers this is an increase of 16,283 older people from the 2004 figure of 28,266. Pressure The Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Survey (NIPS) was carried out in the Sutherland Shire in 2003, and again in 2007. Below are the results from 2007 and 2003 NIPS in response to locations for socialising and involvement in clubs, groups and organisations for ages 65+.

Table: Top 3 Locations for Socialising Ages 65+

Top 3 Locations for Socialising Ages 65+

Location 65+ 2007 Shire Average 65+ 2003 Shire Average 2007 2003 Restaurants/Cafes 28% 43% 43% 40% Club 40% 39% 39% 34% House 39% 49% 37% 46%

Source: Sutherland Shire Council NIPS 2007, NIPS 2003

The above shows that socialisation at restaurants and cafes for the 65+ group has increased dramatically since 2003, and is slightly more popular than the Shire average. Meanwhile, socialisation at the home has slightly decreased, and is significantly lower than the Shire average. The respondents 65+ were less likely to meet at the beach or entertainment venues (cinema/theatre/gallery).

Page 92 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Top 3 Involvement with Clubs, Groups and Organisations Page 93 Ages 65+ Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Top 3 Involvement with Clubs, Groups and Organisations Ages 65+

Location 65+ 2007 Shire Average 65+ 2003 Shire Average 2007 2003 Seniors Group 42% 16% 41% 12% Church 29% 32% 41% 33% Sporting/Recreation 49% 60% 40% 60%

Source: Sutherland Shire Council NIPS 2007, NIPS 2003

The table above shows that being involved with a Church group has increased significantly for the 65+ age group, with 29% in 2003 and 41% in 2007. This is higher than the Shire average of 33%. The Sutherland Shire Council understands the need to make internet technology training courses available to a range of Shire residents, especially older people. In recent years, internet training courses have been offered to seniors as well as library staff, Council staff and the general public. A breakdown of the attendance from 2003-2004 until 2007-2008 shows a decrease in overall usage of the internet training courses, while Senior’s usage continues to be high at 75% of participants are 55+.

Library Internet Course Participation State The Sutherland Shire is expecting an increase in demand for a range of leisure access points and recreation opportunities for the ageing population. It is expected that by 2050, over one quarter of Australia’s population will be 65+ years old. This is a worldwide trend in developed countries and has large impacts on local economies and urban restructuring. The Local Government and Shires Association predict the 65+ aged population of the Shire will grow to 17.7% of the total population by 2022, indicating a growth of 5.2% overall or a 41.6% increase from the baseline of 12.5% in 2004. Council’s own predictions commissioned from the Australian Bureau of Statistics suggest a rise of 60% in the 65+ population between 2004 and 2019. In raw numbers this is an increase of 16,283 older people from the 2004 figure of 28,266. Pressure The Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Survey (NIPS) was carried out in the Sutherland Shire in 2003, and again in 2007. Below are the results from 2007 and 2003 NIPS in response to locations for socialising and involvement in clubs, groups and organisations for ages 65+.

Table: Top 3 Locations for Socialising Ages 65+

Top 3 Locations for Socialising Ages 65+

Location 65+ 2007 Shire Average 65+ 2003 Shire Average 2007 2003 Restaurants/Cafes 28% 43% 43% 40% Club 40% 39% 39% 34% House 39% 49% 37% 46%

Source: Sutherland Shire Council NIPS 2007, NIPS 2003

Top 3 Involvement with Clubs, Groups and Organisations Ages 65+

Location 65+ 2007 Shire Average 65+ 2003 Shire Average 2007 2003 Seniors Group 42% 16% 41% 12% Church 29% 32% 41% 33% Sporting/Recreation 49% 60% 40% 60%

Source: Sutherland Shire Council NIPS 2007, NIPS 2003

Library Internet Course Participation

Year Seniors 55+ All Participants 55+ 2003/04 151 218 69% 2004/05 119 168 71% 2005/06 134 154 87% 2006/07 84 119 71% 2007/08 82 108 76% Average 114 153 75%

*Source: Sutherland Shire Council Library course participation, 2008 Public Library Statistics

Walking for Seniors State Walking is an affordable and accessible activity that can be undertaken safely alone or in groups on well-planned and maintained public areas where there are adequate public toilets, disabled toilets and outdoor seating. This infrastructure allows exercise to become an integral part of daily life and serves to promote outdoor community cohesion. Pressure In the 2007 NIPS survey, respondents were asked to indicate how often they had walked continuously for at least 10 minutes in the last fortnight. This could be in the form of recreation, exercise or to get to and from places.

Table: Walking Continuously for Older Residents 2003 and 2007

Walking Continuously for Older Residents 2003 and 2007

Frequency of Activity 2007 2003 55-64 65+ Shire Average 55-64 65+ Shire Average Every Day 38% 35% 42% 48% 38% 45% Every Second Day 27% 30% 30% 24% 40% 27% Weekly 17% 16% 16% 17% 6% 13% Once a Fortnight 9% 4% 5% 2% 2% 3% Didn't Walk 9% 11% 7% 5% 9% 7% Page 94 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 95 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Can't Walk 0% 3% 1% 3% 13% 5% Total respondents 88 117 529 87 130 518

Source: Sutherland Shire Council NIPS 2007, NIPS 2003

The above table shows that fortnightly walking habits stay relatively high for seniors throughout the ageing process. In fact, the proportion of respondents who are able to walk and do walk increased significantly.

Seniors' Leisure Centre Participation State The Sutherland Shire Leisure Centres currently host a range of fitness and aquatic activities specifically for seniors. The programs are offered at both the Sutherland and Caringbah Leisure Centres, and include Senior’s aqua, light-passed circuits, light-passed aerobics and Master’s pump. Pressure The table below shows the usage patterns of the Sutherland Shire Council Leisure Centres by Seniors, including Senior’s passes and discounts.

Table: Sutherland Shire Council Leisure Centre Membership Library Internet Course Participation

Year Seniors 55+ All Participants 55+ 2003/04 151 218 69% 2004/05 119 168 71% 2005/06 134 154 87% 2006/07 84 119 71% 2007/08 82 108 76% Average 114 153 75%

*Source: Sutherland Shire Council Library course participation, 2008 Public Library Statistics

Table: Walking Continuously for Older Residents 2003 and 2007

Walking Continuously for Older Residents 2003 and 2007

Frequency of Activity 2007 2003 55-64 65+ Shire Average 55-64 65+ Shire Average Every Day 38% 35% 42% 48% 38% 45% Every Second Day 27% 30% 30% 24% 40% 27% Weekly 17% 16% 16% 17% 6% 13% Once a Fortnight 9% 4% 5% 2% 2% 3% Didn't Walk 9% 11% 7% 5% 9% 7% Can't Walk 0% 3% 1% 3% 13% 5% Total respondents 88 117 529 87 130 518

Source: Sutherland Shire Council NIPS 2007, NIPS 2003

Seniors' Leisure Centre Participation Library Internet Course Participation State Year Seniors 55+ All Participants 55+ The Sutherland Shire Leisure Centres currently host a range of fitness and aquatic activities specifically for seniors. The programs are offered at both the Sutherland and Caringbah Leisure Centres, and include 2003/04 151 218 69% Senior’s aqua, light-passed circuits, light-passed aerobics and Master’s pump. 2004/05 119 168 71% 2005/06 134 154 87% Pressure 2006/07 84 119 71% The table below shows the usage patterns of the Sutherland Shire Council Leisure Centres by Seniors, including Senior’s passes and discounts. 2007/08 82 108 76% Average 114 153 75% Table: Sutherland Shire Council Leisure Centre Membership

*Source: Sutherland Shire Council Library course participation, 2008 Public Library Statistics Sutherland Shire Council Leisure Centre Membership

Age Group 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 Walking for Seniors Membership 55-85 17% 18% 20% 21% 21% 21% Membership 65+ 3.90% 5.30% 7.90% 8.20% 7.50% 7.30% State Walking is an affordable and accessible activity that can be undertaken safely alone or in groups on *Source: Sutherland Shire Council Leisure Centre Active Member Distribution Listings well-planned and maintained public areas where there are adequate public toilets, disabled toilets and outdoor seating. This infrastructure allows exercise to become an integral part of daily life and serves to promote outdoor community cohesion. There has been a steady increase of Senior’s membership at the Sutherland Leisure Centres, with 65+ Pressure memberships amounting to 3.9% of total memberships in 2003 and 7.3% in 2008. In the 2007 NIPS survey, respondents were asked to indicate how often they had walked continuously for at least 10 minutes in the last fortnight. This could be in the form of recreation, exercise or to get to and from places.

Source: Sutherland Shire Council NIPS 2007, NIPS 2003

Table: Sutherland Shire Council Leisure Centre Membership What is the response?

What is the response?

Indicators:

Open space m2/capita Council implemented five new S94 Contribution plans in the 2007/08 period. The Mixed Use Zone - Kirrawee Contribution Plan was introduced in October 2007. The plan applies to development on land in Zone 7 – Mixed Use - Kirrawee and will generate funds to acquire and improve open space within the Kirrawee area. Four new levy based plans were introduced in May 2008. The S94A Levy Plans apply to the Menai, Cronulla, Sutherland and Engadine Centres and generate funds from predominantly commercial development, for improvements to the town centres. Public open space and facilities Sutherland Shire currently has a variety of open space and recreational facilities ranging from public open space, walkways, cycleways, sports fields and leisure centres that serves the whole population of the Shire. These facilities have been provided over a number of years and reflected the needs of the community and relevant planning policies at the time. Council continues to purchase open space in accordance with contributions collected under current and previous contribution plans. Access points to foreshore A number of improvements and upgrades to foreshore access areas, open spaces and parks have entered the concept phase or are completed. They include improved stormwater management, acquisition of land, and foreshore facility upgrading. Future stages planned for the Woolooware Bay Multi Use Recreational Pathway during 2008- 2009 include a section through the Taren Point Shorebird vegetation community and a link to Captain Cook Bridge. The pathway is now included in Sydney's Great Coastal Walk brochures which includes walking trail information from Barenjoey to the Royal National Park. There is potential for the concept of Sydney's Great Coastal Walk and the accompanying brochures to be expanded beyond the coastal areas of the Sutherland Shire. More extensive routes across the Shire have already been identified in previous studies and include the Kai'mia Way, Woronora Valley Track and a network of other local trails. The next stage of the project will involve engaging the community to take responsibility for developing the walking brochures. Social Engagement and Participation for Seniors Council has invested considerable energy in establishing and servicing a comprehensive network of facilities designed to maximise health and wellbeing amongst the members of the ageing community and is preparing a concise but comprehensive strategy titled 'Ageing Well in Sutherland Shire’. This includes a wide range of issues to do with the changing transportation, housing, and health status of many of the Shire’s residents. Seniors’ Week across NSW is held during March and April each year, with over 500 events taking place state-wide. Sutherland Shire Council arranges the local Seniors’ Week activities including the unique Healthy Ageing Expo, which received a ‘Highly Commended’ in the Heart Foundation Local Government Award 2008.

Page 96 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 97 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Sutherland Shire Library Services are committed to improving access and resources for older people. Future plans include employing a Community Liaison Librarian for older people’s programing and more motor scooter parking spaces in library parking zones. Older residents of the Shire play a vital role in participating in and organising some of the Shire’s most important volunteer programs. Some of the outstanding contribution is done through volunteering for Bushcare, the Botany Bay Family History Society at the Sutherland Library, the Kurnell Historic Drive Care Program, the Sutherland Shire Council Animal Shelter, or the Hazelhurst Regional Gallery and Arts Centre. Other contributions are made through organising cultural events or youth and seniors’ events, managing tennis and other sporting facilities, being a member of the Sister Cities Committees, Aged Services Sub Committee, Community Facilities Management Committees, and the Senior’s Activities Unit. Walking for Seniors While playing fields, leisure centres and health clubs are part of the solution for the more active members of our community, encouraging physical activity as part of the daily routine, such as walking to the shops or station is equally important for our older residents. Council recognises that well-maintained, non-slip footpaths are important to prevent falls and is continuing to implement the footpath program for this purpose.

Seniors’ Leisure Centre Participation Council’s leisure centres in Sutherland, Engadine and Caringbah run a variety of programs designed specifically for seniors and in many cases offer senior discounts. Council also provides a range of fitness and information-related infrastructure, such as community centres, libraries, halls, recreation facilities, parks and pathways, tennis courts and sportsgrounds, in the aim of assisting all residents to stay fit and active.

Table: Foreshore Areas – Access list as at 2008

Setting

Access Opportunities Coast Botany Bay Georges River Woronora River Boat ramps, wharves and jetties Kurnell Boat Sylvania Bonnet Ba Ramp, Waters Boat Boat Ramp Kurnell Ramp Burnum (under Horse Rock Burnum review) Point Boat Sanctuary Silver Ramp Boat Ramp Beach, Hawkesbury Jannali Kurnell (light Park Boat Woronora craft Ramp and Boat Ramp launching) Wharf Meeting Oyster Bay Place Wharf Boat Ramp (National Parks) Scylla Bay Boat Ramp, Como (Dredging Feasibility to improve boat ramp) Old Taren Point Road Boat Ramp Sandy Point Boat Ramp

Footpaths on foreshore The Woolooware Como Esplanade, Bay Heritage and Cronulla Boardwalk Env Trail Silver Beach Stages 1 Sculpture and 2 of the Walk Woolooware Bay Multi Use rec. Pathway

National Parks Botany Bay, Botany Bay Georges Heathcote frontage/crown National National River, National lands Park Park National park West skie Woronora River

Access paths Cronulla The Great The Great The Great Gunnamatta Kai’mia Way Ka’mia Way Kai’mia Open Feasibility Feasibility Way Space Report Report Feasibility Masterplan Como Report Heritage and env Trail

Foreshore parks and reserves Shelly Park, Bonna Point, George’s The Glen Cronulla Kurnell Head, Reserve, Cronulla Silver Illawong Bonnet Ba Park, Beach, Thompson’s Koolangar Cronulla Kurnell Bay Reserve, Oak Park, Reserve, Bonnet Ba Cronulla Illawong Lakewood Dunningham Albert City Park, Delardes Reserve, Cronulla Memorial Bonnet Ba Reserve, Burnum John Illawong McKinn Burnum Park, Sandy Point Sanctuary Cronulla Reserve, Prince Sandy Point Don Lucas Edward Reserve, Kangaroo Park, Cronulla Point Woronora Reserve Woronora Green Point Dam Reserve, Oyster Bay

WhatLocal suburban is the activity indicator? centres that support a healthy local economy and build a sense of community

What is the indicator?

Indicators:

Population Density (new indicator) Social Contact at Local Facilities (new indicator) Local Employment Opportunities (new indicator)

Population Density. . The number of people living in a particular area strongly influences the form and character of the place. Without a “critical mass” of population certain facilities and services are not viable, with a general rule that the greater the population the greater the variety of amenities. The data for this indicator comes from ABS census of Population and Housing. Social Contact at Local Facilities. While facilities can create an environment for community connection, it is the type and number of ways in which communities interact, and the locations where these interactions occur, that indicate the healthy functioning of a community. The data for this indicator comes from Sutherland Shire Council Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Surveys (NIPS). Local Employment Opportunities. The availability of local employment opportunities provide a variety of benefits in addition to job creation and stimulation of the local economy. Reduction in commuting time and trips minimises environmental impacts and increases the time available to workers for family and social interaction. The data comes from ABS and NSW Bureau of Statistics and Department of Transport Journey to work data.

What is happening?

Indicators:

Population Density (new indicator) Social Contact at Local Facilities (new indicator) Local Employment Opportunities (new indicator) Population Density State Within Sutherland Shire there are ten locations that have been specifically identified as key centres, and collectively they account for 60 per cent of the Shire’s population. Pressure Taking 1991 as the base year, it is found that these centres have experienced a variety of changes in their population density. Barden Ridge and Menai have undergone substantial increases in their population density, while Sutherland, Miranda, Caringbah, and Cronulla have also increased but to a lesser extent. In contrast Sylvania, Kirrawee, Engadine, and Bundeena-Maianbar have either remained relatively stable or reduced their population density.

Table: Population density Sutherland Shire 1991-2006

Population density Sutherland Shire 1991-2006

Area Population Relative Population Growth 2006 2006 2001 1996 1991 Barden Ridge 4,082 2.26 2.17 1.96 1.0 Menai 10,880 2.17 2.17 1.67 1.0 Sutherland 8,533 1.22 1.16 0.96 1.0 Miranda 14,098 1.19 1.17 1.06 1.0 Caringbah 21,266 1.13 1.10 1.06 1.0 Cronulla 16,494 1.09 1.07 1.01 1.0 Kirrawee 8,744 1.03 1.04 1.03 1.0 Sylvania 14,230 1.00 0.97 0.98 1.0 Bundeena - Maianbar 2,363 1.00 1.10 1.03 1.0 Engadine 19,098 0.92 0.94 0.97 1.0

Source: ABS Census of Population and Housing 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006

Social Contact at Local Facilities State While peoples’ homes have been, and remain, the primary location for social interaction, a marked growth has occurred in the use of community facilities by Shire residents as a meeting point during the past decade. Pressure Most particularly cafes and restaurants, a key feature of community hubs, have shown a substantial increase in their importance as social meeting points. Clubs, shopping centres (both major and local) and sporting venues also play an important role in providing places for community connection. The proportion of people who do not socialise has remained both low and relatively stable over the past decade.

Proportion of Respondents who socialise at locations 1997-2007

Location 2007 2003 2000 1997 House 46.1% 48.8% 49.0% 46.9% Restaurants/Cafes 40.4% 42.7% 26.9% 7.6% Club 33.7% 38.6% 26.9% 20.5% Beach 28.2% 19.8% 6.2% 2.0% Major shops 19.0% 21.3% 11.4% 10.1% Sport/Leisure venue 18.5% 25.8% 7.4% 6.6% Local shops 17.4% 23.2% 5.0% 5.8% Park 12.6% 16.6% 5.4% 2.4% Don't socialise 2.7% 2.1% 5.0% 2.2% Total Respondents 518 531 502 503

Source: Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Survey 1997, 2000, 2003, 2007

Local Employment Opportunities State In regard to the availability of work within Sutherland Shire, the situation has remained relatively stable since 2001. Pressure While the Shire generates a substantial number of employment opportunities for residents (and to a lesser degree non-residents), a higher number of residents are employed in locations outside the Shire.

Table: Location of employment 2001-2006

Location of employment 2001-2006

Employment location Number of People 2006 2001 Live inside and work inside Sutherland Shire 40,891 39,357 Live outside, but work within Sutherland Shire 13,702 14,187 Total workers in Sutherland Shire 54,593 53,544

Live inside and work outside Sutherland Shire 57,544 66,254 Live within Sutherland Shire, work location unknown 9,104 -

Source: a) Australian Bureau of Statistics and Department of Transport 2001 Journey to Work Dataset, Table 12 b) Australian Bureau of Statistics, Journey to work, unpublished data, 2006.

What is the response?

Indicators:

Population Density (new indicator) Social Contact at Local Facilities (new indicator) Local Employment Opportunities (new indicator)

Sutherland Shire Development Control Plan 2006 (SSDCP2006) contains strategies formulated for separate localities that are distinguished by a unique set of characteristics created by location, landuse, history or geography. Many of these localities are within urban centres and employment zones and are the focal point for the social and economic development for the Sutherland Shire community. A series of Council works and initiatives is underway to realise the following overall intentions of the strategies for these centres: Sutherland – a vibrant retail and administrative core which increases the existing level of retail activity and provides for the centre to be supported by appropriate residential densities and housing types Kirrawee – retain and enhance key aspects including leafy environment with a general lack of high rise and high density development, a sense of community, good public transport access, and village atmosphere with cafes, restaurants and unique shops. Additionally an employment area strategy focuses on both smaller factory / warehouse sites and larger allotments with high accessibility and profile suitable for high technology industries and administrative and office services support. Miranda – a vibrant ‘place’ that offers choices and diversity, and improved connections within the centre through a greater emphasis on pedestrian movement, a system of linked public open spaces, integration of public transport services, and accommodation of vehicular traffic whose destination is the centre. Engadine Centre – a quality district shopping centre with a balanced mix of retail, commercial, residential, community and leisure uses, primarily for the local community. Cronulla – a vibrant, attractive and sustainable mixed-use urban village with additional housing, retail, commercial, tourism facilities and community services, in a relaxed beach atmosphere and high quality, natural environment. Caringbah – urban regeneration through increased residential development, improved retail choice, and the development of a new identity and role through a services orientation. The plan also identifies a Medical Cluster in the area. Menai – a mixed use urban centre for the long term needs of its large residential population including a mix of commercial/ professional, retail, residential, recreational and entertainment uses. Mixed business, retail, commercial and community related uses will be supported in the north eastern precinct of the Centre, while land to the south west of the centre will support a mixture of retail/commercial uses and light industrial uses. Employment zoned land will remain an area dedicated for non-traditional industrial uses. Bundeena - Maianbar – managed development to ensure that the existing character and scale of development in is not overwhelmed and that the landscape values of the area are retained. The economic development and employment elements of these initiatives are complemented by Council’s active involvement during the last five years in the establishment and development of a number of networks and events that bring together private sector businesses, government agencies, and secondary and tertiary education institutions.

WhatWell maintained is the and efficientindicator? critical infrastructure which meets current and future needs

What is the indicator?

Indicators:

Suggestions for future indicators are:

Desalination Plant Usage Planet Footprint Water Usage Reports by LGA Energy Demand by LGA Renewable Energy by LGA GreenPower Sign-ups by LGA Planet Footprint Reports on SSC Energy Usage compared to LGA averages Telecommunication requirements per capita

Footpaths/Roads The data for this indicator is taken from Sutherland Shire Council’s geographic information system (GIS) on the length of road and footpath in the Shire. The indicator does not change significantly from year to year, but provides a measure for the rollout of the footpath program and budget. Stormwater Infrastructure The indicator is taken from Sutherland Shire Council State of the Environment Report, which reports on all major stormwater projects, gross pollutant trap installations, and stormwater quality improvement devices (SQIDs). Sydney Dam System The indicator is taken from Sydney Catchment Authority’s Annual Reports on dam water levels, storage capacity, environmental flows and deep water access projects. This is part of the Metropolitan Water Plan that reports on projects that ensure the future water availability of the greater Sydney metropolitan area. Energy Demand Energy demand in Australia has been increasing since the 1960’s, with a decreasing growth rate. Further increases in energy demand are expected with developments in technology and population growth. The indicator for energy demand is taken from the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics (ABARE) statistics on growth of energy demand. Renewable Energy Technology Renewable energy technology is set to increase with the Federal Government’s target of 20% renewable energy by 2020. The New South Wales accreditation program GreenPower tracks renewable energy products and consumption. Data comes from the GreenPower quarterly reporting on renewable technology products and consumption. Low impact telecommunication facilities Low-impact facilities require Council notification and implementation of recommended community consultation procedures. Service providers are not required to submit a Development Application for low-impact telecommunication towers. Data is taken from Sutherland Shire Council’s records of notifications. High impact telecommunication facilities

Indicators:

Suggestions for future indicators are:

What is happening?

Indicators:

Footpaths/Roads Stormwater Infrastructure Sydney Dam System (new indicator) Energy Demand (new indicator) Renewable Energy Technology (new indicator) Low and High Impact Telecommunications Facilities (new indicator) Footpaths/Roads State There are approximately 987km of road and 437.2km of footpaths in Sutherland Shire. As a proportion of the land that is urban, 7.2% (984 Ha) is occupied by roads and 0.4% (55 Ha) by footpaths. Pressure In the 2007/08 financial year, 6.6km of new footpath constructed out of a planned 7.8km. This construction used (100%) of the budget for that year.

Stormwater Infrastructure State As of 2007, approximately (35%) of the urban areas of Sutherland Shire were covered with stormwater quality improvement devices (SQIDs). Current works include the Cronulla Park stormwater irrigation project, a 300,000 Litre underground water tank that captures stormwater and can be used in public toilets and for facility irrigation. Pressure More stormwater infrastructure projects are expected in the Sutherland Shire in coming years. Stormwater harvesting is a way to reduce pollution while recycling water, minimising erosion, and preventing floods. Harvesting involves the collection, treatment, storage and re-use of stormwater runoff, and provides an ideal solution to the reduction of demand on mains water and to ensure longevity of stormwater infrastructure. In this way stormwater harvesting has ecological as well as financial benefits for Council and residents. As part of Council’s Stormwater Drainage Program, the list of stormwater projects completed 2004/05 through 2006/07 is listed in the Appendix 1. Stormwater quality improvement devices (SQIDS) are designed to capture pollutants and prevent them from flowing into the water ways. One type of SQID is a gross pollutant trap (GPT) which is designed to capture pollutants and prevent them from passing further down stream or into the ocean. For a list of SQID installations from 2005/06 – 2006/07 see the table in the Appendix 2. The graph below shows an increase in the amount of pollutants that were trapped since 1996/97. This coincides with an increase in the number of SQIDs as well as the catchment area serviced by SQIDs.

Graph: SQID Cleanout Data Sutherland Shire 1996-2007

Indicators:

Footpaths/Roads Stormwater Infrastructure Sydney Dam System (new indicator) Energy Demand (new indicator) Renewable Energy Technology (new indicator) Low and High Impact Telecommunications Facilities (new indicator) Footpaths/Roads State There are approximately 987km of road and 437.2km of footpaths in Sutherland Shire. As a proportion of the land that is urban, 7.2% (984 Ha) is occupied by roads and 0.4% (55 Ha) by footpaths. Pressure In the 2007/08 financial year, 6.6km of new footpath constructed out of a planned 7.8km. This construction used (100%) of the budget for that year.

Graph: SQID Cleanout Data Sutherland Shire 1996-2007 SQID Cleanout Data

Source: State of the Environment Report 2007

Sydney Dam System State Woronora Dam collects water from the catchment of the Woronora River, which drains into the dam and then into Botany Bay. The dam supplies the majority of Sutherland Shire residents’ water. Dam storage levels in the total Sydney Dam system between 2004 and 2008 have fluctuated. Mid-year levels have fluctuated from a low of (38.3%) in June 2005, and a high of (66.7%) in June 2008. The Woronora Dam has seen a high of (75.1%) in June 2004 and a low of (30.4%) in June 2006. Despite fluctuation, Warragamba’s Dam levels have dropped significantly since 2001, while Sutherland Shire’s Woronora Dam and other local dams have retained relatively constant levels. Pressure Woronora Dam normally provides (3%) of the total daily water supply for the Sydney-Illawarra system. The main catchment for the Sydney metropolitan region is the Warragamba Dam. Warragamba Dam in conjunction with river systems forming Lake Burragorang combine to supply 80% of water for the Sydney metropolitan region. As part of the Sydney Metropolitan Water Plan, Sydney Catchment Authority is making plans to access deep water in the Sydney Dams, to develop a diverse range of water access infrastructure. Insuring diversity of water sources is a critical part of preparing for future onset of drought conditions. The Sydney Catchment Authority has already begun installing pumps for deep water access in the Warragamba and Nepean Dams.

