Agenda of General Meeting - Wednesday, 11 March 2026

Hornsby Shire Council Agenda and Summary of Recommendations

Page 1

AGENDA AND SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS

Acknowledgement of Country

Statement by the Chairperson:

"Council recognises the Traditional Owners of the lands of Hornsby Shire, the Darug and GuriNgai peoples, and pays respect to their Ancestors and Elders past and present and to their Heritage. We acknowledge and uphold their intrinsic connections and continuing relationships to Country."

PRESENT

NATIONAL ANTHEM

OPENING PRAYER/S

Acknowledgement of RELIGIOUS DIVERSITY

Statement by the Chairperson:

"We recognise our Shire's rich cultural and religious diversity and we acknowledge and pay respect to the beliefs of all members of our community, regardless of creed or faith."

Video and AUDIO RECORDING OF COUNCIL MEETING

Statement by the Chairperson:

"I advise all present that tonight's meeting is being video streamed live via Council’s website and also audio recorded for the purposes of providing a record of public comment at the meeting, supporting the democratic process, broadening knowledge and participation in community affairs, and demonstrating Council’s commitment to openness and accountability.The audio and video recordings of the non-confidential parts of the meeting will be made available on Council’s website once the Minutes have been finalised. All speakers are requested to ensure their comments are relevant to the issue at hand and to refrain from making personal comments or criticisms. No other persons are permitted to record the Meeting, unless specifically authorised by Council to do so."

APOLOGIES / LEAVE OF ABSENCE

political donations disclosure

Statement by the Chairperson:

“In accordance with Section 10.4 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, any person or organisation who has made a relevant planning application or a submission in respect of a relevant planning application which is on tonight’s agenda, and who has made a reportable political donation or gift to a Councillor or employee of the Council, must make a Political Donations Disclosure Statement.

If a Councillor or employee has received a reportable political donation or gift from a person or organisation who has made a relevant planning application or a submission in respect of a relevant planning application which is on tonight’s agenda, they must declare a non-pecuniary conflict of interests to the meeting, disclose the nature of the interest and manage the conflict of interests in accordance with Council’s Code of Conduct.”

declarations of interest

Councillors are reminded of their Oath or Affirmation of Office made under section 233A of the Act and their obligations under the Council’s Code of Conduct to disclose and appropriately manage conflicts of interest.

Clause 4.16 and 4.17 of Council’s Code of Conduct for Councillors requires that a councillor or a member of a Council committee who has a pecuniary interest in a matter which is before the Council or committee and who is present at a meeting of the Council or committee at which the matter is being considered must disclose the nature of the interest to the meeting as soon as practicable. The disclosure is also to be submitted in writing (on the form titled “Declaration of Interest”).

4.16 A councillor who has a pecuniary interest in any matter with which the council is concerned, and who is present at a meeting of the council or committee at which the matter is being considered, must disclose the nature of the interest to the meeting as soon as practicable.

4.17 The councillor must not be present at, or in sight of, the meeting of the council or committee:

a) at any time during which the matter is being considered or discussed by the council or committee, or

b) at any time during which the council or committee is voting on any question in relation to the matter.

Clause 5.10 and 5.11 of Council’s Code of Conduct for Councillors requires that a councillor or a member of a Council committee who has a non pecuniary interest in a matter which is before the Council or committee and who is present at a meeting of the Council or committee at which the matter is being considered must disclose the nature of the interest to the meeting as soon as practicable. The disclosure is also to be submitted in writing (on the form titled “Declaration of Interest”).

5.10 Significant non-pecuniary conflict of interests must be managed in one of two ways:

a) by not participating in consideration of, or decision making in relation to, the matter in which you have the significant non-pecuniary conflict of interest and the matter being allocated to another person for consideration or determination, or

b) if the significant non-pecuniary conflict of interest arises in relation to a matter under consideration at a council or committee meeting, by managing the conflict of interest as if you had a pecuniary interest in the matter by complying with clauses 4.16 and 4.17.

5.11 If you determine that you have a non-pecuniary conflict of interest in a matter that is not significant and does not require further action, when disclosing the interest you must also explain in writing why you consider that the non-pecuniary conflict of interest is not significant and does not require further action in the circumstances.

confirmation of minutes

THAT the Minutes of the General Meeting held on 11 February, 2026 be confirmed; a copy having been distributed to all Councillors.

Petitions

presentations

Rescission Motions

Mayoral Minutes

ITEMS PASSED BY EXCEPTION

GENERAL BUSINESS

Office of the General Manager

Page Number 1

Item 1 GM42/26 Audit Risk and Improvement Committee - Appointment of Independent Members

RECOMMENDATION

THAT:

1. Mr Richard Jones be reappointed as an independent member of the Audit Risk and Improvement Committee for a further 2-year term effective from 11 March 2026.

2. Ms Hayley Elson be reappointed as an independent member of the Audit Risk and Improvement Committee for a further 3-year term effective from 11 March 2026.

3. Ms Sheridan Dudley be thanked for her outstanding service and commitment to the Committee.

Corporate Support Division

Page Number 4

Item 2 CS5/26 Investments and Borrowings for 2025/2026 - Status for the period ending 31 January 2026

RECOMMENDATION

THAT the contents of Director’s Report No. CS5/26 be received and noted.

Community and Environment Division

Page Number 7

Item 3 CE4/26 Coastal Management Program Public Exhibition

RECOMMENDATION

THAT:

1. Council endorse the Draft Hawkesbury‑Nepean River System Coastal Management Program (HNRS CMP) for the purpose of placing the document on public exhibition for a period of six (6) weeks.

2. Council authorise the General Manager to approve minor administrative amendments to the Draft CMP prior to and during exhibition.

3. A further report is to be provided for Council’s consideration following public exhibition addressing submissions and recommending a final CMP for adoption and submission to the NSW Minister for the Environment and the Minister for Climate Change for certification.

Planning and Compliance Division

Page Number 12

Item 4 PC3/26 Local Planning Panel - Community Panel Members

RECOMMENDATION

THAT:

1. Council appoint Robert Corkery, Mark Anderson, Selina Cheng, Jasmine Yeow and Ross Walker as community representatives on the Hornsby Local Planning Panel for a period of up to 3 years to participate as part of a pool of community representatives to be rotated with one representative to attend each meeting.

2. Extend the term of appointment for Tony Jones as a community representative on the HLPP until 1 April 2029 to participate as part of the above pool of community representatives to be rotated with one representative to attend each meeting.

3. Advise the Planning Panels Secretariat at the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure of Council’s resolution.

Page Number 17

Item 5 PC4/26 Planning Proposal - Exempt provisions for Council led advertising signage

RECOMMENDATION

THAT:

1. Council endorse progression of the Exempt Provisions for Council Led Advertising Signage Planning Proposal for submission to the Department of Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure for a Gateway Determination.

2. The Planning Proposal be publicly exhibited in accordance with the Gateway Determination for a minimum of 28 days.

3. Following exhibition, a report on submissions be presented to Council for consideration.

Infrastructure and Major Projects Division

Nil

Confidential Items

Item 6 CE2/26 Food Organics Collection Services Tender

This report should be dealt with in confidential session, under Section 10A (2) (d) of the Local Government Act, 1993. This report contains commercial information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed (i) prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it; or (ii) confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the council; or (iii) reveal a trade secret. (This Report is considered confidential under Section 10A(2)(d)(i) of the Local Government Act as it contains information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it.

