Agenda of Meeting of the Port Phillip City Council

Meeting of the Port Phillip City Council

4 February 2026

Welcome

Welcome to this Meeting of the Port Phillip City Council.

Council Meetings are an important way to ensure that your democratically elected representatives are working for you in a fair and transparent way. They also allow the public to be involved in the decision-making process of Council.

About this meeting

There are a few things to know about tonight’s meeting. The first page of tonight’s Agenda itemises all the different parts to the meeting. Some of the items are administrative and are required by law. In the agenda you will also find a list of all the items to be discussed this evening.

Each report is written by a Council officer outlining the purpose of the report, all relevant information and a recommendation. Council will consider the report and either accept the recommendation or make amendments to it. All decisions of Council are adopted if they receive a majority vote from the Councillors present at the meeting.

Public Question Time and Submissions

Provision is made at the beginning of the meeting for general question time from members of the public.

All contributions from the public will be heard at the start of the meeting during the agenda item 'Public Questions and Submissions.' Members of the public have the option to either participate in person or join the meeting virtually via Teams to ask their questions live during the meeting.

If you would like to address the Council and /or ask a question on any of the items being discussed, please submit a ‘Request to Speak form’ by midday on the day of the meeting via Council’s website:

Request to speak at a Council meeting - City of Port Phillip

Meeting of the Port Phillip City Council

To Councillors

Notice is hereby given that a Meeting of the Port Phillip City Council will be held in St Kilda Town Hall and Virtually via Teams on Wednesday, 4 February 2026 at 6:30pm. At their discretion, Councillors may suspend the meeting for short breaks as required.

AGENDA

1 APOLOGIES

2 MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS

Minutes of the Meeting of the Port Phillip City Council 10 December 2025.

3 Declarations of Conflicts of Interest

4 Public Question Time and Submissions

5 Councillor Question Time

6 Petitions, Joint Letters & Deputations........................................................ 5

6.1 Deputation Response - Community Safety in Church and Dow Streets, South Melbourne 5

7 Presentation of CEO Report

Nil

8 A Healthy and Connected Community......................................................... 12

8.1 Draft Accessibility Action Plan 2026-2030........................................................ 13

8.2 Friends of Suai Annual Report 2024/25............................................................ 40

9 An Environmentally Sustainable and Resilient City.......................... 59

9.1 Community Electric Vehicle Charging Program............................................... 60

10 A Safe and Liveable City

Nil

11 A Vibrant and Thriving Community

Nil

12 An Engaged and Empowered Community.................................................... 73

12.1 Quarterly reporting of Records of Informal Meetings of Council - 1 October - 31 December 2025................................................................................................................... 74

12.2 Audit and Risk Committee - Biannual Report to 31 December 2025............... 92

13 A Trusted and High Performing Organisation....................................... 97

13.1 Proposed Property Lease - 14A Ferrars Place South Melbourne VIC 3205... 98

13.2 Proposed discontinuance and sale of part R1831 (adjoining 56 Park Road, Middle Park VIC 3206)................................................................................................................ 104

13.3 Audit and Risk Committee - Appointment of Chairperson 2026..................... 115

14 Notices of Motion............................................................................................... 117

14.1 Notice of Motion - Councillor Crawford - Clarke Reserve Dog Off Leash Area 117

15 Reports by Councillor Delegates

16 URGENT BUSINESS

17 Confidential Matters

Nil

Meeting of the Port Phillip City Council

4 February 2026

6.1

Deputation Response - Community Safety in Church and Dow Streets, South Melbourne

A deputation was presented to the 3 December 2025 Council meeting relating to community safety issues in Church and Dow Streets, South Melbourne.

The Deputation stated the following:

In relation to ongoing and escalating community safety issues in Church and Dow Streets, South Melbourne. For more than two years, residents have reported repeated break-ins, attempted home entries, drug-related activity, and serious night-time safety risks due to inadequate lighting and the absence of CCTV. Despite ongoing correspondence since 2024 (including escalations to the Premier, Minister for Police, and Minister for Local Government), there has been no progress on the specific issues raised for our immediate area. A fatal incident has since occurred in Dow Street, which tragically aligns with the risks repeatedly highlighted by residents. Key matters requiring Council action are:

1. Improved lighting on Dow Street and Church Street (interim and permanent options).

2. Appropriate CCTV or alternative deterrence measures, with clarity on timelines and feasibility.

3. Joint site meeting between Council, Victoria Police, and residents to agree on immediate steps.

4. General cleaning and overall amenity improvement.

This Deputation seeks a clear pathway, timelines, and accountable actions to improve safety and amenity for the local community.

OFFICER COMMENT

Residents have raised concerns to Council of an observed increase in suspicious activity and presence of drug-affected people over the last 18 months. The perceived source is people shifting activities to avoid a camera installed on the corner of Clarendon and Park Streets. This CCTV Camera is not in Council’s asset register.

Council reviewed the available data from the Crime Statistics Agency for Church Street, Dow Street and adjoining laneways between Church and Clarendon Streets for the period between July 2020 to June 2025. In the laneways there were no recorded offences during July 2020-June 2023 and 3 property and personal offences during July 2024-June 2025. There has been an increase in property and theft offences reported since July 2023, as summarised in the table below.

Table outlining offences recorded for Church Street, Dow Street and adjoining laneways in South Melbourne

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Joint site meeting between Council, Victoria Police, and residents

On 30 October the General Manager City Development and Manager Safety & Amenity met residents to understand their concerns. Where the resident concerns related to Victoria Police, the issues have been discussed Victoria Police. Concerns about the adverse impact of the behaviour of public housing tenants have been discussed with the relevant Government department.

General cleaning and overall amenity improvement

Council officers are reviewing the Council bin collection process, repeat offender trends and patrols to improve general cleaning and overall amendment. We will advise the community of the outcome of that review.

Appropriate CCTV or alternative deterrence measures

There are currently no Council CCTV assets covering the Church and Dow Streets vicinity.

The mobile CCTV trailer could not safely be utilised in this area due to the narrow design of the laneways and roads.

Council has lodged an application for funding with the Federal Government for additional CCTV. If the funding is successful, Church and Dow Streets could be considered for the location of the expanded CCTV network. Locations for the CCTV will be subject to the outcome of the prioritisation process, compliance with the Public Place CCTV Policy and Police advice. Officers will keep the community informed of the grant process and any options for the use of Federal Government funding to provide CCTV coverage.

South Melbourne Police maintain a database of private residential or business cameras to assist with Police enquiries.

Improved lighting on Church and Dow Streets

A review of lighting along Dow Street and the nearby laneway shows that lighting can be improved. Old fittings, uneven light spread, and different pole heights are creating dark areas. Residents have installed privately-owned building-mounted lights and CCTV to assist to deter criminal activity.

AS/NZS 1158.3.1 is a Standard that guides design and implementation of public lighting in pedestrian areas. The Standard prescribes a minimum lighting threshold that must be met across the area. This ensures that the darkest points are above a certain minimum brightness and prevents dark patches where pedestrians feel unsafe, or hazards are not visible to vehicles.

Church and Dow Streets fall below the Standard:

· Dow Street: 0.029 lx (required = 0.22 lx)

· Laneway: 0.069 lx (required = 0.14 lx)

The existing lighting infrastructure has inconsistent spacing and low availability of electrical infrastructure such as poles and streetlights. This makes it difficult and costly to upgrade lighting levels. Works involve partnering with CitiPower and costs include upgrading of lighting and power assets, design, and project delivery. Prices are based off initial investigations and subject to vary upon further design and definition of scope.

The installation of solar lighting was explored as a more cost effective solution. However, given the inconsistent and limited sun exposure of the area (narrow road reserve with overshadowing from adjacent buildings) this is not a viable solution.

Requests by the community for funding as part of Council’s FY 2026/27 Budget are submitted via Council’s Plan for Port Phillip 2025-2035 Year 2, Have Your Say webpage. Community requests are received between 17 November and 1 February 2026. Council officers had advised the Church and Dow Streets community of this process and note a submission has been received.

Three initial options have been developed. All three would require FY 2026/27 Budget funding:

Option 1) Full suite of interventions

The estimated cost of the improving lighting along the length of both streets is $470,000 for Dow Street and $236,000 for Church Street (ex GST). This includes upgrades and installation of new streetlights, brackets and electricity poles.

Option 2) Installation of streetlight in hotspot

Targeted interventions in hotspots. This would focus on the area targeted in recent burglaries between 58, 60, 63 and 53-59 Dow Street. The estimated cost to install a new electricity supply, pole and streetlight to directly illuminate the hotspot is $242,000 (ex GST).

Option 3) Installation of a streetlight on existing pole and upgrading two light fittings

This option focuses on addressing the gaps identified in the gaps identified in December 2025 through the review of the AS/NZS 1158.3.1 standards.

The option includes installing a new LED mounted to an existing pole at the corner of Dow and Church Streets, and to replace two existing fluorescent lights with LED fittings (including pathway glare visors). These upgrades would improve the minimum light levels above the Standard’s thresholds

· Dow Street: 0.39 lx (required = 0.22 lx)

· Laneway: 0.18 lx (required = 0.14 lx)

This option is estimated to cost $60,000 (ex GST).

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RECOMMENDATION

That Council:

1. Receives and notes the deputation.

2. Considers funding for improved lighting as part of the budget process in response to the submission made by the Church and Dow Street community within Council’s 2026/27 Budget engagement process.