Source: State of the Environment Report 2007

Energy Demand State Between 2001/02 and 2006/07, annual energy consumption in New South Wales grew by (1.1%) per year, compared with the more than double national average growth of (2.4%) per year. New South Wales uses more energy than any other state or territory, at (26.5%) of all energy consumption in Australia. Pressure The growth rate of Australia’s primary energy consumption has decreased over time, with a peak of (5%) growth rate in the 1960’s, and a low of (2.3%) in 2006/07. It is projected to fall slightly to (2%) until 2010/11, and further to (1.5%) in 2029/30. With these projections, energy consumption is set to reach 8162 petajoules by 2029/30. Per capita consumption would also rise over the period from 275 gigajoules in 2004/05 to 319 gigajoules by 2029/30. The table below that In 2006/07 New South Wales had above average consumption growth of (1.7%), or 1,529 petajoules (PJ). (One petajoule (PJ) of energy approximates 278 gigawatt hours). Average New South Wales energy consumption growth for 2006/07 was higher than the average growth of 1.1% from total years 2001/07.

Table: Australian Energy Consumption Average Growth by State/Territory >

Australian Energy Consumption Average Growth by State/Territory

average annual growth growth 2006/07 growth 2006/07 shares 2001-02 to 2006/07 % % PJ ppts New South Wales 1.1 1.7 1 529 26.5 Victoria 1.2 –0.9 1 463 25.4 Queensland 4.2 0 1 309 22.7 South Australia –0.7 –2.0 317 5.5 Western Australia 4.7 13.5 916 15.9 Tasmania 5.1 4.9 126 2.2 Northern Territory 8 16.7 109 1.9 Australia 2.4 2.3 5 770 100

*Source: ABARE Energy Update 2008

Renewable Energy Technology State Renewable energy in NSW is growing significantly. The NSW renewable energy accreditation program GreenPower showed a (50%) increase in sales between April 1 and June 30 2008 from the previous year. Total renewable energy sources in NSW account for about (6%) of primary energy consumption. Pressure In New South Wales approximately (90%) of electricity is generated from coal-fired power stations. Renewable energy only accounts for (6%) of primary energy sources in NSW, primarily in the form biomass and hydroelectricity which together account for over (90%) of renewable electricity consumption in Australia. The amount of wind power consumption is set to increase by (700%) for the use of Sydney Water’s desalination plant, which will not increase the total renewable electricity production for use in any other sector. The high level of interest in green energy products can be seen in NSW GreenPower usage rates. GreenPower is the national accreditation program that reports on renewable electricity products offered by energy suppliers in Australia. During the quarter from April 1 through June 30, 2008 in NSW, there were a total of 220,822 customers (residential and commercial), totalling 124,179 MWh of GreenPower used. In their quarterly reporting period of 1 April through 30 June, GreenPower showed a (50%) increase in sales from the previous year.

Page 106 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Pressure Page 107 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Telecommunication towers support a range of services including single channel customer connections to services such as Airservices Australia, police, defence, and electricity organisations, railways and mobile phone base stations. To ensure greater Council and community involvement when mobile phone base stations are installed, an Industry Code for the Deployment of Mobile Phone Network Infrastructure has been and further to (1.5%) in 2029/30. With these projections, energy consumption is set to reach 8162 petajoules by 2029/30. Per capita consumption would also rise over the period from 275 gigajoules in 2004/05 to 319 gigajoules by 2029/30. The table below that In 2006/07 New South Wales had above average consumption growth of (1.7%), or 1,529 petajoules (PJ). (One petajoule (PJ) of energy approximates 278 gigawatt hours). Average New South Wales energy consumption growth for 2006/07 was higher than the average growth of 1.1% from total years 2001/07.

Table: Australian Energy Consumption Average Growth by State/Territory >

Australian Energy Consumption Average Growth by State/Territory

*Source: ABARE Energy Update 2008

Low impact telecommunication facilities State Since 2005, a total of 45 proposals have been received by Sutherland Shire Council for low-impact telecommunication facilities throughout Sutherland Shire. The number has been steadily increasing, with only six proposals in 2005, 12 in 2006 and 19 in 2007. Pressure Telecommunication towers support a range of services including single channel customer connections to services such as Airservices Australia, police, defence, and electricity organisations, railways and mobile phone base stations. To ensure greater Council and community involvement when mobile phone base stations are installed, an Industry Code for the Deployment of Mobile Phone Network Infrastructure has been introduced. It supplements the carriers’ existing obligations, and highlights the protocol for notifying Council of low-impact facilities with community consultation measures. On average, Council responds within nine days of receipt of the proposals to provide recommendations to the provider on further community consultation.

High impact telecommunication facilities State Since 2001, thirteen (13) high-impact telecommunication towers have been approved and installed in Sutherland Shire. Pressure Each proposal for a high-impact telecommunication tower and associated infrastructure requires a full Development Application to be submitted to Council for consideration. A high-impact tower can be in the form of a pole, lattice tower or guyed mast. The actual tower will either act as an antenna itself or support one or more antennas on its structure, such as a microwave dish. Telecommunication towers produce weak radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic energy (EME) exposure levels. National and international scientific opinion is that there is no substantiated evidence that living near the RF emissions poses a health risk.

What is the response?

Indicators:

Footpaths/Roads Stormwater Infrastructure Sydney Dam System (new indicator) Energy Demand (new indicator) Renewable Energy Technology (new indicator) Low and High Impact Telecommunications Facilities (new indicator) Stormwater Infrastructure As of the 2006/07 financial year, Sutherland Shire ratepayers are charged an annual Stormwater Management Service Charge, which is expected to help generate $1.77 million for new harvesting and reuse infrastructure, as well as upgrades and maintenance of ageing infrastructure. The Karimbla Road Reserve in Miranda won the Sustainable Water Challenge Project in 2006. Council acquired 1.35Ha of public open space and implemented Water Sensitive Urban Design principles (WSUD) to build a popular public reserve. Stormwater harvesting has been successful with a 25,000 Litre tank capturing stormwater and preventing erosion and flooding in the nearby residential area. At the Como Pleasure Grounds a 61,000 Litre tank has been installed for facility irrigation. This stormwater harvesting prevents erosion and takes pressure off the sewer mains. Current works include the Cronulla Park stormwater irrigation project. This project includes a 300,000 Litre underground water tank that captures stormwater and can be used in public toilets and for facility irrigation. The Business Incubator WSUD demonstration project on the Loftus campus of the Southern Sydney Institute of TAFE is being monitored, and has so far shown excellent results in water saving. In the 2005/06 financial year 245 kL of rainwater were captured and 360 kL of water was used for flushing, signifying a (70%) savings of mains water. The Lucas Heights Sporting complex has a large area of sporting fields including ovals, a golf driving range and a number of sheds and facilities. A 40 Megalitre Dam has been built at the facility to provide irrigation for the golf course and sports oval. Additional stormwater projects include:

John Dwyer Oval at Caringbah: using stormwater to irrigate the playing field Grays Point Soccer at Angle Road, Grays Point: using stormwater to irrigate two fields Bangor Football Club: preparing a Development Application for the installation of stormwater mining at Billa Road Ova The Ridge Sports Complex, Fields 1 and 2: stormwater project currently under construction

Sydney Dam System The NSW Government has developed the Metropolitan Water Plan to ensure that sufficient water is available over time to meet the growing needs of the area, rivers are protected and kept healthy; and that planning is conducted to help withstand current and future droughts and impacts from climate change. Plans for achieving this include focusing on recycling, accessing deep water in the Sydney Dams, ensuring efficient use of water, reducing leaks, and having drought proof solutions at the ready, such as groundwater and desalination. The core elements of the Plan are:

Page 108 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 109 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council To increase and diversify water supplies to insure against drought To increase water supplies to serve a growing population To increase recycling to save drinking water for drinking purposes – increase volume of recycled water to 70 billion litres a year by 2015 and 100 billion litres by 2032. To reduce demand for water by using water wisely – to save 145 billion litres of water a year by 2015 To improve river and catchment health to protect the environment To encourage innovation and further recycling by the private sector

Sydney Water’s efforts to conserve water include:

increasing large scale water recycling and reuse; proactive reduction of main breaks and leaks; deferring precautionary cleaning of water mains; and undertaking audits of 64 government sites to achieve (25%) to (30%) water efficiency gains

Sydney Water is in the process of constructing a $2 billion desalination plant in the Sutherland Shire’s Kurnell foreshore which will provide (15%) of Sydney’s water demand in future. Council is working with Sydney Water and the NSW State Government to ensure that there is minimal impact to the surrounding natural environment and the local community of Kurnell. Sydney Water has offered Sutherland Shire Council treated wastewater from Cronulla Sewerage Treatment Plant (CSTP) for watering playing fields and parks in the surrounding area. An estimated saving of 373 million litres of water each year is expected if used for Council playing field irrigation. Household Consumption and Infrastructure Sydney has seen a reduction in per capita water consumption, with total usage levels similar to those of 1974 despite population increase. With a low demand for water, less pressure is put on critical infrastructure. A dramatic fall in annual consumption from 2002 onwards can be attributed to the mandatory water restrictions that were implemented due to drought. However, Australia remains the second biggest consumer of fresh water per capita in the world at a total of 18,767 GL consumed in the annual period of 2004/05. The Sutherland Shire has an above average annual household consumption rate the same as Sydney. Households using the least water in Sydney were in Kiama where consumption was 162 kL per household and highest was in Woollahra using 306 kL per household. Sydney’s average is 209 kL and Sutherland Shire’s is also 209 kL per household per year. As part of the Sutherland Shire Council’s Strategic Plan, the Shape the Shire Community Survey was distributed to households across the Shire which included questions on what activities individuals would take part in to reduce climate change, by changes in lifestyle including how they would reduce water consumption. Respondents were given a ratings system of “Already do”, “Would do”, “Would consider”, “Would not do” or “Not Applicable”.

Table: Activities to Conserve Water

Activities to Conserve Water

Activity Already Would Would Would NA do do consider not do Install a water saving showerhead 59% 14% 15% 9% 3% Plant drought resistant plants and trees in your garden 49% 32% 10% 3% 6% Landscape yard to increase the water permeable area 30% 34% 21% 5% 10% Support street tree planting 25% 54% 12% 6% 3% Install a rainwater tank 12% 39% 33% 6% 11% Re-use greywater 12% 40% 38% 7% 4% Support recycling of ALL types of water 11% 44% 36% 8% 2%

*Source: Shape the Shire Community Survey 2006

This table shows that the top three water conservation activities that people already do or would do included installing a water saving showerhead, planting drought resistant plants and landscaping the yard to increase water permeable area. Sutherland Shire residents have saved 81,000 Litres per household annually between 2002/03 and 2006/07, lowering the annual household consumption to 225,000 Litres. However, the three least likely activities were to support recycling of all types of water, re-use greywater, or to install a rainwater tank. Page 110 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 111 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Energy Demand In December 2007, the NSW State Government released the draft South Subregional Strategy, which has been developed to implement the Metropolitan Strategy at the local level. The aim for the subregional strategies is to act as a broad framework for the long term development of an area, guiding government investment and linking local and State planning issues. The strategy identifies opportunities for renewal around centres and providing a greater mix of housing, and protecting the region's environment and lifestyle. The main issue that the draft strategy covers pertaining to the Sutherland Shire is the concern over management of the Kurnell peninsula. This concern includes ensuring critical energy infrastructure to support the area. Projects include:

132KV transmission line refurbishment Sydney South to Kurnell Kirrawee zone substation install additional 132/11KV transformers Rebuild Kurnell 132/33KV switchyard Renewable Energy Technology

The Federal Government has a target of (20%) renewable energy use in Australia by 2020, which means an additional 60,000 GWh of production. Sydney Water has committed to buying a minimum of 180,000 Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) per year from the Bungendore wind station to prove its usage of the renewable source. The installation of the wind station means that NSW supply of wind power will be increased by (700%), but does not supply additional energy for other sectors unless the Desalination Plant is not in use. Sutherland Shire Council has subscribed to Planet Footprint’s Energy and Water Program, which means that Council’s electricity, streetlights, gas and water costs and consumption are monitored and benchmarked against other local government areas. As part of Sutherland Shire Council’s Strategic Plan, the Shape the Shire Community Survey was distributed to households across the Shire which included Page 114 of 208 questions on what activities individuals would take part in to reduce climate change including reduced energy consumption. Respondents were given a ratings system of “Already do”, “Would do”, “Would consider”, “Would not do” or “Not Applicable”.

Table: Activity to Reduce Electricity

Activity to Reduce Electricity

Activity Already Would Would Would NA do do consider not do Replace your light globes with energy efficient ones 61% 23% 9% 4% 2% Purchase 'green' energy 12% 25% 51% 8% 4% Use solar power to generate electricity 5% 29% 52% 9% 4%

*Source: Shape the Shire Community Survey 2006

This table shows a very high response was given for replacing light globes with energy efficienct ones. An overwhelming (88%) of respondents either would consider, would do, or already do purchase ‘green’ electricity. This proves that there is strong interest from residents in Sutherland Shire for renewable energy sources. However, only (5%) of respondents reported that they already use solar power.

Telecommunication Towers In 1997 Sutherland Shire Council was one of the first Councils in Australia to adopt the policy on telecommunication and radiocommunication tower development. The policy was implemented in response to growing resident concern with the increasing number of towers in Sutherland Shire. The policy was revised in 2003 with the Telecommunications and Radiocommunications Development Control Plan. Council is committed to maintain objectives for the dissemination of information to stakeholders and the general public, and the adequate assessment of the suitability of sites. Additionally, the implementation of urban design principles and the provision of equitable availability of locations to carriers, and assurance that carrier accepts liability for all impacts associated with maintenance of their infrastructure, are key objectives for Council.

Appendix 1 - Stormwater Drainage Program Completed Projects 2004/05-2007/08 (PDF - 76KB) Appendix 2 - Stormwater quality improvement device installations 2005/06-2006/07 (PDF - 77KB)

What is the indicator? Acknowledgment of the importance of historically and culturally significant places to the Shire’s identity for both current and for future generations

What is the indicator?

Indicators:

Number of Heritage Items

Suggestions for future indicators are:

Number and value of Grants for Cultural Heritage Projects

Number of Heritage Items Control over, and responsibility for, heritage sites and items is shared between Sutherland Shire Council and the Heritage Council (an independent State Government body responsible for administering and enforcing the NSW Heritage Act, 1977). Heritage items are listed through a heritage schedule attached to Local and Regional Environmental Plans prepared under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act (1979). A register of heritage items is provided in the Sutherland Shire Local Environment Plan 2006.

What is happening?

Indicators:

Number of Heritage Items Number of Heritage Items State Currently there are more than 100 archaeological non-Aboriginal sites and over 350 built and landscape heritage items. Sites that are of Aboriginal significance have been identified and recorded for their conservation and protection. Pressure Sutherland Shire has a unique character that is reflected in its cultural and natural heritage. Culturally, Sutherland Shire has an extensive history of Aboriginal occupation and European settlement. Its cultural, historical and archaeological sites are a record of the past many of which are known and documented, yet there are, potentially, numerous other sites and artefacts in Sutherland Shire yet to be discovered. Significant trees and landform features also make up much of the Shire’s natural heritage and in many cases, the landscape setting of the cultural, historical or archaeological site is as important to preserve as the actual item itself. With an extensive number of heritage items within the shire, heritage is seen as an element that creates the uniqueness of the area. With this heritage comes a sense of identity and association for residents of the Shire. The major pressures on the Shire’s heritage are through neglect, theft, vandalism, deterioration caused from exposure to the natural elements and urban development. Particularly at risk are Aboriginal sites of heritage significance and maritime wrecks.

What is the response?

Indicators:

Number of Heritage Items Stormwater Infrastructure Sutherland Shire Council’s response to the pressures on heritage during 2007/08 includes the following:

Provision of a Heritage Building Grant of $25,000 for the restoration and conservation work to heritage listed buildings and structures in Sutherland Shire. Up to 15 heritage listed property owners were awarded grants for various projects. Heritage Publication Grants were offered to local groups, progress associations and historical societies to record, edit and publish heritage publications about the history of the Sutherland Shire and its suburbs. Council is continuing to provide specialist heritage architectural advice to property owners at no cost to the owner. Liaising with NSW National Parks and Wildlife to identify and conserve Aboriginal sites. Staff members from Sutherland Shire Council attended an Aboriginal Site Awareness course run by the Cultural Heritage Unit of the Department of Environment and Climate Change As a commitment to continuing education, senior assessment staff ran briefing sessions on Aboriginal Site Awareness to development assessment staff and others. Sutherland Shire Council updated its Aboriginal Heritage Information Licence Agreement with the Department of Environment and Climate Change. Now covering a large part of the Royal National Park, the data licence agreement with DECC provides Council officers with information on the location and description of Aboriginal sites in Sutherland Shire. Council supported the inclusion in its Heritage listings of the award winning “Muller House” designed by modernist architect Harry Seidler at Lilli Pilli. The Cronulla Peninsula Parks Conservation Management Plan commissioned by Sutherland Shire Council’s Parks and Waterways unit provides polices, guidelines and actions that will allow for the appropriate conservation and future uses of the Parks of the Cronulla peninsula. The following parks are covered by this Plan: Dunningham Park Cronulla Park Shelly Park Oak Park Salmon Haul Reserve Darook Park Gunnamatta Park Tonkin Park Monro Park

The following key points are addressed in the Plan:

Assessment of available physical, documentary and other evidence including a thorough record of existing features, Consideration of the cultural significance of the existing trees and associated structures and the landscape elements. Consideration of the expectations of the local community within the context of the retention and enhancement of the significant heritage values of the place; The balanced and compatible management of cultural and natural heritage values of the place in the context of Cronulla,

Indicators:

Number of Heritage Items Stormwater Infrastructure Sutherland Shire Council’s response to the pressures on heritage during 2007/08 includes the following:

The following key points are addressed in the Plan:

Sutherland Shire Council has developed a Conservation Management Plan (CMP) for that part of Lilli Pilli Point Reserve located to the east of Lilli Pilli Point Road. The CMP encompasses the ecology, Aboriginal and historical heritage of the Lilli Pilli Point reserve. The CMP is consistent with the principles of the Burra Charter and has been prepared in accordance with current best practice guidelines as identified in the Heritage Office, Department of Planning, NSW Heritage manual and associated documents. The NSW Heritage Act (1977) is the primary legislative tool used to protect items and places of natural and cultural heritage. The Act also provides for heavy penalties for offences undertaken that may compromise the integrity of an item of heritage significance.

MinimisationWhat is of the the environmental, indicator? economic and social impacts of disasters

What is the indicator?

Indicators:

Financial Assistance provided to the local emergency services Research Reports on the impacts of climate change on the Sutherland Shire

Financial assistance provided to the local emergency services The ability to respond quickly and effectively to disasters is vital. On going financial assistance given to emergency services ensures that adequate resources are maintained and provided. Research reports on the impacts of climate change on the Sutherland Shire Understanding the potential role of climate change on the natural and urban environment ensures that appropriate measures can be undertaken to minimise its impact. Research will play an important role in determining the risks to the environment and how Council will respond to climate change over time.

What is happening?

Indicators:

Financial Assistance provided to the local emergency services Research Reports on the impacts of climate change on the Sutherland Shire

Severe flooding, bushfires, adverse weather conditions and pollution from hazardous industries can have a major impact on the natural, social and economic environment. In Sutherland Shire the greatest risk to the environment comes from bushfires, flooding and storm damage. The predicted change to climate through global warming is likely to increase the risk of disasters occurring.

What is the response?

Indicators:

Financial Assistance provided to the local emergency services Research Reports on the impacts of climate change on the Sutherland Shire

While much of the research and risk assessment work on climate change needs to be undertaken at state and federal levels, Council will conduct its own studies of the possible risks to the Shire. This will enable Council to develop strategies to minimise or deal with the potential risks. A preliminary study has commenced and is expected to be completed in 2009 and used to identify strategies for the Sutherland Shire Local Environment Plan 2010. With regard to flooding risk, Council is conducting studies for Kurnell, the Lower Georges River and Gwawley Bay from which a Risk Management Plan for the Botany Bay Floodplain will be developed. The arrangements for the prevention of, preparation for, response to and recovery from emergencies is detailed in the Sutherland Shire Local Disaster Plan (DisPlan). Individual operational procedures and operational plans are prepared, maintained and reviewed by the "combat agencies", NSW Police, NSW Ambulance, NSW Fire Brigades, NSW Rural Fire Service and State Emergency Services. Council is not a combat agency. Council provides financial support to NSW Fire Brigades, the NSW Rural Fire Service and State Emergency Services. Council provides plant, equipment and buildings for the use of staff and volunteers in the NSW Rural Fire Service and volunteers in the State Emergency Services. During 2007/08 Council commenced the upgrade of the Woronora Bush Fire Station including the provision of a floating facility to house three (3) fire boats. Assistance of $250,000 was provided to assist the construction of a new bushfire station at Engadine and planning for the relocation of the Kurnell station. $80,000 has been provided for the purchase of new fire fighting equipment. Under a service level agreement with New South Wales Rural Fire Services (RFS), hazard reduction burns and community education activities will be undertaken by the RFS. While Council will enforce bushfire compliance for building works submitted through the DA assessment process, the RFS is responsible for monitoring and enforcement of bushfire vegetation buffer zones. Council staff also provide administration and operational assistance to all combat agencies in emergencies through the Local Emergency Officer (LEMO). The LEMO is also chair of the Local Emergency Management Committee that meets regularly to discuss emergency management issues, recent emergencies and to arrange exercises to test emergency management responses to potential multi- disciplinary events.

AWhat low waste is future the - avoid, indicator? reduce, reuse, recycle - with best practice waste disposal

What is the indicator?

Indicators:

Domestic waste generated Construction and demolition waste Waste Licences (new indicators) Waste collected from public places Illegal dumping

Domestic waste generated is measured in tonnes and is broken into type of waste and waste generated per capita. Waste is collected through the 120 litre waste bin, the 240 litre co-mingled bin, the 240 litre greenwaste bin and twice yearly household cleanup, the amount collected is then recorded. Total domestic waste generated by type and per capita is compared to previous years to determine if we are heading towards or away from the NSW State Government target of (66%) diversion from landfill by 2014 as outlined in the Waste Avoidance and Resource Recovery (WARR) strategy 2007 (Department of Environment and Climate Change). Construction and demolition waste (C&D Waste) is generated through the building and construction industry and contains recoverable materials such as concrete, soil, timber, clay products and ferrous metals. It also contains nonrecoverable materials such as asbestos and asbestos- contaminated materials, contaminated soils, and fine-size particle from mixed C&D waste. The NSW State Government regularly audits the construction industry to determine the percentage of C&D waste going to landfill and whether they are moving towards or away from the target of (76%) diversion from landfill by 2014 set under the WARR strategy 2007. Waste licences are issued to some industries for the production, sorting, transport and/or disposal of waste material. The Department of Environment and Climate Change under the Protection of the Environment Operations (POEO) Act 1997 issues and monitors these licences to ensure they meet strict environmental and processing guidelines. Waste and recycling is collected by Council from public places including street bins, parks, ovals and festivals and events. Council runs a street sweeping program to collect organic and non-organic waste from our streets and gutters to prevent it from entering our waterways. Illegal dumping includes dumping of building refuse, household materials, garden refuse, the abandonment of cars and any other waste that is placed in an unauthorised location. Illegal dumping impacts on the visual amenity of streets, attracts vermin and can impact on the biodiversity of our natural area. It also imposes additional costs to Council for the investigation and removal of the illegally dumped waste.

What is happening?

Indicators:

Domestic waste generated Construction and demolition waste Waste Licences (new indicators) Waste collected from public places Illegal dumping

Domestic Waste Generated State Domestic Waste Produced and collected in 2007/08 Graph: 2 Kg of Domestic Waste per capita Kg of Domestic Waste per capita

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

During 2007/08 a total of 101,895 tonnes of waste was generated. Of this amount 53.4% (54387 tonnes) was recycled or recovered and the remaining 46.6% (47508 tonnes) was sent to landfill. Waste totals recorded for the twice yearly clean-up does not include greenwaste. This is collected separately and included in the greenwaste total. Materials recovered and/or recycled from the twice yearly clean-up include mattresses, metals and wood. Each person in Sutherland Shire on average produces approximately 476 kgs per year.

Source: Enviro Works 2008

The following chart indicates the type of domestic waste generated.

Graph: Domestic Waste produced (tonnes) by type

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

Source: Enviro Works 2008

The following chart indicates the type of domestic waste generated.

Graph: Domestic Waste produced (tonnes) by type

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

Waste Facilities The Lucas Heights Waste and Recycling Centre have a maximum landfill capacity in the last remaining cell of 8.225 million tonnes. They are licensed to accept 575,000 tonnes a year until 2025. Currently the remaining capacity of the landfill is 7.4 million tonnes which equates to approximately 13 years. Currently 23 Councils take their domestic waste to the Lucas Heights Waste and Recycling Centre. Of the 23 Councils, 8 Councils take their waste directly to Lucas Heights and the remaining Councils take their waste to a transfer station located at Artarmon, Auburn, Chullora, Rockdale or Ryde prior to the waste being trucked to Lucas Heights. Pressure Sources of household waste in Sutherland Shire include household items, packaging waste, food waste, greenwaste, electronic waste, hazardous and chemical waste. The waste once collected is either taken to an appropriate location for recycling or recovery such as Visy or Pioneer Waste and Lucas Heights Waste and Recycling Centre. Waste that cannot be recycled or recovered is disposed of at landfill such as Lucas Heights Waste and Recycling Centre. The amount of domestic greenwaste collected in 2007/08 increased by 2,674 tonnes (13%) compared to 2006/07 figures. The amount of waste recovered or recycled through the co-mingled recycling bin and the clean-up also increased by 3,063 tonnes (11%). This is not necessarily an indication that more waste is being diverted from landfill as the amount of waste being sent to landfill also increased during 2007/08 by 979 tonnes (2.1%). More domestic waste was produced during 2007/08 than at any time in the last ten years. An increase in the amount of waste produced places pressure on our collection systems, landfills, recovery facilities and processing plants. It also increases the pressure on our environment through an increased contribution to green house emmissions from landfill gas and transportation of waste. The increase in waste also places pressure on the need for new resources to meet our growing demand for consumable products.

Construction and Demolition Waste State The Waste Avoidance and Resource Recovery Strategy 2007 indicates that approximately (29%) of all waste going to landfill is Construction and Demolition (C&D) waste. During 2004/05 in the Sydney Region, 1,305,500 tonnes of C&D waste was disposed of to landfill and 2,508,000 was recycled (66%). Of the materials that are sent to landfill, approximately (50%) has an opportunity for recovery. Pressure The amount of C&D waste disposed of to landfill in the Sydney region decreased by (9.91%) between 2002/03 and 2004/05. The amount of C&D waste recovered also decreased slightly in the same period by (0.12%). The total C&D waste diverted from landfill fell from (68%) to (66%) moving away from the NSW State’s target of (76%) recovered by 2014.

Waste Licences State There are currently 53 waste licences that have been issued to businesses within Sutherland Shire Local Government Area. Eleven of the businesses listed hold two or more waste licences. Businesses in the Sutherland Shire which have licences under the POEO Act (1997) have been listed in Appendix 3. Pressure Waste generated by certain industries that require a waste licence create a risk to human health and the environment through discharge of pollutants to the air, water or land. It can also result in excessive overuse of resources putting a strain on our environment. This is the first year that the data has been collected so pressures defined by the increase or decrease of waste licences cannot be measured.

