Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
The arts installation by Elvis Richardson entitled: Televisual 2015 featured at Realm during the year
Welcome to the Maroondah City Annual Report 2015/16
The Annual Report provides a record of the achievements, performance and financial management of Maroondah City Council for the 2015/16 financial year in delivering a vast range of services to its community.
Council is committed to transparent reporting and accountability to the community. This Annual Report is a key reporting tool used to advise the Maroondah community of Council’s performance during the financial year against the Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 3: 2015/16) and Annual Budget 2015/16.
The Local Government Act 1989 states that all Victorian Councils must prepare an annual financial year report and submit it to the Minister for Local Government by 30 September each year. Requirements include a report of Council’s operations, audited standard statements, audited financial statements and report on the performance statement during the financial year.
The Audit and Risk Advisory Committee reviewed these financial statements at its meeting on 17 August 2016, and Council endorsed the financial report in principle at the Council meeting on 22 August 2016. The Standard and Performance Statements were certified by the Principal Accounting Officer (Manager Finance and Governance), the Chief Executive Officer and two nominated Councillors. The Victorian Auditor General’s office has certified the Performance Statement and the Financial Report including the Standard Statements.
How to use this Annual Report The 2015/16 Annual Report is divided into eight sections:
Our Provides reflections from the Mayor and CEO, and outlines key capital 1 Highlights works and events highlights from 2015/16. Profiles the City of Maroondah, outlines our vision and details Council’s 2 Our City integrated planning framework. 3 Our Council Provides details of our Councillors, wards and the Council organisation. Identifies 2015/16 achievements relating to Council’s eight outcome areas outlined in the Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 3: 2015/16). Each outcome Our 4 area includes information on achievements, challenges, future directions, Performance interesting facts and statistics, as well as Council’s performance against the commitments identified in the Council Plan 2013-2017. Corporate Reports on governance procedures, conflict of interest, and risk 5 Governance management. Provides information linked to statutory requirements including Statutory information on privacy, protected disclosure, Best Value reporting, the 6 Information Victorian Local Government performance indicators and the Local Government Performance Reporting Framework. Financial Includes detailed financial statements which fulfill Council’s reporting 7 Report requirements. 8 Glossary Commonly used terms and acronyms.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 3
Table of Contents
Welcome to the 2015/16 Annual Report 3 Describes the purpose and context of the Annual Report 2015/16.
Our highlights 5 Provides reflections from the CEO and Mayor, and outlines key capital works and events highlights from 2015/16 identifies key highlights from the 2015/16.
Our City 14 Provides information about the City of Maroondah including its location, history, residents, economy and environment.
Our Vision 18 Outlines the Maroondah 2040 Community Vision preferred outcomes, our mission statement and values.
Our Council 25 Highlights the role of Council, the elected Councillors, Council Wards, Council’s Organisational Structure and how Council plans for the future.
Our Performance 36 Identifies 2015/16 achievements relating to Council’s eight outcome areas outlined in the Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 3: 2015/16). Each outcome area includes information on achievements, challenges, future directions, interesting facts and statistics, as well as Council’s performance against the priority actions and strategic indicators identified in the Council Plan 2013-2017.
Corporate Governance 109 Reports on governance procedures, conflict of interest, and risk management
Statutory Information 126 Includes statutory information on privacy, protected disclosure, Best Value reporting and the Local Government Performance Reporting Framework.
Financial Report 156 Includes detailed financial statements which fulfill Council’s reporting requirements.
Glossary 223 Commonly used terms and acronyms.
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Our Highlights Message from the Mayor and Chief Executive Officer We are pleased to present the 2015/16 Maroondah City Council Annual Report to the Maroondah community and to the Minister for Local Government.
From the Mayor, Cr Natalie Thomas
This past year has seen the completion of some of the largest infrastructure investment by Council in its history, providing great new facilities for the Maroondah community and creating a vibrant and attractive City.
In August the $52.2 million Aquanation was formally opened, followed by an open invitation to the Maroondah community to discover all that this great aquatic and leisure centre offers across a weekend of celebrations.
And in October we officially opened the new Ringwood Town Square and Realm, Council’s new library, learning and cultural centre; the Centre for Knowledge and Innovation; and home to Council’s BizHub facility. Realm was privileged to host the Prime Minister in November, who commented that Realm was “the best he’s ever seen”.
The new Ringwood station and bus interchange opened for business in January. The $66 million Victorian Government project links seamlessly with the new Ringwood Town Square and provides a modern, accessible transport hub for the Ringwood city centre. Throughout the project, Council successfully advocated for the implementation of good design principles and the inclusion of accessible infrastructure such as lifts, escalators, ramps and stairs.
And Maroondah now boasts one of Australia’s top 10 largest retail destinations with the formal opening of Eastland in May. The $700 million redevelopment has not only seen an increase in size, but also the range of offerings, with new retail and dining options creating local jobs and helping to build a strong local economy.
Council’s 2015/16 Budget and Long Term Financial Strategy continued to be based on sound financial management as well as an awareness and appreciation of the rising cost of living facing ratepayers. As an organisation we understand that it is vital we ensure we are providing high quality facilities and services to our community in the most cost-efficient and sustainable way.
Despite significant external factors, the city-wide rates and charges increase was maintained at 3.9 per cent, one of the lowest in metropolitan Melbourne, and in fact one of the lowest across the State. This was achieved with no new borrowings, strong capital expenditure and renewal of existing assets, all while maintaining existing service levels. The annual additional 2.5 per cent infrastructure levy on rates was also removed.
The Budget outlined the provision of financial resources and detailed how these resources would be applied to meet the twenty two priority actions identified in the Council Plan 2013 2017. These actions will contribute to the achievement of the four-year Council Plan key directions and ultimately the preferred outcome outlined in the Maroondah 2040 Community Vision – Our future together.
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From the CEO, Mr Steve Kozlowski
Council’s attention continues to be firmly focused on our Long Term Financial Strategy (LTFS) as we work to meet our community needs in an increasingly challenging financial environment.
The LTFS outlines Council’s projected financial position for the next ten years and provides a guide to the community, Council and management in their analysis of options and decision making about the future directions and operations of Council.
The LTFS demonstrates our long term financial sustainability based on prudent financial management and continued work to improve efficiencies and reduce costs. This means we can continue to invest in community facilities and services and not take on new debt while ensuring that Council operates within the rate cap regime introduced by the State Government this year.
I am very proud of the work that has been achieved by the organisation, in partnership with the Councillors and the community. The major achievements of the past year have been highlighted throughout this report and we commend it as a record of the breadth of what has been accomplished to ensure our City continues to be a great place to live, work, play and visit.
Some of the key highlights are presented below.
Key highlights
Aquanation Maroondah’s new state of the art aquatic and leisure centre opened its doors to the community in August 2015. The $52.2 million centre features a 66.5 metre pool and 10 metre diving tower, a warm water pool, a dedicated learn to swim pool, large toddler and children’s leisure play pool, a large gym with three separate group fitness rooms, child care facilities and a café. It also has two indoor waterslides which can be used all year round, and dry diving facilities unique in Australia, which allow for more effective training routines, and provide divers, from beginner to elite, the ability to perfect their technique in a more controlled environment.
Public artwork features prominently in Aquanation with four pieces designed and created by Anna Minardo including the unique glass art on the lift wall and cafe wall.
Aquanation hosted the 2015 Australian Domestic Grand Prix and Oceania Championships in December and hosted the 2016 Australian Open Diving Championships in May 2016, incorporating the Nomination Trials for the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.
The project was supported by funding grants from the Australian Government and the Victorian Government, along with sponsorship from Bendigo Bank and EastLink.
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Ringwood Metropolitan Activities Centre including Realm / Town Square / Eastland / Ringwood Station Realm, Council’s new library, cultural, knowledge and innovation centre commenced operations on 29 October 2015. The $24 million state-of-the-art facility incorporates a library with areas to engage children and young people; a comprehensive Council service centre; ArtSpace; the Centre for Regional Knowledge and Innovation; BizHub business resource centre and co- working space; a café; reading spaces; and a local history display. In late 2015, major photographic work was installed at each of the three lift foyers at Realm. The installation, by award-winning artist James Voller, shows residential architecture from different time periods, including a ‘lounge room’ setting in the goods lift.
Ringwood Town Square officially opened in October 2015 after many years of planning, negotiation and development work between Council, QIC and the Victorian Government. As the cornerstone of the new Eastland redevelopment, Ringwood Town Square provides access to Realm, Ringwood Station and bus interchange, and a range of restaurants and boutique retail stores. Council has worked in partnership with Eastland to deliver a range of community and civic activations in the Ringwood Town Square precinct, including markets, live music performances, festivals and civic events.
The $700 million redevelopment of Eastland opened in May 2016 with 180 new stores, and connecting the new retail precinct with the existing shopping centre. The redevelopment by Queensland Investment Corporation (QIC), has expanded the Eastland shopping centre by more than 131,000 square metres placing it in the top 10 of Australian shopping centres by size. Council has worked closely with QIC and the Victorian Government throughout the redevelopment to ensure a seamless link between the shopping centre, the new Town Square, Realm and the new Ringwood Station and Bus Interchange. The Victorian Government’s $66 million upgrade of Ringwood Station and Bus Interchange was officially opened in February 2016 with a community celebration. The vibrant new station precinct helps to ensure that Ringwood is an easily accessible destination for regional business, commercial, retail, social and cultural activities. Throughout the project, Council successfully advocated for the implementation of good design principles and the inclusion of accessible infrastructure such as lifts, escalators, ramps and stairs. As part of the Ringwood Station and Bus Interchange redevelopment, an eye-catching mural was installed on the carpark ramp off Station Street on the south side of the station. Entitled ‘Out of the Wood’, the public art project is the result of collaboration between artist Carla Gottgens and participants in the EACH ArtScape program, which supports young people dealing with a range of mental health issues. Investment in the Ringwood MAC continued to grow - as at 30 June 2016, there are currently 47 completed, 2 under construction and 26 permit approved development projects in the Ringwood MAC representing 148,527sqm of floorspace and 1392 residential dwellings with a total value of $1,212.93 million. Council is also continuing to work with the Metropolitan Planning Authority on the refresh of the Ringwood MAC Structure Plan with community engagement undertaken in May and June 2016.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 7 Kevin Pratt Pavilion The Kevin Pratt Pavilion at Mullum Mullum Reserve was officially re-opened in February 2016, following a $2.8 million dollar redevelopment and refurbishment. The original pavilion was constructed in 1968 and the facilities were increasingly unable to meet user needs. Two large multipurpose rooms have been added, enabling clubs to hold social functions and build their membership base. The rooms are also used by University of the Third Age Ringwood (U3A) for a range of activities. The new pavilion provides enhanced facilities for Norwood Sporting Club, which includes the Norwood Football and Cricket clubs as well as the Junior Football Club, Netball Club and Social Golf Club. Council contributed $1.5 million to the project, which was also supported by the Federal and Victorian governments, Norwood Sporting Club and AFL Victoria.
Parkwood and historic land swap Refurbishment of the former Parkwood Secondary College was completed early in the 2015/16 financial year. Parkwood is now home to North Ringwood Community House, Ringwood Men’s Shed, Maroondah Toy Library, Penumbra Centre, Ringwood and District Historical Society and Ringwood U3A.
During the financial year, Council also secured a land swap arrangement with the Victorian Government which will see Council take possession of approximately 35,000sqm of land, in two parcels, in exchange for an 8,000sqm piece of Council land adjacent to the Melba College which will go to assisting with the upgrade of the Melba College site. The first parcel of land which Council will take ownership of is approximately 15,000sqm at Parkwood, which includes the buildings and carparking. As well as securing a home for the six community groups it will also result in the cancellation of Council’s current lease agreement at Parkwood resulting in ongoing financial savings.
The second parcel of land that will be given to Council is approximately 20,000sqm of the former Croydon South Primary School site. Council has advocated for some time to the Victorian Government to seek to have part of the former Croydon South Primary School site made available for community use. Council will now work with the community to determine how this land should be used.
Housing Strategy Over the past two years, Council has developed a new housing strategy to establish future policy directions and guide future residential development. The process of developing this Strategy involved developing a holistic body of background research along with considerable engagement with the community and key stakeholders. The Strategy sets out a vision for housing in Maroondah, addresses issues facing the municipality and sets out key directions and priority actions to address these challenges. It is anticipated that additional priority actions and projects may also be identified over time which will support this vision and the changing needs of the Maroondah community. The Strategy was formally adopted by Council in June 2016. A planning scheme amendment is now being prepared to introduce the Strategy into the Maroondah Planning Scheme.
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Active Healthy & Ageing Initiative Council launched the Active & Healthy Ageing Initiative in October 2015 as Council’s and the community’s blueprint for creating an age- friendly Maroondah. The initiative is a partnership between Council and the community to introduce age-friendly projects and services that support an active and healthy population. The aim is to maintain and increase wellbeing throughout life as we work towards becoming a more Age Friendly City. The Initiative has been endorsed by COTA Victoria and was developed following extensive community consultation and ongoing engagement. Maroondah is the first Council in Victoria to have had its membership to the WHO Global Network of Age-friendly Cities & Communities renewed and Council has also signed the Victorian Age- friendly Declaration.
New plan to enhance the lives of children and families In August 2015, Council adopted the Maroondah Children’s Plan 2015 2019. The Plan builds on previous Early Years Plans and details how Council will work to enhance the lives of children aged 0 to 12 and their families living in the municipality. In particular, the Plan highlights the need for places and spaces to enhance social connections. This includes connecting families and services; connecting children with each other; and cross cultural and intergenerational connections. The Plan was developed involving considerable community consultation into the key care, health, education and wellbeing needs and issues currently affecting children and their families.
Advocacy for Federal election Council conducted a successful advocacy campaign in the lead up to the 2016 Federal election. Commencing in October 2015 key projects were identified and detailed information was provided to the major candidates in the three electorates, Casey, Deakin and Menzies. With the election of the Federal Coalition in July 2016, residents can look forward to more than $40 million in Federal funding towards significant roads, community and sporting projects in Maroondah.
Other key highlights
Wyreena Playspace opens Wyreena Community Arts Centre has been further enhanced with the establishment of a new playspace in April 2016. In designing the playspace, Council engaged with Grade 2 students at Ruskin Park Primary School; undertook a resident household survey; and held community consultation events. The playspace incorporates traditional play equipment with exploratory and interactive art elements and art pieces, which encourage children to explore art, movement, sound and touch while they play. New paths have been built around the area along with additional planting.
New Maroondah Sustainability Strategy 2016-2020 A new Maroondah Sustainability Strategy was endorsed in 2015/16 aimed at progressing towards the clean, green and sustainable vision in Maroondah 2040: Our future together. Its central aspiration is to lay solid foundations for progress towards that Vision by aligning Council’s culture over the next four years to one where sustainability is integral to the organisation’s business. Development of the Strategy involved extensive background research along with engagement with the community and a range of stakeholder groups, in particular, the Maroondah Environment Advisory Committee.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 9 Ringwood East pavilion construction starts Council has commenced construction of a new multipurpose pavilion at East Ringwood Reserve which will provide a new home for the Chin Community Victoria, whilst also providing new facilities for local sporting clubs. Features of the new pavilion will include a multipurpose community room, offices, classroom, meeting room, kitchen, social space and toilets on the upper level. In addition, the lower level will feature change rooms, umpires facilities, a trainers/first aid room, a gym and store rooms. The pavilion is scheduled for completion in early 2017.
Work commences on a new multipurpose pavilion at Proclamation Park Construction of a new athletics pavilion and track upgrade at Proclamation Park in Ringwood has commenced. Upon completion, the new $1.7 million multipurpose pavilion will include a multi-purpose room; change rooms and toilets; gym; and a kitchen. Construction is scheduled for completion by September 2016.The track replacement, coupled with the pavilion upgrade project, will provide Maroondah with a first class regional athletics facility for the whole community to use.
Start the Conversation Project promotes inclusion among local youth Council delivered an award winning Start the Conversation Project during 2015/16 aimed at supporting the inclusion of LGBTI young people in Maroondah. Over 500 local young people were engaged during the program in education and consultation sessions. The project was guided by a team of twelve young people and funded through a State Government Healthy Equal Youth Grant. The initiative won the VLGA and Youth Affairs Council of Victoria’s READYS (Recognising Excellence Award for the Delivery of Youth Services).
Engage the community in the design of a new Croydon Town Square Preliminary community engagement commenced for the design of a new Croydon Town Square. In February 2016, a place audit was undertaken to inform design principles around the future Town Square in Croydon. Numerous on site observations and conversations were conducted to capture a comprehensive understanding of how key stakeholders and the general community currently use and would like to use the area proposed for the new town square.
Internationally renowned Darnell Collection comes to Maroondah Maroondah Art Gallery showcased the Garden Party 1890-1950 exhibition incorporating historic fashion from the internationally renowned Darnell Collection. The exhibition, curated by Charlotte Smith, showcased the fashion that women wore to garden parties over the period. Events held during the exhibition included a millinery class, embroidery workshops, a gardening class, a Vintage Garden Party and the Garden Party Music Café at Wyreena Community Arts Centre.
Accelerate the footpath construction improvement program During 2015/16, Council accelerated its footpath construction program with an additional budget allocation. Programmed works commenced in July 2015 and will continue until June 2017. Works were completed along sections of Mt Dandenong Road, Warrien Road, Bayswater Road, Kalinda Road, Notlen Street and Market Street.
Alcohol conference hosted at Karralyka Council hosted the first Your Shout! Action on Alcohol Conference at Karralyka in July 2015, which was attended by well over 100 people. The conference was organised by the Eastern Metropolitan Region Action on Alcohol Flagship Group, which is made up of representatives from local community health agencies and seven Councils in the Eastern Region. The aim of the Conference was to bring together authorities, community agencies and other key stakeholders in the Region to learn from experts and each other.
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Council maintains high performance in planning turnaround timeframes In 2015/16, Maroondah maintained its status as one of the top performing Metropolitan Councils. Some 86% of all planning applications were delivered within 60 statutory days. This is substantially above the metropolitan average of 64% of decisions delivered within 60 statutory days. Council also maintained its target of ensuring that planning permit applications at hand did not generally rise above 250 live applications.
New design guidelines for engineering developments In June 2016, Council finalised development of Engineering Development Design Guidelines aimed at providing direction to developers and engineering consultants when preparing paving and drainage plans for multi dwelling developments and subdivisions to meet town planning permit conditions. It is intended that the guidelines will result in improvements in the quality of plans submitted; a higher rate of first time approval of plans submitted; and better quality design outcomes for the Maroondah community.
Croydon Connects The Croydon Connects project was completed in 2015/16 with the project creating better connections through the heart of Croydon – from Croydon Station through Main Street and down San Carlos Walk to Croydon Park. Street lighting and wayfinding signage along the route was upgraded and urban design elements such as new garden beds and bench seating, feature lighting and concrete pavement added to San Carlos Walk. The Croydon Connects project was made possible through a $250,000 grant from the Department of Justice Public Safety Infrastructure Fund and $200,000 in Council funding.
Planning for a new dog park in Maroondah In response to community feedback, Council investigated sites for the development of new dog parks in Maroondah during 2015/16. During the year, community members were also encouraged to have their say about what elements they would like to see included in a dog park. In June 2016, Councillors approved the construction of two fenced dog parks in Maroondah - one at Eastfield Park in Croydon as a regional facility, and a second smaller, more localised facility, at Quambee Reserve in Ringwood North.
Greenwood Park Kindergarten redeveloped The 70-year-old Greenwood Park Kindergarten was redeveloped in 2015/16 to respond to the significant population growth Ringwood has seen, and is expected to experience in the years to come. Opened in April 2016, the $540,000 redevelopment was funded by $338,950 from the Victorian Government Early Learning Facility Upgrade Grant, a Council contribution of $150,000 and a Greenwood Kindergarten Committee contribution of $50,000.
New Community Engagement Policy adopted In August 2015, Council adopted a new Community Engagement Policy. The Policy is a formal expression of Council’s commitment to engaging the community through the use of appropriate, effective and inclusive practices. It also seeks to improve Council’s engagement processes through encouraging a consistent approach. Implementation of this Policy will be supported by a toolkit.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 11 Council awards and recognition
Maroondah City Council is proud to be recognised for its commitment to leadership and service excellence. A selection of the honours received during 2015/16 is highlighted below:
LGPro Awards for Excellence - Young Achiever Award - Winner Youth Program Worker Mel Jeffery was recognised with the LGPro Young Achiever Award for her passion, skill and commitment to social justice. In her role with Council, Mel has delivered outstanding projects for young people in Maroondah from a range of backgrounds and has served on the Youth Affairs Council of Victoria's Youth Reference Group, and as the National Youth Week Young Member for Victoria.
LGPro Awards for Excellence - Community Assets and Infrastructure Initiative Award for projects under $1.5million - Winner The Parkwood Community Hub was awarded the Community Assets and Infrastructure Initiative Award for projects under $1.5million. Parkwood now houses and connects six community groups, which provide important services to residents from birth to retirement.
LGPro Awards for Excellence - Community Assets and Infrastructure Initiative Award for projects over $1.5million - Finalist Aquanation was named as a Finalist in the Community Assets and Infrastructure Initiative Award for projects over $1.5million.
Total Facilities Australian Conference – Australia’s Best Bathroom Facility - Winner The Changing Places facility at Ringwood Lake Park was named Australia’s Best Bathroom Facility at the Total Facilities Australian Conference held in Melbourne during April 2016. The Award seeks to identify and acknowledge the best bathroom facility that goes above and beyond in the design or cleanliness stakes across a range of environments, including offices, shopping centre, sports stadiums and hotels.
READYS Awards – Winner Council’s Youth Services team took out the top prize at the READYS awards for their Start the Conversation program, which aims to address discrimination based on sexuality and gender identity. Start the Conversation supports the civil, social and economic inclusion and participation of SSASGD young people within Maroondah via real, grass roots change.
LGPro Aged and Disability Services Awards - Outstanding Individual Contribution - Winner Jack Mulholland, Council’s MetroAccess Officer, won the 2015 Outstanding Individual Contribution category at the LGPro Aged and Disability Services Awards. Jack has been recognised for making a real and significant difference to the lives of people with a disability within Maroondah and beyond. He is the driving force behind many guides, publications, networks and forums, in particular the Stroke A Chord Choir for people with aphasia and the Changing Places accessible restrooms for people with severe disabilities and their carers.
United Nations Association of Australia World Environment Day Awards 2016 The Eastern Alliance for Greenhouse Action (EAGA) EAGA was announced as the winner of the 2016 United Nations Association of Australia World Environment Day Award for the Biodiversity Monitoring on Melbourne’s East project (Local Government Category). The project involved the development and trial of a framework for monitoring indicators of biodiversity health in the context of a changing climate.
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Honorary Freeman of the City In April 2016, Council resolved to bestow two deserving citizens with the prestigious title of Honorary Freeman of the City. The honour of Freeman of the City has become a distinction by which a Council officially recognises a resident who has made an outstanding long term contribution to the local community.
Ms Anne Hubbard, the 2014 Maroondah Citizen of the Year, has dedicated many years to helping young people and supporting local groups including Biala Ringwood, which provides respite care for the parents of young children with special needs. She is also a life member of Ringwood Uniting Church Tennis Club and the Eastern Region Lawn Tennis Association.
Mr Brian Coopersmith has been President of Maroondah Sporting Club since 1982. He is a life member of East Ringwood Football Club and Eastern Football League, as well as being a major supporter and fundraiser for Maroondah Hospital and Eastern Health Foundation. In 2010, he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the Queen’s Birthday Honours.
Maroondah 2016 Australia Day awards Citizen of the Year was awarded to Ian Ware, for his volunteer role with Ringwood Biala, Ringwood Bowls Club and Maroondah Citizen’s Advice Bureau. Ian was nominated for his 29 years of dedication to Biala, a respite program for the parents of children with special needs. Ian was also instrumental in the establishment of the Maroondah Citizen Advice Bureau, as well as the Maroondah Social Health and Early Intervention Program.
Young Citizen of the Year was awarded to Ashley Cooke. At 17 Ashley has already made an enormous contribution to the Maroondah community. He is a volunteer with Maroondah Youth Services, and is a member of the Youth Festival Crew at Maroondah Festival. Ashley also volunteers with the Martial Arts Therapy program, helping to teach martial arts to young people who have a disability.
The Community Event of the Year was awarded to the Maroondah Schools Anzac Service 2015 organised by Rotary Club of Ringwood. This annual event teaches students about Australia’s history as well as sharing a message of peace. The 2015 event, which marked the Centenary of Gallipoli, attracted more than 700 Grade 4 and 5 students from schools across Maroondah.
Community Endorsement Council’s overall Community Satisfaction results provided good news with the Maroondah community once again rating Council’s overall performance significantly higher than both the state-wide average and metropolitan average. In 15 out of 19 services, Maroondah has achieved a community satisfaction level higher than state average, and has achieved higher than state average results in all six core performance measures. This is evidence of the high standard of work across all areas of Council, including our strategic leadership.
The Victorian Government initiated survey is an important measurement tool in gauging Council’s progress towards the goals stated in Maroondah 2040: Our future together and Council’s mission. It is one of many processes by which Council elicits important community feedback to ensure its activities are well targeted, performing efficiently and are relevant to the community. Council continues its commitment to continuous improvement and effective community consultation and encourages active involvement and participation to ensure we are responsive to the needs of the community.
Cr Natalie Thomas Steve Kozlowski Mayor Chief Executive Officer
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Our City Our location
The City of Maroondah covers a land area of 61.4 square kilometres in Melbourne’s outer east, 22 kilometres from the Central Business District (CBD). The area is a substantially developed peri-urban residential municipality, with an estimated population of 112,310 residents and 43,663 households with an average of 2.55 people per household.
The City of Maroondah includes the suburbs of Bayswater North, Croydon, Croydon Hills, Croydon North, Croydon South, Heathmont, Kilsyth South, Ringwood, Ringwood East, Ringwood North and Warranwood. The City also includes small sections of Kilsyth, Park Orchards, Vermont and Wonga Park.
With little remaining land available for greenfield residential development, future population growth will be mainly stimulated by housing consolidation and medium density development.
Maroondah has the strategic advantage of being located at the north-eastern junction of the Eastern Freeway - EastLink corridor. There are two train lines and a large number of bus routes linking the City with other regions. Our sustainable transport links continue to expand, with on- road cycling paths and shared paths on major trails, including the Mullum Mullum Creek Trail, the EastLink Trail, Taralla Creek Trail and the Dandenong Creek Trail.
Aerial view of the Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre
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Our residents
Maroondah has an estimated population of 112,310 residents and 43,663 households with a similar age structure to the State’s average.
Compared with metropolitan Melbourne, Maroondah has a slightly higher proportion of residents aged between 45 to 69 years and a lower proportion of residents aged between 20 to 35 years.
Cultural diversity in Maroondah is increasing, with the highest numbers of recent overseas immigrants arriving from Burma, China, Malaysia, India, Thailand and Iran. Maroondah is now home to the largest Burmese community in Melbourne’s eastern region.
There is a strong sense of community participation within Maroondah embodied by a large number of committed volunteers. More than two thirds of parents in Maroondah are actively involved in their local schools and one third of Maroondah’s residents are members of organised community groups.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 15 Our history The first settlers to the area prior to European colonisation were the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation approximately 40,000 years ago. The territory of the Wurundjeri lies within the inner city of Melbourne and extends north to the Great Dividing Ranges, east to Mt Baw Baw, south to Mordialloc Creek and west to Werribee River.
European settlers arrived in the 1830’s and commenced using the land for grazing cattle. The original Ringwood village emerged in the mid to late 19th century, following the initial sale of land and the local proliferation of grazing, fruit growing, antimony mining and brick making activities.
The first constructed road through the area led to Mount Dandenong and was known as Sawmill Road, then Oxford Road, then finally given its current name of Mount Dandenong Road. The area became better known when used by bullock teams heading for the gold fields in Woods Point and the Great Dividing Range.
The railway line from Melbourne commenced its eastward development in 1861 extending to Lilydale through Ringwood and Croydon in December 1882. This resulted in a consolidation of township facilities, including the provision of local churches, banks and schools to accommodate a growing population. The line to Ferntree Gully followed soon afterwards.
The proclamation in 1924 of the Borough of Ringwood coincided with the electrification of the railway line, encouraging township development and subdivision. Electric trains were in service between Ringwood and Croydon in 1924 and were extended to Lilydale in 1925.
During its early days, Croydon was part of the Shire of Lillydale’s South-West Riding. Unlike some neighbouring towns, it had not been planned and proclaimed a town by the Department of Crown Lands and Survey, but resulted from the private subdivision of crown land in the Parishes of Warrandyte, Mooroolbark and Ringwood. Severance of Croydon from Lillydale Shire was requested in 1957 since it was the most densely populated part of the Shire. The Shire of Croydon was declared in 1961.
Considerable suburban expansion during the post-war period gave rise to the declaration of the City of Ringwood in 1960 and formal recognition as part of the broader metropolitan region. Eastland was established in 1967 as a major 'new format' retail centre. In 1971, the City of Croydon was declared, reflecting increased residential development and population growth in this area.
Maroondah City Council was formed on 15 December 1994 by the amalgamation of the former Cities of Croydon and Ringwood, and parts of the former Shire of Lillydale and the former City of Doncaster and Templestowe. The term ‘Maroondah’ is named after an aboriginal word meaning ’leaf’ which symbolises the green environment of the city.
Main Street, Croydon in 1925
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Our economy
Over 9,000 businesses operate within the City with small business comprising over 96 percent of these organisations. The majority of businesses are in the construction, property and business services, finance and insurance, retail trade and manufacturing sectors. The largest industry employers are the manufacturing, retail trade and health care sectors. In total, businesses in Maroondah provide employment for 44,935 people and the municipality has a gross regional product (GRP) of $4.51 billion.
Maroondah has two major retail centres at Croydon and Ringwood, with Ringwood being one of the largest in Melbourne. In addition, a range of key service and retail precincts are clustered along the Maroondah Highway corridor and 21 neighbourhood shopping centres are spread throughout the municipality.
Maroondah is well positioned to take advantage of Victoria’s future growth. Ringwood is identified as a Metropolitan Activity Centre within Plan Melbourne, a State Government blueprint for the future, which was released in 2013. Croydon is also a key activity centre with concentrated retail opportunities and medium density housing development continuing to strengthen its thriving town centre.
The Bayswater North Employment Precinct is a major industrial and economic hub where many national and international firms have established their headquarters. The area offers diverse and flexible business accommodation with strategic access to EastLink, the Eastern Freeway and other major arterial roads.
Our environment
Maroondah has 42 bushland reserves that offer residents and visitors the enjoyment of wildflowers, wildlife, bush walks and wetlands. There are more than 750,000 trees (mostly native species) in parks and reserves providing shade and shelter, helping to control water runoff, evaporation and erosion and providing a home for wildlife. During 2015/16, Council planted over 3,000 additional street trees and over 20,000 trees and plants in parks and reserves in conjunction with Friends Groups.
There are many areas of recreational open space in Maroondah. The City has 420 parks and reserves with 48 sports ovals. Open space areas include two golf courses, 128 public playgrounds, three skate areas, and two exercise trails.
Maroondah’s residents and businesses are great recyclers: over 24,260 tonnes of recycling and green waste diverted from landfill in 2015/16. Maroondah has one of the highest diversion rates amongst Victoria’s 79 Councils.
The redeveloped Eastland opened in October 2015
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 17
Our Vision
Maroondah will be a vibrant and diverse city with a healthy and active community, living in green and leafy neighbourhoods which are connected to thriving and accessible activity centres contributing to a prosperous economy within a safe, inclusive and sustainable environment.
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Our future community outcomes
During 2013 and 2014, Council worked with the community to develop a vision for the future of Maroondah. Launched in September 2014, Maroondah 2040: Our future together identifies a range of preferred outcomes for the community looking ahead to the year 2040. The community’s future vision is for:
A safe, healthy and active community In 2040, Maroondah is a safe, healthy and active community with local opportunities provided for people of all ages and abilities to have high levels of social, emotional and physical wellbeing.
A prosperous and learning community In 2040, Maroondah is a thriving centre of economic activity and opportunity within the eastern region where the sustainability and growth of local businesses is supported. All community members, groups, education providers and local businesses have access to a wide range of quality learning resources and facilities.
A vibrant and culturally rich community In 2040, Maroondah is a creative cosmopolitan community recognised for its celebration and promotion of arts and culture. There are a broad range of engaging entertainment options, diverse cultural activities and the creation and display of contemporary and traditional forms of art.
A clean, green and sustainable community In 2040, Maroondah is a leafy green community with high levels of waste diversion and sustainable approaches to infrastructure development, urban design and management of natural resources. Our community is resilient and has the knowledge, capacity and resources to make sustainable lifestyle choices
An accessible and connected community In 2040, Maroondah is an accessible community for all ages and abilities with walkable neighbourhoods, effective on and off-road transport networks, and access to a range of sustainable transport options.
An attractive, thriving and well built community In 2040, Maroondah is an attractive community with high quality urban form and infrastructure that meets the needs and aspirations of all ages and abilities. A diverse range of housing options are available and thriving activity centres provide a broad range of facilities and services to meet community needs. The character of local neighbourhoods continues to be maintained while also accommodating population growth.
An inclusive and diverse community In 2040, Maroondah is an inclusive community where social connections are strong across generations and diversity is embraced and celebrated
A well governed and empowered community In 2040, Maroondah is an effectively empowered community that is actively engaged in Council decision making through processes that ensure their voice is heard and considered. Council provides strong and responsive leadership, ensures transparent processes and works with the community to advocate and champion their needs.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 19 Our organisational vision To deliver on the Maroondah 2040 Community Vision, Maroondah City Council should be an organisation that: Applies best practice in all that we do. We should be aware of how other organisations conduct their business and ensure we adopt the most practicable approaches/methods that are possible. Is a recognised leader in the local government sector. We should strive to set an example to others in innovation, service delivery, governance, performance and advocacy. Easily retains and attracts high quality staff. We should ensure that our reputation and staff practices are second to none. Fosters continuous improvement and innovation. We should encourage new ideas and changes to processes that are capable of improving our efficiency and effectiveness in service delivery and outcomes. Is transformational. We should acknowledge that by striving to meet the aspirations of Maroondah 2040, our organisation's work will change the look and feel of the Maroondah community. Is nimble, flexible and sustainable. We should ensure that we are proactive in identifying and planning for change and implement actions that endure. Is outwardly focused. We should focus on community outcomes, working together in partnership with state and regional bodies, local stakeholders and the Maroondah community.
Our mission Maroondah City Council will be an effective and dynamic leader, working in partnership with the community, business and other spheres of government to foster quality, accessible and sustainable lifestyles for the community.
Our values Values are important and enduring beliefs or ideas shared by members of a workplace about what is good or desirable. They exert major influences on the behaviour of an individual and serve as broad base guidelines in all workplace cultures.
Our core values at Maroondah City Council are:
Co-operation Working together and sharing knowledge to achieve common goals and agreed outcomes.
Commitment Leading by example to achieve the best result for the organisation and the community
Communication Sharing information and ideas at all levels, the Council and the community.
Continuous Improvement and Innovation Consistently finding better ways of delivering service and value
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How we plan
Council’s strategic documents are linked to an Integrated Planning Framework. The Framework seeks to ensure Council’s activities and resources are aligned in order to meet the aspirations, needs and expectations of the Maroondah community.
The Maroondah 2040 Community Vision and the Council Plan 2013-2017, along with associated legislation and regulatory requirements provide the direction for Council strategy, policies, plans and service delivery.
These strategic documents in turn guide internal service delivery plans that identify service delivery activities and projects to be undertaken by Council to meet community needs and expectations.
The Framework includes a number of other key planning documents, the Long Term Financial Strategy and Annual Budget, as well as a range of supporting strategies and policies adopted by Council.
All community focused policies, strategies and plans have been formally adopted by Council and can be accessed via Council’s website.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 21 Council’s Integrated Planning Framework
This framework is underpinned by the shared long term vision outlined in Maroondah 2040: Our future together which was developed during 2013/14 in conjunction with the community. The community aspirations and priorities for the future have been grouped into eight broad outcomes, each with a range of key directions that are high level strategies guiding the activities of Council and the community.
From Maroondah 2040: Our future together evolves a four year Council Plan that establishes Council’s medium-term key directions (strategies) and resourcing to deliver the outcomes identified within the Vision.
The Maroondah 2040: Our future together and the Council Plan 2013-2017 provide the direction for other major plans and internal Service Delivery Plans that identify activities and projects to be undertaken by Council to meet community needs and expectations.
The Framework includes a number of other key planning documents, the Long Term Financial Strategy and Annual Budget, as well as a broad range of supporting strategies and policies adopted by Council. All of these community focused plans, strategies and policies have been formally adopted by Council and can be accessed via Council’s website.
Key elements
Maroondah 2040: Our future together The Maroondah 2040 Community Vision captures the aspirations, desires, and priorities of the community. This provides a ‘roadmap’ for the community, Council and other levels of government to partner together and create a future that enhances Maroondah as a great place to live, work, play and visit.