3. Considers options for additional CCTV assets as part of the grant application process with the Federal Government.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

Meeting of the Port Phillip City Council

4 February 2026

8.1

Draft Accessibility Action Plan 2026-2030

Executive Member:

Kylie Bennetts, General Manager, Community Wellbeing

PREPARED BY:

Josh Badenoch, Coordinator Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Jill Young, Social Policy Advisor

Christine Dening, Manager Community Building and Inclusion

1. PURPOSE

1.1 To present the draft Accessibility Action Plan 2026-2030 and seek Council’s endorsement for public exhibition.

2. EXECUTIVE Summary

2.1 The City of Port Phillip is renewing its commitment to accessibility through the draft Accessibility Action Plan 2026–2030 (the draft Plan). While 13 per cent of Port Phillip residents live with disability, discrimination remains high and only a small portion receive NDIS support.

2.2 Informed by a comprehensive review of the previous plan (which concluded in 2025) and engagement with people with disability, the draft plan builds on past achievements, addressing historical challenges and learnings across three previous Accessibility Action Plans.

2.3 The draft Plan adopts a strategic and flexible approach aligned with legislative requirements and Council’s broader strategic priorities. It includes defined actions and deliverables to support accountability and has been informed through consultation with people with lived experience of disability and internal stakeholders.

2.4 Community feedback underscores the importance of accessibility, with services for people with disability rated as the second most important Council service in the 2025 Annual Satisfaction Survey. Although Council is not a direct service provider, public expectations of accessible and inclusive service delivery is high.

2.5 The draft Plan was developed through the first phase of engagement undertaken as part of the review process. This included broad community feedback captured through the Plan for Port Phillip findings and a targeted workshop with people with disability in June 2025.

2.6 A second phase of engagement is scheduled for 16 February – 15 March 2026 to ensure the draft Plan reflects diverse community perspectives and particularly captures the views of people with disability.

2.7 Council has allocated $9,500 in the 2025/26 budget for the community engagement, to support the development of the final Accessibility Action Plan 2026-30 by June 2026.

3. RECOMMENDATION

That Council:

3.1 Thanks those who have participated in early engagement to help inform the draft Accessibility Action Plan (2026-30), particularly those with lived experience and their carers.

3.2 Endorses the release of the draft Accessibility Action Plan (2026-30) for the next phase of community engagement in February and March 2026 which includes public exhibition of the draft Plan (Attachment 1).

3.3 Notes that prospective applicants for Council’s Disability Advisory Committee will be asked to share their views on the Action Plan as part of the recruitment process and advised of the opportunities the Disability Advisory Committee will have to shape implementation and future iterations of the Plan.

3.4 Notes that Council will continue to be an active participant in a range of advocacy forums, including the Metropolitan Transport Forum, to ensure City of Port Phillip remains strong and effective in advancing public transport accessibility.

4. KEY POINTS/ISSUES

4.1 Approximately 13 per cent of the population in the City of Port Phillip live with disability, equating to 13,400 people. Of these, only 10 per cent receive NDIS supports.

4.2 Despite legislation, rates of discrimination towards people with disability are still high, with nearly half (46 per cent) of all complaints to the Australian Human Rights Commission being about disability discrimination.

4.3 The creation and implementation of a Disability (or Accessibility) Action Plan is one tool that can progress the rights of people with disabilities and reduce discrimination.

4.4 Accessibility Action Plans are a legislative requirement for councils in Victoria under the Victorian Disability Act 2006.

4.5 Accessibility Action Plans articulate Council’s public commitment to upholding the rights of people with disability and to advancing fairness, inclusion and accessibility in all areas of civic life. The City of Port Phillip has demonstrated long‑standing leadership in this area, first adopting an Accessibility Action Plan in 2001 and continuing to strengthen its commitment through five subsequent plans.

4.6 To fulfil legal obligations, all Accessibility Action Plans must include four key objectives, which bring to the fore the purpose of the Disability Act 2006. These are:

· Reduce barriers in accessing goods, services and facilities;

· Reduce barriers to obtaining and maintaining employment;

· Promote inclusion and participation in the community; and

· Achieve tangible changes in attitudes and practices that discriminate against people with disability.

5. CONSULTATION AND STAKEHOLDERS

Summary of Accessibility Action Plan Review

5.1 To inform the draft Plan, a comprehensive review of the Accessibility Action Plan 2023-25 took place in April 2025.

5.2 The review consisted of interviews with internal stakeholders who previously held responsibility for the delivery of actions; benchmarking with other Councils; and an appraisal of actions within the current plan and their impacts.

5.3 Findings revealed that since Council’s initial Accessibility Action Plan, there have been achievements made and clear progress for people with disability in our City, with greater consideration being given to accessibility. Areas for improvement were also identified.

5.4 Key opportunities were identified through the review as to how Council can improve implementation of its future Accessibility Action Plan. These included:

· Consider shifting from detailed actions to higher-level strategic actions to allow greater flexibility and responsiveness;

· Acknowledge that delivering actions within existing resources may not always be feasible and should be assessed accordingly;

· Explore mechanisms for ongoing input from people with lived experience of disability, noting at the time the absence of a formal network or Advisory Committee (it was resolved by Council to establish a dedicated advisory Committee late in 2025);

· Establish a governance structure to support effective implementation.

5.5 Benchmarking with other councils reinforced the review findings, with officers from other Councils highlighting the value of disability advisory committees, the need for early and authentic engagement with departments responsible for plan delivery, and the importance of a straightforward implementation process.

5.6 While some actions are best addressed through Council’s advocacy (such as public transport accessibility), others fall within Council’s direct responsibility. These include:

· Positioning Council as an employer of choice for people with disability;

· Ensuring all communications are accessible; and

· Implementing a continuous improvement program to guarantee footpaths and crossings remain accessible.

5.7 Following the review, Council has endorsed the establishment of a Disability Advisory Committee (DAC) in 2026. The DAC will provide a formal mechanism for ongoing input from people with lived experience of disability and strengthen governance for effective implementation of the Accessibility Action Plan going forward. It will also offer strategic advice on prioritization and feasibility, and support advocacy and partnership opportunities.

5.8 As engagement on the Plan is proposed to occur prior to the DAC being established, it is proposed that the DAC recruitment process is utilised as a way for prospective members to provide initial insights. It is also proposed to clearly communicate with prospective DAC members that while the DAC as an advisory committee may not shape the initial draft plan in full, their strategic advisory role will influence implementation and future iterations of the Plan.

5.9 The alternative to facilitate review of the draft Plan by the DAC is to extend the current Plan until November 2026. This would postpone implementation of new initiatives and replicates the previous Plan which also had the timeframe extended.

Draft Accessibility Action Plan 2026-2030 Development

5.10 Drawing on the review findings, Council held a workshop in June 2025 with people with disability to embed co-design principles in the plan and ensure their voices shaped its content.

5.11 Participants shared experiences of discrimination within the City of Port Phillip, particularly around physical access when shopping or dining at cafes and restaurants. They also raised concerns about parking challenges and limited accessibility of public transport.

5.12 The draft plan reflects these insights, incorporates review outcomes, and introduces a refreshed approach compared to previous Accessibility Action Plans.

5.13 The Draft Accessibility Action Plan 2026–2030 outlines actions aligned with four legislative objectives and includes clear accountability measures. It builds on Council’s achievements, acknowledges its current position in advancing accessibility, and identifies opportunities for ongoing improvement, all informed by the lived experience of people with disability.

5.14 There are four key benefits to the draft plan’s development and delivery:

5.14.1 Alignment with Plan for Port Phillip –
The plan enables annual implementation plans to focus on priorities identified in the Plan for Port Phillip, ensuring continuity and progress. A four-year action plan strengthens this alignment by addressing needs, priorities, timeframes, and budgets.

5.14.2 Alignment with other Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) focused work –
The plan complements Council’s DEI principles, reinforcing its commitment to learning, reflection, and growth while embedding accessibility within broader inclusion efforts.

5.14.3 Responsive Approach -
Higher-level actions combined with firm commitments provide flexibility to adapt to potential national changes, such as the ongoing review of the Disability Discrimination Act 1992.

5.14.4 Internal Stakeholder Involvement –
Higher-level actions, supported by firm commitments, offer greater flexibility than lower-level, highly specific actions. This approach allows Council to adapt to potential national changes, such as those arising from the ongoing review of the Disability Discrimination Act 1992.

Engagement on Draft Accessibility Action Plan 2026-2030

5.15 The City of Port Phillip’s Accessibility Action Plan is being developed through a two-phase engagement process for inclusive and tailored input.

5.16 Phase 1: Engagement on the draft Accessibility Action Plan occurred through targeted and broader consultation noted above, with those findings informing the plan’s development. In addition, insights from the Community Satisfaction Survey and engagement outcomes from the Plan for Port Phillip were used to enhance Council’s understanding of community perspectives on issues affecting people with disability.

5.17 Phase 2: This is planned for February - March 2026, to invite wider community feedback on the draft Accessibility Action Plan coupled with opportunities for previous participants to provide further input.

5.18 This phase will include targeted engagement with people with disability to ensure their views are accurately reflected in the draft plan, as well as broader community engagement. This recognises that the Accessibility Action Plan is intended to deliver benefits across the whole community, not only for people with disability and their carers.

5.19 Proposed community engagement is planned to include:

5.19.1 Have Your Say project page and survey.

5.19.2 A tailored workshop with participants with disability from phase one engagement.

5.19.3 A targeted engagement session people with disability, in addition to the above.

5.19.4 A targeted activity with carers.

5.19.5 Consultation with staff from community and disability service providers such as Brotherhood of St Laurence and Sacred Heart Mission.