Waste Collected from Public Places State Graph: Tonnes of waste collected from public places

Page 122 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 123 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council to Lucas Heights. Pressure Sources of household waste in Sutherland Shire include household items, packaging waste, food waste, greenwaste, electronic waste, hazardous and chemical waste. The waste once collected is either taken to an appropriate location for recycling or recovery such as Visy or Pioneer Waste and Lucas Heights Waste and Recycling Centre. Waste that cannot be recycled or recovered is disposed of at landfill such as Lucas Heights Waste and Recycling Centre. The amount of domestic greenwaste collected in 2007/08 increased by 2,674 tonnes (13%) compared to 2006/07 figures. The amount of waste recovered or recycled through the co-mingled recycling bin and the clean-up also increased by 3,063 tonnes (11%). This is not necessarily an indication that more waste is being diverted from landfill as the amount of waste being sent to landfill also increased during 2007/08 by 979 tonnes (2.1%). More domestic waste was produced during 2007/08 than at any time in the last ten years. An increase in the amount of waste produced places pressure on our collection systems, landfills, recovery facilities and processing plants. It also increases the pressure on our environment through an increased contribution to green house emmissions from landfill gas and transportation of waste. The increase in waste also places pressure on the need for new resources to meet our growing demand for consumable products.

Waste Collected from Public Places State Graph: Tonnes of waste collected from public places

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

During 2007/08 4,080 tonnes of waste was collected from public bins throughout parks and ovals within Sutherland Shire.

Graph: Volume of material swept from streets Volume of material swept from streets 1998/99 to 2006/07

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2007

As a result of Council’s street sweeping operations, 11,250m3 of organic material and sediment was swept from the roads during 2007/08. Pressure The amount of waste collected from public places and sent to landfill has increased by (7.34%) during 2007/08. This increase could be a result of more people depositing their waste in bins instead of littering which reduces pressure on our natural environment, or more public place waste is being generated putting more pressure on our landfills. Page 124 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 125 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council The amount of material collected through the street sweeping program has decreased by (6.94%) since a high in 2005/06. This reduction may result in an improvement of water quality. Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

During 2007/08 4,080 tonnes of waste was collected from public bins throughout parks and ovals within Sutherland Shire.

Graph: Volume of material swept from streets Volume of material swept from streets 1998/99 to 2006/07

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2007

As a result of Council’s street sweeping operations, 11,250m3 of organic material and sediment was swept from the roads during 2007/08. Pressure The amount of waste collected from public places and sent to landfill has increased by (7.34%) during 2007/08. This increase could be a result of more people depositing their waste in bins instead of littering which reduces pressure on our natural environment, or more public place waste is being generated putting more pressure on our landfills. The amount of material collected through the street sweeping program has decreased by (6.94%) since a high in 2005/06. This reduction may result in an improvement of water quality.

Illegal Dumping State There were 646 abandoned vehicles reported to Council during 2007/08. Council collected approximately 250 tonnes of material that had been illegally dumped on or around the streets of Sutherland Shire during 2007/08. Pressure There was a reduction in the number of abandoned cars from 757 in 2006/07 to 646 in 2007/08. The amount of illegally dumped material remained steady at 250 tonnes. Illegally dumped materials and cars have an impact on biodiversity, water quality, it can attract vermin and increases the impact on landfill and the environment.

What is the response?

Indicators:

Domestic waste generated Construction and demolition waste Waste Licences (new indicators) Waste collected from public places Illegal dumping Domestic Waste Woodchipping Service The woodchipping service was run during the daylight saving months of 2007/08 to collect additional greenwaste from residents and to supply it back to them as woodchips. During this program, 1293 vehicles visited the sites at Engadine and Miranda and 403m3 of greenwaste was returned for use to residents. This figure was lower than last year (468.5m3) due to five weeks being cancelled as a result of wet weather. Household Chemical Cleanout Collection A Household Chemical Cleanout Collection was held on Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 September 2007 from 9.00am to 3.00pm each day at the Bellingara Netball complex, Miranda. The collection was coordinated by the Department of Environment and Climate Change and supported by Sutherland Shire Council. The 2007 Household Chemical Cleanout was the largest ever held in Australia with 2415 cars dropping off over 76 tonnes of materials. Construction and Demolition Waste Sutherland Shire Council assisted the NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change between August 2007 and October 2007 in carrying out a waste audit on the construction and demolition industry. The aim of the audit was to determine whether Construction and Demolition Waste (C&D Waste) was being lawfully disposed of and to determine the level of knowledge of responsibility in terms of site managers and builders complying with the disposal of waste under the Protection of the Environment Operations (POEO) Act 1997. The level of recycling of building waste was also explored. Twenty two (22) construction sites in Sutherland Shire were audited for compliance with the removal and disposal of waste. The sites visited included:

Industrial developments Multi unit and villa development Single dwelling development

Of the 22 sites audited, 17 performed very well during the inspection and survey and the site managers were able to demonstrate that waste generated from the site was being disposed of in a responsible and lawful manner. Of the other five sites, four were issued S191 notices under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act (1997) by DECC and one was sent a request by the DECC for additional information such as disposal receipts to prove the legal disposal of waste. Waste licences The NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC) issues waste licences to business under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act (1997) (POEO Act). Waste licences are issued as a means to control localised, cumulative and acute impacts from industry. Businesses that emit certain types of waste as listed in schedule 1 of the POEO Act are required to apply for a waste licence from the DECC. Conditions that are enforced through waste licensing aim to prevent pollution, monitor polluting activities and encourage cleaner production practices. Businesses who hold waste licences are required to submit an annual return to the DECC outlining a statement of compliance to the licensing conditions.

Page 126 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 127 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Waste collected from public places Public Place Recycling Recycling bins were placed at events during 2007/08 including Australia Day 2008 festivities at Cronulla and Menai and the Jazz and Shiraz Festival also held at Cronulla. Approximately (60%) of waste from both events was recycled and diverted from landfill. Clean-up Australia Day Clean-up Australia Day was held on Sunday 2 March 2008 with Schools Clean-up on Friday 29 February 2008 and Business Clean-up on Tuesday 26 March 2008. Approximately 4,000 volunteers participated at 64 Clean-up sites, including one business site, (26) school sites and 37 registered community group sites. Over nine tonnes of rubbish was collected over the three scheduled Clean-up days. Illegal Dumping During 2007/08 Officers from the Regulation and Enforcement Unit (REU) undertook a number of targeted operations focussing on illegal rubbish dumping. These operations have been concentrated in the Barden Ridge / Lucas Heights and Royal National Parks area. This operation has resulted in offenders being apprehended on two separate occasions in the act of dumping waste and prosecution proceedings were commenced on fourteen (14) other instances for illegal dumping. In all instances penalty notices and clean up notices were issued to the offenders. Council’s REU Officers issued the following notices in relation to a variety of environmental offences that occurred within the Sutherland Shire during 2007/08.

Table: Notice issued regarding environmental offences 2007/08

Notice issued regarding environmental offences 2007/08

Notice of proposed ‘Order’ 83 – Up from 54 in 2006/07 Issued Notice of proposed ‘Order’ 40 – Up from 30 in 2006/07 Complied ‘Orders’ Issued 36 – Up from 24 in 2006/07 ‘Orders’ Complied (with) 25 – Up from 14 in 2006/07 - 8 proceeded to court (3 convictions 2 withdrawn, 1 no convictions, 2 still to be determined, 2 still active or work being undertaken) Clean Up Notices Issued 13 – Up from 7 in 2006/07 Clean Up Notices Complied 12- Up from 7 in 2006/07 (with) Prevention Notices Issued 2 – Up from 0 in 2006/07

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

Infringements are issued for environmental incidences to deter residents from undertaking illegal activity. The following infringement notices were issued during 2007/08.

Number of infringement notices and category

Table: Notice issued regarding environmental offences 2007/08

Notice issued regarding environmental offences 2007/08

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

Infringements are issued for environmental incidences to deter residents from undertaking illegal activity. The following infringement notices were issued during 2007/08.

Number of infringement notices and category

Infringement Title Infringement No. Infringements issued compared to Amount 2006/07 Infringement Title Infringement Amount No. Infringements issued compared to 2006/07 Deposit litter $200 7 (down from 11)

Deposit litter (corporation) $400 0 (down from 1) Deposit litter from vehicle (individual) $200 53 (up from 30)

Deposit litter from vehicle (corporation) $400 6 Unlawful transportation of waste (illegal dumping) $750 15 (up from 9)

Unlawful Transportation of Waste (illegal dumping – corporation) $1500 1 (same as 06/07)

Pollute waters $750 0 (decrease from 7)

Pollute Waters (corporation) $1500 1 (decrease from 2) Permit land to be used as a waste facility $1,500.00 0 Fail to comply with requirement under Chapter 7 of POEO Act – $500.00 6 individual Fail to comply with requirement under Chapter 7 of POEO Act – $1,000.00 1 corporation Fail to sufficiently cover load (uncovered load) $500.00 49 ( up from 46) Fail to comply with Clean Up Notice $750.00 0 (decrease from 3) Abandon motor vehicle $220.00 64 (increase from 30) Breach water restriction $220.00 1 ( decrease from 3)

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

New South Wales Police and officers from Council’s Regulation and Enforcement Unit (REU) have also undertaken a number pro-active operations regarding illegal trail bike riding along fire trails and other areas throughout the Shire. This has resulted in numerous motor bikes being impounded and has allowed sensitive areas to regenerate. Sutherland Shire Council after obtaining a grant from the Department of Environment and Climate Change for the ‘Dumping is Dumb’ Campaign, has continued this campaign throughout the year. This is a joint initiative between REU and Council’s Waste Services to run an education/enforcement campaign targeting dumping of waste outside multi-unit dwellings.

AbundantWhat andis Healthythe indicator? native flora and fauna

What is the indicator? Indicators:

Threatened species Change in tree canopy (bushland mapping) Tree removal applications and approvals (new indicator)

Threatened species are listed under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act 1999 and the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act (TSC) 1995. Each year, the Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC) (State) and the Federal Government considers the situation of many species of flora and fauna and makes a determination on whether they should be listed as vulnerable, endangered or extinct. Sutherland Shire Council also assesses local species and makes a determination on them. Council reviews this list each year to establish whether the state of terrestrial biodiversity is improving or declining. Change in tree canopy (bushland mapping) measures the amount of bushland, not individual trees that are removed in every five year period in the Sutherland Shire, as a result of development and illegal clearing. The change in tree canopy is measured as a percentage and as hectares lost or gained. Tree removal applications are submitted to Sutherland Shire Council by residents of Sutherland Shire for approval to remove one or more trees on private property. Approvals to remove trees can only be granted by Council. The numbers, types and location of trees removed or pruned is recorded and can be used to determine which suburbs request the greatest number of tree removals or pruning and what type of flora Sutherland Shire is losing in private properties.

What is happening?

Indicators:

Threatened species Change in tree canopy (bushland mapping) Tree removal applications and approvals (new indicator) Threatened species State Necessary action needs to be taken to avoid species becoming extinct. By maintaining biodiversity, support is given to ecosystems that provide oxygen, clean water, food, soil formation, breakdown and absorption of pollution. These contribute to climate stability and help the recovery of areas after destructive environmental events such as fires, flooding and strong winds. A Rapid Fauna Habitat Assessment of the Sydney Metropolitan Catchment Authority Area commissioned by the NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change (June 2008) was released on 1 September, 2008. The report findings indicated that Sutherland Shire has two of the most significant habitat areas of the Sydney Metropolitan Catchment. These areas are the Royal National Park and Towra Point. The report lists 13 sites within Sutherland Shire in the top 50 significant sites. (To view full list http://www.sydney.cma.nsw.gov.au/index.php? option=com_contentandtask=viewandid=98andItemid=47) In Sutherland Shire there are a number of threatened, vulnerable or locally significant flora and fauna species. The Southern Sydney Sheltered Forest on Transitional Sandstone soils was listed as a threatened community in 2007. It is found in the Southern areas of the Royal National Park and possibly in Prince Edward Park Road, Woronora and Grays Point. Black-hooded Sun Orchid (Thelymitra atronitida) found in Cape Solander, Botany Bay National Park was listed as Critically Endangered during 2007. The complete list is recorded in the Appendix. Pressure Threatening processes are processes that if not properly managed are likely to lead to the extinction of two or more threatened species. Threatening processes have been listed under the Threatened Species Conservation (TSC) Act 1995. Those that occur within Sutherland Shire include:

Invasion of native plant communities by Bitou Bush (Chrysanthemoides monifera); Predation by the European Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes); Predation by the Feral Cat (Felis catus); Predation by Plague Minnow (Gambusia holbrook); Bush rock removal; Ecological damage caused by Feral Rusa Deer (Cervus timorensis) in native plant communities; High frequency fire; Alteration to the natural flow regimes of rivers and streams and their floodplains and wetlands; Clearing of native vegetation; Competition and grazing by the feral European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus); Removal of dead wood and trees; Invasion of native plant communities by exotic perennial grasses; Infection of frogs by amphibian chytrid causing the disease chytridiomycosis; Infection of native plants by Phytophthora cinnamomi; Feral pigs; and Competition for hollows by feral honey bees.

New key threatening processes listed (07/08) include:

Alteration of habitat following subsidence due to longwall mining; Exotic vines and scramblers; and

Other pressures on threatened species not identified under the TSC Act 1995 include:

Degradation of bushland through the invasion of noxious and environmental weeds; Excessive and inappropriate use of urban bushland reserves such as trampling, destruction of vegetation and soil erosion caused by off-road vehicles, dumping of rubbish and garden refuse and use of vegetation to fuel barbeques and fires; The clearing of land for development purposes and urban infrastructure including road and rail construction and electricity easements; Urban runoff that contains concentrations of copper, zinc, lead, sediment, grease and oils that are toxic to plants and fertilisers soil and bacteria that change the nutrient levels of our bushland areas; and Exotic invasion of species that compete with native flora and fauna.

Change in tree canopy (bushland mapping) State Sutherland Shire supports a rich diversity of flora and fauna in its National Parks, steep river valleys and wetlands and residential properties. In Sutherland Shire, the diversity of flora and fauna is contained and supported in a number of key vegetation communities. These communities include:

Estuarine Complex; Rainforests; Tall Open (Shale) Forest; Shale/Sandstone Transition Complex; Sydney Sandstone Gully Forest; Sydney Sandstone Ridgetop Woodland; Sydney Sandstone Heathland; Sand Dune Communities; and Freshwater Wetlands.

The introduction of the ESRI-GIS mapping system in Sutherland Shire Council’s Land and Information Unit has given Council the opportunity to accurately map the bushland throughout Sutherland Shire. The first vegetation mapping exercise with ESRI – GIS was undertaken in 2002 and the vegetation mapping was correlated with the aerial photos for 2001. Recently an updated vegetation layer was completed using the 2006 aerial photography. The 2006 bushland vegetation layer with the different communities and locations can be seen on the following map.

Map: Sutherland Shire Vegetation Mapping 2006

Other pressures on threatened species not identified under the TSC Act 1995 include:

Map: Sutherland Shire Vegetation Mapping 2006 West of Shire

East of Shire

Page 132 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 133 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council These two vegetation layers, five years apart, provide important statistical information regarding changes to the vegetation over this period of time. The vegetation mapping focused on bushland areas and not individual or small groupings of trees. The mapping also does not indicate the quality of the bushland as it provides no information on the structure, composition or the weed infestation, except on a few occasions where the community has been classified as degraded. Pressure Bushland vegetation cover for Sutherland Shire in 2001 was approximately 6,017.9 hectares. By 2006, this figure had decreased (1.4%) to 5,933.3 hectares. In the five years between 2001 and 2006, 84.6 hectares of bushland has been cleared in Sutherland Shire. The mapping does not include Holsworthy Military Area, Heathcote National Park or the Royal National Park. A comparison of vegetation community sizes can be seen on the table below including the amount lost per community in hectares (Ha) between 2001 and 2006.

Graph: Bushland Vegetation Community Size - including 5 year losses Bushland Vegetation Community Size - including 5 year losses

Source: Sutherland Shire Council Land Information Unit 2008

The largest amount of vegetation to be cleared from a particular community was 31.7 hectares (2.7%) of the Sydney Sandstone Ridgetop Woodland. This community is highly vulnerable because as the name suggests it is found on ridge tops which are highly favourable for development. Very little of this community now exists in the eastern part of the Shire. The majority of the remaining community is found west of the Woronora River in large parcels of land, including privately owned land. Another vegetation community within the Sutherland Shire which experienced significant loss was the Coastal Dune Heath where approximately 23.3 hectares (6.5%) was lost as a result of sand mining. The community most affected by land clearing in the period from 2001 to 2006 was an endangered ecological community, Swamp Sclerophyll Forest. Approximately 6.7 hectares (16.9%) of this community was lost through development and illegal clearing. Only 32.8 hectares remain in the Sutherland Shire. Losses to this community and other endangered ecological communities can be seen on the following chart.

Graph: Endangered Ecological Community Size - including 5 year losses

Graph: Bushland Vegetation Community Size - including 5 year losses Bushland Vegetation Community Size - including 5 year losses

Source: Sutherland Shire Council Land Information Unit 2008

Graph: Endangered Ecological Community Size - including 5 year losses Endangered Ecological Community Size - including 5 year losses

Source: Sutherland Shire Council Land Information Unit 2008

The largest vegetation community found in Sutherland Shire is the Sydney Sandstone Gully Forest. It is mainly found west of the Woronora River but also in the Forbes and Loftus Creek catchments. This community has survived because of the more inaccessible terrain making it difficult for development.

Tree removal applications and approvals State In March 2008, the process for applying for a tree on private property to be pruned or removed changed. The new process allows Council to identify areas where vegetation on private property is being removed and what species are being removed. The new process also provides a mechanism for replacement of trees that are removed that may be more suitable for the area. The suburb with the most tree prune or removal applications is Caringbah South with Engadine, Sylvania and Kirrawee with the next highest. The suburbs with the least amount of applications are Sandy Point, Dolans Bay, Grays Point, Maianbar and Kurnell. The following chart lists the suburbs in Sutherland Shire and the type and quantity of tree prune or removal applications.

Graph: Tree Removal determinations March – June 2008

Source: Sutherland Shire Council Land Information Unit 2008

Graph: Tree Removal determinations March – June 2008

Source: Sutherland Shire Council Land Information Unit

A total of 1721 tree applications were received during the period March – June 2008.

There were 50 applications for trees that are exempt from applying for a tree removal or prune application. These species of trees are listed in Sutherland Shire Local Environment Plan 2006. There were 596 applications to prune trees. The most common type of tree requested to prune was eucalypt gum. Of the applications, 14 were refused permission to prune. There were 717 applications to remove trees. The most common type of tree requested to be removed was gum. Of the applications, 248 were refused permission to remove tree. There were seven applications to review refused applications to remove or prune tree. Six of these reviews were upheld with only one application being approved after review.

Pressure The available data is for the period March – June 2008. Data was not collected prior to this date so comparison with previous periods is not possible. The pressure from the removal of trees lies with the destruction of fauna habitat. Many of the trees applied to be removed are natives of a mature age. Many of these trees provide shelter for bird and animal life which is lost when the tree is removed. Often tree removal permission is accompanied by conditions to plant new suitable trees in the same or nearby location; however, immature trees do not instantly provide the same shelter as mature trees reducing the available fauna habitat for many years.

What is the response?

Indicators:

Threatened species Change in tree canopy (bushland mapping) Tree removal applications and approvals (new indicator) What is the Response? Threatened species Bushcare Bushcare undertakes bush regeneration on public land owned by Sutherland Shire Council. There are currently 633 active volunteers registered in 172 sites around the Shire, including 83 new volunteers and three new sites since 2006/07. The number of active volunteers has decreased by 316 since 2006/07 shown in the results of a recent survey. The number of non-active friends of Bushcare has increased to over 850 members. As well as actively managing remnant bushland reserves, Bushcare volunteers and Council’s Bushland unit are involved in a range of educational activities. Last year 18 people attended the ‘introduction to bush regeneration” course and 131 people attended other workshops such as plant identification. Bushwalks provide an opportunity for learning about the Shire's native flora and fauna and raise awareness of the value of bushland. Eight bushwalks through The Glen Reserve, Burnum Burnum Sanctuary, Bundeena and Prince Edwards Park were attended by 173 people.

Table: Bushcare activities

Bushcare activities

Activity No. of people attending Total Hours Bushcare Group Work Days Active volunteers 13,856 Introduction to Bush Regeneration 18 211 Educational Workshops 131 934.5 Quarterly Bushcare Workshop 132 396 Seed Collection 22 77 Nursery propagation 12 324.5 Bushwalks 173 598 BushWackers 109 348 Annual Barbecue 200 600 National Tree Day 293 507 Community Groups 630 1588 Corporate Groups 57 309.5 Total 1,777 19,750

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

With volunteer hours valued at $30 per hour the contribution of volunteers to the management of the Shire’s bushland totalled $592,500. The most recent Sydneywide survey by Sydney Metropolitan Catchment Management Authority of volunteers and hours dedicated to on-ground environmental projects showed that Sutherland Shire contributed the most hours of all local government areas. Nursery

Indicators:

Table: Bushcare activities

Bushcare activities

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

Summary of plants issued by Council’s nursery

Issued to Number of Plants Issued Bushcare 21,000 Greenweb 4,756 Schools 2,463 Tree Issue 8,732 Community Groups 2,356 Total 39,307

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

The nursery specialises in supplying plants grown from locally sourced seeds and cuttings. These local plants have the best chance of surviving in local conditions and will be supplied for local revegetation projects and for residents to plant in their backyards therefore decreasing the risk of threatened species becoming extinct. Reduction in feral animals Sutherland Shire Council employed a full time Pest Species Officer during 2007/08 to reduce the pressure of feral animals on our native species. A number of methods were employed to capture and destroy pest species including baiting, trapping, culling and euthanasia. The work was undertaken by Council staff, contracted staff and members of the public. Council assisted members of the public by providing a variety of training courses, workshops and conferences. Council staff conducted 169 Pest Control training inductions for members of the public and also co-ordinated the Kurnell and Lucas Heights Pest Fox Baiting workshops. These workshops were held in conjunction with the Department of Lands, the Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC), Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), the Sydney Metro Catchment Management Authority (SMCMA) and nine private landholders within the areas. Council staff received grant funding from the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI), The Department of Lands and the SMCMA to control feral deer, foxes and rabbits. The following table indicates the number of feral deer, foxes and rabbits eradicated through the pest species control program.

Table: Feral Animals Eradicated 2007/08 by Catchment

Feral Animals Eradicated 2007/08 by Catchment

Catchment Number of Feral Deer Number of Feral Rabbit Number of Feral Fox eradicated eradicated eradicated Pacific Ocean 17 5 88 Port Hacking 83 66 15 Hacking River 35 144 8 Botany - 4 106 Woronora - 23 2 River Georges River - 81 10 Total 135 323 229

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

Indian Myna birds were eradicated through two methods. The first method involved the Pest Species Officer loaning private property owners Indian Myna traps and assisting them to set up and operate the traps. The other method involved Indian Myna trap building workshops. Council ran three workshops attended by 60 residents. A total of 48 traps were built as a result of the workshops. Council officers assisted in euthanizing the Indian Myna birds after being trapped. The following table indicates the number of Indian Myna birds eradicated as a result of efforts.

Page 136 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Table: Number of Indian Myna Birds Eradicated Page 2007/08 137 by method Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Table: Summary of plants issued by Council’s nursery <

Summary of plants issued by Council’s nursery

Issued to Number of Plants Issued Bushcare 21,000 Greenweb 4,756 Schools 2,463 Tree Issue 8,732 Community Groups 2,356 Total 39,307

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

Table: Feral Animals Eradicated 2007/08 by Catchment

Feral Animals Eradicated 2007/08 by Catchment

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

Table: Number of Indian Myna Birds Eradicated 2007/08 by method

Number of Indian Myna Birds Eradicated 2007/08 by method

Method of capture (Sutherland Shire Number of Indian Myna’s wide) eradicated Trap loan program / Pest Species Officer 1,073 trapping Co-ordination by SSC of private trap building >500 Total >1,573

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

Council officers redeveloped a Memorandum of Understanding with the NSW Parks and Wildlife Service and their safety and procedural plans to ensure that pest animal control programs are undertaken in a safe and humane manner. Reduction in noxious weeds and pests In Australia weeds are the second greatest threat to biodiversity after land clearing. Australian’s spend over $4 billion per year managing the weed problem. Sutherland Shire Council employed two full time noxious weeds officers during 2007/08 to reduce noxious weed infestations within Sutherland Shire. Officers undertook work at 567 Council owned properties and bushland areas of which 390 sites were not bushland sites and 30 were wetland inspections. The following table indicates the type of noxious weeds targeted and the location.

Table: Types of Noxious Weed Identified 2007/08

Types of Noxious Weed Identified 2007/08 by Location

Noxious Weed Locations Alligator Weed Como, Illawong, Woolooware, Barden Ridge, Engadine, and Waterfall Bitou Bush Kurnell, Cronulla, Barden Ridge, and Bangor Boneseed Heathcote, Illawong, Loftus, Yarrawarrah, Bundeena, and Kurnell Blackberry Bangor, Barden Ridge, Engadine, Gymea Bay, Illawong, Jannali, Kareela, Kurnell, Loftus, Menai, Sylvania, Grays Point, Sutherland, Yarrawarrah and Woronora Castor Oil Plant Engadine, Kurnell, Woolooware, Sylvania, Barden Ridge, Heathcote, Woronora, Taren Point and Sutherland Green Cestrum Bundeena, Jannali, Kirrawee, Maianbar, Miranda Sylvania, Taren Point and Caringbah Lantana Barden Ridge, Burraneer, Cronulla, Kurnell, Engadine, Kareela, Loftus, Oyster Bay, Sutherland, Gymea, Grays Point, Illawong, Menai, Woolooware, Sylvania, Taren Point and Yarrawarrah Ludwigia Como, Menai, Illawong, Kurnell, Grays Point, Engadine, Loftus, Jannali, Yowie Bay and Oyster Bay Pampas Grass Barden Ridge, Illawong, Jannali, Kurnell, Maianbar, Bundeena, Loftus, Menai, Caringbah, Taren Point and Waterfall Rhus Tree Bangor, Loftus, Heathcote, Yarrawarrah, Miranda and Sutherland Pellitory (Asthma Como, Cronulla, Gymea, Sutherland, Caringbah, Burraneer, Miranda, Kurnell, Sylvania, Menai, Barden Ridge, Loftus, Weed) Kirrawee and Taren Point

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

Method of capture (Sutherland Shire Number of Indian Myna’s wide) eradicated Trap loan program / Pest Species Officer 1,073 trapping Co-ordination by SSC of private trap building >500 Total >1,573

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

Table: Types of Noxious Weed Identified 2007/08

Types of Noxious Weed Identified 2007/08 by Location

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

Noxious Weeds officers have been involved in release and monitoring programs involving two biological agents that aim to control Bitou Bush on the Kurnell Peninsular. Bitou Bush leaf rolling moth (Tortrix sp.) was released at Bonna Point as part of a joint program involving Greenweb Officer, Kurnell Public School, the The Department of Education and Training (DET) and the Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC). Samples were also collected for the Bitou Bush seed fly (Mesoclanis polana) in a program coordinated with the Department of Primary Industries (DPI). In other areas of the Kurnell Peninsular, Noxious Weed Officers organised and coordinated with the Department of Lands (Soil Services) and DECC an aerial spray program to treat 100 hectares of Bitou Bush during May 2008, including 30 hectares along the Kurnell Peninsular. Noxious Weeds Officers are also involved in the removal and control of noxious weeds on 25 hectares of land such as Blackberry, Boneseed, Asthma Weed, Pampas Grass, Ludwigia, Green Cestrum and new incursions of Coolatai grass, Orobanche, Pampas Lilly of the Valley, Tree of Heaven, African Olive, Egeria and Senecio angularis. Various aquatic weeds, in particular Alligator Weed and Salvinia were also targeted. Grant funding was obtained from the DPI, the Department of Lands and the Sydney Metro Catchment Management Authority (SMCMA) to carry out some of the weed control programs. These two vegetation layers, five years apart, provide important statistical information regarding changes to the vegetation over this period of time. The vegetation mapping focused on bushland areas and not individual or small groupings of trees. The mapping also does not indicate the quality of the bushland as it provides no information on the structure, composition or the weed infestation, except on a few occasions where the community has been classified as degraded. Pressure Bushland vegetation cover for Sutherland Shire in 2001 was approximately 6,017.9 hectares. By 2006, this figure had decreased (1.4%) to 5,933.3 hectares. In the five years between 2001 and 2006, 84.6 hectares of bushland has been cleared in Sutherland Shire. The mapping does not include Holsworthy Military Area, Heathcote National Park or the Royal National Park. A comparison of vegetation community sizes can be seen on the table below including the amount lost per community in hectares (Ha) between 2001 and 2006.