Maroondah 2040: Our future together was developed during 2013/14 by Council in conjunction with the Maroondah community. Many community engagement activities were undertaken as the Vision was developed to understand future aspirations and priorities of community members who live, work and play within Maroondah.
The Vision provides the catalyst for Council and the community to work together to achieve a broad range of outcomes. The Vision will be subject to regular review to ensure its ongoing relevance to the community.
Maroondah 2040: Our future together can be found on Council’s website: www.maroondah.vic.gov.au
Council Plan 2013-2017
The Council Plan 2013-2017 is Maroondah City Council’s key medium-term strategic document that sets key directions and priority actions to work towards the long-term community vision outlined in Maroondah 2040: Our future together.
The Council Plan plays a vital role in shaping Maroondah’s future over a four year period. It identifies both challenges and opportunities for our community at local and regional level within the context of the community’s long term community vision. It also forms the basis for Council to make decisions regarding resources and priorities in response to community needs and aspirations.
Each year, Council presents to the community an updated set of key directions and priority actions for implementing the four-year Council Plan. This helps to ensure that the Plan continues to be responsive to community needs and expectations. The review also helps to ensure that all Council planning, strategies, policies and processes take their lead from the key directions outlined within the Plan. Our reporting on priority actions and strategic indicators within the Council Plan 2013-2017 can be found in Council’s Annual Report.
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Other major plans In addition to Maroondah 2040: Our future together and the Council Plan 2013-2017, there are a range of other strategic documents that have a significant influence on Council service delivery.
Municipal Strategic Statement The Municipal Strategic Statement (MSS) is part of the Maroondah Planning Scheme, providing clear overarching strategic directions for land use and development within the municipality. It is one of Council’s key strategic documents and must be consistent with the State Government's strategy for Melbourne known as Plan Melbourne, which is currently under review.
The MSS outlines a vision for the future development of the municipality and highlights key issues of importance for Maroondah. It also identifies the strategies and planning controls, such as planning zones and overlays, needed to implement these strategies. The Municipal Strategic Statement can be accessed via Council’s website.
Maroondah Community Wellbeing Plan The Maroondah Community Wellbeing Plan provides a framework aimed at maximising health and wellbeing in the community. The Plan provides the strategic directions and detailed actions regarding how Council and its numerous partners work towards achieving this goal.
The Plan is based on the social model of health which recognises that health and wellbeing are influenced by factors such as income and social status, the strength of social networks, level of education and employment status. The four health and wellbeing focus areas are: a healthy, social and safe environment; an equitable and engaged community; sustainable built and natural environments; and a vibrant and inclusive economy.
Other Council policies, strategies and plans There are many other policies, strategies and plans that also contribute to the delivery of outcomes and key directions within Maroondah 2040: Our future together and the Council Plan 2013-2017. These policies, strategies and plans can be found on Council’s website – www.maroondah.vic.gov.au
Council’s Long Term Financial Strategy and Annual Budget The Long Term Financial Strategy takes the outcome areas and key directions as specified in the Council Plan 2013-2017 and expresses them in financial terms over a rolling 10 year period. The Annual Budget documents the financial and non financial resources required by Council to implement the outcome areas, key directions and priority actions identified in the Council Plan. Consultation is conducted on the draft Annual Budget and feedback is considered before Council adopts the final budget.
Service Delivery Plans Collectively, Maroondah 2040: Our future together, the Council Plan 2013-2017, and the Long Term Financial Strategy set the direction for Service Delivery Plans across each of Council’s service areas. These plans are reviewed annually to meet community needs and expectations. Our reporting on key projects and initiatives within Service Delivery Plans can be found in Council’s Annual Report.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 23 Key principles
Best Value Best Value is a commitment from Council to provide the best value for the resources we use and the best possible service for our community. Council is required by the Local Government Act 1989 to consider Best Value principles when planning, implementing and reviewing its’ services.
Charter of Human Rights Council recognises and protects the rights, interests and responsibilities of individuals, the community, and public bodies in the City of Maroondah in accordance with the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities. Council's strategies, policies and decision-making processes are compatible with this charter. Council aims to ensure that it pursues a human rights approach across all areas of Council activity.
Community engagement Council is committed to engaging effectively with its community in a meaningful, accountable, responsive and equitable way. Maroondah’s Community Engagement Policy 2015 is a formal expression of Council’s commitment to engaging the Maroondah community through the use of appropriate, effective and inclusive practices.
The Policy outlines Council’s position, role and commitments to ensure community engagement is integrated into Council activities to support decision making, build relationships and strengthen communities. The Policy also seeks to improve Council’s engagement processes and outcomes through encouraging a consistent approach and continual learning through evaluation, and through expanding the range of engagement methods used.
Community engagement is defined as the range of opportunities for public involvement in Council decision‐making, relationship building and community strengthening. Community engagement is achieved when the community is and feels part of a process. Some community engagement processes are undertaken to support decision making, some are about relationship building whilst others are focused on community strengthening (or capacity building). Often engagement processes support two or all three of these objectives.
Council’s Community Engagement Policy 2015 is built upon a set of commitments that guide the planning, development, implementation, evaluation and continuous improvement of community engagement processes undertaken by Council. These commitments are based on core values identified by the International Association for Public Participation and will be undertaken in accordance with Council’s Privacy Policy.
The Local Government Act 1989 (the Act) and a range of other legislation set out minimum requirements for some specific consultations. The preparation and adoption processes for both the Council Plan and the Annual Budget are subject to compliance with Section 223 of the Act. In many instances Council will go above and beyond the minimum requirements of the Act to gain a strong understanding of our community’s wants and needs to ensure we are achieving the best possible outcomes for our community.
Community engagement is addressed in all reports and recommendations that come before Council for consideration. Community members also have the opportunity to attend and provide representation on issues at Council meetings. Community engagement is also undertaken on an ongoing basis via the participation of community members on the various advisory boards and committees that provide guidance to Council in the planning and conduct of various programs, projects and strategic directions.
Risk management Council continues to build upon its culture of risk management as an integral part of corporate governance and operations, developing strategies and systems to minimise risks. This ensures sustainable delivery of services and amenities enjoyed by ratepayers, residents and visitors. The identification and management of risk will continue to be a systematic process, implementing the principles set out in the Australian standard for risk management AS/NZS ISO 31000:2009. The Maroondah City Council Risk Management Framework documents how this will be achieved.
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Our Council The role and function of Council
The Victorian Constitution Act 1975, Section 64A(1) provides for “a system of local government consisting of democratically elected Councils having the function and powers that the Parliament considers necessary to ensure the peace, order and good government of each municipal district.”
The role of a Council is defined in the Local Government Act 1989 which: Formalises a Council’s legal status, purpose and objectives; Delegates Council with specific functions and powers; and Imposes Council with various duties.
At Maroondah City Council, our role is to: Deliver services that meet the needs and expectations of the Maroondah community; Advocate on behalf of community needs to other levels of Government; and Facilitate the delivery of outcomes by working in partnership with residents, businesses, community organisations and key stakeholders.
Over 120 different services are offered by Council including: aged and disability care, business development, community planning and development, youth services, infrastructure maintenance and renewal, leisure facilities, maternal and child health, parks and reserves, planning and building, and waste and recycling.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 25 Councillors and Wards
Wards
The municipality is divided into three wards: Arrabri, Mullum and Wyreena. Each ward is represented by three Councillors.
The role of Councillors
Councillors are responsible for the stewardship and governance of Council. The nine Councillors are the elected representatives of all residents and ratepayers across the City. They have responsibility for setting the strategic direction for the municipality, developing policy, identifying service standards and monitoring the performance of the Council organisation.
Further details regarding Maroondah City Councillors and their activities during 2015/16 may be found under the Corporate Governance section on page 109.
General Council Elections
The most recent general Council election was held on 27 October 2012 and conducted by the Victoria Electoral Commission. All 79 councils in Victoria simultaneously held a general election on that date for a four year term. The next Maroondah City Council general election will be held on 22 October 2016.
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Meet your Councillors
Arrabri Ward
Tony Dib JP (Mayor – July to November 2015) Mobile: 0438 515 089; [email protected] Sworn in February 2010
Christina Gleeson Mobile: 0418 548 994 [email protected] First elected November 2012
Natalie Thomas (Mayor – November 2015 to June 2016) Mobile: 0400 560 253 [email protected] First elected November 2005
Mullum Ward
Nora Lamont Mobile: 0428 394 581 [email protected] First elected November 2008
Mary-Anne Lowe Mobile: 0419 234 416 [email protected] Sworn in October 2014*
Samantha Marks Mobile: 0408 145 110 [email protected] First elected November 2012
Wyreena Ward
Liam Fitzgerald Mobile: 0407 793 635 [email protected] First elected November 2012
Rob Steane Mobile: 0407 519 986 [email protected] First elected November 2008
Les Willmott JP Mobile: 0417 391 743 [email protected] First elected March 1997
* Cr Ann Fraser passed away on Friday 8 August 2014 after a long struggle with cancer. After a count back by the Victorian Electoral Commission on 11 September 2014, Mary-Anne Lowe was sworn in as a Councillor on 20 October 2014.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 27 Corporate Management Team
Within the framework of strategic leadership and representative government, a position of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is established by the Local Government Act 1989 to oversee the day-to-day management of Council operations in accordance with the strategic directions of the Council Plan.
At Maroondah, the CEO together with three Directors form the Corporate Management Team (CMT) which leads the organisation. CMT meets on a weekly basis to oversee and manage the operations of Council, discuss forthcoming Council agendas and discuss strategic and policy issues. Members of CMT attend all Council meetings to provide information and advice enabling the Council to make informed decisions.
The Corporate Management Team is supported by Service Area Managers and employees with specialist skills to develop, implement, manage and deliver the operational, service and administrative activities required to meet the needs and expectations of the community.
Chief Executive Officer Steve Kozlowski
Steve Kozlowski has more than 25 years of senior local government management experience at Chief Executive Officer and Director levels, including 10 years with Maroondah City Council from 1994 to 2003. From the start of 2004, he was Chief Executive Officer at East Gippsland Shire until rejoining Maroondah City Council on 8 September 2014 as Chief Executive Officer.
During his time at East Gippsland, the Shire experienced considerable reform in financial capability and improvement in project and service delivery, advocacy initiatives, industry reputation and community satisfaction levels.
Steve has held executive positions on a number of national, state and regional committees ranging in interests including: economic development, environmental planning, tourism, coastal settlement development and community development. He led the strategic planning for the redevelopment of the Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre, the development of two regional plans for Gippsland and has overseen significant community capacity building and economic development and investment during his time in Gippsland. He was the founder of One Gippsland which is an advocacy group representing the interests of local government, the public sector and private sector stakeholders at the regional level. He is currently the Chair of the Melbourne East Regional Development Australia Committee.
Steve is a fellow of a number of professional associations including being a FAICD and FLGPro and holds an MBA, Grad Dip in Business Administration and a Bachelor of Business (Local Government). Steve is also the current chair of the Melbourne East Regional Development Australia (RDA) Committee.
Director Corporate Services Marianne Di Giallonardo
Marianne is responsible for Finance and Governance; Human Resources; Information Technology; and Revenue, Property and Customer Service.
Marianne has over 35 years experience in a range of local and Victorian Government arenas, including senior leadership and management across the portfolios of Corporate, Community and Leisure, and Infrastructure Services management. Her qualifications include a Masters of Business Administration. She is a member of a number of sector boards: Australia’s Centre of Excellence for Local Government – Research Advisory Committee as the Local Government Professionals Australia representative, and chairs the Infor Public Sector User Forum.
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Director Operations, Infrastructure and Leisure Trevor Welsh
Trevor is responsible for Assets; Engineering and Building Services; Leisure; and Operations.
Trevor has over 33 years experience in local government, holding senior positions at the Shire of Yarra Ranges as well as the former municipalities of Lilydale and Nunawading. Between 1998 and 2003, Trevor was Maroondah’s Manager of Planning and Environment. Trevor’s background is in the building industry and he is a registered Building Practitioner with qualifications as a Municipal Building Surveyor and Building/Scaffolding Inspector.
Director Planning and Community Phil Turner
Phil is responsible for Business and Development; Community Services; Integrated Planning; Planning, Health and Local Laws; Emergency Management, together with Council’s involvement in the Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre.
Phil has over 30 years experience in local government (he started at the former City of Ringwood in 1985) and has experience as a manager in areas such as Town Planning; Economic Development; Corporate and Business Planning; Local Laws; and Building. Tertiary qualifications include a Bachelor of Applied Science in Town Planning and a Graduate Diploma in Business Administration and Urban Research and Policy. He was part of the successful team that represented the City of Maroondah and won the Australasian final in the 1995 Active Learning Management Challenge.
Council’s Corporate Management Team (left to right), Trevor Welsh, Marianne Di Giallonardo, Steve Kozlowski and Phil Turner
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 29 Organisation Structure
The following chart details the organisational structure of Maroondah City Council as at 30 June 2016. There are 13 service area managers and 1097 employees (455.16 EFT) at Maroondah City Council that work to deliver outcomes for the local community.
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Corporate Performance and Values
The CEO, Directors and service area managers are employed under fixed-term employment contracts and their performance is measured and reviewed annually against key performance indicators.
Councillors review the performance of the CEO whilst the CEO reviews the performance of Directors and Service Area Managers. Employee activities are strongly guided by Council’s four values of cooperation, commitment, communication, and continuous improvement and innovation.
These values guide the behaviour of employees and service areas across the organisation, contributing to Council’s ability to meet community needs and expectations.
Allocation of resources for service delivery
The diagram below outlines how Maroondah City Council allocates available resources for the provision of a broad range of services to the community. Over 120 different services are offered by Council including: aged and disability care, arts and cultural development, business development, community planning and development, children’s services, engineering and building services, leisure facilities, maternal and child health, parks and reserves, planning and building, waste and recycling, and many more.
For more information on Council’s financial performance during 2015/16, please see the Financial Report on page 156.
In 2015/16, for every $100 of rates, Council spent:
$24.27 $23.97 $16.74 $15.73 $11.29 $8.00
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 31 Organisational Profile
There were a total of 1097 employees at Maroondah City Council as at 30 June 2016. This included 316 full-time, 316 part-time, and 465 casual employees; resulting in an equivalent of 455.16 full-time employees. The following provides an overview of Council’s workforce:
Total equivalent full-time employees (annually as at 30 June)
Year EFT* 460 2015/16 455.16 450 2014/15 448.38 440 2013/14 428.49 430 2012/13 413.10 420 2011/12 417.22 410 2010/11 428.38 400 2009/10 448.31 390 2008/09 440.48 380 2007/08 410.87
Notes: A number of positions are dependent on external funding. Casual employees are not included in the figures above. The reduction in employee numbers from 2010/11 to 2013/14 was due to the transition of the Ringwood Aquatic Centre to Aquanation
Equivalent full-time employees by Directorate (as at 30 June 2016)
Division EFT* CEO Office Corporate 80.84 8.51 Services Corporate Planning and 155.10 Services Community 80.84 Operations, 210.70 Operations, Infrastructure Infrastruct'e and Leisure and Leisure Planning and
CEO Office 8.51 210.70 Community 155.10
Note: A number of positions are dependent on external funding
Categories of Employees (% of total employees as at 30 June 2016) Year Full- Part- Casual time time 2015/16 28.81% 28.81% 42.39% Full‐time, 2014/15 35.4% 39.6% 25.0% 28.8% 2013/14 33.4% 38.6% 28.0% 2012/13 32.0% 35.1% 32.9% Casual, 2011/12 32.0% 37.6% 30.4% 42.4% Part‐time, 2010/11 28.9% 40.2% 30.9% 28.8% 2009/10 27.6% 39.0% 33.4%
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Resignations and new starts Year Resignations New Starts
2015/16 34 48 2015/16 2014/15 27 39 2014/15 2013/14 24 31 2013/14 New Starts 2012/13 37 38 2012/13 2011/12 39 43 2011/12 Resignations 2010/11 33 29 2010/11 2009/10 2009/10 26 33 2008/09 2008/09 27 33 2007/08 2007/08 27 28 2006/07 2006/07 17 19 2005/06 2005/06 19 22 2004/05 2004/05 23 32 2003/04 2002/03 2003/04 20 28 2001/02 2002/03 21 27 2000/01 2001/02 32 37 0 204 06 0
Note: Data represents full-time employees only
Categories of permanent employment (part and full time – annually as at 30 June) 2015/16 2014/15 2013/14 2012/13 Category Male Female Male Female Male Female Male Female Managers 12 4 14 4 15 5 15 5 Administration 45 191 40 172 28 161 26 158 Depot 71 6 68 8 69 8 65 7 Community service 10 56 10 59 9 55 7 53 Technical 54 20 52 22 56 24 53 26 Other 106 57 61 145 57 142 56 125 TOTAL 249 383 245 410 234 395 222 374 Note: 2015/16 data represents 316 full-time and part-time employees only. Council’s 316 casual employees are not included.
Banding of employees (as at 30 June 2016) Band Band Band Band Band Band Band Band All Structure Total 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 other Classification FTE FTE FTE FTE FTE FTE FTE FTE FTE FTE Permanent Full 0 0 2 18 35 29 16 2 24 126 Time - Female Permanent Full 0 0 43 24 30 28 23 1 41 190 Time - Male Permanent Part 7.66 4.32 5.55 36.65 14.61 11.55 4.44 0 33.21 117.99 Time - Female Permanent Part 3.23 3.05 1.69 2.27 2.79 0.50 0.90 0 6.74 21.17 Time - Male Sub total 10.89 7.37 52.24 80.92 82.40 69.05 44.34 3.0 104.95 455.16 Casual - Female 1.71 0 2.63 1.71 0.66 0.26 0 0 37.55 44.52 Casual - Male 1.71 0 0.92 0.26 0 0 0 0 13.82 16.71 TOTAL 14.31 7.37 55.79 82.89 83.06 69.31 44.34 3.00 156.32 516.39 Note: Data is subject to rounding.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 33 Human Resources
Human Resources is committed to the provision of quality services and activities to meet the aspirations, needs and expectations of Council and the community.
Council is a people business. Given that change is inevitable in today’s world, human resources initiatives and strategies must evolve and respond to changing business, community, market and regulatory needs and demands whilst maintaining a desired workplace culture.
Maroondah City Council’s Workforce, People and Culture Strategy operates from values-based principles that place ‘people’ at the heart of Council operations and simultaneously seeks improvement in service effectiveness for the community and employee wellbeing.
Workforce, People and Culture Strategy 2016-2020
The Workforce People and Culture Strategy 2016 – 2020 has been developed as part of Council’s strategic planning framework. The strategy aims to provide an organisational road map for the development, implementation, review and measurement of Workforce People and Culture initiatives, activities and systems for the next four years.
The Strategy aims to provide an organisational road map for the development, implementation, review and measurement of Workforce People and Culture services, activities and systems for the next four years.
Council is committed to the provision of quality services and activities to meet the aspirations, needs and expectations of Council and the community.
Council recognises the need to attract quality people and to optimise their performance and retention in order to continue to provide vital services to the community. Furthermore, implementing active workforce strategies in an environment of continuous change, potential uncertainty and continuous improvement requires a considered approach.
To ensure long term sustainability in meeting the needs and aspirations of the Maroondah community as articulated in Maroondah 2040: Our future together and the Council Plan 2013 2017, the Workforce, People and Culture Strategy includes a set of outcome areas, each with supporting key directions and priority actions.
The Strategy covers the short, medium and long term and will be formally reviewed on an annual basis as part of Council’s Annual Reporting Process and Service Delivery Planning process.
Consistent with an increased focus on managing risk, corporate governance and people, the development and implementation of this Strategy constitutes an essential document for Council’s Corporate Management Team, Management and HR professionals.
Valuing Diversity
Maroondah City Council promotes a culture of awareness and acceptance of diversity. Council values and promotes equality in the workplace and commits to providing redress for people who have been discriminated against, harassed or bullied. Council continues to pride itself on ensuring our employees are well educated in all aspects of equal opportunity and valuing diversity.
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Service Recognition / Employee Recognition and Reward / Study Completion
Major milestones of long service for employees at Maroondah City Council are acknowledged and recognised in June each year. These service milestones demonstrate strong human resource leadership within the organisation. Employees achieving exceptional performance are recognised through the Recognising Extra Value (REV) Program and recognition is also given to employees for successful study program completion. In 2015/16, 12 employees successfully completed their studies and 66 employees received a REV Award. The long service achievements are provided in the table below. In 2015/16, 30 Council employees achieved ten years of service, 12 employees achieved 20 years of service and one employee achieved 30 years of service.
Long service achievements 30 years service 20 years service 10 years service Fred Cottle Leanne Anderson Tom Amos Atanasia Montaldo Cecile Aronson Glyn Beresford Tracy Moore Mary-anne Brown Matthew Cook Jennifer Mullens Connie Burleigh Sherryn Dunshea Jennifer Murphy Claire Doyle Joanne Foster Marie Nathan Alan Ellis Sandy Fraser Anton Peiris Judy Oswald Heidi Grave Claudia Pinchbeck Pauline Renkema Aaron Harris Yvonne Pongho Dawn Robertson Wendy Harvey Caitlin Roberts Elizabeth Taylor Mary Katsikis Nicole Rowe Shirley Wood Deanne Keogh Damien Schubank Leanne Young Darren King Thi Tran Ida Lloyd Robyn Williams Simon McCoy Wayne Woodcock David McKenzie Helen Young
Workplace Giving
Employees at Maroondah City Council continue to donate to various charities on a monthly schedule, through direct payroll deductions. The charities selected reflect employee interest or involvement, with all charities being registered fundraisers in Australia. A total of $14,648.95 was raised in 2015/16.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 35 A new athletics pavillion is currently under construction at Proclamation Park in Ringwood
A safe healthy and active community
Our future vision
In the year 2040, Maroondah will be a safe, healthy and active community with local opportunities provided for people of all ages and abilities to have high levels of social, emotional and physical wellbeing.
Our highlights
What we did this year What we plan to do next year
Some of the key highlights for the 2015/16 year During 2016/17, Council will continue in working towards a safe, healthy and active working towards a safe, healthy and active community included: community by: Completing and opening Aquanation Completing construction of the Completing an Indoor Netball Feasibility Ringwood Athletics Pavilion and renewal Study and a Federal election commitment of the athletics track of $10.5million Completing sportsfield reconstruction Implementing the Croydon Connects works at Belmont Reserve in Croydon project and securing $435,000 in CCTV South and Springfield Reserve in funding Croydon Adopting the Active and Healthy Ageing Undertaking a strategic review of Initiative Ringwood Golf and Dorset Golf Adopting a new Physical Activity Strategy Completing development of the Youth Commencing construction on an athletics Plan 2017-2021 pavilion at Proclamation Park Commence construction of dog parks in Investigating the feasibility of a new dog Maroondah park with locations determined
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Our feature project for 2015/16 Opening of Aquanation
Aquanation, Maroondah’s new state of the art aquatic and leisure centre, opened its doors to the community in August 2015.
The $52.2 million centre features a 66.5 metre pool and 10 metre diving tower, a warm water pool, a dedicated learn to swim pool, large toddler and children’s leisure play pool, a large gym with three separate group fitness rooms, child care facilities and a café.
The facility also includes two indoor waterslides which can be used all year round, with access via stairs inside the facility. The dry diving facilities are unique in Australia, and allow for more effective training routines, and provide divers, from beginner to elite, the ability to perfect their technique in a more controlled environment.
For groups and people with a disability, the facility is fully accessible with ramp access to all bodies of water. Specific programs for people with disabilities are incorporated into the aquatic and dry leisure facilities. Accessible change facilities include a shower, hoist and adult size change table.
Public artwork features prominently in Aquanation with four pieces designed and created by Anna Minardo including the unique glass art on the lift wall and cafe wall.
With a regional catchment of more than one million people, Aquanation is expected to cater for more than 800,000 visitations per year including for people of all ages – from water play for babies and toddlers to dedicated activities for older adults.
Aquanation hosted the 2016 Australian Open Diving Championships in May 2016, incorporating the Nomination Trials for the 2016 Olympics in Rio De Janerio.
The project was supported by funding grants from the Australian Government and the Victorian Government, along with sponsorship from Ringwood East and Heathmont Community Bank, and EastLink.
Aquanation opened its doors to the Maroondah community in August 2015
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 37 Our commitments during 2015/16 (Council Plan priority actions)
Action Title What was achieved Responsibility Status
Complete Construction of Aquanation was Operations, Achieved construction, open completed in July 2015 and the facility Infrastructure and commence was officially opened on Friday 14 and Leisure operations at August 2015. The centre opened its doors to the public on Saturday 15 Aquanation in August. The $52.2 million facility Spring 2015 features a 66.5 metre pool and 10 metre diving tower, a warm water pool, a dedicated learn to swim pool, large toddler and children’s leisure play pool, two indoor water slides, a large gym with three separate group fitness rooms, child care facilities and a café. In support of this project, Council received $10 million in funding from the Australian Government as part of the Regional Development Australia Fund; $3 million from the Victorian Government through the Community Facility Funding Program; $200,000 from Bendigo Bank and $20,000 from EastLink.
Work in Council successfully worked in Operations, Achieved partnership to partnership with six eastern region Infrastructure develop the Council’s, Regional Development and Leisure Melbourne East Victoria and Sport and Recreation Victoria to develop and finalise the Sport and Melbourne East Regional Sport and Recreation Recreation Strategy. The Strategy has Strategy been developed to support and guide Melbourne East Councils and stakeholders in the planning and delivery of regional level sport and recreation facilities and shared recreation trails for the next 20 years. Council formally endorsed the Strategy in May 2016. Complete an Council completed a study during Operations, Achieved Indoor Netball 2015/16 aimed at identifying options for Infrastructure Feasibility Study the location, scope and cost for an and Leisure indoor netball facility. Assessment of eight potential sites was undertaken during 2015 (HE Parker Reserve, The Rings, Parkwood, Norwood Secondary College, Ringwood Secondary College, Eastfield Park, Dorset Reserve and Peter Vergers Reserve). HE Parker Reserve in Heathmont was assessed as the most suitable site. The study estimated that it would cost $12 million to construct a stadium and associated infrastructure. As part of the 2015 Federal Election campaign and in response to advocacy from Council, the Coalition Government committed $10.5 million for a new regional netball centre in Maroondah.
38 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
Action Title What was achieved Responsibility Status
Complete During 2015/16, works commenced on a Operations, Commenced development of new athletics pavilion and track upgrade Infrastructure A.C. Robertson at Proclamation Park in Ringwood. Upon and Leisure Athletics Pavilion completion, the new $1.7 million multipurpose pavilion will include a multi-purpose room; change rooms and toilets; gym; and a kitchen. Design of the new pavilion was completed in 2015/16 and construction commenced in January 2016. Construction is scheduled for completion by September 2016.The track replacement, coupled with the pavilion upgrade project, will provide Maroondah with a first class regional athletics facility for the whole community to use. The upgraded facility will provide accessible and safe amenities for a range of user groups including the Ringwood Athletic Centre, Special Committee of Council; Ringwood Athletic Club; Ringwood Little Athletic Centre; Proclamation Park Walkers and Ringwood Professional Athletics Club. The pavilion works and track development has been funded with $2 million from Council’s Capital Works program, $650,000 from the Victorian Government Sport & Recreation Victoria Grants Program and $100,000 from the AC Robertson User Group.
Our strategic indicator results during 2015/16 (Council Plan indicators) Actual Target Actual Actual Indicator/Measure 2015/16 2015/16 2013/14 2013/14 Overall Maternal and Child Health service client participation in key ages and 99.4% 95% 96.9% 95.3% stages visits (LGPRF - Participation in first home visit) Attendance at Council aquatic and leisure facilities as a proportion of the residential 7.19 5.5 5.75 5.84 population (LGPRF - Number of visits per head of population) Community satisfaction with recreation facilities 78 76 74 76 (CSS) Please note that a change of less than +/- 3% is not considered significant
There was a total of 2057 new enrolments in Council’s Maternal and Did you know? Child Health Service during 2015/16, representing a 21% increase in new enrolments compared with last financial year.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 39 Our core services
Aquahub (Leisure) Aquahub provides a variety of programs and services to those in the community looking to improve or maintain their health and wellbeing. The facility provides a large gym, a comprehensive group fitness program, aquatic facilities for both general usage (lap swimming, recreation use, individual rehab) and specialised programs (aqua aerobics, rehab classes, special needs programs), and a quality aquatic education program for all ages and abilities.
Aquanation (Leisure) Aquanation features a 66.5 metre 10 lane pool with comprehensive diving facilities. The facility also offers a warm water pool, a dedicated learn to swim pool, large toddler and children’s leisure play pool, two large waterslides, dedicated dry dive training facilities, a large gym with three separate group fitness rooms, child care facilities and a café. With a regional catchment of more than one million people, it is expected that Aquanation will have more than 800,000 visitations per year and cater for people of all ages. Aquanation opened in August 2015 and is located on Greenwood Avenue in Ringwood.
Children’s Services (Community Services) Council provides a range of Children’s Services including Family Day Care, Occasional Care and Vacation Care programs. Council also owns 21 kindergarten facilities that are leased to local committees of management and operated by a Kindergarten Cluster Manager (Best Chance) to deliver programs for three and four year old children living in Maroondah.
Maternal and Child Health Services
40 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
Community Health Services (Planning, Health and Local Laws) Council plays an instrumental role protecting and promoting the health and wellbeing of the community through education and prevention strategies, while initiating regulatory intervention where there is a risk to the health, wellbeing and/or safety of our community. A broad range of proactive and reactive activities are undertaken that include the registration and assessment of food and health businesses; statutory food and water sampling; communicable disease investigations; preventative health services; and advice that include direct immunisation services and general health promotion activities. Emergency management activities including the prevention of, response to, and recovery from disasters within the Maroondah municipality and the surrounding Eastern region are also a key focus of the team.
Croydon Memorial Pool (Leisure) This facility has served the community since 1962. The seasonal outdoor pools provide for general usage (lap swimming, recreation use) and specialised programs (aquatic education, aqua aerobics, school carnivals). The facility also provides a summer venue for youth events and a family friendly destination over the summer months.
Dorset Golf (Leisure) Dorset Golf is located in Trawalla Rd, Croydon and offers a secluded 18 hole public course. There is a fully stocked golf shop and golf lessons and practice facilities are available.
Maternal & Child Health (MCH) (Community Services) The Maternal and Child Health service is a state-wide universal service for families with children from birth to school age. The service is delivered at seven Maternal and Child Health centres across the municipality and is provided in partnership with the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development. Council also provides an enhanced service focusing on children, mothers and families at risk of poor health and community wellbeing outcomes. In addition the Maroondah program includes, a lactation service, early parenting program, a dad’s program, a Burmese families program and an extensive needs-based parenting education group program.
Ringwood Golf (Leisure) Ringwood Golf is an 18 hole public golf course, often referred to as one of Melbourne’s leading public access courses. The course is located just off EastLink on Canterbury Road, offering golf lessons, practice facilities, a fully stocked golf shop and a café.
Sport and Projects (Operations) This function provides maintenance of Council’s parks and gardens, sportsfields and playgrounds. This includes grass mowing and maintenance of landscaped areas within the municipality.
Sports and Recreation (Leisure) This function supports and provides a range of leisure opportunities for the Maroondah community. The Team supports and encourages increased community involvement in physical activity by delivering programs, activities and events such as the annual Maroondah Festival. The Team also seeks to maximise opportunities for community based physical activity by increasing skills and resources. This is achieved through advocacy and lobbying peak sports bodies and other levels of government for increased funding of programs and facilities; providing information and skill development to local clubs and groups; facilitating local networks to establish partnerships; and monitoring industry trends and participation patterns to ensure local service planning remains relevant to community needs. Sports and Recreation is also responsible for the overall occupancy of Council’s sporting facilities and pavilions including seasonal allocations, leases, licences and casual use.
The Rings (Leisure) The Rings is a four court indoor stadium in Ringwood. The venue offers a range of both junior and adult competitions and programs, mainly catering for basketball and netball. The Rings conducts school holiday activities including multisport programs and skills coaching.
Within Maroondah, there are 48 sportsfields used by 35 seasonal winter Did you know? clubs and 29 seasonal summer clubs.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 41 Our achievements
A safe community
New connections in Croydon The Croydon Connects project was completed in 2015/16. The aim of the project was to create better connections through the heart of Croydon – from Croydon Station through Main Street and down San Carlos Walk to Croydon Park. Street lighting and wayfinding signage along the route was upgraded and urban design elements such as new garden beds and bench seating, feature lighting and concrete pavement added to San Carlos Walk. The Croydon Connects project was made possible through a $250,000 grant from the Department of Justice Public Safety Infrastructure Fund and $200,000 in Council funding.
Maroondah Liquor Accord launched In 2015, Council led the establishment and launch of a new Maroondah Liquor Accord 2015 2018, which will help to promote best practice and high standards of behaviour in and around licenced premises. The Accord brings together forty of Maroondah’s licensed venues including hotels, licensed restaurants/cafes, licensed clubs, packaged liquor outlets, cinemas and sporting clubs. The Accord focuses on how alcohol can be sold and distributed in a responsible way, while maximising the safety and enjoyment of staff, patrons and community members. Its main commitments relate to: the responsible serving of alcohol; the prevention of underage drinking; responsible advertising and promotion; as well as amenity, safety and security in and around licensed venues. The Accord project resulted from a recommendation within Council’s Alcohol Management Framework, adopted in 2013. The Accord is supported by Victoria Police, the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation and Council. Membership is a voluntary commitment by a licensee on behalf of their premises.
One Million Stars to End Violence During 2015/16, Council partnered with the Maroondah community in supporting the One Million Stars campaign. The campaign aims to bring people around the world together to weave one million stars, which are then displayed in large public installations aimed at raising awareness about violence against women and children in our society. The stars are symbols of light, courage and solidarity, serving as a powerful reminder that we all have the power to end all forms of violence, including violence against women and children. As a Weave100 community, Council promised to create and donate 10,000 stars to the project. A number of star weaving events and workshops were held with a range of schools, kindergartens, scout groups, community groups and community houses across Maroondah participating in the campaign. The stars will form part of an installation in Realm during November 2016, before they are sent to Queensland to form part of a major installation at the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games. The One Million Stars to End Violence was started by Melbourne artist Maryann Talia Pau, as a response to the tragic death of Jill Meagher in 2012. It has grown into an international weaving movement, with 500,000 stars already woven by communities in Australia and across the world.
Council has partnered with the Maroondah community in supporting the One Million Stars campaign
42 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
Conference takes action on alcohol use Council hosted the first Your Shout! Action on Alcohol Conference at Karralyka on 23 July 2015, which was attended by well over 100 people. The conference was organised by the Eastern Metropolitan Region Action on Alcohol Flagship Group, which is made up of representatives from local community health agencies and seven Councils in the Eastern Region. The aim of the Conference was to bring together authorities, community agencies and other key stakeholders in the Region to learn from experts and each other. Through the day, attendees had the opportunity to hear from academics, researchers, police, and policy and planning practitioners about the limitations and challenges faced in dealing with alcohol use and misuse, and also the opportunities to influence these challenges.
Understanding risks associated with underage drinking in sporting clubs This pilot project was implemented by the Eastern Metropolitan Region Action on Alcohol Flagship Group aimed at helping participants in local sporting clubs understand the potential impacts of underage drinking. The project applied a train the trainer model to deliver the program in conjunction with representatives from Council, Victoria Police and local drug and alcohol services. Presentations were delivered to three local sporting clubs in Maroondah on risky drinking in young people and the impact of alcohol on the adolescent brain. All presentations were well received with positive feedback.
Council hosts annual White Ribbon Maroondah Golf Cup Dorset Golf hosted the White Ribbon Maroondah Golf Cup aimed at raising funds for White Ribbon – Australia’s only national, male led campaign to end men’s violence against women.
A healthy community
Planning for a new dog park in Maroondah In response to community feedback, Council investigated sites for the development of new dog parks in Maroondah during 2015/16. Dog parks are places where owners can take their dogs to exercise and play off-leash in a controlled environment under the supervision of their owners. They can include activity and training areas and natural rummaging spaces within a fenced area. During the year, community members were also encouraged to have their say about what elements they would like to see included in a dog park. Following initial investigations, Eastfield Park and Quambee Reserve were identified as potentially suitable sites, when taking into account the amount of space required and the proximity to amenities, such as toilets and car parking. In June 2016, Councillors approved the construction of two fenced dog parks in Maroondah - one at Eastfield Park in Croydon as a regional facility, and a second smaller, more localised facility, at Quambee Reserve in Ringwood North.