Discussion of the matter in an open Meeting would, on balance, be contrary to the public interest because the Report contains information provided by tenderers which includes sensitive information about their business operations, methodologies and costs. The publication of such information could result in the withholding of similar information by potential tenderers in future, therefore limiting Council’s ability to make an informed decision about future tenders. )

Questions with Notice

Page Number 27

Item 7 QWN1/26 Rating Exemptions for Private Education and Religious Organisations

Mayor's Notes

Page Number 31

Item 8 MN2/26 Mayor’s Notes 01 February 2026 – 28 February 2026

Notices of Motion

Page Number 32

Item 9 NOM4/26 E-Bikes and Micromobility Safety and Regulation

COUNCILLOR Seaglove To Move

THAT:

1. Council note the increasing use of e-bikes and other forms of micromobility within the Hornsby Shire and the associated community interest and perceived safety concerns, particularly on shared paths, footpaths and in areas with vulnerable users.

2. Council receive a report outlining:

a) The current legislative and regulatory framework governing e-bikes in NSW, including roles and responsibilities of Local Government, NSW Police and Transport for NSW.

b) Available local and state-wide data relating to e-bike use, incidents and complaints, noting any limitations in data classification.

c) Current Council programs, policies and initiatives that support safe shared-path use, active transport and community education.

3. Council consider opportunities to enhance road safety education and awareness regarding the safe and lawful use of e-bikes and other micromobility devices, including:

a) Shared path etiquette and safe riding behaviours.

b) Engagement with schools and community groups where appropriate.

c) Collaboration with NSW Police and relevant State Government agencies on consistent messaging.

4. Council advocate to the NSW State Government, in partnership with regional organisations such as NSROC where appropriate, for:

a) Clear and consistent statewide regulation of e-bikes and micromobility devices.

b) Greater clarity regarding classifications, speed limits, equipment requirements and permitted areas of use.

5. A Feedback Session be provided to Councillors outlining the findings of the above and recommended actions prior to any further consideration of policy or budget implications.

SUPPLEMENTARY AGENDA

MATTERS OF URGENCY

General Manager's Report No. GM42/26

Office of the General Manager

Date of Meeting: 11/03/2026

1 AUDIT RISK AND IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE - APPOINTMENT OF INDEPENDENT MEMBERS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

· Pursuant to section 428A of the Local Government Act 1993 the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee (ARIC) must keep under review the following aspects of the council’s operations: compliance; risk management; fraud control; financial management; governance; implementation of the strategic plan, delivery program and strategies; service reviews; and collection of performance measurement data by the council.

· At its meeting on 9 April 2025, Council resolved to reduce the membership of the Committee from four members (comprising the Chairperson and three independent members) to three members (comprising the Chairperson and two independent members).

· The initial term of the three independent Committee members of the ARIC expires on 9 March 2026. Following the resolution of Council on 9 April 2025 they were invited to reapply for the following two positions only:

o A 2-year term.

o A 3-year term.

· All three members submitted applications for reappointment.

· It is recommended that Richard Jones be reappointed for the 2-year term effective from 11 March 2026 and Hayley Elson be appointed for the 3-year term effective from 11 March 2026.

RECOMMENDATION

THAT:

1. Mr Richard Jones be reappointed as an independent member of the Audit Risk and Improvement Committee for a further 2-year term effective from 11 March 2026.

2. Ms Hayley Elson be reappointed as an independent member of the Audit Risk and Improvement Committee for a further 3-year term effective from 11 March 2026.

3. Ms Sheridan Dudley be thanked for her outstanding service and commitment to the Committee.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this Report is to reappoint members of the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee (ARIC).

BACKGROUND

Pursuant to section 428A of the Local Government Act 1993 the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee (ARIC) must keep under review the following aspects of the council’s operations: compliance; risk management; fraud control; financial management; governance; implementation of the strategic plan, delivery program and strategies; service reviews; and collection of performance measurement data by the council.

The ARIC operates in an advisory capacity only and has no decision-making authority. The Chairperson of the Committee, Mr Stephen Coates was reappointed by resolution of Council on 9 April 2025 to be effective from 10 November 2025.

At the same meeting on 9 April 2025, Council resolved to invite the three independent Committee members of the ARIC, Dr Sheridan Dudley, Ms Hayley Elson and Mr Richard Jones to apply for following two positions:

· A 2-year term.

· A 3-year term.

All three members submitted applications for renomination and an assessment of their CV’s and performance was undertaken by the councillors. The Chairperson of the committee was also consulted and his views considered.

DISCUSSION

The latest Guidelines published by the Office of Local Government (OLG) state as follows:

The Audit, Risk & Improvement Committee should have:

- at least one member with financial expertise (for example, a qualified accountant or auditor or other financial professional with experience of financial and accounting matters), and

- a mix of skills and experience in:

· Business

· Financial and legal compliance

· Risk management, and Internal audit, and

· any specialised business operations of the council, where the committee would benefit from having a member with skills or experience in this area (for example, IT skills or experience where IT systems have an important role in the council’s business).

Given the strong emphasis on financial expertise, it is recommended that Richard Jones be reappointed for the 2-year extension as he is the only member currently employed in a CFO role. He is a qualified Chartered Accountant and has previously worked in finance roles in local government and the tertiary education sector. Richard has also demonstrated a high level of financial literacy during committee meetings.

Both Hayley Elson and Sheridan Dudley have proven their value on the ARIC and either would be appropriate reappointments for the 3-year extension. On balance, however, Hayley Elson brings a specific skill set as an internal auditor having worked recently as the Head of Internal Audit at Mirvac and is now employed as the Technical Manager at the Institute of Internal Auditors.

CONSULTATION

In the preparation of this Report there was consultation with Stephen Coates, Chairperson of the ARIC.

BUDGET

There are no budget implications associated with this Report.

POLICY

There are no policy implications associated with this Report.

CONCLUSION

The reappointment of the ARIC members to the respective limited terms will allow for rotation of new members into the Committee over the next 4 years.

RESPONSIBLE OFFICER

The officer responsible for the preparation of this Report is the Risk & Audit Manager – Scott Allen - who can be contacted on 9847-6609.

Glen Magus

Acting General Manager

General Manager Division

Attachments:

There are no attachments for this report.

File Reference: F2019/00136-002

Document Number: D09319836

Director's Report No. CS5/26

Corporate Support Division

Date of Meeting: 11/03/2026

2 INVESTMENTS AND BORROWINGS FOR 2025/2026 - STATUS FOR THE PERIOD ENDING 31 JANUARY 2026

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

· This Report provides details of Council’s investment performance for the period ending 31 January 2026 as well as the extent of its borrowings at the end of the same period.

· Council invests funds that are not, for the time being, required for any other purpose. The investments must be made in accordance with relevant legislative requirements and Council’s policies, and the Chief Financial Officer must report monthly to Council on the details of funds invested.

· All of Council’s investments have been made in accordance with the requirements of the Local Government Act, the Local Government (General) Regulation and Council's Investment of Surplus Funds Policy and Investment Strategy.

· In respect of Council’s cash and term deposit investments, the portfolio achieved an annualised return for January 2026 of 4.68% which includes a positive yield of 7.79% from TCorp Managed Funds. On a financial year to date basis the portfolio achieved an annualised return of 4.69 % which includes a positive yield of 7.45% from TCorp Managed Funds.