Graph: Bushland Vegetation Community Size - including 5 year losses Bushland Vegetation Community Size - including 5 year losses

Source: Sutherland Shire Council Land Information Unit 2008

The largest amount of vegetation to be cleared from a particular community was 31.7 hectares (2.7%) of the Sydney Sandstone Ridgetop Woodland. This community is highly vulnerable because as the name suggests it is found on ridge tops which are highly favourable for development. Very little of this community now exists in the eastern part of the Shire. The majority of the remaining community is found west of the Woronora River in large parcels of land, including privately owned land. Another vegetation community within the Sutherland Shire which experienced significant loss was the Coastal Dune Heath where approximately 23.3 hectares (6.5%) was lost as a result of sand mining. The community most affected by land clearing in the period from 2001 to 2006 was an endangered ecological community, Swamp Sclerophyll Forest. Approximately 6.7 hectares (16.9%) of this community Page 138 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council was lost through development and illegal clearing. Page Only 13932.8 hectares remain Copyright in the ©Sutherland 2009 Sutherland Shire. Shire Losses Council to this community and other endangered ecological communities can be seen on the following chart.

Graph: Endangered Ecological Community Size - including 5 year losses These two vegetation layers, five years apart, provide important statistical information regarding changes to the vegetation over this period of time. The vegetation mapping focused on bushland areas and not individual or small groupings of trees. The mapping also does not indicate the quality of the bushland as it provides no information on the structure, composition or the weed infestation, except on a few occasions where the community has been classified as degraded. Pressure Bushland vegetation cover for Sutherland Shire in 2001 was approximately 6,017.9 hectares. By 2006, this figure had decreased (1.4%) to 5,933.3 hectares. In the five years between 2001 and 2006, 84.6 hectares of bushland has been cleared in Sutherland Shire. The mapping does not include Holsworthy Military Area, Heathcote National Park or the Royal National Park. A comparison of vegetation community sizes can be seen on the table below including the amount lost per community in hectares (Ha) between 2001 and 2006.

Graph: Bushland Vegetation Community Size - including 5 year losses Bushland Vegetation Community Size - including 5 year losses

Source: Sutherland Shire Council Land Information Unit 2008

Graph: Endangered Ecological Community Size - including 5 year losses natural bushland on the applicants’ property. A total of $20,000 was made available. During 2007/08 an additional 35 new properties joined Greenweb increasing the number of participating properties within Sutherland Shire to 436. An initial 35 inspections and over 125 follow up inspections were carried out. 4756 native plants, sourced from Councils Nursery were utilised for the Greenweb program. Approximately 510 bush regeneration bags were filled with approximately 10.5 tonnes of weed material by participants and collected by the Greenweb officer. As part of the greenweb program, an additional greenwaste bin can be organised to assist in the removal of greenwaste. 27 properties took advantage of this offer in 2007/08. The Greenweb program is also available to schools within the Sutherland Shire. In 2007/08 sixteen schools participated in assisted activities including weeding, mulching, planting, propagation, environmental walks and environmental events. The schools involved included Alfords Point Public, Bundeena Public, Caringbah North Public, Grays Point Public, Gymea Public, Inaburra, Kareela Public, Kurnell Public, Lucas Heights Community, Marton Public, Montessoris (Gymea), Southern Cross Baptist, St. Patricks Sutherland, Tharawal Public, Woolooware Public and Yarrawarrah Public School. Council continues to undertake follow-up inspections particularly in the more degraded areas and will continue to target some of the critical links in the Greenweb network.

Additional Information:

Appendix 4 - Endangered Ecological Communities in the Sutherland Shire listed on the Threatened Species Conservation (TSC) Act 1995 or Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act 1999 (PDF - 98KB) Appendix 5 - Endangered Fauna Species recorded in the Sutherland Shire in the last 30 years (compiled from National Parks and Wildlife Service, Australian Museum and Sutherland Shire Council data). (PDF - 109KB) Appendix 6 - National, State and locally significant flora of Sutherland Shire. (PDF - 141KB)

Cleaner,What healthier is the waterways, indicator? beaches and wetlands with healthy marine life, cleaner storm water run off

What is the indicator?

Indicators:

Stormwater infrastructure Water Quality Beaches and Harbours; Stormwater; and Rivers and Creeks.

Stormwater infrastructure is measured by water quality, the presence, condition and maintenance of stormwater drainage, Stormwater Quality Improvement Devices (SQIDs) and the level of effectiveness of SQIDs across the Sutherland Shire catchments. Water Quality is measured using the results of water sample analysis from samples collected across Sutherland Shire. The results are assessed to determine if they are within (or comply with) selected water quality guidelines. Compliance is written as a percentage depending on how many samples tested comply with the selected water quality guidelines but can range from (0%) compliance (no samples tested comply) to (100%) compliance (all samples tested comply). Water quality and stormwater infrastructure indicators can be used to determine:

Which of our recreational waters are safe for swimming; Whether our stormwater is of an acceptable quality for discharge to our waterways; Whether our rivers and creeks are in a condition that maintains a reasonable level of ecosystem health; Which contaminants and their sources are a problem in the Sutherland Shire; If Council is adhering to their commitments in preventing or reducing the effect or incidence of pollutants entering the water ways; If Sutherland Shire SQIDs are effective in treating stormwater to an acceptable level; and If Sutherland Shire stormwater infrastructure is sufficient to maintain cleanliness of our waterways for the Sutherland Shire catchments.

What is happening?

Indicators:

Stormwater infrastructure Water Quality Beaches and Harbours; Stormwater; and Rivers and Creeks. Stormwater infrastructure State Council’s role is to provide stormwater improvements and services to the community. Services include pipes, drains, stormwater quality improvement devices (SQIDs) and riparian revegetation works to alleviate flooding and improve water quality in creeks and rivers. Approximately (36%) of the urban area in Sutherland Shire contains SQIDs to improve stormwater quality.

Map: Sutherland Shire’s Sub-catchments and Stormwater Quality Improvement Devices 2007/08

Page 142 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 143 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Pressure Sewage overflow and leaks During rainfall, sewage systems can be overloaded causing sewage to divert to the stormwater system which flows directly into our waterways. Bacteria is the main concern when this occurs and can make our beaches and recreational waters unsafe for swimming. Disruption of natural water flow The installation of dams, urbanisation, stormwater infrastructure and groundwater bores have disrupted the natural water flows typical of the natural environment and puts pressure on aquatic biodiversity which rely on water volume and water quality to survive. Stormwater runoff The urbanisation of the local government area has had a significant impact on water quality in the aquatic environments. Rainfall can no longer infiltrate the ground naturally due to the presence of hard surfaces such as roads and buildings. This disrupts the normal water cycle and can lead to flooding in urban areas and water pollution. Stormwater travels across the hard surfaces and mobilises contaminants and rubbish and transports this to our waterways via stormwater drains. Contaminants include metals, nutrients, sediments, oil and grease, oxygen demanding substances, chemicals, and bacteria. EPA licensed discharges Various companies are licensed by the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) to discharge specified quantities and qualities of waste water into the environment. Discharges can impact upon water quality by releasing contaminants into the environment. These licenses must be reviewed regularly and the EPA has the power to withdraw or alter the licenses due to non compliance with the license. See the Appendix 3 for EPA Licenses in the Sutherland Shire. Spills and illegal discharges Every year Council receives many complaints from the public regarding water pollution incidents, this year 142 complaints were received, this is an increase from 2006/07 but overall has reduced since 2004/05, see the Appendix for 9 and 10 graph of water complaints. These can take the form of accidental spillages, illegal discharges or overflows. Spills and discharges can have a range of effects on the aquatic environment Removal and/or degradation of riparian vegetation With development occurring along creeks and rivers the removal and degradation of vegetation occurs, this can result in erosion, weed invasion and more pollutants entering waterways.

Water quality State Beaches and Harbours State The Department of Environment and Climate Change NSW (DECC) (formerly the EPA) conducts the Beachwatch-Harbourwatch monitoring program to determine the level of faecal coliform and enterococci bacteria in our harbours and at beaches. Samples are collected every six days to assess the safety of waters for recreational activities such as swimming and other water sports. An overall compliance with guidelines for the year is established in the Tables below.

Table: Compliance of Beachwatch sites with guidelines

Water monitoring compliance levels (%)

Boat Greenhills Wanda Elouera North South Shelly Oak Harbour Cronulla Cronulla Beach Park Faecal Coliforms 2004/05 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 2005/06 95 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 2006/07 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 2007/08 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 Enterococci 2004/05 59 97 100 100 100 100 100 100 2005/06 89 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 2006/07 93 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 2007/08 65 100 100 100 100 100 100 100

*Bold indicates decrease in compliance, italics indicate an increase or (100%) compliance. Source: Beachwatch and Harbour Watch (2006/07)

Results from 2007/08 Beachwatch monitoring indicate a consistently high compliance for both faecal coliforms and enterococci with the exception of Boat Harbour which has low compliance for enterococci. Boat Harbour is an un-sewered community which consists of single dwelling onsite sewerage management systems. Council continues to liaise with the Department of Environment and Climate Change to improve the level of sewerage management at Boat Harbour to ensure that compliance improves. Trends over the last four years of Beachwatch results indicate a very high level of compliance for all beach sites with the exception of Boat Harbour for enterococci.

Table: Compliance of Harbourwatch sites with guidelines

Water monitoring compliance levels (%)

Silver Como Jibbon Horden’s Lilli Pilli Gymea Gunnamatta Beach Baths Beach Beach Baths Baths Baths Faecal Coliforms 2004/05 98 90 98 96 98 88 98 2005/06 100 96 100 100 100 100 100 2006/07 92 86 95 100 95 95 97 2007/08 88 88 100 91 88 75 81 Enterococci 2004/05 95 82 94 88 82 71 84 2005/06 98 96 100 98 96 96 98 2006/07 90 90 100 95 95 83 85 2007/08 100 84 100 91 100 66 94

*Bold indicates decrease in compliance, italics indicate an increase or (100%) compliance. Source: Beachwatch and Harbour Watch (2006/07)

Results from 2007/08 Harbourwatch indicate a general decrease in compliance of sites since 2006/07. Como Baths had increased compliance for faecal coliforms but decreased compliance for enterococci. Jibbon Beach had increased compliance for faecal coliforms and was consistently compliant for enterococci. Gymea Baths had a noticeable decrease in compliance for both faecal coliforms and enterococci, this is likely due to increased rainfall events that occurred during 2007/08 compared to 2006/07. Trends over the last four years show that of the Harbourwatch monitoring sites Gymea Bay Baths has had a decrease in compliance for both faecal coliforms and enterococci. Results for 2007/08 indicate the lowest compliance observed since monitoring started in 2000/01. This trend of decreasing compliance over time may be a result of sewerage overflows in Gymea Bay catchment. Page 144 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 145 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Recreational Monitoring Water monitoring compliance levels (%)

*Bold indicates decrease in compliance, italics indicate an increase or (100%) compliance. Source: Beachwatch and Harbour Watch (2006/07)

Table: Compliance of Harbourwatch sites with guidelines

Water monitoring compliance levels (%)

*Bold indicates decrease in compliance, italics indicate an increase or (100%) compliance. Source: Beachwatch and Harbour Watch (2006/07)

Results from 2007/08 Harbourwatch indicate a general decrease in compliance of sites since 2006/07. Como Baths had increased compliance for faecal coliforms but decreased compliance for enterococci. Jibbon Beach had increased compliance for faecal coliforms and was consistently compliant for enterococci. Gymea Baths had a noticeable decrease in compliance for both faecal coliforms and enterococci, this is likely due to increased rainfall events that occurred during 2007/08 compared to 2006/07. Trends over the last four years show that of the Harbourwatch monitoring sites Gymea Bay Baths has had a decrease in compliance for both faecal coliforms and enterococci. Results for 2007/08 indicate the lowest compliance observed since monitoring started in 2000/01. This trend of decreasing compliance over time may be a result of sewerage overflows in Gymea Bay catchment. Recreational Monitoring Recreational monitoring was undertaken by Sutherland Shire Council representatives from December 2007 to March 2008. Samples were collected weekly from Darook Park and Swallow Rock, popular swimming spots that aren’t currently monitored by Beachwatch.

Table: Recreational Monitoring Compliance 2004-2008

Water monitoring compliance levels (%)

Darook Park Swallow Rock Faecal Coliforms 2004/05 15 23 2005/06 43 46 2006/07 80 67 2007/08 87 80 Enterococci 2004/05 8 23 2005/06 83 82 2006/07 80 89 2007/08 93 80

*Bold indicates decrease in compliance, italics indicate an increase or (100%) compliance. Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008)

Results indicate a general increase in compliance of sites since 2006/07. All sites showed an increase in compliance for enterococci and faecal coliforms with the exception of Swallow Rock for faecal coliforms. Trends over the last four years show that over that time a significant increase in compliance with water quality guidelines at these sites has occurred. Results confirm the recommendation that swimming should not be undertaken at locations with minimal tidal flushing eg; harbours and rivers for 3 days following a storm/rainfall event. Results also indicate that swimming should not be undertaken at beach locations for 1 day following a storm/rainfall event. Stormwater, Rivers and Creeks Since 1994 water quality monitoring of the Sutherland Shire stormwater and receiving water has been conducted through the Strategic Water Monitoring Program (SWaMP). The SWaMP program aims to identify areas in Sutherland Shire which require actions for improving water quality (eg; the installation or upgrade of stormwater quality improvement devices). During 2007/08 as a part of SWaMP 17 sites were monitored for water quality and six stormwater quality improvement devices (SQIDs) were monitored to determine their effectiveness in treating stormwater. See: ‘What is the Indicator?’ for explanation on water quality compliance

Table: Stormwater Quality Compliance

Page 144 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 145 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Recreational monitoring was undertaken by Sutherland Shire Council representatives from December 2007 to March 2008. Samples were collected weekly from Darook Park and Swallow Rock, popular swimming spots that aren’t currently monitored by Beachwatch.

Table: Recreational Monitoring Compliance 2004-2008

Water monitoring compliance levels (%)

Darook Park Swallow Rock Faecal Coliforms 2004/05 15 23 2005/06 43 46 2006/07 80 67 2007/08 87 80 Enterococci 2004/05 8 23 2005/06 83 82 2006/07 80 89 2007/08 93 80

*Bold indicates decrease in compliance, italics indicate an increase or (100%) compliance. Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008)

Table: Stormwater Quality Compliance

Percentage Compliance With Australian Runoff Quality Guidelines 2006

Site ID Site 1 Site 2 Site 3 Site 4 Site 6 Site Location Production Rd Endeavour Rd Resolution Sharks Leagues Sir Joseph Taren Point Taren Point Drive Club Channel Banks Drive Taren Point Woolooware Kurnell Major Catchment Botany Bay Botany Bay Botany Bay Botany Bay Botany Bay Ammonia 50 90 70 70 70 Biological oxygen demand 50 40 70 70 30 Copper 70 100 100 90 70 Enterococci 30 50 60 20 40 Lead 100 100 100 100 100 Total nitrogen 40 50 40 10 20 Total phosphorous 20 20 30 20 0 Total suspended sediment 80 100 80 50 40 Zinc 40 20 70 100 40

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

Compliance is 50% or less which indicates consistently poor results for that contaminant Compliance could be lower due to laboratory limit of reporting not being low enough for the selected guidelines

Table: Stormwater Quality Compliance

Percentage Compliance With Australian Runoff Quality Guidelines 2006

Site ID Site 8 Site 12 Site 14 Site 32 Site 33 Site 35 Site Location North Cronulla Burraneer Bay Yowie Bay Scylla Bay Kareela Golf Silverwater Stormwater Park East Como Course Cresecent Drain Burraneer Camellia Kareela Outlet Bay Gardens Major Catchment Pacific Ocean Port Hacking Port Hacking Georges Georges River Georges Bay Bay River River Ammonia 100 100 70 100 80 90 BOD 70 70 70 100 40 90 Copper 20 90 100 80 90 60 Enterococci 10 20 20 60 60 30 Lead 100 100 100 100 100 100 Total nitrogen 10 50 30 20 30 90 Total phosphorous 0 40 0 30 60 20 Total suspended 100 100 90 100 90 80 sediment Zinc 30 90 80 100 70 80

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

Results from Stormwater Quality in the above tables indicate that no waterway had (100%) compliance with all water quality guidelines. The most polluted stormwater was located at Production Road Taren Point, followed by Sir Joseph Banks Drive, Kurnell, and the location with the best result was Scylla Bay, Como. The pollutant of most concern was 'total phosphorus' with no site achieving (100%) compliance. That of least concern was lead, with nearly all sites achieving (100%)Page 146 compliance. Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 147 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council In comparison, water quality throughout 2007/08 was generally better, mainly due to increased heavy rainfall Percentage Compliance With Australian Runoff Quality Guidelines 2006

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

Table: Stormwater Quality Compliance

Percentage Compliance With Australian Runoff Quality Guidelines 2006

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

Results from Stormwater Quality in the above tables indicate that no waterway had (100%) compliance with all water quality guidelines. The most polluted stormwater was located at Production Road Taren Point, followed by Sir Joseph Banks Drive, Kurnell, and the location with the best result was Scylla Bay, Como. The pollutant of most concern was 'total phosphorus' with no site achieving (100%) compliance. That of least concern was lead, with nearly all sites achieving (100%) compliance. In comparison, water quality throughout 2007/08 was generally better, mainly due to increased heavy rainfall which dilutes runoff and flushes contaminants regularly. Water quality at some sites, for example, Sir Joseph Banks Drive has deteriorated significantly due to development and construction in the vicinity.

Table: River and Creek Water Quality

Percentage Compliance With Anzecc 2000 Protection Of Aquatic Ecosystem 95% Species Protection Guidelines

Site ID Site 39 Site 18 Site 23 Site 20 Site 34 Site 37 Site Location Savilles Kangaroo Woronora Forbes Gwawley Bundeena Creek Creek River, Creek Creek Creek Heathcote Rd Major Port Hacking Port Hacking Woronora Wornora Georges Georges Catchment Bay Bay River River River River pH 70 80 80 70 100 80 Dissolved oxygen 90 50 60 60 40 20 Ammonia 100 100 100 100 100 100 Copper 90 90 90 80 90 100 Lead 70 100 90 100 70 100 Total nitrogen 10 100 90 30 0 30 Total phosphorous 70 100 80 60 70 40 Zinc 30 100 80 40 80 70

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

Results from River and Creek Water Quality in the above table indicate that no creek or river had (100%) compliance with all water quality guidelines. The most polluted creek was Bundeena Creek followed by Savilles Creek and the creek/river with the best result was Woronora River (on Heathcote Road). The pollutant of most concern was 'total nitrogen’ with no site achieving (100%) compliance. That of least concern was ammonia, with all sites achieving (100%) compliance. In comparison, water quality in creeks and rivers sampled throughout 2007/08 was similar to 2006/07. Dissolved oxygen has improved significantly on previous years due to higher rainfall and thus greater movement of water. This would benefit aquatic life.

Table: Stormwater Quality Improvement Devices (SQIDs) Water Quality

Page 146 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 147 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council which dilutes runoff and flushes contaminants regularly. Water quality at some sites, for example, Sir Joseph Banks Drive has deteriorated significantly due to development and construction in the vicinity.

Table: River and Creek Water Quality

Percentage Compliance With Anzecc 2000 Protection Of Aquatic Ecosystem 95% Species Protection Guidelines

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

Table: Stormwater Quality Improvement Devices (SQIDs) Water Quality

Percentage Compliance With Australian Runoff Quality Guidelines 2006

Site ID Site 5A Site 5B Better Site 9A Site 9B Better Site 11A Site 11B Better Inflow Outflow Inflow Outflow Inflow Outflow Site Location Captain Captain Worse Cronulla Cronulla Worse Gunnamatta Gunnamatta Worse Cook Cook Beach Beach Bay GPT Bay GPT Drive Drive GPT GPT Wetland Wetland Major Botany Botany Same Pacific Pacific Same Port Port Same Catchment Bay Bay Ocean Ocean Hacking Hacking Bay Bay Ammonia 50 75 50 75 25 75 BOD 25 50 50 100 75 100 Cu 100 100 75 75 75 75 Enterococci 75 100 0 25 50 50 Lead 100 100 100 100 100 100 Total nitrogen 50 50 0 25 0 0 Total 50 75 0 25 50 25 phosphorous TSS 100 75 100 100 100 75 Zinc 100 100 100 100 100 100

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

Outflow has better water quality compared with the inflow Outflow has worse water quality compared with inflow Outflow has same water quality compared with inflow

Table: Stormwater Quality Improvement Devices (SQIDs) Water Quality

Percentage Compliance With Australian Runoff Quality Guidelines 2006

Site ID Site 22A Site 22B Better Site 25A Site 25B Better Site 38A Site 38B Better Inflow Outflow Inflow Outflow Inflow Outflow Site Location Mianga Ave Mianga Ave Worse Still Creek Still Creek Worse Tudar Rd Tudar Rd Worse Wetland Wetland Detention Detention Wetland Wetland Basin Basin Major Catchment Port Hacking Port Hacking Same Woronora Woronora Same Woronora Woronora Same River River River River River River Ammonia 50 100 100 100 100 100 BOD 75 50 100 50 50 75 Cu 100 75 100 100 100 100 Enterococci 50 75 75 75 75 100 Lead 100 75 100 100 100 100 Total nitrogen 0 25 50 25 25 0 Total phosphorous 75 75 75 25 50 50 TSS 100 75 100 75 75 75 Zinc 25 25 75 100 50 100

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

Outflow has better water quality compared with the inflow Outflow has worse water quality compared with inflow Outflow has same water quality compared with inflow Page 148 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 149 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Results from SQIDs in the above table indicate that no SQID completely removed all contaminants from the stormwater from the inlet to the outlet. The best performance was Captain Cook Drive Wetland and Cronulla Percentage Compliance With Australian Runoff Quality Guidelines 2006 Beach Gross Pollutant Trap and the worst performance was Still Creek Detention Basin. The contaminant least likely to decrease in concentration from the inlet to the outlet was nitrogen. The contaminants most Site ID Site 5A Site 5B Better Site 9A Site 9B Better Site 11A Site 11B Better likely to decrease or have (100%) compliance from the inlet to the outlet were ammonia and enterococci. Inflow Outflow Inflow Outflow Inflow Outflow In comparison, the SQIDs generally had a poorer performance than 2006/07 especially Mianga Avenue Site Location Captain Captain Worse Cronulla Cronulla Worse Gunnamatta Gunnamatta Worse Cook Cook Beach Beach Bay GPT Bay GPT Wetland. Mianga Avenue Wetland did have at least one observed pollution event from an unknown source Drive Drive GPT GPT which may have been the cause of the poor performance. Increased rainfall is the likely reason for the poor Wetland Wetland performance, more water flowing through the SQIDs can result in less resident time in the SQID which means Major Botany Botany Same Pacific Pacific Same Port Port Same less treatment of the water. Catchment Bay Bay Ocean Ocean Hacking Hacking Bay Bay Ammonia 50 75 50 75 25 75 BOD 25 50 50 100 75 100 Water Quality Cu 100 100 75 75 75 75 Pressure Enterococci 75 100 0 25 50 50 Sewage overflow and leaks Lead 100 100 100 100 100 100 During rainfall, sewage systems can be overloaded causing sewage to divert to the stormwater system which Total nitrogen 50 50 0 25 0 0 flows directly into our waterways. Bacteria are the main concern when this occurs and can make our beaches and recreational waters unsafe for swimming. Total 50 75 0 25 50 25 phosphorous Disruption of natural water flow TSS 100 75 100 100 100 75 The installation of damns, urbanisation, stormwater infrastructure and groundwater bores has disrupted the Zinc 100 100 100 100 100 100 natural water flows present in our environment and put pressure on aquatic biodiversity which rely on water volume and water quality to survive.

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008 Stormwater runoff The urbanisation of Sutherland Shire has had a significant impact on water quality in our aquatic environments. Rainfall can no longer infiltrate the ground naturally due to the presence of hard surfaces such Outflow has better water quality compared with the inflow as roads and buildings. This disrupts the normal water cycle and can lead to flooding in urban areas and Outflow has worse water quality compared with inflow water pollution. Stormwater travels across the hard surfaces and mobilises contaminants and rubbish and Outflow has same water quality compared with inflow transports this to our waterways via stormwater drains. Contaminants include metals, nutrients, sediments, oil and grease, oxygen demanding substances, chemicals and bacteria. EPA licensed discharges Various companies are licensed by the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) to discharge specified Table: Stormwater Quality Improvement Devices (SQIDs) Water Quality quantities and qualities of waste water into the environment. Discharges can impact upon water quality by releasing contaminants into the environment. These licenses must be reviewed regularly and the EPA has the Percentage Compliance With Australian Runoff Quality Guidelines 2006 power to withdraw or alter the licenses due to non compliance with the license. See Appendix 3 for EPA Licenses in Sutherland Shire. Site ID Site 22A Site 22B Better Site 25A Site 25B Better Site 38A Site 38B Better Spills and illegal discharges Inflow Outflow Inflow Outflow Inflow Outflow Every year Council receives many complaints from the public regarding water pollution incidents, this year Site Location Mianga Ave Mianga Ave Worse Still Creek Still Creek Worse Tudar Rd Tudar Rd Worse 142 complaints were received, this is an increase from 2006/07 but overall has reduced since 2004/05, see Wetland Wetland Detention Detention Wetland Wetland Basin Basin Appendix 10 for graph of complaints. These can take the form of accidental spillages, illegal discharges or Major Catchment Port Hacking Port Hacking Same Woronora Woronora Same Woronora Woronora Same overflows. Spills and discharges can have a range of effects on the aquatic environment from degeneration River River River River River River of aquatic life to algal growth or reduced aesthetics. Ammonia 50 100 100 100 100 100 Removal and/or degradation of riparian vegetation BOD 75 50 100 50 50 75 With development occurring along creeks and rivers the removal and degradation of vegetation occurs, this Cu 100 75 100 100 100 100 can result in erosion, weed invasion and more pollutants entering waterways. Enterococci 50 75 75 75 75 100 Lead 100 75 100 100 100 100 Total nitrogen 0 25 50 25 25 0 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Total phosphorous 75 75 75 25 50 50 TSS 100 75 100 75 75 75 Zinc 25 25 75 100 50 100

Source: Sutherland Shire Council 2008

What is the response?

