A Social Plan for North Sydney · A Social Plan for North Sydney 1 ... Initiatives are in place to...

A Social Planfor North Sydney 2008-2012

A Social Plan for North Sydney 1

North Sydney Council is pleased to present A Social Plan for North Sydney 2008-2012, which has been developed in consultation with the local community and service providers. The purpose of the plan is to identify and address social issues in North Sydney. Council’s previous Social Plan covered the period 2004-2007.

The Local Government (General) Regulation 1999 requires all councils in New South Wales (NSW) to produce a social or community plan at least once every five years. The legislation was introduced as a means of promoting social justice. North Sydney Council established itself as a forerunner in this area in 1981 when its first Social Plan was adopted voluntarily.

In “Planning a Sustainable Future”, November 2006, the Department of Local Government reviewed its requirements for social planning and proposed three options for future plans, one of which is to streamline the planning and reporting processes for NSW councils, thus integrating social planning into councils’ broader strategic planning. It is expected that the new requirements will be introduced shortly.

Consultation and research for the current plan have identified the following issues:

The first part of the plan describes the character of the North Sydney community, recent changes that have occurred, and the process that has lead to the development of the plan. The second part provides a discussion about issues affecting the North Sydney

those who have participated in the development of

on its implementation.

Genia McCaffery

Mayor of North Sydney

Foreword

A Social Plan for North Sydney2 A Social Plan for North Sydney 3

The purpose of this plan is to identify and address social issues in North Sydney. The Local Government (General) Regulation 1999 requires all councils in New South Wales (NSW) to produce a social or community plan at least once every five years. Council’s previous Social Plan covered the period 2004-2007.

The current plan will promote the Council’s vision

Sydney Council plans, namely the “2020 Vision Strategic Plan” and the “Management Plan”.

statistics and from consultation with the local community and service providers, through various

survey. The consultation and research have identified the following issues:

To address these issues, Council has set a number of objectives.

(i) Community safety

a) Initiatives are in place to address road accidents.

b) Initiatives are in place to address drug and alcohol abuse.

c) The community is more informed about falls

d) The community is more informed about domestic violence and how to report incidents.

e) Facilities and services are made safer and fairer for the whole community.

(ii) Health and wellbeing

lessen its effects.

b) The community is more informed about stress and how to prevent it.

c) The community has access to healthy eating and exercise amenities.

d) Early childhood health is supported.

(iii) Housing

the LGA are supported in accessing affordable accommodation.

b) Older people in need have access to local nursing homes and retirement villages.

medium term housing.

d) There is an increase in the supply of housing suitable for older people and people with disabilities.

(iv) Working, learning and volunteering

affordable childcare.

b) Migrants are supported in entering the

c) Volunteers are recognised and supported.

d) Community groups are recognised and supported.

e) Students are recognised and supported

f ) Individual development is supported.

The objectives will be implemented through various

partnership with external organisations.

we achieve the aims and objectives in the plan, including:

of emerging trends.

Contents

Executive summary 3

Profile of North Sydney 4

Changes in North Sydney 2001-2006 6

Methodology 8

9

Monitoring and implementation 9

Community safety 10

16

26

32

Bibliography 40

41

Appendix 1: Initiatives by target groups 43

Appendix 2: Initiatives by Management Plan 46

Appendix 3: Statistics by target group 53

Appendix 4: Evaluation of A Social Plan for North Sydney

2004-2007 55

Executive summary


Cantonese, Japanese, Mandarin, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Korean, Greek and Hindi. The English language skills of those who speak another language vary.

As well as its residential population, North Sydney also has large numbers of day-time visitors. There are about 60,053 people employed in North Sydney. The industries employing the highest number of people are “Professional, Scientific and Technical Services”, (16%), “Computer System Design and Related Services” (12%), “Telecommunications Services” (5%), “Administrative Services” (5%), “Auxiliary Finance and Insurance Services” (5%). There are also 19 educational institutions drawing a total student population of 18,282 students, the majority of which live outside North Sydney.

At certain times of the year and for special events tens of thousands of people travel to North Sydney to watch boat races by day, fireworks by night, or to simply picnic by the Harbour. The well-patronised Olympic Pool, Stanton Library, North Sydney Oval, and monthly markets in three locations throughout North Sydney, as well as Christmas, Youth Week and other festival events, all attract thousands more.

The North Sydney Local Government Area (LGA) is located on the northern side of Sydney Harbour, and covers 10 square kilometres. It is both urban and green in character, comprising two Central Business Districts (CBD’s), smaller suburban centres, residential areas, parks and open spaces.

The Estimated Residential Population is 62,407 (as at June 2006), and there are marginally more females (52.4%) than males (47.6%). The number of Indigenous persons (0.2%) is proportionately lower than for Greater Sydney (1.1%).

North Sydney attracts young adults who move to the area for employment. Almost 78% of residents participate in the labour force, and 62% of employed persons were employed as either Managers and Administrators or Professionals, compared with 36% for the Greater Sydney region. So not surprisingly, the most dominant population group is 25-34 year olds, representing 27.6% of the population, followed by 35-49 year olds (22.8%).

With regard to the different kinds of dwellings, the majority of people in private property live in flats, units or apartments (70.3%), with most renting (46.4%). The proportion of those who fully own their properties is 22.3%, those in the process of buying them 19.0%. There is a significant component of social housing spread across the LGA that enables low-income earners to live in North Sydney. This has been achieved by a 70 year partnership between North Sydney Council and the State Government Housing Authorities.

The majority of residents were born in Australia (55.4%). However, there are significant numbers of people born overseas (33.5%), with the balance of Census respondents declining to provide this information. Of those born overseas, the top ten countries of birth are the UK, New Zealand, Japan, China, Hong Kong, South Africa, USA, India, Malaysia and Germany. The majority of residents only speak English at home (73%). Of those who speak another language at home, the top ten languages are

Age structureage group (years)

North Sydney Council area

2006 2001

Usual Residence data number %

Sydney Statistical Division % number %

Sydney Statistical Division %

Change 2001 to 2006

0 to 4 2,645 4.5 6.6 2,169 3.9 6.7 476

5 to 11 2,094 3.6 9.1 2,136 3.9 9.5 -42

12 to 17 1,856 3.2 7.9 2,002 3.6 8.0 -146

18 to 24 5,162 8.9 9.9 5,430 9.9 9.9 -268

25 to 34 16,088 27.6 15.3 15,724 28.6 16.0 364

35 to 49 13,306 22.8 22.5 12,149 22.1 22.6 1,157

50 to 59 7,154 12.3 12.2 6,817 12.4 11.5 337

60 to 69 5,077 8.7 7.8 3,750 6.8 7.1 1,327

70 to 84 3,805 6.5 7.3 3,878 7.0 7.3 -73

85 and over 1,072 1.8 1.6 946 1.7 1.4 126

TOTAL 58,259 100.0 100.0 55,010 100.0 100.0 3,249

Snapshot of North Sydney


North Sydney has both a growing and a relatively young resident population. Between 2001 and 2006, the usually resident population counted in the Census grew by 3,250 people, or 5.9%.