5.19.6 An information session with members of Council’s Youth Advisory Committee (YAC).

6. LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS

6.1 There are no legal or risk implications associated with the draft Accessibility Action Plan.

7. FINANCIAL IMPACT

7.1 The current actions outlined in the draft Accessibility Action Plan can predominantly be delivered and achieved within existing budgets and in a cost neutral setting.

7.2 While there are instances where projects have been identified to increase accessibility, these costs have been considered by the departments responsible for their delivery, to either be delivered within existing resources or through Council’s annual budget process.

8. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

8.1 No environmental impacts are associated with this action plan.

9. COMMUNITY IMPACT

9.1 It is anticipated that people with disability and their carers will be positively impacted by this action plan.

9.2 Further, the plan should positively impact broader community members, given that the fourth objective and associated actions relate specifically to attitudes and practices from the broader community that discriminate against people with disability.

9.3 The City of Port Phillip’s 2025 Annual Community Satisfaction Survey indicates that the community may not fully understand Council’s role in promoting, rather than directly delivering, disability services. These findings highlight the importance of Council’s responsibility to advocate for and ensure that its own services are accessible and inclusive.

9.4 The delivery of this plan is expected to make disability and accessibility more prominent in City of Port Phillip’s work. By elevating these conversations and publicly reporting on progress, City of Port Phillip will demonstrate accountability and provide the community with confidence in its commitment to accessibility.

10. Gender Impact Assessment

10.1 A gender impact assessment has been completed and recommendation have informing the plan’s development and community engagement approach.

11. ALIGNMENT TO COUNCIL PLAN AND COUNCIL POLICY

11.1 The Accessibility Action Plan aligns with strategic direction one from Plan for Port Phillip – A Healthy and Connected Community. However, it also resonates with strategic directions three and five, as it is anticipated that the action plan’s implementation will facilitate a Liveable City with an Empowered Community.

12. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY

12.1 If Council resolves to release the draft Plan for community consultation at the Council meeting on 4 February 2026, the following will occur::

12.1.1 Community engagement period: 16 February – 15 March

12.1.2 Consideration of feedback and submissions on the draft Plan: April

12.1.3 June: Updated Plan presented at the Ordinary Meeting of Council for endorsement and adoption and the Engagement Report presented to Council for public release.

12.2 COMMUNICATION

12.2.1 A detailed engagement plan for both internal staff and community members has been approved. Target audiences include people with disability, carers, disability support organisations and the community more broadly, noting that the plan should impact all community members.

12.2.2 The communication approach includes:

· Direct communications through Council officers’ networks, and cascading through the community organisations that support people with disability and carers.

· Posters at libraries, community centres and ASSIST

· Social media

· Inclusion in Council’s newsletters: Engagement Newsletter, Divercity, Community Sector News.

13. OFFICER MATERIAL OR GENERAL INTEREST

13.1 No officers involved in the preparation of this report has declared a material or general interest in the matter.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Accessibility Action Plan 2026-2030⇩

Meeting of the Port Phillip City Council

4 February 2026

8.2

Friends of Suai Annual Report 2024/25

Executive Member:

Kylie Bennetts, General Manager, Community Wellbeing

PREPARED BY:

Emma Blackford, Team Leader Grants and Funding

Christine Dening, Manager Community Building and Inclusion

1. PURPOSE

1.1 To present the Friends of Suai 2024/25 Annual Report (Attachment 1) and inform Council of the achievements of the friendship.

2. EXECUTIVE Summary

2.1 In September 2020, Council formally reaffirmed its friendship with Covalima district in East Timor, signing a ten-year Friendship Agreement for 2020-30. This was the third consecutive ten-year agreement, initially signed in 2000.

2.2 The Friends of Suai Community Reference Committee guides the friendship on behalf of Port Phillip’s community. The committee works in partnership with the Covalima Community Centre in Suai, East Timor to meet the aims and objectives of the Friendship Agreement between the City of Port Phillip and Covalima communities.

2.3 In May 2025 Council committed to provide an annual grant of $15,000 for the next five years.

2.4 Council will also continue to support the Friendship by donating second hand computers through our disposal program, maintaining support for the Committee as an advisory committee to Council with Councillor representation, and providing ongoing in-kind assistance for their activities.

2.5 The Friends of Suai 2024/25 Annual Report is aligned to the Friends of Suai Strategic Framework 2025, see page 4 of Attachment 1.

2.6 Strengthening the Covalima Community Centre and its programs is a key focus of the Strategic Framework. The achievements of the Centre and the implementation of educational, social and environmental programs are included in the Annual Report.

2.7 The establishment and growth of the Covalima Community Centre in Suai is one of the primary legacies of the friendship with City of Port Phillip. The Centre has grown in capacity and is a registered NGO. It has formal partnerships with international NGOs and development agencies and is nationally recognised for its work to support gender equality and women’s leadership.

3. RECOMMENDATION

That Council:

3.1 Notes the 2024/25 Friends of Suai Annual Report (Attachment 1).

3.2 Acknowledges the ongoing work of the Friends of Suai Community Reference Committee and thanks the Committee for its efforts.

3.3 Acknowledges the work of the Covalima Community Centre in Suai throughout 2024/25 and the role it has played in enhancing the lives of the Covalima community.

4. KEY POINTS/ISSUES

4.1 The City of Port Phillip established a relationship with the coastal town of Suai in Covalima district, East Timor in 2000. The relationship was formed after the mass destruction and killings that occurred after the Timorese people voted for independence in 1999. In response to concern expressed from the Port Phillip community, a friendship was developed with Suai and the district of Covalima.

4.2 The friendship has been formally recognised through consecutive ten-year Friendship Agreements, initially signed in 2000. In September 2020, Council reaffirmed its friendship with the Covalima district through a third ten-year Friendship Agreement for 2020-30.

4.3 The Friendship Agreement comprises a Statement of Friendship and Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The Statement of Friendship outlines the nature and intent of the relationship to utilise skills and knowledge in both communities, and in doing so, empower both to manage their shared future. The supporting MoU maintains a formal arrangement for Council’s relationship with the local government in Suai.

4.4 Friends of Suai work in partnership with the Covalima Community Centre in Suai to meet the aims and objectives of the Friendship Agreement.

4.5 The Friendship Agreement is complemented by a Municipal Cooperation Agreement of which the City of Port Phillip is a signatory, along with 14 other local Councils in Victoria. This agreement was signed by the Mayor and CEO in 2016 and provides a framework for building local government in East Timor.

4.6 The Friends of Suai Community Reference Committee is a formal advisory group to Council and up until early 2025 was resourced by the Friends of Suai Community Building Officer, with support now spread across several staff as part of their duties. There is a Councillor representative on this Committee. This role is currently held by Councillor Thomann. More than 8 residents regularly attend meetings and organise events in the City of Port Phillip. The Committee also assess project initiatives to ensure the friendship pursues best practice in international development.

4.7 The work of Friends of Suai is guided by the 2025 Strategic Framework which focus on strengthening capacity at the Covalima Community Centre and support for its future financial independence.

4.8 In May 2025 Council committed to ongoing funding of $15,000 per annum for the next five years.

4.9 Highlights of the Friends of Suai achievements in 2024/25 include:

4.9.1 Fundraising activities and community donations contributed $45,814 to support programs in Covalima district and toward core operational costs of the Covalima Community Centre. Funds and items were donated for the scholarship program, the With One Seed reforestation project and to the Suai Senior Secondary School library and facilities.

4.9.2 A successful trivia night was held at Middle Park Bowls Club in March 2025, raising over $11,000. There was great support from the Port Phillip community and Council, with 95 attendees.

4.9.3 The Friends of Suai scholarship program has now provided 183 scholarships for students from disadvantaged families to further their education. All scholarships are fully funded, and many community members have contributed to this program.

5. CONSULTATION AND STAKEHOLDERS

5.1 The 2024/25 Annual Report has been prepared by the Friends of Suai Community Reference Committee Chairperson, Megs Alston; Treasurer, Michael Henry; and the Covalima Community Centre Director, Alberto de Jesus Barros.

6. LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS

6.1 There are no known legal and risk implications.

7. FINANCIAL IMPACT

7.1 In May 2025 Council committed to ongoing funding of $15,000 per annum for the next five years. Council officers support the committee in an administrative capacity.

7.2 The program funding for the Covalima Community Centre is used for core operational costs including staffing, communication and transport. Funds are also provided to contribute to the annual financial audit, programs and training.

7.3 Friends of Suai fundraising activities and community donations contributed $46,029 to support operations of the Covalima Community Centre and programs in Covalima district. Funds and items were donated for the scholarship program, With One Seed reforestation program and the Suai public secondary school library.

8. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

8.1 Friends of Suai is committed to sustainable practices and has supported the establishment and expansion of a reforestation initiative called With One Seed. This program works with subsistence farming communities to plant thousands of trees on deforested land. More than 100,000 trees have been grown in the Friends of Suai funded nursery and distributed to local farmers.

9. COMMUNITY IMPACT

9.1 The Friendship is a community-initiated commitment that supports an enriching relationship for both the Port Phillip and Covalima communities. Residents come together to engage in international relations with one of our closest neighbours, East Timor.

9.2 The Friends of Suai program provides the opportunity for understanding good governance, community participation and sharing of best practice in civic administration in East Timor and the Port Phillip communities.

9.3 Port Phillip residents have provided time, skills, money and friendship, ensuring the relationship is based on community-to-community links. The friendship engages residents, service clubs, churches and schools in Port Phillip to connect with and support our friends in East Timor.