Indicators:

Stormwater infrastructure Water Quality Beaches and Harbours; Stormwater; and Rivers and Creeks.

The following are actions to improve or maintain water quality and stormwater infrastructure which would in turn lead to cleaner, healthier waterways, beaches and wetlands with healthy marine life and cleaner stormwater run-off: Monitoring water quality Through Beachwatch, recreational monitoring and SWMP and implementing actions to improve water quality such as improved stormwater infrastructure and installation of stormwater quality improvement devices (SQIDs). Monitoring informs the decision making process for allocating Stormwater Levy funds. Stormwater Levy Council has a Stormwater Levy which funds stormwater projects such as the installation of pipes, drains, stormwater quality improvement devices (SQIDs) and riparian revegetation works to alleviate flooding and improve water quality in creeks and rivers. Maintenance of stormwater infrastructure is also carried out under the Stormwater Levy. Through the cleaning of SQIDs Council have prevented 841 cubic metres of organic matter, 365 cubic metres of litter and 696 tonnes of sediment from entering the Shire’s waterways. Approximately (36%) of the urban area in Sutherland Shire contains SQIDs to improve stormwater quality, this is an increase of (1%) since 2006/07. See Appendix 11 for graph of SQIDs cleanout data. Riverkeeper Program Partnership with Maritime Authority and Councils along the Georges and Port Hacking Rivers see the waterway regulated, cleaned up, revegetated and rehabilitated by Riverkeeper programs. The Georges Riverkeeper program resulted in over 30.5 tonnes of rubbish removed from in and around the river, 4302 m2 weeded and over 11,163 plants used in revegetation along the river in the Sutherland Shire area. See Appendix 13 for statistics of the Georges Riverkeeper Project. Bush regeneration and riparian rehabilitation Bush regeneration and riparian rehabilitation is conducted by Council’s Bush Regeneration Unit and helps in riparian rehabilitation by removing weeds and replanting native vegetation to improve the aesthetics, biodiversity and water quality along creeks and rivers. Environmental flows Environmental flows can be described as water released from dams into rivers to prevent stagnation, flush pollutants and improve habitat for aquatic species. From Woronora Damn during 2007/08, Sydney Catchment Authority released (17%) or 5062 mega litres of water as environmental flows into Woronora River. See Appendix 12 for triggers and volumes of environmental flows for Woronora River. Responding to pollution incidents Council's Environmental Health Unit (EHU) responds to water pollution incidents and Council’s Regulation Enforcement Unit (REU) issue infringement notices for pollution incidents that breach the POEO act and/or EPA licensing agreements. EHU has responded to 142 water pollution complaints and REU have issued one fine for a Corporation polluting the water with over 200 infringements recorded for littering, illegal dumping and other pollution. See Appendix 14. Community education Community education is conducted by Council through programs such as Streamwatch, Green Street, Enviro-Works and the Community Garden. All of these programs aim to educate the community on how to care for their local environment.

Page 150 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 151 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) This is a set of principles relating to sustainable urban water cycle management. WSUD aims to reduce the negative impact of urban development on the total water cycle through more sustainable design and improved drainage management. Under Sutherland Council's Development Control Plan 2006 it requires developers (including residential builders) to implement the principles of WSUD where conditions allow, as well as making water tanks mandatory on all new developments, including industrial and commercial developments Writing and implementing plans of management Through the completion of the Woronora Estuary Management Plan and the review of the Port Hacking Environmental Integrated Management Plan 2008 during 2007/08 actions have been created to improve the management of the Shires waterways. Through the creation of Development Control Plans, Council actively supports and enforces practices that protect water quality. Joining the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI) Water Campaign Council joined the ICLEI Water Campaign and committed to reducing water consumption and reducing the impact or incidence of pollutants entering the waterways. Council have conducted training of TAFE students, provided a free mulching program, developed guidelines on erosion and sediment control, and conducted audits on vehicle related businesses all of which help to prevent water pollution occurring.

What is the indicator? Reduced Greenhouse Emissions and Better Air Quality

What is the indicator? Indicators:

Council Greenhouse Gas Emissions Regional Air Pollution Index Average Weekday Vehicle Kilometres Travelled

Council Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions. An inventory of key operational areas within Council is undertaken annually to determine the level of greenhouse gas emissions produced. The emissions are calculated using the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI) emissions model. The inventory forms part of Council’s commitment to reducing GHG under the Cities for Climate Protection (CCP) program. Operational sectors included in the model are Council’s buildings, vehicle fleet, streetlights, employee commute and waste. Regional Air Quality Index (RAQI). The RAQI measures five key air pollutants Ozone, Nitrogen Dioxide, Carbon Monoxide, Sulfur Dioxide, Particles and visibility. Sutherland Shire forms part of the RAQI Sydney East Region and air pollution is measured daily by the Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC) from 5 fixed monitoring sites at Chullora, Rozelle, Linfield, Randwick and Earlwood. In 2008 DECC replaced the Regional Pollution Index (RPI) with the regional Air Quality Index (RAQI). Average Weekday Vehicle Kilometres Travelled (VKT). Motor vehicles are a major source of air pollution. The more kilometres driven the more air pollution that is emitted. For vehicles in Sutherland Shire and Greater Sydney Metropolitan area VKT data is obtained annually from the Household Travel Survey, which is undertaken by the NSW Ministry of Transport’s Travel Data Centre.

What is happening?

Indicators:

Council Greenhouse Gas Emissions Regional Air Pollution Index Average Weekday Vehicle Kilometres Travelled Council Greenhouse Gas Emissions State As part of Council’s commitment to the ICLEI Cities for Climate Protection Program Council conducts an inventory of its operations to determine the amount of greenhouse gas emitted annually from key areas of its operations. Using the ICLEI emissions model it was determined that during 2007/08, greenhouse gas emissions increased by 2,800 tonnes on the previous year. Increases in emissions occurred in the building, fleet and street light sectors. A summary of the emissions report is provided in the table below.

Table: Tonnes of CO2 per Sector

Tonnes of CO2 per Sector

Inventory Year Buildings Vehicle Employee Streetlights Waste Total Sector Fleet Commute Sector Sector Tonnes CO2 Sector Sector 2005/06 11,644 4,331 1,703 8,079 234 25,991 2006/07 10,127 4,401 1,703 8,191 234 24,656 2007/08 11,280 4,661 1,703 9,607 234 27,485

(GHG Emissions calculated using ICLEI CCP emissions model. Previous year(s) tonnages may be subject to variation due to limitations of input data)

Pressure The increasing demand, level and provision of services and facilities to the community continues to place significant pressure on Council’s ability to reduce total GHG emissions despite energy and GHG emission reduction activities.

Regional Air Quality Index (RAQI) State The Regional Air Quality Index (RAQI) for Sydney East during 2007/08 showed that:

Very Good air quality occurred on 7% of days; Good air quality on 74% of days; Fair air quality on 14% of days; Poor air quality < 1% of days; Very Poor air quality 0%; and Hazardous air quality 1% of days.

Months where air quality was generally poorest occurred between September and November 2007 and April 2008.

Page 152 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 153 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Graph: Daily Air Quality Index (AQI) Sydney East 2007/08 Graph: Daily Air Quality Index (AQI) Sydney East 2007/08

Regional Air Quality Sydney East 2007/08 (DECC 2008) Regional Air Quality Sydney East 2007/08 (DECC 2008)

PressurePressure The major pressure on the RAQI (i.e. when air quality levels are poor to very poor) generally coincides with The major pressure on the RAQI (i.e. when air quality levels are poor to very poor) generally coincides with periods of bush fire activity in the summer and the occurrence of temperature inversions over the Sydney air periods of bush fire activity in the summer and the occurrence of temperature inversions over the Sydney air shed during the winter /autumn. A temperature inversion can have a significant impact on air quality as the shed during the winter /autumn. A temperature inversion can have a significant impact on air quality as the “lid” of warmer air above the colder surface air that is formed suppresses vertical mixing of air. This traps air “lid” of warmer air above the colder surface air that is formed suppresses vertical mixing of air. This traps air pollutants generated from industrial, transport sources and woodfire heaters. pollutants generated from industrial, transport sources and woodfire heaters. At a local scale air pollution is reported to Council and investigated under the provisions of the Protection of At a local scale air pollution is reported to Council and investigated under the provisions of the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 from which appropriate remedial or legal action is undertaken. the Environment Operations Act 1997 from which appropriate remedial or legal action is undertaken. During 2007/08 Council received 79 complaints regarding air pollution, an increase of 4 complaints from During 2007/08 Council received 79 complaints regarding air pollution, an increase of 4 complaints from 2006/07. The highest proportion, 43% (34) of complaints centre on ‘other sources’ which comprise odours, 2006/07. The highest proportion, 43% (34) of complaints centre on ‘other sources’ which comprise odours, smoke or dust. The major source of these pollutants are from residential properties and include spray smoke or dust. The major source of these pollutants are from residential properties and include spray painting, cutting sandstone, emissions from motor vehicles or trucks and odours from Sydney Water painting, cutting sandstone, emissions from motor vehicles or trucks and odours from Sydney Water pumping stations. 28% (22) of complaints centred on industrial sources and 29% (23) wood fuel heaters. pumping stations. 28% (22) of complaints centred on industrial sources and 29% (23) wood fuel heaters. Chart: Air Pollution Complaints Sutherland Shire 1996-97 to 2006/07. Chart: Air Pollution Complaints Sutherland Shire 1996-97 to 2006/07.

Average Weekday Vehicle Kilometres Travelled (VKT). State Motor vehicles (mobile sources) are a major contributor to air pollution in the Sydney air shed. This was confirmed in an inventory of air emissions in Sydney undertaken by the DECC in 2002.

Chart: Comparison 1992 and 2002 Greater Metropolitan Region Emissions by Source (DECC 2008).

Comparison 1992 and 2002 Greater Metropolitan Region Emissions by Source (DECC 2008)

Since the early 1990s advances in engine technology and emission controls has helped to reduce vehicle emissions. The benefits gained by technology have however, been compromised by both the increasing number of motor vehicles on our roads and total kilometres travelled (VKT). On an average weekday in the Sutherland Shire during 2006, it is estimated that 5.1 million kilometres were travelled by motor car (as driver). This is an increase of approximately 169,000 kilometres from 2005 and 558,000 kilometres from 2004. From 2004 to 2006 the number of kilometres travelled by car as a passenger Average Weekday Vehicle Kilometres Travelled (VKT). State Motor vehicles (mobile sources) are a major contributor to air pollution in the Sydney air shed. This was confirmed in an inventory of air emissions in Sydney undertaken by the DECC in 2002.

Chart: Comparison 1992 and 2002 Greater Metropolitan Region Emissions by Source (DECC 2008).

Comparison 1992 and 2002 Greater Metropolitan Region Emissions by Source (DECC 2008)

Chart: Motor Vehicle kms Travelled (As Driver and Passenger) 1991 – 2006.

Pressure Between 2000 and 2004 motor vehicle kilometres travelled declined but then increased between 2004 and 2006. Increases in vehicle kilometres travelled (as driver and passenger) can be caused by a variety of factors that include the lower fuel and vehicle running costs, limited alternative transport options and employment opportunities that are situated or relocated further afield.

Chart: Motor Vehicle kms Travelled (As Driver and Passenger) 1991 – 2006.

What is the response?

Indicators:

Council Greenhouse Gas Emissions Regional Air Pollution Index Average Weekday Vehicle Kilometres Travelled

Sutherland Shire Council Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Plan (Cities for Climate Protection Project) Sutherland Shire Council participates in the Cities for Climate Protection (CCP) Campaign which is an international program initiated by International Council for Local Environment Initiatives (ICLEI) to reduce GHG emissions at local level. In Australia the CCP Campaign is jointly run by Australian Greenhouse Office (AGO) and International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI). Sutherland Shire Council joined the Cities for Climate Protection TM Program in 1999 and is committed to implementing GHG abatement strategies to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Council to date have undertaken various actions to reduce energy consumption and GHG emissions including:

Lighting retrofits e.g Council’s Administration Building and the Sutherland Entertainment centre; Reduction in the number of 6 cylinder vehicles and increase in 4 cylinder vehicles in the light vehicle fleet; Installation of a cogeneration plant at Sutherland Leisure Centre; Transport initiatives for Council staff and the community; Improved building design; and Green purchasing.

Through these and many other actions, Council has been able to contain GHG emission growth to 44%. Without any action, it is estimated that GHG emissions would have grown by 51%. Sutherland Shire Council – Increasing Transport Choice for residents Increasing transport choice is vital for a sustainable future. Providing greater opportunities to travel by other modes such as public transport, cycling and walking and making trips less dependant on the private motor car ensures not only reductions in car emissions but also increased access for the wider community to services and facilities, employment, entertainment and recreation. Bike Lockers at Railway Stations Sutherland Shire Council and the NSW Ministry of Transport were successful in obtaining Federal Government funding for the provision of secure bicycle lockers at railway stations in the Sutherland shire. The funding is provided by the Commonwealth Department of Environment and Heritage as part of the Cycle Connect Program and complements the NSW Ministry of Transport’s Secure Bike Locker Program established in 1996 under the Parking Space Levy capital works program. The two year Cycle Connect program provides for an additional 692 lockers to be installed in the Greater Sydney Region. In the Sutherland shire to date, 30 secure bike lockers have been installed under the Cycle Connect Program at Como, Engadine Heathcote, Jannali, Loftus and Miranda stations. An additional 34 lockers are proposed at Kirrawee, Gymea, Caringbah and Cronulla at the completion of the Cronulla – Sutherland rail duplication. Hire and Maintenance of Lockers The Ministry of Transport has an Agreement with Bicycle NSW (BNSW) to manage and maintain secure bicycle lockers. BNSW responsibilities include the hiring, collecting rent, marketing and the routine maintenance of the bicycle lockers. Major maintenance is the responsibility of the Ministry of Transport. This includes replacing damaged and deteriorated lockers. The lockers are let per quarter with a once-only key deposit and hire may be arranged by telephoning BNSW.

Page 156 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 157 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Bike Lockers at Council To encourage the use of bicycles as a mode of travel to work, Sutherland Shire Council has 6 secure bicycle lockers at the rear of its administration building and a bicycle compound. The bicycle lockers and secure bicycle compound now provides secure parking for 12 bicycles of which 9 to 10 spaces are regularly used.

Additional Information:

Appendix 8 - Air Quality Index (PDF - 68KB)

ConservationWhat is ofthe our naturalindicator? resources

What is the indicator? Indicators:

Energy consumption; and Water consumption Energy Consumption Council and the community’s energy consumption is reported on a yearly basis. Electricity usage is reported in kilo watt hours, fuel usage is reported in litres and gas usage is reported in giga joules. Total energy consumption, fuel usage and electricity consumption are converted to giga joules. Every year Council’s total energy usage and corresponding cost is compared to the previous year. Council has made a commitment to lower its level of energy use and greenhouse gas emissions across all areas of its business with a focus on the top ten sites. The community’s energy consumption is reported by Energy Australia. Water Consumption Council and the community’s water consumption are reported on a yearly basis. Water usage is reported in kilo litres (1000 litres). Every year Council and the community’s total water usage are compared to the previous year. Council has made a commitment to reduce its water consumption by 20% from 2000-2001 levels by 2010-2011. Council has also made a commitment on behalf of the community to reduce domestic water consumption from 92.83 to 80 kL per person per year by 2010-2011 and reduce consumption in the industrial and commercial sectors by 10% from 2000-2001 levels by 2010-2011.

What is happening?

Indicators:

Energy consumption; and Water consumption Energy Consumption State The table below is created from electricity and gas data provided by Planet Footprint, which comes directly from the energy providers Energy Australia, Origin, AGL and Integral Energy.

Table: Council’s Energy Consumption

Total Energy in Gigajoules (GJ)MS

Top 10 sites 2002-2003 2005-2006 2006-2007 2007-2008 Change % Since 2002-2003 Sutherland Leisure Centre 4016 34997 18700 35848 792.00% Caringbah Leisure Centre 7900 10924 10136 9957 26.00% Administration Centre 3907 4723 4486 4956 27.00% Sutherland Library 1549 2028 2176 2223 44.00% Hazelhurst Gallery 2247 3060 2477 2542 13.00% Engadine Leisure Centre 8675 9223 8511 2089 -76.00% Bath Road Depot 839 419 433 1984 37.00% Sutherland Entertainment Centre 1431 1396 1569 1491 4.00% Lucas Heights Sports Fields (1) ** ** 778 770 - 1% Bushfire Station Heathcote 615 549 528 545 -11.00%

Buildings * 39772 80564 61866 71863 81.00% Fleet 57789 64021 64932 68498 19.00% Streetlights 24695 27674 28057 32907 33.00% Total for Council usage 122256 172259 154855 173268 42.00%

*Approximate data based on Planet Footprint available data. ** This site was constructed after 2002-2003 so no energy was consumed.

Community’s Energy Consumption The table below is created from electricity data provided by Energy Australia.

Table: Energy Australia Community Electricity Use Report

Indicators:

Table: Council’s Energy Consumption

Total Energy in Gigajoules (GJ)MS

Buildings * 39772 80564 61866 71863 81.00% Fleet 57789 64021 64932 68498 19.00% Streetlights 24695 27674 28057 32907 33.00% Total for Council usage 122256 172259 154855 173268 42.00%

*Approximate data based on Planet Footprint available data. ** This site was constructed after 2002-2003 so no energy was consumed.

Community’s Energy Consumption The table below is created from electricity data provided by Energy Australia.

Table: Energy Australia Community Electricity Use Report

Electricity Use in megawatt hours (MWh)

2006-2007 2007-2008 Change % Since 2006-2007 Residential Electricity Use Domestic Use 579335 571435 -1.40% Controlled Load (off peak) 413404 142181 -0.90% Residential Total 722739 713616 -1.30% Business Electricity Use Small Business 245648 246430 0.30% Large Business 462816 469990 1.60% Business Total 708464 716420 1.10% Total Electricity Use 1431203 1430036 -0.10%

Pressure Society’s dependence on natural resources for everyday activities: all things we do in life depend upon electricity, gas and fuel. Council is under pressure to provide increased services and facilities to the community and this directly or indirectly results in the increased use of electricity, gas and fuel. Council has increased its energy consumption over the last five years by around 42%. This has been caused by upgrade and construction of new facilities needed by the community e.g. Lucas Heights playing fields, increased use of already existing facilities and increased services to the community requiring vehicular petrol consumption. Other factors such as climate have an effect, the milder the year the less electricity and gas is used to heat or cool facilities. The community energy consumption has reduced very slightly since the last financial year, this is unusual and may have been due to a milder climate or a change in awareness of the need for the conservation of our natural resources within the community. Effects on the natural environment: using resources such as electricity, gas, and fuel has direct and indirect effects on biodiversity. Emissions from combustion of fuel, clearing of habitat for infrastructure (roads, houses, industry) and discharges into our environment can have a permanent effect on our ecology. Price of petrol: the increasing price of fuel puts pressure on Council and the community to reduce consumption and curb unnecessary usage. Council has increased its fuel consumption by around 19% over the last five years. This is as a result of providing increased services to the community where more vehicles are used and more kilometres travelled. Climate change: awareness has resulted in consideration of the conservation of our natural resources. Burning fossil fuels, releases gases into the air that increase the ability of the atmosphere to retain heat. Concurrently, changes in our climate have had an effect on normal rainfall patterns.

Water Consumption State The table below is created from Sydney Water data.

Table: Council’s Water Consumption

Top 10 sites 2004-2005 2005-2006 2006-2007 2007-2008 Change % Since 2004-2005 Sutherland Leisure Centre 51410 49602 46384 45778 -11.00% The Ridge Playing Fields 54298 54051 31584 13456 -75.00% Bottom 9 Holes Kareela Golf Course + AR Hurst Oval 14914 16861 14516 11710 -22.00% Caringbah Leisure Centre 22082 15862 9577 10737 -51.00% Top 9 Holes Kareela Golf Course + Clubhouse 15608 14880 10662 8952 -43.00% Engadine Leisure Centre 23593 25548 9445 8824 -63.00% Harry Denning Soccer Oval – Kareela 1025 6158 4304 8662 745.00% Southern Districts Rugby Club 1603 4002 12571 6130 282.00% Camellia Gardens 6274 8511 7234 5301 -16.00% Hazelhurst Gallery 2919 4057 3800 5208 78.00% Sutherland Council Administration Building 5324 5114 5676 5042 -5.00% Total for all Council operations 391297 413683 351727 282918 -28.00%

The table below is created from water data provided directly by Sydney Water.

Table: Community Water Consumption

Water Consumption kL

2004-2005 2005-2006 2006-2007 2007-2008 Change % Since 2004-2005 Industry 2836799 2977260 3091607 3187625 12.00% Commercial 1077672 1079739 1249976 1518852 41.00% Residential flats 3827463 3917387 3863549 3769453 -2.00% Residential houses 16129819 16408467 15681499 14760718 -8.00% Other 1074772 938740 993235 740857 -31.00% Total 24946525 25321593 24879866 23977505 -4.00% Water Consumption per household (kL) Residential flats 138 138 134 128 -7.00% Residential houses 234 238 225 209 -11.00% Sydney average water consumption per household (kL) Residential flats 156 156 154 149 -5.00% Residential houses 232 232 222 209 -10.00%

Pressure Society’s dependence on natural resources for everyday activities: all things we do in life depend upon water. Washing, cleaning, drinking, swimming, manufacturing, construction, working, all of these require water. An average Sutherland Shire residential household consumed 209 000 litres in 2008. Council is under pressure to provide increased services and facilities to the community and this can result in the increased use of water for example Council’s Engadine Leisure Centre which has recently been upgraded will require more water for the increased patronage and use of the facility. Most of the increases reported above in Table 3 above are due to leaks at the site which will be rectified. Council’s playing fields are under pressure to be used more and more by sporting clubs, for the amount of usage they get more water is required to keep the playing surface in reasonable condition. Effects on the natural environment: using resources such as water has direct and indirect effects on biodiversity. Capture of water for drinking in dams reduces flow in rivers and creeks which has a negative effect on the health of aquatic ecosystems downstream. Pollution of those creeks and rivers further adds to the degradation of the aquatic ecosystems. Page 162 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 163 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Drought: has caused restrictions on water usage which forces Council, industry and the community to Water in kilolitres (kL) reduce water consumption. Council finds the pressure is on to keep a level of service and therefore must reduce their water consumption and maintain, as best they can, their facilities for example playing fields and Top 10 sites 2004-2005 2005-2006 2006-2007 2007-2008 Change % golf courses. Since 2004-2005 Sutherland Leisure Centre 51410 49602 46384 45778 -11.00% Climate change: awareness has resulted in consideration of the conservation of our natural resources. Climate change has caused a change in rainfall patterns and prolonged drought which has resulted in having The Ridge Playing Fields 54298 54051 31584 13456 -75.00% to be more conscious of water consumption. Bottom 9 Holes Kareela Golf Course + AR Hurst Oval 14914 16861 14516 11710 -22.00% Environmental flows: can be described as water released from dams into rivers to prevent stagnation, flush Caringbah Leisure Centre 22082 15862 9577 10737 -51.00% pollutants and improve habitat for aquatic species but are sourced from drinking water. From Woronora Top 9 Holes Kareela Golf Course + Clubhouse 15608 14880 10662 8952 -43.00% Damn during 2007-2008, Sydney Catchment Authority released 17% or 5062 ML of water as environmental Engadine Leisure Centre 23593 25548 9445 8824 -63.00% flows into Woronora River. See Appendix XX for triggers and volumes of environmental flows for Woronora Harry Denning Soccer Oval – Kareela 1025 6158 4304 8662 745.00% River. Southern Districts Rugby Club 1603 4002 12571 6130 282.00% Camellia Gardens 6274 8511 7234 5301 -16.00% Hazelhurst Gallery 2919 4057 3800 5208 78.00% Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Sutherland Council Administration Building 5324 5114 5676 5042 -5.00% Total for all Council operations 391297 413683 351727 282918 -28.00%

The table below is created from water data provided directly by Sydney Water.

Table: Community Water Consumption

Water Consumption kL

What is the response?

Indicators:

Energy consumption; and Water consumption

The following are actions to conserve our natural resources: Energy Consumption Community education: programs such as Green Street and Enviro-Works help the community reduce their ecological footprint by encouraging behavioural change through a series of workshops on sustainability topics including reducing energy consumption in the home and alternative transport options. Joining the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI) Cities for Climate Protection Program (CCP): Council joined CCP and committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions which are directly linked to energy consumption. Despite implementing a number of energy saving actions Council have increased their energy consumption by 42% since 2002-03. Energy Saving Action Plan (ESAP): is a state government requirement for Council’s to establish actions they can conduct to reduce their energy consumption at their top ten energy using sites. Full implementation of the ESAP would result in an annual saving of approximately 4,167GJ (2.4% of Council’s consumption), this would require an initial capital investment of approximately $182,750. This would offset the likely increase in energy consumption that occurs each year with increased patronage and usage of facilities. Fuel Reduction: Council’s Fleet Management Unit is working hard to reduce fuel consumption. Vehicles are chosen based on their fuel efficiency and the number of cars in Council’s fleet are constantly assessed to determine the need. The rate of energy consumption in buildings has increased by 81% since 2002-03 whilst fleet has only increased by 19% indicating that actions fleet have taken have been more successful in reducing energy consumption than those undertaken in the buildings during the same time. Water Consumption Community education: programs such as Green Street and Enviro-Works help the community reduce their ecological footprint by encouraging behavioural change through a series of workshops on sustainability topics including reducing water consumption in the home Joining the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI) Water Campaign: Council joined the water campaign and committed to reducing water consumption and reducing the impact or incidence of pollutants entering the waterways. Council have reduced water consumption by 28% since 2004-2005 indicating Council is likely to achieve its water saving target. Water Saving Action Plan (WSAP): is a state government requirement for Council’s to establish actions they can conduct to reduce their water consumption at their top ten water using sites. Full implementation of the WSAP would result in an annual saving of 83 220kL (29% of Council’s water consumption), this would require an initial capital investment of approximately $4 281 800. Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD): is the introduction of alternative ways to manage water in urban areas. Rain and storm water is captured in temporary storage, treated and reused in various ways to minimise or remove the need for traditional pipes for water which would traditionally be discharged into creeks unused and untreated via the stormwater system. The implementation of water sensitive urban design in parks such as Centenary Park at Miranda provide developers the opportunity to implement WSUD where conditions allow and making water tanks mandatory on all new developments all help to reduce water consumption.

