Council’s Snapshot Report on progress towards achieving ... · • Wheelers Hill: at Southern Reserve , Lum Reserve and Grantham Terrace playgrounds. • Clayton - Meade Reserve

Page 1

July 2014

Council’s Snapshot Report on

progress towards achieving our long term strategy

MONASH 2021 – A Thriving Community

Page 2

Introduction

In 2010 Council adopted a long term Strategy: Monash 2021 - A thriving community. It was developed after comprehensive community consultations about what our community values and their visions for Monash in 10 years time. Four areas of focus were identified:

1. A fair & healthy community

2. A planned and connected City.

3. An inclusive & safe community

4. A green & naturally rich City

The community’s priorities for Council’s attention were allocated to each area of focus. This is a Snapshot Report to our community, on Council’s progress towards achieving their priorities and their vision.

Page 3

1. A fair and healthy community

Picture to be selected here

Our community told us that a fair and healthy community is one:

• where older people are encouraged to lead healthy active lives,

• where older people are supported to age at home or in their community,

• that provides support, stability and facilities for families raising their children

• that recognises and embraces its diversity and its benefits

• that provides opportunities to people from all socio-economic backgrounds,

• with a large range of essential services close to home

Page 4

Council’s achievements & progress towards community priorities

1.1 Developing our reserves to encourage active living in Monash. Both active reserves (for a range of sports) and passive reserves (for walking and recreation).

Council has maintained its commitment to careful maintenance of its 332 hectares of reserves/sports fields (including our two public golf courses) and 244 hectares of passive open space within our City.

Continued provision of support and guidance to community ‘Friends Groups’ working to improve and care for Scotchman’s Creek, Valley Reserve and Damper Creek Reserves.

Adopted a new Playground and Playspace Strategy and a Physical Activity Plan for Monash. With new playground equipment installed at seven playgrounds across the City and playground improvements completed in: • Oakleigh, at five parks: WA Scammell Reserve, FE Hunt Reserve and Progress Park playgrounds;

and new “access for all abilities” playgrounds completed within Brickmakers Park and Warrawee Park, Oakleigh.

• Mount Waverley: at Damper Creek Reserve and a new “access for all abilities” playground at Federal Reserve. A successful “community get together” was held to open the new facilities here in early 2014 with 200 local residents attending.

• Wheelers Hill: at Southern Reserve, Lum Reserve and Grantham Terrace playgrounds.

• Clayton - Meade Reserve playground. • Ashwood – a new access for all abilities playspace in Holmesglen Reserve.

Supported the Active People, Active Parks program and key projects in our Physical Activity Plan for Monash, and also our Golf Strategy.

Pursued our Active Reserve Strategy: holding positive discussions with state and national sporting bodies on opportunities to develop facilities.

Gained increasing attendances by Monash residents in programs offered during Active Monash Month, every November.

In 2013, secured State funding to assist with a feasibility study for development of intergenerational active spaces at Valley Reserve, Mt.Waverley.

1.2 Supporting diversity of the Monash community through cultural development programs and events and

by supporting community groups to share their traditions with others.

Continued our commitment to an annual events program, which included celebration of NAIDOC Week, exhibitions at Monash Gallery of Art, community festivals, forums and neighbourhood events, concerts, community awards and ceremonies.

Showcased the strength of cultural diversity within our City by: • Organising the ‘Small, New and Emerging Communities Expo’ and hosting the City’s first-ever

Cultural Diversity Awards; • Supporting the Monash Interfaith Network, including facilitation of their photographic exhibition ‘A

Window into Your Faith’ project. • Appointing the City’s first multicultural community development Officer. • Publishing a multilingual directory of Council services.

Invested more than $2.4 million per annum in a Grants Program for our community groups and organisations. Clarifying the ‘guidelines’ in 2013 to ensure easier access to these grants.

Page 5

Council’s progress on creating a fair and healthy community

1.3 Working in closer partnership with health and community agencies on public health and creating healthy environments.

Prevented the spread of infectious disease by: • Conducting ongoing food safety inspections at local restaurants, cafes and eateries. • Investigating health risks, incidents and outbreaks, and ensuring prevention measures were

implemented. • Delivering free immunisations at schools and community venues.

Successfully delivered the following community health programs in partnership with others: • Little Steps – a sleep settling program - with Waverley Hospital. • Man Matters Program – with youth-focused services providers. • Heat wave plans were implemented during our summer periods • Breastfeeding Support Program & Drop-in Clinic, at Oakleigh – with Monash Medical Centre

Responded to growing concerns about harms resulting from problem gambling: • Research was conducted on the extent and impact of problem gambling in Monash and most

effective responses. This research revealed groups within our community most ‘at risk’ and a shortfall in support services.

• Extensively researched submissions were made to the VCGLR in order to fight a proposal for increased numbers of gaming machines within Clayton.

• Secured a $205,000 grant from the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation in 2014, to provide a suite of targeted interventions in Clayton, by end 2015.

Initiated a Program focused on Tobacco Sales to Minors, with 43 retail tobacco outlets visited early 2013 to ‘test’ for the selling of cigarettes to people aged under 18.

Council lead the expansion of smoke free environments across Monash, by adoption of new Local Law No.4.which requires no smoking within 10m of the entrance to a building on Council land/reserves or at events run or sponsored by Council.

Council has also prepared a discussion paper for Councillors, examining the options, legality and viability of Council moving to ban smoking in outdoor dining areas. This paper is an initial step, before committing to further steps, including consultation with our community about the broader impacts of such a decision.

1.4 Planning for refurbishment of facilities for the community.

Completed construction of the modern $6.4 million Batesford Community Hub, in Chadstone. This facility provides for a range of community health service providers including Council’s Youth and Family Services, MonashLink, the University of the Third Age, local neighbourhood houses, a local Tenants Group and VCAL students from Berengarra Secondary School.

Constructed major sports Pavillions at:

• Princes Highway Reserve Pavillion, Oakleigh • Central Reserve Northern Pavillion, Glen Waverley • Jack Edwards Reserve Junior Pavillion, Oakleigh

Constructed the $17.3 million ‘Euneva Project’ - providing a location in Glen Waverley for MonashLink – a Community Health service provider, as part of Council’s new multi-level car park planned for the future needs of Glen Waverley Activity Centre.