9.4 Fundraising, cultural events and public meetings have ensured participation and engagement in the community, attracting residents, Councillors, staff and the East Timor networks in Victoria. Port Phillip residents are kept informed and engaged with the friendship through program updates, social media, event invitations and opportunities to donate.

10. Gender Impact Assessment

10.1 The Covalima Community Centre has an excellent reputation for its work in promoting gender equality, inclusion and advocacy across all programs. The Rural Women’s Development Program at the Centre supports income generating activities for more than 100 women and provides leadership and empowerment training for women to stand as candidates in village elections.

11. ALIGNMENT TO COUNCIL PLAN AND COUNCIL POLICY

11.1 Since 2000, the Friends of Suai Friendship Agreement and program have been guided by and aligned to the strategic goals of each Council Plan.

11.2 The Friends of Suai program aligns with the Strategic Directions in the 2025-35 Council Plan: A healthy and connected community.

11.3 The Friends of Suai Community Reference Committee is a formal advisory group to Council, providing community members the opportunity to participate in civic life to inform Council decision making. The Committee work with the Covalima Community Centre and local government in Suai to provide good governance and for the benefit and wellbeing of its community. There is a Councillor representative on this Committee.

12. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY

12.1 TIMELINE

12.1.1 The Annual Report will be presented at the Friends of Suai annual community meeting later this year.

12.2 COMMUNICATION

12.2.1 If endorsed by Council, the Annual Report will be distributed to Friends of Suai members, donors, partners and supporters. It will also be made accessible on
Council’s website (Friends of Suai page).

13. OFFICER MATERIAL OR GENERAL INTEREST

13.1 No officers involved in the preparation of this report has declared a material or general interest in the matter.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Friends of Suai Annual Report 2024-25⇩

Meeting of the Port Phillip City Council

4 February 2026

9.1

Community Electric Vehicle Charging Program

Executive Member:

Brian Tee, General Manager, City Development

PREPARED BY:

Renae Walton, Principal Climate Adaptation Officer

Ed Cotter, Head of Sustainability & Climate Change

1. PURPOSE

1.1 To seek Council endorsement for:

· the installation of additional electric vehicle public fast charging within the City of Port Phillip; and

· the signing of licence agreements for additional utility pole-mounted chargers with infrastructure providers and utility companies.

2. EXECUTIVE Summary

2.1 Demand for electric vehicles (EVs) within the City of Port Phillip is increasing. Council is committed to supporting EV adoption through investigation, facilitation, and delivery of both public and private EV charging infrastructure, in line with Initiative 30 of the Act and Adapt Sustainable Environment Strategy 2023–28.

2.2 Council’s support for EV infrastructure continues to be an important enabler of climate action and sustainable transport.

2.3 Council’s EV charging program has two key elements being the support and facilitation of public charging infrastructure and private chargers. The first tranche of public charging infrastructure has been commissioned, and Officers are now seeking Council endorsement for the next phase of public charging infrastructure delivery.

Public fast EV charging infrastructure

2.4 In June 2025, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), under delegation from Council, signed a licence with Fast Cities Australia Ltd Limited (trading as Evie Networks) for the installation of public fast charging EV infrastructure at 228-234 Park Street, South Melbourne. Installation is anticipated in mid-2026.

2.5 Council has continued to negotiate with Evie Networks and other public fast charging providers, to identify additional locations around the city suitable for fast charging infrastructure.

2.6 Council and Evie Networks have identified four locations suitable for fast chargers (refer Attachment 1 for maps and images of each site):

· 4 Marlborough Street, Balaclava (Marlborough Street, car park)

· Centre Avenue, Garden City (adjacent to the Garden City Shops)

· Spring Street North, Port Melbourne (outside the Port Melbourne Town Hall)

· Dundas Place, Albert Park (outside the Albert Park Library)

2.7 These sites have been proposed as they are close to a shopping precinct, have electrical infrastructure that is currently suitable (or can be upgraded) and are not adjacent to permit only parking.

Public utility pole mounted EV chargers

2.8 Council has worked with EVX Australia to install three pole mounted chargers after licence agreements were signed by the Chief Executive Officer under delegation.

2.9 These pole mounted chargers are located at:

· Liardet Street, Port Melbourne

· Herbert Street, Elwood

· Chaucer Street, St Kilda.

2.10 To support the installation of additional on-street public utility pole mounted EV chargers, Council is continuing to work with EVX and is in negotiations with another charging provider, Intellihub Australia Pty Ltd (Intellihub), and the distribution network service providers.

2.11 Further Council endorsement is required to authorise the Chief Executive Officer or his delegate to enter agreements with Intellihub and the distribution network service providers to enable the delivery of additional public utility pole mounted EV chargers. This would be in accordance with the criteria previously endorsed at the 1 May 2024 Council meeting.

3. RECOMMENDATION

That Council:

3.1 Authorises the Chief Executive Officer, or their delegate to negotiate and execute licence agreements with Fast Cities Australia Pty Limited (trading as Evie Networks) for the design, supply, install, operation, management and maintenance of public fast EV charging infrastructure at;

· Marlborough Street, Balaclava;

· Centre Avenue, Garden City;

· Dundas Place, Albert Park; and

· Spring Street North, Port Melbourne.

3.2 Authorises the Chief Executive Officer, or their delegate to negotiate licences for the installation of pole mounted chargers with Intellihub Australia Pty Ltd as sites are identified.

4. KEY POINTS/ISSUES

4.1 Council is supporting the uptake of electric vehicles (EVs) by facilitating the installation of public EV charging infrastructure and piloting the installation of private vehicle charging infrastructure.

4.2 Council has made significant headway since adopting the Act and Adapt Plan in 2023. It has developed a clear set of criteria to assess appropriate locations and develop processes to work with EV charger providers, electricity distributors and the wider community. Table 1 below outlines the key Council decisions.

Date	Milestone
18 June 2025	Council authorises the CEO or their delegate to execute a licence agreement with Fast Cities Australia (trading as Evie Networks) for the design, supply install, operate, manage and maintain a public electric vehicle fast charging station at 228-234 Park Street, South Melbourne completing the EOI process started in 2021. Minutes
5 June 2024	Council considers program continuation and endorses public charging progress, and private charging options under revised conditions. Minutes
1 May 2024	Council endorses public charger exploration. Minutes
1 November 2023	Council endorses Act and Adapt 2023–28. A key action is Initiative 30 - Accelerate support for the uptake of electric vehicles in the community by investigation, trialling and facilitating the installation of public charging stations, private charging infrastructure and removing barriers to charging infrastructure in new developments and existing buildings.

Table 1 - Timeline and decision history

4.3 Council’s EV charging program has two key elements:

· Public charging infrastructure, which includes:

· Public Fast Charging Infrastructure – an electric vehicle charging station that includes standalone infrastructure installed on public land by the provider.

· Public Utility Pole Mounted EV Chargers - an electric vehicle charging station mounted on an existing electricity power pole where there is readily available access to power from the pole.

· Private chargers – infrastructure owned exclusively by a resident for their personal use and installed on public land through a permitting process.

Public Fast EV Charging Infrastructure

Background

4.4 Public fast chargers are stand-alone charging units installed on public land, at shopping centres and service stations. They enable the community to quickly charge or ‘top-up’ their vehicle and encourage users to stay in a location for 30 minutes or more.

4.5 In June 2021, Councillors were briefed on the Community EV Charging Program including the release of an Expression of Interest (EOI) for applications from ‘turnkey’ (ready to go) companies to design, supply, install, operate, manage and maintain electric vehicle fast charging stations.

4.6 Through this EOI process Officers worked with Evie Networks to execute a licence for 228-234 Park Street, South Melbourne.

4.7 Along with Evie Networks, Council has been negotiating with three EV charging infrastructure providers to identify additional locations for public fast chargers. Negotiations with each provider have been progressing at different rates.

4.8 The current process to assess sites is:

· Provider identifies a location and discusses suitability with Council.

· Council provides an initial response based on an internal referral process that looks at accessibility requirements, heritage and urban design considerations and requirements regarding renewable power supply.

· At the same time the provider undertakes a site analysis for power suitability with the electricity network distributor

· If the site is deemed suitable by Council and the electricity network distributor, the electric vehicle charging provider progresses licenses with each individual party.

· Once a provider has identified a site, it is recorded in our database. If additional providers identify the same location, they are informed that it is under review, and they will be told if it becomes available for investigation. There is full transparency of this approach with each provider.

Current Negotiations

4.9 Evie Networks have identified four additional sites that are under investigation with draft licenses in negotiation:

4.10 4 Marlborough Street, Balaclava - Evie Networks is proposing to install two 150kW public fast chargers that can service four vehicles. This will utilise five parking bays. The chargers are at grade and a minimum of one bay would be DDA compliant. Evie Networks have indicated the charger will be installed 4-6 months from the acceptance of power agreement by the electricity distributor. Installation is estimated for mid-2026. Officers are in the final stages of negotiating the license agreement with Evie Networks.

4.11 Centre Avenue, Garden City - Evie Networks is proposing to install two 150kW public fast chargers that can service four vehicles. This will utilise four parking bays and will involve the placement of some infrastructure in the centre medium. To minimise visual impact of the infrastructure, landscape design elements will be incorporated into the design. Evie Networks have indicated the charger will be installed 6-8 months from the acceptance of power agreement by the electricity distributor. Installation is estimated in late 2026. Officers are in the final stages of negotiating the license agreement.

The local businesses in Centre Avenue are being consulted as part of this process.

