Agenda of Ordinary Council Meeting

Ordinary Council Meeting

2 April 2009

General Manager's Report

ITEM 8.1 SF959 020409 Outstanding Actions and Reports March 2009

AUTHOR/ENQUIRIES: Michael Coulter, General Manager

Summary:

The following table is a report on all outstanding resolutions and questions from Councillors (except development consents, development control plans & local environmental plans). Matters which are simply noted or received, together with resolutions adopting rates, fees and charges are not listed as outstanding actions. Where matters have been actioned they are indicated with ~~strikethrough~~ and then removed from the report to the following meeting. Please note that the status comments have been made one week before the Council meeting.

Recommendation:

That the list of outstanding actions and reports be noted and received for information by Council.

FILE NO

COUNCIL

MEETING

SUMMARY OF MATTER

ACTION

STATUS

SEPTEMBER 2007

SF428

20/09/07

That Council vigorously pursue the exclusion of the Farmland Mapping from those areas already identified for rural residential development that are already fragmented or removed from primary production. All affected property owners within the quota zoning to be directly notified.

DEP

Department of Planning advised by letter 12/10 that all previous 1(C) zoned land and land not identified as Class 1, 2 or 3 Agricultural Land within the "broken black line" in Council's LEP will be excluded from the farmland mapping project. Six pockets still to be resolved. Which will be finalised after the Draft-Rural Residential Strategy is ratified by Council.

Response received and being assessed.

Draft RRS now on exhibition, with submissions being considered.

Met with DoP 20/5 to further discuss Rural Residential & Farmland Mapping. Working towards a resolution.

Met with DoP on Tuesday 11/11/08 where agreement has been reached on the exclusion of 4 pockets and part of the other 2 pockets. A map and letter from the DoP should be received by the end of November 2008.

D of P to respond in next few weeks.

Response received regarding Rural Residential Land Release Strategy which also refers to the 6 pockets of land. See item in business paper 19/2.

A separate report to come in regard to the six pockets of land

JUNE 2008

~~SF793~~

~~05/06/08~~

~~NoM - Council write to the appropriate department and request a total ban on night netting on all Nambucca Shire Council beaches.~~

~~DES~~

~~Report on commercial fishermen to be prepared for Council after further consulting with the Department of Primary Industries. Ongoing discussions with DPI.~~

~~DPI recommended a local meeting with the representative of the commercial fishermen, DPI and Council.~~

~~Dave Mitchell (Commercial Fishermen Representative of the Ocean Haul Operators) has agreed to discuss this years operations with Council before the end of March.~~

The meeting with Dave Mitchell was held on the 25 March 2009 and as a result Council determined a number of actions:

1 That a letter be written to the Minister for Primary Industries seeking legislation that enables enforcement of the Code of Conduct for Ocean Haul Fishermen.

2 That information be sought on the success or otherwise of having a Professional Fishermen's Motor Vehicle Beach Access Permit.

3 That the Department of Primary Industries Representative raise the concerns of Nambucca Shire Council at the next meeting of the Ocean Haul Operators Management Advisory Committee.

4 That the Department of Primary Industries be asked to provide temporary signage on the beach that advises the public that Beach Haul fishing is underway with reference to the Department of Primary Industries Website.

JULY 2008
3	Item 9.9	03/07/08	Council make representation to Minister for Lands seeking agreed compensation for subdivision of Reserve 91694	GM	Letter sent 15/07/08. Follow up letter sent 14/11/2008. Minister for Lands has advised by letter dated 8/1/09 that land will be made available to Council as per the agreement following finalisation of an Aboriginal Land Claim.
4	Item 9.1	03/07/08	Council form working party to resolve conflicting issues surrounding the use of footpaths	DEP	Working party meeting to be arranged August/ September. To be deferred to after elections. Arrangements made to hold meeting on 18 December at 2.00 pm Meeting held 26 February 09. Outcomes of meeting to come to Council in a report.
5	Item 11.4	03/07/08	That a new plan of management be prepared for Farringdon Playing Fields	DES	~~Awaiting outcome of grant application before proceeding.~~ ~~Outcome of grant expected early December but not yet received.~~ Funding declined. Work on preparing plan to be scheduled. Interested parties will need to identify potential uses for inclusion in revised plan of management.