With regard to specific population groups, the 25-34 year olds group increased slightly between 2001 and 2006, but the largest increases were in 35-49 year olds (up by 1,217 people) and 60-69 year olds (up by 1,372 people).

This could indicate a change in the role and function of North Sydney LGA, with both parent groups and “empty nesters” moving in. There has also been an increase in 0-4 year olds. Though this group only represented 4.5% of the population (6.6% across Sydney), the population increased by 512 people – a 23.8% increase in number since 2001. The parents of these children are likely to be in the 35-49 year age group, so the increase in both these groups indicates that the area is beginning to attract slightly older couples who are starting families later in life. Some of this population is likely to be couples who have lived in the area for some time, established themselves and are now deciding to have children.

This increase in children is also evident in the household type characteristics – couple families with children under 15 increased from 18.4% to 20.5% of all families. However, the dominant family type in North Sydney is still couple families without children, accounting for 57.4% of family households in 2006.

While family households were the most dominant household type (46%), lone person households were very significant, comprising 34.8% of all households. However, this represented a slight decline since 2001. The majority of lone person households were younger (aged 15-44), but a significant minority (23%) contained lone persons aged over 65. These people are most likely ageing in place.

Overall, household size was relatively steady at 1.90 persons per dwelling, significantly lower than the Greater Sydney average, reflecting the smaller household types (couples without children and lone person households) prevalent in the area. Dwelling structures also reflected this, with 52.6% being high density dwellings (flats in blocks of three stories or more), and only 12.4% separate houses. However, the proportion of separate houses did increase slightly between 2001 and 2006.

With regard to internal migration, of those persons usually resident in North Sydney in 2006, only 32.9% were at the same address as 5 years before. Thus suggesting that the population is very mobile.

Both individual and household incomes for North Sydney residents are relatively high compared to the Greater Sydney region. 51% of individuals had incomes in the top quartile in 2006. However this group barely changed in number between 2001 and 2006. The largest increase was in the third quartile (“medium highest”) group. For household incomes, 42.6% were in the top quartile in 2006, and this also showed the largest increase since 2001. This combination of results may

indicate the influx of dual-income couple families into the area, where each partner is on a moderate-high income.

Despite a slight decline between 2001 and 2006, rental is still the dominant housing market in North Sydney, accounting for 46.4% of all occupied dwellings. Weekly rent paid was generally much higher than the Greater Sydney average, with 54.2% of rented dwellings being in the top quartile of rents across Sydney. However this proportion decreased from 62.1% in 2001, with increases in all the lower quartiles, perhaps indicating that rents in other parts of Sydney are “catching up” to North Sydney. Housing loan repayments were also higher than average, with 58.8% paying more than $2,000 per month.

Looking at cultural and linguistic diversity, North Sydney was a little less diverse than Greater Sydney as a whole, with 18.2% of the population being born in a non-English speaking country, compared to 24.0% in Sydney-wide. However this proportion increased from 17.2% in 2001. The proportion of total overseas-born was actually a little higher than that for Greater Sydney, but English speaking countries made up 15.1% of the total population, double the figure for Sydney. The emerging birthplace groups in North Sydney were China, India and Malaysia, all increasing significantly since 2001. People speaking a language other than English at home increased from 14.7% in 2001 to 16.5% in 2006. The major increases were in Chinese languages and Spanish.

Of the 35,334 employed people counted in North Sydney, 34.2% used public transport to get to work, almost double the Greater Sydney average of 18.0%. There was an increase of 8.9% in people traveling to work by bus, while the use of ferries declined slightly. Train and car use was steady, and 12.3% of people walked to work, up from 11.8%, and almost three times the Greater Sydney average, indicating the accessibility of workplace to residential locations in the area. This shows that despite some clear demographic changes mentioned above, North Sydney does retain its role within the Greater Sydney region as a major

residential location for people seeking proximity to their employment in the inner Sydney and North Shore areas.

Summary of changes in North Sydney, 2001-2006:

5.9% increase in population

(35-49 year olds) and retirement age people (60-69 year olds).

without children, and a decrease in lone person households.

payments are still heavily skewed towards the high end, but less so than in 2001.

less people taking ferries, but car and train use remains relatively stable.

an area where young professionals move for employment, living in lone person or couple only households, however this is diversifying a little, with more children being born and an increase in families and family housing types.

Changes in North Sydney 2001 to 2006


A Social Plan for North Sydney 2008-2012 promotes the Council’s vision for North Sydney:

North Sydney is a vibrant community with a major and unique commercial centre surrounded by related villages and neighbourhood centres. We celebrate community harmony, respect and diversity and we are recognised for our excellence in innovation, business and ecological sustainability.

Ours is a place where residents and businesses are proud to belong and we welcome students and others who work in, visit and enjoy the area. Our community supports social, economic and environmental wellbeing through local and practical solutions.

Vision Strategic Plan” and the “Management Plan 2008/09-2010/11”.

The 2020 Vision is the central strategic plan for Council. Adopted in 2005 with the primary purpose

year 2020, it is seen as a comprehensive planning tool that underpins Council’s policies and processes.

identified in the 2020 Vision.

The Management Plan sets out how the 2020 Vision and the Social Plan will be implemented each financial year. Its purpose is to provide:

the basis for measuring the performance

allocation, and the foundation upon which the lower level operational and business plans and budgets are based.

The process that led to the development of the plan can be summarised as follows:

including:

development of the plan.

prioritised.

o agree actions to address the issues raised.

Government.

