Mayor’s report

While the 2019/20 financial year introduced new social challenges, it did not stall the momentum of Council to continue working towards a sustainable and resilient Georges River community. We were able to strike a balance this financial year between responding immediately to the COVID-19 pandemic and continuing to plan for our future.

We implemented the ‘Economic and Social Recovery Plan’ in response to the unprecedented impacts of COVID-19 on local businesses and the community at large, to complement packages rolled out by the State and Federal Governments. The 2019/20 financial year saw the first two of three phases actioned.

Phase 1 ‘Immediate Support’ actions were implemented to support businesses and the community, including a business support program, #WeAreInThisTogether campaign and the waiving or reduction of fees and charges. Support was also provided for Georges River healthcare workers and the use of Council-owned sites for COVID-19 testing was offered.

We provided translated messages in community languages for COVID-19 restrictions and food safety and Council initiated outdoor dining licence fee exemptions, reduction in development assessment fees for commercial fitouts for a period of six months; and faster payment for local suppliers. We moved to increase on-line learning and digital programs for libraries and gallery exhibitions and provided free reservation of spaces at our childcare centres.

Phase 2 ‘Revival’ actions prepare Georges River for a relaxing of restrictions and a full re-opening and include initiatives that help prepare and respond to the changing environment both economically and socially.

This stage has included:

works on key capital projects business support through grant funding, programs and courses pursuit of Government grants for “shovel-ready” projects development and delivery of COVID-19 safe events investigating public domain improvements: including temporary widening of footpaths and pop up parks. The ‘Georges River Innovation Strategy’ was launched, positioning us as a leader for change and fostering a culture of innovation locally. The strategy will see us creating a collaborative innovation network where we will be able to gather insights from government, business, non-government organisations, start-ups, research institutions, entrepreneurs and the community.

We also launched the ‘Georges River 2050 – Leading for Change’ vision which seeks to build a better future, amplify strengths and unlock opportunities. In 2050 the Georges River area will be an accessible, green, diverse and innovative place, community and economy. In 2050, Georges River is connected, naturally and our aspirations for our city are that we are accessible, green, diverse and innovative.

I was very proud to open the first women’s crisis accommodation centre in the Georges River area – a significant milestone in Council’s fight against domestic and family violence, made all the more poignant due to the increase in domestic violence incidents under the strain of the pandemic.

I would like to thank the staff of Council for their commitment to adapting in a challenging year in order to continue to support and serve the Georges River community. I also thank our community for their cooperation in heeding the advice of the health authorities and their support to each other, our local businesses and our frontline workers.

The significant contribution of our volunteers, who work alongside us across many parts of our community, is something we are deeply grateful for particularly at this time. The impact your time and energy has on local people’s lives is immeasurable, and your shared value of providing service to our community makes it a stronger and kinder one.

Kevin Greene

Mayor Georges River Council