OCTOBER 2008
6	RF256	16/10/08	Notice of Motion - Riverbank Erosion - Riverside Drive Nambucca Heads – report re geotechnical engineers re stability of Riverside Drive	DES	Subject to GHD undertaking evaluation. Three separate assessments underway: 1 GHD comment: Riverside Drive Bank Stability: Drilling carried out November 08 at Doyles Lane, Jason cottage and Ellis Ave. Survey of crest and toe completed. Vegetation cut back to allow survey of bank contours etc. after survey completed then the geotech model is developed. Report for Jason Cottages due by 3 April 2009. Additional clearing and survey required for Doyles Lane slip. 2 GHD comment: Riverside Drive Road Stability(West) Hazard mapping completed mid December 08. draft report prepared in January 09 for internal review. Report due by 3 April 2009 3 GHD comment: Catchment Assessment Development of methodology. Catchment base maps and data being prepared as GIS resources permit. Approximate half forwarded to GHD.
NOVEMBER 2008
7	SF544	6/11/08	Council receive a report on options for the provision of matching general fund contributions for the S94 works schedule for community facilities and open space. Including the possibility of establishing a reserve.	GM	To be considered with draft budget for 2009/10. Report May 2009.
8	SF544	6/11/08	Council review its Policy on Deferment of Section 94 payments.	GM	Report January 2009 Government has changed its policy on Deferred Contributions. Awaiting clarification. Report in March 2009. Deferred to April 2009.
9	SF544	6/11/08	Council review biennial the Community Infrastructure and Infrastructure Needs Study and review annually the Section 94 Community Facilities and Open Space Contributions Plan Works Schedule.	GM	Report November 2009
10	SF844	20/11/08	Council invite Phillip Costa to inspect off-stream water storage site at Bowraville	GM	Invitation issued 26/11/08
11	SF285	20/11/08	Council consider what resources might be needed to prepare a new Social and Community Plan as part of the 2009/2010 budget.	DEP	Target for Plan’s presentation is June 2009 in accordance with the 2008-09 Management Plan.
12	SF42	20/11/08	That Council receive a report back on the Dept. of Local Government Circular 08-61 – Plumbing Inspections by Council.	DEP	16 April 2009
13	SF820	20/11/08	The 3 Councils get together to review the operation of the Coffs Coast Waste Service.	DES	Information conveyed to Coffs Harbour. Report proposed for March GPC. Deferred to April GPC
DECEMBER 2008
14	SF785	4/12/08	Submit application for grant funding for Crime Prevention Grants Invite NSW Police + NSW Attorney General’s department to discuss Crime Prevention Plan	DEP	Application submitted 10 December 2008. See item in business paper. Invitation to be issued during week of 12-16 Jan. Invitations issued to NSW AGs - declined due to travel bans
15	SF15	4/12/08	That Council reconvene the Saleyard Advisory Committee to determine mid to long term operational strategies for the Macksville saleyards.	GM	Meeting to be arranged in January 2009. Representatives sought at sale on 7 January 2009. Rescheduled to February 2009. List of Committee members obtained on 25 February. Meeting to be scheduled.
16	SF688	4/12/08	That during the first half of the 2009/10 year Council call for community input into a new Environmental Levy program for the 5 year period to the end of 2014/2015.	DEP	Programmed for September 2009.
17		~~18/12/08~~	~~That Council seek to amend the existing Plan of Management for the Vernon Street playing fields (Buz Brazel Park) by~~ updating the commentary, removing reference to a Master Plan and replacing the map with the plan supported by the General Purpose Committee (being the coloured circularised document) and then placing the amendments on exhibition in accordance with the requirements of the Local Government Act 1993.	~~DES~~	~~Draft being prepared for exhibition in February 2009.~~ ~~Exhibition period 5 February to 5 March 2009. Last day for submissions 19 March.~~ ~~Reported to Council 2 April 2009.~~
18		18/12/08	1 Argents Hill Hall - The Committee of Management be invited to apply for grant funding to undertake repairs to the Hall under the Public Reserves Management Fund. 2 Council as Manager of the Trust formally concur to the addition of Lot 5 DP 879153 to the Reserve.	GM	Letter sent 9 January 09
19		18/12/08	Alliance Tender for the Provision of a Corporate Software System That Council seek the agreement of the tenderers to an extended evaluation period which will conclude on 30 June 2009.	GM	MIT consulting with tenderers. Tender evaluation to occur April/May 2009.
20	SF871	18/12/08	Council advertise the Pioneer Community Centre for sale by tender. Occupants of the building to be notified of Council’s action. Nothing be done until after April 2009 having considered submissions from user groups and that Council make a decision at that time.	GM	Underway. CoM requested a period of 2.5 months to check report on building condition before a Council meeting. This has been agreed. Building report expected this month.
21	SF871	18/12/08	Council inspect the Pioneer Community Centre and Grants Hall at the April GPC	GM	To be listed for April GPC
22	SF639	18/12/08	Council consider the appointment of an Asset Manager in its budget for 2009/10.	GM	Report May 2009
23	SF639	18/12/08	Council review the Planning Department upon completion of current work program.	GM	Report July 2009.
24	SF1046	18/12/08	That the Wellington Drive component of the Urban Design Strategy be deferred pending a further report to Council in relation to further studies re land slip, rising sea level and traffic/parking.	DEP	Report March 2009. Deferred in Draft Budget. 16 April 2009 meeting.
25	SF30	18/12/08	Council consider an increase of 10% per capita in their contribution to Clarence Regional Library for 2009/10 ($14,000).	DEP	Included in Draft Budget.
26	SF30	18/12/08	Council investigate becoming registered as a deductible gift recipient in regard to library services.	DEP	Being investigated by Council’s Finance Staff. Report to March 2009. Deferred to April 2009
27	SF757	18/12/08	Council work towards establishing an alcohol free zone in Bowraville and allocate $1,000 to implementation.	DEP	Awaiting statistics from Police for inclusion in the consultation proposal for the AFZ. Written request sent 12 January with follow up on 13 & 28 Jan and 6 & 9 February 09 The proposal is currently on exhibition closing 30 March 09.
JANUARY 2009
28	NoM	15/01/09	Council seek a time frame for land acquisition for the highway upgrade. That the Minister be requested to receive a delegation from Council.	GM	Letter written
29	NoM	15/01/09	What policies does Council have with the Lands Dept for the leased area at Scotts Head?	GM	To be reported with Draft Master Plan.
30	~~SF733~~	~~15/01/09~~	~~Council seek further information regarding transition from coal powered to renewable energy and a National Feed-in Tariff Policy with a view to developing a position on this issue~~	GM	~~Report in April 2009. Report in business paper.~~
31	SF62	15/01/09	Council advertise by open tender the management and operation of the Macksville Aquatic Centre for an initial period of 2 years.	GM	Tender documentation currently being advertised – closing 16 April 2009
32	~~SF939~~	~~15/01/09~~	~~Council develop a marketing slogan for the Shire.~~	GM	~~Report in May 2009. Report in business paper.~~
33	PRF53	15/01/09	Preparation of landscape design for River Street, Macksville in consultation with Joan’s Army and Council staff.	DES	Quotations being sought. Late March.
34	PRF53	15/01/09	Council investigate a grant to provide a boardwalk from Macksville CBD along Tilly Willy Creek to the concrete works with access through to McKay Street.	DES	Referred to Grants Officer. Likely to be an issue with property owners who have direct access to Tilly Willy Creek. Views of residents in McKay Street be sought.
35	PRF53	15/01/09	DES enquire with Department of Public Works about opportunities to remove or refurbish the river gauging station in River Street, Macksville.	DES	Letter sent to the Manly Hydraulics Laboratory. The Dept of Commerce have advised that Council in 1981 raised no objection to the Department of Public Works proposal to install an automatic recorder after consideration of the approximate location and type of structure, The site is important because of the consistency with historical data. An alternative building or structure must still use the same site.
36	PRF614	15/01/09	Council request NSW Water Solutions to undertake further modelling in the IWCM based on a variety of population growth figures, including 1% growth, different capital costs so as to assess the sensitivity of projected water rates and developer contributions to changes in these variables.	DES	~~Underway~~ Further modelling will only be for the 1% population growth scenario. Results will be included in the Final Strategy paper which is due to be received by the end of March 2009.
FEBRUARY 2009
37	SF706	5/02/09	That Council staff prepare a funding application for solar hot water and rainwater tanks for the Council Administration building provided it is fully funded.	GM	Referred to Grants Officer for preparation of grant.
38	SF241	5/02/09	That a new plan of management for the reserve within Kingsworth Estate be prepared by DES. To include pedestrian and vehicular access arrangements and management of environmental values.	DES	October 2009
39	SF869	19/02/09	Council write to Country Energy concerning energy being wasted with street lighting at the Pearl Estate off the Pacific Highway at Valla, pointing out there are no houses and the road is blocked to prevent access.	DES	Letter sent seeking charge to Council determining when street lights in new subdivisions are energised. No response as at 24 March 2009.
40	SF1031	19/02/09	That a report come back to Council on its capacity to keep electronic information long term and in a fail safe condition.	GM	MIT to report in July 2009.
MARCH 2009
41	SF1297	5/03/09	That Council make representations to the DECC and RFS re requirements for bushfire asset protection zones around houses.	DEP	Letters to be prepared and sent. Letters sent 16 March 2009.
42	~~SF1269~~	~~5/03/09~~	~~That the DEP report to Council on the 5.0m height limit areas, other than Matthew Street, and whether or not there are sufficient reasons for further requests for variation.~~	~~DEP~~	~~Urgent report being prepared for GPC 18 March 2009.~~ ~~Report prepared and distributed to Councillors for consideration.~~
43	DA09/049	5/03/09	The RTA be requested to revise the speed limit along the Pacific Highway at Bellwood to 50km/hr.	DES	Letter sent. No response as at 24 March 2009.
44	SF135	5/03/09	That Council receive a breakdown and explanation of the $9,000 (for the SoE Report) so that it may be considered in the 09/10 budget.	DEP	Report to be prepared and submitted with Budget
45	DA09/061	5/03/09	That Council review the Carparking Section 94 plan for Nambucca Heads	GM	Target report to Council in July 2009
46	SF982	5/03/09	Report on income and expenditure re Ranger when draft budget for 09/10 is considered.	DEP	Report to be prepared and submitted with Budget
47	SF1269	5/03/09	That Council investigate the purchase of privately owned industrial land adjoining the Macksville industrial estate	GM	Cost of feasibility study being investigated. Report by April 2009.
48	SF1269	19/03/09	Section 94 Plan for the Bellwood area be reviewed as a matter of urgency.	GM	DES has engaged RoadNet to prepare a report on required infrastructure and cost. Report May 2009.
49	SF959	19/03/09	Council raise lack of staffing, opening hours and security at the Macksville Court House with the Attorney General.	GM	Letter sent 24/03/09
50	SF791	19/03/09	Proposed sale of old Gumma Road sanitary depot be deferred to allow for further investigation of prior use.	GM	Report to next Land Development Committee meeting.
51	SF791	19/03/09	That a report come back to the Land Development Committee on the outcome of advertising for expressions of interest for the purchase and development of industrial land in Nambucca Heads.	GM	Report to come back following advertisting.
52	SF1301	19/03/09	Council hold 1 workshop for Section 355 Committees to explain information package and to discuss any issues or concerns the Committees may have in relation to their operations.	GM	Workshop being organised for 5.00pm Wednesday 3 June 2009.
53	SF1213	19/03/09	Subcommittee be established to review the Draft Management Plan 2009/2029 – Targets/Objectives/Strategies	GM	Memo issued to Councillors re participation.
54	SF241	19/03/09	Nambucca LEP 2008 be deferred to a workshop to allow for further discussion and consideration.	DEP	Workshop planned for Friday 3 April 2009.
55	SF744	19/03/09	Council receive a report on the released bond for the Wia-Ora sand and gravel quarry.	DEP	Report targeted for presentation prior to end of May 2009.