There were three main types of consultation:

(i) Consultation session with service providers

Chambers, with four issue groups. Each group was

wanted to raise any further issues. The groups then listed the issues in priority order, and suggested actions to address them, including relevant partners. Attendees were given the option of whether to stay

or move between groups. (A copy of the issues paper and other documents were sent out in advance of

Additional meetings were held with representatives

(ii) Consultation sessions with the community

Community consultation, included focus groups with a number of community groups, across the LGA, including people from culturally and linguistically

consider the same issues as the service providers, whether they agreed with them and whether they wanted to raise any other issues. Then representatives

focus group to develop strategies for addressing the issues.

with Council’s Creating Wellbeing group and a film by the users of the Planet X youth centre.

(iii) Stakeholders survey

People who were unable to attend the consultation sessions, or who wanted to submit their own personal comments were able to complete the survey, which was made available at Stanton Library and on the Council website.

The overall level of response can be summarised as follows:

Methodology Links with other North Sydney Council plans

annual reports and a final report at the end of the plan’s lifespan, to ensure that we achieve the aims and objectives of the plan. The reports will include information about how well we have performed

(such as the cost of housing and road accidents), but over which Council has no direct control, will be monitored to inform Council of emerging trends.

Monitoring and implementation


c) The community is more informed about falls



Key statistics

2006, of which 0 were fatal crashes, 174 were injury crashes and 217 were non-injury crashes.

Traffic Authority).

assaults in North Sydney in 2007, of which 54 were at licensed premises and 96 were outdoors or in public places. (Specific Crime Information

NSW).

involving possession and/or use of drugs in North Sydney in 2007. (Specific Crime Information

NSW).

North Sydney residents due to external causes from 2005 to 2006. (Episodes of Care 2005-06

in North Sydney in 2007. (Local Government

Research NSW).

residents to The Anti-Discrimination Board NSW from 2005 to 2006. These related to employment and the purchase of goods and services. (Anti-Discrimination Board, 2007).

a number of areas that could be improved.

The research and consultation results suggest that there are both perceived and actual road safety problems to be addressed. Statistics provided by the Road and

road accidents in North Sydney are still of concern. The consultation identified

driving. While others may be caused by pedestrians themselves, by not crossing at safe locations or crossing at the wrong times. The consultation results also highlight schools as particular problem areas. Such problems may be addressed through regular education, enforcement and engineering treatments.

Another area for improvement is problems associated with alcohol and other

important contribution to the local economy and provide meeting places for the community, but which may sometimes be the focal point for alcohol related crime and anti-social behaviour. That said, such problems are not exclusive to licensed

that it may have on their health.

below), identifies falls as the most common external cause of hospitalisations of

example on the street or on public transport. Older people and young children are

By its nature, domestic violence is very much a hidden problem, the extent of which is difficult to measure, as most cases go unreported. Nevertheless, research reveals significant numbers of domestic violence offences and sexual assaults in

including physical and emotional abuse. It can have a devastating effect on victims and the people around them. The most common location for physical assaults

While North Sydney is generally thought of as being quite tolerant, the consultation results suggest that there may some incidents of discrimination towards minority

Objectives


b) Initiatives are in place to address drug and alcohol abuse.

Community safety


Community safety (cont.)

Objective Principle activity/initiative Year(s) Target group(s) Officer(s) External Partner(s) Indicator(s) Target(s)


Road safety action plan developed to All All Road Safety Officer Roads and Traffic Authority NSW, other councils

Number of road safety programs delivered per year.

3

RTA lobbied on infrastructure improvements, such as crossings, phasing of lights,

All All Traffic Committee, Traffic Engineer

NSW Police, Roads and Traffic Authority NSW

Number of infrastructure improvements made per year.

2

alternative means of transport promoted. (I)Yr 3 All Road Safety Officer, Schools Total number of schools

participating in the survey.4

b) Initiatives in place to address drug and alcohol abuse.

Licensed premises controlled by licensees, Police and Council through the Liquor Accord and appropriate use of Place of Public Entertainment (POPE) licenses. (P)

All Young people Fire Officer, Director Community Services

Licensees, NSW Police Average number of licensed premises participating in the Liquor Accord.

Number of POPEs renewed per year.

10

3

Young people’s drug and alcohol issues managed through the Planet X youth centre. (P)

All Young people Youth Services Officer, days within which enquiries are responded to.

1

Drug and alcohol free annual All Young people Youth Services Officer, Number of events promoted as drug and alcohol free held per year.

1

Major events managed according to approved event plans. (P)

All All Technical Officer NSW Police Percentage of major events held each year with an approved event plan.

100

Council manages alcohol free zones and alcohol prohibited areas. (P)

All All Director Library and Community Services, Manager Ranger Services

NSW Police Local Precincts

Total number of zones and areas maintained.

10

c) The community is more informed about

to prevent them.

Footpaths and fences are maintained to an agreed standard. (P)

All All Infrastructure Maintenance

Insurance Manager

within which maintenance requests are investigated and prioritised.

2

Information provided about existing

including on the Council website. (I)

All Older peopleOfficer, Community Information Officer, Website Coordinator

Average number of hits on the web page per year.

100

Aqua-aerobic strength improvement classes are provided as part of a range of

All Older people

Coordinator, Manager Olympic Pool

Average attendance at classes. 50


Council partners with the Lower North Shore Domestic Violence Committee on joint projects, including an annual “16 Days of Activism to Stop Violence Against Women” event. (P)

All Women Social Planner Lower North Shore Domestic Violence Committee

Number of joint events delivered per year.

Percentage of attendees surveyed who feel more informed about domestic violence as a result of the events.

1

75



in the delivery of the “Love Bites” project about healthy relationships, and delivers

Yr 1 Young people Arts Officer, Social Planner, Youth Services

Local schools, Lower North Shore Domestic Violence Committee held for young people.

Percentage of young people surveyed who feel more informed about relationships

301

75

Council partners with the Lower North Shore Youth Interagency on joint projects, including an internet safety forum. (P)

All Young people Youth Services Officer, Lower North Shore Youth Interagency

Number of joint projects delivered per year

Percentage of attendees surveyed who feel more informed about internet safety as a result of the forum.

1 75

Council distributes the Department of Ageing

Protocol for Responding to Abuse of Older People” and promotes it on the NSC website. (I)

All Older peopleOfficer, Community Information Officer, Website Coordinator

Department of Ageing Disability

Total number of local service providers utilising the protocol.