Improving wellbeing outcomes for Maroondah’s young people As part of developing a new Youth Plan 2017-2021 during 2015/16, Council embarked on a collaborative project with local schools and the University of Melbourne to gather information aimed at improving wellbeing outcomes for young people. The Maroondah Youth Wellbeing and Consultation Project involved extensive consultation with young people at more than 20 primary and secondary schools across Maroondah. Key stakeholder groups such as the Maroondah Student Wellbeing Network, the Maroondah Youth Service Providers Network, and the Eastern Homelessness Network have also been consulted. Consultation activities included use of The University of Melbourne's 'Wellbeing Profiler survey for schools; broader youth and stakeholder consultation; a youth consultation forum; and background research. Nearly 5,000 responses were provided with data analysed and used to inform development of the new Youth Plan. Municipal and school level results were also provided to individual schools to assist them in their programming. This work has obtained a rich picture of the current well-being of young people in Maroondah which will also be used for community wide planning and decision making, and to assist other community organisations to improve wellbeing outcomes.
During the year, a total of 1,794 onsite visitations were made by Council Did you know? to registered Food and Health premises within the municipality.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 43 Creating an age friendly Maroondah through the Active and Healthy Ageing Initiative Council launched the Active & Healthy Ageing Initiative in October 2015 as Council’s and the community’s blueprint for creating an age-friendly Maroondah. The initiative is a partnership between Council and the community to introduce age-friendly projects and services into Maroondah that support an active and healthy population. The aim is to maintain and increase wellbeing throughout life as we work towards becoming a more Age Friendly City. The Initiative has been endorsed by COTA Victoria and was developed following extensive community consultation and ongoing engagement. Age-friendly initiatives implemented in 2015/16 included: walkability and accessibility improvements; development of an asset management advisory group; a volunteer refresher course for older drivers; a keeping safe and mobile session; free Tai Chi activities in Town Square; free personal training at Cheong Park; the installation of new bench seats at nominated places; and an intergenerational information technology training clinic in partnership with Ringwood Secondary College. Maroondah is the first Council in Victoria to have had its membership to the WHO Global Network of Age- friendly Cities & Communities renewed and Council has also signed the Victorian Age-friendly Declaration.
Continued implementation of Community Wellbeing Plan The Maroondah Community Wellbeing Plan provides strategic directions and detailed actions aimed at maximising health and wellbeing in the community. Some of the implementation highlights during the financial year included: breastfeeding friendly workplace accreditation for Council; approval of The Maroondah Liquor Accord by Victorian Police and Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation; implementation of capital works at East Ringwood and North Ringwood Senior Citizens Centres; implementation of a social inclusion program at Council’s 22 kindergartens to address barriers to Indigenous pre-school participation; delivery of a Family Fun Day for children and families with a cultural activity focus; presentation of the Shout Exhibition at Maroondah Art Gallery; delivery of the Local People for Local Jobs initiative; commencement of a review of the Maroondah Gaming Policy; and the development of an Employee Active Travel Plan. A range of other projects identified within the Plan are reported on separately within this Annual Report. During 2016/17, Council will commence development of a new Community Wellbeing Plan for the 2017-2021 period . New plan to enhance the lives of children and families In August 2015, Council adopted the Maroondah Children’s Plan 2015-2019. The Plan builds on previous Early Years Plans and details how Council will work to enhance the lives of children aged 0 to 12 and their families living in the municipality. In particular, the Plan highlights the need for places and spaces to enhance social connections. This includes connecting families and services; connecting children with each other; cross cultural and intergenerational connections. The Plan was developed involving considerable community consultation into the key care, health, education and wellbeing needs and issues currently affecting children and their families.
Council launched the Active & Healthy Ageing Initiative in October 2015
44 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
Maroondah community comes together for Night of Light event In partnership with EACH, Council hosted a ‘Night of Light’ event at Maroondah Federation Estate in October 2015 that focused on bringing the community together to look forward, as one, to a brighter tomorrow. The event aims to remind the Maroondah community that the community is here to support one another, and that everyone can play a role in preventing suicide. Those attending had the opportunity to learn about, and connect with, services available in Maroondah and the eastern suburbs. beyondblue Ambassador, Alan Weston, shared his story and the impact suicide and mental illness has had on his life and the lives of his family. Following Alan’s presentation there was an opportunity to light a candle and consider what could be done as individuals and as a community to help reduce suicide rates.
Children’s Fun Day celebrates childhood To celebrate National Children’s Week 2015, Council organised a free Children’s Fun Day in October 2015. The event involved a special performance by The Music Man Paul Jamieson, storytelling, craft and other interactive activities. Children’s Week celebrates the right of children to enjoy childhood.
Food Safety Risk Management Framework Council developed a food safety management framework during 2015/16 containing priorities, timeframes, targets and performance (output and outcome) indicators. Service planning policies to underpin an outcomes based approach to regulation have commenced. Council is currently trialling a new food safety assessment tool.
Implementation of the Healthy Together Achievement Program In 2015/16, Council implemented this program across its early childhood services aimed at creating healthier environments, and recognising achievements in promoting the health and wellbeing of children. The program involves eight health priorities with Council’s Occasional Care and Family Day Care Services focusing on Sun Smart and Physical Activity priorities. Once benchmarks for these priorities have been met, these services can apply for accreditation. In 2016/17, these services will focus on the Healthy Eating and Safe Environment priorities.
National Youth Week 2016 celebrates local young people Council celebrated this year’s National Youth Week in April 2016 with a series of activities to highlight what young people have to offer and provide opportunities to make a difference. Youth Week events included: the annual Maroondah Youth Awards which recognised and celebrated the success and achievements of young people in Maroondah; Our Generation’ which brought together young people and seniors to share skills and stories; and the Pure Talent Youth Arts Showcase Participants in the Maroondah where a selection of Maroondah’s VCE artwork and Young Leaders Program were performance pieces were on display. recognised at the Maroondah Youth Awards
Engaging dads in parenting Council has continued to implement a pilot program in partnership with The Australian Childhood Foundation and Dad’s Group Inc. to support fathers in Maroondah. This program focuses on engaging fathers both with Council’s Maternal and Child Health Program whilst supporting them in their individual parenting role. A feature event in April 2016, saw 104 dads and their children participate in the Man with a Pram world record achievement for the most dads and prams to walk a mile as a group. Participants walked from Ringwood Town Square to Aquanation and were provided with a free lunch and access to Aquanation facilities.
By 2020, it is estimated that more than 40 percent of Maroondah’s Did you know? population will be aged 45 or over.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 45 An active community
Kevin Pratt Pavilion opened The Kevin Pratt Pavilion at Mullum Mullum Reserve was officially re-opened in February 2016, following a $2.8 million dollar redevelopment and refurbishment. The original pavilion was constructed in 1968 and the facilities were increasingly unable to meet user needs. Two large multipurpose rooms have been added, enabling clubs to hold social functions and build their membership base. The rooms are also used by University of the Third Age Ringwood (U3A) for activities such as Tai Chi, exercise to music, art classes, astronomy classes, yoga and table tennis. There has been a complete refurbishment of the existing change rooms and the addition of new change rooms, which cater for the increased female participation at the club. There are also new public toilets and accessible toilets, a gymnasium, media room, viewing deck, office space, a lift, and storage space as well as a new kitchen and canteen. The new pavilion provides enhanced facilities for Norwood Sporting Club, which includes the Norwood Football and Cricket clubs as well as the Junior Football Club, Netball Club and Social Golf Club. Council contributed $1.5 million to the project, which was also supported by the Federal and Victorian governments, Norwood Sporting Club and AFL Victoria.
Resurfacing works completed at HE Parker Reserve During 2015/16, resurfacing works were undertaken at HE Parker Reserve. The $800,000 project was undertaken to ensure playing fields remain at the highest standard, despite changing weather patterns. The works included more efficient sub surface drainage and irrigation systems; re-grading of ground surface and the installation of a sand blanket to aid drainage; reshaping the oval surface to allow for better rain runoff; installation of new turf to reduce water consumption; reconstruction of the turf wicket; and new synthetic turf in high wear areas. The main oval now has a superior playing surface ensuring the football and cricket clubs can access the ground all year round.
Aquanation hosts the Australian Diving Championships and Olympic Trials During May 2016, Aquanation hosted the 2016 Australian Open Diving Championships, incorporating the Nomination Trials for the 2016 Olympics in Rio De Janerio. Large crowds took advantage of the free spectator entry for the four day event, hosted by Diving Australia, which included male and female five metre platform diving, three-metre and one-metre springboard events and mixed synchronised diving. At the end of each day of competing, Aquanation and Ringwood Diving Club offered a free ‘Come and Try’ diving activity for spectators. Aquanation also hosted the 2015 Australian Domestic Grand Prix and Oceania Championships in December. The country’s top divers, including Commonwealth and Olympic Games medallists competed in front of a full grandstand, with local divers achieving medal status in this international competition.
A new strategy to promote physical activity In September 2015, Council adopted a new Physical Activity Strategy 2015-2020 aimed at increasing the community’s participation in physical activity and to tackle the health problems associated with sedentary lifestyles. The Strategy focuses on four key Council priorities, which highlight opportunities for Council to impact local physical activity levels. These priorities are: Active Travel; Activating Open Space; The Future of Sport; and Schools and Workplaces. The Strategy has been developed in line with the Maroondah 2040 Community Vision and in response to recommendations within the Community Wellbeing Plan 2013–2017. The five year action plan will guide the development of new policies, infrastructure improvements, programs and initiatives, aimed at increasing access to and prioritisation of physical activity. Council has commenced implementation of the Strategy with highlights including: the establishment of working group to develop a Get Walking promotional strategy and program initiative; development of a calendar that identifies State and Federal Government health promotion initiatives; establishment of a new emerging sport (Kronen); the reintroduction of Corporate Games participation; implementation of interactive initiatives with cultural and linguistic diverse communities at the Maroondah Festival; a grant submission to assist emerging sports and marginalised groups to access Council facilities; and confirmation of funding to upgrade lighting at Town Park Athletic Complex in Croydon.
46 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
New Parkour space at Glen Park Parkour equipment was installed at Glen Park in Bayswater North as part of an innovative community development project. The Victorian Government funded project led by Co-Design Studio engaged young people from Heathmont Secondary College in the design and construction of the space. Logs were reclaimed from other Council projects and installed at Glen Park to create an interesting low level Parkour exercise area as well as casual seating close to the existing tennis and basketball courts.
Maroondah Runners Club kicks off Council established the Maroondah Runners Club in 2015/16 to encourage local residents to pursue greater physical activity. The sessions aim to create a safe and supportive environment along with coaching advice. The Maroondah Runners Club offers free training sessions every second Wednesday evening of the month at Croydon Athletics Track with runners of all ages and fitness levels able to attend. Coached sessions include interval, sprint and fartlek training.
Ringwood Golf sets a new world record To celebrate becoming the first golf course in Victoria to offer the Golf Skate Caddy for hire, Ringwood Golf set world records in April 2016 for the fastest game of golf on a Golf Skate Caddy. The Golf Skate Caddy effectively combines board sports with golf. Golfers use a stance that is similar to being on a snow or surfboard. Players lean their body’s weight left or right whilst holding on to a handle, with a controller for braking and accelerating. Golfers of all ages and abilities can use this kind of caddy, and the tyres reduce impact on the fairway. The fastest time set on the day saw 18 holes of golf completed in just over 43 minutes by professional golfer, Graham Maher. Female professional golfer Michelle Scerri, completed the course in just under 45 minutes. World records were also set by amateur male and female individuals, along with men’s and women’s relay teams
New cricket nets completed in Croydon South In February 2016, new cricket nets at Cheong Park were installed. The project involved a redesign and expansion of the old training nets, to incorporate a modern and open five-bay cricket net facility, complete with new netting, synthetic grass and internal fly netting. The new nets complete the works undertaken by Council at Cheong Park over a number of years that have seen the oval resurfaced, a new scoreboard, and refurbished club rooms. The new facilities will support the skill development of both junior and senior players at South Croydon Cricket Club. The project was funded with $55,600 from Council, $35,000 from the South Croydon Cricket Club and a $20,955 grant from the Victorian Government’s Local Facilities for Local Clubs Program.
Local community participates in Run Maroondah 2015 Council hosted Run Maroondah 2015 at HE Parker Reserve in September 2015 with more than 500 people taking part. This year, 150 people took part in the timed 10km run, with the fastest 10km runner crossing the line in under 38 minutes. The family friendly event attracted participants from a wide variety of age groups, experience and skill levels. The event is an initiative that works towards achieving the objectives outlined in Council’s recently endorsed Physical Activity Strategy 2015-2020.
Maroondah Leisure launches re-engagement program and member retention strategy During 2015/16, Council commenced a member re-engagement program which involves encouraging non attending members to re-set goals and get back into an exercise routine at Maroondah Leisure facilities. A comprehensive strategy for engaging and retaining members is under development which will involve customer research to determine priority areas. Council has commenced redevelopment of the Maroondah Leisure website which will include online membership sales as well as the booking of personal training and aquatic and stadium programs. A paperless membership sales module is also being developed.
The Aquanation presales campaign saw 3931 members joining, over 30 Did you know? percent above the target level.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 47 User group license agreements updated for Council’s recreation facilities During 2015/16, user group agreements for Ringwood Basketball Association, Croydon District Volleyball Association, Ringwood Swimming Club and Ringwood Diving Club were updated in line with each group’s specific terms.
First Grey Medallion programs held in Maroondah Council completed its first Grey Medallion programs at Aquahub in Croydon during 2015. Participants took part in an eight week Royal Life Saving program with the aim of improving their water safety and lifesaving skills. The program helped participants to feel more confident in the water and know what to do if faced with an emergency. The program involved four key components: water safety knowledge, resuscitation and emergency care, aquatic exercise, personal survival and lifesaving skills.
Our challenges
Increased community expectations for Council leisure facilities Council continues to experience increased demand and expectations for local sport and leisure facilities. In 2015/16, this has included a rapid increase in female football participation resulting in a need for additional grounds and change rooms.
Immunisation: No Jab No Pay legislation The introduction of new State Government legislation has resulted in a sharp increase in enquiries and Council workload relating to developing catch up immunisation schedules. Children who were immunised overseas need their immunisation history uploaded to the national database to prevent Centrelink payments being cut off. There are increases in referrals from GPs and people attending our sessions to have catch up schedules completed. Councils in the Eastern Region, including Maroondah, are seeking improved funding and resources from the State Government to cater for this additional workload.
Our future directions
Complete construction of the $1.7m Ringwood Athletics Pavilion and $1m athletics track renewal Construction of the $1.7m new Athletics Pavilion at Proclamation Park is currently underway, and is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2016. The $1m athletics track renewal project, which consists of a new high quality surface, will commence in August and will also be completed by the end of 2016.
Undertake a strategic review of Maroondah Golf. Council will undertake a strategic review of Maroondah Golf in 2015 aimed at guiding the long term planning and development of the two golf facilities and investigate options for different operational models.
Commence construction of new dog parks in Maroondah In 2016/17, Council will commence detailed design and commence construction work to provide two fenced dog parks in Maroondah. Eastfield Park in Corydon South will incorporate a larger regional facility whilst Quambee Reserve in Ringwood North will have a smaller more localised facility. The design of these parks will incorporate existing community feedback.
Complete development of the Maroondah City Council Youth Plan 2017-2021 The broad community and youth consultation phase of the next Youth Plan is approaching completion. During 2016/17, information from this consultation program will be used to formulate a clear plan for Maroondah’s young people for the 2017-2021 period. It is anticipated that the Plan will be completed by the end of 2016, and launched in early 2017.
48 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
Install CCTV in Ringwood and Ringwood East Council has commenced the installation of CCTV safety systems for Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre and Ringwood East shopping precinct with a total of 12 CCTV cameras to be installed in priority locations. This project will be completed during 2016/17.
Implement year two activities from the Physical Activity Strategy Council will implement year two2 activities from the Physical Activity Strategy 2015-2020 including: installation of an interactive signboard at Town Park athletic track informing casual users of track availability and program opportunities such as the Maroondah Runners Club sessions; advocating for the introduction of a Maroondah based Pride Cup in the Eastern Football League; advocating and supporting emerging sports and marginalised groups by providing increased access to Council facilities; and installing new lighting at Town Park Athletic complex in Croydon.
Work in partnership to address hoarding and squalor During 2016/17, a number of initiatives will see the Maroondah Hoarding and Squalor Partnership leading the sector in its community education and resource guidance. A particular focus will include the development of a hoarding and squalor website for community and service providers.
Develop and implement a marketing and brand strategy for Maroondah Leisure In order to develop the Marketing Strategy, a Maroondah Leisure member market research campaign will be undertaken. The results of the market research, combined with observation of facilities’ operations, customer service and experience levels and sales process, as well as assessments of previous or current marketing campaigns and results will form the basis of the Strategy. The Brand Strategy will provide a foundation and guidelines for Maroondah Leisure brand identity, values, promise, vision, mission and persona.
Review and upgrade the Immunisation quality management system accreditation During 2016/17, Council will review current policies and procedures for the immunisation service and align them with requirements of the ISO 9001:2015 standards for Quality Management Systems.
Some local participants in the Maroondah Runner’s Club
A total of 134,812 golf rounds were played at Ringwood Golf and Dorset Did you know? Golf during 2015/16.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 49
BizHub at Realm opened in October 2015
A prosperous and learning community
Our future vision
In the year 2040, Maroondah will be a thriving centre of economic activity and opportunity within the eastern region where the sustainability and growth of local businesses is supported. All community members, groups, education providers and local businesses have access to a wide range of quality learning resources and facilities.
Our highlights
What we did this year What we plan to do next year
Some of the key highlights for the 2015/16 During 2016/17, Council will continue working year in working towards a prosperous and towards a prosperous and learning learning community included: community by: Opening of Realm, including the Centre Developing, promoting and expanding the for Regional Knowledge & Innovation BizHub Co-Working Space Commencing Biz Hub operations at Developing innovative, accessible and Realm responsive ways to transform the way Delivering Maroondah BizWeek 2015 training, events, new initiatives and Delivering the Regional Women on the Go programs are delivered to businesses Events through BizHub at Realm Delivering a range of small business Redevelopment works at Lipscombe training and networking sessions Kindergarten and Brentwood Park Completing the redevelopment of Kindergarten (stage 2) Greenwood Kindergarten
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Our feature project for 2015/16 Opening of Realm
Realm, Council’s new library, cultural, knowledge and innovation centre was officially opened in October 2015 by Maroondah Mayor, Councillor Tony Dib; Minister for Foreign Affairs, The Hon Julie Bishop MP; Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, The Hon James Merlino MP; and Mr Steven Leigh, Managing Director QIC Global Real Estate.
Constructed as part of QIC’s $700 million Eastland redevelopment, Realm is a first-of-its-kind facility incorporating a Council Service Centre, library, a Centre for Regional Knowledge and Innovation, a curated art space, BizHub, creative content studio, digital lab, meeting and presentation spaces, and café.
At the opening event, there was a hive of activity right across the 3400sqm centre, with children’s storytime sessions running in the library; Swinburne University presenting robots and STEM technologies in the presentation area; BizHub running a strategic foresight session; the Sound of Drawing taking place in Artspace; learning activities in the creative content studio; and a range of music and art performances.
Realm is strategically located within the new Ringwood Town Square, opposite Ringwood Station. Realm is fully accessible and incorporates a Changing Places restroom, which caters to the needs of people with severe disabilities and their carers, and a parent’s room.
Realm was funded by Council, $3 million from the Australian Government’s National Stronger Regions Fund towards the development of the Centre for Regional Knowledge and Innovation, and $900,000 from the Victorian Government’s Living Libraries and Community Support Grants funding programs. The project was made possible as a result of strong partnerships developed between Council, QIC, Eastern Regional Libraries and the Australian and Victorian Governments.
Council’s new library, cultural, knowledge and innovation centre was officially opened in October 2015
The upper two levels at Realm are wrapped in Diagrid, a panel system Did you know? made from glass-reinforced plastic, with diamond shapes varied to respond to natural light and the need for private areas.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 51 Our commitments during 2015/16 (Council Plan priority actions)
Action Title What was achieved Responsibility Status Complete Realm, Council’s new library, cultural, Planning and Achieved construction and knowledge and innovation centre Community commence commenced operations on 29 October operations at 2015.The $24 million state-of-the-art Realm, the new facility incorporates a library with areas to Ringwood engage children and young people; a Library, Learning comprehensive Council service centre, and Cultural ArtSpace, the Centre for Regional Centre, in late Knowledge and Innovation, BizHub 2015 business resource centre, a cafe, reading spaces, and a local history display. Over 150 community learning programs have been delivered at Realm since its opening, and visitation is on target to exceed 500,000 visits per annum.
Advocate for and The Victorian Government’s $66 million Planning and Achieved facilitate private upgrade of Ringwood Station and Bus Community sector investment Interchange was completed in January in the Ringwood 2016. The $700 million Stage 5 Metropolitan redevelopment of Eastland Shopping Activity Centre Centre was delivered, with Stage 5A opening to the public on 29 October 2015, and Stage 5B launched on 5 May 2016. Investment in the Ringwood MAC continued to grow - as at 30 June 2016, there are currently 47 completed, 2 under construction and 26 permit approved development projects in the Ringwood MAC representing 148,527sqm of floorspace and 1392 residential dwellings with a total value of 1,212.93million. Council is also continuing to work with the Metropolitan Planning Authority on the refresh of the Ringwood MAC Structure Plan with community engagement undertaken in May and June 2016.
Our strategic indicator results during 2015/16 (Council Plan indicators)
Actual Target Actual Actual Indicator/Measure 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 2013/14 Library membership as a proportion of the residential 24.2% 17% 17.0% 17.6% population (LGPRF) Participant satisfaction with business support workshops 96% 90% 97% 94% (SDP - Level of positive improvement in business skills) Increase in new business skills and networking achieved through Bizweek activities 93% 90% 93.6% 94% (B&D SDP - % of participants who learned new skills at Bizweek) Please note that a change of less than +/- 3% is not considered significant
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Our core services
Business Support (Business and Development) The business development function of Council incorporates business support, employment development, business investment and local business capacity building. Business support assists businesses by providing information, promotion, networking and training opportunities. The Business Support Team also focus on promoting an environment where employment opportunities are stimulated and more jobs are created through linkages and initiatives with key local stakeholders (employment providers, training organisations, businesses and community organisations). The Team also encourages and facilitates business investment with a primary focus on enhancing the capability of existing businesses to grow and expand locally.
Libraries (Revenue, Property and Customer Service) Maroondah City Council provides two library facilities – one in Ringwood and one in Croydon. The library service is delivered under a regional partnership model by Eastern Regional Libraries Corporation.
Major Projects (Business and Development) The major projects function delivers specialist planning, architectural, project management, urban design, communications and engagement services for the Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre. The function serves to steward responsible, sustainable, environmental and social improvements for this Metropolitan Activity Centre.
BizHub at Realm commenced operations in October 2015
The Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre is now home to major retailers including Bunnings, David Jones, Target, Big W, Kmart, Did you know? Woolworths, Coles; Myer and Aldi, along with international brands – Costco, Uniqlo and H&M.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 53 Our achievements
A prosperous community
Bizhub open for business In October 2015, Council opened the BizHub co-working space at Realm in Ringwood. The evolution of BizHub Programming through the first half of 2016 has seen at least 130 business training, mentoring, events, seminars and workshop opportunities. This figure has quadrupled the opportunities provided in 2014/2015. Our first BizHub Speaker Series breakfast was held in March 2016 with Alex Pirouz, a speaker on Linkedin and nominated as one of the top 100 most innovative companies in 2015. As part of Council’s innovative approach to supporting local businesses, the co-working space at Realm provides freelance or home-based businesses the chance to work in a designated and supported office space, network and collaborate with local business owners, and host larger meetings or training sessions in state-of-the-art meeting rooms. Members also have access to lockers, digital sound studio and computer room facilities along with mentoring, networking and social events. Membership levels include pay as you go, casual membership, or resident membership for a flat monthly fee. Since the commencement of financial members in February 2016 the e BizHub Co-work Space has 66 members. The BizHub Co-work members are establishing a community and the organic relationships between members have evolved into professional collaborations.
Redeveloped Eastland opens to the public The first stage of the redeveloped Eastland was unveiled in October 2015, with over 100 new stores opening their doors. The final stage of the $700 million redevelopment opened in May 2016 with a further 80 stores, connecting the new retail precinct with the existing shopping centre. The redevelopment by Queensland Investment Corporation (QIC), has expanded the Eastland shopping centre by 55 per cent to 350 shops, or more than 131,000 square metres placing it in the top 10 of Australian shopping centres by size. Council has worked closely with QIC and the State Government throughout the redevelopment to ensure a seamless link between the shopping centre, the new Town Square, Realm and the new Ringwood Station and Bus Interchange.
Council hosts Bizweek 2015 The 16th annual Maroondah Bizweek was held in late August and early September 2015 with over 660 participants attending a range of workshops and networking events. Australian Telstra Business Woman of the Year Pauline Nguyen, co-owner of one of Australia’s most awarded restaurants – Sydney’s Red Lantern, was guest speaker at the BizWeek Eastland Lunch. Young Australian Entrepreneur Brad Smith, founder of braaap Motorcycles Australia, was the guest speaker at BizWeek Business Breakfast. The Small Business Victoria Mentoring Bus was very popular with booked out sessions and a high number of walk ups. More than 20 different workshops were also offered covering a variety of topics including crowd funding, exporting, social media, crisis planning and entrepreneurship.
Local businesses connect over lunch During 2016, Council provided local businesses with an opportunity to connect and share ideas at series of monthly catch-up sessions with guest speakers, providing the opportunity to meet in a small informal gathering with like minded people. The ‘Let’s do Lunch’ sessions ran on the last Wednesday of each month and featured guest speakers presenting on a range of business related topics aimed at boosting business knowledge and skill sets.
The business expo for women on the go The seventh annual Women on the Go Expo was held in March 2016 acting as a showcase of what local business women have to offer as well as a business development and networking opportunity. Expo attendees and participants were encouraged to sign up for a free mentoring session in the Victorian Government Small Business Bus, and participate in a range of activities to promote work/life balance.
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Local employment and training delivered by IMPACT project The IMPACT Project successfully delivered employment, training and educational outcomes to vulnerable people. The fixed term project commenced working with people in Bayswater North and was later extended to be available to all residents within Maroondah experiencing barriers to accessing economic participation. This project concluded in December 2015 and was funded by the Department of Health and Human Services.
A learning community
Greenwood Park Kindergarten redeveloped The 70-year-old Greenwood Park Kindergarten was redeveloped in 2015/16 to respond to the significant population growth Ringwood has seen, and is expected to experience in the years to come. Opened in April 2016, the redevelopment included a new children’s room, new children’s bathroom, kitchen, storage room, office and parent meeting room. The $540,000 redevelopment was funded by $338,950 from the Victorian Government Early Learning Facility Upgrade Grant, a Council contribution of $150,000 and a Greenwood Kindergarten Committee contribution of $50,000.
Maroondah youth recognised in annual awards In April 2016, 61 nominees for the Maroondah Youth Awards 2016 were honoured at a function at Karralyka. The awards celebrated and recognised the commitments and achievements of young people aged between 12 and 25 in Maroondah. Awards included: The Arts Award for young people who excelled in expressing their creativity through visual, performing or media arts. The 2016 nominees spanned some amazing projects, with the audience given a sneak peak of their talents as part of various performances on the night. The Young Leader Award for demonstrating commitment and leadership. In 2016, examples included promoting cyber safety in schools; SRC’s and school captains; sporting teams and clubs; scout groups; young people sharing their skills through hands-on workshops; or providing general support and guidance of other local young people. The Personal Journey Award for demonstrating resilience and personal growth in the face of hardship.
A services expo featured at an ‘IMPACT Our Community Project’ family day held in Bayswater North
The Eastland Employment Project hit the ground running during Did you know? 2015/16 with 30 local jobs resulting from our engagement with MRP who were opening two stores in Melbourne, including one at Eastland.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 55 Building young leaders In May 2016, a group of 24 young people from secondary schools and VCAL programs across the municipality participated in Council’s Young Leaders program. The program covered a variety of topics over the five day period with a focus on self confidence, leadership and skill development. The aim of the program was to assist and encourage young people to participate more confidently and effectively in their school and community. A number of young people involved were able to use their skills to assist Council with consultation projects during 2015/16, including development of the Youth Plan 2017-2021.
Engaging youth and protecting wildlife A collaborative project between Council, the Croydon Men’s Shed and students from the Croydon Community School during 2015/16 helped to support wildlife conservation efforts in Maroondah. The project involved construction of 16 wooden nesting boxes for wildlife across a number of parks and reserves in Maroondah. The boxes were specially designed to cater for the types of hollow that the sugar glider possum requires as well as preventing the nesting box from being invaded by the introduced honey bee. The project helped to re-engage Maroondah students who may be at risk of disengaging from the education system, by providing personal growth and technical skills that will help set pathways for opportunities for employment, apprenticeships or further education and training.
Passing on language, culture and heritage In December 2015, Council donated two sets of books by acclaimed author Jeanette Rowe that have been translated into Hakha Chin. A project of the CALD Early Years Network group, these sets are now available for residents to borrow at Croydon Library, and to families at Croydon Central Kindergarten. Croydon Central Kindergarten was chosen as the home for the second set of books as it caters for the highest number of Burmese families in Maroondah. The books are aimed at enabling Burmese parents to read to their children in their native language, whilst also providing a strong connection back to their heritage and culture. Jeanette Rowe is the acclaimed author of the ‘Whose Books?’ collection that have become best sellers around the world. The books were first translated as part of the Supporting English as an Additional Language in the Early Years project by Yarra Ranges Council, funded by Best Start.
Our future directions
Develop the BizHub Co-Working Space and investigate opportunities for private investment to facilitate serviced office space. In early 2016/17, Council will embark on a review of the BizHub Co-work membership offerings and assessment of the type of businesses that are utilising the space to further develop our offering. Council will also continue to investigate private investment to facilitate serviced office space in conjunction with QIC and the prospective hotel operator within the Eastland complex.
Transform the way that training, events, new initiatives and programs are delivered to businesses through BizHub Through partnerships with Swinburne University and Eastern Regional Libraries, Council will endeavour to broaden the learning offers through webinars, on-line tutorials and business visits to appeal to a broader audience. Council is also trialling different session times for a range of activities, such as the popular evening mentoring sessions.
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Realm includes a library with dedicated spaces for different age groups and interests
The Realm library includes over 45,000 books and features a series of Did you know? acoustically treated pods allow for allow for small groups to meet without disturbing others.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 57
The ‘Lighting of the Christmas Tree’ was one of many community events that were held at Ringwood Town Square during the year.
A vibrant and culturally rich community
Our future vision
In the year 2040, Maroondah will be a creative cosmopolitan community recognised for its celebration and promotion of arts and culture. There will be a broad range of engaging entertainment options, diverse cultural activities and the creation and display of traditional and contemporary forms of art.
Our highlights
What we did this year What we plan to do next year
Some of the key highlights for the 2015/16 During 2016/17, Council will continue working year in working towards a vibrant and towards a vibrant and culturally rich culturally rich community included: community by: Opening of the new Ringwood Town Developing a heritage masterplan for Square Wyreena Community Arts Centre Engaging the community in the design of Commencing construction of the Croydon a new Croydon Town Centre Town Centre Completing an operational review and feasibility study of Karralyka Adopting a new Public Art Policy 2015 Opening of ArtSpace at Realm Hosting events such as the Maroondah Festival and Celebrate Maroondah
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Our feature project for 2015/16 Opening of Ringwood Town Square
Ringwood Town Square officially opened in October 2015 after many years of planning, negotiation and development work between Council, QIC and the Victorian Government.
As the cornerstone of the new Eastland redevelopment, Ringwood Town Square provides access to Realm and a range of restaurants and boutique retail stores.
At the southern end of Town Square is Realm and the Ringwood Station and Bus Interchange which interfaces seamlessly with the precinct.
Council has worked in partnership with Eastland to deliver a range of community and civic activations in the Ringwood Town Square precinct, including markets, live music performances, festivals and civic events.
Ringwood Town Square hosted a range of events during 2015/16 including a Christmas Tree lighting, acting as the televised live site for the Vision Australia Carols by Candlelight on Christmas Eve, Moonlit Markets during summer, Chinese New Year celebrations and weekly farmer’s markets.
Chinese New Year celebrations were held in Town Square in Ringwood during February 2016
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 59 Our commitments during 2015/16 (Council Plan priority actions)
Action Title What was achieved Responsibility Status
Engage the Preliminary community engagement Planning and Achieved community in the commenced for the design of a new Community design of a new Croydon Town Square. In February 2016, a Croydon Town place audit was undertaken to inform design principles around the future Town Square Square in Croydon. Numerous on site observations and conversations were conducted to capture a comprehensive understanding of how key stakeholders and the general community currently use and would like to use the area proposed for the new town square. Complete a Council completed a study during 2015/16 Operations, Achieved Karralyka aimed at determining the future Infrastructure operational review operational model for Karralyka and and Leisure and feasibility understanding issues with the existing building and site. The study also explored study potential options and costs for redevelopment and refurbishment. Concept designs and costings have been developed to address issues with the building and to cater for future demand. The report was presented to Council and a further study has commenced to provide a comparative analysis on the forecasted return on investment through different models and a business plan.
Our strategic indicator results during 2015/16 (Council Plan indicators) Actual Target Actual Actual Indicator/Measure 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 2013/14 Community satisfaction with arts and cultural facilities (CSS - Arts 77 74 73 74 centres and libraries) Participation in Maroondah 25,250 30,000 (est) 25,000 23,500 (est) Festival activities (est) Please note that a change of less than +/- 3% is not considered significant
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Our core services Arts and Cultural Development (Community Services) The Arts and Cultural Development team works strategically and in partnership across Council and the community to increase Maroondah’s arts and cultural vitality in line with the community’s vision. The Team actively advocates and contributes to cultural planning across Council as well as directly managing a range of programs, services, and facilities for all of the community to enjoy and participate in. These include: ArtSpace at Realm, Wyreena Community Arts Centre in Croydon, Maroondah Access Gallery at Maroondah Federation Estate, Maroondah Art Collection and Council’s Art in Public Places program. In addition to managing arts and cultural facilities and providing direct programming to the community, the team also promotes capacity building and skills development for a diverse range of artists, community and cultural groups in Maroondah, whilst increasing the awareness and appreciation of the value of the arts and creativity in Maroondah. Local artists and arts and cultural groups are supported through networking opportunities, workshops, the Arts and Cultural Grants program, and a range of other initiatives.
Karralyka (Leisure) Karralyka opened in 1980 and is a premier theatre and function centre in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs and the only facility of this size in Maroondah. The theatre has a seating capacity of 430 and generates positive demand as a ‘venue for hire’ as well as presenting its own programs to bring performing arts to the Maroondah community. Karralyka is also a flexible function venue with a total capacity for 550 seated guests. Karralyka has built a profitable function business, managing its food and beverage operations in-house. The kitchen facilities at Karralyka are also used to prepare food for Council’s Meals on Wheels service.
A theatre performance at Karralyka
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 61 Our achievements
Public art showcased at the redeveloped Ringwood Station As part of the Ringwood Station and Bus Interchange redevelopment, an eye-catching mural was developed. Located on the carpark ramp off Station Street on the south side of the station, the public art project is the result of collaboration between artist Carla Gottgens and participants in the EACH ArtScape program, which supports young people dealing with a range of mental health issues. Entitled ‘Out of the Wood’, the mural involved the group researching and developing elements for the mural and working together to create mythical creatures they felt were reflective of animals they admired, had characteristics they identified with, or they aspired to be. These creatures symbolised attributes such as courage, grace and beauty, and were presented on a background of natural patterns and geometric shapes. The end result reflects both the ability to overcome mental health issues as well as the transition of the Ringwood area from country to city. The project was developed as a partnership between Council, EACH, Public Transport Victoria, VicRoads and the John Holland Group.
Council adopts a new Public Art Policy 2015 In August 2015, a new Public Art Policy was adopted to help shape Council’s approach to public art. The Policy responds to the community’s expectations by ensuring that Council adopts a strategic and integrated approach to the planning and delivery of new public art projects and the management of existing public artwork. The development of the Policy responds to strong community support for public art as identified through community consultations for both Maroondah 2040: Our future together and the Arts and Cultural Development Strategy 2014-2018.
Internationally renowned Darnell Collection comes to Maroondah From September to November 2015, Maroondah Art Gallery showcased the Garden Party 1890 1950 exhibition incorporating historic fashion from the internationally renowned Darnell Collection. The exhibition, curated by Charlotte Smith, showcased the fashion that women wore to garden parties over the period from 1890-1950. The launch event at Maroondah Federation Estate involved a tour by the curator and music from the Pearly Shells Trio. Other events during the exhibition period included a millinery class, embroidery workshops, a gardening class, a Vintage Garden Party and the Garden Party Music Café at Wyreena Community Arts Centre.