Attachments:

Ordinary Council Meeting - 2 April 2009

Draft Information Technology Strategic Plan 2009

Attachment 1

6708/2009 - Information Technology Strategic Plan 2009

DRAFT

Nambucca Shire Council

Information Technology Strategic Plan

2009

Corporate Services Directorate

(March 2009)

Our Vision

Nambucca Valley ~ Living at its best

Mission

‘The Nambucca Valley will value and protect its natural environment, maintain its assets and infrastructure and develop opportunities for its people’.

1. Executive Summary. 3

2. Introduction.. 3

2.1 Exclusions to the Plan.. 3

2.2 Reference Documents. 3

2.3 Definitions and Acronyms. 4

3. Current Assessment 4

3.1 Nambucca Shire Council Snapshot 4

3.2 Corporate Systems. 4

3.2.1 Fujitsu 2000plus. 6

3.2.2 ESRI (Arcview) GIS.. 7

3.2.3 Website Content Management System (Pagemind). 8

3.2.4 Records Management (Trim). 8

3.2.5 Business Paper Management (InfoCouncil). 9

3.2.6 Customer Requests (Merit). 9

3.2.7 Office Automation (Microsoft Office). 9

3.2.8 Online DA Tracking (Masterview). 9

3.2.9 Other and External Applications. 10

3.3 IT Infrastructure. 10

3.3.1 Servers and Storage. 10

3.3.2 Data communications (Switches, routers, firewalls). 10

3.4. IT Security. 11

3.5 IT Disaster Recovery Plans/Business Continuity. 11

3.6 Collaborative Issues. 12

3.7 NSC Strategic Initiatives. 12

4. Information Technology Staff 12

5. Major Strategic Initiatives. 13

5.2 Disaster recovery infrastructure. 13

5.3 Asset Management (Software Implementation). 13

5.4 Council Intranet Implementation.. 14

5.5 Access, Anywhere, Anytime. 14

5.6 Helpdesk. 15

5.7 Information Systems Directory & Governance. 15

5.8 Summary. 16

6. Financial Analysis. 16

6.1 Summary of Forecast IT Expenditure. 16

7. IT Governance & Management 17

7.1 Roles & responsibilities. 17

7.2 Managing the Plan.. 17

8. Summary of Strategies and Projects (not identifed as Major Strategic Initiatives Section 5) 17

1. Executive Summary

The major strategic Information Technology initiatives over the next 3 financial years can be summarised as follows.

2009/10	20010/11	2011/12
Replacement of Corporate Information System (Fujitsu 2000plus)	Replacement of Corporate Information System (Fujitsu 2000plus)
Disaster recovery infrastructure	Asset Management (Software Implementation)
Council Intranet Implementation
Access, Anywhere, Anytime	Access, Anywhere, Anytime	Access, Anywhere, Anytime
Helpdesk
Information Systems Directory & Governance	Information Systems Directory & Governance

The other 28 initiatives and projects outlined in this document provide for ongoing support and enhancement of the existing IT infrastructure and will support the major initiatives above.

2. Introduction

The purpose of this plan is to support to the NSC Management and Strategic Plans, and formalise strategies for Information Technology.

The plan itself focuses on:

§ Building and strengthening the IT infrastructure through sound planning and financial commitment

§ Enhancing the range of methods to access the resources provided by the IT infrastructure

§ Identifying strategies and initiatives to further align IT services with the business.

2.1 Exclusions to the Plan

The plan does not discuss infrastructure operated and managed by areas outside of IS such as infrastructure for the Water & Sewerage telemetry system and the Library systems.

2.2 Reference Documents

This plan references the NSC Management Plan and is based on the NSW Government Chief Information Office’s Information Management and Technology Strategic Plan Template.

2.3 Definitions and Acronyms

DLG	Department Local Government
EDMS	Electronic Document Management System
GIS	Geographical Information System
IS	Information services
IT	Information Technology
NSC	Nambucca Shire Council

3. Current Assessment

This section assesses the current status of the IT infrastructure including the equipment, systems (applications), services provided and risk mitigation strategies.

3.1 Nambucca Shire Council Snapshot

Nambucca Shire is a rural coastal Council located in the Mid-North Coast region of NSW. It supports urban centres, small villages and a diverse range of rural holdings. 2006 census figures indicate a total population of 17,869. The shire has an annual growth rate of 1.3%.

Through its Management Plan 2006/7 NSC has identified that:

1 Technology should be used to effectively interact and transact with the community and Council should:

§ Promote Council’s website in all promotional materials

§ Update Council website on an ongoing basis

§ Provide online functions which meet community need and encourage use of the website (e.g. local statistics, reports for use in funding applications)

§ Become an online portal to the community by providing links to local websites, service guides and directories

2 Strategically, Council should ensure that it has current, cost effective and responsive information technology systems.

Corporate information systems require a significant financial commitment by the organisation to ensure that the management plan objectives and initiatives are delivered to the community.

3.2 Corporate Systems

Council operates numerous corporate systems. These can be broken down into the four following categories.

Core Applications

1. Fujitsu 2000plus integrated application suite encompassing Rating, Land and Property Information, Financial Management, Payroll, Personnel, Planning Certificates and Developments, Water Billing and Cemeteries Management.

2. Spatial Information (ESRI Arcview)

General Applications

3. Council’s Website (PageMind CMS)

4. Records Management (Trim Context)

5. Business Paper Management (InfoCouncil)

6. Customer Requests (Merit)

7. Office Automation (Microsoft Office)

8. Online DA tracking (Masterview)

Other Applications

The table below contains a range of other software applications used within NSC.

System	Function
Civilcad	Civil Design
Autocad	Engineering & Design
Reflect	Pavement Management
MVRS	meter reading
Power Budget	Financial reporting & analysis
OOSoft	Job Evaluation
Symantec Endpoint protection	Antivirus
Tecom Titan Security	Building Security

External Applications

Council staff currently access a number of information systems owned and managed by external organisations. These organisations include:

§ DLG (Companion Animals)

§ Roads and Traffic Authority

§ NSW Police

§ National Australia Bank

§ StateCover Mutual (Workers Compensation Claims)

§ Australian Taxation Office

3.2.1 Fujitsu 2000plus

Council’s major corporate software (Fujitsu 2000plus) includes its property information system, applications system, rating system, payroll and all financials. The software is integrated in that Council staff have the ability to readily move between its different applications. The software was purchased from a firm called ICL Australia in 1990 which was subsequently taken over by Fujitsu Australia.