4.12 Dundas Place, Albert Park (outside Albert Park Library) - Evie Networks is proposing to install two 150kW public fast chargers that can service four vehicles. The initial licence will permit the use of two parking bays. However, the draft licence includes a provision to permit the use of two additional bays if usage rates/demand indicate this would more adequately service the needs of the community. Evie Networks have indicated the charger will be installed 6-8 months from the acceptance of power agreement by the electricity distributor. Installation is estimated for mid-2027. Officers are in advanced negotiations for this license agreement.

4.13 Spring Street North, Port Melbourne (outside Port Melbourne Town Hall) - Evie Networks is proposing to install two 150kW public fast chargers that can service four vehicles. The initial licence will permit the use of two parking bays. However, the draft licence includes a provision to permit the use of two additional bays if usage rates/demand indicate this would more adequately service the needs of the community. In the draft licence particular consideration is given to minimising the visual impact of the infrastructure as this location is within a heritage overlay and outside a significant public building. Evie Networks have indicated that the charger will be installed 8-10 months from the acceptance of power agreement by the electricity distributor. Installation is estimated for early 2027. Officers are in advanced negotiations for this license agreement.

4.14 To progress these public fast EV charging locations, officers recommend (Recommendation 3.1) Council:

· confirms Evie Networks as the supplier to design, supply, install, operate, manage and maintain fast EV charging infrastructure at the locations detailed above; and

· delegates the signing of the license agreements to the CEO.

Public Utility Pole Mounted EV Charging Infrastructure

Background

4.15 Pole-mounted EV chargers are electric vehicle charging units that are installed on existing utility poles (e.g., power poles or streetlight poles) rather than being placed on the ground in standalone units.

4.16 On 5 June 2024, Council noted the 1 May 2024 Council decision to support the continued exploration and installation of on-street public utility pole-mounted and kerbside EV charger technology.

4.17 This included the adoption of the following criteria to determine the locations for on-street EV chargers:

· Prioritise street locations outside Permit Zones unless the Permit Zone street has no access to off-street parking and there is high demand for EV chargers.

· Consider safety implications in determining the location of on-street EV chargers.

· Prioritise the spread of locations across the City of Port Phillip to provide access to EV charging across the municipality.

· Consider the outcome of community engagement with residents in the streets where on-street EV chargers are proposed to be installed.

4.18 At this meeting, Council authorised the CEO or their delegate to enter agreements with public EV charger providers that meet the criteria noted above.

4.19 At this meeting Council also delegated authority to the CEO to enter agreements specifically with EVX Pty. Ltd to deliver public EV charging infrastructure based on above endorsed criteria.

4.20 In November 2025, the CEO under delegation, signed licenses with EVX Pty. Ltd that enabled three pole mounted EV chargers to be installed.

Current Negotiations

4.21 To support the installation of more on-street Public Utility Pole Mounted EV chargers, officers are continuing to work with EVX. Officers are also in negotiations with another charging provider, Intellihub.

Potential locations across the municipality have been identified (Figure 1).

A map of a city with blue dots

AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Figure 1 Shortlist of possible locations for public utility pole mounted EV charging infrastructure.

4.22 To progress this project, officers recommend Council delegates the signing of licenses with Intellihub to the CEO (recommendation 3.2) to continue the rollout of additional charging infrastructure.

5. CONSULTATION AND STAKEHOLDERS

5.1 Each EV Program project has involved project specific engagement with stakeholders.

Public Fast EV Charging Infrastructure Project

5.2 Council officers have undertaken internal and external engagement to support the development of public fast EV charging infrastructure. This has included identifying site opportunities, vegetation, heritage and urban design considerations, risks and future plans across Council departments.

5.3 Officers have engaged in ongoing advocacy with Melbourne Water and the Victorian Government to address issues related to flood risk, safety, and relevant regulations. Discussions have also taken place with Evie Networks to explore potential partnership opportunities and gain insights from their experience.

5.4 Businesses on Centre Avenue, Garden City whose customers utilise parking in this location were consulted in January 2026. Their feedback will help inform the finalised license.

Public Utility Pole Mounted

5.5 Council officers have an ongoing collaboration with charging technology providers, EVX and Intellihub, to explore implementation opportunities.

5.6 Officers also advocated to regulatory bodies and the Victorian Government to resolve regulatory challenges.

5.7 Community consultation was conducted in November and December 2023 through Council’s ‘Have Your Say’ platform, inviting feedback on potential locations for utility pole-mounted EV chargers.

5.8 Council received input from 89 contributors—primarily from Port Melbourne, St Kilda and South Melbourne—who suggested a total of 173 locations. Over half (51%) of respondents recommended more than one site. This information has informed current site investigations.

5.9 In locations where a pole mounted charger is proposed, notification letters are delivered to residents and businesses within 100m of the location three months prior to the installation, informing them that the site is being considered and providing contact details for feedback and questions. Six weeks prior to installation, a further letter is provided to residents / businesses indicating an installation date and providing contact details for questions.

6. LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS

6.1 The public EV charging projects have experienced delays due to complex negotiations between suppliers and distribution network service providers (CitiPower/ Powercor/ United Energy) to approve installation of EV chargers on utility poles.

6.2 Installation of public EV chargers could hamper redevelopment proposed for public carparks. This risk can be mitigated by entering leases/licences with providers with an appropriate termination clause.

7. FINANCIAL IMPACT

7.1 Costs to install, operate and maintain public charging infrastructure will be incurred by the EV charging infrastructure provider.

7.2 Council’s EV program has budget allocated to accommodate costs associated with community engagement activities ($5k) and changes to parking ($2.5K per charger for signage installation, line marking etc).

7.3 This program budget also covers costs for legal advice, electricity distribution network fees and minor infrastructure upgrades.

8. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

8.1 The following benefits have been identified:

· Lower community greenhouse gas emissions and improved air quality through transition to EVs. (Emissions reductions depend on the electricity source; however, as the grid continues to decarbonise, the environmental benefit will increase over time.)

· Less localised air pollution (e.g. nitrogen oxides, particulate matter) improves urban air quality, benefiting public health.

· EVs are quieter than petrol and diesel vehicles, contributing to lower noise pollution in residential and mixed-use areas.

9. COMMUNITY IMPACT

9.1 The following benefits have been identified:

· Increased access to EV charging for residents without off-street parking (e.g. apartment dwellers), supporting more equitable access to EV adoption.

· Reduced “range anxiety” and encouragement of the broader use of EVs within and beyond local neighbourhoods.

· Attraction of visitors and supports local businesses, especially where chargers are placed near activity centres or commercial precincts.

10. Gender Impact Assessment

10.1 Women and gender-diverse people are more likely to consider personal safety when using public spaces, particularly at night. Public EV chargers that are in locations that are poorly lit, isolated, or in car parks with limited visibility may deter use. Designing charging locations with passive surveillance, good lighting, clear sightlines, and proximity to activity centres helps create a safer and more inclusive environment.

10.2 Women, on average, are more likely to be trip-chaining (e.g. combining work, school drop-off, errands). Charger locations near key destinations—schools, shops, childcare, health services can better support their travel patterns.

10.3 Public charging infrastructure can enable EV access for households that cannot install private chargers. Women, especially single mothers or women in lower-income households, may face additional barriers to EV adoption (e.g. affordability, access to off-street parking).

11. ALIGNMENT TO COUNCIL PLAN AND COUNCIL POLICY

11.1 The installation of public EV charging infrastructure is directly aligned with Strategic Direction 2 - An Environmentally Sustainable and Resilient City in the Council Plan 2025-35.

11.2 In November 2023, Council endorsed the Act and Adapt Sustainable Environment Strategy 2023-2028 and committed to support uptake of EVs and explore installation of public charging stations in CoPP (Initiative 30).

12. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY

TIMELINE

12.1 Licence agreements with Evie Networks for installation of the public fast EV charging infrastructure at the locations listed will occur before 30 May 2026.

12.2 Installation of EV charging at each location is dependent on third party electric requirements and exact times cannot be determined at this stage. However, installation will be throughout 2026 and into 2027.

12.3 Licence agreements with Intellihub for installation of pole chargers will be signed as locations are determined.

COMMUNICATION

12.4 The community will be informed of the commitment Council is making to EV charging infrastructure through Council’s website, social media, Divercity and topic focused newsletters.

12.5 Temporary ‘Coming soon’ signage will be placed at each EV charging location prior to installation of the chargers with QR codes linking to Council’s website where more details will be provided.

12.6 Three months prior to the proposed installation of both the fast chargers and pole mounted chargers, notification letters will be delivered to residents within 100m of the location informing them that the site is being considered and providing contact details for feedback and questions. Six weeks prior to installation a further letter will be delivered to the residents indicating an installation date and providing contact details for questions.

13. OFFICER MATERIAL OR GENERAL INTEREST

13.1 No officers involved in the preparation of this report has declared a material or general interest in the matter.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Details of proposed locations for public EV charging stations⇩

Meeting of the Port Phillip City Council

4 February 2026

12.2	Audit and Risk Committee - Biannual Report to 31 December 2025
Executive Member:	Robyn Borley, General Manager, Governance and Performance
PREPARED BY:	Julie Snowden, Head of Risk and Assurance

1. PURPOSE

1.1 To present the Audit and Risk Committee Biannual Report as at 31 December 2025.

2. EXECUTIVE Summary

2.1 Council is required by the Local Government Act (LGA) 2020 to establish an Audit and Risk Committee (the Committee) as an advisory committee of Council.

2.2 Under the LGA, the Audit and Risk Committee must prepare a biannual report on activities to Council with this paper satisfying the reporting requirement.