Page 6


Successfully completed improvements to a range of community facilities across our City, including: • Upgrades at 9 community centres or halls.

• In Mulgrave: improvements to Wellington Reserve Pavillion; new accessible ramp at Freeway Reserve archery and a sealed car Park at Freeway Reserve.

• In Oakleigh: refurbishment of the Pool at Oakleigh Recreation Centre (ORC). ORC was named Victoria’s Seasonal Facility of the Year, in 2011. New Court lighting for the Oakleigh Tennis Club.

• In Mt. Waverley: upgrades to sports lighting at Tally Ho Reserve Sports; cricket net redevelopment at Mount Waverley Reserve; Opening of the Mount Waverley Library’s new kitchen and upper level.

• In Ashwood at Holmesglen Reserve - sealed car park, driveway connection to Gardiners Creek Trail.

• In Wheelers Hill: redevelopment of Brandon Park Reserve; sports lighting upgrade at Lum Reserve; and court resurfacing at Lum Reserve Tennis Club.

• In Glen Waverley: sports lighting and a grounds upgrade at Brandon Park Reserve; Cricket net redevelopment at central Reserve.

• In Notting Hill: purchase of a new ‘flat pack’ building for the Notting Hill Neighbourhood House.

1.5 Providing services and facilities for children and their families, so children get the best start in life.

Continued to provide local Maternal & Child Health services and quality-accredited child care services: our Child Care Centre in Brine Street, Oakleigh and our Family Day Care Scheme for the City.

Continued to provide story-time sessions at all local libraries, which promote literacy in young children and social networking opportunities for parents, caregivers and their children. These now include story-times in Chinese, Italian and Greek for families from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

Continued to provide a Monash Young Mums Group and funding provided to Bestchance Child and Family Centre for their delivery of ‘supported playgroups’.

Our Maternal & Child Health service implemented the ‘Baby Makes 3’ program in partnership with Whitehorse Community Health.

Administered a central enrolment scheme, to support the enrolment of children into 32 kindergartens across Monash; and sponsored programs for early childhood field staff supporting local children’s services to provide ‘inclusive programs’ for young children with additional needs.

Supported local kindergartens to extend their 4 year old programs to 15 hrs per week.

Renovated Nara Kindergarten, Mt.Waverley.

Continued the Extended School Holiday Respite Program for school-aged children with a disability, through Council’s Home and Community Care (HACC) Service.

Council supported the transfer of its Vacation Care program to three locally-based providers. The preferred service providers were selected by the affected Primary School councils, ensuring local parents were involved in the decision and the changes.

Supported rollout of ‘PS4Kids’ – a program supporting children with mental health issues - in collaboration with Inner East Medicare Local and MonashLink Community Health.

Developed a new four-year Early Years Plan with input from local parents, children themselves, schools and child and family service providers; which has lead to the formation of a Monash Early Years Planning Reference Group with broad membership from local service providers.

Page 7


Completed the first stage of a comprehensive review of the refurbishment and renewal needs of all Council’s children’s services facilities.

Introduced a concession for ‘Learn to Swim’ programs at Council’s three aquatic centres.

1.6 Providing services and advocating for funding to help older people age with dignity at home.

Continued to deliver government-funded in-home and community care (HACC) services, for older people and people of all ages with a disability and their carers, including:

o Provision of around 70,000 ‘Delivered Meals’ each year to residents who are disabled or frail-aged.

o Devised and trialled the inclusion of Occupational Therapy to support residents maintain independence as a key part of the Monash suite of HACC services. Occupational Therapy has subsequently been adopted by the State as part of core funding for the Monash HACC program and even extended to other HACC programs in this region.

o Collaborated on Council’s aims for a more ACT!VE Monash by surveying and engaging users of our aquatics facilities who were aged 50yrs plus, residents with a disability and carers.

o Worked hard to improve access and support to the increasing numbers of residents with dementia, including their carers.

o Continued provision of Halcyon Day Centre Planned Activity Groups for people living with Dementia and young people with disabilities

o Trained our HACC Assessment Officers in providing responsive services to: indigenous Australian residents residents from specific ethnic groups people living with dementia residents who may be gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, intersex or queer (GLBTIQ).

o Developed new strategies to support older people, eligible for HACC services, at risk of homelessness.

o Delivered a Television Retune Assistance Program to 4,300 Monash residents identified as vulnerable and at risk of social isolation - in partnership with Commonwealth’s Retune Initiative.

Produced and distributed a monthly newsletter “Supporting Times” to those whom we know are caring for people who are aged or disabled within our City.

Promoted Council’s in-home and community care services to ethno-specific community groups by increasing our direct visits to these groups – presenting information and asking how their needs might best be met.

Coordinated the delivery of volunteer support to vulnerable residents - over 2,400 hours per annum.

1.7 Adapting our services to support the needs of people in Monash to take advantage of opportunities arising from the expanding group of recently retired, experienced, energetic residents.

Hosted popular Senior Citizens Forums every quarter, which include speakers and training on issues of interest to members e.g. Personal and Pedestrian safety; Conflict Resolution; Food Handling.

Each year, Council has delivered a successful Monash Seniors Festival.

Provided within Monash Libraries classes and workshops for seniors on using computers and new technologies.

Completed upgrades at Clayton Senior Citizens Centre and continued funding & support to all 9 Senior Citizens centres across the municipality.

Page 8


Funded The New Hope Foundation in 2014 for a 1-year trial of ‘Cafe Bazaar’, their innovative multicultural seniors group. In 2014 Council also developed a new category of community grant especially to encourage applications from the range of seniors groups that are active within Monash.

Established a Men’s Shed within Monash, at Bogong Reserve Glen Waverley, with the strong support of the Glen Waverley Rotary and Waverley Lion’s Clubs. This initiative gives men a place to socialise, discuss important health issues and learn new skills.

Completed all commitments within our Monash Baby Boomer Strategic Action Plan 2010-2014 and our Positive Ageing Action Plan 2010-2014. Key actions included: o coordinating a state-wide forum for our Positive Ageing Reference Groups: ‘Connect-Inspire-Act’; o setting up a specially designed exercise program to support Home and Community Care (HACC)

clients at Oakleigh Recreation Centre; o organising the Senior of the Year Award, initiated by Council’s Positive Ageing Reference Group; o realigning the Positive Ageing Lifestyle (PALS) program to reflect a more asset-based community

development approach.