Fujitsu Australia has now been taken over by a competing local government software provider, Civica. Civica have advised that they will maintain the Fujitsu software for an indefinite period but have advised they will not undertake significant development of the software.

Following a report to Council in August 2008 it was endorsed that Council proceed with an alliance tender for the supply, installation, training and annual maintenance of a corporate software system to replace Fujitsu 2000plus.

This tender process is current and a recommendation is expected by 1 July 2009.

The following modules have been tendered for:

Financial Modules	Property Modules	Other Modules
Asset Accounting	Building Certificates	Payroll
Creditors	Cemetery	Personnel
Debtors	Customer Names	Superannuation
Direct Debits	Licenses
General Ledger	Mapping Integration
Loans	Online services eg DAs etc
Online Receipting	Ordinance 70
Plant	Planning Certificates
Stores	Planning Developments
Trust Deposits	Property
	Rates
	Section 94
	Water Billing

Integration with the following third party products was also required:

§ Trim Records Management

§ ESRI ArcGis

§ MVRS meter reading

Tenderers were also required to provide details of any proposed or additional modules.

Issues:

§ Replace Fujitsu 2000plus core application software.

§ Reduced productivity and efficiency levels during the implementation and post-implementation phases of “the replacement product” as staff gain knowledge in new system and reengineered business processes.

§ Ongoing maintenance costs for the system may be higher than anticipated if training is not adequate.

§ Demand for access to property information in the public domain is increasing.

§ Demand for use of mobile devices in the field for recording data such as inspection results etc.

Strategies / Projects:

§ Evaluate tenders and select suitable replacement product.

§ Adequate financial funding is built into the IS recurrent budget for annual costs.

§ Significant benefits can be achieved by implementing the “the replacement product” .

§ NSC to implement the “the replacement product” system in a timely manner ensuring all staff are adequately trained (see Major Strategic Initiative 5.1).

§ Staged implementation of eservices modules will achieve significant efficiencies and benefits in Council’s business with the ability to interact with customers including:

o Pre-Lodgement Advice

o Application Online Lodgement

o Applications Monitoring & Management

o Government Agency Interface (to enable integration to government agencies to handle referrals and appeal processes.

§ Commence publication of maps on the Council’s website.

3.2.2 ESRI (Arcview) GIS

Council recently upgraded the Council’s GIS software from Informaster to ESRI as the Informaster product was being withdrawn from the market place and no longer supported.

Issues:

§ Additional ArcGis editing licences may be required after implementation of an Asset Management application software.

Strategies / Projects:

§ A recent audit of user requirements was undertaken and these requirements have been prioritised and scheduled for completion.

3.2.3 Website Content Management System (Pagemind)

Council has a limited presence on the internet with its web site (www.nambucca.nsw.gov.au ) . This site has minimal transactional capability.

The information contained on Council’s website is managed using PageMind Content Management System.

Rapid growth in the capabilities of the internet and related technologies, the growing use of the internet by customers, and expectations by customers to access Council services via the internet provides great opportunities to enhance service delivery and improve the performance of staff.

Issues:

§ Council’s website has minimal information and not always current.

§ Minimal eservices are available through website.

Strategies / Projects:

§ Training of staff in the development of their own content for publication on Council’s website

§ Establish a management group for the web site and its content.

§ Consider a future transition to an ‘eServices’ (electronic transactions) site or portal enabling electronic transactions between Council and Council’s customers and suppliers.

3.2.4 Records Management (Trim)

Councils Electronic Document Management System, Trim Context, has been in operation for 3 years. This system provides for the electronic storage, retrieval and tracking of documents and images.

Issues:

§ Document workflows to be scoped and developed.

§ Acceptance and commitment by staff.

Strategies / Projects:

§ Develop business rules for workflows.

§ Implement staff educational and training programme to increase awareness of benefits of system.

3.2.5 Business Paper Management (InfoCouncil)

Infocouncil was implemented at Council 18 months ago. It is a software package for producing and managing electronic business papers for Council. The software covers all the business processes involved in reporting up to Council and then recording decisions and putting them into action. It incorporates the latest internet and office technologies.

Issues:

§ There are no known current issues with this system.

3.2.6 Customer Requests (Merit)

Merit was implemented Dec 2008. The system enables the recording and tracking of customer service requests.

Issues:

§ System is not fully implemented throughout organisation.

Strategies / Projects:

§ Additional rollout and training throughout organisation.

§ Additional scoping and configuration of software as required.

3.2.7 Office Automation (Microsoft Office)

Microsoft office is the desktop application environment adopted by NSC.

Issues:

§ Maintaining relative version currency and compatibility. (Current version is 2003).

Strategies / Projects:

§ Upgrade version.

3.2.8 Online DA Tracking (Masterview)

Masterview was implemented 3 years ago to provide online tracking for planning and development applications.

Issues:

§ There are no known current issues.

3.2.9 Other and External Applications

A range of other and external applications are in use by Council and are generally very position specific and will not be covered in detail in this plan.

3.3 IT Infrastructure

The NSC IT infrastructure is relatively up to date with regular investments in the upgrading of servers and PCs however additional infrastructure will be required for the new corporate application software. Disaster recovery infrastructure is also required.

Issues:

§ Additional servers will be required for new application software

§ Disaster recovery hardware inadequate and not located satisfactorily

Strategies / Projects:

§ Implement suitable hardware for new application software.

§ Identify satisfactory location for housing disaster recovery hardware.

3.3.1 Servers and Storage

The NSC IT data storage infrastructure is server based and is located at the Administration Centre.

Issues:

§ Data back up not efficient.

Strategies / Projects:

§ Monitor storage holding over next 12-18 months and anticipate future requirements

§ In conjunction with the review of the IT Disaster Recovery Plan develop a new model for data protection

3.3.2 Data communications (Switches, routers, firewalls)

The data communications environment is 3Com and Cisco environment using 10/100/1GB switches. ISA server provides the firewall.

Issues:

§ The overall performance and security of the data network needs to be benchmarked and tested

§ Long term solutions need to be found for problematic network areas such as the capacity of the link to the Works Depot and other potential remote sites.

Strategies / Projects:

§ Identify third parties to test existing data network for performance and security vulnerabilities.

§ Develop realistic and affordable solutions for improving performance to remote sites.

3.4. IT Security

Council does not have an IT Security policy. Key elements of this policy should include:

§ Email Usage Procedure

§ Internet Usage

§ Copyright and Software Licensing

§ System Access

§ Physical Computer Security

§ Information Security

Issues:

§ Security Policies need to be created and reviewed regularly.

§ The changing nature of technology and the impact of the Internet including viruses, trojans, spyware and other intrusive and potentially dangerous software relies on a strong but practical security policy that is both accepted and followed.

Strategies / Projects:

§ Develop security policies. Revise yearly.

§ Develop and maintain an active staff awareness programme on IT security matters.

§ Update policies to reflect changes in technology.

3.5 IT Disaster Recovery Plans/Business Continuity

The last significant work done on the IT Disaster Recovery plan was in 2005. The document outlines both IT Disaster Recovery strategy as well as IT business continuity initiatives.

Issues:

§ The plan is not current and would not provide for continuity of service in case of a disaster.

§ The plan has not been tested.

§ Disaster recovery hardware not available.