6

100

Council supports the production and

provides information on the Council website. (I)

All Women Graphic Designer, Social Planner, Website Coordinator

Lower North Shore Domestic Violence Committee

Total number of brochures distributed.


2,000

100

Local counselling services are promoted through the Planet X youth centre to young people experiencing abuse. (P)

All Young people Youth Services Officer, days within which enquiries are responded to.

1


Council participates in the “Safe Places” program. (I)

All Gay, lesbian, bi-sexual and trans-gender

Social Planner ACON, community centres

Average number of Council facilities participating in the program per year.

5

Council holds an Anti-discrimination Yr 4 AllOfficer, Social Planner

Anti-Discrimination Board of NSW Percentage of attendees surveyed

who feel more informed about reporting discrimination as

175

Council holds a “Managing for Access” All People with disabilities Safety Committee, Aged

Deaf Society NSW, Guide Dogs NSW/ACT, Side by Side Advocacy

Total number of projects delivered per year.

Percentage of attendees surveyed who feel more informed about reporting discrimination as

1 75

Council buildings are made accessible. (P) All AllSafety Committee,

Officer, Infrastructure Maintenance Manager

Number of Council buildings and facilities audited per year.

2

Information about accessible paths of travel is provided on the Council website. (I)

All People with disabilities Safety Committee, Aged


100

Community safety (cont.)


Objectives

lessen its effects.




Key statistics

of all households in North Sydney in 2006. A

lone persons aged over 65 years. (2006 Census, Australian Bureau of Statistics).

or older living in the North Shore and Ryde,

people within one hour’s travel of their home that they can depend or feel very close to (other than members of their own family). (Cardiovascular



North Sydney local government area had fully completed the course of vaccinations for 0-4years. (Australian Childhood Immunisation Register

This issue relates to personal health, including mental and physical health. The

can play a role, for example by strengthening the social bonds in our community and developing an environment that encourages healthier lifestyles.

is social isolation. Social isolation includes both social and emotional isolation. That is, isolation arising from the level of contact a person has with the community, and isolation arising from more subjective feelings, such as loneliness.

The consultation results point to various contributing factors in North Sydney, including:

Social isolation can in turn have a significant influence on a person’s mental and physical wellbeing. In some cases, it may also lead to hoarding or excessive collecting, and poor living conditions.

Another area where Council and its partners can play a role is stress reduction.

identifies that the majority of the population experience low psychological distress.

exam pressures. Whereas, a small minority experience higher levels of distress, that may be caused by anxiety disorders. Anxiety disorders are a group of illnesses characterised by persistent feelings of extreme discomfort and tension, with the

With regard to physical health, good nutrition and exercise are important in

heart disease. They are particularly important in early life, as obese children have

problems. While North Sydney does not have the same levels of obesity as other local government areas, the consultation results emphasise the need for access to

open spaces.

Although early childhood health problems are not identified as a priority in the consultation results, this may be because Council is already active in this area. It is important to continue vaccination as a means of preventing and reducing the impact of serious illness in the future. Vaccination protects the wider community,

spread widely enough to cause an epidemic.

Health and wellbeing


Health and wellbeing (cont.)


service providers to identify the causes of

action to lessen its effects.

Council participates in a pilot program of activities to build community engagement

improvements, producing and distributing

activities in the community centre. (I)

All Culturally and linguistically diverse, Older people, People with disabilities, Women

Officer, Community Development Manager, Community Information Officer

Greenway Interagency, NSW Department

Number of Greenway buildings and facilities audited per year.

Total number of information

Average number of service providers operating in the community centre per year.

2

400

4

Council funds the “Community Transport” and “Easy Rider” services. (P)

All Older people, People with disabilities

Community Development Manager

Lower North Shore Community Transport

Total number of Community Transport trips per year.

Total number of Easy Rider trips per year.

15,000

2,500

Service” to residents with limited mobility, (including the distribution of local arts and cultural information). (P)


Coordinator, Manager Library Services

Average number of days the

Average number of clients visited per month.

which a client is visited.

3

100

4

Council produces and distributes “Dealing With Domestic Squalor Information

according to the agreed protocols. (I)


OfficerNorthern Sydney Regional Social Isolation days within which enquiries

are responded to.

Percentage of incidents responded to according to the agreed protocols.

1

100

Council produces and distributes a “Community Directory” (in English and

provides information on the Council website and updates the LINCS directory. (I)

All AllOfficer, Community Information Officer, Customer Service Officers

Community centres, Precincts

Total number of information resources distributed.


Average number of LINCS entries updated per year.

2,500

100

400

Council delivers the “Creating Wellbeing” program, including pottery


Arts Officer Community centres Number of sessions held per year.

Average number of attendees at each session.

10

5

Council delivers an annual community arts event as a part of a range of

All Older people

Coordinator, Arts Officer, Cultural Projects Officer

Number of events held per year.

Average number of attendees per year.

1

200



Council holds an annual All Culturally and linguistically diverse

Social Planner, Senior Librarian Collection Development

Community Settlement Service Scheme



1

50

Council supports and provides accommodation for the “Men’s Shed”. (P)


Number of days the Men’s 3

Council supports and provides accommodation for “Neutral Bay Seniors”. (P)


Number of days Neutral Bay 5

Council participates in the implementation of the Northern Sydney Aboriginal Social Plan. (P)

All Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander

Community Development Manager, Social Planner

Northern Sydney Aboriginal Social Plan Funding Group

Number of joint projects delivered per year.

2

Council hosts an annual “Carers Forum”. (I) All All Centacare Disability Services



1

50

Council provides accommodation for playgroups. (P)

All Children, Women

Children Services Resource Officer, Community Development Manager

Total number of play groups operating.

4

Council provides accommodation for a social group for young GLBT people. (I)

All Gay, lesbian, bi-sexual and trans-gender

Manager Library Services, Social Planner

Twenty 10 Average number of meetings held per year.

20

Council contributes to the planning processes All Older people, People with disabilities

OfficerNorthern Sydney

Reference Group

Number of recommendations forwarded and included in the

2

Council partners with the Northern All Older people, People with disabilities

OfficerNorthern Sydney Regional Social Isolation

Number of joint projects delivered per year.