RECOMMENDATION

THAT the contents of Director’s Report No. CS5/26 be received and noted.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this Report is to advise Council of funds invested in accordance with Section 625 of the Local Government Act; to provide details as required by Clause 212(1) of the Local Government (General) Regulation and Council's Investment of Surplus Funds Policy; and to advise on the extent of Council’s current borrowings.

BACKGROUND

Legislation requires that a report be submitted for Council’s consideration each month detailing Council's investments and borrowings and highlighting the monthly and year to date performance of the investments. Initial investments and reallocation of funds are made, where appropriate, after consultation with Council's financial investment adviser and fund managers.

DISCUSSION

Council invests funds which are not, for the time being, required for any other purpose. Such investment must be in accordance with relevant legislative requirements and Council Policies, and the Chief Financial Officer must report monthly to Council on the details of the funds invested.

Council’s investment performance for the month ending 31 January 2026 is detailed in the attached document. In summary, the portfolio achieved an annualised return for January 2026 of 4.68%, which includes a positive yield of 7.79% from TCorp Managed Funds. On a financial year to date basis the portfolio achieved an annualised return of 4.69% which includes a positive yield of 7.45% from TCorp Managed Funds.

The returns from TCorp Managed Funds can experience market volatility due to external economic conditions. It is noted that this product has a medium to long term investment horizon and will, therefore, reflect marked to market valuations monthly. Advice provided by Council’s independent investment advisor, Prudential Investment Services is to continue to hold this investment. This is due to the anticipated net positive performance returns that will be gained over the long term.

The Borrowings Schedule as at 31 January 2026 is attached for Council’s information, noting that Council became debt free on 1 July 2023 with no loans entered into since. The Borrowings Schedule also discloses future lease repayments for various items of plant and equipment.

BUDGET

Budgeted investment income for the year is $8,702,915 with an average budgeted monthly income of $725,243. Net investment income for the month ended 31 January 2026 was $1,242,045 which includes an unrealised gain of $170,089 from TCorp Managed Funds.

Budgeted investment income year to date at 31 January 2026 is $5,076,700. Total investment income year to date at 31 January 2026 is $8,893,256 which includes a year-to-date unrealised net gain of $1,108,746 from TCorp Managed Funds.

Approximately 42.89% of the investment income received by Council relates to externally restricted funds (e.g., Stronger Communities Grant funding and Section 7.11 and Section 7.12 development contribution funds) and is required to be allocated to those funds. All investments have been made in accordance with the Local Government Act, the Local Government (General) Regulation and Council's Investment of Surplus Funds Policy and Investment Strategy.

CONCLUSION

The investment of Council funds and the extent of its borrowings as of 31 January 2026 is detailed in the documents attached to this Report. Council’s consideration of the Report and its attachments ensures that the relevant legislative requirements and Council protocols have been met in respect of those investments and borrowings.

RESPONSIBLE OFFICER

The officer responsible for the preparation of this Report is the Chief Financial Officer – Duncan Chell - who can be contacted on 9847 6822.

Duncan Chell

Chief Financial Officer

Corporate Support Division

Nicola Dorman

Acting Director Corporate Support

Corporate Support Division

Attachments:

1.	HSC Investments Summary Report January 2026
2.	HSC Borrowings Summary Report January 2026

File Reference: F2004/06987-02

Document Number: D09314870

Director's Report No. CE4/26

Community and Environment Division

Date of Meeting: 11/03/2026

3 COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM PUBLIC EXHIBITION

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

· This report seeks Council’s endorsement to place the Draft Hawkesbury‑Nepean River System Coastal Management Program (HNRS CMP) on public exhibition. The project is being delivered jointly by six partner Councils: Hornsby, Central Coast, Hawkesbury, The Hills, Ku‑ring‑gai and Northern Beaches, covering the 145 km tidal reach from Broken Bay to Yarramundi, including Pittwater and Brisbane Water.

· The Draft CMP is planned to be considered by individual partner Councils in October–November 2025, exhibited for six weeks (November–December 2025), and finalised for Partner Council adoption from March 2026 onward. The Draft CMP would then be submitted to the Minister for Environment for Certification.

· The certifiable component of the draft program identifies 141 actions to be delivered over 10 years at an estimated total cost of $75.07 million (2025 dollars), with NSW Government agencies expected to contribute approx. $51.83 million. Hornsby Shire Council’s projected contribution over the 10-year implementation period is estimated at $4.89 million (local HSC actions $4.19 million; collaborative multi-LGA actions $0.70 million).

· Certification of the CMP post‑exhibition will unlock eligibility for funding under the NSW Coastal and Estuary Grants Program.

· In addition, to the certifiable actions there is an ancillary catchment companion program which has 9 actions totalling $2.30 million in total of which Hornsby Shire Council contributes $0.04 million.

RECOMMENDATION

THAT:

1. Council endorse the Draft Hawkesbury‑Nepean River System Coastal Management Program (HNRS CMP) for the purpose of placing the document on public exhibition for a period of six (6) weeks.

2. Council authorise the General Manager to approve minor administrative amendments to the Draft CMP prior to and during exhibition.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this Report is to seek Council endorsement to publicly exhibit the Draft Coastal Management Program (CMP) for the Hawkesbury‑Nepean River System (HNRS) for a period of 6 weeks.

BACKGROUND

Under the NSW Coastal Management Act 2016, the Hawkesbury-Nepean River System (HNRS) must be managed through a certified Coastal Management Program. Hornsby Shire Council has led a collaborative effort with six partner councils (Central Coast, Hawkesbury, The Hills, Ku-ring-gai, and Northern Beaches) to develop a coordinated CMP covering the 145 km tidal reach from Broken Bay to Yarramundi, including Pittwater and Brisbane Water.

The CMP provides a strategic framework for integrated catchment and waterway management, addressing environmental pressures and risks through structured actions. It has been developed in accordance with the NSW Coastal Management Manual 2018 and aligns with the provisions of the Coastal Management Act. Completion of the CMP is a prerequisite for accessing state funding and ensures community-driven planning.

DISCUSSION

The CMP has progressed through four of the five prescribed stages in the NSW Coastal Management Manual, with technical and financial support from the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW):

Stage 1 – Scoping Study (Completed April 2020)

This foundational stage involved a review of historical management practices, identification of data gaps, and a preliminary risk assessment. Key pressures identified included:

· Coastal hazards and climate change impacts

· Urbanisation and land use effects, including pollution and habitat disturbance

· Conflicts in waterway use (recreational, commercial, tourism)

· Public health and safety risks (e.g. algal blooms, ageing infrastructure)

· Governance challenges such as regulatory gaps and coordination issues

The study confirmed that a multi-council approach would provide a robust framework for managing the HNRS, offering benefits such as improved ecosystem health, climate resilience, and stronger inter-jurisdictional governance.

Stage 2 – Technical Studies (Completed March 2023)

This phase addressed key knowledge gaps through targeted investigations into environmental risks, vulnerabilities, and opportunities. The studies provided the evidence base for strategic action planning and helped refine the scope and priorities of the CMP.

