Camden Council has welcomed the Committee for Sydney's latest budget submission, supporting its call for greater investment in the social infrastructure needed to support Sydney's growing communities.
The report highlights the importance of delivering community infrastructure alongside housing growth, recognising the role local government plays in providing many of the facilities and services that help communities thrive.
As one of Australia's fastest-growing local government areas, Camden continues to experience significant pressure on social infrastructure. According to the Australian Urban Observatory, Camden has the second-lowest Social Infrastructure Index in Greater Sydney and the lowest Health Infrastructure Index.
Council's draft Social and Cultural Infrastructure Framework identifies the need for at least five new primary schools, five new high schools and an additional 395 hospital beds by 2046 to meet future demand.
Council's own wellbeing data also points to emerging challenges associated with rapid population growth, including declining rates of children who are developmentally on track and increasing pressure on health and community services.
In terms of health outcomes, Camden has 17.9 per cent more than the state average of obesity or overweight attributed hospitalisations. Dementia Australia has also estimated a 64 per cent increase in rates of dementia between 2025 and 2054 in Camden, which is even more concerning as Camden already sees a higher rate of hospitalisation due to dementia compared to the state average.
Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said the Committee for Sydney report reinforces what Camden has been advocating for.
"People need more than just a roof over their head - our residents need parks, libraries, community centres, schools, health services and places where they can connect with others and build a sense of belonging," she said.
"As one of Australia's fastest-growing local government areas, Camden knows firsthand that housing growth must be matched by investment in the infrastructure that supports people's health, wellbeing and quality of life.
"We welcome the Committee for Sydney's recognition of the important role local government plays in delivering these facilities and the need for funding models that adequately support growing communities."
Camden Council will continue advocating for the infrastructure funding required to ensure local families have access to the services and community facilities they need as the region grows.
For more information on Council's advocacy efforts, visit camden.nsw.gov.au/advocacy