Successfully recruited “ambassadors” to lead the community engagement and consultation, for development of a new Strategy for an Aged-friendly Monash in 2014.

1.8 Providing support and services for young people.

Opened Batesford Community Hub in Chadstone, with a primary focus on delivering Youth & Family Support Services and activities.

Council provided funding and management of youth programs, youth counselling & family support services - delivered by the Monash Youth & Family Support Services (MYFS) located in Glen Waverley, Clayton and Chadstone.

Strengthened relationships with Schools across Monash and delivering youth development programs in schools (offered to all our primary & secondary schools).

Introduced workshops for families on: Parenting Adolescents: Who’s in Charge?, and Cyber Safety.

Introduced street-based outreach in Clayton & Oakleigh in response to short term needs.

Delivered our commitments in the Monash Action Plan for Young People 2009-2012, including: o Development of the ‘Volume’ youth volunteering program; o Facilitation of ‘Let’s All Play’, a program that successfully introduced newly arrived young migrants

to local sporting clubs; o The introduction of youth specific activities at Council festivals; o Held a Health & Mental Health Wellbeing Forum for young people; o Produced Youth Info. Discount Cards; o Hosted other agencies to provide direct assistance to young people and their families.

Created a new 3-year Monash Youth Plan: 2013-2016 based on comprehensive research including

direct consultations with young people themselves. As a key part of this strategy, commenced an advocacy campaign to improve access to mental health services for young people.

In support of the Youth Foyer Project at Holmesglen TAFE Glen Waverley, provided direct counselling, in-house youth development programs and employment pathway opportunities for the young residents.

Organised Festivals and events for young people, including the o The MYFS’ Glen Waverley Skate and Music Festival, each March o Monash Youth Film Festival, in 2010, 2011 & 2013. o The Welcome Event for International Students commenced 2013

Page 9

2. A planned and connected city


Our community told us that a planned and connected city is one:

• that retains its garden character while developing vibrant Activity Centres that are residential, employment, transport, services, entertainment and cultural hubs

• with easy and quick connections to the rest of Melbourne

• where people have access to good road infrastructure

• that is committed to keeping improved public transport on the agenda

• with a range of different housing so young families and older people can afford to stay in Monash

• with a strong and diverse local economy that provide jobs for local people

Page 10

Council’s achievements & progress towards community priorities, 2010 to 2013

2.1 Investing in the strategic development of our city to promote its character and amenity

Commenced a major review of Council’s key town planning framework: Monash Planning Scheme. Preliminary work was undertaken to progress this review and inform Council’s response to State Government proposals for new residential zones. Important new strategies/policies were also drafted and community input was invited in 2014. These included: o a revised Housing Strategy (to better manage housing pressures); o a revised Industrial Land Use Strategy (rezoning to maximize local job opportunities); o a draft policy for Licensed Premises within Oakleigh and Glen Waverley and a draft Gaming Policy; o a draft policy to encourage developers to have their proposals demonstrate Environmentally

Efficient Design.

Council continued to provide professional town planning services by carefully reviewing all planning applications or subdivision applications; offering guidance and granting permits where appropriate.

Continued to provide professional building services (through Council surveyors and inspectors) to ensure appropriate advice and issuing of building permits across the City.

Continued strong advocacy on behalf of Waverley Park residents, Mulgrave to ensure high voltage powerlines within the estate are put underground, consistent with Mirvac’s original 2002 planning permit.

Continued investment by Council in removal of graffiti across Monash by cleaning offensive graffiti from council properties and providing graffiti removal kits to residents. For three consecutive years Council has successfully won grants from the State Government Department of Justice to prevent and manage graffiti. For example the community graffiti project 2013/14, which engaged local communities for the installation of two ‘art murals’ in Huntingdale and Glen Waverley.

2.2 Developing the City’s Activity Centres to create vibrant centres where new residential and commercial

development is linked to transport and services.

Successfully introduced ‘Monash Pride Crews’ to Clayton, Glen Waverley and Oakleigh. An initiative to improve the look and feel of our activity centres. Cleaning staff not only care for each centre but also develop relationships with traders and provide information to community members visiting the centres.

Conducted community consultations about footpath trading and footpath access in all Activity Centres from July 2012. Importantly, the adopted policy reflects requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 and Equal Opportunity Act 1985. Implementation of the policy has now been completed across Monash.

Completed a Structure Plan for Oakleigh Major Activity Centre and progressed plans for redevelopment of Council-owned land within the Oakleigh Activity Centre with five companies shortlisted in 2012 to put forward proposals for the redevelopment/s.

Conducted community consultations about upgrading the public spaces in Eaton Mall, Oakleigh. Using this input, the Mall was redeveloped in two stages between 2011-2013.

In accord with the Oakleigh Village Plan, footpath trading markers and umbrellas were installed throughout the Village.

Completed the Glen Waverley Activity Centre Master Plan that focused on strategic use of Council-owned land in the Glen Waverley Activity Centre. Used this master planning to drafting a broader Glen Waverley Structure Plan and Sustainable Transport Plan, for community comment in 2014.

Page 11

Council’s progress in developing a well planned and connected city

Council, alongside local businesses and residents, lobbied strongly for the removal of the Clayton level crossings. Pleasingly, in early 2014, the State Government announced plans to proceed with grade separation of the railway lines at both Clayton Road and Centre Road level crossings in Clayton.

Council’s Clayton Community Strengthening Project identified priorities of the Clayton community for its busy shopping precinct, as a result of successful community engagement. New “way-finding signs” have been installed as a first step in improving the shopping precinct. And improvements in Thomas St. Laneway, Clayton have significantly enhancing the look, feel and safety of the laneway. This is a busy pedestrian link within the Clayton Activity Centre. IN 2013.14 Council was again successful in winning another State Government grant for continuation of the Clayton Street Laneway Project.

2.3 Investing in parking facilities.

Completed construction of the $17.3 million Euneva Project within Glen Waverley Activity Centre. It provides 351 public car spaces over six levels and a secure 48 space basement car park for use by MonashLink.

Completion of car park works within Mulgrave Reserve, Mulgrave and Holmesglen Reserve, Ashwood.