Strategies:

§ Review and update the existing IT Disaster Plan including recovery procedures

§ Develop and implement a Disaster Recovery Test plan and timetable

3.6 Collaborative Issues

The Mid North Coast Strategic Alliance Group have worked together for many years on a range of matters including purchasing incentives, software reviews and the sharing of intellectual information.

3.7 NSC Strategic Initiatives

At a very simple level the overall IT Strategy is to provide a robust and reliable infrastructure that meets the organisations needs.

Opportunities for collaboration with other Local Government Authorities are monitored through active participation in the Mid North Coast Strategic Alliance Group.

Council is also a member of LOGITA (Local Government Information Technology Alliance) which was formed in 2007 to address the future of 2000plus. It comprises the following member Councils, Bega, Bathurst, Ballina, Nambucca, Gunnedah and Upper Hunter.

4. Information Technology Staff

Information Technology staff are focussed on providing 3 basic services:

§ Provision of a reliable and robust IT infrastructure

§ Provision of a systems support service

§ IT advisory service (strategic and operational)

Issues:

§ No service level agreement for user support.

§ Inadequate staffing

Strategies / Projects:

§ Define and develop Service Level Agreements.

§ Consider trainee position

5. Major Strategic Initiatives

The following are 7 key initiatives that are expected to have a positive impact on the way Nambucca Shire Council operates and does its business. These initiatives range from replacement of its core business application to the provision of a secure method for remotely accessing its network.

Each initiative has indicative costs for establishment and recurrent funding as well as proposed implementation timeframes.

5.1 Replacement of Corporate Information System (Fujitsu 2000plus)

Objective

To ensure that Council continues to have a current, cost effective and responsive information technology systems and to provide a range on new self service initiatives to Customers it has been decided to replace its existing core corporate software system.

This software implementation will be the most significant technology change this Council has seen in over 2 decades.

Expected Costs

Indicative costs are summarised below:

2009/10	20010/11	2011/12
250,000	100,000	100,000

5.2 Disaster recovery infrastructure

NSC does not have adequate disaster recovery infrastructure and would be unable to provide continuity of service in the case of a disaster.

Objective

To identify a suitable location to house the required hardware and ensure that appropriate communication infrastructure is place to provide adequate bandwidth.

Expected Costs

Indicative costs are summarised below:

2009/10	20010/11	2011/12
15,000	5,000	nil

5.3 Asset Management (Software Implementation)

NSC does not have a consistent or corporate approach to managing assets. Over the years Council has considered a number of asset management systems, however to date no system has been selected.

Issues:

§ Council requires an asset management system

Strategies / Projects:

§ Determine the features required of an asset management system, including reporting, integration and support.

§ Review and consider implementation of Asset management modules included for consideration in the tender process.

Expected Costs

Indicative costs are summarised below:

2009/10	20010/11	2011/12
nil	100,000	nil

5.4 Council Intranet Implementation

NSC has previously considered intranet functionality for provide a central access point for corporate documentation. This would allow for better management of corporate documents including Templates, Policies and Procedures, Induction and Training Manuals, newsletters, publications etc.

Issues:

§ Maintaining the accuracy and quality of content by staff

Strategies / Projects:

§ Investigate new technologies to support an intranet

§ Establish a management group for the intranet site and its content.

Expected Costs

Indicative costs are summarised below:

2009/10	20010/11	2011/12
5,000	2,000	2,000

5.5 Access, Anywhere, Anytime

Access to the information held within Council’s network is currently restricted to devices directly attached to Council’s network (i.e. a PC in an office. For staff off site or in vehicles there is currently no mechanism to access Council’s data network. With the advent of PDAs, smart phones and the like that are capable of running software and accessing the internet, the opportunity to develop a secure and productive mechanism to permit staff Access to Council information from Anywhere at Anytime has arrived.

Expected Costs

Indicative costs are summarised below:

2009/10	20010/11	2011/12
5,000	20,000	5,00

5.6 Helpdesk

NSC does not document help desk requests making it difficult to determine the amount of support being provided. It is recommended that a formal help desk system and associated policies and procedures be developed and implemented.

Expected Costs

Indicative costs are summarised below:

2009/10	20010/11	2011/12
2,000	nil	nil

5.7 Information Systems Directory & Governance

The acquisition of new business information systems or changes to such systems (such as upgrades) is currently not overseen by one group within Council. The impact of such decisions (to buy new, upgrade or replace) can be significant as many systems have multiple Business Unit stakeholders. The purpose of this initiative is:

1) Establish a register of key business applications used by NSC that defines:

§ The ‘owner’ of the system

§ The operational representative

§ The relationships that the system has to other information systems

§ Other key stakeholders in that system

§ Funding arrangements

§ Support arrangements

§ Responsibilities of ownership

2) Establish a forum for:

§ Canvassing future Information Systems requirements

§ Introducing new or up and coming technologies

§ Reviewing IS Business Case Proposals

§ Making decisions about Information Systems consistent with the organisations Strategic and Management Plans.

§ Signing off on the IS Strategic Plan and its updates

§ Authorising IS related policy

Expected Costs

Indicative costs are summarised below:

2009/10	20010/11	2011/12
nil	nil	nil

5.8 Summary

The following summary shows the current conservative start and completion dates for the main strategic initiatives. A number of new ones are expected to be spawned from the Access Anywhere, Anytime and Customer Self Service projects.

Task Name	Duration	Start	Finish
5.1 Replacement of Corporate Information System (Fujitsu 2000plus)	12 Months	Jun 2009	Jun 2010
5.2 Disaster recovery infrastructure	3 Months	Aug 2009	Nov 2009
5.3 Asset Management (Software Implementation)	12 Months	Jan 2011	Dec 2011
5.4 Council Intranet Implementation	2 Months	Oct 2009	Dec 2009
5.5 Access, Anywhere, Anytime	3 Years	Oct 2009	Dec 2012
5.6 Helpdesk	12 Months	Jul 2009	Jun 2010
5.7 Information Systems Directory & Governance	2 Years	Jul 2009	Jun 2011

6. Financial Analysis

6.1 Summary of Forecast IT Expenditure

The following table summarizes current and proposed expenditure.

Task Name	2009/10	20010/11	2011/12
5.1 Replacement of Corporate Information System (Fujitsu 2000plus)	250,000	100,000	100,000
5.2 Disaster recovery infrastructure	15,000	5,000	nil
5.3 Asset Management (Software Implementation)	nil	100,000	nil
5.4 Council Intranet Implementation	5,000	2,000	2,000
5.5 Access, Anywhere, Anytime	5,000	20,000	5,00
5.6 Helpdesk	2,000	nil	nil
5.7 Information Systems Directory & Governance	nil	nil	nil

7. IT Governance & Management

7.1 Roles & responsibilities

The governance of Information Systems at Nambucca Shire Council needs reviewing and is expected to be addressed in Strategic Initiative 5.7.

