CBCity 2029 Comprehensive Study Notes

Message from the Mayor

  • Mayor Clr Bilal El-Hayek discusses the City's growth and expansion.

    • Highlights the City as one of the largest local government areas in Australia.

    • Area details:

    • 41 suburbs

    • Over 110 square kilometers

    • Population of nearly 400,000

    • Pride in Council-driven activities and initiatives.

Deputy's Plans and Visions

  • Major works occurring across the City, including:

    • Investments in aquatic centres and sports fields.

    • Upgrades to parks and recreational areas.

    • Reconstruction of roads and footpaths.

    • Modernization of town centres.

    • Council's emphasis on planning for integration and community reflection over the next four years 2025-2029.

2025-29 Delivery Program and 2025/26 Operational Plan

  • Council’s goals include:

    • Advocating for community and City interests to NSW Government on infrastructure projects.

    • Focus on hospitals, public transport, river catchments, planning laws.

    • Progress on community hubs:

    • Panania Library and Knowledge Centre.

    • Roberts Park Community Hub.

    • Thurina Community Centre.

    • Enhancement of nighttime economy and creativity.

    • Development of Campsie Hub and famous arts events like Bankstown Biennale.

    • Infrastructure Projects:

    • Playground upgrades at various parks.

    • Creation of active transport links and amenities for sports.

    • Promotion of community involvement via a Youth Advisory Committee and advocacy for volunteerism.

City Challenges Identified by CEO Matthew Stewart

  • Challenges faced in Canterbury-Bankstown and statewide:

    • Increasing costs of labor and materials.

    • Ageing infrastructure.

    • Expanding community expectations.

  • Proactive planning and leadership essential to meet these challenges.

  • Maintaining core services (waste collection, transport, compliance).

  • Efficient, technology-driven improvements in council services:

    • Use of AI for:

    • Customer service requests

    • Detection of recycling contamination

    • Expediting online bookings and applications

    • Enhancing safety at leisure facilities.

Council Values

  • Council's ethos is based on six pillars:

    • Continuous improvement.

    • Caring towards customers.

    • Collaborative team efforts.

    • Integrity in all actions.

    • Commitment to safety.

Acknowledgement of Traditional Custodians

  • Recognition of the Darug People as Traditional Custodians of the land, water, and skies of Canterbury-Bankstown.

Key Councillors List

  • A comprehensive list of active members within the Council:

    • Includes contacts and party affiliations of councillors.

Statistical Overview of the City

  • City metrics:

    • Area: 41 suburbs, over 110 square kilometers.

    • Population: 385,242 by 2024; projected 500,000 by 2036.

    • Demographics: Median age 36, 45% born overseas, 59% speak a language other than English.

    • Economics: 42,700 businesses contributing $17.75 billion gross regional product.

Community Feedback

  • Recent telephone survey results from 600 residents concerning quality of life in the City:

    • High ratings in community safety and local support.

    • 77% of residents satisfied with quality of life.

Major Services and Challenges in 2025/26

  • Challenges:

    • Cleanliness and waste management remain critical concerns.

    • Essential services continue amidst economic pressures.

    • Public health and environmental safety measures in place.

Priorities and Initiatives by Council

  • Community-focused services:

    • Upkeep and enhancement of local parks and public spaces.

    • Continuous community engagement via surveys and program reviews.

Budget Overview for 2025/26

  • Projected Income and Expenditures:

    • Operating Revenue: $421.5 million (including incremental increases in rates, user charges, interest, and operating grants).

    • Operating Expenses: $437.3 million including employee costs, materials, and maintenance.

    • Focus on maintaining a balanced budget in light of expectations for service enhancements.

Capital Works Program for 2025/26

  • Investment Summary: $89.8 million projected for capital works across key community projects including:

    • Community building upgrades.

    • Road and transport infrastructure improvements.

    • Support for emerging technologies and service enhancements.

Future Financial Management Strategy

  • Claiming funding for capital projects and managing existing liabilities.

  • Council's goal is to ensure fiscal responsibility while balancing community needs against available resources.

Summary of Services Offered by Council

  • A diverse array of services that include:**

    • Aquatics, Arts and Culture, Building and Development, Bushland and Biodiversity, Childcare and Youth Support, City Appearance and Amenity.

  • Measures for maintenance and enhancement of local service standards (e.g. focusing on user satisfaction ratings across services).