Completed design work for the multi-deck car park off Atkinson Street, Oakleigh.

2.4a. Investing in the city’s pedestrian and bicycle network.

Council adopted the new Monash Walking and Cycling Strategy in 2013 and two initiatives from this strategy were immediately implemented: • painting of bollards at trail entrance and exit points to ensure higher visibility of trails; • design & ordering of new signage for the Gardiners Creek Trail.

Ongoing maintenance of over 50km of off-road and over 15km of on-road bike paths and shared footways across the City.

In 2013, Council committed to increase its annual budget allocations for both footpath maintenance and extensions to footpaths and bicycle paths. One example of major work in this area has been improvements to the footpath on the Hanover Street Bridge, Oakleigh, while Metro Trains undertook bridge works.

Completed improvements to Scotchmans Creek Trail, including the “missing link” in Mount Waverley, between Forster and Waverley Roads; installation of new concrete shared pathways along the trail and upgrades to shared pathways at four locations along this trail - in Oakleigh: near Park Road, Drummond Street and Atkinson Street, and in Mt.Waverley near Stanley Avenue.

Completed upgrades on Gardiners Creek Trail at Ashwood, near Jingella Reserve.

Completed the $1.4 million Warrigal Road bike path ‘underpass’ in partnership with City of Boroondara and Federal Government funding.

Developed a handy Monash Walking & Cycling Map to become available in 2014 as hard copy pamphlet or online through Council’s website: www.monash.vic.gov.au .

2.4b. Investing in the city’s local road network.

Council has ensured a modern effective fleet of plant & equipment for maintenance of council assets and public spaces, including street sweepers. Council also continues to invest in professional engineering services and advice to ensure quality design, construction and inspection of our assets.

http://www.monash.vic.gov.au/

Page 12


Implemented works in accord with our local area traffic management program, including construction of three roundabouts in Grenfell Road, Mount Waverley.

Completed local road resurfacing, kerb and channel replacements and road reconstruction as programmed annually. Local roads that were reconstructed in past three years 2010-2013, using Council and Federal Government funding were: • In Oakleigh: Railway Avenue, Allen Street, Caloola Avenue, Hamilton Street, Young Street, Warrigal

Road service road, Atkinson Street, Oxford Street and Mill Road. . • In Hughesdale: Callander Street, Austin Street and Ellendale Street. • In Clayton: Kanooka Grove.

Completed an audit of street signs, with almost 14,000 signs replaced or repaired.

Completed strategic and local drainage improvement works across the City, including major works in: • Glen Waverley, at Brandon Park Reserve, at David Crawford Reserve and at Remington Drive. • Mt Waverley, in Smyth St. and in Mayfield Drive. • Chadstone, in Aloomba Street/Amaroo Street, • Burwood, in Evans Street. • Oakleigh, in Dandenong Road; • Wheelers Hill, in Phoenix Drive.

Proactive inspections of Council’s road assets undertaken in accord with its Road Management Plan and preventative inspection of around 3,400 of Council’s critical drainage pits to ensure they operate as intended.

Council’s 2009 Road Management Plan was comprehensively reviewed and subsequently amended in 2013 following input from our community consultations in 2012/13 in accordance with the Road Management Act.

2.5 Encouraging ongoing economic development and growth of local jobs.

Council continued its commitment to the innovative Monash Enterprise Centre – a ‘business incubator’, which provides office space and administrative services to small businesses transitioning from home-based enterprises. Council owns the facility in Mulgrave and continues to provide high-level support to enable the Centre to flourish. In 2013, Council was successful in attracting significant Federal Government funding for significant expansion of the facilities. The new Eastern Business Innovation Centre is expected to open mid 2015.

Supported the annual Monash Business Awards (acknowledging and promoting outstanding businesses in Monash) as well as Economic Forums each year. Learning and networking by local businesses has also been supported by Council’s ongoing production of ‘Focus’ our business newsletter.

Facilitated the Monash Women’s Business Network and conducted events to provide networking opportunities for business women, including the Annual Women in Business Exhibition and Luncheon.

Council extended its Golden Plate food safety award program to include a five star rating system.

Adopted a new Economic Development Strategy & Action Plan for 2013-2017 addressing issues identified by the business community including a long term goal to make Monash a key economic region in Melbourne.

Worked in partnership with Small Business Victoria and VECCI to provide up to date training and information for small to medium size businesses and start ups.

Partnered with State Government and Oakleigh and Clayton trader associations to implement actions as part of the Streetlife Program.

Page 13


2.6 Building on the strengths of the Technology Precinct and secure its long term future as a magnet for high

tech research, development and industry. Delivered a key submission to the State Government, in response to Plan Melbourne (their draft

metropolitan planning strategy). Council’s submission highlighted the importance of the ‘Monash Technology Precinct’ as a world-class precinct, generating significant employment opportunities (already at 60,000 jobs).

Council has recognised the importance and significance of the Monash Technology Precinct by providing a special zone to maintain and promote its use for research, industry and office space. This precinct forms part of the Monash ‘Employment Cluster’, indentified as being nationally significant. Council is working collaboratively with the State’s Metropolitan Planning Authority to now realise the potential of this precinct.

Council is a member of the South East Melbourne Innovation Precinct which provides programs linking businesses to research organisations in the precinct.

2.7 Putting in place strategies to encourage development of private and public affordable housing.

Drafted a new housing strategy to directly address housing diversity and affordability across Monash.

Adopted a new local planning policy 2011, regarding Student Accommodation within Monash. This policy was informed by consultations undertaken with our community and stakeholders.

Actively participated in the Eastern Affordable Housing Alliance, including development of a Regional Forum on this issue in 2013.

Supported the success of the Youth Foyer project at Holmesglen TAFE, Glen Waverley, by offering its young residents access to Monash Aquatic & Recreation Centre (MARC) located over the road; pathways for employment through MARC, including certified training, and other youth programs.

Presentation to the State Government of a significant submission in 2013, responding to Plan Melbourne the draft Melbourne metropolitan planning strategy. Council’s submission highlighted the necessity for affordable living and diverse housing in Monash and the Eastern region.

Assistance provided to support the significant redevelopment of the social housing project in Ashwood-Chadstone, managed by the Port Phillip Housing Association.