Play and Invention in Art The Mind Craft: Play and Invention in Art exhibition featured at Artspace at Realm from January to March 2016. The interactive exhibition demonstrated the importance of play and enjoyment in both learning outcomes and general wellbeing. Visitors were able to experience interactive games and sculpture building, and view artworks by leading contemporary artists, such as Larissa Hjorth and Charlie Sofo. A range of complementary events were also held including: a Meet the Inventor presentation by Peter O’Shannessy, President of the Victorian Branch of the Inventors Association of Australia; a Lego workshop where participants could create their own action filled ‘Stop Motion’ animation; and an artist panel discussion which explored the role of play and invention in art making.
Go wild with words Local residents were invited to experience Text Me at Artspace at Realm during April 2016. Text Me was the first Arts Incubator at ArtsSpace at Realm featuring visual artist and writer in residence, Richard Holt. The Text Me arts incubation encouraged visitors to Realm to re- imagine, remake, and play with words and text in an interactive way. Highlights included “Wall of Words” and “Booth”, which invited visitors to write and share their own words; “Grid”, a four-screen projection with animated text; and “Reflection”, an installation that invites visitors to pause and look twice at the words around you. A number of free workshops were also held including: “Go Wild with Words” where primary-level readers explored words and made a ‘wild words’ video; and “Small stories/Big Ideas” which was a hands-on introduction to the world of microfiction. Arts incubators are a new Council initiative developed after extensive community consultation regarding the arts in Maroondah. Responding to the interest of local residents to actively engage with the creative process, arts incubators are multidimensional creations that evolve over time with the artist in residence.
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A Crafted History explores the stories of Maroondah Five contemporary female artists collaborated with local people and community groups as part of A Crafted History: People and Place exhibition in ArtSpace at Realm. This exhibition held during December 2015 and January 2015 showcased paintings, moving images, embroidery, quilting and sculpture. Highlights included a quilt by Anna Farago and Maroondah Handicrafts Inc from op shop denim and local plant dyes; Elvis Richardson’s sculpture created from discarded VHS tapes; a weaving project between Siri Hayes and students from the Rudolf Steiner School in Warranwood; Penelope Aitken’s hunt with Botanist Graeme Lorimer for the endangered Swamp Everlasting flower; and a creative painting workshop by Sophie Xeros- Constantinides with new mothers from Maroondah challenged by their birth experiences. The exhibition was complemented by a series of artist presentations, workshops and events.
Diverse program delivered at the Wyreena Arts Lounge During 2015/16, programming for the Wyreena Arts Lounge introduced workshops and classes into the space to create greater activation. Programming has been diversified and themed over the past twelve months. A book illustrators exhibition in October 2015 involved illustrators and authors reading their stories to children. Other exhibitions throughout the year have aimed to showcase a range of mediums by both emerging and established artists.
Public artwork captures the changing face of Ringwood In late 2015, major photographic work was installed at the lift foyers at Realm. The installation, by award-winning artist James Voller, captures the changing face of Ringwood. On each of Realm’s three levels, local residential architecture from different time periods is presented, including re-imagined streetscapes. A ‘lounge room’ setting was also installed in the goods lift.
Young people promote legacy of local veterans In April 2016, ArtSpace at Realm hosted a theatre production titled Carrying Home performed by local young people about the legacy of World War 1 stories unique to Ringwood and Croydon. Approximately 150 local people attended the five performances. This incorporated three school groups and two evenings with the general public.
The Mind Craft: Play and Invention in Art exhibition featured at Artspace at Realm in early 2016
The first show presented at Karralyka in 1980 was the Victorian State Did you know? Opera Stars in Concert presenting "Highlights from Opera" featuring Suzanne Steele.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 63 Local musicians feature at Realm series In February and March 2016, Council hosted a program of live music featuring local musicians playing a range of styles including folk, jazz, pop and rock. The first Live at Realm series took place in the Realm Activity Space and planning for a second series is currently underway.
Maroondah Festival attracts more than 30,000 people A large crowd attended the annual Maroondah Festival held at Croydon Town Park on 8 November 2015. The Hoyts Eastland stage showcased our local talent, including the award- winning Maroondah Brass as well as feature acts Miss Lizzy and the Night Owls, and The Baker Boys. The Ray White Community Expo showcased the services of more than 80 community and support groups, while sustainable living was on display in the Eastland Eco Village. The Box Hill Institute Youth Space provided a range of activities for young people and kids were entertained at the Maroondah Dental Care Kids Kingdom, which included a giant sandpit, face painting and a photo booth as well as children’s shows and karaoke. The Aurrum Cultural Area housed cooking demonstrations and culturally-themed activities as well as Council’s Café Consult, where community groups could speak with representatives from various Council service areas. The Mayoral Charity Raffle was drawn during the afternoon, and the lucky winner was on site to collect the first prize of a new Holden Barina from Heritage Holden in Lilydale.
Local residents honoured and welcomed at Australia Day 2016 Council hosted a free, family-friendly Australia Day event at Ringwood Lake Park on Australia Day 2016. The festivities began with a flag raising ceremony followed by the announcement of Maroondah's Australia Day Award recipients and an Australian Citizenship Ceremony. Awards were presented to Citizen of the Year – Ian Ware; Young Citizen of the Year – Ashley Cooke; and Community Event of the Year – Maroondah Schools Anzac Service 2015. Mr Mike Zafiropoulos, an Australia Day Ambassador, shared his experiences from more than 40 years involvement in community affairs in a wide range of fields, covering the arts, sport, health, welfare, local government and philanthropy. Other activities included a free sausage sizzle, The Magical Mountains Adventure Time Show and a special appearance by Hoot and Hootabelle.
Musicians perform during the Live at Realm series
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Outdoor movie screenings held to Celebrate Maroondah A series of Celebrate Maroondah events were held across the municipality during the summer months featuring movie screenings, free sausage sizzles and a range of children’s activities. These included screenings of the movie ‘Minions’ at Wyreena Community Arts Centre and ‘Inside Out’ at Glen Park in Bayswater North.
Our future directions
Develop a masterplan for Wyreena Community Arts Centre The Wyreena Heritage Masterplan project to be undertaken during 2016/17 will provide direction for the ongoing management and enhancement of the various facilities contained within the site, as well as providing direction for the enhancement and longevity of the adjacent open space areas. The project will include preliminary investigations, consultation with relevant key stakeholders, development of a holistic masterplan and an accompanying report that establishes the long term direction for the Wyreena facilities and open space assets. The masterplan and report will incorporate the current and future needs and service requirements of the community whilst also taking the cultural heritage significance of the Centre into account.
Commence construction of the new Croydon Town Centre Council undertook preliminary community engagement and consultation for the design of a new Croydon Town Square in 2015/16 which will link Main Street to the Croydon Transport Hub and create a focal point for the local community. Further community and stakeholder engagement will be undertaken during 2016/17 to finalise the design prior to construction works commencing.
Work with QIC to activate the Ringwood Town Square Council is continuing to work in partnership with QIC Eastland to develop a program of community and civic activations for Ringwood Town Square and the surrounding precinct. Proposed activations during 2016/17 include design markets, farmers markets, Christmas installation and carols, sporting events on the live screen, fitness classes, live music performance and food and wine events.
Develop and deliver the 'My Story / Our Story' project This project involves five local young people being mentored by renowned local photojournalist, Andy Drewitt. The participants will document and display the story of a member of Maroondah’s cultural and diverse community through photography and the creative arts. The artworks will be installed at Realm from October 2016 to February 2017. This project has been funded through the Victorian Multicultural Commission – Strengthening Multicultural Communities Fund.
Display from the ‘Text Me’ arts incubation at Realm
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 65
Testing water quality in a local wetland
A clean, green and sustainable community
Our future vision
In the year 2040, Maroondah will be a leafy green community with high levels of waste diversion and sustainable approaches to infrastructure development, urban design and management of natural resources. Our community is resilient and has the knowledge, capacity and resources to make sustainable lifestyle choices.
Our highlights
What we did this year What we plan to do next year
Some of the key highlights for the 2015/16 During 2016/17, Council will continue working year in working towards a clean, green and towards a clean, green and sustainable sustainable community included: community by: Developing an Open Space Strategy Commencing a municipality wide Continuing to rollout installation of vegetation review energy efficient street lights Continuing to rollout the installation of Developing a Maroondah Sustainability energy efficient street lights Strategy Participating in a joint procurement Completing a Water Sensitive City process to establish a long term contract Strategy for processing of garden organics Finalising a Carbon Neutral Strategy Reconstructing sportfields at Belmont Park 2014/15 -2020/21 in Croydon South and Springfield Reserve Completing construction and opening the in Croydon new playspace at Wyreena Community Developing a Climate Change and Risk Arts Centre Mitigation Strategy
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Our feature project for 2015/16 Construction of a new playspace at Wyreena Community Arts Centre
Wyreena Community Arts Centre has been further enhanced with the establishment of a new playspace. Opened in April 2016, the playspace was designed with a focus on the aspirations and needs of children, user groups and the wider community.
In designing the playspace, Council engaged with Grade 2 students at Ruskin Park Primary School; undertook a resident household survey; and held community consultation events.
The playspace incorporates traditional play equipment with exploratory and interactive art elements and art pieces, which encourage children to explore art, movement, sound and touch while they play.
As part of the playspace, James Cattell, an artist and sculptor, developed several spectacular and intricate log carvings featuring native animals.
He also created an impressive cubby structure from steel, that resembles a giant bird’s nest, as well as several steel birds and a telescope.
In addition, Council engaged sound sculptor Herbert Jercher to create interesting and interactive sound objects, which complement James’ work and the natural setting of the playspace. New paths have been built around the area along with additional planting.
The new playspace at Wyreena Community Arts Centre
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 67 Our commitments during 2015/16 (Council Plan actions)
Action Title What was achieved Responsibility Status Develop a A new Maroondah Open Space Strategy Operations, Achieved Maroondah Open and Policy was prepared and placed on Infrastructure Space Strategy public exhibition. The draft Policy outlined and Leisure 2016-2021 15 policy positions to guide the development and use of public Council-run open space in Maroondah. It positions how open space is managed, developed, protected and promoted. The draft Strategy has six main directions that align with the Maroondah 2040 Community Vision. These are: valuing open space; creating new forms of open space; safe, healthy and active people and space; well designed and maintained spaces; accessible and connected spaces; and greening the City's spaces. The Strategy and Policy will be formally considered by Council in August 2016. Continue to rollout During 2015/16, this project resulted in 858 Planning and Achieved the installation of street lights on residential streets being Community energy efficient changed from mercury vapour to energy streetlights across efficient LEDs. This brings the total number of street lights changed in the City of Maroondah Maroondah to 1,862 and completes one- third of the project. The streetlights changed over during 2015/16 are expected to result in greenhouse gas savings of 368 tonnes of carbon dioxide. Complete A new Maroondah Sustainability Strategy Planning and Achieved development of the was prepared during 2015/16 aimed at Community Maroondah progressing towards the clean, green and Sustainability sustainable vision in Maroondah 2040: Our future together. Its central aspiration is to Strategy 2016 lay solid foundations for progress towards 2020 that Vision by aligning Council’s culture over the next four years to one where sustainability is integral to the organisation’s business. Council plans to lead the way to greater sustainability by example and through engagement, partnerships and communication with the broader community, which is the key to achieving the Vision. Development of the Strategy involved extensive background research along with engagement with the community and a range of stakeholder groups, in particular, the Maroondah Environment Advisory Committee. The Strategy was placed on public exhibition in June 2016 and will be formally considered by Council for adoption in July 2016.
68 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
Our strategic indicator results during 2015/16 (Council Plan indicators) Actual Target Actual Actual Indicator/Measure 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 2013/14 Annual tree planting within Maroondah 23,000 20,000 33,200 30,400 (Bushland, street and parks – trees only) Recycling diversion rate from landfill 53.9% 55% 55.3% 56.2% (LGPRF) Please note that a change of less than +/- 3% is not considered significant
Our core services
Bushland and Weed Management (Operations) This function maintains over 50 bushland reserves, which involves proactively supporting biodiversity and maintaining appropriate fire breaks.
Environmental Planning (Planning, Health and Local Laws) Residential and commercial land uses within Maroondah are set in a unique urban environment with high levels of amenity protected by various landscape and environmental controls as set out in the Maroondah Planning Scheme. The environmental planning function seeks to ensure that the landscape and environmental controls within the Scheme are considered in town planning and land use planning activities.
Open Space Planning (Assets) This function provides advice on strategic direction, policy development and capital works in relation to public open spaces. Specifically the function includes: planning for the provision of walkways, cycling tracks and bridges through open space; planning and provision of playgrounds and sporting infrastructure; provision of signage and infrastructure; the provision of public toilets; and landscaping in open space areas.
Sustainability Planning (Integrated Planning) This team guides the integration of sustainability into Council's and the community’s activities and operations. Council takes an holistic and strategic approach to sustainability focusing on reducing its environmental footprint, helping the community adapt to a changing climate, and enhancing the quality and enjoyment of the local environment.
Tree and Park Maintenance (Operations) The team maintains Council managed parks and gardens including proactive and reactive maintenance of landscaped areas, grass mowing, programmed tree planting in streets and reserves, and power line clearance management.
Waste Management (Finance and Governance) The team provides residential and commercial waste services to the Maroondah community, including public recycling bins, street litter bins, parks and reserves bins and Council facility bins. The Team manages the contracts for kerbside collection, receipt and sorting, green organics, land fill supply and hard waste collection. Services also include: on-call hard waste collection, a schools and community waste education program and strategic planning to meet future waste management needs.
Council in conjunction with various community groups planted 25,000 Did you know? indigenous plants in Maroondah’s bushland reserves during 2015/16.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 69 Achievements
A clean community
Waste education supports a clean Taralla Creek Council commenced a new waste education initiative at Dorset Recreation Reserve during 2015/16 aimed at encouraging people to dispose of waste wisely, particularly dog waste. New bins and signage were installed around Dorset Recreation Reserve, within the Tarralla Creek catchment, to reduce the litter entering the stormwater system. Direct engagement with the community was also a key focus of the project to encourage appropriate waste disposal and the need to keep dogs on leash. Dog owners were provided with “Walkies” maps to identify off leash areas as well as leads and dog litter bags. The program follows the success of the My Mullum Mullum Creek project which resulted in a s reduction in waste in the waterway. This project was funded through the Victorian Government’s Litter Hotspots Program.
Implement Domestic Wastewater Management Strategies Over the past 12 months, Council has undertaken significant work to improve data management and mapping systems. Meetings have also commenced with water authorities to discuss community sewerage planning and associated prioritisation.
A green community
Kids run wild at Warrien Reserve Council hosted a free Wild Time event at Warrien Reserve inspired by the ‘The Wild Network’ phenomenon which encourages free-roaming and outdoor play for 21st century children. “The Wild Network arose out of the success of the documentary, Project Wild Thing, which was a humorous, yet candid, look at how disconnected young children have become from nature in the age of mobile phones and video games. The Wild Time event included a free sausage sizzle along with free activities for children to encourage them to have fun in the outdoors. Warrien Reserve includes a nature trail, open park areas, a hammock and a range of equipment for kids to climb, rock, spin and explore. Over 350 local people attended the event.
Street trees registered Over recent years, Council has been working towards the completion of a street tree asset register. At present there are approximately 74,000 trees in Maroondah’s streets with an estimated amenity value of $277 million. Once all data is collated, the street tree asset register will be established, enabling all future inspections and maintenance to be recorded against the individual tree asset. This program is now in its final stages with approximately 90% of the municipality surveyed. It is anticipated that the remaining 10% of the municipality will be completed in 2016/17.
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Water bodies rehabilitated at local reserves Council has undertaken the rehabilitation of water bodies at McAlpin Reserve and Monterey Bush Park in Ringwood North during 2015/16. These works consisted of the removal of 500 cubic metres of silt from McAlpin Reserve ponds and 3000 cubic metres of silt at Monterey Bush Park dam. Cost savings from these works have also enabled waterway enhancements to be undertaken at Croydon Park. Waterway rehabilitation works are proposed to be undertaken at Yanggai Barring Reserve during 2016/17.
A sustainable community
EAGA program wins United Nations award During 2015/16, the Eastern Alliance for Greenhouse Action (EAGA) was announced as the winner of the 2016 United Nations Association of Australia World Environment Day Award for the Biodiversity Monitoring on Melbourne’s East project (Local Government Category). The project involved the development and trial of a framework for monitoring indicators of biodiversity health in the context of a changing climate. EAGA also led Local Government’s response to a regulatory review for electricity pricing, generating $370,000 in savings across the EAGA region over the next five years and $22 million across Victoria. The Alliance led a successful grant application on behalf of 25 municipalities to secure $760,000 in funding to deliver a solar program for vulnerable and low income households. A total of 13 formal advocacy submissions were also provided by the Alliance to national, state and sector-based consultations. EAGA is a formal collaboration of seven Councils in Melbourne’s east, working together on regional programs that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and facilitate regional adaptation. Maroondah City Council is the lead partner and hosts the coordinator position for the Alliance.
A strategy to protect one of our most precious assets A new Water Sensitive City Strategy was adopted by Council in September 2015 detailing the need to improve the way we manage wastewater now to ensure future generations can benefit from secure water supplies. Water management has been traditionally split into stormwater or sewerage management, however, significant population growth and climate change has resulted in a need to adopt a more integrated and water sensitive approach. The key aim of the Strategy is to help Council develop an integrated water management culture across the municipality. In preparing this strategy, Council received support from industry bodies including Melbourne and Yarra Valley Water, and the Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning. The Strategy will be implemented by Council and its partners over a 10 year period.
A new plan to reduce Council’s carbon footprint In July 2015, Council adopted the Carbon Neutral Strategy and Action Plan 2014/15-2020/21 which provides a roadmap for Council to work towards the achievement of carbon neutrality for its corporate greenhouse gas emissions. Accordingly, Council will implement significant greenhouse gas reduction projects and process changes, build knowledge, and utilise alternative funding models such as a Revolving Energy Fund. This Fund takes savings from energy reduction projects and uses them to implement additional actions that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Strategy will be reviewed annually as actions are progressed and more knowledge is gained.
An ecological burn undertaken in Bungalook Conservation Reserve Council and the Country Fire Authority (CFA) undertook an ecological and fuel reduction burn in the eastern block of Bungalook Conservation Reserve during April 2016. The burn was used to maintain native ecosystems, reduce fuel loads and regenerate indigenous plant species.
Rare plant program commenced Council has commenced a program with the local community nurseries to grow rare indigenous plants or plants with declining populations. The program will see these rare species planted in local bushland reserves in a bid to boost promote growth of these species.
Council planted 3,000 street trees and 20,000 trees and shrubs in Did you know? parks and reserves throughout the 2015/16 financial year.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 71 Council hosts Maroondah Earth Hour event In partnership with Transition Towns Maroondah, Council hosted an Earth Hour event in March 2016 at Maroondah Federation Estate. The event was aimed at encouraging community support for environmental sustainability and centred on the campaign to switch off of all non essential power for one hour. The event included Courtyard Conversations where participants were able to discuss gardening with representatives from Biodynamics Community Garden, Candlebark Nursery, CRISP Nursery, Environment Victoria, Mary’s Food is Free and Transition Towns Maroondah. Participants were also able to learn about local food growing and preserving, our local reserves, and the local Energy Trading System. Other activities included a children’s drawing class with Myke Mollard – a children’s book author and illustrator, a local food swap and an interactive ephemeral art project.
Our challenges
Extreme weather patterns Extended dry periods over summer and wet periods over winter has continued to impact severely on the condition of local sporting fields, which in turn reduces their capacity and availability for user groups. Extreme weather patterns have impacted on bushland areas with vegetation and plant species declining and an extended fire season.
Continued loss of canopy trees within bushland reserves Recent years have seen a continued loss of canopy trees in Council’s bushland reserves. Whilst investigations continue, the reason for their decline have not yet been determined.
Our future directions
Commence a municipal wide vegetation review This project will identify the value of vegetation to the community and the factors that contribute to its value. It will evaluate and assess vegetation for its natural and cultural value and then look at options of how to protect significant vegetation through the Maroondah Planning Scheme.
Establish a new long term contract for processing of garden organics In conjunction with four other municipalities in the region, Council has commenced a joint procurement process to establish a long term contract for the processing of garden organics. The tender was advertised in 2015/16 and it is hoped that the contract will be let in 2016/17.
Sporting ground reconstruction works at Belmont Reserve and Springfield Reserve Council will undertake reconstruction works at Belmont Reserve in Croydon South and Springfield Reserve in Croydon during 2016/17. The works will include installation of sub surface drainage and irrigation systems, the re-grading of ground surface, the installation of a sand blanket to aid drainage and the installation of new turf to reduce water consumption.
Complete street tree database Council will complete the street tree database by the end of 2016/17 providing information on approximately 74,000 street trees across Maroondah. The next stage of the program will include the inspection of trees in and around high use areas such as netball courts and kindergartens.
Complete development of a Climate Risk and Adaption Strategy Council commenced development of this Strategy during the 2015/16 financial year. A Regional Climate Change Risk Assessment was prepared during 2015 by the Eastern Alliance for Greenhouse Action. During 2015/16, an issues and options paper will be prepared on the risks and implications for Council and the local community and how we might respond to the challenges of a changing climate in our service delivery. The views of the Maroondah community will be sought in preparing the key directions and priority actions for the Strategy. It is expected that this Strategy will be finalised by mid 2017.
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Undertake the Staley Gardens revitalisation project Council commenced community engagement and consultation for this revitalisation project 2015/16, incorporating a place audit which identified key design principles and future opportunities. Further engagement will be undertaken in 2016/17 ahead of construction commencing. As an interim measure, additional shelter has been constructed within the western section of the Gardens to support recreational activity aligned with the skate facilities.
Conduct Dorset Recreation Reserve Project - Impact on Tarralla Creek In 2016/2017, Council will continue this waste prevention project with a focus on dog litter along the Tarralla Creek. The project is trying to achieve a decrease in dog litter left at the park and an increase in responsible disposal of dog litter. Council will install additional bins at locations along the trail within the reserve. Educational engagement with dog walkers by Local Laws officers will also continue throughout the campaign. Assessments will then be carried out during and at the end of the program to ascertain what results were achieved.
Tree planting in local parks and reserves
Maroondah is considered the third most treed municipality in suburban Did you know? Melbourne and has the most street trees per household.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 73
The upgrade of Ringwood Station and Bus Interchange was completed in early 2016
An accessible and connected community
Our future vision
In the year 2040, Maroondah will be an accessible community for all ages and abilities with walkable neighbourhoods, effective on and off-road transport networks and access to a range of sustainable transport options.
Our highlights
What we did this year What we plan to do next year
Some of the key highlights for the 2015/16 year in During 2016/17, Council will continue working towards an accessible and connected working towards an accessible and community included: connected community by: Accelerating the footpath construction Working in partnership to develop improvement and disability footpath access the detailed design for the programs Heatherdale Station Level Commencing traffic signalisation works at the Crossing Removal Project. intersection of Bedford Road and Great Ryrie Street Commencing a $3m upgrade of in Ringwood Lincoln Road east of Dorset Road Undertaking a range of major road improvements, in Croydon including works at the intersection of Lincoln and Croydon Roads in Croydon Working with the State Government to upgrade the Ringwood Station and Bus Interchange Completion of Marveloo 2 Opening of Changing Places facilities at Realm and Eastland
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Our feature project for 2015/16 Maroondah’s Changing Places recognised in State Budget
In response to Council’s leadership and advocacy efforts, funding was included in the 2016/17 Victorian Government budget to rollout Changing Places facilities across Victoria.
The budget allocation references rolling out 15 facilities across the state, in addition to those that have already been installed at popular destinations including Melbourne Zoo and the MCG.
The multi-million dollar funding allocation is testament to the positive impact the change rooms have on those living with disabilities and their carers.
Changing Places toilets are different to standard accessible toilets with extra features to meet the needs of people with a severe or profound disability. Each Changing Places toilet provides a safe, clean and more spacious environment, a height adjustable full-sized changing bench and a tracking hoist system.
Maroondah City Council launched the first Changing Places facility in Australia in Ringwood Lake Park during 2013. Another Changing Places facility was opened at Realm in 2015 whilst the redeveloped Eastland shopping centre also has two Changing Places facilities.
The first Changing Places facility opened in Australia is located at Ringwood Lake Park
The Changing Places at Ringwood Lake Park was named Australia’s Did you know? Best Bathroom Facility by Total Facilities Australia in April 2016.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 75 Our commitments during 2015/16 (Council Plan priority actions)
Action Title What was achieved Responsibility Status
Accelerate the During 2015/16, Council accelerated its Operations, Achieved footpath footpath construction program with an Infrastructure construction additional budget allocation. Programmed and Leisure improvement works commenced in July 2015 and will continue until June 2017. Works were program completed along sections of Mt Dandenong Road, Warrien Road, Bayswater Road, Kalinda Road, Notlen Street and Market Street.
Undertake traffic During 2015/16, Council commenced Operations, Commenced signalisation works to install traffic signals at the Infrastructure works at the intersection of Bedford Road and Great and Leisure intersection of Ryrie Street in Ringwood to improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety. When Bedford Road completed, key features of the works will and Great Ryrie include installation of traffic signals at the Street intersection, a new signalised pedestrian crossing on Bedford Road near Rosewarne Lane and linkage with the Bedford Road level crossing, pedestrian footpath and pram crossing construction, removal of the existing pedestrian refuge on Bedford Road near Rosewarne Lane, street light upgrades, asphalt overlay and line marking works. Completion of the works is contingent on the finalisation of level crossing removal works at Mountain Highway and Scoresby Road in Bayswater scheduled for December 2016. The $1 million project was fully funded by the Australian Government under the Commonwealth Infrastructure Investment Program.
Accelerate the The three year footpath construction Operations, Achieved disability improvement program has been Infrastructure footpath access accelerated to a two year program of and Leisure improvement works. This has also included an acceleration of the disability footpath program access component of the overall footpath construction program, with an additional budget allocation. Programmed works commenced in July 2015 and will continue until June 2017.
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Our strategic indicator results during 2015/16 (Council Plan indicators) Actual Target Actual Actual Indicator/Measure 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 2013/14 Total length of overlay works undertaken as part of the road asset enhancement program 0.7% 1% 1.1% 0.4% (LGPRF - Proportion of sealed roads below the set intervention level) Number of different streets where works are undertaken as part of the road asset enhancement program 1,639 1,600 7,846 5,844 (LGPRF - Square metres of sealed local roads reconstructed) Please note that a change of +/- 3% is generally not considered significant
Our core services Construction Maintenance (Operations) This Team provides pro-active and reactive maintenance of Council’s infrastructure assets including roads, footpaths and drains. Construction maintenance provides pro-active cleaning of all drainage pits within road reserves and programmed street sweeping. The team also provide all logistical and fleet maintenance services for Council.
Traffic Engineering (Engineering and Building Services) This Team provides professional advice to Council service areas and external stakeholders regarding traffic engineering, transportation infrastructure, and strategic traffic and transportation matters including local roads, bike paths and footpaths.
Sustainable Transport Planning (Integrated Planning) This function assists with the development and implementation of strategic transport policies and strategy with a focus on sustainable transport services and the travel needs of the community.
Our achievements
An accessible community
Marveloo 2 open for business Following the award winning success of Marveloo, Council’s mobile accessible restroom facility, a second Marveloo facility was completed during 2015/16. This new facility will be made available to the community from July 2016. The original Marveloo was made available for commercial hire for the first time in 2015/16 which will see the facility feature at the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix at Phillip Island during October 2016 and the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park during March 2017.
Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) improvements Key DDA improvement works during 2015/16 included: Croydon Civic – Introduction of new wide raised pedestrian crossing (also known as wombat crossing) East Ringwood IGA – Disabled parking and access improvements Harry Lacey Lane – General accessibility improvements Lipscombe Park – Construction of disabled parking spaces
A number of projects were also designed for implementation in 2016/17. In 2015/16, Council undertook 60 traffic count exercises and two Did you know? parking/pedestrian surveys
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 77 A connected community
Opening of Ringwood Station and Bus Interchange In February 2016, the Ringwood Station and Bus Interchange redevelopment was officially launched by the Victorian Government with a community celebration in the station forecourt. The vibrant new station precinct provides a seamless interchange and is a safer, more accessible and attractive place for people to live, work and visit. New street lighting, new taxi and other special purpose parking bays, and improvements to the road environment have resulted from the project. A new cafe will soon be established in the heritage listed Signal Box building, adding to the activation of the precinct. Throughout the project, Council successfully advocated for the implementation of good design principles and the inclusion of accessible infrastructure such as lifts, escalators, ramps and stairs. The $66 million upgrade is fully integrated with the new Town Square, Realm and Eastland precincts. This redevelopment helps to ensure that Ringwood is an easily accessible destination for regional business, commercial, retail, social and cultural activities.
Commencement of the Heatherdale Road Level Crossing Removal Project Council is working closely with the Victorian Government’s Level Crossing Removal Authority to remove the Heatherdale Road level crossing. The works commenced in early 2016 and will involve lowering the rail line below Heatherdale Road and rebuilding Heatherdale Station on the east side of Heatherdale Road, within the City of Maroondah. The new station will be closer to existing commuter car parks and will be accessible via lifts, ramps and stairs. Accessibility will also be improved by constructing a new walking and cycling path leading directly to the station. To date much of the work undertaken has been hidden below ground level. Major construction works are expected to commence in July 2016.
Major road improvements works at the intersection of Lincoln and Croydon Roads During 2015/16, Council undertook improvement works at the intersection of Lincoln and Croydon Roads to improve road conditions. These works include the creation of a new left turn slip lane from Lincoln Road southbound onto Croydon Road, footpath improvements, traffic signal alterations, lighting upgrades and asphalt resurfacing in Lincoln Road.
Major road improvement works at Civic Square in Croydon Council undertook improvement works at Civic Square in Croydon during 2015 to improve pedestrian safety. The works, adjacent to the Civic Offices, involved: widening the footpath along the western side of the road, reconstructing kerb and channel, constructing a raised pedestrian crossing and new line marking.
Improvements at local blackspot intersection In 2015, Council received Federal Blackspot funding aimed at improving pedestrian and vehicle safety at two sites by reducing vehicle speeds and maintaining lane discipline. A new roundabout was constructed at the intersection of Mullum Mullum Road and Oban Road in Ringwood to improve vehicle, pedestrian and bicycle safety and operation. Safety and functional improvement works were also completed at the existing roundabout at Wonga Road and Oban Road in Ringwood. In addition to the road modifications and improvements, both of these projects included lighting, signage and line marking upgrades.
Blackspot improvement works in Oban Road in Ringwood
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Local road improvements works Key local road improvement works during 2015/16 included: Evelyn Road, Ringwood North – Installation of speed cushions and parking lanes French Street and Carroll Avenue, Croydon - Road and drainage improvement works Donald Street, Croydon – Introduction of raised pavements Stirling Road, Croydon – Extension of traffic island Heathmont Shopping Centre – Improvements to the service road Coolstore Road, Croydon – Improvements to pedestrian refuges and additional line-marking Sherbrook Avenue, Ringwood – Modifications to enable improved pedestrian and bike access to the EastLink Trail New Street and Molan Street in Ringwood – Improvements to traffic management
Active Travel Plan launched at Great Ryrie Primary School Great Ryrie Primary School launched an Active Travel Plan in March 2016 as part of a community development grant awarded by Council. By becoming an Active Travel School, students and their families are now encouraged to walk, ride or scoot to school, with the aim of improving their physical and mental wellbeing, social connectedness and creating more walkable neighbourhoods. This helps to address traffic congestion and parking issues.
Walking to school to improve wellbeing Students and families from 16 local primary schools participated in Council’s Walk to School activities during October 2015. The event was held as part of an annual VicHealth initiative to encourage children and their families to walk to school regularly. The activities aim to encourage communication between children and their school crossing supervisor, increase understanding of safe crossing practices, improve children’s knowledge of their local area and create interpersonal connections. Students were also able to see how far they have travelled and compare their school’s total distance walked to other schools across the state.
Local Ride2Work Day 2015 event held in Heathmont Council supported National Ride2Work Day in October 2015. A free community breakfast for riders was held at HE Parker Reserve in Heathmont providing an opportunity for new riders to meet other riders and those with more experience. Ride2Work is Australia’s largest ride to work program and is designed to transition people from contemplating riding to work to taking action and establishing the habit of riding their bike.
Our future directions
Commence a $3m upgrade of Lincoln Road east of Dorset Road As part of the federally funded Roads to Recovery program, Council will commence the detailed design and rehabilitation works of Lincoln Road between Dorset Road and Hull Road in Croydon. These works will include the rehabilitation of the road pavement, construction of on-road bicycle lanes; protection of existing landscape areas; construction of missing sections of footpath; street lighting upgrades; drainage upgrades; and flood mitigation works, including the construction of a retarding basin in Brentwood Park.
Develop a Parking Strategy for Maroondah In 2016/17, Council will commence development of a new Parking Strategy aimed at ensuring consistency in considering parking matters and applying new restrictions / parking permits throughout the municipality.
Finalise the implementation of actions arising from the Croydon Parking Strategy During 2016/17, Council will undertake a review of parking for the Croydon Civic precinct including Aquahub and Croydon Civic Offices and Croydon Library.
Ringwood Station is one of Melbourne's busiest public transport interchanges with over 5,000 people using the station on an average Did you know? weekday, and over 26% of these people using buses to access the station.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 79 Water sensitive urban design and flood mitigation works were recently completed at Dromsally Reserve in Warranwood
An attractive, thriving and well built community
Our future vision
In the year 2040, Maroondah will be an attractive community with high quality urban form and infrastructure that meets the needs and aspirations of all ages and abilities. A diverse range of housing options are available and thriving activity centres provide a broad range of facilities and services to meet community needs. The character of local neighbourhoods continues to be maintained while also accommodating population growth.
Our highlights
What we did this year What we plan to do next year
Some of the key highlights for the 2015/16 During 2016/17, Council will continue working year in working towards an attractive, thriving towards an attractive, thriving and well built and well built community included: community by: Overseeing the completion of construction Implementing Council's 2016/17 and opening of the Ringwood Town Square community facilities improvement Continuing flood mitigation works in the program Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre and Completing development of the Croydon in the Power Street Drainage Catchment Civic Masterplan Commencing implementation of a strategy Continuing the upgrade of drainage in the to protect residential and commercial Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre, properties from flooding. including the Acacia Court and Larissa Completing development of the Avenue catchments Maroondah Housing Strategy Commencing implementation of the Maroondah Housing Strategy
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Our feature project for 2015/16 Development of the Maroondah Housing Strategy 2016
Council finalised a new Maroondah Housing Strategy in June 2016. The Strategy sets out a vision and strategic framework for housing in Maroondah. The Strategy will assist Council to continue enhancing the liveability of our community, and provide for the City of Maroondah’s current and future housing needs.
The Strategy is the culmination of an extensive community engagement and consultation program, supported by a suite of background research papers and technical reports. The document updates the former 1997 Maroondah Housing Strategy and responds to the latest social, economic and environmental trends and aspirations of the community.
All of the community and stakeholder aspirations pointed to liveability being the most important factor in housing in Maroondah. The research emphasises the challenges of growth impacting on our ability to maintain and enhance this liveability, with a focus on creating places that are diverse, comfortable, accessible and affordable and have a reduced environmental footprint.
The Strategy identifies five focus areas to address the key housing issues of affordability, diversity and infrastructure in Maroondah. These are: responding to social, economic and demographic change; managing growth and changing housing needs; protecting and enhancing our environment and neighbourhoods; improving affordability, accessibility and social housing opportunities; and building on and improving the planning framework.
The Strategy outlines key priority actions to be undertaken to deliver on the overall vision for housing in Maroondah. It is anticipated that additional priority actions and projects may also be identified over time which will support this vision and the changing needs of the Maroondah community.
A planning scheme amendment is now being prepared to introduce the Strategy, along with the vision and community outcomes of Maroondah 2040: Our future together, into the Maroondah Planning Scheme.
The Maroondah Housing Strategy provides a framework to meet current and future housing needs
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 81 Our commitments during 2015/16 (Council Plan priority actions)
Action Title What was achieved Responsibility Status
Oversee the The new Ringwood Town Square was Planning and Achieved completion of completed and opened to the community Community construction and on 29 October 2015. The new Town opening of the Square aims to provide a central active community meeting place for people to Ringwood Town gather, enjoy and celebrate. Some of the Centre high profile restaurant tenants in the precinct include Jimmy Grants, HuxtaBurger, Hunter and Barrel, and Paco Taco’s.
During November and December 2015, a weekly twilight market was held in the Town Square forecourt combining a mix of independent designer homewares, art, fashion, accessories, boutique craft, food and wine products. The 'Lighting of the Christmas Tree' event in early December was also highly successful. The Town Square was also the official live broadcast site for the Vision Australia Carols by Candlelight held on Christmas Eve with live stream of the show on the big screen.
