Federation Council has released its quarterly progress update on the implementation of recommendations from the University of Newcastle's Independent Review into the Council's financial sustainability, showing significant achievements as at June 30, 2025.
The Independent Review, led by Professor Joseph Drew, provided 77 recommendations to Council. Of these, Council adopted 65 in full and 2 in part in March and April 2024.
As of June 30, 2025, 16 of the adopted recommendations have been fully implemented, an increase from 12 in March 2025. A total of 42 recommendations are currently 'In progress', and only 9 are yet 'To be progressed'.
Federation Council Mayor, Cr Cheryl Cook praised the dedication of staff and the positive direction of the Council's reform agenda.
"We are pleased to report that we are making substantial and measurable progress on the recommendations of the Independent Review," Mayor Cook said.
"The hard work across all tiers of Council has resulted in 16 recommendations being fully completed, and 42 more well underway. This is a clear demonstration that we are serious about securing a financially sustainable future for the Federation Council area."
Key progress highlights include:
Financial Sustainability: The Special Rate Variation (SRV) was approved in full and made permanent. Seven of the ten SRV-related recommendations are now complete, including the rigorous assessment of debt capacity, capacity to pay, and the finalisation of the Long Term Financial Plan (LTFP).
Asset Management and Maintenance: Additional funds from the SRV have been allocated to road renewal (reseals), building maintenance, and financial sustainability. Initial data from the road condition assessment has been received and is being used to prioritise road renewal projects.
Efficiency: The recommendation to divest the Ball Park Caravan Park business has progressed, with Council resolving to seek expressions of interest for a long-term lease (21-30 years) to manage and redevelop the Park, aiming to have it in place by July 1, 2026. The review into the Corowa Aerodrome is also scheduled to be finalised when the Service Review is adopted.
Organisational Development: An internal Emerging Leaders Program has continued through 2025 to develop the skills of future leaders. KPIs have been drafted around adherence to budgets.
Mayor Cook emphasised the commitment to core services.
"Our focus remains firmly on mandatory activities, followed by the maintenance and renewal of existing assets, as clearly articulated in our communications and adopted 2025/26 Annual Budget," she said.
"The approval of the SRV provides greater certainty, and we are working diligently to ensure every ratepayer dollar counts."
The report also noted that implementation of the recommendations has been managed within existing resources and staff time, with the only exception being the engagement of an expert to assist with the SRV application.
"We recognise that implementing these changes while maintaining day-to-day operations is a significant task, and I want to acknowledge the tireless efforts of our staff," Mayor Cook said.
"We will continue to provide the community with quarterly updates to ensure transparency on this crucial journey, which aligns with our goal for civic leadership that is strong, consultative, and responsive to community needs."
The full progress report on the Independent Review recommendations as at 30 June 2025 were presented at the Ordinary Council Meeting on September 30.