What is the indicator? What is the indicator? Indicators:

Sustainability and value for Money Ethical operations Service satisfaction and involvement Evidence based decision making

Suggested indicators

Action taken on formal complaints to the Health Care Complaints Commission by LGA

Sustainability and value for money State Government plans and decision making impacts Sutherland Shire through the State Plan and the Metro Strategy which incorporates strategies for the Sutherland Shire and adjoining regions. Reporting on outcomes of the State Plan provides evidence of progress toward the stated goals. Various government department reports against this plan. The State Plan and metro Strategy will be used as an indicator for the first time. Sutherland Shire Council’s measures are found in the Quadruple Bottom Line Management Framework and Annual Planning and Reporting of income and expenditure, providing a mechanism for balanced decision making. The development and publication of this report annually is a requirement under the NSW Local Government Act. Annual reports clearly articulate expenditure and the state of Council’s budget each year. Council must provide an annual audited statement of income and expenditure and accounts in line with all requirements of the NSW Local Government Act.

Ethical operations The NSW Annual Ombudsman’s Reports 2004/05, 2005/06 and 2006/07 have been used as a source for this indicator showing the number of matters and the form of investigation for all matters from Sutherland Shire. This is a new indicator. Sutherland Shire Councils Annual Ombudsman’s Reports 2004 – 2007/8 are further used to identify the number and type of investigations conducted for all matters raised with Councils Office. This is a new indicator. Decisions of the Heath Care Complaints Commission in the report -Assessment decisions made in complaints about health service providers in South Eastern Sydney/Illawarra region 2004/05 - 2007/08 illustrate the number and resolution of matters brought to the attention of the Commission for the Sutherland Shire. This report includes public and private health service providers as well as health organisations and individual practitioners. This is a new indicator. Sutherland Shire Council Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Survey (SSC NIPS) 1997 – 2007 rate of agreement regarding the following question: "I am able to express my concerns to Council about local issues" is used as an indicator to determine ethical operations and the community’s confidence in local government processes in Sutherland Shire.

Service satisfaction and involvement

Sustainability and value for Money Ethical operations Service satisfaction and involvement Evidence based decision making

Suggested indicators

Action taken on formal complaints to the Health Care Complaints Commission by LGA

Service satisfaction and involvement Levels of satisfaction with Sutherland Shire Council are measured using responses to a Customer Satisfaction telephone survey involving 400 residents selected at random. Responses to the survey question "How satisfied are you with the overall services and facilities provided in your area by Sutherland Shire Council?" 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2007 have been used for this indicator. This is a new indicator. No indicators were identified to measure service satisfaction and involvement by other levels of government or other organisations. SSC NIPS 2007 responses provide a measure of the community’s involvement, determined through the level of agreement to the statement"I believe I have a responsibility to be involved in planning for the Shire’s future".

Evidence based decision making No indicators were identified to measure evidence based decision making by other levels of government or other organisations. Use of reliable research to assist in decision making is a further measure. Council has a key role in determining a range of matters for the community now and in the future. The number of reports developed by officers to Council has been used as a measure for this indicator. This is a new indicator.

What is happening? Indicators:

Sustainability and value for Money Ethical operations Service satisfaction and involvement Evidence based decision making

Suggested indicators

Action taken on formal complaints to the Health Care Complaints Commission by LGA Sustainability and value for money State The most significant impacts for local government have been the high costs associated with the upgrade of ageing infrastructure, the impact of rate capping in revenue raising and the ageing workforce. Measures to mitigate the effects of these major issues are underway. Pressure Sutherland Shire Council rate increases are set by the State government. Significant pressure is being placed on Council as the population demographics shift to an increasingly ageing community. Emerging needs are being identified through consultation with the community to develop the Ageing Well in Sutherland Shire Strategy. Council will be examining the impacts of increasing numbers of retirees and pensioners who may require different services and facilities and who may be paying reduced rates. Fees and charges for services for those on a limited income must be considered and alternate sources of revenue and efficiency gains achieved to provide quality services.

Ethical operations State Reports of the Internal Ombudsman, give the local community a system to monitor the resolution of enquiries and concerns raised with Council. Ensuring that organisations are open and accountable gives the community confidence in governance systems. The table below illustrates a reduction in the number of matters received in the last 2007/08 reporting period compared to previous years. There has been some variation in reporting methods over time. Council has reported in more detail in 2007/08 than in previous years.

Table: Ombudsman matters finalised – Investigations 2004 - 2007/2008

Sustainability and value for Money Ethical operations Service satisfaction and involvement Evidence based decision making

Suggested indicators

Table: Ombudsman matters finalised – Investigations 2004 - 2007/2008

Ombudsman matters finalised – Investigations 2004 - 2007/2008

Jan - Dec Jan - Dec 2005/2006 2006/2007 2007/2008 2004 2005 Matters received 204 223 255 174 147 Referred - Directors -- -- 43 48 27 Phone Resolution -- -- 37 41 16 Investigations - Minor ------40 Investigations - Major ------9 Advice -- -- 64 30 28 FOI requests ------5 Refused -- 18 4 14 Incomplete complaints – insufficient information received ------6 Phone resolution/Probity advice (2004 and 2005 only) 71 82 ------Total finalised 89 214 204 138 145

* Prior to January 2007, Investigations and Probity advice figures were reported as a combined figure. Gaps in previous figures indicate that these statistics were not kept and reported on. Source: Sutherland Shire Council Ombudsman’s reports to Directors 2008

The NSW Ombudsman Annual Report 2004/05, 2005/06, 2006/07 shows the outcome of matters regarding Sutherland Shire Council referred for the office for assessment and action. In 2006/07, 20 matters were referred to the NSW Ombudsman regarding Sutherland Shire Council - adverse findings occurred in 2 matters.

Table: Action taken on formal complaints regarding Sutherland Shire Council

Action taken on formal complaints regarding Sutherland Shire Council

2004/2005 2005/2006 2006/2007 Assessment only 10 8 4 Preliminary or informal investigation Substantive advice 4 2 1 Advice/explanation 8 10 5 Further investigation declined - resources Resolved to Ombudsman’s satisfaction 6 3 7 Resolved by agency prior to intervention 2 1 1 Suggestions/comment made 0 0 0 Consolidated into other complaint 0 0 0 Conciliated/mediated 0 0 0 Formal investigation Resolved during investigation 0 0 0 Investigation discontinued 0 0 0 No adverse finding 0 0 0 Adverse finding 0 0 2 Total 30 24 20

Source: NSW Ombudsman Annual Reports 2004/05 – 2006/07

The NSW Health Care Complaints Commission data below shows that there have been significant increases in the number of matters referred to the Commission. In 2007/8 a total of 734 matters were referred to the NSW Health Care Complaints Commission for the South East Sydney and Illawarra Area Health Commission. There are no local indicators available for this issue. There has also been a significant increase in the number of cases referred to the Registration Page 168 Board. The following Copyright table © 2009 highlights Sutherland all Shire matters Council Page 169 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council and how they have been handled. Ombudsman matters finalised – Investigations 2004 - 2007/2008

Table: Action taken on formal complaints regarding Sutherland Shire Council

Action taken on formal complaints regarding Sutherland Shire Council

Source: NSW Ombudsman Annual Reports 2004/05 – 2006/07

The NSW Health Care Complaints Commission data below shows that there have been significant increases in the number of matters referred to the Commission. In 2007/8 a total of 734 matters were referred to the NSW Health Care Complaints Commission for the South East Sydney and Illawarra Area Health Commission. There are no local indicators available for this issue. There has also been a significant increase in the number of cases referred to the Registration Board. The following table highlights all matters and how they have been handled.

Table: Action taken on formal complaints to the Health Care Complaints Commission

Assessment decisions made in complaints about health service providers in South Eastern Sydney/Illawarra region 2004/05 to 2007/08

2004/2005 2005/2006 2006/2007 2007/2008 Discontinue 218 329 254 251 Refer to Registration Board 83 130 142 158 Resolution 67 142 71 141 Investigation 65 78 75 61 Conciliation 26 41 64 58 Resolved during assessment process 9 41 27 45 Refer to Another Body 15 10 14 20 Total 483 771 647 734

Source: Health Care Complaints Commission 2008

SSC NIPS responses to the question "I am able to express my concerns about local issues" is a measure which shows that residents believe their issues will be heard. In 2007, (11.9%) of respondents ‘Strongly agreed ‘with this statement and (60.7%) said they ‘agree’ a combined total of (72.6%). Those who said they ‘strongly disagree’ were (5.7%) and ‘disagree’ (11.3%) a combined total of (17%). The table below provides a snapshot of changes in response rates over time.

Table: Express concern to Council about local issues

Express concerns to Council about local issues

2007 2003 2000 1997 Strongly disagree 5.70% 4.50% 12.50% 1.80% Disagree 11.30% 13.60% 11.20% 8.20% Neither agree nor disagree 7.90% 7.20% 19.30% 13.70% Agree 60.50% 63.10% 35.70% 49.70% Strongly agree 11.90% 9.40% 21.30% 25.80% No Response 2.60% 2.30% 0.00% 0.80% Mean Agreement Score 3.7 3.6 3.4 3.9 (1 = strongly disagree, 5 = strongly agree) Total Respondents 518 531 502 503

Source: Sutherland Shire Council Neighbourhood Interaction and participation Survey 2007

Pressure Appropriate complaint handling and appeal systems are integral to good governance. Transparency and reporting enables information to be readily accessed and shows the public where legal and ethical decisions are made in the public interest. The 6 monthly Independent Ombudsman Reports to Council 2004/05 – 2007/08 highlight the resolution of matters brought to the attention of the Internal Ombudsman. Since 2004, an increasing number of matters have been resolved by telephone. Matters related to Sutherland Shire Council referred to the NSW Ombudsman decreased from 30 to 20 cases between 2004/05 and 2006/07. In 2006/07, adverse findings occurred in two cases, in the two years prior, no adverse findings occurred. Since the first SSC NIPS conducted in 1997, the proportion of respondents who ‘strongly agree’ with the Page 168 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council statement "I am able to express my concerns about Page local 169 issues " has decreased Copyright by © 2009 (13.9%) Sutherland however, Shire Council the proportion of those who ‘agree’ have increased, moving from (49.7%) in 1997 to (60.5%) in 2007. Neutral sentiments have also decreased over the ten year period. Over the coming years it will be important to maintain these levels of confidence in local decision making agencies and procedures.

Service satisfaction and involvement Table: Action taken on formal complaints to the Health Care Complaints Commission

Assessment decisions made in complaints about health service providers in South Eastern Sydney/Illawarra region 2004/05 to 2007/08

Source: Health Care Complaints Commission 2008

Table: Express concern to Council about local issues

Express concerns to Council about local issues

Source: Sutherland Shire Council Neighbourhood Interaction and participation Survey 2007

Pressure Appropriate complaint handling and appeal systems are integral to good governance. Transparency and reporting enables information to be readily accessed and shows the public where legal and ethical decisions are made in the public interest. The 6 monthly Independent Ombudsman Reports to Council 2004/05 – 2007/08 highlight the resolution of matters brought to the attention of the Internal Ombudsman. Since 2004, an increasing number of matters have been resolved by telephone. Matters related to Sutherland Shire Council referred to the NSW Ombudsman decreased from 30 to 20 cases between 2004/05 and 2006/07. In 2006/07, adverse findings occurred in two cases, in the two years prior, no adverse findings occurred. Since the first SSC NIPS conducted in 1997, the proportion of respondents who ‘strongly agree’ with the statement "I am able to express my concerns about local issues" has decreased by (13.9%) however, the proportion of those who ‘agree’ have increased, moving from (49.7%) in 1997 to (60.5%) in 2007. Neutral sentiments have also decreased over the ten year period. Over the coming years it will be important to maintain these levels of confidence in local decision making agencies and procedures.

Service satisfaction and involvement State Sutherland Shire Council’s Customer Satisfaction Surveys conducted between 2002 and 2007 show that a significant proportion of respondents have for the last 5 years a level of satisfaction with Council which exceeds industry benchmarks. Overall satisfaction rating in the last survey was 7.4 out of a possible 10.

Chart: Community satisfaction with Council 2002 – 2007

Note: In 2006 a survey was not undertaken, Council has moved to bi annual surveys Source: Sutherland Shire Council Annual Report 2006/7

Respondents to the last four SSC NIPS 1997 – 2007 were asked to indicate their level of agreement to the statement "I am prepared to be involved in issues concerning my local area". Analysis of results show that those who “agree” and those who “strongly agree” with the statement combined total (80.1%) of respondents.

Table: Community involvement

Page 170 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council Page 171 Copyright © 2009 Sutherland Shire Council State Sutherland Shire Council’s Customer Satisfaction Surveys conducted between 2002 and 2007 show that a significant proportion of respondents have for the last 5 years a level of satisfaction with Council which exceeds industry benchmarks. Overall satisfaction rating in the last survey was 7.4 out of a possible 10.

Chart: Community satisfaction with Council 2002 – 2007

Note: In 2006 a survey was not undertaken, Council has moved to bi annual surveys Source: Sutherland Shire Council Annual Report 2006/7

Table: Community involvement

Involvement in local area issues

2007 2003 2000 1997 Strongly disagree 1.60% 0.60% 3.00% 1.00% Disagree 10.70% 12.40% 8.60% 10.70% Neither agree nor disagree 6.70% 8.50% 24.30% 12.30% Agree 68.30% 66.50% 46.00% 53.70% Strongly agree 11.80% 10.50% 18.10% 22.10% No Response 0.90% 1.50% 0.00% 0.20% Mean Agreement Score 3.8 3.8 3.7 3.9 (1 = strongly disagree, 5 = strongly agree) Total Respondents 518 531 502 503

Source: Sutherland Shire Council NIPS 1997, 2000, 2003 and 2007

In 2007, (80.1%) of respondents indicated preparedness to become involved in community governance, an increase of (3.1%) since the previous 2003 survey.

Table: Involved in Planning Shire’s future

Responsibility to be involved in planning Shire's future

2007 2003 2000 1997 Strongly disagree 1.70% 0.80% 3.80% 2.00% Disagree 13.30% 11.90% 11.80% 12.30% Neither agree nor disagree 10.40% 9.00% 21.50% 18.30% Agree 59.60% 66.50% 42.00% 43.10% Strongly agree 13.60% 10.70% 20.90% 23.90% No Response 1.40% 1.10% 0.00% 0.40% Mean Agreement Score 3.7 3.8 3.6 3.7 (1 = strongly disagree, 5 = strongly agree) Total Respondents 518 531 502 503

Source: Sutherland Shire Council NIPS 1997, 2000, 2003 and 2007

Pressure Results of Sutherland Shire Council Customer Satisfaction Survey have overall rated 7.25 or more for the last 5 years. This is generally a high rating - independent research shows that an average satisfaction rating for a local Council is around 6 out of 10. Council has now moved to a bi-annual Customer Satisfaction Survey with the next survey being proposed for August /September 2009. In Sutherland Shire residents can become involved and informed in a variety of ways in local area issues. Residents have indicated their rates of involvement through SSC NIPS in the last 4 survey periods 1997 - 2007. There has been a steady increase in measures of involvement moving from (2%) of respondents in 1997 to (7.8%) in 2007, however the number of residents who were involved ‘often’ declined. show there was a decrease in both the proportion of those who “agree” and those who “strongly agree” with the statement in “I believe I have a responsibility to be involved in planning for the Shire’s future”. Analysis of these results, show in 2007, (73.2%) of respondents indicated preparedness to become involved planning for the Shires future, a decrease of (4%) since 2003. There is some evidence to suggest that communities want governments to undertake those things it has planned to do and wish to become involved in other ways.

Evidence based decision making

Source: Sutherland Shire Council NIPS 1997, 2000, 2003 and 2007

In 2007, (80.1%) of respondents indicated preparedness to become involved in community governance, an increase of (3.1%) since the previous 2003 survey.

Table: Involved in Planning Shire’s future

Responsibility to be involved in planning Shire's future

Source: Sutherland Shire Council NIPS 1997, 2000, 2003 and 2007

Evidence based decision making State In 2007/08 Council considered 874 reports. All reports are made available electronically on Council’s website. Residents are able to attend committee meetings and full Council meetings. Meeting dates and reports are listed for the information of the public.

Table: Total reports to Council 2003/04 – 2007/08

Reports to Sutherland Shire Council for the last 5 years

2003/04 1319 2004/05 1053 2005/06 1129 2006/07 1020 2007/08 874

Source: Sutherland Shire Council Business Reports 2003/4 – 2007/08

Pressure Recent initiatives within Council to better integrate planning and reporting has reduced the number of reports to Council. Reporting has been streamlined, the total number of committees and meetings per anum has been reduced creating efficiencies, reducing administrative costs and freeing up resources for service delivery. Between 2003/04 and 2007/08 committee meetings have been reduced by 1/3.

What is the response? Indicators:

Sustainability and value for Money Ethical operations Service satisfaction and involvement Evidence based decision making

Suggested indicators

Action taken on formal complaints to the Health Care Complaints Commission by LGA Sustainability and value for money Sutherland Shire Council Quadruple Bottom Line Management Plan and Annual Report are made available to the public in line with the requirements of the NSW Department of Local Government each year. Adopted plans and reports are available to the public and located at Council’s main administration building, in libraries, on the website and can be provided in hard copy. Annual Management Plans show what Sutherland Shire Council aims to do to each year to work toward achieving its long term strategic vision. All Management Plans and budgets are aligned, developed in draft and made available through to the community through public exhibition. Annual Reporting enables the community to be informed on how well Council met its objectives. Sutherland Shire Council’s Annual Report indicates all income and expenditure by principle activity. Sutherland Shire Council will continue to provide donations to individuals and community organisations through the Section 356 Donations framework and will continue to provide grant funding to community organisations meeting the selection criteria. Sutherland Shire Council will utilise grant funding and sponsorship funding in line with agreed policies and arrangements to benefit the local community.

Ethical operations Sutherland Shire Council will continue to monitor the nature and timeframes for resolution of matters referred to the Internal Ombudsman. There is an emphasis on speedy and effective resolution of matters and increased efforts to refer complaints to the appropriate senior manager for resolution. Following the 2008 Local Government elections, induction training for new Councillors was provided. A review of all related Council policy regarding the review of the Model Code of Conduct, Political Donations and amendments to the Local Government Act and the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act released June 2008 will require a review of Councils policies and practices in relation to this legislation. The Ombudsman’s Office will also arrange ethics training for all staff which will be delivered throughout 2008/09 and 2009/10. Council will also review the Customer Response Policy, Review the Whistleblowers Policy and Pecuniary Interest policy.

Service satisfaction and involvement

Sustainability and value for Money Ethical operations Service satisfaction and involvement Evidence based decision making

Suggested indicators

Service satisfaction and involvement In 2010 Sutherland Shire Council will conduct a follow up survey regarding specific matters raised through a customer satisfaction survey gap analysis in 2006. The follow up survey will assess trends in satisfaction ratings regarding the matters raised. Considerable resources and redirection of funding has occurred to achieve improvements. Comparisons to 2006 responses will detail satisfaction with the measures put in place by Council to rectify the matters listed. Sutherland Shire Council is investigating new engagement strategies to enable residents to provide comment to Council through means other than committee meeting attendance. Council has successfully utilised telephone consultation strategies for customer surveys for the last 5 years. Engagement with residents has occurred utilising newer technologies; email feedback has been used successfully used to consult and to gain feedback for important policy matters such as the Ageing Well Strategy. State government departments and non government organisations have a number of customer committees advising government regarding services. Consumer committees in Sutherland Shire play an active role in informing agencies about their services from the customer’s perspective. Voluntary community based management committees are involved in managing and running local not for profit services. Committees operate at a range of government and not for profit organisations including Sutherland Hospital, Housing NSW and local community and neighbourhood and youth services. Organisations that have an emphasis encouraging community involvement have committees and panels to act as a check and balance for decision making. All Sutherland Shire Council sub-committees include community representatives. Nominations for membership of these committees are held every 2 years. In 2006/07 there were 30 committees operating, addressing a range of social, economic and environmental issues. Depending on the number of committees operating in any one year, over the last 5 years since 2003 there have been between 814 and 612 individual attendances per year at Council sub-committee or advisory committee meetings. Ensuring that these members are representative of the community and developing alternate mechanisms for community engagement will be important next steps for Sutherland Shire Council in the years ahead. Both the number of meetings held and the number of individual attendances has declined over the last 5 years.

Evidence based decision making Sutherland Shire Council will continue to provide open public Council meetings and access to reports both in hard copy and electronic formats. Council will also continue to operate within the Freedom of Information Act and privacy legislation to ensure that interested stakeholders may access the information that they require. Further strategies such as presentations, briefings and consultations are in place to inform Councillors and the community regarding important matters.

Decisions about future directions for Sutherland Shire if based on the evidence provided in this report will ensure that the appropriate changes are made to improve the sustainability of the Shire. These decisions range from personal commitments through to the resolutions of local not for profit organisations, local businesses and major decisions of all tiers of government. Decisions and resources must be redirected to address those key directions considered to be unsustainable matters. The intention of the report is to inform the community about trends that are occurring, enable people to see comparisons and assess the impacts for the community. The report highlights where activity is becoming unsustainable, irreversible or may negatively impact the wellbeing of current and future generations. In many key directions the Shire is moving toward the vision identified in the Guide – the Shires 30 year strategic plan. The matters that have improved somewhat since the last report undertaken in 2004 are: Those issues that continue to be of concern are:

Place (Housing) Place (Transport) and; Nature (Environment)

The fact that these adverse trends continue should concern all of us. Transport and Environment have been scored as moving away from the vision since 2000 and continue now, 8 years later. Council is only one of several stakeholders and it is evident that more decision making based on these evidence based facts must be undertaken to move toward the Shires vision.

Additional Information:

Reference List (PDF - 117KB)

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Stormwater quality improvement device installations 2005/06-2006/07 Project Year Cost Tudor Road, Sutherland: The gross pollutant trap (GPT) previously in place 2005/06 $30,000 was modernised to enhance its performance and simplify the maintenance procedure. Forum Drive, Heathcote: A new gross pollutant trap (GPT) was installed 2005/06 $20,000 servicing a 15 hectare catchment area. Funds were jointly provided by Council and a private developer. Nicholson Parade, Cronulla: Three gross pollutant traps (GPT) were installed 2006/07 $240,000 to trap pollutants from entering Gunnamatta Bay. Uloola Place, Gymea Bay: Installed a GPT to trap litter and debris prior to 2006/07 $101,500 discharge into North West Arm. Dents Creek, Gymea Bay: A trash rack was constructed on Dents Creek to 2006/07 $60,000 trap litter and debris prior to discharge into North West Arm. Whites Avenue, Caringbah: A net type litter trap was installed on the 2006/07 $16,500 stormwater outfall at the end of Whites Avenue which also included Bushcare works. Burraneer Bay Road, Yowie Bay: The existing GPT installation at the end of 2006/07 $138,995 Burraneer Bay Road was replaced. Bundeena Creek, Bundeena: Two stormwater outfalls were combined into one 2006/07 $129,580 and a GPT was installed at the outfall. Ash Avenue and Crescent Road, Caringbah: A large trash rack and two GPTs 2006/07 $190,100 were constructed on stormwater drains that flow out to Great Turriell Bay and Port Hacking. Prince Edward Park Road, Woronora: Two GPTs were installed adjacent to 2006/07 $160,800 Prince Edward Park Wharf. Stirling Avenue, Kirrawee: A GPT was installed in the drain that discharges to 2006/07 $30,000 the public reserve. Gwawley Creek: The existing and badly damaged trash rack on Gwawley 2006/07 $60,000 Creek was upgraded to improve its performance. Ingalara Avenue, Cronulla: A GPT was installed on the stormwater outfall at 2006/07 $25,000 the end of Ingalara Avenue. Goorgool Road, Bangor: Small trash rack installed. 2006/07 $10,000 Gore Avenue, Kirrawee: A small trash rack was installed at Gore Lane, 2006/07 $30,000 Kirrawee in Savilles Creek Reserve. Woodlands Road, Taren Point: A trash rack was constructed in the reserve. 2006/07 $54,517 Rawson Avenue, Loftus: Trash rack was constructed at the Sutherland Shire 2006/07 $21,960 Economic Hub for Economic Development (SSHED) to capture gross litter and sediment originating at the adjacent Loftus TAFE campus. The project was funded by the Property Division at Sutherland Shire Council. Stormwater Quality Infrastructure Maintenance: Maintenance and upgrades of 2006/07 $154,272.00 stormwater quality infrastructure such as GPTs, trash racks and wetlands. Projects include: repairs to Mina Road wetland, Menai; Repairs to Tudar Road wetland, Jannali and dredging at Gymea Bay. *Source: State of the Environment Report 2007 Appendix 3 Nature Direction 3

EPA Waste Licences for Sutherland Shire Council 2007/2008 Company Name Suburb Waste Licence Description McNeil Manufacturing Caringbah Chemical Storage – Storage of Petroleum and/or Petroleum products (25) Hazardous, Industrial or Group A Waste Generation or Storage (73) Pharmaceutical or Veterinary Products Production (20) HC Extractions Pty Ltd Kurnell Chemical Storage – Storage of Petroleum and/or Petroleum products (25) Hazardous, Industrial or Group A Waste Generation or Storage (73) Petroleum Refining (68) Continental Carbon Australia Kurnell Chemical Storage – Storage of Pty Ltd Petroleum and/or Petroleum products (with assessable pollutants) (25) Hazardous, Industrial or Group A Waste Generation or Storage (73) Other Activities (94) Caltex Refineries (NSW) Pty Kurnell Chemical Storage – Storage of Ltd Petroleum and/or Petroleum products (with assessable pollutants) (25) Hazardous, Industrial or Group A Waste Generation or Storage (73) Petroleum Refining (68) Waste Recycling and Lucas Composting and Related Processing Corporation Heights Reprocessing or Treatment (29) Environmentally Sensitive or Inappropriate Landfilling (81)

Page 1 of 4 Solid Waste Landfilling (79) Waste Storage, Transfer, Separating or Processing (84) Hazardous, Industrial or Group A Waste Generation or Storage (73) Concrite Pty Ltd Kirrawee Concrete Batching (30) Concrite Pty Ltd Lucas Concrete Batching (30) Heights Cemex Australia Pty Ltd Caringbah Concrete Batching (30) Boral Resources (NSW) Pty Taren Point Concrete Batching (30) Ltd Hanson Construction Materials Caringbah Concrete Batching (30) Pty Ltd Handycrete Concrete Pty Ltd Kirrawee Concrete Batching (30) Chipping Norton Lake Sandy Point Crushing, Grinding or Separating Authority Works (32) Breen Holdings Pty Ltd Kurnell Crushing, Grinding or Separating Works (32) Inert Waste Landfilling (77) EDL LFG (NSW) Pty Ltd Menai Electricity Generation – Generation of electrical power from gas (34(b)) EDL LFG (NSW) Pty Ltd Lucas Electricity Generation – Generation Heights of electrical power from gas (34(b)) President Private Hospital Pty Kirrawee Hazardous, Industrial or Group A Ltd Waste Generation or Storage (73) HCOA Operations (Australia) Caringbah Hazardous, Industrial or Group A Pty Ltd Waste Generation or Storage (73) Enware Australia Pty Ltd Caringbah Hazardous, Industrial or Group A Waste Generation or Storage (73) South Eastern Sydney and Caringbah Hazardous, Industrial or Group A Illawarra Area Health Service Waste Generation or Storage (73)

Chevron International Kurnell Hazardous, Industrial or Group A Technical Centre Pty Ltd Waste Generation or Storage (73)

Page 2 of 4 Lothway T.B.S Pty Ltd Sylvania Hazardous, Industrial or Group A Waste Generation or Storage (73) Besmaw Pty Ltd Kurnell Other Activities (94) State of NSW (Department of Audley Other Activities (94) Environment and Climate Change) Sutherland Shire Council Sutherland Other Activities (94) Rocla Pty Ltd Kurnell Other Land-Based Extraction (37) Shell Point Marine Pty Ltd Taren Point Other Vessel Construction or Maintenance (54) Lewis Anchorages Pty Ltd Taren Point Other Vessel Construction or Maintenance (54) Sydney Water Corporation Kurnell Sewage Treatment – processing by large plants (>10000ML per year) (71(b)) VISY Paper Pty Ltd Taren Point Waste Storage, Transfer, Separating or Processing (84) Pioneer Waste Management Taren Point Transport of Hazardous, Industrial, Australia Pty Ltd Group A, Group B, or Group C Waste (89) Transport of Used, Rejected or Unwanted Tyres (88) Watt; Richard Transport of Hazardous, Industrial, Group A, Group B, or Group C Waste (89) Scent Washroom Services Pty Transport of Hazardous, Industrial, Ltd Group A, Group B, or Group C Waste (89) Kerr; Blair Leslie Andrew Transport of Hazardous, Industrial, Group A, Group B, or Group C Waste (89) Mann’s Earthmoving Co. Pty Transport of Hazardous, Industrial, Ltd Group A, Group B, or Group C Waste (89) Transport of Used, Rejected or

Page 3 of 4 Unwanted Tyres (88) Lion Earthworks Pty Ltd Transport of Hazardous, Industrial, Group A, Group B, or Group C Waste (89) Transport of Used, Rejected or Unwanted Tyres (88) Phantom Recyclers Pty Ltd Transport of Hazardous, Industrial, Group A, Group B, or Group C Waste (89) Mackenzie; Mark William Transport of Hazardous, Industrial, Group A, Group B, or Group C Waste (89)

Page 4 of 4 Appendix 4 Nature Direction 3

Endangered Ecological Communities in the Sutherland Shire listed under the Threatened Species Conservation (TSC) Act 1995 or Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act 1999 Endangered Ecological Description Status Distribution Community in the Sutherland Shire Sydney Turpentine Ironbark Tall open forest restricted to the Wianamatta Shale soils. Characteristic Endangered Lucas Hts; Menai; East Forest. tree species include Syncarpia glomulifera; Eucalyptus paniculata; TSC/ EPBC Heathcote; Sutherland; Eucalyptus fibrosa, Acacia decurrens; Eucalyptus globoidea. Understorey Kirrawee and scattered includes indicative species such as Acacia parvipinnula, Bursaria spinosa, remnants along the Daviesia ulicifolia, Dillwynia parvifolia, Themeda australis and Linum Kingsway to Woolooware. marginale. Shale/ Sandstone Transition Open forest or woodland on Wianamatta Shale soils or shale lenses. Endangered Lucas Hts; Menai; East Forest in the Sydney Basin Species can be common to STIF and include more typical sandstone TSC/ EPBC Heathcote, Miranda. Bioregion. species. Expected on lower elevations adjacent to STIF.