Commence flood Further flood mitigation works were Operations, Achieved mitigation works in undertaken during 2016 in the Acacia Infrastructure the Ringwood Drainage Catchment to prevent possible and Leisure Metropolitan future flooding issues. The drainage catchment forms part of the North West Activity Centre Residential Precinct in the Ringwood and in the Power Metropolitan Activity Centre which has Street Drainage seen significant expansion and Catchment development in recent years. Fully funded by Council, the project involved developing a new water sensitive urban design rain garden aimed at removing rubbish, sediment and treating water before it reaches the Mullum Mullum Creek. Once works in the catchment are completed, the new system will cater for a 1 in 100 year storm and reduce pressure on existing drainage infrastructure. A further stage of the project will commence in 2016/17 involving the construction of a new drain between Nelson and Bourke Streets. A public art project will also be included to visually connect the creek, streetscape works and drainage upgrades.
Further flood mitigation works in the Power Street drainage catchment in Croydon North were also undertaken during 2015/16. These works involved the construction of a new drain along the Melbourne Water easement from Knee Lane through to Yarra Road.
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Action Title What was achieved Responsibility Status Develop and Council’s existing flood modelling Operations, Achieved commence provides information that is currently Infrastructure implementation of being applied through a report and and Leisure a strategy to consent process, as well as existing town planning processes. The next stage is to protect residential implement this information into a Special and commercial Building Overlay (SBO) as part of a floor levels from planning scheme amendment. It is flooding anticipated that the SBO planning scheme amendment will take a number of years to complete and implement.
Complete Over the past two years, Council has Planning and Achieved development of developed a new housing strategy to Community the Maroondah establish future policy directions and Housing Strategy guide future residential development. The process of developing this Strategy involved developing a holistic body of background research along with considerable engagement with the community and key stakeholders. The Strategy sets out a vision for housing in Maroondah, addresses issues facing the municipality and sets out key directions and priority actions to address these challenges. The Strategy was formally adopted by Council in June 2016.
The Ringwood Town Square was opened in October 2015
Council certified the completion of 294 new subdivisions during Did you know? 2015/16, a 16% increase compared with the previous financial year
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 83 Our strategic indicator results during 2015/16 (Council Plan indicators) Actual Target Actual Actual Indicator/Measure 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 2013/14 Council’s infrastructure renewal/maintenance ratio 107% 97% 130% 113% (Renewal and maintenance gap) Percentage of annual Capital 100% 100% 100% 100% Works budget expended Proportion of planning applications assessed within 84% 80% 90% 87% statutory timeframes (LGPRF) Total value of building approvals (residential, commercial and $349,503 $300,000 $326,908 $643,816 industrial) Community satisfaction with general town planning policy 58 58 58 58 (CSS) Community satisfaction with Council’s planning and building 55 56 55 56 permits process (CSS) Please note that a change of less than +/- 3% is not considered significant
A new stormwater drain was constructed during 2015/16 from Knee Lane through to Yarra Road in Croydon North
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Our core services
Asset Management (Assets) The team is responsible for the strategic long term management of all of Council’s community assets, and provides specialist advice and support to facilitate improved asset management capabilities for the organisation.
Building Services (Engineering and Building Services) This function provides a number of services that are dictated by statutory and legislative requirements. Although this limits the ability to introduce new initiatives, it requires work practices and services/service levels to be responsive to legislative changes and community expectations. The team also ensures the compliance of existing and proposed buildings with the Building Act and regulations, and also provides advice on variations to building regulations and swimming pool/spa safety barriers.
Engineering Services (Engineering and Building Services) The team provides engineering technical expertise in areas of traffic and transportation planning, drainage investigation and strategy, engineering development approvals, and project management. Council manages assets such as roads, footpaths, drainage, bicycle paths, and buildings which provide important links to services and enhance community wellbeing.
Facilities (Assets) The team is responsible for the overall management of Council’s community facility assets, and provides specialist advice and support in relation to all major building construction works along with all associated reactive and proactive maintenance.
Statutory Planning (Planning, Health and Local Laws) Council has the responsibility for delivering town planning land use and development advice and assessments to a diverse community of over 112,000 residents and over 9,000 businesses. These residential and commercial land uses are set in a unique urban environment with high levels of amenity protected by various landscape and environmental controls as set out in the Maroondah Planning Scheme. The role of statutory planning is to manage and consult with the community on change and ensure that such changes are to the social, environmental and economic betterment of the City.
Strategic Planning (Integrated Planning) This team works with the community and Council to maintain a Planning Scheme that reflects the Maroondah vision to encourage, develop and manage urban design, landscapes, buildings and land uses in Maroondah.
During 2015/16, 92% of engineering development applications were Did you know? assessed within 60 days.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 85 Our achievements
Drainage works completed at Dromsally Reserve During 2015/16, Council focused on employing sustainable design principles in the upgrade of Dromsally Reserve in Warranwood to provide improved pedestrian access and stormwater drainage management. The drainage reserve was rehabilitated, with the natural waterway elements of the area recreated by constructing a rock-lined channel providing greater capacity to capture and treat stormwater that enters the drainage system. Works also included a new boardwalk, fencing and landscaping to make the area more visually appealing and accessible for the local community.
Drainage works commenced in Ringwood East During 2015/16, Council secured funding and commenced key drainage works as part of Knaith Road rehabilitation and improvement works in Ringwood East. These renewal works include the reconstruction of existing kerb and channel along both sides of Knaith Road; construction of a shared user path along the north side of Knaith Road; indented off road parking spaces; construction of various Local Area Traffic Management treatments; a new road surface; and a number of water sensitive urban design bio-retention and passive irrigation garden beds. Council undertook extensive community consultation in preparing the major re-design of the area. The community indicated their desire for a more pedestrian and cyclist friendly area, indented off-street parking as well as traffic calming devices, kerb replacement and removal of inappropriate street trees and replanting. The project is funded by Council and a Melbourne Water Living Rivers Program grant at a total cost of $1.4 million. It is due for completion in late 2016.
Council maintains high performance in planning turnaround timeframes In 2015/16, Maroondah maintained its status as one of the top performing Metropolitan Councils. Some 86% of all planning applications were delivered within 60 statutory days. This is substantially above the metropolitan average of 64% of decisions delivered within 60 statutory days. Council also maintained its target of ensuring that planning permit applications at hand did not generally rise above 250 live applications.
Asset Management Plans reviewed A major review and amendment of Council’s suite of Asset Management Plans was undertaken and completed during the 2015/16 financial year. The updated Asset Management Plans are a critical component for Council’s Long Term Financial Strategy, and will be reviewed annually to ensure currency and accuracy.
Road reconstruction works were undertaken on Knaith Road in Ringwood East during the financial year
86 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
Council’s proactive pit cleaning program refined Council continued its proactive pit cleaning program during 2015/16. The program is being refined as more historical data becomes available and maintenance patterns become more evident. This information will enable Council to target areas that require a higher level of maintenance and therefore enable the allocation of resources to achieve full capacity of the existing network in target areas.
Improvements to the Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre public space Numerous streetscape improvements were undertaken in 2015/16 to improve and activate the Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre. Council also commenced the installation of street furniture including seats, bins, bicycle racks and bollards based on the Ringwood Urban Design Guidelines.
Essential Safety Measure Inspection Program implemented Prior to the commencing the inspection program for essential safety measures in Council buildings, all relevant procedures, documentation and processes were reviewed and updated. A trial program for a selected number of Council buildings was implemented to test these processes. It is anticipated that additional Council buildings will be included in the program during 2016/17.
Working towards the introduction of a building permit service During 2015/16, Council commenced development of a business plan to guide the introduction of a building permit service. This process will continue in during 2016/17.
Continue to ensure residential pool safety compliance Council continued to implement the swimming pool audit program during the 2015/16 financial year to investigate safety barriers associated with swimming pools and spas. Of the 54 audits completed during the financial year, there was a 67% compliance rate. The 2015/16 audit program focused on finalising all historic outstanding notices and orders, resulting in a lower number of new audits being completed. A total of 791 notices that are 12 months or older have been resolved since September 2014. As of 30 June 2016, Council has no recorded building notices or orders that are over 12 months old.
New design guidelines for engineering developments In June 2016, Council finalised development of Engineering Development Design Guidelines. Developed over a number of years, the technical guidelines are aimed at providing direction to developers and engineering consultants when preparing paving and drainage plans for multi dwelling developments and subdivisions to satisfy town planning permit conditions. The guidelines will be made available for download from Council’s website during July 2016 and a launch event held to provide information to relevant consultants. It is hoped that the guidelines will result in improvements in the quality of plans submitted; a higher rate of first time approval of plans submitted; and better quality design outcomes for the Maroondah community.
Boulevard treatment applied to Maroondah Highway between Ringwood Street and Warrandyte Road Boulevard treatments have been implemented along Maroondah Highway between Ringwood Street and Warrandyte Road, in conjunction with the Eastland redevelopment and Ringwood Station and Bus Interchange project. These treatments support the creation of a safe, activated and walkable environment in the heart of the Ringwood Metropolitan Activities Centre. The boulevard treatments have also included works to reduce the number of vehicle lanes along Maroondah Highway from four to two, the reduction of the vehicle speed limit, removal of clearways, and tree planting. These works were implemented by the State Government after years of advocacy efforts by Council.
Council’s proactive pit cleaning program saw 16,561 drainage pits Did you know? inspected and cleaned during 2015/16.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 87 Stormwater assets assessed Various site specific stormwater drainage condition assessments were completed during the 2015/16 financial year as part of the annual Asset Condition Assessment program. The data collected will complement Council’s municipal flood modelling and will be used to assist with the development of long term capital works improvement programs for stormwater drainage assets.
New Build Over Easement Policy developed In May 2016, a Build Over Easement Policy and Build Over Easement Technical Guidelines were adopted by Council. The policy and guidelines were created to provide guidance for decision making in regard to applications to build over easements, and to strengthen Council’s position in regard to appeals at the Building Appeals Board.
Our challenges
Changing climate conditions Changing climate conditions continue to place increased stress on the condition and performance of all of Council’s community built environment assets. Council is continually looking for ways to achieve enhanced environmental resilience within its built environment.
VicSmart planning system The second year of the State Government VicSmart planning system has had a significant impact in Maroondah. The popularity of the 10 day decision time frame (previously 60 days) for VicSmart applications has seen the number of applications and workload increase by 44% in the year. This resulted in an increase of 402 applications decided during the period compared to 280 decisions in the 2014/15 financial year. Council maintained excellent turnaround times and achieved 99.5% of these decisions in less than 10 days.
Our future directions
Capital works highlights in 2016/17 The proposed 2016/17 Capital Works program is extensive and allocates a $24.553 million investment towards asset renewal and development across Maroondah. The proposed program of works will ensure Maroondah’s assets continue to meet the needs of the community. Highlights of the Capital Works Program include: $2.42 million for drainage works. This includes stormwater drainage infrastructure renewal works in Lusher Road, Croydon and Stage 3 Flood Mitigation works in the Acacia Court catchment, Ringwood $4.59 million on recreational improvements across Maroondah. This includes the Croydon Town Square project, along with sportsfield surface renovations at Springfield Reserve in Croydon and Belmont Park in Croydon South $5.43 million on buildings, including almost $2 million on building renewal to maintain assets to a high standard and ensure the community has access to safe and appropriate facilities $6.76 million on roads, footpaths, local area traffic management and commercial centres. This includes road resealing works and $1.2 million on footpath replacement works at various locations across the municipality.
Complete an update of the Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre Masterplan This project commenced during 2015/16 and is being undertaken in partnership with the Metropolitan Planning Authority. In 2016/17, a number of technical studies will be completed; community feedback received to date will be reviewed; and a draft Masterplan will be prepared.
Complete development of a Croydon Civic Masterplan This project will involve the establishment of a holistic masterplan for the Croydon Civic precinct that provides long term directions, taking service delivery requirements and the needs of the local community into account.
88 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
Undertake a review of Council’s Road Management Plan In accordance with the Road Management Act 2004, and the Road Management (General) Regulations 2016, Council’s Road Management Plan is required to be reviewed within the six month period following a general Council election. In 2016/17, Maroondah City Council will commence the formal process associated with a major review of this Plan, which will focus on establishing levels of service for road related inspection, maintenance and repair activities that are reasonable, affordable and achievable.
Implement Council's $5.4m 2016/17 community facilities improvement program The 2016/17 community facilities improvement program will include major works at Lipscombe Park Kindergarten, Wyreena Community Arts Centre, Croydon Sporting Pavilion, Brentwood Park Kindergarten (stage 2), and Knaith Road Child Care Centre. In total, the program consists of approximately 275 individual projects on 104 different community facility assets.
Develop a community facilities management plan, with service standards, to facilitate long term management In 2016/17, Council will develop a new management plan for community facilities modelled on Council’s Road Management Plan. The Plan will establish appropriate service standards (i.e. inspection frequencies, response times) for various activities relating to Council’s community facility assets. This will facilitate detailed monitoring and reporting and lead to improved facility management. The development of the community facilities management plan has commenced and is due to be completed by the end of 2016.
Continue the upgrade of drainage in the Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre, including the Acacia Court and Larissa Avenue catchments Council will continue staged drainage upgrade works during 2016/17 in Nelson Street and Browns Avenue in Ringwood as part the Acacia Drainage Catchment works. The detailed design for the drainage works in the Larissa Avenue Catchment in Ringwood will also commence, including construction of new drainage connection under the Ringwood Bypass.
Commence implementation of the Maroondah Housing Strategy through the preparation of a planning scheme amendment During 2016/17, Council will commence implementation of the Maroondah Housing Strategy 2016 through a number of priority actions. This will include the preparation of a planning scheme amendment that inserts the directions and objectives of the Strategy into the Maroondah Planning Scheme. In parallel to this amendment, Council will also look to prepare other amendments that give effect to commitments within the Housing Strategy such as rezoning in the Ruskin Park and Wonga Park residential precincts, and referencing both Maroondah 2040: Our future together and Council’s Active and Healthy Ageing Initiative within the Maroondah Planning Scheme. Council will also review neighbourhood character elements, including heritage, of the Jubilee Park precinct; whilst exploring opportunities to deliver greyfield redevelopment.
Develop a Public Lighting Strategy for Maroondah In 2016/17, Council will commence development of a new Public Lighting Strategy aimed at setting strategic justification for future lighting works, asset management, sustainable practices and new technologies.
Planning compliance continued to be a busy area of Council with 584 Did you know? cases lodged for investigation and response in 2015/16.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 89
Eastern Karen Community Association of Victoria dance group performing at the Maroondah Festival 2015
An inclusive and diverse community
Our future vision
In the year 2040, Maroondah will be an inclusive community where social connections are strong across generations and diversity is embraced and celebrated.
Our highlights
What we did this year What we plan to do next year
Some of the key highlights for the 2015/16 During 2016/17, Council will continue working year in working towards an inclusive and towards an inclusive and diverse community diverse community included: by: Commencing redevelopment of the East Completing construction of the $2.7m Ringwood Multi-purpose Pavilion East Ringwood Multipurpose Pavilion, Commencing development of a incorporating a home for the Victoria Reconciliation Action Plan Chin Community. Working in partnership to implement Completing development of a educational material on waste Reconciliation Action Plan management for culturally and linguistically diverse communities in multi-unit developments Hosting the inaugural Melbourne Autism Expo Hosting an International Women’s Day Breakfast Participating in the annual Pride March
90 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
Our feature project for 2015/16 Development of the East Ringwood Multipurpose Pavilion, incorporating a home for the Victorian Chin Community
Council has commenced construction of a new multipurpose pavilion at East Ringwood Reserve which will provide a new home for the Chin Community Victoria, whilst also providing new facilities for local sporting clubs.
It is expected up to 1,000 people will visit the redeveloped pavilion weekly upon completion. Features of the new pavilion will include a multipurpose community room, offices, classroom, meeting room, kitchen, social space and toilets on the upper level. In addition, the lower level will feature change rooms, umpires facilities, a trainers/first aid room, a gym and store rooms.
The East Ringwood Football Club, East Ringwood Cricket Club, Chin Community Victoria and Council have commenced working with an external facilitator to establish a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) focused on day to day operations of the Pavilion. The MOU is likely to include activities such as ‘come try’ nights which have already proven successful and will include a suite of policies and governance processes that will help ensure that the user group integration is smooth and sustainable.
The pavilion is scheduled for completion in early 2017.
Pavilion development works at East Ringwood Reserve
Maroondah is home to the largest Burmese community in Melbourne’s Did you know? eastern region.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 91 Our commitments during 2015/16 (Council Plan priority actions)
Action Title What was achieved Responsibility Status Complete During 2015/16, the design of the new Operations, Commenced redevelopment of $2.7m East Ringwood Multipurpose Infrastructure the East Ringwood Pavilion was completed, the demolition and Leisure Multi-purpose of the original sporting pavilion was demolished and construction of the new Pavilion pavilion commenced. The pavilion is scheduled for completion in early 2017.
Develop a Maroondah City Council last endorsed a Planning and Commenced Maroondah Reconciliation Policy Statement in 2008. Community Reconciliation Plan A new Reconciliation Action Plan is 2016 under development that embraces the official Reconciliation Australia model with the intention that it be officially endorsed by Reconciliation Australia. A working group was established in January 2016 with broad representation from indigenous and community organisations, along with Council officers. The working group will oversee the development of the Action Plan. A broad consultation program will be undertaken in the development of the Plan to identify and address issues important to the community. It is expected that the Plan will be presented to Council for consideration in mid 2017. Review and This project involved the provision of Corporate Achieved implement waste management educational material Services educational to community members from culturally material on waste and linguistic diverse communities in management for conjunction with the Migrant culturally and Information Centre, Whitehorse City linguistically Council and Deakin University. A wide diverse number of households were visited as communities in part of the project with educational multi-unit materials supplied. Translators have developments in been involved in these visits to explain partnership with the purpose of the materials and the Migrant respond to any questions. Interactive Information Centre, group sessions with the Chin community Whitehorse City have also been held, along with a Council and Deakin collaborative art project. University
Our strategic indicator results during 2015/16 (Council Plan indicators) Actual Target Actual Actual Indicator/Measure 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 2013/14 Number of volunteers engaged 473 420 396 339 within the organisation Please note that a change of less than +/- 3% is not considered significant
92 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
Our core services
Aged and Disability Services (Community Services) Council provides the Home and Community Care Program (HACC) which includes Intake and Assessment, Domestic Assistance (home care), Personal Care, Respite Care, Occupational Therapy and Allied Health, Vulnerable Persons Support Food Services (Meals on Wheels), Supported Residential Services (SRS) support program, Planned Activity Group and Property Maintenance services to HACC eligible residents. The HACC program aims to support frail older people, and people with a disability and their carers, to maximise their independence by supporting them to remain at home and stay connected to their community. Aged and Disability Services also provide Social Support activities, facilitate Carer Support Groups and provide support to Senior Citizens and Older Persons Groups.
Community Planning and Development (Integrated Planning) This area undertakes community planning and community development activities across Maroondah. The Team supports and strengthens community wellbeing through partnerships with residents and agencies to identify and respond to community needs. The Team works in the following areas: health and wellbeing planning, disability, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, advocacy, social research, marginalised and disadvantaged communities, prevention of violence against women, community safety and strengthening and building the capacity of the community.
Volunteer Workforce Services (Human Resources) This function oversees the development, implementation and review of Council’s Volunteer Strategy which includes a centralised and coordinated approach to recruiting, rewarding, promoting and managing Council’s volunteers to ensure the provision of sustainable Council services for the community. The function also coordinates Council’s student placement programs, disability employment programs and indigenous employment programs.
Youth Services (Community Services) This Team provides a wide range of services to young people aged 12-25 years who live, work, study or recreate within the City of Maroondah, and their families. Youth Services provide youth participation programs, personal development programs, social and recreation programs, and youth events. Information, support and referral services are also delivered to young people and their families to connect them with services and opportunities in the local community. This includes online information resources such as the Youth Services and No Wrong Door websites, and Maroondah Youth Services Social Media platforms. As well as delivery of services, Youth Services plays a key role in the development and co-ordination of the Maroondah youth service system by actively identifying youth needs and issues; advocating for or coordinating effective responses on behalf of local young people; facilitating networks for professionals; and coordinating and participating in sector projects.
At the last census in 2011, Maroondah had the highest proportion of Did you know? persons aged 85+ in Melbourne’s eastern metropolitan region.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 93 Our achievements
Reconciliation Week celebrated In recognition of National Sorry Day and National Reconciliation Week 2016, Council developed a curated exhibition, and a vibrant program of activities, events and workshops at Ringwood Town Square and Realm. The Smoke and Mirrors exhibition, held from May to July 2016, featured both existing and newly commissioned photography, along with paintings by leading contemporary artists including Paola Balla, Aunty Gwen Garoni and Sharon West. Other events during the week included: an indigenous art workshops for children in ArtSpace; a Mullum Mullum Creek historical walking tour; and an indigenous storytime at Realm in partnership with Eastern Regional Libraries and Mullum Mullum Gathering Place.
Former school refurbished for community use Refurbishment of the former Parkwood Secondary College was completed early in the 2015/16 financial year. Parkwood is now home to North Ringwood Community House, Ringwood Men’s Shed, Maroondah Toy Library, Penumbra Centre, Ringwood and District Historical Society and Ringwood U3A. During the financial year, Council also secured a landswap arrangement which will see Council take ownership of a portion of the site from the Department of Education and Training.
Maroondah hosts inaugural Melbourne Autism Expo The inaugural Melbourne Autism Expo was held at Karralyka in April 2016 and proudly supported by Council. The event was aimed at anyone who is touched by Autism, including those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), their parents, teachers, carers, family members and friends. Exhibitors provided access to useful and practical information, products and services related to ASD. Over 2,000 people attended the expo which included a range of activities and guest speakers; an exhibitor’s area with specialist products and services; as well as a breakout room for kids with ASD. The event was coordinated by Larissa Hill and Natasha McArdle, whose own children are on the spectrum and who both live and work in Maroondah.
Launch of the Pathways for Carers Walk In October 2015, Council partnered with Uniting Care Australia to launch The Pathways for Carers Walks project in Maroondah, as part of National Carers Week. The free program is based on a casual walking group that meets every second Tuesday of the month for a walk and coffee catch-up, providing a much-needed outlet for carers. The project also involves organising guest walkers who provide advice and social support during the walks.
The Pathways for Carers Walks project was launched in Maroondah during 2015/16
94 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
Karralyka hosts Maroondah All Inclusive Performance Festival The second annual Maroondah All Inclusive Performance Festival was held at Karralyka in May 2016. The event, organised by local community based arts organisation ‘Your DNA’, was a great success with several schools and community groups involved. The festival saw representatives from participating groups present five to eight minutes of performance material. Participants were asked to share their views on what inclusion means to them. This project and the festival provided a great platform for these young performers to express themselves and share their thoughts.
Vulnerable persons supported in their emergency preparedness Over the past 12 months, emergency planning has been discussed at all living at home and community care assessments conducted by Council. This is designed to identify and develop personal and community support networks; tailor and develop personal emergency plans; and register identified consumers on the Vulnerable Persons Register. Council has also worked in partnership with local community services networks to identify vulnerable persons who do not currently access Council services. Vulnerable seniors in the culturally and linguistic diverse communities were also engaged through a partnership undertaken in conjunction with EACH, Knox City Council and Yarra Ranges Shire Council. Presentations were made to over 400 people participating in seniors groups supporting residents from Greek, Burmese, Italian, Thai, and Chinese backgrounds.
Local residents supported to live independently at home During 2015/16, Council delivered 1,185 hours to clients who need extra assistance to improve their capacity to live independently at home. This service offers up to 12 weeks or 30 hours of intensive support and care coordination for people. Clients of the service have complex issues such as a significant change in their health, finances, accommodation or family. The focus of the 2015/16 program involved assisting clients with identifying what was important to them, creating a suitable care plan and linking them with services to assist them to continue to live independently.
Council’s food services receive tick of approval A survey of all Council food services clients was conducted in March 2016. Results were generally very pleasing with clients rating the overall service as either very good or good. Clients were very positive about the service, its volunteers and the quality and variety of meals provided. Feedback has enabled Council to review menus that now identify all ingredients and allergens, whilst also increasing the variety of meals offered.
Council supports young mothers During 2015/16, Council continued to pursue a joint partnership between Maternal and Child Health Service and Swinburne Young Mothers. This program provides educational programs including an outreach program for Key Ages and Stages appointments for young parents involved in Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) programs at Swinburne.
Mother Goose Program supports vulnerable families During 2015/16, Council successfully implemented a Mother Goose Program at Norwood Family and Children’s Centre. The program operates weekly and targets vulnerable families with an emphasis on mother and infant attachment and relationships.
In Maroondah, the highest numbers of recent overseas immigrants have Did you know? arrived from Burma, China, Malaysia, India, Thailand and Iran.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 95 Maroondah hosts International Women’s Day breakfast Council hosted its annual International Women’s Day Breakfast in March 2016 at Karralyka. The breakfast featured guest speaker, Susan Barton AM, founder and director of Lighthouse Foundation who provided some insight into her work with vulnerable young people and those experiencing homelessness. International Women’s Day is held annually all over the world to celebrate women’s achievements and inspire women in the process. The annual International Women’s Day Breakfast is Maroondah’s way of recognising women’s achievements and participate in our own communities and more broadly.
Council participates in annual Pride March Council participated in the annual Pride March during January 2016 as a sign of support and recognition for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and intersex (LGBTI) community. The annual Pride March celebrates equality with many local governments, community and private organisations, and individuals represented. Council’s participation was in response to its three commitments made in 2015. These are: to take a stand against homophobia and transphobia; to celebrate diversity in our community; and to increase the inclusion of our LGBTI community. Council has also signed the ‘No to Homophobia campaign’ and hosted an event to mark International Day against Homophobia and Transphobia.
Start the Conversation Project promotes inclusion among local youth Council delivered an award winning Start the Conversation Project during 2015/16 aimed at supporting the inclusion of LGBTI young people in Maroondah. Over 500 local young people were engaged during the program in education and consultation sessions, with a resource poster produced to promote positive stories of LGBTI young people. The project was guided by a team of twelve young people and funded through a State Government Healthy Equal Youth (HEY) Grant. The initiative won the VLGA and Youth Affairs Council of Victoria’s READYS (Recognising Excellence Award for the Delivery of Youth Services).
Council participated in the annual Pride March during January 2016
96 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
Council hosts Seniors Festival activities Council participated in the annual Victorian Seniors Festival during October 2015 with a range of activities and events. The Festival recognises the achievements and contributions of older people within our community. The program included information sessions, training courses, walking groups, outdoor and indoor exercise classes, and craft sessions. The local program was headlined by the Seniors Festival Day at Karralyka which included the popular Seniors Wellbeing Expo and the launch of Council’s Active and Healthy Ageing Initiative.
Celebrating Maroondah’s volunteers A combined 905 years of service to the Maroondah community by 44 volunteers was recognised at Council’s 2015 Volunteer Recognition Event. Many of these volunteers have offered their time for more than twenty years. The annual event is an opportunity to publicly thank and acknowledge all of our wonderful volunteers who assist with the many Council services to our community, including Meals on Wheels, Maroondah Police Seniors Register, environmental groups, activity groups and special committees. This year Council celebrated a significant milestone, with Adele Allen marking 45 years of volunteering with Council’s Meals on Wheels in Croydon.
Our challenges
Home and Community Care changes Council has faced a number of challenges arising from the imminent move to the Commonwealth Home Support Program from 1 August 2016. A key focus has been to ensure that Commonwealth requirements are incorporated into current home and community care structures, systems and procedures. The move to ‘My Aged Care’ software system for the management of client information has required evaluation of existing systems and hardware to ensure that data is properly captured and able to be accurately reported. Information has been developed and distributed to clients to inform them of the new system. Council will continue to review home and community services and structures during 2016/17 to ensure that client needs continue to be met as we move to this new program in August 2016 and to the National Disability Insurance Scheme in November 2017.
Our future directions
Complete construction of the $2.7m East Ringwood Multipurpose Pavilion, incorporating a home for the Victoria Chin Community Construction of the $2.7m East Ringwood Multipurpose Pavilion is currently underway, and is scheduled to be completed by February 2017.
Complete a Reconciliation Action Plan and present to Council for consideration Council’s Reconciliation Action Plan will continue to be developed during 2016/17 in consultation with the Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group. A broad consultation program will be undertaken in the developing the Plan to identify and address issues important to the community. Once completed, the Plan will be forwarded to Reconciliation Australia for endorsement, ahead of being presented to Council for consideration.
Develop and deliver the 'Equal Sports' project This Council project to be delivered in 2016/17 will follow on from the highly successful ‘Start the Conversation’ project. It will tackle homophobia in sporting clubs, by producing a short video promoting diversity and the inclusion of LGBTI young people in sports.
Council’s longest serving volunteer has served the City of Maroondah Did you know? for 46 years
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 97 Some of the local students who participated in Council’s 2015/16 Work Inspiration Program
A well governed and empowered community
Our future vision
In the year 2040, Maroondah will be an effectively empowered community that is actively engaged in Council decision making through processes that ensure their voice is heard and considered. Council provides strong and responsive leadership, ensures transparent processes and works with the community to advocate and champion their needs.
Our highlights
What we did this year What we plan to do next year
Some of the key highlights for the 2015/16 During 2016/17, Council will continue working year in working towards a well governed and towards a well governed and empowered empowered community included: community by: Developing a Workforce People & Culture Completing the upgrade of the Strategy 2016-2020 Maroondah City Council website with Securing two former school sites for mobile and social functionality community use through a land swap Developing and commencing agreement implementation of the Information Introducing The Maroondah Foundation Communication Technology (ICT) Developing a new Community Engagement Strategy 2017-2020 Policy Implementing the People, Workforce and Delivering a community grants program Culture Plan 2016-2020 Appointing two new Honorary Freeman of Implementing an integrated service the City delivery model at Council Service Centres.
98 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
Our feature project for 2015/16 Landmark agreement secures two sites for the community
In May 2016, Council was pleased to announce a major breakthrough in negotiations with the Victorian Government regarding two former school sites owned by the Education Department.
The landmark agreement sees Council take possession of approximately 35,000m2 of land, in two parcels, in exchange for an 8,000m2 piece of Council land adjacent to the Melba College which will go to assisting with the upgrade of the Melba College site.
The first parcel of land that will be given to Council is approximately 20,000m2 of the former Croydon South Primary School site. Council has advocated for some time to the Victorian Government to seek to have part of the former Croydon South Primary School site made available for community use. Croydon South Primary School was originally estimated to be worth approximately $7.5 to $8 million in value, which Council was not in the position to purchase. Council will now work with the community to determine how this land should be used.
The second parcel of land which Council will take ownership of is approximately 15,000m2 at Parkwood, which includes the buildings and carparking. As well as securing a home for the six community groups it will also result in the cancellation of Council’s current lease agreement at Parkwood resulting in ongoing financial savings.
Council has now focused its attention on working with the Education Department to complete the formal agreements for these sites.
Parkwood
The recent landswap agreement with the State Government involving Did you know? the Parkwood Community Hub will save Council approximately $130,000 a year in leasing costs.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 99 Our commitments during 2015/16 (Council Plan priority actions)
Action Title What was achieved Responsibility Status Develop a Human Council has developed a new Workforce Corporate Achieved Resources People and Culture Strategy. The Services Strategy 2016 Strategy aims to provide an 2020 to cater for organisational road map for workforce emerging needs people and culture services, activities and systems over a four year timeframe. Council recognises the need to attract quality people and to optimise their performance and retention in order to continue to provide vital services to the community by the organisation. Furthermore, implementing active workforce strategies in an environment of continuous change, potential uncertainty, continuous improvement (including innovation) requires a considered approach. This new Strategy will be launched and implemented across Council during 2016/17.
Our strategic indicator results during 2015/16 (Council Plan indicators) Actual Target Actual Actual Indicator/Measure 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 2013/14 Community satisfaction with overall performance of Council 68 67 66 67 (CSS) Community satisfaction with 59 57 57 55 overall direction of Council (CSS) Community satisfaction with customer service provided by 77 74 73 74 Council (CSS) Average liabilities per $994 $990 $1,008 $543 assessment
Operating result per assessment $84 $87 $346 $216 Average rates and charges per $1,441 $1,468 $1,432 $1,476 residential assessment Community satisfaction with 58 57 55 57 Council engagement (CSS) Community satisfaction with Council lobbying/advocacy 54 59 57 59 (CSS) Please note that a change of less than +/- 3% is not considered significant
100 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
Our core services Communications and Marketing This team has both a corporate and an operational responsibility for the management of public relations, communications and marketing for Council, to promote the work and achievements of Council and keep the community informed and engaged. It provides a range of services including publications, advertising and newsletters, communication and advocacy campaigns, management of Council’s e-Communications including websites and digital media, Council’s branding, corporate identity and marketing, internal communications, development of style guides and related policies. The team also provide a councillor support role and external grants management.
Contracts and Purchasing (Finance and Governance) This function assists Council’s Service Areas in the purchasing of goods and services through the strategic development and co-ordination of the purchasing, tendering and contract management processes.
Council Planning (Integrated Planning) This function oversees the integrated planning and delivery of Council activities in accordance with organisational outcome areas, key directions and budgets. In particular, the Council Planning function coordinates the preparation of the Council Plan, the Annual Report, the service delivery planning process and the development, monitoring and review of the Maroondah 2040 Community Vision.
Customer Service (Revenue, Property and Customer Service) The Customer Service Team manages and operates Council’s 1300 Call Centre and three service centres: in Braeside Avenue, Croydon Civic Square, and Realm. The Team provides information and referral on Council services, booking services for a number of local facilities and Council services, referral of customer requests, and cash receipting for payment of accounts and fees.
Financial Services (Finance and Governance) This team provides sound financial management that complies with legislative requirements, and also ensures that planning and budgeting activities meet Maroondah’s vision and the long term financial sustainability of Council. The core services include: accounts payable, financial accounting (including reconciliations, financial accounts and statutory returns), management accounting (including annual budget, monitoring and reporting) and strategic project analysis.
Governance (Finance and Governance) This team provides administration and civic support to Council, develops Council agendas and minutes, organises citizenship ceremonies, ensures Council-wide statutory compliance and provides governance advice to Council. The Team also manages hall-keeping and meeting room requirements at Council offices.
Human Resources Advisory Services (Human Resources) This team provides a range of generalist human resources advice and support on matters including recruitment and selection, induction, job design and analysis, remuneration and benchmarking, policies and procedures, equal opportunity, performance management and conditions of employment.
Information Technology (Information Technology) This team provides most of its support and services to internal Council employees. It offers indirect benefits to the community by providing information technology infrastructure and systems to all Council teams to enable efficient and effective service delivery. The service area also provides the back-end technical support for Council’s websites, provides the ability for electronic transactions to take place through Council’s eServices, and provides a public online mapping system for the community to access via Council’s website.
23% of local residents surveyed as part of the annual Local Government Did you know? Community Satisfaction Survey said ‘things have improved over past year’, while 63% said ‘things have stayed the same’.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 101 Learning and Development (Human Resources) This team oversees the development, implementation and review of Council’s Learning and Development activities which cover a range of internal services including management of all learning and development programs (including eLearning), performance reviews (RADAR), employee and leadership development programs, employee engagement and management of learning and development related policies.
Local Laws (Planning, Health and Local Laws) The Local Laws team provides a broad range services to ensure the amenity, function and safety of the City is maintained to a high standard. The activities include the registration and management of domestic animals; ensuring the management of safe and accessible car parking; protection of resident and business amenity and safety; ensuring fire preparedness and prevention; and managing the City’s school crossings.
Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) (Human Resources) This function oversees the development, implementation and review of Council’s safety management system which includes reviewing and updating OH&S policies, OH&S training, hazard identification, inspections and reporting and OH&S consultative processes.
Organisation Development (Human Resources) This function leads the development, implementation and review of Council’s human resource and workforce planning strategies. The function also coordinates process improvement initiatives to ensure Council maintains a sufficient and skilled supply of human resources to deliver sustainable community services. These strategies consider political, economic, social, technological, environmental and legal factors that may impact on the local government sector into the future. The function also manages the implementation and maintenance of human resource systems, initiates and coordinates process improvement activities, provides project management and change management support to the organisation and undertakes strategic human resource planning
Property and Valuations (Revenue, Property and Customer Service) This team provides, develops and implements revenue policy and strategy development, the annual rating strategy, statutory declarations and notices, and rate and charge generation. The function undertakes general property valuations, supplementary rating valuations, non-rating valuations, and reviews of the rateability of properties. The team also issues rate notices, develops revenue projections, manages concessions, leads Council’s debt recovery and manages the property database.
Records and Information (Finance and Governance) This function is responsible for the practical application of the full range of services associated with Council’s corporate record keeping system. The records management service includes mail processing, systems management and file movement, archival and retrieval.
Remuneration and Benefits (Human Resources) This team is responsible for the delivery of the fortnightly payroll (end-to-end), system administration of the Payroll System (CHRIS21) and Time and attendance system (Riteq), process and system improvements, legislative compliance, remuneration services, reporting and policy development and review.