2.8 Working in partnership with neighbouring councils and community organisations to advocate for

continuing improvements to public transport services in the city. Council is a member of the Eastern Transport Coalition (ETC) and has participated in ETC Summits to

lobby state government for improvements and priorities identified for this region.

Page 14

3 An Inclusive & safe community

Picture to be inserted here

Our community told us that a safe and involved community is one:

o with a sense of place and where people feel safe and connected to their community

o with facilities and opportunities for people to come together and actively participate in the life of their community

o where council continues to listen and show real interest in the community

o that is rich in skills and knowledge, with an openness to life-long learning

o that uses the most up to date online technology to enhance people’s lives while still valuing human contact

Page 15


As a foundation to supporting an inclusive Monash, Council developed a comprehensive Monash Equity & Access Framework in 2013.14/ This framework is based firmly on principles of: human rights, social justice, access and equity and a whole-of-Council approach to policy development and service provision.

3.1 Exploring the unique social and community needs of our local neighbourhoods.

Funded a community strengthening project - Strengthening Clayton and Clarinda Project over 3 years, successfully engaged many within these communities to identify strategic priorities for action and resourcing in the diverse, busy suburb of Clayton resulting in a Clayton Community Action Plan, 2013. In addition to giving the community a stronger voice in local planning, other achievements of the project were: 1. Delivery of accredited training and leadership training for migrant & refugee residents; 2. Creation of a community garden at Melaleuca Community Hub; 3. Contributing to improved community safety in Clayton activity centre.

Planned more locally focused ‘neighbourhood events’ in consultation with members of the local community, commencing in 2013/14 with local events in Ashwood and Mulgrave.

Updated our detailed demographic profiles and population forecasts for each suburb within Monash. These profiles are accessible online for all, in order to promote better understanding of the diversity within Monash and its small areas and enhance strategic and forward planning.

Introduced a new stream of funding into Council’s Community Grants Program from 2014, Community Partnership Funding for Neighbourhood Houses. This is specifically aimed at assisting our local Neighbourhood Houses with their core business of strengthening their communities. The funding offers assistance for their programs as well as facility rental costs.

3.2 Optimising our use of sporting reserves and facilities and explore new technologies to enhance them.

Committed to an Active Reserves Strategy and implemented Stage 1 & 2 of this Strategy.

Committed to a Masterplan for improving Central Reserve, Glen Waverley - which has guided its improvements.

Upgraded irrigation systems and converted existing turf to warm season grasses at key reserves throughout the City. Continued installation and upgrade of low-abrasive cricket wicket covers to ensure the surface remains safe for winter sports.

Conducted a ‘feasibility study’, regarding the use of synthetic sports surfaces, for high use playing fields in Monash.

Implemented new Facility Management Software at Monash Aquatic & Recreation Centre, the Clayton Aquatic & Health Club and Oakleigh Recreation Centre – enabling the introduction of reciprocal membership rights and improved communication with members.

3.3 Adapting our communications and services to meet community expectations to conduct business with council online.

Created a new customer service unit and frontline counter at the Civic Centre supported by a customer service ‘Guarantee’ to our community.

Introduced a system for community members to make direct requests for service ‘online’

Continued to enhance our monthly newsletter for all households and community services in the City - the Monash Bulletin, with translated versions for Chinese, Greek and Italian residents as requested.

Page 16

Council’s progress in fostering a safe and inclusive community

Continued development and enhancement of Council’s website and enabled the public to view proposals for development online.

3.4 Ensuring council is consulting and engaging with the community in contemporary, appropriate and

meaningful ways.

Continued to hold 12 Council Meetings each year which are fully open to the public and address questions submitted by our community.

Invested annually in the collection of community feedback about Council’s performance, through the Victorian Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey, an independently conducted telephone survey. Careful analysis and discussion of the results annually, to inform Council services and responding to expectations of our residents.

Facilitated regular Advisory Groups and Reference Groups for Council, enabling community representatives to give guidance to Council: o The Monash Young Persons Reference Group, with ~ 19 young people aged 14 – 25 years, working

on new ways for young citizens to have their say. o The Multicultural Advisory Committee, supporting Council to implement its Multicultural Action

Plan, and form submissions to the National Anti-Racism Strategy and Access & Equity Inquiry. o The Disability Consultative Committee, providing advice on implementation of Council policies,

strategies and submissions and organisation of Council’s annual Disability Forum. o The Environmental Advisory Committee, focusing on promoting and implementing the Monash

Environmental Sustainability Road Map. o The Positive Ageing Reference Group was formed in 2003 and has been active in the Positive

Ageing Expo, Monash Seniors Festival, continuation of the Positive Ageing Lifestyles program and providing feedback on various Monash plans and strategies.

Adopted a modern Engagement Framework and Guidelines.

Undertook a major public consultation effort in 2012, to seek community views to inform over 10 key Council Plans for the four years 2013-2017. This community consultation, branded Monash-in-Four, was designed around the four areas of focus of the Monash Long Term Strategy.

3.5 Raising community awareness about safety in the home and public spaces.

Facilitated activities within Monash as part of Community Safety Month each year.

Driven a community education program in relation to Prevention of Violence Against Women. This is a partnership project with VicHealth and MonashLink and includes: o Community presentations and info sessions o A social marketing campaign promoting the key message: ‘SAY NO to Violence Against Women, SAY

YES to Equality and Respect’. o The launch of a significant program aimed at Generating Equality and Respect with an initial focus

on Clayton community for 2013-2015. Initiated the successful ‘Monash Milk Bar Network Exchange’ to support these Monash business

providers to feel safe within their business premises and more socially connected to their wider community. This program was sponsored by the State’s Community Crime Prevention Program, and Monash has now been invited to share this strategy statewide as a model for improving community safety.

Page 17


3.6 Delivering an inclusive, diverse, effectively managed festival and events program, and provide local places to experience art and cultural expression.

Continued commitment to delivering an annual events program and calendar of events including: exhibitions, community festivals, forums and neighbourhood events, concerts, community awards, ceremonies, celebrations of nationally important days/weeks and the inspiring Wordfest.