1

Council participates in the “Guringai Festival”. (P)

All Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander

Coordinator, Arts Officer, Cultural Projects Officer, Manager Library Services

Guringai Festival Committee

Number of events held per year


1

75

Council holds an annual “Carnivale” event. (P). All AllCoordinator, Arts Officer, Cultural Projects Officer



1

100

Council holds the “Community Carols”. (P) All ChildrenCoordinator, Arts Officer, Cultural Projects Officer



1

2,000





Council holds an annual “Mental All AllOfficer, Manager Library Services


Percentage of attendees surveyed who feel more informed about mental health as a result of the events.

1

75

Council supports and provides accommodation for the development of the “Wellbeing

All People with disabilities Officer, Community

Development Manager, Director Community

CentreTotal number of services operating. 3

Council supports and promotes All Children, Women

Children Services Resource Officer, Community Information Officer, Website Coordinator

Number of programs delivered in the LGA per year.

1

Council participates in a CALD All Culturally and linguistically diverse

Social Planner Lower North Shore Total number of events held.

Percentage of attendees surveyed who feel more informed about finance

1

75

Council delivers a program of public art to enhance community wellbeing. (P)

All AllCoordinator, Arts Officer, Cultural Projects Officer, Director, Open Space and Environmental Services

Number of permanent public 1

Council provides accommodation for Relationships Australia counselling services. (P)

All All Community Development Manager

Total number of services operating.

Average number of relationship

1

4

Council partners with Lower North Shore All Children, Women

Community Development Manager, Social Planner

Lower North Shore Number of joint projects delivered per year.

1

guides and “What’s On” brochures (in English and 3 other languages). (I)

All AllCoordinator, Arts Officer, Cultural Projects Officer, Bushcare Officer, Traffic Engineer

Number of information resources distributed per year.

2,000


and playgrounds, and promotes them through the “Recreation Directory”. (I)

All All Recreation Planner Total number of brochures distributed.

1,000




continues to offer a healthy options menu. (I)All All Social Planner Percentage of healthy food provided

during summer months.60

Council participates in healthy eating projects for children and CALD women at the Community Garden at the former Coal Loader site. (I)

Yr 1 Children, Culturally and linguistically diverse, Women

Arts Officer, Social Planner, Sustainability Education Officer

Local schools, Total number of sessions held.

Total number of participants.

16

40

Council holds the “Children’s Festival” including health related stalls and information. (P)

All ChildrenCoordinator, Arts Officer, Cultural Projects Officer


Average number of attendees.

1

2,000

Council provides a range of recreational opportunities for all ages, including the

Yr 1 Young peopleCommunity Services, Director Open Space

Services, Youth Services

Number of new recreational facilities built.

1


Council delivers a free child immunisation service. (P)

All Children, Women

Children Services Resource Officer

Number of clinics held per year.

Average number of children immunised at each clinic.

12

40

Council provides accommodation for

Cremorne and Crows Nest. (P)

All Children, Women


Total number of services operating. 2

Council supports the Munch and Move program at preschools and long day care centres. (I)

All Children, Women


Total number of services participating.

10



Affordable housing and provision for older people and

principle planning instrument - the North Sydney Local Environmental Plan (NSLEP) 2001. It permits for example, boarding houses in the Residential B,

people with disabilities in the Residential A2, B, C,

Control Plan (NSDCP) 2002 sets the target of

housing (applicable with the gazettal of the relevant

It provides detailed guidelines for boarding houses

residential units be adaptable housing (Sections 6.1 and 7.1). Furthermore, the North Sydney Residential Development Strategy (NSRDS) 2008, establishes

over the next 25 years including appropriate location, type and extent of new development to meet the growing needs of the population.

Indeed, North Sydney Council has a long-standing commitment to affordable housing that has included research and advocacy, partnerships with local social housing providers, and redeployment of its own

been to levy developers for the loss of affordable bed spaces under Section 94 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (NSW).

Over the years, through contribution of land, partnerships with State Government authorities and funds levied, Council has been able to partially or fully own 26 properties comprised of 41 multi-unit dwellings and houses, and two boarding houses that are currently used for affordable housing. These properties include a multi-unit nursing home and two services offering emergency accommodation to

contribution has been limited to partnerships and levies, and later, voluntary contributions), only 15 bed spaces have been replaced, compared with a target of 30. In light of this, Council commissioned a

methods of meeting local housing need.

Objectives

the LGA are supported in accessing affordable accommodation.


medium term housing.


Key statistics

of Statistics).

Census, Australian Bureau of Statistics).

Sydney in 2008. (North Sydney Aged Care Facilities, North Sydney Council).

in 2006 are classified as having dwellings “not stated”. This is not necessarily the homeless figure for the period, but can be seen as a good indicator. (2006 Census, Australian Bureau of Statistics).

This issue relates to access to safe and affordable housing. In comparison to other Sydney LGA’s, North Sydney has relatively high land prices. These have an impact on housing affordability and the provision of particular services, such as accommodation for older people and the homeless.

The consultation results suggest that both low and middle income earners are struggling to live in North Sydney. This in turn could potentially influence the different socio-economic groups that live in the area, and could result in a loss of

With regard to accommodation for older people, there are not enough nursing beds to meet demand. The Federal Government allocates beds according to the

Government is not obliged to allocate this proportion of beds inside the North Sydney LGA itself. The 2006 Census states that there were 4,880 people aged 70 years and over in North Sydney in 2006. At the time of writing, there were 378 nursing home beds (more than 100 beds below the standard) with further closures planned. Consequently, frail older people who are unable to remain in their own homes or access local services face the prospect of moving to nursing homes outside North Sydney, potentially long distances away from friends and family.

With regard to accommodation for the homeless, there are a few medium term accommodation options for young people and women with children, including:

in Neutral Bay, a 4 bed medium-term shared housing in Crows Nest, and 4

shared houses in Crows Nest, Willoughby and Chatswood each with 3 beds,

escaping domestic violence.

homeless people are thought to be young males, and women and children escaping domestic violence. Males account for the majority of rough sleepers, for example

With regard to those sleeping rough, Council and the Police are obliged under legislation not “move them on”, something which is not always well understood by

support the homeless.

Housing


Housing (cont.)


a) Low and medium

to the LGA are supported in accessing affordable accommodation.