Risk Management (Human Resources) This team oversees the development, implementation and review of the risk management framework across Council which includes the development and maintenance of strategic and operational risks including risk treatment plans and administration of the risk register. The function also provides risk management advice and training to Council service areas. Mitigation of Council’s liability is achieved through effective claims management and maintains appropriate insurance cover for insurable assets and liabilities.
WorkCover and Injury Management (Human Resources) This function involves management of rehabilitation, fitness for work and the return to work program, management of the employee assistance program and development of associated policies.
102 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
Workforce Relations (Human Resources) This function oversees Council’s enterprise agreement negotiation, award interpretation, provides employee and industrial relations advice and supports employment contract management.
Our achievements
A well governed community
Maroondah appoints two new Honorary Freeman of the City In April 2016, Council resolved to bestow two deserving citizens with the prestigious title of Honorary Freeman of the City. The honour of Freeman of the City has become a distinction by which a Council officially recognises a resident who has made an outstanding long term contribution to the local community, either through Council or community groups. Ms Anne Hubbard and Mr Brian Coopersmith were awarded the City’s highest honour for taking an active role in the community over many years. In its history, Maroondah City Council has previous bestowed this honour to only five other citizens.
Maroondah Councillors receive recognition from the MAV Councillor Tony Dib and Councillor Natalie Thomas were recognised with awards from the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) in October 2015. Cr Dib and Cr Thomas join Maroondah’s longest serving Councillor Les Willmott, who was recognised in 2012 by the MAV for twenty-five years of service, and who also holds the distinction of being named Mayor Emeritus for completing four terms as Mayor of Maroondah City Council and four terms as Mayor of the former City of Croydon. Councillor Tony Dib received two awards ‒ a Mayor Emeritus Award for three terms of service as Mayor of Maroondah as well as a 10-year Councillor Service Award for his term of service to the former Broadmeadows City Council and seven years with Maroondah City Council. Cr Dib received the MAV Mayor Emeritus Award following his election as Mayor on three occasions: 2007/08, 2010/11, 2014/15. Cr Dib was elected a Councillor for the City of Maroondah, in the former Eastfield Ward from 2005 to 2008, and has been one of three Councillors to represent the Arrabri Ward since February 2010. Cr Dib was elected to the former Broadmeadows City Council in 1983 where he served as a Councillor for one term, prior to making his home in Croydon. Councillor Natalie Thomas received her 10-year Councillor Service Award for her service to Maroondah City since November 2005. Councillor Natalie Thomas was elected to Maroondah City Council in 2005 representing the former Clocktower Ward, and in 2008 was elected as one of three Councillors to represent the Arrabri Ward.
New Honorary Freeman of the City - Ms Anne Hubbard and Mr Brian Coopersmith
In its history, Maroondah City Council has bestowed the title of Honorary Freeman of the City to just seven well deserving citizens: Ms Did you know? Anne Hubbard, Mr Brian Coopersmith, Mr William (Bill) Wilkins, Dame Phyllis Frost (dec.), Mr Alan Robertson (dec.), Mr George Pile (dec.) and Mr Robert (Bob) McDiarmid (dec.).
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 103
Continued implementation of the Information Community Technology Strategy (ICT) 2014-2017 The 2015/16 implementation of Year 2 actions from the ICT Strategy 2014-2017 included: Infrastructure renewal for the production and disaster recovery sites that will provide a modern and sustainable ICT environment for the next four years. Introduction of more online transactions, via ePathway and other on-line systems. Online streamlining of planning applications is seen as a significant improvement in delivering services to the community The introduction of SmartyGrants, an online system that provides a seamless and user- friendly way for community members and groups to apply for Council’s Community Grants Program.
New Local Law Number 11 endorsed by Council In December 2015, Council endorsed Local Law Number 11 – General Local Law to align with changing community expectations and following a period of public exhibition during October and November. Various changes to the Local Law were identified following an extensive research and review process and subsequent community consultation. The review process provided a range of feedback on the importance of maintaining neighbourhood amenity. Some areas of concern were unsightly properties, unregistered vehicles, responsible pet ownership and burning off. The new local law includes sections on vacant building, animal housing conditions, building site management, temporary buildings and shipping containers, storage of vehicles and machinery, vehicles in a public place, conduct in a municipal reserve and incinerators and burning. The new laws came into effect on 1 January 2016 replacing former Local Laws Number 8 and Number 10. Following community feedback in April and May 2016, a proposed amendment to the incinerators and burning section of the new Local Law Number 11 was identified
Employee engagement survey provides positive results Council administered an employee engagement survey in 2015 focused on employee’s engagement with their job and with Council as an organisation. The survey results were used to identify Council’s strengths and areas for improvement. The 2015 results showed overwhelmingly positive results when compared with previous results, particularly when benchmarked against other organisations. To build on these results, employee engagement action plans were developed by teams across Council to respond to the findings of the survey. It is envisaged that the survey will be repeated every 2-3 years.
Introduction of a new succession planning and phased retirement approach To manage succession planning, Council has commenced identification of critical roles and employees. A provider and program has been sourced to facilitate a more focused approach to phased retirement of employees. Delivery will take place from September 2016 onwards
Council advocates through a peak local government sector body Council continues to effectively advocate for the community on important issues through the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV). Council submitted two motions to the MAV State Council in October 2015. The motions related to MAV advocacy protocols regarding escalation and an advocacy approach to the State Government to use stamp duty revenue for social housing purposes. Both of these motions were strongly supported. Council also submitted four motions at the MAV State Council in May 2016. The motions related to the electoral voting system; cash in lieu of carparking provisions within the Planning Schemes; railway station parking; and the cost of Local Government elections. The motions were carried with some amendments demonstrating Council’s continued leadership on issues within the sector.
Development of a regional resilience framework commenced Council has commenced development of a new framework to promote community resilience and emergency preparedness. A regional approach to this project has been adopted as part of the Municipal Emergency Resource Program in conjunction with Knox and Yarra Ranges Councils. Work on this new framework will continue in 2016/17.
104 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
New risk maturity framework developed The Risk Management Work Plan 2016-17 - 2017-18 has been developed to advance Council's risk maturity from a developing to an integrated status. Key success factors have been identified for Year 1 and 2 of the work plan in six key areas: culture - the behaviour of people within the organisation supports risk management practices; governance - the approach for developing, supporting and embedding risk strategy and accountabilities; resources - the resources and planning allocated to the management of risk; process - the process for identifying, assessing, evaluating, treating and monitoring risk; assurance - the process of establishing integrity and validity to bring confidence and support decision-making; and interagency - risks which are shared and unmitigated by one agency increases risk to another agency.
New Secondment Policy developed During 2015/16, Council developed and commenced implementation of an Internal Secondment Policy. The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance and clarity in the facilitation and management of internal secondments, whereby an employee voluntarily fills a temporary vacancy at the same or higher level as their substantive position, for the purpose of professional development.
Procurement roadmapping project drives improved productivity and financial efficiency Undertaken over a number of years, the program activities in 2015/16 involved a review of Council's Procurement Policy, an update to procurement processes/guidance documentation, the implementation of a compliance plan and commenced develop of a procurement training program.
An empowered community
Implement a new concierge model of customer service at Realm In 2015/16, Council implemented a new customer service model at Realm. This new model allows interaction with customers and visitors anywhere on the ground floor at Realm through the use of hand held tablets. This innovative approach to service delivery has been well received by both customers and visitors to Realm.
Introducing ‘The Maroondah Foundation’ Launched in April 2016, The Maroondah Foundation will raise funds, which will then be used to support the Maroondah community. Donations made through the Public Ancillary Fund will go to eligible charitable organisations to run activities, services and programs that benefit the people of Maroondah. Donations to The Maroondah Foundation are tax deductable and can be made online at www.themaroondahfoundation.org.au
Council’s employee engagement levels have increased to 80% job engagement (double the local government benchmark) and 81% for organisational engagement (over double both the Australian and local Did you know? government benchmarks). The overall combined employee engagement for Council employees increased to 73% (double the local government benchmark).
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 105
New Community Engagement Policy adopted In August 2015, Council adopted a new Community Engagement Policy. The Policy is a formal expression of Council’s commitment to engaging the community through the use of appropriate, effective and inclusive practices. It also seeks to improve Council’s engagement processes through encouraging a consistent approach. Implementation of this Policy will be supported by a toolkit.
2015 Maroondah Photo Competition award winners The winners of the 2015 Maroondah City Council Photo Competition were announced at a special event at Maroondah Federation Estate in July 2015. This year the Maroondah Photo Competition celebrated 20 years and to mark the special milestone, entrants were invited entrants to submit photos into two special categories ‘My favourite Maroondah activity’ and ‘My favourite Maroondah building’.
56 local community groups benefit from grants program More than $104,000 was allocated to 56 community organisations for various programs and projects under the 2015/16 Maroondah City Council Community Grants Funding Program. All of these organisations demonstrated their ability and desire to provide programs that will increase opportunities for community participation in social and leisure activities, enhance community wellbeing, and service a demonstrated community need within Maroondah. The 2015/16 program provided funding to a wide variety of community organisations including support agencies, emergency relief providers, CALD groups, age specific groups and recreation clubs. The financial assistance provided by the Community Grants Funding Program assists these organisations to be able to offer a greater range of services and programs to the community, and improve the facilities and equipment available to their users.
Local youth shape engagement with their peers Council delivered a Peer Engagement Program during 2015/16 to involve young people in the development and implementation of Council’s Youth Plan consultation. Ten young people participated in the program and worked in partnership with Council to design and deliver a range of consultation methods for young people, including consultation activities at Maroondah Festival, targeted focus groups and a survey of local youth.
Our challenges
Financial challenges Council continues to operate within a tight fiscal climate as evidenced by reduced interest rates, the introduction of rate capping by the Victorian Government and a reduction in grant funding at both Federal and State Government levels.
Changes to new Local Law Number 11 Following community feedback in April and May 2016, a proposed amendment to the incinerators and burning section of the new Local Law Number 11 was identified. The proposed amendment to Local Law Number 11 was placed on public exhibition for community feedback in June 2016. An outcome is expected during 2016/17.
In 2015/16, there was a 457% increase in the number of ratepayers who Did you know? chose to receive their rates notices via email
106 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
Legal support for IT software licences and service agreements Gaining legal support for new IT licences and service agreement, particularly for cloud solutions, presents an on-going challenge for Council. Local Government sector guidelines for this particular topic remain broad and non-specific which in turn provides limited direction for Council decision making.
Complex interfaces between ICT systems/applications. There are many efficiency benefits that can be gained from technological automation and integration of processes. Yet the development and maintenance of user friendly systems along with cloud based integration with Council’s existing corporate systems presents a range of challenges, particularly in relation to data security and alignment.
Developing a culture of innovation Council is working towards implementing a range of innovation and continuous improvement initiatives to maintain a sector leadership position that is in line with community needs and expectations. This cultural change will be formalised by the development of a new Innovation Strategy during 2016/17.
Emergency Management reform Over recent years, there have been many changes within the sector regarding preparedness, response and recovery arrangements, availability of funding, reporting lines and strategic direction. These changes have required Council to review and understand the changes that will directly impact on the Maroondah community.
Our future directions
Develop and commence implementation of the Information Communication Technology (ICT) Strategy 2017-2020 During 2016/17, Council will commence development of a new ICT Strategy for the 2017-2020 period. Development and implementation of the next ICT Strategy will form part of Council’s broader Innovation Strategy.
Replace Lotus Notes and undertake an upgrade of MS Office Council will replace its email software system during 2016/17 and also undertake an upgrade of Microsoft Office. These enhancements are expected to result in an improved efficiency and effectiveness in service delivery across the organisation. The upgrade will also provide a platform for future technological enhancements in the way Council delivers services.
Council’s community engagement processes will now be guided by a new policy
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 107 Enhance delivery of customer service using state of the art technology Council will introduce a new multichannel contact centre technology during 2016/17 financial year. This will enable customers to contact Council using their own choice of media and device, reducing the reliance of customers on Council service centres and its 1300 number.
Review and develop a new Domestic Animal Management Plan 2017-2021 The Domestic Animals Act 1994 requires Council to prepare a Domestic Animal Management Plan and provide an evaluation of its implementation of the Plan. Council annually reviews this Plan and continues to promote and support responsible pet ownership through the provisions of the Domestic Animal Management Plan. In 2016/17, Council will conduct a full review of the Plan and consult with internal and external stakeholders for input to create a new Plan for the 2017-2021 period.
Review Municipal Emergency Management Plan Council will review its Municipal Emergency Management Plan and sub plans (Fire, Relief and Recovery, Heatwave, Animal Management etc) during 2016/17 in consultation with relevant agencies. An audit of these plans will also be undertaken in March 2017.
On-line planning services and E-Pathway Council introduced an on-line planning register along with the capability for customers to lodge a range of planning applications and requests on-line. These online services will be substantially enhanced during 2016/17 to enable planning application plans to be reviewed, objections lodged, correspondence recorded and key events like community consultation forums and Council meetings to be publicised.
Undertake a review of Council's financial software system In 2016/17, Council will undertake a review and needs analysis of its current financial software, investigate alternative options and determine the best available product to meet Council’s future needs.
Enhance mobility with a focus on mobile apps During 2016/17, Council will commence deployment of Windows based tablets that provide better functionality to some service areas compared with existing mobile technology. Council will also work towards enabling online access to all Pathway mobile modules and consider the possibility of developing mobile apps in the future.
Explore benefits of cloud and open data for the community and Council Over the next 12 months, Council will establish requirements for the open data publications, seek agreement on external legal support for cloud computing, and evaluate the market for local government specific integrated cloud solutions.
Implement outcomes from the review of Council's Occupational Health and Safety system Following a review of Council’s established Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) system, resources have been allocated to conducting documented hazard identification and risk assessment processes, and ensuring appropriate risk control measures are implemented. Council’s comprehensive OHS committee structures continue to provide an active means for managing and consulting employees and their representatives in relation to workplace safety issues. Council continues to invest in ongoing OHS education and training whilst OHS Policies and procedures continue to be reviewed and revised in consultation with relevant OHS committees.
Implement the Workforce Relations Plan 2016-2020 The strategic workforce relations initiatives successfully incorporated into the current four year Enterprise Agreement, has enabled Council to successfully recruit and select significant new, flexible, skilled and sustainable workforces, at both the Aquanation and Realm sites. The Maroondah Consultative Committee continues to provide an effective means of consulting employees, and their representatives in relation to proposed changes and Council’s human resources policies and procedures.
108 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
Corporate Governance
The Victorian Constitution Act 1975 describes local government as a distinct and essential tier of government consisting of democratically elected Councils having the functions and powers that the Parliament considers are necessary to ensure the peace, order and good government of each municipal district.
Maroondah City Council is constituted under the Local Government Act 1989 to provide democratic local government for the Maroondah community. The purposes and objectives of Council as well as the functions and powers of a local government are also defined in the Act.
Democratic governance in Maroondah is supported by policies and protocols associated with both the functions of Council and of Council employees.
Council’s formal decision-making processes are conducted through Council meetings and Special Committees of Council. Council delegates the specific functions to Council employees. These delegations are exercised in accordance with adopted Council policies.
Council meetings
Council determines policy and makes other decisions at Council Meetings on an ongoing basis. Policies and budgets endorsed by Council provide the framework for the provision of services and programs and for day-to-day operational decision-making. Council employees provide advice and expertise to assist Council decision-making. At formal Council meetings, the CEO and Directors present written reports on matters requiring a Council decision. These reports make up the Council meeting agenda and provide background to, details of and recommendations about each matter being considered. Councillors make the final decision. Council meetings are open to the public and held on Monday evenings on a monthly basis. Due to issues of timing it is sometimes necessary for Special Council Meetings to be called to consider specific matters.
The Local Government Act 1989 [s.89(2)] allows Council to resolve that the meeting be closed to the public, if matters of a confidential nature are to be discussed.
Meetings are conducted in accordance with the provisions of Council’s Local Law No. 7 - Meetings Procedure & Use of Common Seal, the objectives of which are to: Regulate the proceedings of Ordinary and Special Meetings of the Maroondah City Council Elect the Mayor and Acting Chairman Govern use of the Common Seal of the Maroondah City Council and the proceedings of Special Committees.
The Council meeting agenda is available on Council’s website from 12 midday on the Friday preceding the meeting and from Council’s Service Centres on the Friday preceding the meeting.
All Councillors and employees are required to disclose any conflict of interest in relation to any item to be discussed at Council meetings. If a conflict of interest exists, Councillors are required to leave the room when voting on an item occurs. Time is made available during ordinary meetings for questions from the public in accordance with guidelines prescribed in Local Law No. 7.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 109 Councillor Code of Conduct
The Local Government Amendment (Improved Governance) Act 2015 required Councils to review their Code of Conduct and make any necessary changes by 4 July 2016. It is now mandatory for all Councils to have internal resolution procedures for any disputes that may arise and such to include an independent arbitrator. Additionally Councillors are required to make a declaration they abide by the provisions of the Code and failure to do so will constitute disqualification from Council.
Maroondah City Council completed the review of the Code, adopting it at a Special Meeting held on 18 April 2016. All Councillors at that meeting signed and made their declaration stating they have read the Code of Conduct and will abide by the provisions of the Code. Cr Marks was an apology for the Special Meeting and made her declaration on 26 April 2016.
The code requires that all Councillors: Act with integrity Exercise their responsibilities impartially in the interests of the local community Not make improper use of their position to advantage or disadvantage any person Avoid conflicts between their public duties as Councillors and their personal interests and obligations Act honestly and avoid making verbal or written statements and avoid actions that may mislead a person Treat all persons with respect and will show due respect for the opinions, beliefs, rights and responsibilities of other Councillors, Council employees and other people Exercise reasonable care and diligence and submit to lawful scrutiny that is appropriate to their office Ensure that public resources are used prudently and solely in the public interest Act lawfully and in accordance with the trust placed in them as elected representatives of their community Support and promote these principles by leadership and example so as to ensure the public has confidence in the office of Councillor Delegations
Council has delegated specific functions to nominated employees, which enables routine decisions to be made more speedily and ensures that Council meetings are not tied up with procedural and operational administrative decisions. It also enables Council to utilise the technical knowledge, training and experience of its employees to provide the best possible service to the community.
Delegations are made by resolution of Council at a formal Council meeting and specify the degree of decision making and action for which employees are empowered. In exercising their delegated powers, employees must observe the strategies, policies and guidelines that have been adopted by Council. Through the CEO, Directors and Managers, Council monitors the actions of its employees to ensure that they exercise their delegated authority within the general framework it has determined. Employees to whom delegated authority has been given include the CEO, Directors, Managers, planning employees, environmental health employees, local laws employees and Municipal Building Surveyor and building surveyors. Many routine decisions of Council are made by these employees.
Council is required to review its delegations to employees within twelve months of each general Council election. Council must also keep a register of all delegations, which is available for public inspection.
110 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
Mayoral election
The Maroondah City Council Mayor is elected by the Councillors for a one year term. Cr. Natalie Thomas was elected as the 20th Mayor of Maroondah City Council for 2015/16 at a Council meeting on 11 November 2015. The role of Mayor is significant as a community leader and Council spokesperson. The Mayor performs an important leadership, social and ceremonial function and chairs all Council meetings.
Councillor representation and attendance
There are two types of bodies requiring formal Council representation, either Council led or where Council participates. Council led bodies/advisory groups have been initiated by Council and are serviced administratively. They typically consider in-depth issues that are related to Council policy or activities. Their primary purpose is to advise Council on various issues. An extension of these committees has been the development of internal committees with a large degree of community representation. External bodies where Council participates are outside the control of Council as they operate under their own charter and determine their own procedures, policies and practices. In these instances, Council involvement is to participate and influence the activities of those external groups where activities are in Maroondah’s interest.
Committee representation is reviewed on an annual basis and coincides with the election of Mayor. Convention indicates that where the Mayor is a member of a Council led committee; they would automatically act as chairperson, unless they relinquish that role. In accordance with good governance practice, the Mayor may exercise the option to attend any Committee in an ex-officio capacity if he or she is not a specific member of a committee.
From July 2015 to June 2016, twelve (12) ordinary Council meetings and two (2) Special Council meetings were held. Councillor attendance at the meetings in 2015/16 was as follows:
Councillor attendance at Council Meetings – July 2015 to June 2016 Attendance Meetings Councillors eligible to Ordinary Special Total attend Council Council attendance Meetings Meetings Cr. Tony Dib JP (Mayor: July 2015 to November 2015) 14 11 2 13 Cr. Christina Gleeson 14 11 2 13 Cr. Natalie Thomas (Mayor: November 2015 to June 2016) 14 12 2 14 Cr. Nora Lamont 14 11 2 13
Cr. Mary Anne Lowe 14 10 1 11
Cr. Samantha Marks 14 7 1 8
Cr. Liam Fitzgerald 14 11 2 13
Cr. Rob Steane 14 12 2 14
Cr. Les Willmott JP 14 10 2 12
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 111 Council involvement on advisory committees
These committees provide Council advice from key stakeholders on a range of issues.
Representation on Council Advisory Committees Council Advisory Council Representative/s Committee Audit and Risk Advisory July to November 2015: Mayor of the Day – Cr. Dib JP and Cr. Les Committee Willmott JP
November 2015 to June 2016: Mayor of the Day – Cr. Natalie Thomas and Cr. Dib JP
Disability Advisory July to November 2015: Cr. Fitzgerald and Cr. Lamont Committee November 2015 to June 2016: Cr. Lamont and Cr. Fitzgerald
Substitute representatives July to November 2015: Cr. Thomas and Program Manager Community Planning & Development November 2015 to June 2016: Cr. Thomas and Program Manager Community Planning & Development
Maroondah Business July to November 2015: N/A Advisory Committee* November 2015 to June 2016: Cr. Lowe, Cr. Willmott and Cr. Lamont
Maroondah Community July to November 2015: Cr. Gleeson, Cr. Steane and Cr. Lamont
Safety Committee November 2015 to June 2016: Cr. Gleeson, Cr. Steane and Cr. Dib
Substitute representative July to November 2015: Community Safety Officer November 2015 to June 2016: Community Safety Officer
Maroondah Community July to November 2015: Cr. Lamont and Cr. Marks
Wellbeing Committee November 2015 to June 2016: Cr. Gleeson and Cr. Marks
Substitute representatives July to November 2015: Cr. Lowe and Social Planning and Development Officer and/or Program Manager Community Planning & Development November 2015 to June 2016: Cr. Lowe, Social Planning and Development Officer and Program Manager Community Planning & Development
Maroondah Environment August to November 2015: Cr. Gleeson, Cr. Marks and Cr. Advisory Committee** Willmott
November 2015 to June 2016: Cr. Willmott, Cr. Marks and Cr. Gleeson
* Established in November 2015 ** Established in August 2015
112 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
Council involvement in external committees
These regional committees provide Council with the opportunity to represent local residents on a broad range of issues.
Representation on External Committees
External Committee Council Representative/s Eastern Affordable July to November 2015: Cr. Thomas Housing Alliance November 2015 to June 2016: Cr. Thomas
Substitute representatives July to November 2015: Cr. Dib JP, Program Manager Community Planning & Development and/or Manager Integrated Planning November 2015 to June 2016: Cr. Fitzgerald and Program Manager Community Planning & Development and/or Manager Integrated Planning
Eastern Regional July to November 2015: Cr. Lowe and Cr. Marks Libraries November 2015 to June 2016: Cr. Lowe and Cr. Thomas Corporation Substitute representatives July to November 2015: Cr. Thomas and Cr. Willmott November 2015 to June 2016: Cr. Willmott, Cr .Gleeson and the Director Corporate Services (or nominee)
Eastern Transport July to November 2015: Cr. Fitzgerald Coalition November 2015 to June 2016: Cr. Marks
Substitute representatives July to November 2015: Strategic & Transport Planner November 2015 to June 2016: Strategic & Transport Planner and/or Team Leader Strategic Planning and Sustainability
Metropolitan Waste July to November 2015: Cr. Willmott JP Management Group November 2015 to June 2016: Cr. Willmott JP
– Waste Substitute representatives Management Forum July to November 2015: Director Corporate Services, Finance Project Accountant and Waste Management Coordinator November 2015 to June 2016: Director Corporate Services, Finance Project Accountant and Waste Management Coordinator
Municipal July to November 2015: Cr. Willmott JP Association of November 2015 to June 2016: Cr. Willmott JP Victoria National Local July to November 2015: Cr. Steane Government Drug November 2015 to June 2016: Cr. Steane and Alcohol Substitute representatives Advisory Committee July to November 2015: Cr. Gleeson November 2015 to June 2016: Cr. Gleeson and Cr. Dib
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 113 Councillor Allowances
In accordance with Section 74 of the Local Government Act 1989, Councillors are entitled to receive an allowance while performing their duty as a Councillor. The Mayor is also entitled to receive a higher allowance.
The Victorian Government sets the upper and lower limits for all allowances paid to Councillors and Mayors. Councils are divided into three categories based on the income and population of each Council. Maroondah City Council is recognised as a category two Council.
The following table contains a summary of the allowances paid to each Councillor during the financial year.
Councillor Allowances 2015/16
Councillor Allowance Cr. Tony Dib JP (Mayor: July to November 2015) $44,143.64 Cr. Christina Gleeson $26,150.88 Cr. Natalie Thomas (Mayor: November 2015 to June 2016) $62,923.97 Cr. Nora Lamont $26,150.88 Cr. Mary Anne Lowe $26,150.88 Cr. Samantha Marks $26,150.88 Cr. Liam Fitzgerald $26,150.88 Cr. Rob Steane $26,150.88 Cr. Les Willmott JP $26,150.88
114 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
Councillor Expenses
In accordance with Section 75 of the Local Government Act 1989, Council is required to reimburse a Councillor for expenses incurred whilst performing his or her duties as a Councillor. Council is also required to adopt and maintain a Policy in relation to the reimbursement of expenses for Councillors. The Policy provides guidance for the payment of reimbursements of expenses and the provision of resources, facilities and other support to the Mayor and Councillors to enable them to discharge their duties.
Council also publishes in its Annual Report the details of the expenses, including reimbursement of expenses for each Councillor and member of a Council Committee paid by the council. The details of the expenses for the 2015/16 financial year are set out in the table below.
Councillor Expenses 2015/16 TR CM CC IC CT CCA Total Councillor ($) ($) ($) ($) ($) ($) ($) Cr. Tony Dib JP (Mayor: July to November $1,952 *$6,901 $0 $921 $6,400 $493 $16,667 2015) Cr. Christina Gleeson $1,572 $0 $0 $881 $7,531 $468 $10,452
Cr. Natalie Thomas (Mayor: November 2015 to $1,074 *$12,732 $0 $1,348 $5,457 $1,118 $21,729 June 2016) Cr. Nora Lamont $391 $0 $0 $1,170 $1,237 $355 $3,153
Cr. Mary Anne Lowe $914 $0 $0 $726 *$10,370 $1,247 $13,257
Cr. Samantha Marks $1,005 $319 $704 $793 $646 $97 $3,564
Cr. Liam Fitzgerald $0 $0 $0 $691 $404 $562 $1,657
Cr. Rob Steane $2,633 $250 $0 $390 $5,636 $2,854 $11,763
Cr. Les Willmott JP $1,632 $247 $0 $1,271 $6,087 $3,088 $12,325
Total $11,173 *$20,449 $704 $8,191 *$43,768 $10,282 $94,567
Legend: TR-Travel, CM-Car Mileage, CC-Child Care, IC-Information and Communication expenses, CT-Conferences and Training expenses, CCA-Civic and Community Attendance Note: No expenses were paid by council including reimbursements to members of council committees during the year
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 115 Conflict of interest
The Local Government Act 1989 defines the circumstances that give rise to a conflict of interest for Councillors, Council employees and members of Council special committees. It also specifies the actions that should be taken to resolve a conflict of interest.
Councillors are elected by the residents and ratepayers of their municipality to act in the best interests of the community. This is a position of trust and it needs to be clear that Councillors are acting in the public interest. When a Council delegates its powers to a Council officer or a committee, the officer or the Committee Members also need to act in the public interest.
A person in public office has a conflict of interest when they have a personal or private interest that might compromise their ability to act in the public interest. A conflict of interest exists even if no improper act results from it. In general terms, a person has a conflict of interest if they have a direct interest in a matter, including where they are likely to directly gain or lose financially. A conflict of interest also exists where a person has one or more of the following six types of indirect interest:
An indirect interest because of a close association with a family member, relative or housemate who has a defined interest, An indirect financial interest, including holding shares above a certain value in a company with a direct interest, A conflict of duty arising from having particular responsibilities to a person or organisation with a direct interest, Having received an applicable gift or gifts totalling $500 in value over a 5 year period, Being a party to the matter by having become a party to civil proceedings in relation to the matter, Where there is a reasonable likelihood of the person’s residential amenity being altered.
Councillors and senior management are reminded weekly of the need to disclose any conflicts, and the appropriate forms are provided. Declaration of a conflict of interest is a standard agenda item for all Ordinary Council, Special Council, Assembly and Committee meetings. While the procedures may vary depending on the circumstances, in general they involve disclosing the relevant interests in a specific way and then stepping aside from the relevant decision-making process or from the exercise of their public duty. A register is maintained to record all disclosed conflict of interests.
During 2015/16, four (4) conflict of interest disclosures were made at special and ordinary meetings of Council.
Conflict of Interest Disclosures at Ordinary and Special Meetings of Council
Councillor Officer Total
Direct interest (section 77B) 2 0 2 Indirect interest by close association (section 78) 2 0 2 Indirect financial interest (section 78A) 0 0 0 Indirect interest because of conflicting duties (section 78B) 0 0 0 Indirect interest due to receipt of a gift, being of $200 value or 0 0 0 more (section 78C) Indirect interest as a consequence of becoming party to civil 0 0 0 proceedings (section 78D) Indirect interest because of impact on residential amenity 0 0 0 (section 78E) Conflicting personal interest (section 79B) 0 0 0
116 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
Accountability
Audit and Risk Advisory Committee
The Audit and Risk Advisory Committee is established pursuant to Section 139 of the Local Government Act 1989 to assist Council in the discharge of its responsibility for financial reporting, maintaining internal controls, protecting the integrity of Council assets and facilitating good corporate governance. The Committee has an independent monitoring role and reports directly to Council.
Role
The role of the Audit and Risk Advisory Committee is to oversee, monitor and report upon the effectiveness of Council in carrying out its responsibilities for accountable financial management, good corporate governance, maintaining a system of internal control and risk management, and fostering an ethical environment.
Responsibilities
The responsibilities of the Audit & Risk Advisory Committee include providing assurance that: Financial and management reporting is reliable High standards of corporate governance are maintained Accounting policies are appropriate Council maintains compliance with all relevant legislation and regulations Risk management frameworks are effective Internal and external audit functions are effective and efficient Business continuity and disaster recovery planning is appropriate and effective Council maintains and fosters an ethical environment
Key activities
The Committee met on a quarterly basis during 2015/16 and its activities included a A detailed review of quarterly and annual financial statements Identification and assessment of risks Assessing the content and priorities of the internal audit program Reviewing results from the conduct of internal audits
Membership
Membership consists of five members, three external members (one of which is the chair), the Mayor and one additional Councillor. Councillor representatives are appointed annually. External member positions are advertised and successful candidates are appointed for a three year term with a maximum of six years. The Chief Executive Officer, Director Corporate Services, Manager Finance and Governance attend for advice and administrative support while the internal auditor and the external auditor attend meetings by invitation, to assist the committee with information requests.
Audit and Risk Advisory Committee membership July 2015 to November 2015 to March 2016 to Period October 2015 February 2016 June 2016 External Dr John Purcell (Chair) Dr John Purcell (Chair) Mr John Watson (Chair) Members Mr Hugh Parkes Mr Hugh Parkes Mr Hugh Parkes Mr Bruce Potgieter Mr Bruce Potgieter Mr Bruce Potgieter Councillor Cr. Tony Dib JP Cr. Natalie Thomas Cr. Natalie Thomas Members (Mayor) (Mayor) (Mayor) Cr. Les Willmott JP Cr. Tony Dib JP Cr. Tony Dib JP
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 117
External audit
Council is externally audited by the Victorian Auditor-General. In 2009, the Office of the Auditor-General appointed L D Assurance Chartered Accountants as their representative for a five year term. An external audit is undertaken each year on Council’s Financial and Standard Statements, and Performance Statement.
Risk Management
Maroondah City Council continues its commitment to proactive risk management as an integral part of its corporate governance system and operational service delivery performance. The fundamental aim is to support and enable Council to achieve its objectives through the identification and management of risks and the maximisation of opportunities.
Enterprise Risk Management
A risk management framework is defined as a set of components that provide the foundations and organisational arrangements for designing, implementing, monitoring, reviewing and continually improving risk management throughout the organisation. Council recently adopted an enhanced Risk Management Framework to set the base to manage risk moving forward.
The purpose of the Risk Management Framework is to align effective risk management practices across Council within a common framework, based on the Australian standard. The effectiveness of embedding such a framework is measured by its state of maturity of the management of Councils risk. Council is focussed on actively developing a consistent risk aware culture, increasing knowledge and application in decision making processes, leadership commitment, regular reporting and evaluation. The Risk Management Framework reflects the current risk activity within Council.
Risk Register
The Risk Register includes strategic and operational risks and is reviewed in its entirety on an annual basis. The fundamental risk assessment process is used in the identification, treatment and rating of risks. This review includes evaluation of the existing risks and addition of new or emerging risks. Treatment plans are also formulated for any high or extreme level risks, to lower the level of risk to a more acceptable medium/low risk target.
Risk Management Committees
The Risk Management Advisory Group’s key function is to monitor the risk management framework across Council. The group has broad management representation across operational service areas. Activities of this group are routinely reported to the Audit and Risk Advisory Committee.
118 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
Occupational Health and Safety
Maroondah City Council continues to actively work towards achieving and maintaining appropriate safety standards for its employees, contractors, volunteers and other persons in the workplace. .
Council has well-established policies, processes and systems of work in place relating to the reporting mechanisms including appropriate corrective actions systems.
Effective consultation on health and safety related matters occurs via several methods including, but not limited to, the OHS Steering and Local Area OH&S Committees.
Council is committed to providing all new and existing employees, Councillors, consultants, contractors and volunteers with appropriate information, instruction, equipment, training and supervision to enable them to work safely. Occupational Health and Safety forms a major component of the induction program provided to new employees.
Continuous improvement of Council's safety management system occurs via periodic reviews, including internal and external audit processes. Continued improvement in the area of Injury Management results in Worker Compensation costs being effectively controlled, while seeking to optimise the outcomes for ill/injured workers. Equal Opportunity, Harassment and Bulling Prevention Strategy
Maroondah City Council is committed to providing a workplace free of all forms of unlawful discrimination, harassment, victimisation, bullying and vilification and aims for equality of opportunity for all employees, Councillors, consultants, contractors and volunteers .
Discrimination, harassment, victimisation, bullying and vilification are not only unacceptable at Council, they are unlawful and Council will ensure that all employees, Councillors, consultants, contractors and volunteers are educated in the prevention of unlawful EO acts.
Maroondah City Council is committed to: Creating a working environment which is free from discrimination, harassment, victimisation, bullying and vilification, where all Employees, Councillors, Consultants, Contractors and Volunteers are treated with dignity, courtesy and respect Implementing training and awareness raising strategies to ensure that all parties know their rights and responsibilities, as far as is reasonably practicable Providing an effective procedure for complaints raising and resolution, based on the principles of natural justice Treating all complaints in a sensitive, fair, timely and confidential manner Guaranteeing protection from any victimisation or reprisals Encouraging the reporting of inappropriate behaviour Promoting appropriate standards of conduct at all times.
All three performance indicators were met during the 2015/16 period: The Equal Opportunity Committee will meet two to three times per year to review issues and identify opportunities for education and organisational improvement. All new recruits will undertake mandatory eLearning compliance modules (i.e. Equal Opportunity and Work Health and Safety and Workplace Bullying) as well as undertake appropriate face-to-face induction education. Every two years, on a cyclical basis, Maroondah City Council provides Equal Opportunity refresher training.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 119 Legislation
Council delivers a wide range of services and operates within a highly regulated environment. These Acts and regulations can either: have a direct impact on Council and require significant compliance, contain specific provisions relevant to Council and/or have indirect influence and require some knowledge by employees carrying out their duties.