Festivals have sparkled across the whole of our City, with: o Continued support of the popular Clayton Street Festival and the Chinese New Year Lantern Festival o The launch of the vibrant Oakleigh Music Festival - a ten-day celebration showcasing live music,

energetic performances, fun for the kids and adventurous cuisine from around the world. o Jells Park coming alive each year with Carols by Candlelight; o Neighbourhood events in Ashwood-Chadstone and Mulgrave ; o Glen Waverley Youth Music & Skate Festival, organised by Council’s FReeZA Youth Committee; o In 2013 provided support for the inaugural Oakleigh Greek Glendie.

Held a Harmony in Soccer Day, 2014 which attracted a large representation of teenagers from African backgrounds.

Continued our investment in Public Art with: o Unveiling of the ‘Spirit of the Land’ sculpture of a feather and surrounding landscaping in JW Hurst

Reserve, Oakleigh beside the busy intersection of Dandenong and Ferntree Gully Rds. Stimulating us to reflect on the suburb’s traditional owners. The feather references ‘Bunjil the Creator’, an important local Indigenous creation story. In Indigenous history, the feather is known as both delicate and strong and signifies the beginning of a new life.

o Development of a Public Art Policy with community feedback in 2012; highlighting the need to advocate for more public art projects, and aiming to identify local sites for public art and further development opportunities with input from a new Public Art Advisory Group.

o Adoption of a more coordinated approach across Council Departments towards place-making and the planning of civic projects – which includes early discussion and input about creating opportunities for public art.

Fostered creative and performing arts in Monash, through our ‘Community Arts Grants’ Program – partly aimed at artists and local art groups and also reflecting our diverse municipality.

3.7 Building the reputation of Monash Gallery of Art (MGA) as a nationally relevant cultural institution

recognised for its expertise in Australian photography.

Maintained free public admission to the Gallery, with visitor numbers increasing each year by an average of 9% since 2010/11.

Pursuing the actions highlighted in the Gallery’s Strategic Plan 2012-2015: o Continued to offer workshops and talks by curator & artists and curator.

o Welcomed education & group tours from schools, tertiary institutions & local community groups.

o Delivered the successful Bowness Photography Prize annually, with the MGA Foundation.

o Raised more than $71,000 at the Gallery’s annual fundraising dinner 2014, to support MGA programs, with the auction of some of Australia’s best contemporary photography.

Page 18


Attracted donations of 250 artworks during 2010-2013, including some rare and valuable pieces, and bringing the MGA’s total collection to 2,200 by 2014. These donations reflect MGA’s national reputation among collectors and artists as holding a significant collection of Australian photography.

Successfully secured a new catering company for the Gallery’s Cafe, in 2014 - this company ‘Big Kitchen Events’ is a large catering company, whose Directors include Masterchef’s Gary Mehigan.

3.8 Providing library collections and services to foster lifelong learning, enjoyment and wellbeing. And promoting libraries as dynamic portals where our diverse community can connect to the wider world through electronic means.

Opened a Neighbourhood Library in Mulgrave - at the Mulgrave Neighbourhood House, in Wellington Reserve. This neighbourhood library runs children’s story time sessions and provides a free wifi service, just like all Council’s Libraries.

Implemented all the actions to date within Monash Public Library Service Strategic Plan 2012-2015:

o Commenced e-book subscriptions with two major e-book vendors;

o Held public tutorials promoting use of new technologies;

o Continued to build the Library’s community language collections and initiated community selection days at Oakleigh and Clayton libraries where members of the Chinese, Vietnamese and Greek communities were invited to help select books;

o Continued to ensure our libraries hosted a range of activities & events, provide access to personal computers and answering all reference enquiries .

Received a four star rating for our Library Service (with 5 being the highest rating) after completing a continuous improvement program of the State Library of Victoria and the Public Libraries Victoria Network.

3.9 Increasing Council’s capacity to support agencies and the community in responding to emergencies.

During the 2011 February storm - Council received around 600 requests for assistance

Won the Municipal Emergency Management Award, 2011/12

Other ways Council has fostered a more inclusive, safe community Facilitated increased participation by women in all levels of our community, through:

o Undertaking community consultation regarding ‘Celebrating the Leader in every Woman’, after which Council adopted a Women’s Leadership Strategy.

o Initiating the Empowering Monash Women’s Awards o Continuing facilitation of the Monash Women in Business Network

Signed on to ‘Racism - It stops with me’, a Human Rights Commission program and in 2014 hosted a Multicultural Forum on ‘Talking about Racism: Challenges and Opportunities’.

Worked for stronger participation and independence of by people with a disability, by implementing commitments within Council’s Disability Access and Inclusion Plan, including the installation of audible and visible alarm systems in six Council buildings and accessible reception counters at Council offices; planning for multiple hearing loops in key Council facilities; adoption of the new Footpath Trading and Access Policy. And holding annual ‘Disability Forums’ to review key issues of impact.

Page 19


Encouraged volunteering within our community by:

o Supporting the Monash Volunteer Resource Centre (now known as South Eastern Volunteers) to build their volunteer hours for a range of services and programs within our City.

o Publically acknowledging and awarding local volunteers through the annual Sir John Monash Awards recognising outstanding efforts in 8 categories: ‘Youth Leadership’; Outstanding Advocate of people with a disabilities’; ‘Positive Ageing Leadership’; ‘Sustainability Leadership’; Multicultural Champion’; ‘Women’s Leadership’; ‘Active Monash’ and finally ‘Volunteer of the Year’. •

Contributed to reviews and development of policy at State and National levels, through advocacy and submissions, including the following: o Inquiry into Multiculturalism, 2011 by the Federal Government Joint Standing Committee on Migration. o Access & Equity Inquiry, 2012 by the Federal Department of Immigration & Citizenship. o Proposal for a National Anti-Racism Strategy and Partnership, 2012 by the Australian Human Rights

Commission. o Inquiry into Social Inclusion and Victorians with a Disability, 2012 by the State Government Family

and Community Development Committee. o A community consultation by Victorian Police (in 2013/14) regarding their field contact and cross-

cultural training.

Page 20

4 A green and naturally-rich city


Our community told us that a green and naturally-rich city is one:

• where people have a positive attitude to recycling and being waterwise

• that keeps its green leafy character and values open spaces

• where environmental sustainability is part of business as usual

• with high quality recreational facilities for organised sport and walking and cycling

Page 21


4.1 Leading the Monash community in responsible recycling, waste and litter management.

Conducted successful recycling campaigns: Battery Back (collecting Batteries); the Mobile Muster (collecting mobile phones) and Detox your Home (collecting fluorescent light bulbs and chemicals such as oils, paint).