2.3 This report was prepared in conjunction with the current Audit and Risk Committee Chair.

2.4 The last update provided to Council was the presentation of the Audit and Risk Committee Biannual report as of 30 June 2025 at the 20 August 2025 Council meeting.

3. RECOMMENDATION

That Council:

3.1 Notes the Audit and Risk Committee Biannual Report as of 31 December 2025, which details activities of the Committee covering scheduled meetings held 2 September 2025 and 16 December 2025.

4. KEY POINTS/ISSUES

4.1 Reporting Period for this Report

This report covers the Committee’s work for scheduled meetings held 2 September 2025 and 16 December 2025.

4.2 Meeting Attendance:

Name	Role	Meetings
Name	Role	2 September 2025 (Scheduled meeting)	16 December (Scheduled Meeting)
Brian Densem	Independent Member (Chair)	Attended	Attended
Helen Lanyon	Independent Member	Attended	Attended
Kylie Maher	Independent Member	Attended	Attended
Louise Crawford	Councillor (Mayor)	Attended	N/A
Bryan Mears	Councillor (Deputy Mayor)	Attended	Apology
Alex Makin	Councillor (Mayor)	N/A	Attended

4.3 Leadership Network

The CEO, General Manager of Governance and Performance, CFO, and Head of Risk and Assurance consistently attend all Audit and Risk Committee meetings. In addition, other members of the Leadership Network participate as needed to present detailed updates on the activities and initiatives within their respective divisions. This approach ensures the Committee gains a comprehensive understanding of matters specific to the City of Port Phillip, enhancing its oversight and strategic insight.

4.4 External Service Providers

The internal audit team (Aster Advisory) attended all scheduled meetings with the external audit team BDO (the agent appointed by the Victorian Auditor General Office VAGO) attending when they have specific items to discuss.

4.5 Committee Business

The agendas for the Committee meetings are driven by the Committee’s Annual Work Plan.

4.6 Annual Work Plan

Under Section 54(3) of the Act, a Committee must adopt an annual work program.

Each year the Committee collaborate with Council’s CEO, General Manager Governance and Performance and Head of Risk and Assurance to ensure that the responsibilities of the Committee are scheduled and will be carried out.

The Annual Work Plan is reviewed at the same time as the Charter to ensure alignment. The work of the Committee over the reporting period is summarised below in each of the key areas.

4.7 Matters considered by the Committee at its 2 September 2025 meeting were:

4.7.1 Committee only time

The Committee met with the Internal/External Auditor/s and the CEO to discuss the effectiveness of the audit relationship and other process matters.

4.7.2 Chief Executive Officer’s Report

The Committee received an overview from the CEO on key activities over the reporting period. This included progress on the Enterprise Agreement, senior leadership changes and expected organisational restructuring. A recent child safety incident triggered incident management activity and accelerated work on triage and critical‑incident pathways. Updates were also provided on ongoing councillor training, Fishermans Bend, community safety priorities and customer experience improvements.

4.7.3 Strategic Risk and Internal Audit (SRIA) update

The Committee noted the regular SRIA update, including work undertaken on progressing a revised strategic risk framework, the regular IT Governance and Disaster Recovery / DTS compliance updates and noted the Internal Audit Recommendations Tracking Status Report

4.7.4 Assurance Activities Update

The Committee endorsed the scopes for the following audits: Fleet Management, Privacy Controls and Accounts Payable; noted the findings from the following audits: Cyber Security, Contract Management, Waste Management Improvement Plan and Child Care Centres. The Committee also noted the Internal Audit Plan status report 2025/26, enhancements made to the Business Function Risk Assurance Map and an update on the Parliamentary Inquiry into Fraud and Corruption in Local Government.

4.7.5 External Audit

The Committee noted the draft closing report and draft final management letter (with the inclusion of some additional information on management actions), the management representation letter, the Asset Revaluation and Depreciation Method review and endorsed the Fixed Asset Accounting Policy 2025 and associated documents.

The Committee also recommended the draft Annual Financial Statements and Performance Statement 2024/25 for signing at the Ordinary Council meeting on 17 September 2025, where Council provided in principle approval of the accounts for sign off by the Victorian Auditor-General subject to changes as discussed in the meeting.

4.7.6 Compliance Monitoring

The Committee noted the regular Compliance update, the annual South Melbourne Market update, the annual Safety and Wellbeing (OHS) update, the annual Procurement update and updates on Climate Change, Register of Delegations, Gifts and Hospitality and Councillor Expenses.

4.7.7 Financial Monitoring

The Committee noted the financial sustainability standing report and the annual Rates Collected / Rates Outstanding Report.

4.7.8 Supplementary Reports

The Committee noted the regular high-level update on Fishermans Bend.

4.8 Matters considered by the Committee at its 16 December 2025 meeting were;

4.8.1 Committee only time

The Committee met with both the CEO and the Internal Auditor/s to discuss the effectiveness of the audit relationship and other process matters.

4.8.2 Chief Executive Officer’s Report

The CEO provided a high‑level update on organisational priorities, including continued work on financial sustainability, major projects and development contributions, and key strategic initiatives in community safety and service planning. Strengthened governance, integrity and child safety practices were highlighted, along with ongoing uplift in AI capability, workforce systems, and innovation. The CEO also briefed the Committee on recent crisis management activities, including Operation Tempest and ongoing public safety preparedness.

4.8.3 Strategic Risk and Internal Audit (SRIA) update

The Committee noted the regular SRIA update, including a brief overview from the Head of Risk and Assurance. The Committee also noted ongoing monitoring of the Planning Reforms risk, renewed focus on the resurfaced Backflow Devices risk with dedicated resourcing now in place. The annual insurance update and the status of internal audit recommendations were also noted, with two extensions to agreed management action timeframes endorsed.

4.8.4 Assurance Activities Update

The Committee endorsed the scopes for the following audits: Statutory Planning and Emergency Management; noted the findings from the following audits: Fleet Management and Accounts Payable. The Committee also noted the Internal Audit Plan status report 2025/26 and the Internal Audit Charter.

4.8.5 External Audit

There were no items for this meeting.

4.8.6 Compliance Monitoring

The Committee noted the regular Compliance update, the annual Business Continuity Planning update, the annual Customer Complaints / Compliance update; the most recent monthly OHS update, the quarterly Child Safety and attestation report and the latest update on Aged Care compliance and reporting.

4.8.7 Financial Monitoring

The Committee noted the financial sustainability standing report, reviewed the financial reporting package and the quarterly financial portfolio deliverability review.

4.8.8 Supplementary Reports

The Committee noted the regular high-level update on Fishermans Bend.

4.8.9 Performance Evaluation

The Committee conducted a self-evaluation on its own performance, noting the results and agreeing focus areas for improvement in the next 12 months.

4.8.10 Nomination of Audit and Risk Committee Chairperson for 2026

The Committee nominated independent member Mr Densem to serve as Chairperson of the Audit and Risk Committee for the 2026 calendar year, for Council consideration at a separate Council meeting.

5. Gender Impact Assessment

5.1 A gender impact assessment was not required in the preparation of this report as gender impacts have been appropriately considered across all items reviewed and discussed by the Committee over the past six months where relevant

6. ALIGNMENT TO COUNCIL PLAN AND COUNCIL POLICY

6.1 An engaged and empowered community:

· Our Council is open, accountable and acts with integrity.

· Our Council effectively managers risk.

7. OFFICER MATERIAL OR GENERAL INTEREST

7.1 No officers involved in the preparation of this report has declared a material or general interest in the matter.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

Meeting of the Port Phillip City Council

4 February 2026

13.1

Proposed Property Lease - 14A Ferrars Place South Melbourne VIC 3205

Executive Member:

Paul Wood, Acting General Manager, City Infrastructure

PREPARED BY:

Vicki Tuchtan, Manager Property and Assets

Michael Major, Team Leader Property Operations

1. PURPOSE

1.1 To offer the Returned & Services League (RSL) of Australia Hellenic Sub-Branch a ten (10) year lease for the Memorial Hall at 14A Ferrars Place, South Melbourne following a public consultation process that received no submissions.

2. EXECUTIVE Summary

2.1 The ANZAC Gardens and Memorial Hall are of historical, aesthetic, and social significance, forming part of the broader St Vincent Gardens precinct. They are of local heritage significance and managed by the City of Port Phillip in its capacity as Committee of Management on behalf of the Crown.

2.2 The RSL has occupied the Memorial Hall at ANZAC Gardens (refer image below) since its establishment in 1924, with the Hellenic Sub-Branch occupying the space since its establishment in 1987.

2.3 The Memorial Hall is situated on Crown Land permanently reserved for “memorial to sailors and soldiers”, as proclaimed by Order in Council on 24 April 1923 (Government Gazette 2 May 1923, p.1153).

MEETING OF THE PORT PHILLIP CITY COUNCIL 1 DECEMBER 2021

2.4 The current tenancy agreement with the RSL Hellenic Sub-Branch is for a five (5) year term. However, the tenant has requested a new lease with a minimum term of ten (10) years, citing their eligibility for current RSL funding streams to improve the premises is dependent on such tenure.

2.5 Under Council’s Property Policy leases terms are typically up to five (5) years, however officers propose that Council consider a lease term greater than this to support the RSL Hellenic Sub-Branch’s funding eligibility and long-term planning.