Stage 3 – Management Options and Business Planning (Completed October 2025)

With additional funding secured through the NSW Coastal and Estuary Grants Program, this stage focused on developing and evaluating management options. Key activities included:

· Reviewing risks and opportunities identified in earlier stages

· Developing site-specific and system-wide management actions

· Evaluating options based on feasibility, stakeholder support, and cost-effectiveness

· Engaging stakeholders including First Nations groups, state agencies, and the community

· Preparing a Business Plan outlining funding mechanisms and alignment with Council’s Integrated Planning and Reporting (IP&R) framework

An initial list of 847 actions was refined to 194 implementable options through a rigorous screening and prioritisation process with a final list of 141 actions being proposed. Each option was assessed using a multi-criteria framework to ensure alignment with long-term CMP objectives and legislative requirements. The actions aim to address identified threats to the sustainable use and ecological health of the River, Coastal Zone and wider catchment, under the following themes:

· Planning, development, and governance

· Communications, engagement, and education

· Research and monitoring

· Social and cultural values

· Rehabilitation works

· Emergency response and recovery

Notably, under the Coastal Management Act 2016, the legally defined coastal zone within the Hawkesbury-Nepean River System (HNRS) covers only a small portion of the total catchment—approximately 2%. As a result, the scope of a Coastal Management Program (CMP) must be limited to actions within this defined coastal zone.

However, effective estuary and catchment management requires a broader approach. To support this, the CMP includes a companion section identifying nine catchment-based actions outside the defined coastal zone. These actions are non-certifiable under the CMP but are included to ensure alignment with NSW Government guidance and to address key management needs across the wider catchment.

This approach ensures that while the CMP complies with legislative boundaries, and also promotes integrated and practical management of the entire river system.

Stage 4 – Draft CMP Preparation (Completed October 2025)

The draft CMP was finalised following extensive stakeholder engagement and technical review. Feedback from community consultation and state agencies was incorporated to ensure the proposed actions are feasible, effective, and aligned with regulatory standards. The CMP is now ready for Council’s consideration for public exhibition.

Subject to Council endorsement, the next steps include simultaneous consideration by each Partner Council, a six‑week public exhibition, and consolidation of submissions for revisions. Following inter‑agency letters of support where relevant, the final Draft CMP will be submitted to each Council for adoption.

Upon finalisation, the CMP will be submitted to the Minister for the Environment and Minister for Climate Change, Energy for certification under the Coastal Management Act 2016. Once certified, the CMP will be eligible for funding under the NSW Coastal and Estuary Grants Program.

CONSULTATION

Consultation to date has been comprehensive and multi-faceted. During Stage 3, the Partner Councils undertook engagement activities with State agencies, Upper Catchment councils, First Nations groups, and communities across the estuary. This included a formal public exhibition held from 16 September to 24 November 2024. The program combined in‑person and digital channels, including 20 drop‑in sessions (with six in Hornsby Shire) and seven online portals. More than 500 attendees participated, lodging 162 suggestions and 4,029 votes on proposed actions. This broad and inclusive engagement -among the most extensive undertaken for any Coastal Management Program (CMP) in NSW - ensured that local values, practical insights, and community priorities directly informed the selection and refinement of management options. Building on this foundation, the Stage 4 Draft CMP will be placed on public exhibition for six weeks, during which submissions from community and other stakeholders will be encouraged. All feedback will be analysed and reported back to Council with recommended amendments prior to adoption and submission to the Minister for certification.

BUDGET

The following budget summary outlines the estimated costs and funding contributions associated with the implementation of the Draft Hawkesbury-Nepean River System Coastal Management Program (HNRS CMP) over the proposed ten-year delivery period. These figures reflect the collaborative nature of the program, with contributions from multiple councils and state agencies, and are intended to provide Council with a broad understanding of the financial implications prior to public exhibition. It is important to note that endorsement of the Draft CMP for exhibition does not commit Council to any new or unfunded expenditure at this stage; detailed funding arrangements and allocations will be confirmed through future Integrated Planning and Reporting (IP&R) processes and as external grant opportunities become available following certification of the CMP.

Table 1 - Indicative 10-year budget

Component	Estimated Value
Coastal Management Program (Total)	$77.36 m
· Certifiable Actions (141 Certifiable Actions in Coastal Zone)	$75.07 m
· Catchment Companion (9 Actions in wider catchment)	$2.30 m

Coastal Management Program contributions (Certifiable Actions)	$75.07 m
· NSW agencies	$51.83 m
· Partner Councils	$18.35 m
· Hornsby Shire Council*	$4.89 m
*Hornsby Shire Council contribution (Certifiable Actions)
· Local Implementation Plan	$4.19 m
· Shared Implementation	$0.70 m

Catchment Companion program (additional to Certifiable Actions)	$2.30 m
· Hornsby Council contribution	$0.04 m
· Partner Council contribution	$2.26 m

POLICY

The Draft CMP aligns with the NSW Coastal Management Act 2016, the NSW Coastal Management Manual 2018 and associated policy framework. Once certified actions will be programmed and delivered as part of Council’s Integrated Planning and Reporting obligations. NSW certification is a prerequisite for eligibility under the Coastal and Estuary Grants Program and will support coordinated delivery across Partner Councils.

CONCLUSION

The Draft HNRS CMP is a comprehensive, evidence‑based program that balances environmental protection, community values and deliverability across jurisdictions. Endorsing the Draft CMP for public exhibition is the appropriate next step to test its proposals with the community, finalise the program for certification and position Council to leverage significant external funding for implementation from 2026 onwards.

RESPONSIBLE OFFICER

The officer responsible for the preparation of this Report is the Manager Environment – Dr Peter Coad who can be contacted on 9847 6766.

Peter Coad

Manager - Natural Resources

Community and Environment Division

Stephen Fedorow

Director - Community and Environment

Community and Environment Division

Attachments:

First Stage Hawkesbury-Nepean River System Coastal Management Program

File Reference: F2018/00124-003

Document Number: D09217686

Director's Report No. PC3/26

Planning and Compliance Division

Date of Meeting: 11/03/2026

4 LOCAL PLANNING PANEL - COMMUNITY PANEL MEMBERS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

· Planning Panels were introduced by the State Government in 2018 with the aim of ensuring the process for the assessment and determination of development applications (DAs) with a high corruption risk, sensitivity or strategic importance is transparent and accountable.

· Planning Panels comprise both Expert and Community Panel members and Council has a role in determining the appointment of the panel members.

· The term of appointment of the current Community Panel members on the Hornsby Local Planning Panel (HLPP) expires on 30 April 2026.

· Accordingly, in October 2025, Council undertook an expression of interest process to appoint new Community members on the HLPP.

· In order to meet the Planning Minister’s operational requirements for Planning Panels, it is recommended that Council extend the term of appointment for one of the existing Panel members and appoint five new community members on the HLPP for a period of 3 years until 1 April 2029.

· There are no proposed changes to the current term of membership for the Expert members of the HLPP whose term of appointment finishes on 30 June 2027.

RECOMMENDATION

THAT:

3. Advise the Planning Panels Secretariat at the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure of Council’s resolution.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this report is to seek Council’s endorsement to extend the term of appointment for one Community Panel member and appoint five new Community Panel members to the Hornsby Local Planning Panel (HLPP).

BACKGROUND

Under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, Local Planning Panels are mandatory for all councils in Sydney, Wollongong City, Central Coast Council and Wingecarribee Shire. The Hornsby Local Planning Panel was constituted by the then Planning Minister on 1 March 2018.

In December 2022, the Department of Planning and Environment announced a number of changes to the operation of Planning Panels. The changes were intended to reduce corruption risks and improve the decision making of the Planning Panels in New South Wales.

Changes to the operation of Local Planning Panels include:

· Mandating a minimum number of experts in pools of representatives for LPPs (15).

· Mandating a minimum number of community members in pools of representatives for LPPs (4).

· Requiring LPP members to be rotated regularly so that there is randomisation of panel membership.