Council utilises State Government approved mechanisms to fund provision of

All Culturally and linguistically diverse, Older people, People with disabilities, Women

Officer, Director Library NSW Department

North Shore

Total number of properties provided. 26

Council and State Government controls allow for affordable housing. (P)

All All Director Planning and Development, Manager Strategic Planning

NSW Department of Planning

Percentage of compliant developments approved under development controls.

100

Needs Study. (I)Yr 1 All

Officer, Director Library North Shore 1

Needs Study are implemented. (I)All All

Officer, Director Library North Shore Number of strategies

implemented per year.1


Council’s controls allow for the appropriate development and siting of aged care facilities. (I)


Director Planning and Development, Manager Strategic Planning


100



access to emergency and medium term housing.

the homeless where possible. (P)

All AllOfficer

City of Sydney Council

Centre, North Shore

NSW Department

which enquiries are responded to.1

Council responds to enquiries from the community to manage the presence of homeless persons with regard to Council’s legal obligations and care for their health and safety. (P)

All AllOfficer,

Community Services

which enquiries are responded to.1


new residential units are adaptable. (I)All Older people,

People with disabilities

Director Planning and Development, Manager Strategic Planning


100

Housing (cont.)


by Council through the community centres. Areas for improvement relate to the difficulty of attracting volunteers (including volunteer board members),

to support new programs.

There are 19 educational institutions in North Sydney. The student population increased by 479

three public primary schools), to reach 18,282. The students, the majority of which live outside North Sydney, may face a number of pressures including exam stress and family problems. Some students from

may also experience specific challenges in settling in Australia.

The community’s desire to pursue individual development has been identified through increasing attendances at Stanton Library, community centre adult education courses, North Sydney Olympic Pool, and in art and craft specific opportunities delivered, for example through the Garden competition,

North Sydney Art Prize, Young Writers Award, Live Poets, Actors Forum and other Council sponsored programs.

Objectives

affordable childcare.


d) Community groups are recognised and supported.

e) Students are recognised and supported

f ) Individual development is supported.

Key statistics

resident in North Sydney in 2006, 5,785 cared for children of their own. 3,114 were women


Australia. The top 10 countries of birth in 2006

India, Malaysia and Germany. (2006 Census, Australian Bureau of Statistics).

than English in 2006 were Cantonese, Japanese, Mandarin, Spanish, French, German, Italian,

Australian Bureau of Statistics).

resident in North Sydney in 2006, 9,290

organisation or group. (2006 Census, Australian Bureau of Statistics).

community groups operating in North Sydney in 2008. This includes interest groups, support groups and playgroups. (LINCS Database).

North Sydney in 2007 drawing a total student population of 18,282 students. (Educational Institutions in North Sydney 2007, North Sydney Council).

Sydney in 2006, 16,526 were engaged in either part or full-time education, including pre-schools to university or other tertiary institutions. (2006 Census, Australian Bureau of Statistics).

This issue relates to the factors affecting people’s ability to reach their full potential, whether they are

other Sydney local government areas, North Sydney has high levels of income and employment. It also has a strong tradition of volunteering and many

areas where Council and its partners could provide further support.

Greater numbers of men and women are now choosing to have children later in life, after they have established their careers. For those considering returning to the

have multiplied in North Sydney recently, yet there are still long waiting lists for care of 0-2 years, pre-schools and occasional care places. Council has made use of its Section 94 Plan (levies on development) to help provide childcare facilities, (as well as library and community centre spaces). In childcare however, these funds have been insufficient to meet demand.

The majority of migrants or new arrivals in North

refugees or humanitarian migrants, or people who have moved to Australia to be with their family. Nevertheless, some of these, especially those from

countries, face significant structural and individual barriers to finding relevant employment and often

not utilised.

Structural barriers may include:

Individual barriers may include:

With regard to volunteering, the consultation results highlight the important contribution that volunteers

volunteers, we mean people who provide a service through a formal organisation, by choice, without remuneration. The benefits of volunteering may

sometimes leads to the volunteer gaining formal education or employment. Council has for many years supported volunteers by funding independent community centres and empowering the community through activities such as the Precincts, Bushcare and Streets Alive.

of awareness about volunteering opportunities, and a reduction in the number of volunteers. Reasons for the decline may include busy lifestyles, cultural

it is difficult to get a full picture, because questions about volunteering were included in the 2006 Census for the first time.

The responsibility for coordinating volunteers in New South Wales lies with the not-for-profit organisation The Centre For Volunteering. There is no single body responsible for coordinating volunteers at a local level. Funding for volunteer co-ordination and development comes from a variety of sources, including the State

services, which provide assistance to older people and people with disabilities, attract a large proportion of

services, and non-government organisations about future volunteer coordination are promising.

With regard to community groups, the consultation and research results indicate a high degree of satisfaction with the opportunities provided to community groups

Working, learning and volunteering


Working, learning and volunteering (cont.)


supported in accessing affordable childcare.

Council provides accommodation for a range of community based childcare providers. (P)

All Children, Women

Children Services Resource Officer, Community Development Manager.

Total number of services operating. 4

Council auspices the “Family Day Care” program. (P)

All Children, Women

Family Day Care Supervisor

Average number of children participating.

100

Council provides a “Vacation Care” program. (P)

All Children, Women

Community Development Manager

Number of programs provided per year.

Number of participating centres

4

3

of childcare centres is developed. (I)Yr 2 Children,

WomenChildren Services Resource Officer, Community Development Manager

1

Council produces and distributes “Children Services Directory” and provides information on the Council website. (I)

All Children, Women

Community Information Officer, Website Coordinator



2,000

100

b) Migrants are supported Council participates in a “Migrant Employment Expo”. (I)

Yr 1 Culturally and linguistically diverse

Social PlannerCrows Nest Centre,

Total number of events held.

Percentage of attendees surveyed who feel the events assisted

2

75


Council provides volunteering opportunities, including the Bush Care and Streets Alive programs. (P)

All All Bushcare Officer, Environmental Levy C-oordinator

Total number of volunteers participating per year.

300

Council produces and distributes a community involvement brochure and provides information on the Council website. (I)

Yr 2 All Community Engagement Coordinator, Community Information Officer, Website Coordinator



1,000

100



Council holds the annual “Volunteers Evening”. (P)

All All Manager Library Services Number of events held per year.

Average number of attendees at the events.

