Sport and recreation - policy, strategy and action plan updates

The Sport and Recreation Allocations, Fees & Charges will provide a clear, consistent and transparent approach to how Council sport and recreation facilities are allocated and charged both seasonally and casually. 

Facilities will be categorised, to ensure that allocations are consistent, and based on the quality of the facility being utilised. Updated fees and charges will reflect the categories. A clear process for allocating facilities will be outlined, with information on how decisions are made by Council. 

An update to the Facility User Guide will occur alongside this work. 

The Policy will be presented to Council for review and endorsement prior to being released for community consultation.  Following feedback raised throughout that consultation, the Policy will be submitted for Council endorsement. 

Timeline

The Municipal Highball Feasibility study will assess current and future provision for basketball, netball, badminton and other indoor sports across the municipality. The study will review all facilities currently utilised in the municipality, determining future needs. Through analysing participation trends and future demand, the study will provide a clear roadmap for the development of any future infrastructure, incorporating cost estimates and a funding strategy.   

A specialist consultant has been appointed to conduct the study and develop a detailed business case, including capital and operational costs, funding requirements and a 10-year operational plan. The availability of capital funds and grant programs may influence the works proposed for Council endorsement in the coming years. 

The Club Funded Capital Works Policy will ensure clear guidelines and due diligence is provided for clubs and organisations to seek Council approval for the completion of minor infrastructure projects at Council-owned facilities.  

Council officers have been working with clubs in recent years to support the delivery of club-funded projects through a set of guidelines. These guidelines require updating in line with current compliance and Council processes. The new Policy will ensure clubs and organisations are aware of the principles and requirements for Council’s approval of club-funded works and assess the risk associated to Council during the approval process. 

Timeline

Council has endorsed a review of the existing Aquatic Strategy to ensure the long-term planning and delivery of aquatic and leisure facilities continues to meet the evolving needs of our community. A specialist consultant is leading the development of a Strategic Review and Action Plan, informed by current service provision, population trends, community needs and regional considerations. 

Community engagement will form a part of the process, the review will also explore funding options, partnership opportunities and sustainable management models. 

The Sport Infrastructure Action Plan will help guide capital investment in sport and recreation for the next five years with projects assessed based on set criteria which will include existing conditions, participation and relevant sporting industry guidelines.  

The plan will be prepared by an independent consultant to include short (1-3 years), medium (4-5 years) and long term (5+ years) priorities which will be reviewed and endorsed as part of Council’s annual budget process.  The availability of capital funds and grant programs may influence the projects proposed for Council endorsement each year.   

The Action Plan will be presented to Council for review and endorsement prior to being released for community consultation.  Following feedback and an assessment of any projects raised throughout that consultation, the plan will be submitted for Council endorsement to inform the Capital Works Program for 2026/27 and beyond.