· Requiring probity checks, including police checks, for community representatives in LPPs, and a statutory declaration that representatives are not property developers or real estate agents.

· Clarifying that applicants can request to formally meet with LPPs to brief them on any project.

· Implementing a framework for the Department to induct LPP members.

Changes to the operation of the LPPs came into effect on 24 April 2023.

Hornsby Local Planning Panel

The Hornsby Local Planning Panel was constituted by the then Planning Minister on 1 March 2018. The Panel has the function of determining a range of development applications including, but not limited to, contentious applications where 10 or more unique objections are received, proposals involving a variation to a development standard greater than 10 per cent, demolition of a heritage item, residential flat buildings, sex service premises, and applications submitted by Council, a Councillor or member of Parliament. The Panel also has an advisory function, providing advice to Council prior to its consideration of changes to Council’s Local Environmental Plan.

The Panels consist of a Chair and two independent experts appointed by Council from a Minister-endorsed pool of independent, qualified people, plus a community representative.

Independent expert members are required to have expertise in one or more of the following fields: planning, architecture, heritage, the environment, urban design, economics, traffic and transport, law, engineering, tourism, or government and public administration. Panel chairs are required to have expertise in law or government and public administration.

The current expert members on the HLPP comprise: Alison McCabe, Anthony Hudson, Clare Brown, Elizabeth Kinkade, Gregory Flynn, Heather Warton, Ian Arnott, John Brockhoff, Judy Clarke, Larissa Ozog, Lisa Trueman, Marjorie Ferguson, Michael Leavey, Scott Barwick, Stephen Leathley and Stephen McMahon.

Community representatives are not required to have planning expertise. The role of the community representative is to ensure that local insights and knowledge are considered as part of the Panel decision-making. Councillors, property developers and real estate agents are ineligible to be panel members.

The current community representatives on the HLPP comprise: Martin Dargan, David White, and Tony Jones.

DISCUSSION

Membership of the HLPP is discussed below in terms of both expert and community members.

Expert Members

The current term of appointment for expert members on the HLPP is for a 3-year term. The current term of membership for the nine expert members ends on 30 June 2027.

There are no changes to the current term of membership for the expert members. Prior to the expiry of their term of appointment on 30 June 2027, Council can consider extending the term of appointment or select new membership at that time.

Community Members

The current term of appointment for community members on the HLPP is for a 3-year term. The current term of membership for the three community members ends on 30 April 2026.

Only one of the two current community members have applied for an extension to their term of appointment. Both Martin Dargan and David White have not re-applied to be on the Panel.

Previous Community Panel members, Ms Anderson and Ms Khan resigned from the Panel in 2025 as they no longer reside within the Shire, which precludes their continued participation on the Panel at the completion of their term.

In order to meet the Planning Minister’s operational requirements for Planning Panels for a minimum of 4 community representatives, Council undertook an expression of interest process to appoint new Community members on the HLPP.

Council received 19 applications, and each Ward is represented across nominees. Given the good response, it is recommended that Council appoint 6 panel members to participate as part of a pool of community representatives to be rotated with one representative to attend each meeting.

A shortlist of Applicants from each Ward have been recommended using selection criteria based on their time living in Hornsby Shire Council and strong community representation. Applicants that have sought to be a community member based on their technical qualifications (e.g. Planning/architecture experts) have been excluded as this is not a requirement for the role. Expert panel members are selected through a separate process based on a pool of experts provided by the NSW Department Planning and Infrastructure.

A spreadsheet containing the full list of all applicants and their resumes or credentials, experience and community involvement is attached as a separate confidential document.

A summary of the shortlisted Community members and their background is provided below.

Robert Corkery	A Ward	· Resident of Hornsby Shire for 18 years · Retired. Environmental and Geological consultant · Member Brooklyn Community Association
Tony Jones	A Ward	· Resident of Galston for 31 years · Treasurer, Galston Community Centre · Chairman and Founder - Hornsby Rural Areas Association · Current Community Member HLPP
Mark Anderson	B Ward	· Resident Normanhurst. · Former Head of Senior School Redfield College, Dural · Volunteering for local sports clubs.
Selina Cheng	B Ward	· Resident Hornsby Shire over 10 years · Participates in a number of community groups including Gardening club and Quilting groups
Jasmine Yeow	C Ward	· Lived in Hornsby Shire for over 32 years · Qualified Civil Engineer · Employment - Senior Manager Benefits Realisation Transport for NSW · Community work in public schools and Little Athletics.
Ross Walker	C Ward	· Lived in Hornsby Shire for 36 years · Retired Surveyor · President Beecroft - Cheltenham Civic Trust · Former community member of the Sydney North Planning Panel

Probity checks, including police checks have been undertaken for the shortlisted candidates by employment screening consultants The PRM Group & PharmacyID and a statutory declaration received that representatives are not property developers or real estate agents.

Tony Jones has reapplied to be on the Panel. Mr Jones was originally appointed to the Panel on 12 April 2023. His current term of appointment may be extended in accordance with the Act as his term would be less than 6 years.

It is recommended that the above candidates be appointed as community members on the HLPP for a period of 3 years until 1 April 202 and that the Planning Panels Secretariat at the Department of Planning and Infrastructure be advised of the appointments.

BUDGET

There are no additional budgetary implications. The Minister has made a remuneration determination setting minimum per meeting rates for panel members. The cost of the operation of the Panels is covered by the Planning and Compliance Division Budget.

POLICY

There are no policy implications associated with this Report.

CONCLUSION

To meet the operational requirements for Planning Panels, it is recommended that Council appoint five new community members comprising Robert Corkery, Mark Anderson, Selina Cheng, Jasmine Yeow and Ross Walker as community representatives on the Hornsby Local Planning Panel for a period of up to 3 years.

It is also recommended that the current term of membership for Tony Jones as a community representative on the HLPP be extended until 1 April 2029.

Council should write to the Planning Panels Secretariat at the Department of Planning and Infrastructure to advise of the appointments.

RESPONSIBLE OFFICER

The officer responsible for the preparation of this Report is the Manager, Development Assessments - Rod Pickles who can be contacted on 9847 6731.

Rod Pickles

Manager - Development Assessments

Planning and Compliance Division

Katherine Vickery

Acting Director - Planning and Compliance

Planning and Compliance Division

Attachments:

All EOI applications - This attachment should be dealt with in confidential session, under Section 10A (2) (a) of the Local Government Act, 1993. This report contains personnel matters concerning particular individuals (other than councillors).. (applicant details )

File Reference: F2013/00295-005

Document Number: D09308415

Director's Report No. PC4/26

Planning and Compliance Division

Date of Meeting: 11/03/2026

5 PLANNING PROPOSAL - EXEMPT PROVISIONS FOR COUNCIL LED ADVERTISING SIGNAGE

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

· Council is typically responsible for the delivery of public infrastructure including bus shelters, public waste bins, and community information signage for events and safety messages.

· Under existing state planning policy, bus shelters and street furniture such as public waste bins can be constructed as exempt development and do not require Council approval.

· Signage used for purposes such as safety or community information on these structures may also be undertaken as exempt development. However, advertising signage requires approval to be obtained via a development application pathway. This can be onerous, particularly where the signage is being undertaken by or on behalf of Council on existing Council assets and is considered to have a minor impact.

· This report presents a Planning Proposal which seeks to amend the Hornsby Local Environmental Plan 2013 to enable advertising signage on bus shelters, public waste bins or freestanding signs as exempt development when carried out by or on behalf of Council.