Launched the ‘Don’t Trash Monash’ education campaign.

Won applications for grants from Keep Australia Beautiful for three consecutive years 2011-2014. These grants have enabled the installation of litter bins in recreation reserves across Monash and supported education efforts aimed at sporting groups and users of recreation spaces about litter control and minimisation.

Successfully used a grants program, to conduct resource recovery projects aimed at promoting recycling and educating the following groups: culturally and linguistically diverse communities, students and residents in multi-unit developments.

Delivered popular programs within Monash schools and kindergartens about recycling, composting and waste; and as part of the Resourcesmart Schools Program, Council supported many local early learning centres with their aims to become more sustainable.

Joined the Compost Revolution Program to encourage residents to compost at home.

4.2 Cultivating sustainable living practices within the Monash community including water and energy use. Using community events as opportunities to engage community in discussion of environmental issues.

Facilitated World Environment Day awards ceremony between 2010 and 2012.

Developed an online Sustainable Living Guide that explains actions residents may take to live in more sustainable ways.

Provided Sustainable Living Workshops to the community on topics including energy and water saving practices, waste management and reduction (through recycling and composting) and indigenous planting.

From 2013, Council introduced a Sustainability Stall to festivals within Monash, including the Oakleigh Festival, the Clayton Festival and the Chinese Festival – engaging more residents in thinking about sustainable living practices.

Participated in the national Garage Sale Trail initiative to promote reuse of household items

4.3 Reducing our community’s use of resources and our greenhouse gas emissions.

Funding sought for the replacement of 8000+ streetlights with energy efficient light bulbs to reduce Council’s carbon gas emissions; culminating in a commitment by Council to invest in this major transition.

Participated in the Energy Retrofit Scheme’s LESS program (or low energy supplies services) offering complete energy retrofits to residential households. This resulted in a total of 333 Monash households receiving retrofits.

Facilitated the Visy Grants Program within Monash – awarding community groups and organisations to pay for projects that reduce water or energy use, increase biodiversity and encourage recycling and waste reduction.

In partnership with 4 neighbouring councils – City of Monash continues to own and run a Landfill Gas Project – which collects methane from the waste in the landfill, converts this into power, which is the sold to the electricity Grid.

Page 22

Council’s progress in cultivating a green and naturally-rich City

4.4 Leading by example in adopting sustainable practices and technology in council buildings and operations.

Adopted a Sustainability Road Map in 2011, to build on the environmentally sustainable initiatives already being implemented.

Achieved ‘Gold’ in Sustainability Victoria’s Waste Wise Program.

Monash was one of six finalists in the 2013 Awards for Victorian Sustainable City of the Year; and won the Victorian Litter Prevention Award for its ‘Monash Pride Crew’ initiatives.

As an active member of Ecobuy, Council remains committed to increasing the purchase of environmentally friendly products.

Planning for climate change risk through the development of a Climate Change Adaptation Roadmap and Biodiversity Monitoring in Melbourne’s East Project in partnership with the Eastern Alliance for Greenhouse Action.

Council initiated multiple energy conservation projects including: o Completed energy audits at 14 Council buildings.

o Installed a ‘living roof’ the Civic Centre Council Chambers

o Installed energy efficient lighting in Council buildings including: the Bogong Car Park, Glen Waverley, the Libraries at Glen Waverley and Oakleigh; Ashwood Hall, Clayton Hall, Fliegner Hall, Mulgrave Community Centre, Mount Waverley Community centre, Brine Street Child Care Centre, the Monash Civic Centre and Works Administration Centre.

o Installed new features at five properties used by community to improve energy efficiency and comfort. These features included UV reflective, insulating roof paints; double-glazed windows and insulation within walls and the properties were: three Kindergarten Centres (Nara, Syndal and Glen Waverley South) and two Pavilions (at Wellington Reserve and Jack Edwards Reserve).

o Installed solar hot water systems at five properties used by community (Mulgrave Community Centre), Glen Waverley Community Centre, Mt.Waverley Youth Centre, Brine Street Child Care Centre and Waverley Women’s Sports Centre) using grants awarded by the Local Government Energy Efficiency Program.

o Undertook a feasibility study for co-trigeneration at Monash Aquatic and Recreation Centre (MARC).

o Contributed to the funding of a Coordinator for the Eastern Alliance for Greenhouse Action.

Completed water harvesting and efficiency projects:

o Water harvesting at Mount Waverley Reserve to capture the rainwater run-off from the covered roof of the neighbouring Melbourne Water Reservoir.

o Installed rainwater harvesting tanks for toilet flushing and watering gardens at nine community facilities: Lum Reserve Pavilion, Notting Hill Hall, Wellington Reserve pavilion, Fregon Hall, Alvie Hall, Jingella Reserve, Columbia Park Preschool, Brine Street Child Care Centre and Halcyon Day Centre.

o Installed eighteen water efficient taps at the Monash Aquatic and Recreation Centre.

o Responded to changed water restrictions for sports fields with the rollout of warm season grasses at Central Reserve athletics space and at the following eight reserves: Mt.Waverley, Mayfield, Carlson, Princess Highway, Jingella, Holmesglen and ‘overplanting’ at Glen Waverley North Reserve and WA Scammell Reserve.

Page 23

Council’s progress in cultivating a green and naturally-rich City

4.5 Educating and supporting residents to adapt to a low carbon economy.

Monitored waste collection levels to ensure diversion rates of waste from landfill are maintained at high levels (currently ~58%). In 2011/12, Monash was the top performing Victorian council for waste diversion from Landfill – achieved through effective recycling and separation of green waste. Monash was second in Victoria in 2012/13.

Monitored and reported on the performance of the kerbside green waste collection, through the Green Waste Disposal Facility, which continues to convert this green waste to compost – sold onto nurseries and the landscaping industry.

Joined the Victorian Government Electric Vehicle Trial to help governments at all levels to better understand these new technologies and transitioning issues. The electric car was a popular feature at our local festivals and the Holmesglen TAFE Enviro Week, 2013.