Legislation that impacts upon Council activities (but is not limited to) is identified below:
Legislation (A-G) Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 Aged Care Act 1997 (Commonwealth) Associations Incorporation Reform Act 2012 Australian Accounting Standards Building Act 1993 Building Regulations 2006 Carers Recognition Act 2012 Catchment And Land Protection Act 1994 Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006 Children Youth And Families Act 2005 Children’s Services Act 1996 Climate Change Act 2010 Conservation, Forests And Land Act 1987 Country Fire Authority Act 1958 Country Fire Authority Regulations 2004 Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978 Cultural And Recreational Lands Act 1963 Dangerous Goods (Explosives) Regulations 2011 Dangerous Goods Act 1985 Disability Act 2006 Domestic Animals Act 1994 Drugs, Poisons And Controlled Substances Regulations 2006 Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010 Education and Care Services National Regulations 2011 Education And Training Reform Act 2006 Electricity Safety Act 1998 Emergency Management Act 1986 Environment Protection Act 1970 Estate Agents Act 1980 Fences Act 1968 Fire Services Property Levy Act 2012 Flora And Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 Food Act 1984 Freedom Of Information Act 1982 Gambling Regulation Act 2003 Geographical Place Names Act 1998 Geothermal Energy Resources Regulations 2006 Graffiti Prevention Act 2007 Health (Immunisation) Regulations 1999 Health (Prescribed Accommodation) Regulations 2010 Health Records Act 2001 Heavy Vehicle National Law 2012 Heavy Vehicle National Law Application Act 2013 Heritage Act 1995 Housing Act 1983
120 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
Legislation continued... (I-W) Impounding Of Livestock Act 1994 Independent Broad-Based Anti-Corruption Commission Act 2011 Infringements (General) Regulations 2006 Infringements Act 2006 Land Acquisition And Compensation Act 1986 Land Acquisition And Compensation Regulations 2010 Land Act 1958 Liquor Control Reform Act 1998 Local Government Act 1989 Local Government Amendment (Improved Governance) Act 2015 Local Government (Electoral) Regulations 2005 Local Government (General) Regulations 2015 Local Government (Long Service Leave) Regulations 2012 Local Government (Planning and Reporting) Regulations 2014 Magistrates' Court Act 1989 Major Transport Projects Facilitation Act 2009 Metropolitan Fire Brigades Act 1958 Mineral Resources (Sustainable Development) Act 1990 Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 Occupational Health And Safety Regulations 2007 Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014 Planning and Environment Act 1987 Planning and Environment Regulations 2005 Planning and Environment (Fees) Further Interim Regulations 2014 Protected Disclosure Act 2012 Public Health And Wellbeing Act 2008 Public Health And Wellbeing Regulations 2009 Public Records Act 1973 Road Management Act 2004 Road Safety (General) Regulations 2009 Road Safety (Traffic Management) Regulations 2009 Road Safety (Vehicles) Regulations 2009 Road Safety Act 1986 Road Safety Road Rules 2009 Second Hand Dealers And Pawnbrokers Act 1989 Sex Work Act 1994 Sheriff Act 2009 Sport And Recreation Act 1972 Subdivision (Fees) Further Interim Regulations 2013 Subdivision (Procedures) Regulations 2011 Subdivision (Registrar's Requirements) Regulations 2011 Subdivision Act 1988 Summary Offences Act 1966 Tobacco Act 1987 Transfer Of Land Act 1958 Transport (Safety Schemes Compliance And Enforcement) Act 2014 Transport Integration Act 2010 Urban Renewal Authority Victoria Act 2003 Valuation Of Land Act 1960 Victoria Grants Commission Act 1976 Victoria State Emergency Service Act 2005 Victorian Inspectorate Act 2011 Water Act 1989
The full text of Victorian Acts and Regulations is online at: http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/vic/ Full text of Commonwealth legislation is online at: http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 121 Victorian Local Government Performance Reporting Framework: Governance and management checklist The following statement provides the results in the prescribed form of Council’s assessment against the governance and management checklist as part of the Local Government Performance Reporting Framework.
Governance and Management Items Assessment
1 Community engagement policy (policy outlining Policy council’s commitment to engaging with the community on matters of public interest) Date of operation of current policy: 24 August 2015
2 Community engagement guidelines (guidelines Toolkit to assist staff to determine when and how to engage with the community) Date of operation of current guidelines: 21 June 2016
3 Strategic Resource Plan (plan under section 126 Adopted in accordance with of the Act outlining the financial and non- section 126 of the Local Government financial resources required for at least the next Act 1989 4 financial years) Date of adoption: 27 June 2016
4 Annual budget (plan under section 130 of the Act Adopted in accordance with setting out the services to be provided and section 130 of the Local Government initiatives to be undertaken over the next 12 Act 1989 months and the funding and other resources Date of adoption: 27 June 2016 required)
5 Asset management plans (plans that set out the Plans asset maintenance and renewal needs for key Date of adoption: 16 October 2015 infrastructure asset classes for at least the next 10 years) The Asset Management Plan is now a single document with sections for each asset class: roads, car parks, laneways and rights-of-way, kerb and channel, traffic management devices, pathways, bridges and walkways, park inventory, trees and stormwater drainage.
6 Rating strategy (strategy setting out the rating Strategy structure of Council to levy rates and charges Date of operation of current strategy: 27 June 2016
7 Risk policy (policy outlining Council’s Policy commitment and approach to minimising the risks to Council’s operations) Date of operation of current policy: 28 June 2016
8 Fraud policy (policy outlining council’s Policy commitment and approach to minimising the risk of fraud) Date of operation of current policy: 22 September 2015
122 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
Governance and Management Items Assessment
9 Municipal emergency management plan (plan Prepared and maintained in under section 20 of the Emergency accordance with section 20 of the Management Act 1986 for emergency prevention, response and recovery) Emergency Management Act 1986 Date of preparation: 16 February 2016
10 Procurement policy (policy under section 186A Prepared and approved in of the Local Government Act 1989 outlining the accordance with section 186A of the matters, practices and procedures that will apply to all purchases of goods, services and Local Government Act 1989 works) Date of approval: 9 February 2016
11 Business continuity plan (plan setting out the Policy actions that will be undertaken to ensure that key services continue to operate in the event of Date of approval: 8 December 2015 a disaster)
12 Disaster recovery plan (plan setting out the Plan actions that will be undertaken to recover and restore business capability in the event of a Date of approval: 11 July 2014 disaster)
13 Risk management framework (framework Framework outlining council’s approach to managing risks to the Council’s operations) Date of operation of current framework: 28 June 2016
14 Audit Committee (advisory committee of Established in accordance with council under section 139 of the Act whose role section 139 of the Local Government is to oversee the integrity of a council’s financial Act 1989 reporting, processes to manage risks to the council’s operations and for compliance with Date of establishment: 1 October applicable legal, ethical, and regulatory 1994 requirements)
15 Internal audit (independent accounting Engaged professionals engaged by the council to provide analyses and recommendations aimed at Date of engagement of current improving council’s governance, risk and provider: 1 September 2012 management controls)
16 Performance reporting framework (a set of Framework indicators measuring financial and non-financial performance, including the performance Date of operation of current indicators referred to in section 131 of the Act) framework: 30 June 2015
17 Council Plan reporting (report reviewing the Report performance of the council against the Council Plan, including the results in relation to the Date of report for the first six months strategic indicators, for the first six months of of financial year: 9 February 2016 the financial year)
18 Financial reporting (quarterly statements to Statements presented to council in Council under section 138 of the Act comparing accordance with section 138(1) of the budgeted revenue and expenditure with actual revenue and expenditure) Local Government Act 1989 Date quarterly statements presented: 24 August 2015, 23 November 2015, 15 February 2016, 16 May 2016.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 123 Governance and Management Items Assessment
19 Risk reporting (six-monthly reports of strategic Report risks to council’s operations, their likelihood and consequences of occurring and risk Date of report for the first six months minimisation strategies) of financial year: 17 May 2016
20 Performance reporting (six-monthly reports of Report indicators measuring the results against financial and non-financial performance, Date of report for the first six months including performance indicators referred to in of financial year: 9 February 2016 section 131 of the Act) Date of report for the second six months of financial year: 2 August 2016
21 Annual report (annual report under sections 131, Considered at a meeting of Council in 132 and 133 of the Act to the community accordance with section 134 of the containing a report of operations and audited financial and performance statements) Local Government Act 1989 Date presented: 19 October 2015
22 Councillor Code of Conduct (Code under Reviewed in accordance with section section 76C of the Act setting out the conduct 76C of the Local Government Act principles and the dispute resolution processes to be followed by Councillors) 1989 Date reviewed: 21 October 2013
23 Delegations (a document setting out the Reviewed in accordance with section powers, duties and functions of council and the 98(6) of the Local Government Act Chief Executive Officer that have been delegated to members of staff) 1989 Date of review: 25 August 2014
24 Meeting procedures (a local law governing the Meeting procedures local law made in conduct of meetings of council and special accordance with section 91(1) of the committees) Local Government Act 1989 Date local law made: 16 August 2010
I certify that this information presents fairly the status of Council’s governance and management arrangements.
______
Steve Kozlowski Cr. Natalie Thomas Chief Executive Officer Mayor Dated: 19 August 2016 Dated: 19 August 2016
124 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
The recently redeveloped Ringwood Station
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 125 Statutory information
The information in this section is provided in accordance with legislative and other requirements applying to Council. Topics within this section and the applicable legislation/regulations are listed below:
Statutory Information Relevant legislation/regulation (if Topic applicable) Local Government (Best Value Principles) Best Value Reporting Act 1999 Carers Recognition Carers Recognition Act 2012 Disability Policy and Action Plan Disability Act 2008 Documents to be made available for public Local Government Act 1989 inspection Domestic Animal Management Domestic Animals Act 1994 Food Act Ministerial Directions Food Act 1984 Freedom of Information requests Freedom of Information Act 1982 Local Laws Local Government Act 1989 Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014 and Privacy the Health Records Act 2001 Procurement Local Government Act 1989 Protected Disclosure Protected Disclosure Act 2012 Road Management Road Management Act 2004 Victorian Local Government Indicators Local Government Act 1989 Victorian Local Government Performance Local Government Act 1989 and Local Reporting Framework: Service Performance Government (Planning and Reporting) Indicators Regulations 2014
126 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
Best Value Reporting
In December 1999, the Victorian Government passed the Local Government (Best Value Principles) Act 1999 (the Act), which required Councils to review all their services against six Best Value principles. The legislation was introduced to replace the Compulsive Competitive Tendering that had been introduced in 1994. The Best Value principles aim to ensure that local government services are the best available and meet the needs of the community.
The Best Value principles as set out in Section 208B of the Act are: 1) All services provided by a Council must meet quality and cost standards. 2) All services provided by a Council must be responsive to the needs of the community. 3) Each service provided by a Council must be accessible to those members of the community for whom the service is intended. 4) A Council must achieve continuous improvement in the provision of services for its community. 5) A Council must develop a program of regular consultation with its community in relation to the services it provides. 6) A Council must report regularly to its community on its achievements in relation to Best Value.
Best Value principles allow Council to benchmark services, assess their efficiency and gauge the extent to which they meet community needs. The aim is to improve the responsiveness, quality, efficiency, accessibility and value of the services Council provides to the community.
At Maroondah City Council, an integrated planning framework ensures that Council strategies and financial resources are aligned in order to deliver the objectives outlined in the Maroondah 2040 Community Vision: Our Future Together and the Maroondah City Council Plan 2013-2017. Within this planning framework, an annual service delivery planning process incorporates reference to Best Value principles to ensure that all of Council services continue to meet the changing needs of the community.
To ensure a continuous improvement approach to the provision of Council services, a wide range of service delivery, information systems, human resource, process, physical infrastructure and community engagement improvement initiatives were implemented during 2015/16. Some of these initiatives are highlighted below.
Process improvements A Student Placement Plan was developed and implemented during early 2016 to provide a formalised process for secondary and tertiary student placements across Council service areas. Council has adopted a business partnering human resources service model enabling improved relationships and understanding of local service area issues across Council. Council has introduced family violence contact officers and training aimed at providing increasing support to employees who may be experiencing family violence. During 2015/16, Council focused on streamline processes for remuneration and benefits, workforce relations, learning and development, and organisational development functions to generate increased efficiencies. Pathway processes were developed in 2015/16 for a range of engineering-related applications including building on land subject to flooding, building on land subject to overland flow, and road and footpath closure permits. Council has commenced a limited outbound calling service through Council’s call centre to support delivery of a range of services In 2015/16, Council introduced a lifetime animal registration tag for animals. This change reduces the environmental impact, reduces administration requirements on animal owners and provides cost efficiencies
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 127
Service delivery improvements The BizHub Co-work space is a first for local government and a new offering for the Maroondah community. Maroondah Golf has introduced skate caddies which are an innovative new way to attract people to play golf. A new soccer holiday program was introduced at The Rings, offering a day program for 5-12 year olds Karralyka introduced Cook/ Chill method of service delivery for Meals on Wheels. The retail spaces and floor plans within Aquanation and Aquahub were revised enabling an expansion of the brands offered to customers whilst also providing more effective and visually appealing layouts. Council has provided a letter and tree care leaflet to residents with newly planted trees in front of their properties. This information helps local residents identify the species of their new street tree and provides guidance on how residents can assist Council with the care of these newly planted trees. Council has introduced a kerbside waste collection for Cherry Tree Retirement Village in Croydon Council now offers access to digital production services including video and sound recording and post production services. This is made possible by the dedicated technical resources available at Realm. In April 2016, Council commenced a partnership with Melba College which will see members of the youth services team placed at the school two days per week to strengthen community partnerships and well-being outcomes for students. In September 2015, Council commenced delivery of the L2P Learner Driver Mentor Program funded through VicRoads. This important program supports disadvantaged young people who face barriers to obtaining their licence because of a lack of access to a vehicle or driver mentor to gain the hours required. Council introduced a re-ablement program through occupational therapists and an allied health assistant. This program assists clients in building their skills to live independently through assessment for home modifications (such as rails and ramps); equipment that may assist in the home; training how to use equipment and how to modify domestic tasks to conserve energy and make them independently manageable; and programs that assist with changed life circumstances such as cooking for one. This service has been well received and assists clients to remain independent.
In 2015/16, Council commenced delivery of the L2P Learner Driver Mentor Program
128 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
Information systems improvements
Council’s The Hansen Asset Management System system underwent a major upgrade in June 2016, and the system is now known as IPS (Infor Public Sector). This upgraded system will facilitate further enhancement/development opportunities over the next 12 to 18 months that will enable significant improvements in relation to the management of works associated with Council’s community assets. Information Communication Technology (ICT) functions at Realm and Aquanation were delivered on time and as per agreed projects’ schedules and deliverables. Some of the technical solutions at these facilities are considered to be cutting edge and provide great value to user groups and the wider community. In 2015/16, Council introduced an on-line planning register and an ability to track every planning application lodged with council, lodge a range of more basic applications and submit a range of other requests on-line. This planning register has been well used by the community as it allows people to search for current and past applications in a street or by a particular property and also get detailed information on live applications such as the time and dates of community consultation forums. Council launched an online pet registration service in 2015/16 making it easier and faster for local residents. State legislation requires that all dogs and cats be registered with Council by the age of three months. The new online pet registration system only applies to new pet registrations, and participating residents need electronic copies of documentation that proves that their pet has been microchipped. In August 2015, Council introduced a new service to enable accredited organisations to apply for skip bin permits online. This process has made it faster for the approved companies to obtain a permit. In July 2015, Council commenced assessing build over easement applications using Pathway software. Previously, these applications were assessed and responded to using standard word document templates with no formal systems or procedures. Since online lodgement became publicly available in February 2016, 47% of all applications have been submitted online. The roll out of mobile devices and solutions continued during 2015/16, providing more flexibility to Council service areas when delivering services to the community. Council’s Corporate and Public Wi-Fi network was extended to 10 sites during 2015/16. Council launched a new online immunisation history request tool in early June 2015. This tool allows customers to go online and enter their details for an immunisation history. A template providing guidelines for the introduction of Cloud applications was developed. It has been determined that major corporate applications will operate on premises in the short tomedium term with the introduction of the business Cloud solutions to be considered based on applicability and approval of business cases. Further customisation with HR21, Council’s employee and payroll system, has enabled greater functionality and accessibility to employee details Launch of additional social media channels for Maroondah Golf and Running Club to ensure consistent messaging and continuous, relevant content on each page to build consumer engagement, relationships and dialogue. Council has commenced investigating how the BPay View module, already used for rates notices, can be extended to a range of additional customer payment types Council has commenced a trial of a self service payment kiosk at Realm. Feedback to date has indicated that most customers still prefer personal service, but use of the kiosk is expected to increase over time as local residents become aware and familiar with it.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 129 Carers Recognition
Maroondah City Council has taken all practicable measures to comply with its responsibilities outlined in the Carers Recognition Act 2012 (the Act). Council has promoted the principles of the Act to people in care relationships who receive Council services, to people in care relationships, and to the wider community by: Distributing printed material through relevant Council services Displaying posters at Council community venues, including the Home and Community Care Intake and Assessment Office, Food Services Sites, and the Social Inclusion and Wellbeing Centre Providing information regarding the Act to Maroondah Healthy Ageing Network, Maroondah Seniors Register, Senior Citizens Clubs and Older Peoples Groups Providing links to Victorian Government resource materials on Council’s website Providing Information regarding the Act in the Home and Community Care Active and Healthy Ageing Newsletter and Maroondah Healthy Ageing Network Chatterbox newsletter Providing written information regarding the Act within Home and Community Care Consumer Information Packs Distributing printed material to all Home and Community Care employees and volunteers
Council has taken all practicable measures to ensure employees, Council agents and volunteers working for Council are informed about the principles and obligations of the Act by including information on the care relationship in: Council induction and training programs for employees working in front-line positions with the general community; Internal information sessions for Home and Community Care employees and volunteer team meetings The provision of factsheets to all Home and Community Care employees and volunteers
Council has taken all practicable measures to review and modify policies, procedures and supports to include recognition of the carer relationship and has provided the following additional activities and resources to recognise the care relationship: Facilitation of the Maroondah Carer Support Group Facilitation of a Dementia Carers Support Group Facilitation of the Dementia Specific Planned Activity Group Program to support carers of people with dementia Identification and implementation of priority actions within the Home and Community Care Diversity Plan to respond to the increasing number of people with dementia residing in Maroondah Shared training/professional development opportunities with other local services responding to people with dementia and their carers Ongoing staff professional development Support carers of frail older people over 65 through the Council Short Term Case Management program Council Occupational Therapist will work with carers to solve and improve safety issues in the home and community.
130 | Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16
Disability Policy and Action Plan
In accordance with section 38 of the Disability Act 2008, Council must report on the implementation of the Disability Policy and Action Plan in its Annual Report. During 2015/16, Council undertook a wide range of activities in delivering on this Plan. These included: Developing initiatives that will encourage people with disabilities to participate in lifelong learning and community education programs. Continuing to raise awareness within the community of access and inclusion barriers, rights and inclusive practices. Continuing to work on establishing networks and strategic partnerships to build on programs that advocate on behalf of the diverse needs of older people with a disability. Continuing to create and promote resources and information that are responsive to the needs of people with disabilities and their families, seeking to ensure all Council publications and communication tools are accessible and Disability Discrimination Act compliant and WCAG 2.0AA accessibility compliance for online communication. Continuing to engage with people of all ages with a disability to inform Council policies and strategies. Continuing to promote a positive message regarding people with a disability in our imagery, social media, media releases, and when promoting programs and initiatives. Promoting Changing Places Changing Lives at both a State and Federal Government level. This project was awarded the overall 2015 National Award for Excellence in Local Government. Opening of three Changing Places facilities - two in Eastland and one at Realm. Undertaking significant capital works improvement projects within various community facilities, including accessibility improvements. Continuing to consider accessibility in development applications as well as larger developments such as the Ringwood Train Station and redevelopment of Eastland. Undertaking a review of Council’s employment and volunteer recruitment procedures to ensure best practice for access and inclusion. Hg information and training to managers and team leaders for the recruitment and training of staff and volunteers with a disability. Identifying opportunities for older persons with a disability to increase accessibility and participation opportunities for education and employment. Commencing to work with National Disability Recruitment Coordinator and EACH Employment Services. Exploring opportunities to increase the levels of employment for people with disabilities through regular contact with all Disability Support Employment Agencies. Commencing development of an initiative to address bullying and stigma for young people with disabilities. Hosting information forums to assist clients in transition to the National Disability Insurance Scheme. Contributing submissions on the progress of the Victoria Disability Transport Standards and Accessible Public Transport Plan, and the State Budget. Creating a hoarding network to enable the Metropolitan Fire Brigade, Victoria Police and Council service areas to share information and resources. Offering new social connections for the community at Realm through the library program, ArtSpace, learning spaces and café area. Completing a Physical Activity Strategy that features a dedicated section focused on the barriers to participation and opportunities for people with a disability. Commencing development of a Youth Plan 2016-2020 encompassing the needs of young people and their families living with a disability. Facilitating a review of current Home and Community Care (HACC) processes with a greater focus on programs that cater for carers needs. Promoting participation in Council recreation, arts, leisure and cultural activities and events. Developing strategies to ensure carers have access to relevant information and programs. Advertising for new members for Maroondah's Disability Advisory Committee, which has helped raise the profile of the Committee.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 131 Documents to be made available for public inspection
Council is committed to open and transparent governance. Section 222 of the Local Government Act 1989 (the Act) entitles any person to inspect and take copies where appropriate (subject to applicable fees, if any) of prescribed documents and records. Pursuant to clause 11 of the Local Government (General) Regulations 2004, the following are prescribed documents and records that were accessible at the Council offices during normal working hours from 1 July 2015 to 22 October 2015.
1) Details of current allowances fixed for the Mayor and Councillors 2) Ranges of senior employees’ remuneration 3) Details of overseas or interstate travel undertaken in an official capacity by Councillors or any Council employee in the previous 12 months 4) Names of Councillors who submitted a return of interest during the financial year and the dates the returns were submitted 5) Names of Employees of the Council who were required to and did submit a return of interest during the financial year and the dates the returns were submitted 6) Register of interests kept under section 81 of the Act 7) Record of persons who inspect the register of interests (nb. limited inspection rights) 8) List of all Special Committees established by Council and the purpose for which each committee was established 9) List of all Special Committees established by Council which were abolished or ceased to function during the financial year 10) Minutes of meetings of Special Committees established under section 86 of the Act and held in the previous twelve months 11) Register of delegations kept under sections 87 and 89 of the Act 12) Submissions received under section 223 of the Act during the previous twelve months 13) Agreements to establish regional libraries under section 196 of the Act 14) Register of leases entered into by Council 15) Register of authorised employees appointed under section 224 of the Act 16) A listing of donations and grants made by Council during the financial year including the names of recipients and the amounts received 17) The names of organisations and the amounts paid in membership fees to organisations of which Council was a member during the financial year 18) Register of contracts that Council entered into without engaging in a competitive process valued at $150,000 or more, for goods and services and $200,000 or more, for carrying out of works 19) Register of election campaign donation returns 20) Written record of an Assembly of Councillors 21) Annual Report – available online 22) Budget for current financial year – available online 23) Council agenda and minutes for the last 12 months – available online 24) Councillors’ Code of Conduct – available online 25) Council Plan – available online 26) Councillors’ Expenses/Entitlements Policy – available online 27) Local Laws operative within Maroondah – available online 28) Procurement Policy – available online 29) Public Notices – available online 30) Register of election campaign donation returns – available online
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The Local Government (General) Regulations 2015 were proclaimed and commenced on 23 October. From that date to 30 June 2016, the following prescribed documents and records that were accessible.
For the purposes of section 222 of the Act, the following are prescribed documents if they are not published on the Internet website of the Council (a) A document containing details of overseas or interstate travel (other than interstate travel by land for less than 3 days) undertaken in an official capacity by any Councillor or member of Council staff in the previous 12 months, including- (i) the name of the Councillors or member of Council staff; and (ii) the date on which the travel began and ended; and (iii) the destination of the travel; and (iv) the purpose of the travel; and (v) the total cost to the Council of the travel, including accommodation costs; (b) the agendas for, and minutes of, ordinary and special meetings held in the previous 12 months which are kept under section 93 of the Act, other than those agendas and minutes relating to a part of a meeting which was closed to members of the public under section 89 of the Act and are confidential information within the meaning of section 77(2) of the Act; (c) the minutes of meetings of special committees established under section 86 of the Act and held in the previous 12 months, other than those minutes relating to a part of a meetings which was closed to members of the public under section 89 of the Act and are confidential information within the meaning of section 77(2) of the Act; (d) a register of delegations kept under sections 87(1) and 98(4) of the Act, including the dates on which the last reviews took place under sections 86(6) and 98(6) respectively, of the Act took place; (e) a document containing details of all leases involving land which were entered into by the Council as the lessor, including the lessee and the terms and the value of the lease; (f) a register maintained under section 224(1A) of the Act of authorised officers appointed under that section; (g) a list of donations and grants made by the Council in the previous 12 months, including the names of persons or bodies which, have received a donation or grant and the amount of each donation or grant;
In accordance with Section 222 of the Local Government Act 1989 inspection of these documents can be arranged by contacting Council’s Governance Team on (03) 9298 4211. These documents are available for inspection at the City Offices, Braeside Avenue, Ringwood. The documents may be viewed, but not removed, and some are also available online.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 133 Domestic animal management
The Domestic Animals Act 1994 requires Council to prepare a Domestic Animal Management Plan and provide an evaluation of its implementation of the Plan.
Council has reviewed Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 -2017 and continues to promote and support responsible pet ownership through the provisions of the Domestic Animal Management Plan. The plan is in a format which is required by and allows ease of annual reporting to the Department of Environment and Primary Industries (DEPI).
Since Council adopted an order for dogs to be kept on leash except in designated off leash areas and a dawn-to-dusk curfew for cats in 2011, there has been generally wide community acceptance of the provisions, particularly given the broad spread of off leash areas provided. There has also been a significant measurable decline in the number of cat nuisance complaints since the introduction of the cat curfew in conjunction with Councils cat trapping hire program. Council continues to monitor and promote the requirements of the order. Responsible pet ownership programs continue to ensure that the community is aware all aspects of responsible pet ownership. Activities have included: Distribution of educational material to animal owners Patrols by Animal Management Officers to engage with dog owners (including after hours and weekend patrols) Engagement with Animal Owners at community events including Maroondah Festival and “Dorset Reserve Project” project activities. Promotion of animal desexing service through voucher program. Successful prosecution of cases where dog owners have failed to act responsibly. Continued review of nominated off leash areas to ensure community needs are met. Installation of signs/bollards/footpath decals to remind dog owners of ‘on-lead’ requirements and the requirement to clean up after their dog. Encouraging responsible dog ownership through provision of bag carriers for appropriate disposal of dog litter, dog leads, “Walkies” maps etc
Other activities have included: ‘Dorset Reserve Project’ where one of the key focuses was to address the issue of dog litter impacting on water quality of the Dandenong Creek. Working with Council's pound provider to deliver the ‘Pets in Peril Program’ to families subject to domestic violence. Reviewing permit requirements for excess animals and ensuring that these requirements are met. Educating domestic animal businesses to ensure they are compliant with relevant Codes of Practice Ensuring that animal registrations from all sources are properly/efficiently captured (e.g. sales from domestic animal businesses) and ensuring databases are up to date. Extension and improvement of cat trapping hire program. Rolling out and reviewing electronic registration system for animals on Councils website, making it easier for dog and cat owners to keep their pets registered and details up to date. Researched and collated community interest in Council constructing a fenced dog park. Progressed reporting to Council with outcomes. Approval given to design, consult and construct with budget allocated for the project.
Food Act Ministerial Directions
In accordance with section 7E of the Food Act 1984, Council is required to publish a summary of any Ministerial Directions received during the financial year in its annual report. No such Ministerial Directions were received by Council during the 2015/16 financial year.
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Freedom of Information requests
The Freedom of Information Act 1982 (the Act) provides the right for individuals to access information held by Council, with a number of exemptions.
The Act has four basic principles: 1) Local governments are required to publish information about the documents they hold, particularly those which affect members of the public in their dealings with Council. 2) Each person has a legally enforceable right to access information, limited only by exemptions necessary for the protection of the public interest and the private and business affairs of persons from whom information is collected by Council. 3) People may appeal against a decision not to give access to information or not to amend a personal record. 4) People may request inaccurate, incomplete, out of date or misleading information in their personal records be amended.
Pursuant to the Act sections 65AA ‘Report by Council’, and section 64(3) the following information is supplied relating to Freedom of Information applications for the period 1 July 2015 to 30 June 2016.
Freedom of information requests 2015/16 2014/15 2013/14 2012/13 2011/12 2010/11 Total number of new requests 10 6 8 12 13 7 Access granted in full 6 2 4 10 9 - Access granted in part 2 2 2 - - 3 Other ------Access denied in full 1 2 2 - 4 - Requests still under 1 - - 2 - - consideration Number of reviews by FOI - 1 1 - 1 - Commissioner sought (Internal Reviews prior to 2012/13) Appeals lodged with VCAT ------Notices served pursuant to ------section 12(1) of the Act Occasions where disciplinary ------action was taken against any officer regarding the administration of this Act Application fees collected $244,80 $132.50 $205.60 $301.20 $268.40 $167.30 Charges collected $30 $88 $100 $10 $3.60 $0
No other facts are relevant pursuant to section 64(3)(ia) to (j) of the Act. Freedom of information requests must be made in writing and be accompanied by a $27.20 application fee. Applicants should also indicate how they would like to receive the information. Under legislation, Council must decide if the information will be provided within 45 days.
All enquiries relating to accessing documents under freedom of information should be directed to Council’s Governance Team. The name and designation of an officer with authority to make a decision in relation to a request is Peter Tully, Governance Advisor who can be contacted on (03) 9298 4211. The Freedom of Information Officer made all decisions on requests.
Information regarding Freedom of Information including an outline of the process, initial application fee and application form is published on Council’s website at: http://www.maroondah.vic.gov.au
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 135 Local Laws
Local Laws (as at 30 June 2016) Local Law The objectives of Local Law No. 7 - Meetings Procedure & Use of Common No. 7 Seal are to regulate the: Meetings proceedings of Ordinary and Special Meetings of the Maroondah City Procedure Council and Use of election of the Mayor and Acting Chairman Common use of the Common Seal of the Maroondah City Council and Seal proceedings of special committees.
Local Law No. 7 has been amended and all changes have been incorporated. Local Law No. 9 is an amending local law that dictates the changes that have been made. Local Law The objectives of Local Law No 11 - General Local Law are to: No. 11- revoke Local Laws 8 and 10 made by Council General provide for and assure equitable, orderly and enjoyable use by people of Local Law community facilities, including roads protect Council Property and other community assets from loss or unnecessary or avoidable damage support provision by Council of a safe, clean and healthy environment in areas under its control and management provide generally for the peace, order and good government of the Municipal District.
This Local Law came in to operation on 1 January 2016. Local Law Local Law No 9 is an amending local law designed to update Local Law No 7. No. 9 - To Changes were incorporated to: amend Local conform with recent legislative changes to the Local Government Act 1989 Law No 7 - enhance the opportunities for more debate and participation at Council Meetings Meetings Procedure incorporate relatively minor changes to processes. and Use of Common Local Law No 9 was adopted by Council and came into operation on 1 Seal September 2010.
Privacy
Maroondah City Council has adopted a Privacy Policy to regulate the use and access by Council to the personal information and health information that it collects from both its residents and clients.
To provide services all Councils are required to collect and use personal, confidential and sensitive information of individuals. Maroondah is required to balance the rights of individuals to have controls over the use of their personal information to that of ensuring that the right information is available for services to operate and function.
Both the Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014 (the Act) and the Health Records Act 2001 require all Victorian Councils to comply with a series of privacy principles that are tailored for either the collection and use of personal information or the collection and use of health information. Maroondah is fully committed to its privacy obligations.
Council has adopted a Privacy Policy to regulate the use and access by Council to the personal information and health information that it collects from both its residents and clients.
Maroondah City Council has always regarded privacy as an important issue and has appointed a Privacy Officer to assist in the handling of any enquiries. Peter Tully can be contacted on (03) 9298 4211 or via email [email protected]
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Procurement
Council’s Procurement Policy aims to provide a framework that ensures Maroondah City Council’s purchasing procedures and processes are undertaken in a manner conversant with occupational health and safety, risk management practices, relevant legislation, purchasing principles and Council’s corporate objectives.
This Policy establishes the framework within which Council employees undertake the purchasing of goods and services for the efficient and effective functioning of their service area.
In accordance with this policy, Council did not enter into any contracts valued at $150,000 or more during the 2015/16 financial year without first engaging in a competitive process.
Protected disclosure
The Protected Disclosure Act 2012 (the Act) commenced operation in February 2013 establishing an Independent Broad-based Anti-Corruption Commission (IBAC). The purpose of the Act is to encourage and facilitate the disclosure of any improper conduct. Any person who has reasonable grounds to believe that improper or corrupt conduct has occurred may make a disclosure. For Local Government, disclosures can be made about Councillors and any Council employees directly to IBAC. Protection is provided by the Act to those persons within an organisation disclosing corrupt behaviour.
Maroondah City Council recognises the value of transparency and accountability in its administrative and management practices. Council is committed to the aims and objectives of the Protected Disclosure Act 2012. Procedures in handling disclosures have been adopted to comply with the provisions of the Act. Copies of these procedures are available on Council’s website at: http://www.maroondah.vic.gov.au
During 2015/16, Council has not received any disclosures nor have any matters be transmitted to IBAC to Council’s knowledge.
Road management
In accordance with section 22 of the Road Management Act 2004 (the Act), Council must publish a copy or summary of any Ministerial direction in its annual report. No such Ministerial Directions were received by Council during the financial year.
The Act provides that Council has a statutory obligation to inspect, maintain and repair a public road, and that a Road Management Plan (Plan) may be developed to set reasonable standards in relation to the performance of road management functions for the maintenance of its public roads and associated road related assets.
Maroondah City Council has adopted the 2013-2017 Road Management Plan to set reasonable standards in relation to the performance of road management functions, including the inspection, maintenance and repair of all Council's roads as listed in its Register of Public Roads.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 137 Victorian Local Government Indicators The Minister for Local Government, under the authority of the Local Government Act 1989, requires every Council to report on the following indicators.
Indicator Target Actual Results 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 2013/14 2012/13 Affordability/cost of Governance Average rates and charges per $1,599 $1,622 $1,544 $1,476 $1,419 assessment
The average revenue derived by Council out of general rates and garbage services for each property in the municipality.
Average rates and charges per residential $1,441 $1,468 $1,432 $1,387 $1,327 assessment
The average revenue derived by Council out of general rates and garbage services for each residential property in the municipality (i.e. excluding all commercial and industrial properties)
Sustainability Average liabilities per assessment12 $994 $990 $1,008 $543 $440
The average value for each property in the municipality of monies owed by Council at financial year-end in respect of the supply of goods and services, the provision of loans and the accrued costs of employee salaries and entitlements.
Operating result per assessment3 $84 $87 $346 $216 $213
The difference between the average operating revenue and average operating expenditure for each property in the municipality. Council rates and charges comprise the major part of its operating revenue. The operating result has been adjusted by excluding the revenue from property, infrastructure, plant and equipment not previously recognised and the expenditure in relation to disposal, obsolescence and adjustments in relation to property and infrastructure. This allows for a better basis of comparison.
Services Community satisfaction rating for overall 67 68 66 67 65 performance generally of Council4
Overall satisfaction with Council performance as rated by Maroondah City residents who were surveyed as part of Victorian Government commissioned independent state-wide community satisfaction survey.
Average operating expenditure per $2,450 $2,327 $2,222 $2,055 $2,048 assessment
The average cost of operating and maintaining all Council services to the community for each property in the municipality. This cost excludes the cost of acquiring or expanding its asset base used in the delivery of those services, but includes the costs of all administrative and governance services supporting that delivery.
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Indicator Target Actual Results 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 2013/14 2012/13 Infrastructure Average Capital expenditure per $773 $711 $1,068 $931 $395 assessment
The average cost for each property in the municipality of acquiring new assets and expanding, upgrading or renewing existing assets used in the delivery of all its services to the community.
Renewal gap 109% 96% 140% 117% 66%
The sum of all capital expenditure on renewal of existing infrastructure assets expressed as a percentage of the total depreciation charge on all Council infrastructure assets. Such annual depreciation charge is Council’s best estimate of the value of those assets ‘consumed’ during the year’s operations.
Renewal and maintenance gap 107% 97% 130% 113% 74%
The sum of all capital expenditure on renewal of existing infrastructure assets together with the annual costs of maintenance of all Council infrastructure assets expressed as a percentage of the total depreciation and maintenance charges on all such infrastructure assets.
Governance Community satisfaction rating for 59 56 57 59 54 Council’s Advocacy and Community Representation on key local issues3
Overall satisfaction with Council performance in advocacy and community representation as rated by Maroondah City residents who were surveyed as part of Victorian Government commissioned independent state-wide community satisfaction survey.
Community satisfaction rating for 57 58 55 57 54 Council’s Engagement in decision making on key local issues3
Overall satisfaction with Council performance in engaging the community in decision making on key local issues as rated by Maroondah City residents who were surveyed as part of Victorian Government commissioned independent state-wide community satisfaction survey.