· It is recommended that the Planning Proposal be progressed for submission to the Department of Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure for a Gateway Determination.

RECOMMENDATION

THAT:

2. The Planning Proposal be publicly exhibited in accordance with the Gateway Determination for a minimum of 28 days.

3. Following exhibition, a report on submissions be presented to Council for consideration.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this report is to present the Exempt Provisions for Council Led Advertising Signage Planning Proposal to Council for endorsement for submission to the Department of Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure for a Gateway Determination.

BACKGROUND

Currently, State Environmental Planning Policy (Transport and Infrastructure) 2021 (the TI SEPP) permits the construction of bus shelters, public waste bins and freestanding signs as exempt development.

General requirements for exempt development included under the TI SEPP specify that these structures may include signage for the purposes of community notices and safety messages. However, where advertising signage is proposed for these structures, development consent is required to be obtained via a development application pathway.

A review of Council’s existing outdoor advertising assets was undertaken in 2025. The review identified that Council has a number of agreements in place with advertising companies who advertise on bus shelters within the Shire. This provides benefits including cleaning and renewal by the advertising companies and revenue towards replacement and maintenance of Council assets including public transport infrastructure (such as bus shelters).

The review supported continuing entering into agreements for advertising on Council assets but highlighted constraints associated with the requirement for lodgement of development applications where advertising on individual assets is proposed. Given that the structures themselves have an exempt development pathway which includes signage for community and safety message, this is an onerous requirement for advertisers and Council time and resources to prepare significant amounts of documentation for applications considered to be of low impact.

DISCUSSION

The purpose of this Planning Proposal is to simplify the planning pathway by enabling Council led advertising signage as exempt development, on structures that are otherwise able to be built as exempt development. Specifically, it recommends that advertising on bus shelters, freestanding signs and public waste bins be considered as Exempt Development under Schedule 2 of the Hornsby Local Environmental Plan 2013 (HLEP 2013).

Although advertising is not currently undertaken on public waste bins within the Shire and with no immediate intention to change this, the Planning Proposal represents an opportunity to plan for future options if warranted.

This would streamline the process for entering into agreements for advertising bus shelters, bins and freestanding advertising signs. Revenue received would be directed towards upgrading Council’s public transport infrastructure (including bus shelters and seats), improving accessibility (including associated footpaths, ramps and tactile indictors, etc) and improving Council’s Long Term Financial Capacity.

Similar planning proposals for advertising exemptions have been put forward by other councils across the Sydney region, including Bayside, Waverley and Woollahra Council. This demonstrates that the proposed amendments are consistent with broader planning practices and recently adopted approaches.

1. The Planning Proposal

The Planning Proposal seeks to amend the HLEP 2013 to allow for the incorporation of advertising signage as part of new or existing bus shelters, public waste bins and freestanding signs as exempt development if it is undertaken by or on behalf of Council.

The Planning Proposal incorporates three amendments to the HLEP 2013 which are summarised below and explained further in the attached Planning Proposal.

Amendment 1: Permit advertising on bus shelters as exempt development when undertaken by or on behalf of Council

The intent of this amendment is to allow advertising signs on new or existing bus shelters constructed by or on behalf of Council as exempt development.

The proposed criteria for the signage to be considered exempt includes that it:

· Must be carried out by or on behalf of Council

· May be up to 3.5m²in area

· May be digital

· Must not project more than 3.2m above the footpath

· Must not obstruct the sight lines of vehicular or pedestrian traffic

· Must not adversely impact the amenity of a heritage item or heritage conservation area

· Must have lighting in accordance with AS 1428 and the Disability Standards

Note: The construction of the bus shelters is already permitted as exempt development under the TI SEPP.

Amendment 2: Permit advertising on public waste bin enclosures as exempt development when undertaken by or on behalf of Council

The intent of this amendment is to allow advertising signs on new or existing public waste bin enclosures, when carried out by, or on behalf of, Council as exempt development.

The proposed criteria for the signage to be considered exempt includes that it:

· Must be carried out by or on behalf of Council

· May be up to 3.5m²in area

· May be digital

· Must not adversely impact the amenity of a heritage item or heritage conservation area

· Must have lighting in accordance with AS 1428 and the Disability Standards

Note: The construction of bins is already permitted as exempt development under the TI SEPP.

Amendment 3: Permit advertising on freestanding signs as exempt development when undertaken by or on behalf of Council

The intent of this amendment is to allow for advertising signs on new or existing freestanding signs, as exempt development, when carried out by, or on behalf of, Council.

The proposed criteria for the signage to be considered exempt includes that it:

· Must be carried out by or on behalf of Council

· Must be located in the E1 Local Centre, E2 Commercial Centre, or MU1 Mixed Use zones

· May be up to 3.5m² in area

· May be digital

· Must not project more than 3m above the ground

· Must not adversely impact the amenity of a heritage item or heritage conservation area

· Must have lighting in accordance with AS 1428 and the Disability Standards

Note: The construction of freestanding signs is already permitted as exempt development under the TI SEPP.

For each of the above mentioned structures, the built infrastructure would otherwise need to meet relevant development requirements of the TI SEPP, guidelines for construction and display in public spaces and industry guidelines and codes relating to the display of content that reflects community standards of advertising.

2. Strategic and Statutory Context

Relevant policies and legislation are discussed below.

Greater Sydney Region Plan - A Metropolis of Three Cities, North District Plan and draft Sydney Plan

The Greater Sydney Region Plan - A Metropolis of Three Cities has been prepared by the NSW State Government to guide land use planning decisions to 2056. The North District Plan is a guide for implementing the Region Plan at a District level and is a bridge between regional and local planning.

The plans set strategies and actions for accommodating Sydney’s future population growth and identifies key priorities and actions for improving liveability, sustainability and productivity across the region.

Under the plans, Council is required to consider the objectives and planning priorities outlined in Table 1 below. A full assessment of the Planning Proposal against the relevant objectives of the Region Plan and the planning priorities of the District Plan is provided in Section 3.2 of the attached Planning Proposal Report.

Table 1: Applicable objectives and actions of the Greater Sydney Regional Plan and North District Plan

Greater Sydney Regional Plan
Objective	Strategy
Objective 6 Optimise the use of available public land for social infrastructure.	6.2 – Optimise the use of available public land for social infrastructure.
North District Plan
Planning Priority	Actions
Planning Priority N3 Providing services and social infrastructure to meet people’s changing needs	10. Optimise the use of available public land for social infrastructure.

Table 2: Applicable Responses and Council Actions of the draft Sydney Plan

Draft Sydney Plan
Responses	Council actions
5. Align infrastructure to planned growth	5.6 Identify specific planned infrastructure works to be delivered within Council delivery programs and operational plans.

Section 9.1 Local Planning Directions

Section 9.1 of the EP&A Act allows the Minister for Planning to provide direction to Council concerning the preparation of draft local environmental plans. The directions of most relevance to this Planning Proposal include:

· Direction 1.1 Implementation of Regional Plans

· Direction 1.3 Approval and Referral Requirements

· Direction 5.1 Integrating Land Use and Transport

Direction 1.1 Implementation of Regional Plans

The objective of this direction is to give legal effect to the vision, land use strategy, goals, directions and actions contained in Regional Plans (e.g. the Greater Sydney Region Plan). The direction requires a planning proposal to be consistent with a Regional Plan released by the Minister.