7.2 Managing the Plan

The success of this plan will be reported on with annual updates. These updates will reference the following:

§ Annual assessment of existing IT&T infrastructure, systems development and current commitments including expenditure

§ Projects impacting on IT resources

§ Changes to basic Business Services

§ Progress of Strategic Initiatives

§ Disaster recovery Status of IT infrastructure

8. Summary of Strategies and Projects (not identifed as Major Strategic Initiatives Section 5)

ID	Initiative	Page
1	Evaluate tenders and select suitable replacement product.	7
2	Adequate financial funding is built into the IS recurrent budget for annual costs.	7
3	Significant benefits can be achieved by implementing the “the replacement product” .	7
4	NSC to implement the “the replacement product” system in a timely manner ensuring all staff are adequately trained (see Major Strategic Initiative 5.1).	7
5	Staged implementation of eservices modules will achieve significant efficiencies and benefits in Council’s business with the ability to interact with customers	7
6	Commence publication of maps on the Council’s website.	7
7	A recent audit of user requirements was undertaken and these requirements have been prioritised and scheduled for completion.	7
8	Training of staff in the development of their own content for publication on Council’s website	8
9	Establish a management group for the web site and its content.	8
10	Consider a future transition to an ‘eServices’ (electronic transactions) site or portal enabling electronic transactions between Council and Council’s customers and suppliers.	8
11	Develop business rules for workflows.	8
12	Implement staff educational and training programme to increase awareness of benefits of system.	8
13	Additional rollout and training throughout organisation.	9
14	Additional scoping and configuration of software as required.	9
15	Upgrade version.	9
16	Implement suitable hardware for new application software.	10
17	Identify satisfactory location for housing disaster recovery hardware.	10
18	Monitor storage holding over next 12-18 months and anticipate future requirements	10
19	In conjunction with the review of the IT Disaster Recovery Plan develop a new model for data protection	10
20	Identify third parties to test existing data network for performance and security vulnerabilities.	11
21	Develop realistic and affordable solutions for improving performance to remote sites.	11
22	Develop security policies. Revise yearly.	11
23	Develop and maintain an active staff awareness programme on IT security matters.	11
24	Update policies to reflect changes in technology.	11
25	Review and update the existing IT Disaster Plan including recovery procedures	12
26	Develop and implement a Disaster Recovery Test plan and timetable	12
27	Define and develop Service Level Agreements	12
28	Consider trainee position	12

Ordinary Council Meeting

2 April 2009

General Manager's Report

ITEM 8.6 SF706 020409 Grant Application Status Report - 5 March 2009

AUTHOR/ENQUIRIES: Jenny Chance, Grants Officer

Summary:

At Council’s meeting on 7 December 2006 it was resolved that there be a quarterly return submitted to Council on grant programs. The following table provides a report on grant programs which Council has been made aware of; their closing date; consultation with community groups; their current status and eventual determination by the funding body.

Recommendation:

That the list of grant programs and their status to 5 March 2009 be received.

TABLE 1

SUBMITTED APPLICATIONS
	Grant Program	Action	Grant Details and Status
1	~~New Federal Environmental Programme - Still to be announced~~ ~~Funding basis~~~~: Fully Funded~~ ~~Opens: Letter of support provided~~ ~~Closed: NA~~ ~~Outcome: Successful funding announcement date yet to be advised~~ ~~Grant 1: $TBA~~ ~~Council~~ ~~contribution: $0.00~~	GM ~~DES~~ ~~DEP~~	The Area Consultative Committee (ACC) is proposing to take a lead role in putting forward an expression of interest for a major environmental project for Federal funding based on a “Clean Waters Model” implemented for Wallis Lakes. The ACC is seeking Federal Government support for a $176m program over four years for each of the 8 Mid North Coast Councils plus Port Stephens, Clarence Valley and the Shoalhaven. There is no matching funding required other than Council’s existing commitment to its environmental levy works program. A letter of support for the initiative has been provided to the ACC.
2	NSW Environmental Trust Round 3 – Urban Sustainability Program Funding basis: Fully Funded Opens: Joint application submitted Closed: 20 June 2008 Outcome: Successful Grant 1: $1,998,820 between Nambucca, Bellingen and Coffs Harbour Council contribution: $0.00	DEP	The Urban Sustainability Program aims to facilitate projects of significant environmental benefit to NSW, delivered by local government organisations in partnership with other government agencies, local businesses, community organisations and householders. Through these projects, the Program also aims to improve the capacity of communities and organisations to protect, restore and enhance the sustainability of our urban environment Council previously resolved to submit both a joint application with Bellingen and Coffs Harbour Councils and an individual application. Amended criteria excluded individual applications. Joint application lodged.

Northern Rivers CMA

River Reach Program - Implementation

Funding basis: Fully Funded

Opens: Application submitted

Closed: 29 August 2008

Outcome: Successful funding announcement date yet to be advised

Grant 1: $35,000 - $45,000

Council contribution: $5,000

River Reach Program - Plan Development

Funding basis: Fully Funded

Opens: Joint application submitted

Closed 25 August 2008

Outcome: Successful

Grant 2: $25,500

Council contribution: $0.00

Development and Implementation of local Government local scale coastline NRM plans

Funding basis: Fully Funded up to $80,000 (total funding available)

Opens: Joint application submitted

Closed: 25 August 2008

Outcome: Unsuccessful

Grant 3: $26,000

Council contribution: $8,000.00

DEP

The River Reach Program is a Northern Rivers Catchment Management Authority (NRCMA) grant scheme funded by the Australian Government through Caring for Our Country. It aims to assist groups of landholders undertake rehabilitation projects along their rivers.

1) Application submitted for Stage 2 Lower Nambucca River, River Bank stabilization, rubbish and weed eradication. (Nursery Rd/Pacific Hwy north for approx 2 kms) Funding application proposal from the Nyambaga Green Team. Council contribution of $5000 maximum to provide some machinery to collect and remove rubbish, vegetation; prepare traffic management plan for traffic control on Pacific Highway. Council’s $5,000 (max) in-kind contribution from the Environmental Levy.

2) Application submitted for water monitoring and testing of the river and its estuaries within the oyster zone as well as Gumma, Tilly Willy and Newee Creek.

Development and Implementation of local Government local scale coastline NRM plans aims to support Local Government in undertaking on-ground works to enhance High Conservation Value ecosystems along areas of coastline not encompassed within a completed Coastline Management Plan (Byron, Ballina, Richmond Valley, Bellingen, Nambucca and Kempsey LGAs).

3) Funding to provide consistent standardised beach access signage across the Shires coastal foreshore accesses utilising current best practice signage systems for aquatic and recreational use. Joint application with DECC with DECC contributing $3,000 to the project.

NSW Maritime – Maritime Infrastructure Program

Funding basis: 1:1 basis

Opens: Application Submitted

Closed: 22 August 2008

Outcome: Both Successful

Grant 1:$22,500

Council contribution: $22,500

Grant 2:$30,720

Council contribution: $15,000 (Environment Levy)and the remainder in-kind contributions

GO/

MTS

The Maritime Infrastructure Program (MIP) provides up to $2M annually to local government and community organisations for waterways infrastructure projects that benefit the recreational boating community across NSW, including the provision of public wharves/jetties, boat ramps, public sewage pump out facilities and public moorings.

Two applications were submitted.

1) Pontoon and Gangway at Tourist Office Finger Wharf – Nambucca Heads.

2) Pontoon and Gangway at Lions Park, Ferry Street – Macksville. The application was submitted with the assistance of the Nambucca River Users Group.

NSW Blackspot Program

Funding basis: Fully Funded

Opens: Application Submitted

Closed: 22 August 2008

Outcome: Successful applications announcement date yet to be advised

Grant: $34,000

Council contribution: $0.00

GO/ MTS

RTA is inviting all Councils to identify and nominate new conforming projects for the 2009-2010 programme. Construction costs must be greater than $10,000 for rural Councils.

Council has been informed that since the Blackspot funding panel meeting the Australian Government has made an announcement (12th December) that the Federal Black Spot Program will receive an additional $60 million in 2008-09 as part of the Australian Government’s $4.7 billion Nation Building Package, it is anticipated that NSW will gain an additional $19.199 million on top of next Financial Years Federal Blackspot Allocation of $19.199million. The extra $19.199million is provided on a condition that the projects will be completed by 31 December 2009 and provided the Federal Blackspot Criteria is met.