4.6 Maintaining Council’s provision of open space, for passive and active uses.

Completed the first parts of a new Open Space Strategy for Monash.

Completed plan for Portsmouth Street Reserve, Mount Waverley.

Wetland improvements across Monash have included: o Improvements made to the lake at Sienna Estate Mount Waverley, including: a pump upgrade of

the reticulation system, desilting the wetland, weed removal, replanting, repair to the lake retainer wall, rockwork reinstatement and erosion control.

o At Holmesglen Reserve, Ashwood - desilting the wetland and removing aggressive plant species. o At Gilda Court, Mulgrave - desilting of the pond o Upgrading of Herriot’s Boulevard Wetland, Glen Waverley, including increasing its capacity. o At Monash Gallery, Wheelers Hill – restoration of its wetland, providing planting that is less

aggressive and obstructive and to achieve a more open appearance to the area.

Adopted a new Domestic Animal Management Plan for Monash 2013-2017. This Plan explains local regulations about access by dogs to public places (parks, reserves and streets) and discusses the impacts of cats on our native fauna.

4.7 Maintaining the leafy character of the city and streetscapes.

Continued to invested in an annual planting program of trees, shrubs and ground covers and managing 100,000 plus street trees, as part of a larger cyclic maintenance program.

Maintained our annual tree inspection, pruning and care program – to ensure the viability of our tree population within our reserves and streets. Responded to all requests to inspect public trees. Conducted community consultations on the management of public trees.

Completed a detailed ‘street-tree audit’ as the first stage in developing a proposed streetscape enhancement strategy and management plan in order to minimise the adverse impacts of compliance pruning near power lines.

Supported and participated in community activity days for planting, weeding, pruning and erosion control works.

Developed priority BushIand Management Plans for Bogong Reserve in Glen Waverley, Sunnybrook Drive Reserve in Wheelers Hill, and Gordon Road Reserve in Mount Waverley.

Page 24

Finally, to achieve this vision, Council’s work has been underpinned by principles of:

Fiscal Responsibility, Accountability and Leadership

Fiscal Responsibility

In 2013, Council resolved to return its Working Capital Ratio (WCR) to a positive position by 2016 while maintaining service levels, following payment of a $12M superannuation call in 2012/13. The aim was to have a WCR of 1.5:1 - which effectively means that for every $1 of short-term debt Council would have $1.50 in liquid assets. The sale of the Council’s Residential Aged Care facilities (see notes below) and achieving efficiency savings (including those from Council’s Best Value Program) enabled Council’s WCR to return to a positive position mid 2014. Council’s 2014/15 Budget and Strategic Resource Plan is therefore based on a working capital ratio greater than 1.5:1 for each of the next three years. So by 2017 Council will be in a very strong financial position.

As part of all tender and quotation evaluations, Council maintains a minimum price weighting of 60% to ensure that Council obtains best value for its major purchases.

Council resolved questions and challenges about its continued provision of Residential Aged Care in 2014. These questions arose in the context of: o the reality of a mature market now delivering quality residential aged care in Victoria; o the challenge of Council meeting significant looming costs of upgrading and modernizing these

facilities; o Council wanting to ensure the ongoing quality and viability of these Residential Aged Care facilities.

Council therefore undertook an expression of interest process, carefully evaluated submissions and subsequently resolved to sell its two residential aged care homes to an established specialist provider – Royal Freemasons Homes Victoria. Importantly, this sale was conditional on existing residents & families retaining their rights and conditions; and the facilities continuing to be used for Residential Aged Care services. Royal Freemasons Homes Victoria is a non-profit provider with a proven reputation for quality residential aged care services and provision of accredited Residential Aged Care facilities.

Accountability

Governance

Put new policies into place and enhanced existing policies and procedures, to ensure on-going compliance with legislation related to information privacy, human rights, protected disclosures (formerly whistleblower’s protection) and Freedom of Information legislative requirements.

Following a review, Council revised its Councillor Code of Conduct and adopted a Caretaker Policy, which will apply during an ‘election period’. These documents are available on the Council’s website.

Council also established its Discretionary Fund Policy, which formalised and refined its existing practices. This policy is also available on the website.

As part of reaching out to the community, the Council conducted a number of its Council meetings at various community venues throughout the municipality, in 2010, which were well received.

Page 25

Risk Management

Council takes a structured and thorough approach to risk management with a plan that is regularly reviewed and adapted to meet changing circumstances.

Councils’ Risk and Opportunity Management Framework continues to be adopted and in bedded into our organisation. Each year Managers and Directors review Department and Divisional Risks to identify new risks that are relevant to the current work climate and that are linked to Annual Business Plans. The controls mitigating these risks are evaluated and reported on a quarterly basis. The Executive Leadership Team identifies the organisations Strategic Risks annually. These risks are also reported on a quarterly basis with a report being presented to the Audit & Risk Committee.

Leadership

Organisational Capability

Council has continued its commitment to its people through the adoption of an updated Enterprise Bargaining Agreement (EBA) and the development of a People Plan with the emphasis on supporting people to achieve in their roles. A formal Health and Wellbeing employee program has also been developed to improve employee awareness and behaviours around physical activity and healthy eating.

Customer Service

In 2013 Council's renewed its focus on providing excellent customer service to its community with: Commencement of a centralised model of Customer Service in early 2013. A strong Customer Service

Team has evolved, providing a range of frontline services including telephone & counter enquiries, including receipting & administrative tasks. The Team is constantly learning and developing answering to completion over 63% of all phone calls to the call centre no: 9518 3555.

The introduction in 2013 of a Customer Service Guarantee, with 40 specific targets, reported on each quarter including actions to be taken in instances where our performance targets are not met. The aim is to enable local residents to know what timelines and service standards they can expect across a range of Council services , from how promptly phone calls will be answered to how many metres of footpath will be upgraded each year.

Council’s Call Centre is now linked to the National Relay Service to better assist callers with a hearing

impairment.

The report has already highlighted Council’s achievements over the past 4 years related to principles of: advocacy, sustainability and engagement which Council committed to in Monash 2021: a thriving community.

Documents

Council’s Snapshot Report on progress towards achieving ... · • Wheelers Hill: at Southern Reserve , Lum Reserve and Grantham Terrace playgrounds. • Clayton - Meade Reserve