Part 3 of the Planning Proposal considers consistency with the Regional Plan and the District Plan, identifying relevant strategies and actions and the Planning Proposal’s alignment. In summary, the Planning Proposal seeks to enable the delivery of public infrastructure which will allow for advertising signage to be incorporated into these structures as exempt development.

Direction 1.3 Approval and Referral Requirements

The objective of this direction is to ensure that the LEP provisions encourage the efficient and appropriate assessment of development.

The Planning Proposal would allow for the effective delivery of bus shelters, public waste bin enclosures and freestanding signs with advertising displays, with the built form of the infrastructure governed by existing exempt development criteria established by TI SEPP and the advertising on these structures to be exempt under HLEP 2013. As such, it is consistent with this Direction.

Direction 5.1 Integrating Land Use and Transport

The objective of this direction is to ensure that urban structures, building forms, land use location, development designs, subdivision and street layouts achieve the following planning objectives:

(a) improving access to housing, jobs and services by walking, cycling and public transport,

(b) increasing the choice of available transport and reducing dependence on cars,

(c) reducing travel demand including the number of trips generated by development and the distances travelled, especially by car,

(d) supporting the efficient and viable operation of public transport services, and

(e) providing for the efficient movement of freight.

The Planning Proposal would aid in the ongoing maintenance and installation of bus shelters in the Shire. Specifically, in relation to point (d), this would support the ongoing operation of bus services whilst enhancing and improving the usability and overall experience for transport users. Accordingly, the Planning Proposal is consistent with the planning objective to support the efficient and viable operation of public transport services.

Hornsby Local Strategic Planning Statement

The Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS) sets out a 20-year vision for land use in Hornsby Shire, identifying the special character and community values that are to be preserved as well as how Council will manage growth and change.

Planning Priorities of relevance to this planning proposal:

· LP4. Aligning the delivery of local infrastructure and public domain improvements with current and future growth.

The Planning Proposal is consistent with the above priority as it seeks to facilitate the delivery of new and upgraded public transport infrastructure by allowing for advertising to be incorporated into these structures as exempt development. This is anticipated to enhance the public domain with modern infrastructure and contribute to positive streetscape and centre amenity.

Council and Industry Advertising Guidelines

There are an estimated 130 bus shelters, 28 which include advertising, located within the Shire. The purpose of this Planning Proposal is to streamline the process for allowing advertising on these, together with freestanding signs and waste bin enclosures as exempt development. However, there will continue to be a requirement for the advertising to align with advertising industry guidelines. These include guidelines such as:

· The Australian Association of National Advertisers (AANA) Code of Ethics

· Outdoor Media Association (OMA) Code of Ethics and Model Advertising Devices Code (NSW)

Industry Codes, Policies and Guidelines contain requirements relating to the display of content that reflects community standards of advertising and where certain types of advertising (e.g. alcohol and gambling) advertising may not be located.

There are also a number of other existing guidelines which provide direction on aspects such as location, illumination and sightlines within specific locations such as the Transport Corridor Outdoor Advertising and Signage Guidelines established by the NSW Department of Planning and Environment in collaboration with Transport for NSW that relates to advertising within the rail and road corridors.

In addition to the above industry guidelines, Council has developed its own Freestanding Advertising Sign Guideline. This has been prepared to ensure there are clear provisions around the location and exempt criteria for freestanding advertising signage.

Council’s Guidelines include specific information and clear provisions for freestanding signage which must be adhered to when any new freestanding advertising structures and associated advertising signage are proposed to be undertaken by or on behalf of Council. The Guidelines align with the assessment criteria included within Schedule 5 of the Industry and Employment SEPP 2021 and the Model Advertising Devices Code NSW and include the following information:

· Define what a freestanding advertising sign is

· List proposed locations and zoning requirements for freestanding advertising signage

· Outline existing industry and regulatory controls which must be adhered to

· Provide criteria for the assessment of the impact and potential locations for the signs to ensure they meet the requirements for exempt development

A copy of Council’s Freestanding Advertising Guidelines is attached to this report and included in the Planning Proposal Report as Appendix C.

Following a tender process, contracts negotiated between Council and the advertising media companies must include relevant clauses relating to content standards to ensure all applicable laws and relevant codes of conduct relating to the advertising industry are adhered to. Any contracts entered into would also ensure that a portion of advertising be secured for Council community and emergency messaging purposes.

3. Consideration of Impacts

The Planning Proposal sets out considerations of potential impacts of the proposed amendments, as summarised below:

· Low impact development

The construction of bus shelters, public waste bin enclosures and freestanding signs is currently exempt development under the TI SEPP. The ability to use these structures for community or safety signage is also exempt development. The additional impacts of allowing advertising signage on existing or new structures where it is undertaken by or on behalf of Council in accordance with the relevant industry advertising standards is also considered minor, consistent with the intent of exempt development.

· Social and economic impacts

The Planning Proposal is not anticipated to result in any adverse social or economic impacts but rather provide a number of community benefits.

Local government is typically responsible for the delivery of bus shelters, public waste bins and freestanding signs in public areas. The supply, installation and regular maintenance of this infrastructure represents a significant cost burden for local government. Requiring development consent for advertising signage represents an onerous requirement and a significant administrative burden.

The Planning Proposal will provide an alternative pathway enabling the successful tenderer to redirect its capital commitment away from preparing and securing individual approvals for each new bus shelter with advertising and each freestanding advertising sign, and instead towards a more rapid deployment of infrastructure. An expedited rollout program would not only bring the new infrastructure into use sooner, but also allow Council to realise improved revenue earlier.

The Planning Proposal also presents an opportunity for Council to expand its capacity to provide community and emergency messaging through new digital signage. This would improve the visibility and reach of critical public communications in town centre and business districts, thereby strengthening community engagement and resilience.

· Potential proliferation of freestanding advertising signage

To ensure consistency and limit the potential for proliferation of freestanding advertising signage, Council has prepared its own Freestanding Advertising Guideline to align with the assessment criteria in Schedule 5 of the Industry and Employment SEPP 2021 and the Model Advertising Devices Code, NSW.

This, along with Council’s contractual rights when entering agreements, will control of the location and design of freestanding structures, as well as the advertising content. The internal Guideline will initially be used during the tender process and then on an ongoing basis to inform decision-making regarding suitable locations, display content, design and other matters for advertising signage to ensure it is of minor impact and consistent with the proposed exempt criteria.

CONSULTATION

Local Planning Panel Advice

The Planning Proposal was referred to the Local Planning Panel for advice on 5 November 2025, in accordance with Section 2.19(1)(b) of the EP&A Act. Section 2.19(1)(b) requires the Local Planning Panel to provide advice on a Planning Proposal before Council considered whether to forward it to the Department of Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure (DPHI) for a Gateway Determination.

The Panel advised that subject to the below matters being addressed, it supports the progression of the Planning Proposal for a Gateway Determination. The matters to be addressed in the Planning Proposal Report included:

· An outline of existing and proposed approval pathways and existing requirements;

· A clear rationale for the removal or changing of any existing requirements;

· Additional provisions relating to the height, types and locations where freestanding advertising signs would be permitted as exempt development;

· Confirmation that freestanding advertising structures should only be exempt development in the E1, E2 and MU1 zones; and

· Providing an outline how the proposal to allow advertising aligns with s1.6 Exempt Development of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979.

The Planning Proposal Report has been updated in response to the matters raised by the Panel to support its progression to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) for a Gateway Determination.