An application was completed to gain funding for pedestrian refuge at Bowra Street (intersection of Wellington Drive, Woods Lane, Back Street, Fraser Street), Nambucca Heads

Department of Community Services (NSW) – Area Assistance Scheme

Funding basis: Fully Funded up to $110,000

Opens: Applications Submitted

Closed: 10 October 2008

Outcome: Successful applications to be announced mid 2009

Grant 1:$45,000

Council contribution: $3,200 (in-kind)

Grant 2:$110,000

Council contribution: $0.00

Grant 3:$30,700

Council contribution: $0.00

Grant 4:$24,761

Council contribution: $0.00

The Area Assistance Scheme (AAS) is a regional community development program run by the Communities Division, NSW Department of Community Services.

The AAS provides grants to local Councils and non-government not-for-profit organisations for projects that improve community well being and how communities function. The AAS works within a whole-of-government framework to deliver its outcomes. In 2008/09 the AAS will funds project between $10 000 and $110 000.

Council submitted or assisted in the following applications:

1) Argents Hill Hall – Improvements to hall including general maintenance and structural works.

2) Marine Rescue Building – Funding towards the construction of a new building for the Nambucca River Marine Rescue services to store 2 boats, other equipment and provide training and use of a meeting room.

3) Warrell Creek Hall – Improvements to hall including insulating part of the building and adding exhaust fans, new floor coverings in kitchen, refurbishing of stage area, fencing and boundary restoration works, new footpath, water tank, installation of alarm device for the septic overflow tank, new bbq, shade area and picnic tables.

4) Unkya Reserve – Improvements including new switchboard, safety circuit breakers, power points and lights to resolve safety and power overloading issues, replacement of old canteen roof and guttering, water tank and plumbing equipment, tiling in canteen and toilet block.

Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs – Volunteers Grants Program

Funding basis: Fully Funded up to $5,000

Opens: Applications Submitted

Closed: 19 October 2008

Outcome: Applications 1, 2 and 3 Successful, Application 4 Unsuccessful

Grant 1:$3,030

Council contribution: $0.00

Grant 2:$4,950

Council contribution: $0.00

Grant 3:$ 3,199

Council contribution: $0.00

Grant 4:$ 4,990

Council contribution: $0.00

Eligible organisations can apply for grant funding ranging from a minimum of $1,000 up to a maximum of $5,000. An organisation applying for a grant under the Volunteer Grants Program 2008 must be an Australian, not-for-profit organisation that is a legal entity, engaging volunteers, whose work directly benefits Australian communities.

Council assisted with four applications:

1) Nambucca District Little Athletics – Funding to purchase computer, camera and filing cabinets.

2) Nambucca Heads Junior Rugby League Football Club – Funding to purchase a coffee maker and a step ladder.

3) Nambucca Heads Touch Football – Funding to purchase a computer and a photocopier

4) E J Biffin Playing Fields - Funding to purchase a ride-on-mower

NSW Sport and Recreation – Capital Assistance Program

Funding basis: 1:1 basis

Opens: Application Submitted

Closed: 14 November 2008

Outcome: Successful applications to be announced Mid 2009

Grant 1:$8,600

Council contribution: $0.00

Grant 2:$21,000

Council contribution: $0.00

Grant 3:$30,000

Council contribution: $0.00

Grant 4:$14,341

Council contribution: $0.00

GO/ MBS

NSW Sport and Recreation (the Agency) offers the Capital Assistance Program for the development of local level facilities with the maximum grant available being $30,000.

Eligible applicants are those from local government authorities and incorporated not-for-profit organisations wishing to develop facilities that will increase participation in sport, recreation and physical activity. Local government authorities must submit applications on behalf of their committees e.g. Section 355 committees.

Council assisted with four applications:

1) Nambucca Tennis Club – Lighting Upgrade

2) Macksville Tennis Club – Court surface upgrade

3) Nambucca Valley Bridge Club – Funding towards new club house.

4) Scotts Head Bowling and Recreation Club – Installation of lights at bowling green.

Department of Local Government – Playground Upgrades

Funding basis: Fully Funded up to $20,000

Opens: Application Submitted

Closed: 21 November 2008

Outcome: Successful applications announcement date yet to be advised

Grant: $20,000.00

Council contribution: $0.00

GO/ MBS

A total of $2 million has been made available over two years. Round 1 grants for 2008/09 have been allocated and councils are now invited to apply for Round 2 grants for 2009/10.

The grants will only be available for local government and must be used to either provide new playground facilities and/or equipment or upgrade existing playground facilities and/or equipment. Councils must utilise grants received for playground projects on land which is council-owned or managed. Funded playground projects must be free to use and publicly accessible. Projects will be funded in 2009/10 to a maximum of $20,000.

All councils in NSW are eligible and encouraged to apply for funding under the program. There is a limit of one project application per council. Councils which were successful in receiving a grant under Round 1 of the Playground Equipment Upgrade may also submit an application under Round 2.

An application was submitted to install border and softfall to Donnelly Welsh Park and Taylors Arm Sports Reserve.

NSW Attorney General’s Department – NSW Crime Prevention Grant

Funding basis: Fully Funded up to $50,000

Opens: Application Submitted

Closed: 12 December 2008

Outcome: Successful

Grant 1:$50,000 amount of funding increased to $54,527

Council contribution: $9,190 (including some in-kind)

GO/ MCC

NSW Crime Prevention Project Grants are provided by the CPD to support the implementation of strategies designed to reduce crime. The primary objective of the NSW Crime Prevention Grants Program is to achieve the crime reduction goals of the NSW State Plan, namely to reduce violent crime and property crime. Eligible councils are currently invited to apply for up to $50 000 per annum each year for the duration of their plan’s endorsement.

An application was submitted to implement the successful STRAW’s project implemented in Albury Wondonga. The objective of the program is to assist in making licensed premises safer for women and reducing violent crimes against them.

NSW Department of Planning – NSW Coastline Cycleway Grants Program

Funding basis: 1:1

Opens: Application Submitted

Closed: 19 December 2008

Outcome: Successful applications announcement date yet to be advised

Grant 1:$128,250

Council contribution: $128,250

GO/ MTS

This program provides grants to non-metropolitan coastal councils to improve cycling facilities by developing and implementing the NSW Coastline Cycleway route. Councils can apply for dollar-for-dollar grants for projects on the defined NSW Coastline Cycleway route.

Application submitted for shared pedestrian/cycleway along Pacific Highway, Nambucca Heads

Local Adaptation Pathway Program Grant – Round 2 - Expression of Interest

Funding basis: Fully Funded

Opens: Application Submitted

Closed: 25 February 2009

Outcome: Successful applications announcement date yet to be advised

Grant: $140,000

Council contribution: $0.00

GO/ ECO/

Through the Local Adaptation Pathways Program, the Australian Government is providing funding to help councils undertake climate change risk assessments and develop action plans to prepare for the likely local impacts of climate change.

Worth up to $500,000, Round 2 of the Local Adaptation Pathways Program seeks to complement and build on the work from Round 1. While all applications will be considered, this round of funding seeks to improve participation from local governments in Outer Regional, Remote and Very Remote regions. Consortia of councils are also encouraged to apply.

For Round 2, the Program will provide local governments with grants of up to

· $75,000 (GST exclusive) for a single council

· $120,000 (GST exclusive) for two (2) Councils

· $140,000 (GST exclusive) for three (3) or more councils.