Kurnell Dune Forest. Coastal low open forest with distinct mesophyll elements and climbing Endangered Kurnell Peninsula; species including Cupaniopsis anacardiodes; Eucalyptus robusta; TSC Bundeena; Maianbar Monotoca elliptica; Cissus hypoglauca and Stephania japonica. Mostly on old sand dunes.

Bangalay Sand Forest This community occurs on deep sandy foredune and hind dune areas. It is Endangered Northern limit is Towra an open forest community dominated by Eucalyptus botryoides, Banksia TSC Point and Bundeena integrifolia and occasionally Eucalyptus pilularis. Understorey species include Banksia serrata, Leptospermum laevigatum, Dianella caerulea, Lepidosperma concavum, Microlaena stipoides and Lomandra longifolia. This community overlaps with Kurnell Dune Forest which generally has more mesophilic understorey such as Maclura cochinchinenesis and Cissus hypoglauca NSW Littoral Rainforest. Small forest areas on Hawkesbury Sandstone or occasionally on hind Endangered Kurnell; Bundeena; Lilli (Replaces Sutherland Shire dune soils. Distinct representation of rainforest spp. Including: Acmena TSC Pilli; Grays Point; Gymea; Littoral Rainforest) smithii; Cupaniopsis anacardiodes; Euroschinus falcata; Schizomeria Caringbah and scattered ovata; Celtis paniculata; Ficus spp. Soils are mostly high in organic matter elsewhere

Page 1 of 3 and often associated with Aboriginal middens.

River-Flat Eucalypt Forest on Associated with rivers and creeks on floodplains of the Georges, Woronora Endangered Woronora R; Georges R; Coastal Floodplains. and Hacking Rivers. Soils are generally alluvial sand less influenced by TSC Hacking R (Replaces Sydney Coastal River- saline conditions than Swamp Sclerophyll Forest. Typical canopy species Flat Forest) include: Eucalyptus tereticornis;Eucalyptus botryoides x saligna; Angophora floribunda; Melaleuca linariifolia; Melaleuca stypheliodes. Swamp Sclerophyll Forest on Wetlands occurring on estuarine alluvial soils generally close to the coast. Endangered Kurnell, Bundeena, Coastal Floodplains. Can include forests with a canopy including Eucalyptus robusta, E TSC Maianbar. (Replaces Sydney Coastal botryoides; Casuarina glauca; Livistona australis and Melaleuca ericifolia. Estuary Swamp Forest Complex) Understorey is diverse and includes typical sedges and rushes including Gahnia clarkei, Carex appressa, Baumea juncea, Phragmites australis and ferns such as Hypolepis muelleri.

Swamp Oak Floodplain Forest On coastal areas affected by saline conditions. Dominated by Casuarina Endangered Kurnell, Woronora River, glauca and occasionally other species such as Glochidion ferdinandi. TSC Bundeena, Woolooware There is usually an absence of Eucalypts which distinguish this community Bay, Grays Point, from Swamp Sclerophyll Forest. Ground cover is characterised by forbs, Sylvania. grasses and herbaceous species including Tetragonia tetragonoides, Baumea juncea, Commelina cyanea, Juncus krausii, and Phragmites australis. The vine Parsonsia straminea is often present.

NSW Coastal Saltmarsh. Saltmarsh occurs within the intertidal zone on shores of estuaries and Endangered Towra Point, Kurnell, lagoons generally at higher elevations than mangrove communities. TSC Bundeena, Maianbar, Vegetation is usually herbaceous, though scattered mangrove trees and Georges, Hacking and their seedlings often occur within Saltmarsh communities. Characteristic Woronora rivers species include Sarcocornia quinqueflora, Baumea juncea, Juncus krausii, Sporobolus virginicus, Suada australis, Samolus repens, Selliera radicans, Zoysia macrantha, Isolepis nodosa and Triglochin striata.

Sydney Freshwater Wetlands Freshwater wetlands occur in swales and depressions in sand dunes and Endandred Kurnell; Bundeena; RNP; low nutrient sand plains. The extent of wetlands varies depending on TSC rainfall events. Typical spp. include: Gahnia spp.; Baumea spp.; Cyperus spp; Juncus spp; Gleichenia dicarpa; Typha orientalis and Cladium procerum. Trees usually found on the perimeter of wetlands include

Page 2 of 3 Melaleuca quinquenervia; Melaleuca stypheliodes, Melaleuca ericifolia.

Southern Sydney Sheltered An open forest community associated with upper slopes and sheltered Endangered Southern areas of RNP, Forest on Transitional Sandstone heads of gullies where soils are influenced from movement of moisture, TSC possibly Prince Edward Soils sediment and nutrients from adjacent shale or dolerite dykes. Topography Park and Grays Point. is generally not steep and there is less sandstone outcrops that sandstone gully forests. Dominant trees include Angophora costata, Eucalyptus piperita, Eucalyptus gummifera and around the Sutherland Shire Eucalyptus pilularis. Understorey species include Allocasuarina littoralis, Acacia binervata Banksia serrata, Elaeocarpus reticulatus Doryanthes excelsa and a variety of species typical of Sydney Sandstone communities. Themeda Grassland on Sea The structure of the community is typically closed tussock grassland but Endangered Coastal Royal NP eg Cliffs and Coastal Headlands may also be open shrub land or heath with grass in between. The Garie and Era headlands dominant species is Themeda australis with other trees, shrubs and herbs TSC including Banksia integrifolia, Leptospermum laevigatum, Pimelia linifolia, and Hibbertia scandens. Taren Point Shorebird A community of shorebirds (also known as waders). Many species migrate Endangered On the relic Holocene Community to Japan, China and Siberia. Species include Bar-tailed Godwit, Common TSC muddy sandflat between Greenshank, Whimberal, Eastern Curlew, Terek Sandpiper, Ruddy Captain Cook Bridge and Turnstone, Pied Oystercatcher Shell Point on Botany Bay.

Page 3 of 3 Appendix 5 Nature Direction 3

Endangered Fauna Species recorded in the Sutherland Shire in the last 30 years (compiled from National Parks and Wildlife Service, Australian Museum and Sutherland Shire Council data).

Common name Status Habitat Where recorded Species name # Green and Golden E Freshwater ponds or Kurnell, Menai Bell Frog Litoria creeks especially those aurea with reed growth Giant Burrowing Frog V Banks of small creeks in Waterfall, Menai, Heathcote, Heleioporus coastal ranges Engadine australiacus Red Crowned Toadlet V Creek banks and crevices Waterfall, Menai, Engadine, in Hawkesbury sandstone Royal National Park Pseudophryne areas australis Great Barred Frog V Wet sclerophyll forest, east Royal National Park, Darkes Mixophyes balbus of Great Dividing Range, Forest near running streams Wallum Froglet V Freshwater ponds and Kurnell Crinia tinnula creeks Broad Headed Snake E Sandstone outcrops Waterfall, Royal National Hoplocephalus Park, Woronora Dam, bungaroides Heathcote, Bundeena Rosenberg’s Goanna V Coastal heaths, humid Loftus, Royal National Park, Varanus rosenberg woodlands and both wet Waterfall and dry sclerophyll forests Green Turtle V Shallow, warm temperate Cronulla, Royal National Park Chelonia mydas and tropical coastal waters Little Tern E Inshore waters and sand Split Island, Botany Bay, Sterna albifrons banks, nests in sand North Cronulla Beach Sooty Tern V Tropical and subtropical Cronulla Beach Sterna fuscata coastal waters White Tern V Tropical and subtropical Botany Bay National Park oceans and islands Gygis alba Grey Ternlet V Coastal waters, nesting on Botany Bay National Park Procelsterna cerulea islands Beach Stone-Curlew E Reefs, beaches and Maianbar (June and July (or Beach Thick-knee) coastal mudflats normally 1998) Burhinus neglectus in far northern Australia

Page 1 of 5 Bush Stone Curlew E1 Open woodland, sandy Towra scrub Burhinus grallarius Little Shearwater V Coastal, breeds on Big Marley Beach, North Puffinus assimilus offshore islands Cronulla Beach Fleshy-footed V Coastal, nests in burrows Boat Harbour, Royal National Shearwater on offshore islands Park Puffinus carneipes Australasian (Brown) V Streams, lakes and Kurnell Bittern swamps Botaurus poiciloptilus Black Bittern V Streams, lakes and Kurnell Ixobrychus Flavicollis swamps Sooty Oyster Catcher V Sea coast, particularly rock Boat Harbour Haematopus ledges, reefs and tidal fuliginosus pools Pied Oystercatcher V Sandy beaches, mudflats Towra Point, Royal National Haematopus and estuaries, nests in Park longirostris scrapes in sand Osprey V Rivers, lakes and coastal Botany Bay National Park Pandion haliaetus inlets Southern Giant Petrel E1 Oceanic, coastal waters Botany Bay National Park, Macronectes Royal National Park giganteus Gould’s Petrel E1 Oceanic, beachdrifts Boat Harbour Pterodroma leucoptera Kermadic Petrel V Oceanic, breeds on Botany Bay National Park Pterodroma neglecta offshore islands Black-winged Petrel V Oceanic, coastal waters Cronulla, Boat Harbour Pterodroma nigripennis Providence Petrel V Offshore waters Boat Harbour Pterodroma solandri Wandering Albatross E1 Oceanic coastal seas, Royal National Park Diomeda exulams habitually follows fishing boats Shy Albatross V Breeds remote south-east Cronulla Beach islands, oceanic. Follows Diomedia cauta fishing vessels Black-Browed V Oceanic, follows ships, Cronulla Beach Albatross visits inland waters along south coast Diomedia melanophrys Sooty Albatross V Oceanic, southern coast Garie

Phoebetria fuscata Terek Sandpiper V Coastal mudflats, Kurnell, Royal National Park Tringa terek/Xenus occasionally inland cinereus Broad-billed V Coastal lagoons, reefs or Woolooware Bay, Towra

Page 2 of 5 Sandpiper shallows

Limicola falcinellus Blue-Billed Duck V Deep, heavily vegetated Towra freshwater ponds and Oxyura australis creeks Sooty Owl V Tall open or closed forest, Royal National Park, Tyto tenebricosa especially in gullies Engadine, Loftus, Lilli Pilli, Kurnell Masked Owl V Dense forest in coastal Royal National Park, East Tyto novaehollandiae regions Heathcote Barking Owl V Drier Open forest, Royal National Park Ninox connivens woodland and wooded watercourses Powerful Owl V Mountainous forests and Royal National Park, Ninox strenua streams Woronora Valley Sanderling V Ocean beaches Boat Harbour Calidris alba Great Knot V Tidal mudflats, rarely Boat Harbour Calidris tenirostris inland Mongolian Plover V Tidal sand and mudflats Boat Harbour, Potter Point Charadrius mongolus Large Sand Plover V Shores, marshes, rarely Boat Harbour, Kurnell Charadrius inland leschenaulti Rose-crowned Fruit V Forest, rainforest and Royal National Park Dove mangroves Ptilinopus regina Superb Fruit Dove V Rainforest, forest and Engadine Ptilinopus superbus mangroves Purple Crowned V Drier open forests, Gymea Lorikeet woodland and mallee of Glossopstitta southern Australia porphyrocephala Red-rumped Parrot V Open woodland Caringbah, Kurnell, West Psephotus Menai haematonotus

Page 3 of 5 Glossy Black V Casuarina woodlands Sutherland Cockatoo Calyptorhynchus lathami Major Mitchell’s V Intermittent visitor Sutherland Shire Cockatoo Cacatua leadbeateri Gang-gang Cockatoo V Intermittent visitor Sutherland Shire Callocephalon fimbriatum Swift Parrot E1 Sclerophyll forest and Botany Bay Lathamus discolor woodland Eastern Ground V Open Forest, woodland Royal National Park Parrot Pezoporus wallicus wallicus Superb Parrot V Open Forest, woodland, Royal National Park, riverine floodplains Bundeena, Botany Bay Polytelis swainsonii National Park Square-tailed Kite V Open forest or scrub near Waterfall Lophoctinia isura watercourses or coasts Regent Honeyeater V Woodland and open forest Royal National Park Xanthomyza phyriga Pink Robin V Woodland and open forest Royal National Park Petroica rodinogaster Brown Treecreeper E1 Drier forests and West Menai Climacteris picumnus woodlands Speckled Warbler V Open Woodland Royal National Park Sericornis sagittatus Yellow-bellied V Temperate to tropical Sutherland Shire Sheathtail Bat woodland, sclerophyll Saccolaimus forest and rainforest flaviventris Large-eared Bat V Warm temperate to Wedderburn * Chalinobolus dwyeri subtropical dry sclerophyll forest to woodland Common Bent Wing V Cool to tropical wet and dry Royal National Park, Taren Bat sclerophyll forest Point Miniopterus schreibersii Large Footed Mouse V Rainforest near Audley, Darkes Forest, Eared Bat watercourses Holsworthy MA Myotis adversus Great Broad Nosed V Tree lined creeks, Holsworthy Military Area Bat woodlands and rainforests, Nycticeius rueppelli roosts in tree hollows Eastern False V Hollows in wet sclerophyll Royal National park Pipestrelle forest Falsistrellus tasmaniensis Greater Broad-nosed V Tree lined creeks and Royal National Park, Bat rainforests Woronora Valley Scoteanax reuppellii

Page 4 of 5 Eastern Little Mastiff- V Coastal sclerophyll forest Royal National Park bat and woodland Mormopterus norfolkensis Grey-headed Flying V Coastal rainforest, closed Kurnell, West Menai, Royal Fox forest, mangroves. National Park Pteropus poliocephalus Yellow-bellied Glider V Tall, mature eucalypt Holsworthy Military Area, Petaurus australis forests, in temperate and West Menai subtropical areas. Koala V Wet and dry eucalypt Woronora Dam, Heathcote Phascolarctus forest, tropics to cool- National Park, West Menai cinereus temperate regions Eastern Pygmy V Forests with Banksia and Royal N.P, Grays Point Possum Eucalypt Certcartetus nanus Spotted Tail (Tiger) V Sclerophyll forests and Waterfall Quoll rainforests floors Dasyurus maculatus Giant Dragonfly E Permanent wetlands (both Royal National Park Petalura gigantea coastal and upland) from Moss Vale to southern Queensland Grays Point Beetle ** Littoral Rainforest with Grays Point Native Celtis Mennipus fugitivis

V = Vulnerable E1 = Endangered (Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995)

Page 5 of 5 Appendix 6 Nature Direction 3

National, State and locally significant flora of Sutherland Shire

The following species are either: • Nationally significant-Listed on the Briggs and Leigh Rare or Threatened Australian Plants (ROTAP) database. • Federally listed on the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act 1999. • NSW significant-Listed on schedule 1or 2 of the NSW Threatened Species Conservation (TSC) Act 1995. Locally significant- (Sa) occurring in less than 10 urban locations but adequately reserved in a regional national park. (Si) occurring in less than 10 urban locations and inadequately reserved in a regional national park.

(An Urban location is a Council or Crown Reserve or on private property.)

ROTAP EPBC TSC Local Species Status Status Status Significan Habitat Location ce Acacia bynoeana 3VC- Vulnerable Vulnerable Heath and woodland on sandstone Heathcote; Royal National Park Acacia parvipinnula Si Wianamatta Shale soils Menai, Kirrawee Acacia pubescens 2VCa Vulnerable Vulnerable Exposed ridge tops on Wianamatta Barden Ridge shale Acacia rubida Si Sandstone slopes West Menai Acacia terminalis ssp. Endanger Endanger Kurnell terminalis ed ed Acianthus caudatus Sa Protected sandstone benches Grays Point; Gymea Bay; Jannali Woronora Valley; Royal National Park Acianthus exsertus Sa Protected sandstone benches Gymea Bay; Lilli Pilli; Grays Point; Jannali; Royal National Park, Loftus Allocasuarina diminuta Si Heath West Menai; Lucas Hts ssp mimica Allocasuarina glareiocola 2V Endanger Lateritic ridges Holsworthy

Page 1 of 8 ROTAP EPBC TSC Local Species Status Status Status Significan Habitat Location ce ed Alphitonia excelsa Sa Rainforests Royal National Park; Grays Pt Angophora costata x Si Woodland, on exposed sandstone West Menai; Yarrawarrah hispida ridges Angophora floribunda Si Alluvial soils Cronulla; Woronora Floodplain; Royal National Park Astrotricha latifolia Si Sandstone slopes. Mill Creek, Menai Austrocynoglossum Si Rainforest margins and wet Coonong Creek latifolium sclerophyll forest. Bertya brownii 2RC- Sheltered sandstone gullies. Mill Creek Blechnum indicum Sa Swamp margins Kurnell; Botany Bay NP Boronia floribunda Sa Open forest on sandstone Engadine; Royal National Park Boronia serrulata 2RC- Heath Royal National Park; Heathcote NP Bossiaea prostrata Si Clay/ shale plateaus Menai Brunoniella australis Si Wianamatta Shale Menai Caladenia caerulea Sa Open forests Sutherland; Royal National Park Caladenia picta Sa Woodland and open forest Jannali; Illawong Caladenia tessellata 3V Vulnerable Sheltered moist locations Kurnell Caleana major Sa Woodland on exposed sandstone Engadine; Jannali; Woronora Valley; ridges Royal National Park, Loftus Callistemon linearifolius Vulnerable Sheltered moist locations Audley Callistemon subulatus Sa Rocky creek banks. Woronora Valley; Heathcote NP Callitris muelleri Sa Rocky sandstone slopes Gymea; Woronora Hts; Heathcote NP Cassine australis var Sa Littoral Rainforest Lilli Pilli Point; Royal National Park australis Cassinia quinquefaria Si Dry sandstone slopes Yarrawarrah Caustis recurvata var Sa Heath and woodland Royal National Park hirsuta Celtis paniculata Si Littoral Rainforest Lilli Pilli Point; Grays Point; Royal National Park Chiloglottis trilabra Si Sheltered gullies Miranda

Page 2 of 8 ROTAP EPBC TSC Local Species Status Status Status Significan Habitat Location ce Cladium procerum Si Freshwater wetlands Martin St Kurnell; Marley Lagoon Claoxylon australe Si Littoral rainforest Lilli Pilli Point Cupaniopsis Sa Old hind dune sands and littoral Kurnell; Bundeena; Cronulla; Lilli Pilli anacardioides rainforest Point; Burraneer Point; Royal National Park Cyclosorus interuptus Si Freshwater swamps Woronora Valley; Sydney Water Catchment Area, Still Creek, Marton Park Cyrtostylis reniformis Si Shady protected sandstone slopes Gymea Bay; Grays Point, Kangaroo Creek RNP Darwinia diminuta 2RCi Ridge top woodland with ironstone Engadine; Heathcote; Woronora Hts; influence. Royal National Park; Heathcote NP Darwinia grandiflora 2RCi Ridge top heath and woodland. Holsworthy; Royal National Park; Sydney Water Catchment Area Daviesia acicularis Si Clay/shale plateaus Menai Dillwynia parvifolia Si Clay/ shale plateaus Menai. Dipodium punctatum Sa Protected sandstone slopes Caringbah; Royal National Park Diuris sulphurea Sa Exposed clay soils Jannali; Lucas Heights Dockrillia linguiformis Sa Lithophyte Scattered Dockrillia speciosum Sa Lithophyte Burraneer; Grays Point; Royal National Park Dockrillia striolatum Si Lithophyte Heathcote NP Dockrillia teretifolia Si Lithophyte /epiphyte Illawong; Grays Pt; Royal National Park Emmenospermum Si Sub-tropical and Littoral rainforests Royal National Park; Lilli Pilli alphitonioides Endiandra sieberi Si Littoral rainforest Gymea Bay; Cronulla; Royal National Park Epacris crassifolia Si Rocky cliff faces Burraneer Point Erythrorchis Si Woodland and open forest. climbing West Menai; Yowie Bay; Royal cassythoides trees National Park, Loftus

Page 3 of 8 ROTAP EPBC TSC Local Species Status Status Status Significan Habitat Location ce Eucalyptus bauerana Si Riverflat vegetation. Sandy Point Eucalyptus camfieldii 2VCi Vulnerable Vulnerable Exposed sandstone ridges. Royal National Park Eucalyptus consideniana Sa Exposed sandstone ridges Engadine; Royal National Park, Heathcote NP Eucalyptus longifolia Si Sandstone slopes Woolooware Eucalyptus 2RCa Exposed sandstone ridges. Engadine; Heathcote NP; Holsworthy; luehmanniana Woronora Hts; Sydney Water Catchment Area Eucalyptus multicaulis Sa Exposed sandstone and ironstone Woronora Heights; Royal National ridges Park Eucalyptus obstans Sa Exposed sandstone ridges Burraneer Point; Royal National Park Eucalyptus saligna Sa Clay/ shale plateaus and fertile East Heathcote; Royal National Park, protected gullies Woronora Valley Eucalyptus squamosa Sa Exposed sandstone and ironstone Kareela; Loftus; Yarrawarrah; ridges Woronora Hts; Royal National Park, Menai, Eucalyptus stricta Si Exposed sandstone and ironstone Heathcote NP. ridges Eupomatia laurina Sa Subtropical and littoral rainforests Royal National Park; Turriel Bay Euroschinus falcata Si Subtropical and littoral rainforests Gymea Bay; Grays Point ; Royal National Park Ficus coronata Sa Kurnell Dune forest; Sutherland Kurnell; Royal National Park Shire Littoral RF; S.tropical RF. Ficus superba var Si Subtropical and littoral rainforest Dolans Bay; Grays Point; Royal henneana National Park

Gahnia aspera Sa Clay soils on plateaus and fertile Menai; Royal National Park rainforests Gahnia microstachya Si Dry sandstone slopes Yarrawarrah, Gymea Bay Gahnia subaequiglumis Si Dry and moist slopes Royal National Park; Mill Creek Gastrodia sesamoides Sa Open forest Scattered

Page 4 of 8 ROTAP EPBC TSC Local Species Status Status Status Significan Habitat Location ce Gompholobium pinnatum Si Open forest Gymea Bay; Royal National Park Gonocarpus salsoloides 3Rca Swampy heath, swale swamps in Kurnell, Botany Bay NP sand Grevillea constablei Sa Sheltered sandstone slopes Grays Point; Royal National Park Grevillea diffusa ssp. Si Open forest West Menai diffusa Grevillea longifolia 2RC- Along creek banks Woronora Valley; Mill creek; Heathcote Creek, Loftus Creek Guioa semiglauca Sa Rainforests Burraneer Point; Lilli Pilli Point; Royal National Park Hovea longifolia Si Sheltered Valleys Parts of the Woronora Valley Hibbertia nitida 2RC- Sheltered sandstone gullies. Gymea Bay; Jannali; Holsworthy; Woronora Valley; Still Creek; Sydney Water Catchment Area, Yarrawarrah, Royal National Park. Hibbertia sp. nov. ‘Menai’ Endanger Sheltered sandstone slopes in Bangor Bypass, Dilkara Circuit, Loftus ed woodland and open forest. Jacksonia scopoaria Si Sheltered valleys Only known population in the Shire at Sandy Point. Lagenifera stipitata Sa Moist forests/clay plateaux Menai, Royal National Park Legnephora moorei Sa Rainforests Lilli Pilli Point; Royal National Park Leptospermum Si Exposed ridgetops Engadine, Grays Point RNP parvifolium Leucopogon exolasius 2VC- Vulnerable Vulnerable Sheltered dry sandstone slopes. Heathcote NP; Woronora Valley; Holsworthy Linum marginale Si Clay/ shale plateaus Kirrawee, Menai Liparis reflexa Sa Lithophyte Grays Point; Gymea Bay; Lilli Pilli; Still Creek; Lucas Heights; Royal National Park Livistona australis Sa Coastal rainforests, freshwater Lilli Pilli, Kurnell, Bundeena and Royal wetlands, sheltered bays National Park