Planning Proposal Consultation Strategy

Should the Planning Proposal receive a positive Gateway Determination, the consultation would follow the requirements of the Determination, the Hornsby Shire Community Engagement Plan, and the public exhibition requirements of the Local Environmental Plan Making Guidelines.

It is anticipated that public consultation of the Planning Proposal would be undertaken for a minimum of 28 days and include:

· Advertisement on Council’s ‘Your Say Hornsby’ webpage

· Advertisement on Council’s electronic newsletter

· Consultation with public authorities identified in the Gateway Determination. Council considers that this should include Transport for NSW

BUDGET

Costs associated with the preparation of this draft Planning Proposal have been covered through the Strategic Land Use Planning operational budget.

POLICY

Section 2.19(1) of the EP&A Act requires that the Local Planning Panel must provide its advice on the Planning Proposal before Council considers whether or not to forward it to DPHI for a Gateway Determination. The Planning Proposal was referred to the LPP and the Panel advised it supports the progression of the proposal for a Gateway Determination subject to amendments to the Planning Proposal which have been undertaken.

As part of the Gateway Authorisation process, Section 2.4 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 allows the Minister and the Director-General to delegate functions to a Council and/or an officer or employee of a Council. When submitting a planning proposal, Council is required to identify whether it wishes to exercise Delegation. The Gateway Authorisation process can delegate the following plan making powers to Council:

· To make and determine not to make an LEP.

· To defer inclusion of certain matters.

· To identify which matters must be considered and which stages of the plan making process must be carried out again.

Given the draft Planning Proposal is Council initiated and relates to Council owned land and infrastructure, it is not being recommended that Council seek the Delegation in this instance.

CONCLUSION

This report presents a Planning Proposal which seeks to amend Schedule 2 of the Hornsby Local Environmental Plan 2013 to permit the installation of advertising signage on bus shelters, public waste bin enclosures and freestanding signs to be carried out as exempt development where it is undertaken by Council, or on behalf of Council.

The Planning Proposal is not expected to have any adverse social or economic impacts. It would reduce the administrative burden of preparing and assessing development applications for advertising signage to be included on structures that are able to be constructed as exempt development under existing State Government planning policy.

The Planning Proposal has strategic merit due to its consistency with the Greater Sydney Region Plan, North District Plan, Section 9.1 Local Planning Directions, Hornsby LSPS and Community Strategic Plan.

Accordingly, it is recommended that Council support the progression of the Planning Proposal for submission to DPHI for Gateway Determination.

RESPONSIBLE OFFICER

The officer responsible for the preparation of this Report is Louise Higginson, Acting Manager Strategic Land Use Planning, who can be contacted on 02 9847 6780.

Louise Higginson

Acting Manager - Strategic Landuse Planning

Planning and Compliance Division

Katherine Vickery

Acting Director - Planning and Compliance

Planning and Compliance Division

Attachments:

1.	Freestanding Advertising Guideline - January 2026
2.	Draft Exempt Council Led Advertising Signage Planning Proposal

File Reference: F2025/00245

Document Number: D09314928

Question with Notice No. QWN1/26

Date of Meeting: 11/03/2026

7 RATING EXEMPTIONS FOR PRIVATE EDUCATION AND RELIGIOUS ORGANISATIONS

ASKED BY COUNCILLOR Ball

TO THE General Manager:

Under the Local Government Act 1993 (NSW), certain land used for private education and religious purposes may be exempt from council rates. In the interests of transparency and long-term financial sustainability, I seek clarification on the total value of revenue foregone as a result of these exemptions.

Questions

1. Private Education – Number of Properties

o How many properties within the Hornsby Local Government Area (LGA) are currently exempt from paying council rates on the basis that they are classified as private education institutions?

2. Private Education – Land Value

o What is the total combined land value of all rate-exempt private education properties within the Hornsby LGA?

3. Private Education – Foregone Revenue

o Based on current rating categories and annual rate charges, what is the total estimated annual dollar value of council rate revenue that is not collected due to the exemption of private education institutions?

o Please provide this figure as a total annual amount in dollars.

4. Religious Organisations – Number of Properties

o How many properties within the Hornsby LGA are currently exempt from paying council rates on the basis that they are classified as religious organisations (including churches, mosques, temples, and associated buildings)?

5. Religious Organisations – Land Value

o What is the total combined land value of all rate-exempt religious organisation properties within the LGA?

6. Religious Organisations – Foregone Revenue

o Based on current rating categories and annual rate charges, what is the total estimated annual dollar value of council rate revenue that is not collected due to the exemption of religious organisations?

o Please provide this figure as a total annual amount in dollars.

7. Impact on Rate Base

o What percentage of the total potential rate revenue base does the foregone revenue from:
a) Private education institutions represent?

b) Religious organisations represent?

8. Additional Charges

o Are any of these exempt properties still charged for domestic waste, stormwater, or other service charges?

o If so, what total annual revenue does Council receive from these charges, separated between private education institutions and religious organisations?

RESPONSE

A response to the Question with Notice asked by COUNCILLOR BALL to the General Manager is provided below:

1. Private Education – Number of Properties

o How many properties within the Hornsby Local Government Area (LGA) are currently exempt from paying council rates on the basis that they are classified as private education institutions?

There are 29 properties owned by private education institutions. Council is legally prohibited from levying rates on these properties under the Local Government Act, 1993 (the Act).

2. Private Education – Land Value

o What is the total combined land value of all rate-exempt private education properties within the Hornsby LGA?

The total unimproved land value of private education properties is $213.17 million, based on the latest valuation (2024) by the NSW Valuer General.

3. Private Education – Foregone Revenue

o Please provide this figure as a total annual amount in dollars.

The total estimated annual foregone rates revenue if business rates were levied is $564,014. Whilst a business rate categorisation appears appropriate this would need to be assessed against any future changes to legislation and/or the dominant use of each property at the time.

4. Religious Organisations – Number of Properties

There are 152 properties owned by religious organisations. Council is legally prohibited from levying rates on these properties under the Local Government Act, 1993 (the Act).

5. Religious Organisations – Land Value

o What is the total combined land value of all rate-exempt religious organisation properties within the LGA?

The total unimproved land value of religious organisations is $667.53 million, based on the latest valuation (2024) by the NSW Valuer General.

6. Religious Organisations – Foregone Revenue

o Please provide this figure as a total annual amount in dollars.

The total estimated annual foregone rates revenue if business rates were levied is $1,766,544. Whilst a business rate categorisation appears appropriate this would need to be assessed against any future changes to legislation and/or the dominant use of each property at the time.

7. Impact on Rate Base

o What percentage of the total potential rate revenue base does the foregone revenue from:

a) Private education institutions represent?

b) Religious organisations represent?

Estimated additional rate revenue based on a business rate categorisation is as follows:

	Additional Rate Revenue (2025/26)
Private Education Institutions	0.60%
Religious Organisations	1.87%

8. Additional Charges

o Are any of these exempt properties still charged for domestic waste, stormwater, or other service charges?

o If so, what total annual revenue does Council receive from these charges, separated between private education institutions and religious organisations?

Domestic waste services are provided upon request with charges applied in line with Council’s adopted Fees & Charges. There are no separately chargeable stormwater or other services.

Total annual revenue from domestic waste charges is as follows:

	Domestic Waste Charges (2025/26)
Private Education Institutions	$25,429
Religious Organisations	$103,548

Attachments:

There are no attachments for this report.

File Reference: F2013/00751

Document Number: D09323912