1

50

Council holds the annual “Australia Day Awards”. (P)

All AllCoordinator, Arts Officer, Cultural Projects Officer


Average number of attendees at the Awards.

1

50

d) Community groups are recognised and supported. awareness of the Precincts system. (I)

Yr 1 All Community Engagement Coordinator

Precincts Percentage increase in Precinct participation per year.

5

Council holds a forum for community groups Yr 3 All Community Development Manager, Community Information Officer, Social Planner

Local community groups Total number of forums held.

Percentage of attendees surveyed

issues as a result of the forum.

1

75

Council’s “Donations” program supports local community groups. (P)

All All Administration Officer, Community Development Manager

Number of arts and cultural groups or sporting associated groups funded per year.

5

Council’s “Donations” program supports local arts and cultural groups and sporting associations. (P)

All All Administration Officer, Community Development Manager

Number of community groups funded per year.

5

e) Students are recognised and supported.

Issues for students are addressed through outreach activities into schools. (P)

Yr 2 Young people Youth Services Officer, Total number of events held.

Percentage of attendees surveyed who feel more supported as a result of the activities.

2

75

Issues for disengaged young people are addressed through Planet X’s program of activities. (P)

All Young people Youth Services Officer, Number of hours Planet 28

Council participates in a CALD Youth event. (I) Yr 1 Culturally and linguistically diverse, Young people

Social Planner, Youth Services Officer,

Lower North Shore Total number of events held.

Percentage of attendees surveyed who have benefited as a result of the event.

1

75




Council sponsors a significant annual cultural program for young people. (P)

All Young peopleCoordinator, Arts Officer, Cultural Projects Officer

Number of events held per year. 1

f) Individual development is supported.

Council provides a public library service supporting lifelong learning. (P)

All All Director Library and Community Services, Manager Library Services

Number of hours Stanton

The average number of visitors per day.

71

1,000

Council holds the North Sydney Art Prize. (P) All AllCoordinator, Arts Officer, Cultural Projects Officer


Average number of participants per year.

1

170

Council holds the Young Writers Award. (P) All Young peopleCoordinator, Arts Officer, Cultural Projects Officer


Average number of participants per year.

1

400

Council supports opportunities for individual involvement in literature, music and performing arts. (I)

All AllCoordinator, Arts Officer, Cultural Projects Officer

Number of programs supported per year.

10



the support of the following community groups and service providers during the development of this plan:

We apologise to any community groups or service providers that may have been omitted from this list.

2001 Census, Australian Bureau of Statistics.

2006 Census, Australian Bureau of Statistics.

2020 Vision Strategic Plan, North Sydney Council.

A Social Plan for North Sydney 2004-2007, North Sydney Council.

Educational Institutions in North Sydney 2007, North Sydney Council.

Australian Bureau of Statistics.

North Sydney Aged Care Facilities, North Sydney Council.

North Sydney Development Control Plan 2002, North Sydney Council.

North Sydney Local Environmental Plan 2001, North Sydney Council.

North Sydney Residential Development Strategy 2008, North Sydney Council.

NSW Regional Statistics 2007, Australian Bureau of Statistics.

Selected Community Centres Census and Customer Satisfaction Survey 2007, North Sydney Council.

Social and Community Planning and Reporting Manual, NSW Department of Local Government.

Social and Community Planning and Reporting Guidelines, NSW Department of Local Government.

Bibliography Acknowledgements


(i) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander

the Northern Sydney Aboriginal Social Plan.

(ii) Children

parenting programs.

children and CALD women at the Community Garden at the former Coal Loader site.

health related stalls and information.

service.

Crows Nest.

at preschools and long day care centres. (I)

community based childcare providers.

program.

childcare centres is developed.

Services Directory” and provides information on the Council website.

(iii) Culturally and linguistically diverse

activities to build community engagement


in the community centre.


Expo”.

(iv) Gay, lesbian, bi-sexual and transgender

group for young GLBT people.

(v) Older People

falls prevention programs, including on the Council website.

provided as part of a range of annual “Seniors

Protocol for Responding to Abuse of Older People” and promotes it on the NSC website.




“Easy Rider” services.

to residents with limited mobility, (including the distribution of local arts and cultural information).

Appendix 1: Initiatives by target groups


service.

Crows Nest.

at preschools and long day care centres. (I)

community based childcare providers.

program.

childcare centres is developed.

Services Directory” and provides information on the Council website.

(viii) Young people

and Council through the Liquor Accord and appropriate use of Place of Public Entertainment (POPE) licenses.

through the Planet X youth centre.

event held.

the delivery of the “Love Bites” project about

for local young people.

Youth Interagency on joint projects, including an internet safety forum.

the Planet X youth centre to young people experiencing abuse.

opportunities for all ages, including the

outreach activities into schools.

through Planet X’s program of activities.

program for young people.

Please note: initiatives which are aimed at “All” target groups have not been included in this list.

responds to incidents according to the agreed protocols.

program, including pottery and camera

for the “Men’s Shed”.

for “Neutral Bay Seniors".

on joint projects.

development and siting of aged care facilities.

residential units are adaptable.

(vi) People with disabilities

provided on the Council website.




“Easy Rider” services.

to residents with limited mobility, (including the distribution of local arts and cultural information).

responds to incidents according to the agreed protocols.

program, including pottery and camera

for the “Men’s Shed”.

for “Neutral Bay Seniors".

on joint projects.

for the development of the “Wellbeing Centre”

development and siting of aged care facilities.

residential units are adaptable.

(vii) Women

Domestic Violence Committee on joint projects, including an annual “16 Days of Activism to Stop Violence Against Women” event.

English and Japanese), and provides information on the Council website.




playgroups.

parenting programs.



