Monday 6 February 2017

Council Amalgamations, Planning Reform, Electorate Woman of the Year and Consider Fostering

Council Amalgamations

The government’s willingness to revisit forced council amalgamations is encouraging and my recent letters call on the new Premier and new Minister for Local Government to support the community’s wishes and withdraw planned amalgamation. I’ve asked to meet with the minister about Woollahra Council’s future. 

Planning Reform

I encourage you to review the EDO’s (Environment Defenders Office) summary of the government’s proposals for a new planning act. Some improvements to the act are being proposed such as minimum public participation standards but climate change continues to be ignored with proposals to water down principles of ecological sustainable development in the act’s objects. The community will continue to be denied rights to appeal decisions that affect their neighbourhood and the environment.

We need a planning system that works to get the best outcomes for the community when shaping the built environment and dealing with resources-rich land. I know many of you feel that the current system is a mere rubber stamp for proposals even when there are strong and valid community objections, such as occurred with the Crown Casino at Barangaroo. I am still reviewing the draft act and encourage you to also look at changes and make a submission.

You have until Friday 10 March. Information to help you comment is HERE. 

Electorate Woman Of The Year

Congratulations to Elaine Czulkowski of Darlinghurst, Sydney electorate Local Woman of the Year. I nominated Elaine for her commitment to equality and many years of support for LGBTI organisations including Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, The Bingham Cup, ACON, Out for Australia, Queer Screen, Australian Marriage Equality and Australians for Equality.

Consider Fostering

Have you thought about being a foster parent?

The Australian Association of Child Welfare Agencies is seeking an extra 660 foster carers over the next year for emergency, respite and short term care. Foster carers and adoptive parents provide secure, loving and supported homes for children and young people who are unable to live safely with their family. Details: www.fosteringnsw.com.au.