2.6 Following a resolution of Council adopted at its Ordinary Meeting on 15 October 2025, it was proposed that officers commence the statutory procedures under section 115 of the Local Government Act 2020 (Vic) (“the Act”) to enter into a lease with the RSL Hellenic Sub-Branch for the occupation of the Memorial Hall at 14A Ferrars Place, South Melbourne on the following terms:

2.6.1 Lease term: Ten (10) years;

2.6.2 Commencing rental of $488 (ex GST) per annum subject to fixed three percent (3%) annual rental increments; and

2.6.3 The tenant to be responsible for all consumption-based charges.

2.7 In accordance with Council’s Community Engagement Policy, a public notice was lodged in The Age newspaper on Tuesday 18 November 2025 inviting public feedback on the proposal.

2.8 The proposal was also published on Council’s website under “Public Notices” to align with the public notice lodged in The Age newspaper.

2.9 The deadline for submissions lapsed at 11.59 pm on Thursday 15 December 2025.

2.10 No submissions were received by Council in response to the public notice.

3. RECOMMENDATION

That Council:

3.1 Authorises the Chief Executive Officer, or their delegate, to enter a lease with the Returned & Services League of Australia (Victorian Branch) Hellenic Sub-Branch Incorporated, on the following terms:

3.2.1 A lease term of ten (10) years;

3.1.2 A commencing rental of $488.00 (ex GST) per annum subject to annual fixed 3% increases; and

3.1.4 The tenant to be responsible for all consumption-based charges.

4. KEY POINTS/ISSUES

4.1 The Memorial Hall and ANZAC Gardens precinct reflects early civic planning and commemorates South Melbourne’s contributions to the Great War.

4.2 The site is situated on Crown Land permanently reserved for memorial to sailors and soldiers, as proclaimed by Order in Council on 24 April 1923 (Government Gazette 2 May 1923, p.1153), with Council appointed as the Committee of Management.

4.3 The Memorial Hall and ANZAC Gardens are of local heritage significance under Heritage Overlay HO441 and form part of the historically significant St Vincent Gardens precinct.

4.4 The hall and gardens contribute to the character and visual harmony of the broader St Vincent Gardens landscape.

4.5 The site is highly valued for its role in remembrance, civic pride, and as a long-standing venue for veteran support and commemorative community events.

4.6 The RSL Hellenic Sub-Branch was formally established in April 1987, with its Women’s Auxiliary formed in August 1987. The Sub-Branch has continuously occupied the Memorial Hall since this time.

4.7 The RSL Hellenic Sub-Branch is currently ineligible for certain funding streams due to a requirement for a minimum lease term of ten (10) years. Under Council’s Property Policy leases terms are typically up to five (5) years.

4.8 Council’s Property Policy notes that the lease term needs to be appropriate to the premises and the proposed use. It affords Council the opportunity to negotiate a non-standard term for a lease in circumstances where:

· The use of the premises is unable to be changed, the use is linked to a specific tenant and the tenant has a history of delivering good outcomes for the community;

· The level of capital investment (made or planned) requires amortisation over an extended period of time; or

· There is a licence agreement that needs to be aligned with the tenant’s current lease agreement.

4.9 Council’s Property Policy allows for exemptions, acknowledging that “from time to time, circumstances may arise in which prudent management of the property portfolio requires a departure from the guidance provided in this policy”.

4.10 As described in the South Melbourne Memorial Hall Conservation Management Plan (October 2021), the hall was constructed in the 1920s to both honour the service of diggers during World War I and as a “useful” or “utilitarian” war memorial that would provide benefit to these same local servicemen. This understanding of its use has been enshrined in the wording of the Crown land permanent reservation for purposes of ‘a Memorial to Sailors & Soldiers who served in the war of 1914’.

4.11 While the WWI veterans who once attended have all passed on, the Memorial Hall has been used for RSL purposes from the 1920s almost without pause through to the present.

4.12 The ‘second life’ given to the Memorial Hall by the Hellenic RSL Sub-branch is in keeping with its Crown land reservation.

4.13 Given that the site is situated on Crown Land permanently reserved for memorial to sailors and soldiers, and its use has primarily remained unchanged across its history, officers consider that a lease longer than the typical five (5) year term is appropriate in this instance and proposes a lease term of ten (10) years.

4.14 Noting no submissions were received during the public consultation period, it is recommended that a ten (10) lease be granted to the Returned & Services League of Australia (Victorian Branch) Hellenic Sub-Branch Incorporated subject to Ministerial consent.

5. CONSULTATION AND STAKEHOLDERS

5.1 In line with the 15 October 2025 Council resolution, a public notice was lodged in The Age newspaper on Tuesday 18 November 2025 inviting public feedback on the proposal in accordance with Council’s Community Engagement Policy. A copy of the public notice is attached at Appendix 1.

5.2 The proposal was also published on Council’s website under “Public Notices” to align with the public notice lodged in The Age newspaper.

5.3 The deadline for submissions lapsed at 11.59 pm on Thursday 15 December 2025.

5.4 No submissions were received by Council in response to the public notice.

6. LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS

6.1 The Memorial Hall at 14A Ferrars Place, South Melbourne is situated on Crown Land, with Council as the delegated land manager (Committee of Management). Any proposal to lease the site is subject to approval by the responsible Minister or delegate of the responsible Minister. Approval was granted for Council as the appointed Committee of Management to enter a lease with the proposed tenant over the land being Crown land permanently reserved for memorial to sailors and soldiers by OIC dated 24 April 1923, via Government Gazettal dated 2 May 1923, p.1153.

6.2 Pursuant to section 115(4) of the Act, Council undertook community engagement in accordance with its Community Engagement Policy in respect to the proposed intention to lease the Memorial Hall at 14A Ferrars Place, South Melbourne for a ten (10) year term.

6.3 While Council’s tenancy agreements typically have terms of up to five (5) years, the Property Policy allows negotiation of non-standard lease terms. The policy stipulates that:

“A lease term (including options) cannot exceed the maximum allowed for Crown Land in accordance with the Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978 and Local Government Act 1989” (p.12).

This proposed term complies with those legislative limits.

7. FINANCIAL IMPACT

7.1 In accordance with Council’s Property Policy, Council proposes to enter into a subsidised lease agreement with an annual DEECA (Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action) administration fee, commencing at $488.00 plus GST in 2026, subject to a 3% annual increase.

7.2 It is proposed the tenant will be responsible for a schedule of maintenance and for all consumption-based charges associated with the operation of their service.

8. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

8.1 The recommendation of this report is not considered to have a direct environmental impact.

9. COMMUNITY IMPACT

9.1 The recommendation of this report assists the RSL Hellenic Sub-Branch to continue its work by supporting veterans and their families, preserving Greek Australian military history, and contributing to the broader multicultural community.

9.2 The RSL Hellenic Sub-Branch will seek more intensive use of the Memorial Hall through hire arrangements for broader community usage that do not conflict with its continued RSL use.

10. Gender Impact Assessment

10.1 The proposal is not considered to have any detrimental gender implications and is not required as the proposal relates to a property lease and not a new policy or program.

11. ALIGNMENT TO COUNCIL PLAN AND COUNCIL POLICY

11.1 The proposal aligns to the strategic direction ‘A trusted and high-performing organisation’ ensuring Council’s property and assets meet the needs of current and future generations.

12. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY

12.1 TIMELINE

Subject to the adoption of officer’s recommendation, the following steps will be undertaken:

12.1.1 February 2026 – Grant and Purpose will be sought from DEECA.

12.1.2 February / March 2026 – Lease preparation.

12.1.3 March 2026 – Lease execution by Tenant and Council (as Land Manager).

12.1.4 April 2026 – Ministerial consent and attestation, lease fully executed.

12.2 COMMUNICATION

The public notification process has provided the community with the opportunity to make submissions in respect to the proposal. Having considered that no submissions were received, Council may now determine to issue a new lease to the Returned & Services League of Australia (Victorian Branch) Hellenic Sub-Branch Incorporated.

13. OFFICER MATERIAL OR GENERAL INTEREST

13.1 No officers involved in the preparation of this report has declared a material or general interest in the matter.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Public Notice - 14A Ferrars Place, South Melbourne⇩

Meeting of the Port Phillip City Council

4 February 2026

13.2

Proposed discontinuance and sale of part R1831 (adjoining 56 Park Road, Middle Park VIC 3206)

Executive Member:

Paul Wood, Acting General Manager, City Infrastructure

PREPARED BY:

Vicki Tuchtan, Manager Property and Assets

Michael Major, Team Leader Property Operations

1. PURPOSE

1.1 For Council to consider whether part of R1831 (Road) adjoining 56 Park Road, Middle Park, being part of the Land contained within Certificate of Title Volume 11330 Folio 501 (described as Road R1 on Plan of Subdivision PS641059P) shown outlined below in red on the Plan of Subdivision extract (“the Road”), should be discontinued pursuant to the Local Government Act 1989 (Vic) (“the Act”) and sold to an adjoining property owner (“the Applicant”).

2. EXECUTIVE Summary

2.1 The City of Port Phillip’s Road Discontinuance and Sale of Roads Policy (March 2022) sets out Council’s approach to the discontinuance and sale of roads and laneways to ensure that those roads reasonably required for public access remain open to the public and those not generally required for public access may be discontinued and the land sold.

2.2 By discontinuing roads and laneways, Council intends to:

2.2.1 Reduce long-term maintenance costs for parcels of land that are not required for access;

2.2.2 Reduce Council’s long-term financial and legal liability for roads (i.e. maintenance, cleaning and public liability);

2.2.3 Improve the utility of land that is not otherwise serving a useful purpose;

2.2.4 Improve local amenity for residents of the City of Port Phillip;

2.2.5 Provide a mechanism for the formalisation of the occupation of parcels of land by adjoining owners; and

2.2.6 Provide an equitable return to all ratepayers of the City of Port Phillip from the disposal of land from discontinued roads to private individuals.