Notes: 1 The average liabilities per assessment in 2014/15 increased by Council borrowing $24.2m to publicly fund the construction of Aquanation. 3 The actual 2012/13 result of $213 per assessment was better than the target result of $43 due to Council receiving an extra $4.6m of grant funds of which $3.6m related to capital projects. 4 A change in survey methodology means that 2012/13 results should be treated as the commencement of a new series.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 139 Victorian Local Government Performance Reporting Framework: Statement of service performance The following statement provides the results of the prescribed Local Government Performance Reporting Framework service performance indicators and measures, including explanation of any material variations. Please note that a change of less than +/- 3% compared with the previous year is not considered significant, and therefore not a material variation.
SERVICE PERFORMANCE Material Result Result Service/indicator/measure Measure expressed as: Variations 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 Aquatic Facilities Service standard User satisfaction with User satisfaction with how Optional measure aquatic facilities Council has performed on only. Not N/A N/A the provision of aquatic measured in facilities 2015/16. Expected range: N/A Service standard Health inspections of Number of health aquatic facilities inspections per Council 2 2 aquatic facility Expected range: 1 to 4 inspections Service standard Reportable safety incidents Number of WorkSafe at aquatic facilities reportable aquatic safety 6 0 incidents Expected range: 0 to 20 incidents Service cost Cost of indoor aquatic $ direct cost less any income facilities received of providing indoor $0 $0 aquatic facilities per visit Expected range: -$10 to $10 Service cost Cost of outdoor aquatic $ direct cost less any income facilities received of providing $8 $8 outdoor aquatic facilities per visit Expected range: -$5 to $50 Utilisation Utilisation of aquatic Number of visits to aquatic facilities facilities per head of 7 6 municipal population Expected range: 1 to 10 visits Animal Management Timeliness Time taken to action animal Number of days taken to 1 2 requests action animal requests Expected range: 1 to 10 days Service standard Animals reclaimed % of collected animals reclaimed 65% 63% Expected range: 40% to 90% Service cost Cost of animal management $ direct cost of the animal service management service per $32 $29 registered animal Expected range: $10 to $60 Health and safety Animal management Number of prosecutions prosecutions Expected range: 0 to 50 1 6 prosecutions
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SERVICE PERFORMANCE Material Result Result Service/indicator/measure Measure expressed as: Variations 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 Food Safety Timeliness Time taken to action food Number of days taken to 1 1 complaints action food complaints Expected range: 1 to 10 days Service standard Food safety assessments % of registered class 1 food premises and class 2 food premises that receive an 90% 100% annual food safety assessment Expected range: 60% to 100% Service cost Cost of food safety service $ direct cost of the food safety service per registered $668 $825 food premises Expected range: $500 to $1,200 Health and safety Critical and major non % of critical and major non compliance notifications compliance outcome notifications that are 92% 98% followed up by council Expected range: 70% to 100% Governance Transparency Council resolutions at % of Council resolutions meetings closed to the made at meetings closed to 14% 11% public the public Expected range: 0% to 25% Consultation and engagement Satisfaction rating out of 100 58 55 Satisfaction with community Expected range: 50 to 100 consultation & engagement Attendance Council attendance at % of Council attendance at Council meetings ordinary and special Council 88% 88% meetings Expected range: 80% to 100% Service cost Cost of governance $ direct cost of the governance service per $43,686 $43,136 councillor Expected range: $10,000 to $100,000 Decision making Satisfaction with Council Satisfaction rating out of 100 61 61 decisions Expected range: N/A Home and Community Care Timeliness Time taken to commence Number of days it has taken the HACC service for a new client to New measure in 12 N/A commence the HACC 2015/16. service Expected range: 1 to 30 days Service standard Compliance with % of Community Care Community care Common Common Standards 100% 100% Standards expected outcomes met Expected range: 80% to 100%
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 141 SERVICE PERFORMANCE Material Result Result Service/indicator/measure Measure expressed as: Variations 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 Home and Community Care (continued...) Service cost Cost of domestic care $ cost of the domestic care New measure in $41 N/A service service per hour of service 2015/16. Expected range: $40 to $60 Service cost Cost of personal care $ cost of the personal care New measure in $46 N/A service service per hour of service 2015/16. Expected range: $40 to $60 Service cost Cost of respite care service $ cost of the respite care service per hour of service New measure in $42 N/A Expected range: $40 to $60 2015/16.
Participation Participation in HACC % of the municipal target service population that receive a 26% 23% HACC service Expected range: 10% to 40% Participation Participation in HACC % of the municipal target service by CALD people population in relation to 23% 24% CALD people that receive a HACC service Expected range: 10% to 40% Libraries Utilisation Library collection usage Number of library collection item loans per library 9 9 collection item Expected range: 1 to 10 items Resource standard The decrease in Standard of library % of the library collection this proportion collection that has been purchased in compared with the last 5 years 2014/15 is due to 79% 97% Expected range: 50% to reintroduction of 100% older stock when Realm was opened. Service cost Cost of library service $ direct cost of the library $3 $5 service per visit Expected range: $3 to $20 Participation The increased Active library members % of the municipal number of active population that are active members in library members Maroondah for 24% 17% Expected range: 10% to 50% 2015/16 can be attributed to opening of Realm Library Maternal and Child Health Satisfaction Participation in first MCH % of infants enrolled in the home visit MCH service who receive the 99% 97% first MCH home visit Expected range: 80% to 100% Service standard Infant enrolments in the % of infants enrolled in the MCH service MCH service 99% 97% Expected range: 90% to 110
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SERVICE PERFORMANCE Material Result Result Service/indicator/measure Measure expressed as: Variations 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 Maternal and Child Health (continued...) Service cost Cost of the MCH service $ cost of the MCH service New measure in per hour of service delivered $73 N/A 2015/16. Expected range: $50 to $200 Participation Participation in MCH service % of children enrolled who participate in the MCH 91% 84% services Expected range: 80% to 100% Participation Participation in MCH service % of Aboriginal children by Aboriginal children enrolled who participate in 118% 73% the MCH service Expected range: 80% to 100% Roads Satisfaction of use Sealed local road requests Number of sealed local road requests per 100 kilometres 72 61 of sealed local road Expected range: 0 to 200 requests Condition Sealed local roads below the % of sealed local roads that intervention level are below the renewal intervention level 99% 99% Expected range: 70% to 100%
Service cost Cost of sealed local road $ direct reconstruction cost reconstruction per square metre of sealed local roads reconstructed $140 $182 Expected range: $30 to $300
Service cost Cost of sealed local road $ direct resealing cost per resealing square metre of sealed local $24 $36 roads resealed Expected range: $5 to $30
Satisfaction Satisfaction with sealed local Satisfaction rating out of 100 68 69 roads Expected range: 50 to 100
Statutory Planning Timeliness Time taken to decide Days between receipt of a planning applications planning application and a decision on the application 29 days 27 days Expected range: 20 to 200 days
Service standard Planning applications % of planning application decided within 60 days decisions made within 60 days 84% 90% Expected range: 50% to 100%
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 143 SERVICE PERFORMANCE Material Result Result Service/indicator/measure Measure expressed as: Variations 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 Statutory Planning (continued...) Service cost Cost of statutory planning $ direct cost of the statutory service planning service per $1,424 $1,274 planning application Expected range: $500 to $5,000 Decision making Planning decisions upheld at % of decisions subject to VCAT review by VCAT that were 43% 76% not set aside Expected range: 20% to 100% Waste Collection Satisfaction Kerbside bin collection Number of kerbside bin requests collection requests per 1000 kerbside bin collection 56 64 households Expected range: 20 to 200 requests Service standard Kerbside collection bins Number of kerbside missed collection bins missed per 10,000 scheduled kerbside 2 3 collection bin lifts Expected range: 1 to 100 bins Service cost Cost of kerbside garbage $ direct cost of the kerbside collection service garbage bin collection service per kerbside garbage $101 $100 collection bin Expected range: $20 to $200 Service cost Cost of kerbside recyclables $ direct cost of the kerbside collection service recyclables collection $30 $31 service per kerbside recyclables collection bin Expected range: $10 to $100 Waste diversion Kerbside collection waste % of garbage, recyclables diverted from landfill and green organics collected 54% 55% from kerbside bins that is diverted from landfill Expected range: 20% to 80%
Please note: More detailed Council comments on 2015/16 LGPRF service performance indicator results will be available once data is released by the Victorian Government at: https://knowyourcouncil.vic.gov.au/councils/maroondah
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Summary of Council Plan action progress Over the past year, Council has made the following progress toward the achievement of Year 3 priority actions identified in the Council Plan 2013-2017:
A SAFE HEALTHY AND ACTIVE COMMUNITY
Action Title What was achieved Responsibility Status
Complete construction, open Construction of Aquanation was completed in July 2015 and the facility Operations, Achieved and commence operations at was officially opened on Friday 14 August 2015. The centre opened its Infrastructure Aquanation in Spring 2015 doors to the public on Saturday 15 August. The $52.2 million facility and Leisure features a 66.5 metre pool and 10 metre diving tower, a warm water pool, a dedicated learn to swim pool, large toddler and children’s leisure play pool, two indoor water slides, a large gym with three separate group fitness rooms, child care facilities and a café. In support of this project, Council received $10 million in funding from the Australian Government as part of the Regional Development Australia Fund; $3 million from the Victorian Government through the Community Facility Funding Program; $200,000 from Bendigo Bank and $20,000 from EastLink. Work in partnership to Council successfully worked in partnership with six eastern region Operations, Achieved develop the Melbourne East Council’s, Regional Development Victoria and Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Sport and Recreation Victoria to develop and finalise the Melbourne East Regional Sport and and Leisure Strategy Recreation Strategy. The Strategy has been developed to support and guide Melbourne East Councils and stakeholders in the planning and delivery of regional level sport and recreation facilities and shared recreation trails for the next 20 years. Council formally endorsed the Strategy in May 2016. Complete an Indoor Netball Council completed a study during 2015/16 aimed at identifying options for Operations, Achieved Feasibility Study the location, scope and cost for an indoor netball facility. Assessment of Infrastructure eight potential sites was undertaken during 2015 (HE Parker Reserve, The and Leisure Rings, Parkwood, Norwood Secondary College, Ringwood Secondary College, Eastfield Park, Dorset Reserve and Peter Vergers Reserve). HE Parker Reserve in Heathmont was assessed as the most suitable site. The study estimated that it would cost $12 million to construct a stadium and associated infrastructure. As part of the 2015 Federal Election campaign and in response to advocacy from Council, the Coalition Government committed $10.5 million for a new regional netball centre in Maroondah.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 145
Action Title What was achieved Responsibility Status Complete development of During 2015/16, works commenced on a new athletics pavilion and track Operations, Commenced A.C. Robertson Athletics upgrade at Proclamation Park in Ringwood. Upon completion, the new $1.7 Infrastructure Pavilion million multipurpose pavilion will include a multi-purpose room; change and Leisure rooms and toilets; gym; and a kitchen. Design of the new pavilion was completed in 2015/16 and construction commenced in January 2016. Construction is scheduled for completion by September 2016.The track replacement, coupled with the pavilion upgrade project, will provide Maroondah with a first class regional athletics facility for the whole community to use. The upgraded facility will provide accessible and safe amenities for a range of user groups including the Ringwood Athletic Centre, Special Committee of Council; Ringwood Athletic Club; Ringwood Little Athletic Centre; Proclamation Park Walkers and Ringwood Professional Athletics Club. The pavilion works and track development has been funded with $2 million from Council’s Capital Works program, $650,000 from the Victorian Government Sport & Recreation Victoria Grants Program and $100,000 from the AC Robertson User Group.
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A PROSPEROUS AND LEARNING COMMUNITY
Action Title What was achieved Responsibility Status
Complete construction and Realm, Council’s new library, cultural, knowledge and innovation centre Planning and Achieved commence operations at commenced operations on 29 October 2015.The $24 million state-of-the-art Community Realm, the new Ringwood facility incorporates a library with areas to engage children and young Library, Learning and Cultural people; a comprehensive Council service centre, ArtSpace, the Centre for Centre, in late 2015 Regional Knowledge and Innovation, BizHub business resource centre, a cafe, reading spaces, and a local history display. Over 150 community learning programs have been delivered at Realm since its opening, and visitation is on target to exceed 500,000 visits per annum.
Advocate for and facilitate The Victorian Government’s $66 million upgrade of Ringwood Station and Planning and Achieved private sector investment in Bus Interchange was completed in January 2016. The $700 million Stage 5 Community the Ringwood Metropolitan redevelopment of Eastland Shopping Centre was delivered, with Stage 5A Activity Centre opening to the public on 29 October 2015, and Stage 5B launched on 5 May 2016. Investment in the Ringwood MAC continued to grow - as at 30 June 2016, there are currently 47 completed, 2 under construction and 26 permit approved development projects in the Ringwood MAC representing 148,527sqm of floorspace and 1392 residential dwellings with a total value of 1,212.93million. Council is also continuing to work with the Metropolitan Planning Authority on the refresh of the Ringwood MAC Structure Plan with community engagement undertaken in May and June 2016.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 147 A VIBRANT AND CULTURALLY RICH COMMUNITY
Action Title What was achieved Responsibility Status Engage the community in the Preliminary community engagement commenced for the design of a new Operations Achieved design of a new Croydon Croydon Town Square. In February 2016, a place audit was undertaken to and Town Square inform design principles around the future Town Square in Croydon. Infrastructure Numerous on site observations and conversations were conducted to capture a comprehensive understanding of how key stakeholders and the general community currently use and would like to use the area proposed for the new town square. Complete a Karralyka Council completed a study during 2015/16 aimed at determining the future Operations Achieved operational review and operational model for Karralyka and understanding issues with the existing and feasibility study building and site. The study also explored potential options and costs for Infrastructure redevelopment and refurbishment. Concept designs and costings have been developed to address issues with the building and to cater for future demand. The report was presented to Council and a further study has commenced to provide a comparative analysis on the forecasted return on investment through different models and a business plan.
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A CLEAN, GREEN AND SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITY
Action Title What was achieved Responsibility Status
Develop a Maroondah Open A new Maroondah Open Space Strategy and Policy was prepared and placed Operations Achieved Space Strategy 2016-2021 on public exhibition. The draft Policy outlined 15 policy positions to guide the and development and use of public Council-run open space in Maroondah. It Infrastructure positions how open space is managed, developed, protected and promoted. The draft Strategy has six main directions that align with the Maroondah 2040 Community Vision. These are: valuing open space; creating new forms of open space; safe, healthy and active people and space; well designed and maintained spaces; accessible and connected spaces; and greening the City's spaces. The Strategy and Policy will be formally considered by Council in August 2016. Continue to rollout the During 2015/16, this project resulted in 858 street lights on residential streets Planning and Achieved installation of energy efficient being changed from mercury vapour to energy efficient LEDs. This brings the Community streetlights across total number of street lights changed in the City of Maroondah to 1862 and Maroondah completes one-third of the project. The streetlights changed over during 2015/16 are expected to result in greenhouse gas savings of 368 tonnes of carbon dioxide. A new Maroondah Sustainability Strategy was prepared during 2015/16 aimed at progressing towards the clean, green and sustainable vision in Maroondah 2040: Our future together. Its central aspiration is to lay solid foundations for progress towards that Vision by aligning Council’s culture over the next four years to one where sustainability is integral to the organisation’s business. Council plans to lead the way to greater sustainability by example and through engagement, partnerships and communication with the broader community, which is the key to achieving the Vision. Development of the Strategy involved extensive background research along with engagement with the community and a range of stakeholder groups, in particular, the Maroondah Environment Advisory Committee. The Strategy was placed on public exhibition in June 2016 and will be formally considered by Council for adoption in July 2016.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 149 Action Title What was achieved Responsibility Status
Complete development of the A new Maroondah Sustainability Strategy was prepared during 2015/16 Planning and Achieved Maroondah Sustainability aimed at progressing towards the clean, green and sustainable vision in Community Strategy 2016-2020 Maroondah 2040: Our future together. Its central aspiration is to lay solid foundations for progress towards that Vision by aligning Council’s culture over the next four years to one where sustainability is integral to the organisation’s business. Council plans to lead the way to greater sustainability by example and through engagement, partnerships and communication with the broader community, which is the key to achieving the Vision. Development of the Strategy involved extensive background research along with engagement with the community and a range of stakeholder groups, in particular, the Maroondah Environment Advisory Committee. The Strategy was placed on public exhibition in June 2016 and will be formally considered by Council for adoption in July 2016.
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AN ACCESSIBLE AND CONNECTED COMMUNITY
Action Title What was achieved Responsibility Status Accelerate the footpath During 2015/16, Council accelerated its footpath construction program Operations, Achieved construction improvement with an additional budget allocation. Programmed works commenced in Infrastructure program July 2015 and will continue until June 2017. Works were completed along and Leisure sections of Mt Dandenong Road, Warrien Road, Bayswater Road, Kalinda Road, Notlen Street and Market Street. Undertake traffic During 2015/16, Council commenced works to install traffic signals at the Operations, Commenced signalisation works at the intersection of Bedford Road and Great Ryrie Street in Ringwood to Infrastructure intersection of Bedford Road improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety. When completed, key features and Leisure and Great Ryrie Street of the works will include installation of traffic signals at the intersection, a new signalised pedestrian crossing on Bedford Road near Rosewarne Lane and linkage with the Bedford Road level crossing, pedestrian footpath and pram crossing construction, removal of the existing pedestrian refuge on Bedford Road near Rosewarne Lane, street light upgrades, asphalt overlay and line marking works. Completion of the works is contingent on the finalisation of level crossing removal works at Mountain Highway and Scoresby Road in Bayswater scheduled for December 2016. The $1 million project was fully funded by the Australian Government under the Commonwealth Infrastructure Investment Program. Accelerate the disability The three year footpath construction improvement program has been Operations, Achieved footpath access accelerated to a two year program of works. This has also included an Infrastructure improvement program acceleration of the disability footpath access component of the overall and Leisure footpath construction program, with an additional budget allocation. Programmed works commenced in July 2015 and will continue until June 2017.
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AN ATTRACTIVE, THRIVING AND WELL BUILT COMMUNITY
Action Title What was achieved Responsibility Status
Oversee the completion of The new Ringwood Town Square was completed and opened to the Planning and Achieved construction and opening of community on 29 October 2015. The new Town Square aims to provide a Community the Ringwood Town Centre central active community meeting place for people to gather, enjoy and celebrate. Some of the high profile restaurant tenants in the precinct include Jimmy Grants, HuxtaBurger, Hunter and Barrel, and Paco Taco’s.
During November and December 2015, a weekly twilight market was held in the Town Square forecourt combining a mix of independent designer homewares, art, fashion, accessories, boutique craft, food and wine products. The 'Lighting of the Christmas Tree' event in early December was also highly successful. The Town Square was also the official live broadcast site for the Vision Australia Carols by Candlelight held on Christmas Eve with live stream of the show on the big screen. Commence flood mitigation Further flood mitigation works were undertaken during 2016 in the Acacia Operations, Achieved works in the Ringwood Drainage Catchment to prevent possible future flooding issues. The Infrastructure Metropolitan Activity Centre drainage catchment forms part of the North West Residential Precinct in and Leisure and in the Power Street the Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre which has seen significant expansion and development in recent years. Fully funded by Council, the Drainage Catchment project involved developing a new water sensitive urban design rain garden aimed at removing rubbish, sediment and treating water before it reaches the Mullum Mullum Creek. Once works in the catchment are completed, the new system will cater for a 1 in 100 year storm and reduce pressure on existing drainage infrastructure. A further stage of the project will commence in 2016/17 involving the construction of a new drain between Nelson and Bourke Streets. A public art project will also be included to visually connect the creek, streetscape works and drainage upgrades.
Further flood mitigation works in the Power Street drainage catchment in Croydon North were also undertaken during 2015/16. These works involved the construction of a new drain along the Melbourne Water easement from Knee Lane through to Yarra Road.
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Action Title What was achieved Responsibility Status Develop and commence Council’s existing flood modelling provides information that is currently Operations, Achieved implementation of a strategy being applied through a report and consent process, as well as existing Infrastructure to protect residential and town planning processes. The next stage is to implement this information and Leisure commercial floor levels from into a Special Building Overlay (SBO) as part of a planning scheme amendment. It is anticipated that the SBO planning scheme amendment flooding will take a number of years to complete and implement. Complete development of Over the past two years, Council has developed a new housing strategy to Planning and Achieved the Maroondah Housing establish future policy directions and guide future residential Community Strategy development. The process of developing this Strategy involved developing a holistic body of background research along with considerable engagement with the community and key stakeholders. The Strategy sets out a vision for housing in Maroondah, addresses issues facing the municipality and sets out key directions and priority actions to address these challenges. The Strategy was formally adopted by Council in June 2016.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 153 AN INCLUSIVE AND DIVERSE COMMUNITY
Action Title What was achieved Responsibility Status Complete redevelopment of During 2015/16, the design of the new $2.7m East Ringwood Multipurpose Operations, Commenced the East Ringwood Multi- Pavilion was completed, the demolition of the original sporting pavilion Infrastructure purpose Pavilion was demolished and construction of the new pavilion commenced. The and Leisure pavilion is scheduled for completion in early 2017. Develop a Maroondah Maroondah City Council last endorsed a Reconciliation Policy Statement in Planning and Commenced Reconciliation Plan 2016 2008. A new Reconciliation Action Plan is under development that Community embraces the official Reconciliation Australia model with the intention that it be officially endorsed by Reconciliation Australia. A working group was established in January 2016 with broad representation from indigenous and community organisations, along with Council officers. The working group will oversee the development of the Action Plan. A broad consultation program will be undertaken in the development of the Plan to identify and address issues important to the community. It is expected that the Plan will be presented to Council for consideration in mid 2017. Review and implement This project involved the provision of waste management educational Corporate Achieved educational material on material to community members from culturally and linguistic diverse Services waste management for communities in conjunction with the Migrant Information Centre, culturally and linguistically Whitehorse City Council and Deakin University. A wide number of households were visited as part of the project with educational materials diverse communities in multi supplied. Translators have been involved in these visits to explain the purpose of the materials and respond to any questions. Interactive group sessions with the Chin community have also been held, along with a collaborative art project.
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A WELL GOVERNED AND EMPOWERED COMMUNITY
Action Title What was achieved Responsibility Status Develop a Human Resources Council has developed a new Workforce People and Culture Strategy. The Corporate Achieved Strategy 2016-2020 to cater Strategy aims to provide an organisational road map for workforce people Services for emerging needs and culture services, activities and systems over a four year timeframe. Council recognises the need to attract quality people and to optimise their performance and retention in order to continue to provide vital services to the community by the organisation. Furthermore, implementing active workforce strategies in an environment of continuous change, potential uncertainty, continuous improvement (including innovation) requires a considered approach. This new Strategy will be launched and implemented across Council during 2016/17.
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Glossary
Advisory Committee: Specialist appointees who form a committee that provides advice and recommendations to Maroondah City Council on matters relating to the delivery of strategies, services and activities. Advocacy: To provide support to a cause or to make public recommendation. Aquahub: Formerly known as Croydon Leisure and Aquatic Centre, Aquahub comprises a fully equipped gym, group fitness studio, cycle room, multipurpose room, multisport indoor stadium, family leisure pool, 25m pool, warm water program pool, spa and sauna. Aquanation: A state of the art regional and leisure centre in Ringwood that incorporates the State Diving Centre, a 66.5 metre 10 lane swimming and diving pool, warm water pool, a dedicated learn to swim pool, a large gym with three separate group fitness rooms, dry diving training room, child care facilities and a cafe. Auditor-General: An independent parliamentary officer appointed by legislation to examine and report to State Parliament and the community on the management of public sector resources and provide assurance on the financial integrity of Victoria’s system of government. Asset: An asset is a facility or part of a facility that has value, enables a service to be provided and has an economic life greater than 12 months. Asset renewal and maintenance gap: The variance between what councils need to spend on their existing infrastructure to maintain or renew it to its original service potential or useful life, and what Councils actually spend on renewal and maintenance. Benchmarking: Qualitative and quantitative comparisons with similar services/service organisations that provide a benchmark for service standards and therefore, ensure Council is providing services to the municipality at or above the best possible service quality standards. Best Practice: To adopt or develop standards, actions or processes for the provision of goods, services or facilities which are equal to or better than the best available on a state, national or international scale. Best Value: An approach to Local Government service delivery which includes community input, effective service delivery and cost efficiency as key service outcomes. Victorian Government legislation requires all Victorian councils to review their services and adopt a model that consider six principles. Black Spot program: A road safety program to identify and raise awareness of hazardous spots on Victoria’s roads initiated by the State and Australian Governments. Biodiversity: Different plants, animals and microorganisms make a variety of life incorporating their genes and the ecosystems. Capital Works: Projects undertaken to establish, renew, expand, upgrade and dispose of assets owned by Maroondah City Council in the community. Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006: Legislation created to protect and promote human rights. It sets out freedoms, rights and responsibilities. Community Grants: Council funding made available to local not-for-profit community groups and organisations to assist in the provision of activities and services not available through state, federal and private resources. Community Engagement: defined as the range of opportunities for public involvement in Council decision-making, relationship building and community strengthening. Community engagement is achieved when the community is and feels part of a project, process or relationship. Council adopted principles and practices regarding community engagement are outlined in the Community Engagement Policy 2015. Community Satisfaction Survey: A Victorian Government survey conducted annually to gauge community satisfaction levels with Council services. Continuous improvement: The process that ensures ongoing review and improvement practices are built into operational activities. Corporate governance: Council’s responsibility for the economic and ethical performance of the municipality. Council: The collective group of nine elected councillors that set the strategic direction for Maroondah City Council, monitor organisational performance, liaise with stakeholders and ensure operational compliance.
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 223 Council Plan 2013-2017: A four year plan which provides the framework and outlines Council’s medium-term strategies to work toward the outcome areas set out in Maroondah 2040: Our future together. Councillor: A member of the community elected in accordance with the Local Government Act 1989 to represent the residents of a ward within the municipality, as a member of Council. Croydon Memorial Pool: A seasonal outdoor heated 50m pool, with toddlers’ pool, grand stand and shaded lawn areas. Current Assets: Assets where Council expects to receive the future economic benefit within the next 12 months unless the asset is restricted from being exchanged or used to settle a liability for at least 12 months after the reporting date. Current Liabilities: Liabilities where Council expects to fulfil its obligation within the next 12 months unless the Council does not have an unconditional right to defer settlement of the liability for at least 12 months after reporting date. Development Contributions Plan: A plan developed by Council that identifies financial contributions required from developers towards the provision of shared community infrastructure to service new developments and communities. Items or infrastructure funded by way of a Development Contributions Plan may include (but are not limited to) the construction or widening of roads, provision of bus stops, public parks and recreation facilities, provision of stormwater drainage and community centres. Dorset Golf: A secluded 18 hole public golf course located in Trawalla Rd, Croydon offering a fully stocked golf shop and golf lessons. Environment Protection Authority: A statutory authority established under the Environment Protection Act 1970 to ensure the protection and control of air, land and water pollution, and industrial noise. Equity: The residual interest in the assets of Council after deductions of its liabilities, which is made up of accumulated surplus and reserves. Total equity is also equal to net assets. Feasibility study: An analysis and evaluation of a proposed project to determine if it is technically feasible, is feasible within the estimated costs, and will be profitable. Studies also often consider the potential impact of the project and discuss options. Governance: How Council operates as a decision-making body, its relationship with the administration and the ways that Council engages with their community. Home and Community Care: Council service which assists elderly and disabled residents with essential house cleaning and daily living tasks so that they can remain living independently in their own homes. Indigenous: Originating in a particular geographic region or environment and native to the area and/or relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Infrastructure: Facilities required for the functioning of the community, such as roads, drains, footpaths, public buildings and waste systems. Karralyka: An architecturally award-winning function venue and theatre located on Mines Road, Ringwood East. The venue offers outstanding facilities and services for live theatre, corporate events, wedding receptions, private celebrations, conventions and exhibitions. Liabilities: Future sacrifices of economic benefits that Council is presently obliged to make to other entities as a result of past transactions or other past events. Local Laws: The laws adopted by Council that prohibit, regulate and control activities, events, practices and behaviours within Maroondah. Local Government Act 1989: This Victorian Government legislation outlines the intention for Councils to provide a democratic and efficient system of local government in Victoria. It provides Councils with the authority to meet the needs of their communities and provides the basis for an accountable system of local governance in Victoria. Recent amendments to the Act came into operation on 18 April 2014 to enable state-wide implementation of the new Local Government Performance Reporting Framework. Local Government Amendment (Performance Reporting and Accountability) Act 2014: Sets out a financial planning and reporting framework for local government, that commenced from the 2014/15 financial year.
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Local Government Performance Reporting Framework: A Victorian Government planning and reporting framework that seeks to provide a comprehensive picture of Council performance. The framework comprises four indicator sets: service performance, financial performance, sustainable capacity and governance & management.. Local Government (Planning and Reporting) Regulations 2014: Supports the operation of the new Local Government Performance Reporting Framework for Councils under the Local Government Act 1989. Local Planning Policy Framework: The Framework provides the strategic basis for land use planning as controlled by the Maroondah Planning Scheme. The Framework consists of the Municipal Strategic Statement together with local planning policies. Maroondah 2040: Our future together: A shared strategic vision for the future of Maroondah developed by Council and the community developed in 2013/14. The strategic framework within this new community vision has provided the strategic basis for all of Council’s service delivery and operations since 1 July 2014. Maroondah Federation Estate: A community, cultural and arts facility located on the site of the former Ringwood Primary School in Greenwood Avenue, Ringwood. The facility incorporates the Maroondah Art Gallery, a cultural centre, a lifestyle centre, the ‘AMazing Space’ accessible playspace, landscaped gardens, tree sculptures, Sensory Time Trail, and a courtyard. Maroondah in Focus: Council’s quarterly newspaper which provides residents with information about Council activities. The publication is delivered to all residents and businesses within Maroondah. Mission Statement: The overall corporate philosophy that articulates how the Maroondah 2040 community vision will be achieved. Municipal Emergency Coordination Centre (MECC): The centre responsible for the coordination of the provision of human and material resources within the municipality, during response and recovery phases of emergencies. Municipal Strategic Statement (MSS): Outlines the key land use and development objectives and strategies for the municipality. The MSS provides the basis for zones, overlays and particular provisions. Council will review the MSS every three years. Municipality: A geographical area that is delineated for the purpose of local government. Net Assets: The difference between total assets and total liabilities, which represents Council’s net worth. Net assets are also equal to total equity. Plan: A focused and structured detail of action to be undertaken, involving a series of specific steps, to implement the outcomes and key directions of an overarching strategy. Planning Scheme: The planning scheme sets out policies and requirements for the use, development and protection of land located within the City of Maroondah. Policy: A set of principles intended to influence and provide direction for Council decisions, actions, programs and activities. Productivity Commission: The Australian Government’s independent research and advisory body established to consider a range of economic, social and environmental issues that affect the welfare of Australians. Its role is to help governments make better policies in the long term interest of the Australian community. Rate and Charges Income: Income received from ratepayers in relation to general rates, garbage rates and special rate schemes. Realm: Council’s new library, learning and cultural centre on Maroondah Highway in Ringwood that is the centrepiece of the new Ringwood Town Square. The facility integrates a library, a learning centre, an art gallery and Council service centre. Revenue: Revenue is the amount of money that Council actually receives from its activities, mostly from rates and services provided to customers and ratepayers. Ringwood Golf: An 18 hole public golf course located at the corner of EastLink and Canterbury Rd offering golf lessons, a fully stocked golf shop and a café. Ringwood Town Square: A new Town Centre for Ringwood was opened in October 2015 as a core element of the Eastland Stage 5 development. The square integrates with the redeveloped Ringwood Station and features Realm, contemporary al fresco dining, signature restaurants, and public space that allow for an integrated mix of activities. Risk Management: A discipline for developing appropriate procedures to minimise or eliminate the risk of adverse effects resulting from future events and activities. Principles for managing risk are set out in the Australian Standards for risk management AS/NZS ISO 31000:2009
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 225 Service Centre: Council’s customer service centres handle requests, enquiries and payments from the general community. Service Delivery Plan: A detailed work plan to guide how a Council service area will achieve the relevant outcomes and key directions set out in Maroondah 2040: Our future together and the Council Plan 2013-2017. Statutory Authority: Organisations established under an Act of the Victorian Parliament or Australian Parliament for a public purpose. Strategy: A long term systematic plan of action to achieve defined outcomes in an area of Council activity or responsibility. A series of key directions is set out to meet these outcomes and specific actions are outlined to deliver on these key directions. At times, a separate plan or action plan is developed to identify the specific actions to be implemented. Structure Plans: A land-use document that provides direction for planning and development of a defined geographic area or precinct. Structure plans are subject to community consultation and may be incorporated into the Maroondah Planning Scheme. Sustainability: The principle of providing for the needs of the present community without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. The principle seeks to achieve long-term health and well-being across social, economic, environmental and cultural domains. The Rings: Formerly known as Maroondah Indoor Sports Centre, The Rings is a four court indoor stadium, catering primarily for basketball and netball users. Values: Represent underlying attitudes and beliefs within Council that are demonstrated through organisational practices, processes, and behaviours. Victorian Auditor General’s Office: A public sector audit organisation providing auditing services to the Victorian Parliament and Victorian public sector agencies and authorities. Vision: A statement of direction that defines the shared aspirations of Council and the Maroondah community. The community vision serves to guide all of Council’s service delivery and operations. Wards: A geographical area which provides a fair and equitable division of a local government area. The City of Maroondah is divided into three wards, each with three elected Council representatives. Wyreena Community Arts Centre: A classic English Tudor–style building set on four acres of lawns and gardens on Hull Road, Croydon. The facility incorporates an recently redeveloped Adventure Playground, the Wyreena Gallery, and the Conservatory Café. A range of short courses, ongoing courses, after school programs and school holiday programs are offered in the creative arts. X Space: A children’s playground and activity space adjacent to the Y Space in Croydon Park. Y Space: An outdoor activity space in Croydon Park designed to enable a variety of activities that meet the needs of young people and the wider community.
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Commonly Used Acronyms AAS: Australian Accounting Standards ABS: Australian Bureau of Statistics ALGA: Australian Local Government Association AS/NZS ISO 31000:2009: Australian Standards for Risk Management ATO: Australian Taxation Office CBD: Central Business District CCTV: Closed Circuit Television CEO: Chief Executive Officer CFA: Country Fire Brigade CIV: Capital Improved Value CMT: Corporate Management Team COAG: Council of Australian Governments CP: Council Plan CPA: Certified Practising Accountants DCP: Development Contributions Plan DHHS: Department of Health and Human Services DELWP: Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning DVD: Digital Video Disk EACH: Eastern Access Community Health EBA: Enterprise Bargaining Agreement EDMS: Electronic Document Management System EEO: Equal Employment Opportunity EFT: Equivalent full-time EOC: Equal Opportunity Commission EPA: Environment Protection Authority ERL: Eastern Regional Libraries FDC: Family Day Care FOI: Freedom of Information GIS: Geographic Information System GST: Goods and Services Tax HACC: Home and Community Care HR: Human Resources IBAC: Independent Broad-based Anti-Corruption Commission ICT: Information and Communications Technologies IFRS: International Finance Reporting Standards IPAA: Institute of Public Administration Australia IT: Information Technology KPI: Key Performance Indicator KSA: Key Strategic Activity LASPLAN: Local Authorities Superannuation Plan LGMA: Local Government Managers Australia LGPro: Local Government Professionals LGV: Local Government Victoria LLEN: Local Learning and Employment Network
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 227 MAV: Municipal Association of Victoria MAC: Major Activity Centre MBS: Municipal Building Surveyor MCC: Maroondah City Council MCH: Maternal and Child Health MECC: Municipal Emergency Coordination Centre MEM: Municipal Emergency Manager MERC: Municipal Emergency Response Coordinator MERO: Municipal Emergency Resource Officer MFPO: Municipal Fire Prevention Officer MFB: Melbourne Fire Brigade MRM: Municipal Recovery Manager MSS: Municipal Strategic Statement NAC: Neighbourhood Activity Centre NBN: National Broadband Network NCP: National Competition Policy OH&S: Occupational health and safety. PC: Personal Computer PCP: Primary Care Partnership RADAR: Review, Acknowledgement, Development and Recognition (Maroondah City Council’s Performance Review Process) REV: Recognising Extra Value (Council’s staff recognition program) RMAC: Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre SACS: Social and Community Services SDP: Service Delivery Plan TRIM: Total Records and Information Management System (Council’s EDMS) UDF: Urban Design Framework VCAT: Victorian Civil Administrative Tribunal VLGA: Victorian Local Governance Association
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Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 | 229 To contact Council telephone 1300 88 22 33 visit our website at: www.maroondah.vic.gov.au or call in to one of our service centres:
City Offices Service Centre Braeside Avenue Ringwood
Realm Service Centre 179 Maroondah Highway (opposite Ringwood Station) Ringwood
Croydon Service Centre Civic Square Croydon
Translating and Interpreter Service 13 14 50
National Relay Service (NRS) 13 36 77
www.facebook.com/MaroondahCityCouncil
@CityofMaroondah
www.youtube.com/CityofMaroondah
[email protected] www.maroondah.vic.gov.au
Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16