Page 5 of 8 ROTAP EPBC TSC Local Species Status Status Status Significan Habitat Location ce Logania pusilla Si clay/ shale plateaus Menai B Lomandra brevis 2RC- Dry sandstone slopes. Scattered, Loftus, Gymea RNP Lomandra fluviatilis 3RCa Rocky creek beds. Heathcote Creek; Woronora River; Royal National Park Lomandra brevis 2RC Dry hillsides open forest Engadine, Royal National Park, Heathcote NP Lomandra micrantha ssp. Si Clay/ shale plateaus Menai tuberculata Maclura cochinchinensis Si Littoral rainforest Towra Point; Royal National Park; Lilli Pilli Point Macrozamia spiralis Si Clay/ shale plateaus/ sheltered Menai, Woronora Valley valley slopes Microtis uniflora Sa Moist protected sites Lucas Hts Mirbelia speciosa Sa Exposed sandstone ridges Royal National Park, Sydney Water Catchment Area, Woronora Valley and Still Creek Melaleuca deanei 3RC- Vulnerable Vulnerable Sandstone and laterite gravel ridges Royal National Park; Heathcote NP; in heath and woodland Sydney Water Catchment Area; Holsworthy; Menai; Lucas Heights, Loftus Monotoca ledifolia 3RC- Heath Heathcote NP; West Menai, Royal National Park; Woronora Hts; Waterfall, Woronora River Myriophyllum gracile var Si Freshwater Wetlands Kurnell linear Nymphoides geminata Si Freshwater ponds Toolooma Lake Heathcote NP, Kurnell Ottelia ovalifolia Sa Freshwater ponds and slow moving Mill Creek creeks Persoonia hirsuta 3KCi Endanger Endanger Exposed sandstone ridges Jannali ; Royal National Park ed ed Peperomia tetraphylla Sa Rainforests Royal National Park; Grays Pt and

Page 6 of 8 ROTAP EPBC TSC Local Species Status Status Status Significan Habitat Location ce Bundeena Platysace stephensonii 3RC- Heath Cronulla; Royal National Park

Polyscias elegans Sa Littoral and Subtropical rainforest Royal National Park and Lilli Pilli Point Prasophyllum elatum Sa Heath and open forest Yarrawarrah; Jannali , Menai Prostanthera densa 3VC- Vulnerable Vulnerable Wet cliffs, heath and woodland Cronulla, Royal National Park Prostanthera saxicola Si Protected sandstone slopes West Menai, Barden Trig Pseudanthus pimeleoides Sa Rocky creek beds / banks Woronora Valley; Royal National Park Pterostylis acuminata Sa Protected sandstone slopes Burraneer, Loftus Pterostylis erecta Sa Protected sandstone slopes Burraneer; Caringbah Pterostylis pedunculata Sa Protected sandstone slopes Lilli Pilli, Loftus Pultenaea aristata 2V Vulnerable Vulnerable Woodland , open forest Upper Woronora Valley, Heathcote NP. Pterostylis sp Endanger Endanger Botany Bay NP ed ed Rapanea howittiana Sa Rainforests Yowie Bay; Lilli Pilli Point; Royal National Park Rulingia dasyphylla Si Clay/ shale plateaus Menai Rulingia hermanniifolia 3RCa Heath Botany Bay NP; Royal National Park Sarcomeliope Si Subtropical and littoral rainforests Lilli Pilli Point; Royal National Park simplicifolia Schizomeria ovata Si Rainforests Gymea Bay; Miranda; Royal National Park Scolopia braunii Si Littoral rainforests Bundeena, Lilli Pilli Pt, Royal Stenocarpus salignus Sa Sub tropical rainforest and sheltered Woronora Valley; Royal National Park creek banks Syzygium oleosum Sa Littoral and subtropical rainforest Grays Pt, Burraneer Pt, Royal National Park Syzygium paniculatum 3ECi Vulnerable Vulnerable Littoral rainforest Towra Point; Kurnell andCronulla Syncarpia glomulifera Sa Turpentine/ Ironbark Forest; Heathcote, Menai, Grays Point, Transition Forest and alluvial flats. Kirrawee, Caringbah, Royal National

Page 7 of 8 ROTAP EPBC TSC Local Species Status Status Status Significan Habitat Location ce Park. Synoum glandulosum Sa Temperate and littoral rainforest Dolans Bay; Cronulla; Burraneer Bay; Burraneer Point; Maianbar; Royal National Park; Botany Bay NP Tetratheca neglecta 2RC Sa Heath, woodland and open forests Barden Ridge; Illawong; Jannali; Loftus; Menai; Woronora Heights; Royal National Park; Heathcote NP; Holsworthy; Sydney Water Catchment Area. Thelymitra atronitida Critically Coastal heath Cape Solander Botany Bay NP. Endanger ed Thelymitra carnea Sa Heath Jannali; Prince Edward Park Thelymitra nuda Si Heath and woodland Lucas Heights Thysanotus virgatus 3RC- Open forest on sandstone Royal National Park Tristania neriifolia Sa Sheltered riparian forest Dents Creek; Woronora Valley; Royal National Park; Heathcote NP; Typhonium eliosurum 3RC- Endanger Rainforest Royal National Park ed Wilsonia backhousei Vulnerable Saltmarsh communities Georges River; Botany Bay NP Wilsonia rotundifolia Endanger Wet cliffs Royal National Park ed Xanthorrhoea concava Si clay/ shale plateaus Menai Xylomelum pyriforme Sa Open forests and old dune forest Kurnell, Bundeena, Heathcote and Royal National Park

Page 8 of 8 Appendix 7 Rare Or Threatened Australian Plant (ROTAP)Coding System

Distribution code: 1. Known only from original specimen collected 2. Geographic range < 100km 3. Geographic range > 100km.

Conservation status: X Presumed extinct. E Endangered. Serious risk of disappearing in the next few decades. V

Vulnerable. Not presently endangered but at risk by incremental losses through changed land use. R

Rare. Represented by a large population in a restricted area or a small population spread over a large area.

Poorly known species, suspected of being in one of the above categories. C Population reserved in national park or reserves

Size- class of all reserved populations: a Adequately reserved (> 1000 plants) i Inadequately reserved (< 1000 plants) t Total population reserved + Natural distribution beyond Australia - Reserved population size not accurately known

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Australian Bureau of Statistics (2006) Census of Population and Housing Time Series Profile T13 Type of Educational Institution Attending (accessed 11/6/08)

Sutherland Shire Council (2001 – 2008) Library and Information Services Performance Reports 2001-2008

Sutherland Shire Council (2008) Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Survey 2007

Place Direction 1 Australian Bureau of Statistics (2006) Census of Population and Housing 2006, 2001, 1996, 1991 (accessed 19/06/08) www.abs.gov.au

NSW Department of Housing (2007) Quarterly Rent and Sales Reports 2003-2007 (accessed 22/06/08) www.housingnsw.gov.au

NSW Government (2007) Metropolitan Strategy: Draft South Subregional Strategy (accessed 14/09/08) www.metrostrategy.nsw.gov.au

Sutherland Shire Council (2008) Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Survey 2007

Place Direction 3 Australian Bureau of Statistics (2006) Australian Social Trends 2006; Pace of Aging: Australia and Japan (accessed online)

Page 4 of 7 http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/[email protected]/7d12b0f6763c78caca257061001cc588/fcd efb9501c34275ca2571b0000f1a9e!OpenDocument

Beachwatch and Harbour Watch (2006/07) State of the Beaches, Sydney Metropolitan Beaches 2006-2007

Department of the Arts, Sport and Recreation (2007) Annual Report 2006-2007

Sutherland Shire Council (2007) Our Shire, Our Future:” Our Guide for Shaping the Shire to 2030

Sutherland Shire Council (2008) Major Council Projects: Wanda Sports Field Proposal (accessed online) http://10.1.150.50/ssc/home.nsf/Web+Pages/DC60BD426F64B4E4CA25742A00808 204?OpenDocument

Sutherland Shire Council (2004) Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Survey 2003

Sutherland Shire Council (2008) Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Survey 2007

Place Direction 5 Australian Bureau of Statistics (2006) Domestic Water and Energy Use, New South Wales, Oct 2006 (accessed online) http://www.abs.gov.au/Ausstats/[email protected]/Latestproducts/4621.1Main %20Features2Oct%202006?opendocumentandtabname=

Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics (2008) Energy Update 2008 (accessed online) abare.gov.au

Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (), Fact Sheet EME Series No. 9 (accessed online) http://www.arpansa.gov.au/pubs/eme/fact9.pdf

Energy Supply Association of Australia (2000-2005) Australia’s Renewable Energy Targets (accessed online) http://www.esaa.com.au/renewable_energy_target.html

GreenPower (2008) National GreenPower Accreditation Program Status Report Quarter 2, 1 April to 30 June 2008 (accessed online) http://www.greenpower.gov.au/admin/file/content13/c6/Quarterly_Report_Q2_2008.p df

Department of Environment and Climate Change (2008) What Causes Stormwater Pollution? (accesses online) http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/stormwater/whatcauses.htm

Department of Energy, Utilities and Sustainability (2006) Sutherland Shire Council; Cronulla - Woolooware Wastewater Reuse Scheme (accessed online) http://www.deus.nsw.gov.au/water/Water%20Savings%20Fund/Water%20Savings

Page 5 of 7 %20Fund%20Projects/Round%202%20-%20Sydney.asp#P127_14988

Department of Energy, Utilities and Sustainability (2008) Renewable Energy (accessed online) http://www.deus.nsw.gov.au/energy/Renewable %20Energy/Renewable%20Energy.asp

New South Wales Government (2008) Metropolitan Strategy – South Subregion (accessed online) http://www.metrostrategy.nsw.gov.au/dev/ViewPage.action? siteNodeId=81andlanguageId=1andcontentId=559

New South Wales Government (2006) Sydney Metropolitan Water Plan 2006

Sutherland Shire Council, Water Action Plan; Milestone 3 of the ICLEI Water Campaign 2004

Sutherland Shire Council (2004) State of the Environment Report 2003/04

Sutherland Shire Council (2007) State of the Environment Report 2006/2007

Sutherland Shire Council (2007) Shape the Shire Community Survey; Survey Results 2006

Sutherland Shire Council (2006) Submission to the General Purpose Standing Committee N.5, Inquiry into a Sustainable Water Supply for Sydney February 2006

Sutherland Shire Council (2006) Development Control Plan 2006

Sydney Catchment Authority (2007) Annual Report 06/07 (accessed online) http://www.sca.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0008/5588/Annual- report_website2007.pdf

Sydney Catchment Authority (2008) Warragamba Dam (accessed online) http://www.sca.nsw.gov.au/dams-and-water/major-sca-dams/warragamba-dam

Sydney Water (2008) Desalination (accessed online) http://www.sydneywater.com.au/EnsuringtheFuture/Desalination/

Sydney Water (2008), “Desalination plant construction 30 per cent complete, and wind power contract signed”(accessed online) http://www.sydneywater.com.au/WhoWeAre/MediaCentre/MediaView.cfm?ID=486

Governance Health Care Complaints Commission (2007) Complaints About Services in South Eastern Sydney Illawarra Health Service Area

Health Care Complaints Commission (2007) Complaints received by Health Care Complaints Commission about services in South East Sydney Illawarra Health Service area

Page 6 of 7 New South Wales Ombudsman (2007) Annual Reports 2004/5 – 2006/7

Sutherland Shire Council (2008) Ombudsman’s reports to Directors 2008

Sutherland Shire Council (2007) Community Satisfaction Reports 2002 -2007

Sutherland Shire Council Report to Directors Customer Satisfaction Report

Sutherland Shire Council (2004-2007) Management Plans 2004 – 2007

Sutherland Shire Council (2006-2007) Annual Report 2006/2007

Sutherland Shire Council (2008) Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Survey 2007

Sutherland Shire Council (2004) Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Survey 2003

Sutherland Shire Council (2001) Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Survey 2000

Sutherland Shire Council (1998) Neighbourhood Interaction and Participation Survey 1997

Page 7 of 7 Chart1

Appendix 11

Stormwater Quality Improvement Device Cleanout

900 1400 841

800 1237 1200

700

1000 600 550

s 800

e 500 r t 446 s e e

696 n M

n c o i

400 T b 365 600 u

C 325 513 300 472 273 252 221 400 352 352 200 296 141 242 122 204 200 100 99 101 91 94 100 82 173 59 63 55 46 41110 44 51 86 24 0 0 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08

Organic (cubic metres) Litter (cubic meters) Sediment (tonnes)

Page 1 Organic (cubicLitter metres)(cubicSediment meters) (tonnes) (Cum) (Cum) (tonnes) 28 4 3 31 42 84 1996-97 59 46 86 62 16 40 79 25 70 1997-98 141 41 110 92 56 179 7 8 293 1998-99 100 63 472 52 29 41 47 15 255 1999-00 99 44 296 55 13 53 47 11 460 2000-01 101 24 513 172 31 96 101 20 1141 2001-02 273 51 1237 69 47 156 22 8 86 2002-03 91 55 242 176 70 262 Density of sediments - 1.8 Tonnes/Cum 45 12 90 2003-04 221 82 352 172 67 90 80 27 114 2004-05 252 94 204 Cum Cum Tonnes

2005-06 325 122 352

2006-07 446 550 173

2007-08 841 365 696 Appendix 12 Nature Direction 4

Triggers and volumes for environmental flows in the Woronora River

Flow Condition Environmental Flow requirement When inflows are less Release full inflow 1 than 5 Megalitres per day (Ml/day)1 When inflows are Release 5 Ml/day plus 2 between 5 & 30 Ml/day 50% of the remaining flow When flows are greater Vary the release at least 3 than 30 Ml/day (when weekly between 10 dam not spilling) Ml/day and 50 Ml/day, so that the average annual flow is 18 Ml/day Once a year (July – Release 800 Ml/day for 3 4 June), at the time of the days (unless the spill first spill after October 1, exceeds this amount, in or by February 1 at the which case no such latest release is required in that year) If the storage is drawn Environmental flow 5 down to a pre- releases may be determined level reduced or not required Source: ‘The Current Environmental Flow Regime Downstream of Woronora Dam’ by the Independent Expert Panel on River Flows for the Hawkesbury-Nepean, Shoalhaven and Woronora Catchments (2003).

The majority of groundwater in the Shire is limited to the unconsolidated sediment of the Botany Sands formation that is located along the Kurnell Peninsula. There are currently approximately 178 active groundwater extraction licences in Sutherland Shire.

1 1 Megalitre (Ml) = 1 000 000 litres Appendix 13

Sutherland Albert Delards Res / Suth Sum of Bags 15 Sum of Extra kgs 30 Sum of Total Kilograms 255 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq Sum of Planting Nos Sum of Crew Size 10 Sum of Cars Removed Azalea Walk / Sutherland Sum of Bags 15 Sum of Extra kgs Sum of Total Kilograms 225 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq 300 Sum of Planting Nos 0 Sum of Crew Size 6 Sum of Cars Removed Barden Ridge Sportsfield / Sutherland Sum of Bags Sum of Extra kgs Sum of Total Kilograms 0 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq Sum of Planting Nos 500 Sum of Crew Size 10 Sum of Cars Removed Bonna Point / Suth Sum of Bags Sum of Extra kgs Sum of Total Kilograms 0 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq 400 Sum of Planting Nos 180 Sum of Crew Size 20 Sum of Cars Removed Burnum Burnum Res /Suth Sum of Bags 25 Sum of Extra kgs 500 Sum of Total Kilograms 875 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq 270 Sum of Planting Nos 100 Sum of Crew Size 41 Sum of Cars Removed Sum of Bags Sum of Extra kgs 1300 Sum of Total Kilograms 1300 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq Sum of Planting Nos Sum of Crew Size 2 Sum of Cars Removed Cooks Rd / Suth Sum of Bags Sum of Extra kgs 300 Sum of Total Kilograms 300 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq Sum of Planting Nos 260 Sum of Crew Size 11 Sum of Cars Removed Sum of Bags 33 Sum of Extra kgs 160 Sum of Total Kilograms 655 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq Sum of Planting Nos Sum of Crew Size 10 Sum of Cars Removed Dolton house/suth Sum of Bags 4 Sum of Extra kgs Sum of Total Kilograms 60 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq 60 Sum of Planting Nos Sum of Crew Size 10 Sum of Cars Removed Gwawley Cr / Suth Sum of Bags 188 Sum of Extra kgs 995 Sum of Total Kilograms 3815 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq Sum of Planting Nos Sum of Crew Size 43 Sum of Cars Removed Gwawley Park / Suth Sum of Bags 72 Sum of Extra kgs 350 Sum of Total Kilograms 1430 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq Sum of Planting Nos Sum of Crew Size 40 Sum of Cars Removed Kurnell Forest / Suth Sum of Bags Sum of Extra kgs Sum of Total Kilograms 0 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq Sum of Planting Nos Sum of Crew Size 5 Sum of Cars Removed Sum of Bags Sum of Extra kgs Sum of Total Kilograms 0 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq Sum of Planting Nos 170 Sum of Crew Size 7 Sum of Cars Removed Kurnell / Suth Sum of Bags 99 Sum of Extra kgs 315 Sum of Total Kilograms 1800 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq Sum of Planting Nos Sum of Crew Size 40 Sum of Cars Removed Marton Park / Suth Sum of Bags Sum of Extra kgs Sum of Total Kilograms 0 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq 12 Sum of Planting Nos Sum of Crew Size 11 Sum of Cars Removed Miranda Park / Suth Sum of Bags 8 Sum of Extra kgs 33 Sum of Total Kilograms 153 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq 15 Sum of Planting Nos Sum of Crew Size 10 Sum of Cars Removed Sum of Bags Sum of Extra kgs Sum of Total Kilograms 0 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq 16 Sum of Planting Nos Sum of Crew Size 10 Sum of Cars Removed Prince Edward Park Rd / Sutherland Sum of Bags 23 Sum of Extra kgs 35 Sum of Total Kilograms 380 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq 14 Sum of Planting Nos Sum of Crew Size 11 Sum of Cars Removed Sylvania Oval / Suth Sum of Bags 26 Sum of Extra kgs 500 Sum of Total Kilograms 890 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq 73 Sum of Planting Nos Sum of Crew Size 31 Sum of Cars Removed Wanda Sand Dunes / Suth Sum of Bags Sum of Extra kgs Sum of Total Kilograms 0 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq Sum of Planting Nos 8 Sum of Crew Size 6 Sum of Cars Removed Sum of Bags 166 Sum of Extra kgs Sum of Total Kilograms 2490 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq 739 Sum of Planting Nos 1500 Sum of Crew Size 83 Sum of Cars Removed Sum of Bags 2 Sum of Extra kgs Sum of Total Kilograms 30 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq 20 Sum of Planting Nos 400 Sum of Crew Size 23 Sum of Cars Removed Sum of Bags 1 Sum of Extra kgs Sum of Total Kilograms 15 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq 300 Sum of Planting Nos 2125 Sum of Crew Size 32 Sum of Cars Removed Sum of Bags 51 Sum of Extra kgs Sum of Total Kilograms 765 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq 260 Sum of Planting Nos 0 Sum of Crew Size 8 Sum of Cars Removed Sum of Bags Sum of Extra kgs Sum of Total Kilograms 0 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq Sum of Planting Nos Sum of Crew Size 10 Sum of Cars Removed Woolooware Bay / Suth Sum of Bags 6 Sum of Extra kgs 10 Sum of Total Kilograms 100 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq Sum of Planting Nos Sum of Crew Size 11 Sum of Cars Removed Sandy Point Ridge / Suth Sum of Bags 3 Sum of Extra kgs Sum of Total Kilograms 45 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq Sum of Planting Nos 420 Sum of Crew Size 6 Sum of Cars Removed Sum of Bags 4 Sum of Extra kgs Sum of Total Kilograms 60 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq Sum of Planting Nos 1070 Sum of Crew Size 26 Sum of Cars Removed Sum of Bags 2 Sum of Extra kgs Sum of Total Kilograms 30 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq Sum of Planting Nos Sum of Crew Size 6 Sum of Cars Removed Sandy Point Flats / Suth Sum of Bags 37 Sum of Extra kgs 560 Sum of Total Kilograms 1115 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq 50 Sum of Planting Nos 1900 Sum of Crew Size 35 Sum of Cars Removed Sum of Bags 151 Sum of Extra kgs 10 Sum of Total Kilograms 2275 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq Sum of Planting Nos 300 Sum of Crew Size 9 Sum of Cars Removed Towra Bird Sanctuary / Suth Sum of Bags 65 Sum of Extra kgs Sum of Total Kilograms 975 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq 575 Sum of Planting Nos 830 Sum of Crew Size 75 Sum of Cars Removed Sum of Bags 15 Sum of Extra kgs Sum of Total Kilograms 225 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq 950 Sum of Planting Nos 1200 Sum of Crew Size 31 Sum of Cars Removed Sum of Bags Sum of Extra kgs Sum of Total Kilograms 0 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq Sum of Planting Nos Sum of Crew Size 5 Sum of Cars Removed Sum of Bags 8 Sum of Extra kgs Sum of Total Kilograms 120 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq 100 Sum of Planting Nos Sum of Crew Size 6 Sum of Cars Removed Sum of Bags 39 Sum of Extra kgs Sum of Total Kilograms 585 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq 63 Sum of Planting Nos 200 Sum of Crew Size 29 Sum of Cars Removed Silverwater Nursery Sum of Bags Sum of Extra kgs Sum of Total Kilograms 0 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq Sum of Planting Nos Sum of Crew Size 42 Sum of Cars Removed Sum of Bags Sum of Extra kgs Sum of Total Kilograms 0 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq Sum of Planting Nos Sum of Crew Size 75 Sum of Cars Removed Alfords Point Sum of Bags 30 Sum of Extra kgs 600 Sum of Total Kilograms Sum of Area Weeded m/sq Sum of Planting Nos Sum of Crew Size 10 Sum of Cars Removed Swallow Rock / Suth Sum of Bags 16 Sum of Extra kgs 700 Sum of Total Kilograms 940 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq 15 Sum of Planting Nos Sum of Crew Size 11 Sum of Cars Removed Lakewood City Res / Suth Sum of Bags 5 Sum of Extra kgs Sum of Total Kilograms 75 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq Sum of Planting Nos Sum of Crew Size 10 Sum of Cars Removed Resolution Dr / Suth Sum of Bags 16 Sum of Extra kgs 120 Sum of Total Kilograms 360 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq Sum of Planting Nos Sum of Crew Size 10 Sum of Cars Removed Thomson Bay Res / Suth Sum of Bags 22 Sum of Extra kgs 150 Sum of Total Kilograms 480 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq Sum of Planting Nos Sum of Crew Size 10 Sum of Cars Removed Towra Beach / Suth Sum of Bags 5 Sum of Extra kgs Sum of Total Kilograms 75 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq Sum of Planting Nos Sum of Crew Size 3 Sum of Cars Removed Helena St Kirrawee Sum of Bags 25 Sum of Extra kgs Sum of Total Kilograms 375 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq 35 Sum of Planting Nos Sum of Crew Size 11 Sum of Cars Removed Prince Edward Park Rd / Suth Sum of Bags Sum of Extra kgs Sum of Total Kilograms 0 Sum of Area Weeded m/sq 35 Sum of Planting Nos Sum of Crew Size 11 Sum of Cars Removed Sutherland Sum of Bags 1177 Sutherland Sum of Extra kgs 7373 Sutherland Sum of Total Kilograms 23,173 Sutherland Sum of Area Weeded m/sq 4302 Sutherland Sum of Planting Nos 11,163 Sutherland Sum of Crew Size 912 Sutherland Sum of Cars Removed 2007/2008 State of the Environment Report Regulation and Enforcement Unit

Environmental Statistics including; Illegal dumping, clearing of bushland, vermin, and environmental incidents.

Council’s Regulation & Enforcement Officers issued the following Notices, in relation to a variety of environmental Issues that occurred within the Sutherland Shire.

Council Officers attended 1598 Environmental (CRMS) Customer Request Management System Reports.

These issues vary from overgrown vegetation, harbourage of vermin, storage of material, clearing of bushland and illegal waste transportation offences.

Notice of proposed ‘Order’ Issued under the Local 83 Government Act, 1993 Notice of proposed ‘Order’ Complied 40

‘Orders’ Issued 36 ‘Orders’ Complied (with) 25 (3 proceeding to court ) (8 still active or work being undertaken)

Clean Up Notices Issued under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act, 1997 13 Clean Up Notices Complied 12 1 still being investigated Prevention Notices Issued 2 1 still being investigated There were 646 Abandoned Vehicles reported to Council with 64 Penalty Notices issued for ‘Abandoning a motor vehicle in a public place’.

The entire process of abandoned vehicles is now undertaken by the Regulation and Enforcement Unit, from investigation to removal.

Number of Infringement notices and purpose (categorised ie: littering, waste)

Infringement Title Infringement Amount Infringement Total Deposit Litter $200 7

Deposit Litter $400 0 (Corporation) Deposit Litter from Vehicle $200 53 (individual) Deposit Litter from Vehicle $400 6 (corporation)

Unlawful Transportation of $750 15 Waste (illegal dumping)

Unlawful Transportation of $1500 1 Waste (illegal dumping – Corporation) Pollute Waters $750 0

Pollute Waters $1500 1 (Corporation) Permit land to be used as $1500 0 a waste facility Fail to comply with requirement under $500 6 Chapter 7 of Act – individual Fail to comply with requirement under $1000 1 Chapter 7 of Act – corporationl Fail to Sufficiently Cover $500 49 Load (uncovered load) Fail to comply with Clean $750 0 Up Notice Abandon Motor Vehicle $220 64 Breach Water Restriction $220 1 Officers from the Regulation and Enforcement Unit have undertaken a number of targeted operations regarding illegal rubbish dumping particularly in the Barden Ridge / Lucas Heights and Royal National Parks area. This has resulted in offenders being apprehended on two separate occasions in the act of dumping waste and prosecution proceedings being commenced on fourteen (14) other instances for illegal dumping. In all instances penalty notices and clean up notices were issued to the offenders.

New South Wales Police and officers from the Regulation and Enforcement Unit have also undertaken a number pro-active operations regarding illegal trail bike riding along fire trails and other areas throughout the shire. This has resulted in numerous motor bikes being impounded and has allowed sensitive area’s to regenerate.

Sutherland Shire Council after obtaining a grant from the Department of Environment and Climate Change for the ‘Dumping is Dumb’ Campaign, has continued this campaign throughout the year. This is a joint initiative between REU and Waste Services to run an education / enforcement campaign targeting dumping of waste outside mutli-unit dwellings.