2.3 The portion of Road in question is 3.7 square metres (approx.) in total land area. It is currently fenced in with an adjoining property, namely 56 Park Road, Middle Park (refer to Image 1 above).

2.4 The Applicant has requested that Council discontinues and sells part of the Road to them (“the Proposal”).

2.5 The Road is listed on Council’s Register of Public Roads, also known as part R1831.

2.6 This section of the Road is no longer reasonably required for general public use, as it is not used for vehicular or pedestrian access by the public to access the adjoining properties and is currently fenced within the Applicant’s residential allotment.

2.7 Council has no current or future municipal use of the road, thus providing the land to have a more compatible use with the adjoining property.

Image 1: Extract from Plan of Subdivision PS641059P

3. RECOMMENDATION

That Council:

3.1 Acting under section 17(4) of the Road Management Act 2004 (Vic), resolves that part of R1831 be removed from Council’s Register of Public Roads on the basis that the Road is no longer reasonably required for general public use for the reasons set out in this report.

3.2 Acting under clause 3 of Schedule 10 of the Local Government Act 1989 (Vic) (“the Act”):

3.2.1 Resolves that the statutory procedures be commenced to discontinue the Road;

3.2.2 Directs that under sections 207A and 223 of the Act, public notice of the proposed discontinuance and sale of the Road be given in The Age newspaper;

3.2.3 Resolves that the public notice required to be given under sections 207A and 223 of the Act should state that if the Road is discontinued, Council proposes to sell the land in the Road to the adjoining owner of 56 Park Road, Middle Park;

3.2.4 Authorises the Chief Executive Officer, or their delegate, to undertake the administrative procedures necessary to enable Council to carry out its functions under section 223 of the Act in relation to this matter;

3.2.5 Resolves to hear and consider any submissions received pursuant to section 223 of the Act at a future Council meeting; and

3.2.6 If no submissions are lodged in response to the public notice, authorise the Chief Executive Officer or delegate to proceed to discontinue and sell the subject Land for $31,500 plus GST (subject to an updated valuation) plus costs associated with the sale in accordance with Council’s Road Discontinuance and Sale of Roads Policy.

4. KEY POINTS/ISSUES

4.1 The Road is described as part R1 on Plan of Subdivision PS 641059P. A copy of the Plan of Subdivision is at Attachment 1.

4.2 The Road is approximately 3.7 square metres in total land area and is currently fenced in with the Applicant’s residential allotment at 56 Park Road, Middle Park (refer Attachment 2).

4.3 The Applicant proposes that Council discontinues and sells this fenced-in portion of the Road to them.

4.4 The Applicant has agreed to pay Council’s costs and disbursements associated with the proposed discontinuance of the Road, together with the market value for its transfer of the portion of the discontinued road.

4.5 The indicated land value of $8,513 per square metre is based on a valuation undertaken by Westlink Consulting dated 24 October 2025. A revised valuation will be required to comply with Council’s statutory obligations under the Act.

5. CONSULTATION AND STAKEHOLDERS

5.1 The following statutory authorities have been advised of the proposed discontinuance of the Road and were requested to respond to the question of whether they have any existing assets in the Road, which should be saved under section 207C of the Act:

5.1.1 City Power Pty Ltd.

5.1.2 City Of Port Phillip.

5.1.3 Melbourne Water.

5.1.4 Multinet Gas.

5.1.5 NBN Co. Vic Tas.

5.1.6 South East Water Corporation.

5.1.7 Telstra VICTAS.

5.1.8 Wag Pipeline Pty Ltd.

5.2 Council’s Asset Management Department has advised that Council has no direct assets in or above the Road and have no objection to the Proposal.

5.3 A Before You Dig application was undertaken on 9 December 2025 with email replies received from all stated service authorities. The information received indicated that the subject Road is not affected by any adverse encumbrances.

5.4 Council is proceeding on the basis that the respective providers do not have any right, power, or interest which it wishes to be saved under section 207C of the Act.

5.5 The Applicant has written to the property owners at 33 Landridge Street, and 42, 44, 46, 48, 50, 52, and 54 Park Road, Middle Park, advising owners of their intention to purchase the section of Road. At the time of writing this report, neither Council nor the Applicant had received any objection in relation to the proposal.

5.6 If accepted by Council, Officers will notify the community of the proposal through a public notice to be published in The Age newspaper and on Council’s website inviting submissions in accordance with section 223 of the Act.

6. LEGAL AND RISK IMPLICATIONS

6.1 Under clause 3 of Schedule 10 of the Act, a Council has the power to discontinue roads located within its municipality and sell the land from that road or retain the land for itself. Council must first give notice in accordance with sections 207A and 223 of that Act.

6.2 Under section 114 of the Local Government Act 2020 (Vic) (the 2020 Act), a Council must comply with that section if it sells or exchanges land. Section 114 requires that (unless section 116 applies) before selling or exchanging land, a Council must at least four (4) weeks prior to the sale or exchange, publish notice of its intention to do so on Council’s website and in any other prescribed manner, undertake a community engagement process in accordance with its Community Engagement Policy (December 2025), and obtain a valuation from a person qualified under section 13DA(2) of the Valuation of Land Act 1960 (Vic) made not less than 6 months prior to the sale or exchange.

6.3 Council has a Road Discontinuance and Sale of Roads Policy that enables roads that are no longer required for public access to be discontinued and sold to adjoining property owner(s).

7. FINANCIAL IMPACT

7.1 The Applicant has agreed to purchase the Land for its market value (plus GST). If Council proposes to transfer the Road, it will need a current valuation of the Road in accordance with the 2020 Act. This aligns with Council’s Road Discontinuance and Sale of Roads Policy.

7.2 The Applicant has agreed to pay Council’s costs and disbursements associated with the proposed discontinuance of the Road.

7.3 An independent valuation of the land dated 24 October 2025 determined the market value at $8,513 per square metre excluding GST. In accordance with Council’s Road Discontinuance and Sale of Roads Policy, the value attributed to the land in the Road is based on the following assumptions:

7.3.1 The Road is valued on a “direct comparison on land value rate”, taking into consideration restrictions due to the shape and location of the site, and the limited width of the site restricts potential redevelopment of the site in isolation without consolidation with adjoining property; and

7.3.2 No discount is applicable to the full land value due to the limited purchasing market for the Road.

7.4 A revised market valuation will be required if the proposal is supported by Council.

8. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

8.1 The Proposal is not considered to have or contribute to any detrimental environmental implications.

9. COMMUNITY IMPACT

9.1 Council will facilitate the discontinuance and sale of roads where appropriate consultation has occurred, legislative requirements have been met, and it is considered that road discontinuance and sale is in the best interest of the wider community.

9.2 The proposed discontinuance and sale of the Road will enable the land in the Road to be re-purposed.

9.3 If Council resolves to discontinue and sell the Road, proceeds from the sale will go into Council’s Strategic Property Reserves used to support the acquisition and development of Council’s property portfolio.

10. Gender Impact Assessment

10.1 The proposal is not considered to have any detrimental gender implications.

11. ALIGNMENT TO COUNCIL PLAN AND COUNCIL POLICY

11.1 The proposal aligns with the Strategic Direction 6 in the Plan for Port Phillip 2025-35: A trusted and high-performing organisation, where our community and our organisation are in a better place as a result of our collective efforts.

11.2 This aligns with Council’s Road Discontinuance and Sale of Roads Policy and Community Engagement Policy.

12. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY

12.1 TIMELINE

12.1.1 Council is required to comply with Section 114 of the 2020 Act and clause 3 of schedule 10 of the Act. This section requires Council to give at least four (4) weeks public notice of its intention to sell land and undertake a community engagement process in accordance with Council’s Community Engagement Policy.

12.1.2 The public notice will provide any person with an opportunity to make a submission in response to the public notice and an opportunity to speak to the submission.

12.1.3 Section 10 of the Act also requires a valuation of the subject land to be undertaken that is not more than six (6) months old. This will be undertaken should the proposal be supported by Council.

12.1.4 If no objections are received and the Proposal is approved:

o Part R1831 will be removed from Council’s Register of Public Roads on the basis that the Road is no longer reasonably required for general public use for the reasons set out in this report;

o A notice will be published in the Victorian Government Gazette to formally discontinue the Road; and

o A contract of sale for the discontinued Road and transfer of the discontinued Road pursuant to section 207D of the Act will be prepared by Council’s solicitors.

12.2 COMMUNICATION

12.2.1 The public notification process will provide the community with the opportunity to make submissions in respect of the Proposal. If no submissions are received, Council can determine to discontinue and sell the Road.

12.2.2 The Applicant will be advised of the final Council decision and the reasons for it within five (5) business days of the Council meeting.

13. OFFICER MATERIAL OR GENERAL INTEREST

13.1 No officers involved in the preparation of this report has declared a material or general interest in the matter.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Plan of Subdivision PS 641059P⇩

2. Aerial Image - Proposed Road Discontinuance 56 Park Road, Middle Park VIC⇩

12.1	Quarterly reporting of Records of Informal Meetings of Council - 1 October - 31 December 2025
Executive Member:	Robyn Borley, General Manager, Governance and Performance
PREPARED BY:	Joshua Vearing, Council Business Advisor

13.3	Audit and Risk Committee - Appointment of Chairperson 2026
Executive Member:	Robyn Borley, General Manager, Governance and Performance
PREPARED BY:	Julie Snowden, Head of Risk and Assurance