The funding will help councils integrate climate change risk assessment into their broader decision-making processes.

A joint application has been submitted from Nambucca Shire Council, Kempsey Shire Council and Bellingen Shire Council. Further information has been submitted upon request of the Department.

National Emergency Volunteer Support Fund – Emergency Management Australia (EMA), the Division within the Attorney-General's Department.

Funding basis: Fully Funded

Opens: Application Submitted

Closing: 6 March 2009

Outcome: Successful applications announcement date yet to be advised

Grant: $150,000

Council contribution: $0.00

The National Emergency Volunteer Support Fund focuses on emergency management volunteers in recognition of their needs and the significant front line role they play in reducing vulnerability and enhancing community safety.

To ensure ongoing protection of communities it is critical that all volunteer agencies maintain their current levels of staffing and training.

The Australian Government is offering funding in 2009/10 through the National Emergency Volunteer Support Fund for projects which specifically address the recruitment, retention and training of volunteers.

Application submitted by Nambucca River Volunteer Marine Rescue Squad.

Country Halls Renewal Fund

Funding basis: 2:1

Opens: Currently Open

Closing: Always Open

Outcome:

Grant 1: $TBA

Council contribution: $TBA

Grant 2: $12,754.13

Council contribution: $6,377.07

Grant 3:: $17,052.00

Council contribution: $4,556.00

$2.5 million over 5 years towards renewing country halls. The fund will be delivered by the Office of Rural Affairs.

Applications are currently being prepared for:

1) Argents Hill Hall – Repairs

2) Nambucca Entertainment Centre – External painting

3) Taylors Arm Hall – Kitchen, flooring and windows

Notice of the program has been distributed to the Committees of Management for the halls

Norman Wettenhall Foundation

Funding basis: Fully Funded up to $10,000

Opens: Application Submitted

Closing: 31 March 2009

Outcome: Successful applications announcement date yet to be advised

Grant 1: $10,000

Council contribution: $0.00

Support is given to projects that enhance or maintain the vitality and diversity of the Australian natural living environment.

The objectives of the Foundation are:

· to build capacity in local communities to effect long-term beneficial change in the natural environment

· to support and encourage research into, and monitoring of, all aspects of Australia's natural environment

· to support education relating to our natural environment

· Principles

Wherever possible, funded projects will:

· be innovative and serve as a model for future projects

· show collaboration with other groups, particularly community groups

· result in long term improvement of the natural environment

· indicate clearly, and thoughtfully, how advice of the project's outcomes will be shared

Pre-approval to lodge a submission has been received for funding towards seating and signage for the Crosswinds Wetlands Reserve. An application has been submitted.

The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government – Indigenous Road Safety Grants

Funding basis: Fully funded up to $30,000

Opens: Application Submitted

Closing: 27 March 2009

Outcome:

Grant: $30,000

Council contribution: $20,000

The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government is now inviting applications for Indigenous Road Safety Grants for 2009-2010. One or more grants up to a total of $30,000 will be awarded to applicants for projects that will help improve road safety for Indigenous people.

Application forms and detailed information about the grants are available from the Department’s website

Objectives

The grant is offered as a means to:

· encourage innovative and worthwhile initiatives to help reduce road trauma affecting Indigenous people; and

· increase the range of initiatives available to address road safety for Indigenous people.

An application has been prepared to fund engineering works, informative signage at Bellwood and a children's safety booklet.

Department of Environment and Climate Change – NSW Climate Change Fund – Public Facilities Program

Funding basis: Fully funded

Opens: Application prepared

Closing: 30 April 2009

Outcome: TBA

Grant:$TBA

Council contribution:$TBA

$30m for water and energy saving projects in facilities open to the public eg schools, community buildings, sporting facilities, museums and art galleries.

Eligibility criteria

Applications are open to providers of non-profit public or educational facilities for projects which:

§ publicly demonstrate how water and/or energy savings can work

§ stimulate investment in innovative ways to save, harvest and recycle water and/or reduce overall energy consumption (and related greenhouse emissions) and/or peak electricity demand.

Activities which are eligible for funding under the Public Facilities Program include, but are not limited to:

§ education activities which have the potential to increase the adoption of efficient technologies and practices

§ projects which improve the efficiency of buildings and appliances

§ projects which reduce peak electricity demand

§ projects which reduce the demand for electricity or water supplied from electricity or water supply networks, e.g. cogeneration, fuel switching, water recycling, stormwater harvesting.

An application is currently being prepared to look at the possibility of replacing the lighting in the Council administration building and the use of wind turbines to generate power to feed back to the grid for use as offsets.

Australian Government - Caring for our Country funding

Funding basis: Fully funded

Opens: Application submitted

Closing: 6 March 2009

Outcome: TBA

Grant: $100,000

Council contribution: $14,000

Caring for our Country funding

The Australian Government is now calling for investment proposals for projects that will meet the targets outlined in the Caring for our Country business plan 2009-10. Caring for our Country is an Australian Government initiative that seeks to achieve an environment that is healthy, better protected, well managed and resilient, and provides essential ecosystem services in a changing climate.

The Australian Government is seeking investment proposals for landscape-scale projects that achieve one or more targets in specific geographic locations or key assets.

Projects can be large, medium or small:

· large-scale projects in the order of $20 million over four years

· medium-scale projects of up to $3 million per annum (a value of $2-3 million would be expected for most medium-scale projects)

· small-scale projects of between $20,000 and $100,000 per annum.

Council is working together with Landcare to submit an application that includes weed removal, field days, workshops and other on ground works and will involve a small devolved grant scheme for land owners and community groups.

Local Infrastructure Support Fund - Building the Country Package – Department of State and Regional Development – Expression of Interest

Funding basis: TBA

Opens: Application submitted

Closing: 20 March 2009

Outcome: TBA

Grant: $100,000

Council contribution: $TBA

$52 million over 5 years supporting infrastructure projects that are directly linked to economic development opportunities. The fund will be delivered by the Department of State and Regional Development.

Application submitted for infrastructure works at Macksville Salesyards.

TABLE 2

FUNDING PROGRAMS RECENTLY OPENED OR SOON TO BE RELEASED — FOR INFORMATION
	Grant Program	Action	Status
1	Building the Country Package Funding basis: Opens: Currently Open Closing: Various Outcome: Grant:$ Council contribution:$		Building the Country Package announced by the Rees Government. The funding programs are designed to support people who live and work in country areas. Building the Country Package programs are: Country Libraries Fund - $9 million over 5 years to help country libraries buy new books and digital media, and pay for building works. The fund will be delivered by the Department of Arts, Sport and Recreation. Water Adjustment Innovation Fund - $9 million over 5 years to help communities affected by water reforms invest in innovative water saving technologies. The fund will be delivered by the Department of State and Regional Development. – Nambucca Shire Council is not eligible. Small Communities Awareness Fund - $450,000 over 5 years to help smaller and more isolated communities develop their own websites to promote what they can offer as a business and tourism destination. The fund will be delivered by the Office of Rural Affairs. Small Chamber of Commerce Fund - $450,000 over 5 years to help small town chambers of commerce with promotional work, web sites, tourism promotions, small main street programs and in conducting business seminars in country towns. The fund will be delivered by the Department of State and Regional Development.
2	Country Passenger Transport Infrastructure Grants Scheme (CPTIGS) – Ministry of Transport Funding basis: Fully Funded Opens: Currently Open Closing: 25 June 09 Outcome: Grant:$ Council contribution:$