Appendix 2: Initiatives by Management Plan

Principle activity/initiative Year(s) Section(s) in the Management Plan 2008/09-2010/11

Road safety action plan developed to identify All 6.4

RTA lobbied on infrastructure improvements, such as crossings, All 3.1

alternative means of transport promoted. (I)Yr 3 6.4

Licensed premises controlled by licensees, Police and Council through the Liquor Accord and appropriate use of Place of Public Entertainment (POPE) licenses. (P)

All 6.4

Young people’s drug and alcohol issues managed through the Planet X youth centre. (P)

All 7.3

All 7.3

Major events managed according to approved event plans. (P) All 6.4

Council manages alcohol free zones and alcohol prohibited areas. (P) All 6.4

Footpaths and fences are maintained to an agreed standard. (P) All 4.6

prevention programs, including on the Council website. (I)All 6.4

Aqua-aerobic strength improvement classes are provided as All 6.2

Council partners with the Lower North Shore Domestic Violence Committee on joint projects, including an annual “16 Days of Activism to Stop Violence Against Women” event. (P)

All 6.4

Community safetyPrinciple activity/initiative Year(s) Section(s) in the

Management Plan 2008/09-2010/11

of the “Love Bites” project about healthy relationships, Yr 1 6.4

Council partners with the Lower North Shore Youth Interagency on joint projects, including an internet safety forum. (P)

All 7.3

Council distributes the Department of Ageing Disability and

of Older People” and promotes it on the NSC website. (I)

All 7.3

Council supports the production and distribution of “Domestic

and provides information on the Council website. (I)

All 6.4

Local counseling services are promoted through the Planet X youth centre to young people experiencing abuse. (P)

All 7.3

Council participates in the “Safe Places” program. (I) All 7.2

for staff and service providers. (I)Yr 4 7.2

All 7.2

Council buildings are made accessible. (P) All 7.2

Information about accessible paths of travel is provided on the Council website. (I)

All 7.2



Council participates in a pilot program of activities to build

access improvements, producing and distributing information

All 6.4

Council funds the “Community Transport” and “Easy Rider” services. (P)

All 3.4

with limited mobility, (including the distribution of local arts and cultural information). (P)

All 6.6

Council produces and distributes “Dealing With

incidents according to the agreed protocols. (I)

All 7.3

Council produces and distributes a “Community Directory” (in English and 3 other languages) and a

website and updates the LINCS directory. (I)

All 6.4

Council delivers the “Creating Wellbeing” program, All 6.2

Council delivers an annual community arts event as All 6.2

All 6.3

Council supports and provides accommodation for the “Men’s Shed”. (P)

All 7.3

Council supports and provides accommodation for “Neutral Bay Seniors”. (P)

All 7.3

Council participates in the implementation of the Northern Sydney Aboriginal Social Plan. (P)

All 6.3

Council hosts an annual “Carers Forum”. (I) All 7.2

Council provides accommodation for playgroups. (P) All 7.4

Council provides accommodation for a social group for young GLBT people. (I)

All 7.2

Council contributes to the planning processes of All 7.3

All 7.3

Health and WellbeingPrinciple activity/initiative Year(s) Section(s) in the


Council participates in the “Guringai Festival”. (P) All 6.2

Council holds an annual “Carnivale” event. (P). All 6.2

Council holds the “Community Carols”. (P) All 6.2

All 7.3

Council supports and provides accommodation for the All 7.3

All 7.4

Yr 2 6.3

Council delivers a program of public art to enhance community wellbeing. (P)

All 4.4

Council provides accommodation for Relationships Australia counselling services. (P)

All 7.3

Council partners with Lower North Shore Families All 7.4

On” brochures (in English and 3 other languages). (I)All 6.2

promotes them through the “Recreation Directory”. (I)All 5.4

continues to offer a healthy options menu. (I)All 7.3

Council participates in healthy eating projects for children and CALD women at the Community Garden at the former Coal Loader site. (I)

Yr 1 7.3

Council holds the “Children’s Festival” including health related stalls and information. (P)

All 7.4

Council provides a range of recreational opportunities for all Yr 1 7.3

Council delivers a free child immunisation service. (P) All 7.4

Council provides accommodation for Early Childhood All 7.4

Council supports the Munch and Move program at preschools and long day care centres. (I)

All 7.4



Council utilises State Government approved mechanisms All 7.2

Council and State Government controls allow for affordable housing. (P)

All 7.2

Yr 1 7.2

All 7.2

Council’s controls allow for the appropriate development and siting of aged care facilities. (I)

All 2.1

and locate the homeless where possible. (P)

All 7.2

Council responds to enquiries from the community to manage the presence of homeless persons with regard to Council’s legal obligations and care for their health and safety. (P)

All 7.2

residential units are adaptable. (I)All 2.1

HousingPrinciple activity/initiative Year(s) Section(s) in the


Council provides accommodation for a range of community based childcare providers. (P)

All 7.4

Council auspices the “Family Day Care” program. (P) All 7.4

Council provides a “Vacation Care” program. (P) All 7.4

childcare centres is developed. (I)Yr 2 7.4

Council produces and distributes “Children Services Directory” and provides information on the Council website. (I)

All 6.4

Council participates in a “Migrant Employment Expo”. (I) Yr 1 6.3

Council provides volunteering opportunities, including the Bush Care and Streets Alive programs. (P)

All

Council produces and distributes a community involvement brochure and provides information on the Council website. (I)

Yr 2 6.4

Council holds the annual “Volunteers Evening”. (P) All 6.6

Council holds the annual “Australia Day Awards”. (P) All 6.2

awareness of the Precincts system. (I)Yr 1 6.1

Working, learning & volunteering



Council holds a forum for community groups to Yr 3 7.3

Council’s “Donations” program supports local community groups. (P) All 7.3

Council’s “Donations” program supports local arts and cultural groups and sporting associations. (P)

All 6.2

Issues for students are addressed through outreach activities into schools. (P)

Yr 2 7.3

Issues for disengaged young people are addressed through Planet X’s program of activities. (P)

All 7.3

Council participates in a CALD Youth event. (I) Yr 1 6.3

Council sponsors a significant annual cultural program for young people. (P)

All 6.2

Council provides a public library service supporting lifelong learning. (P)

All 6.6

Council holds the North Sydney Art Prize. (P) All 6.2

Council holds the Young Writers Award. (P) All 6.6

Council supports opportunities for individual involvement in literature, music and performing arts. (I)

All 6.2

(i) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders

The size of this group remained stable between


North Sydney that had completed a non-school

these 21 had obtained bachelor degrees, three advanced diplomas or diplomas, three certificate level nfd’s, and 14 certificate level III and IV’s. (2006 Census, Australian Bureau of Statistics.)

Indigenous people in North Sydney in the

Bureau of Statistics.)

Indigenous people in North Sydney in the

of Statistics.)

Indigenous people in North Sydney in the highest housing loan repayment category of

Census, Australian Bureau of Statistics.)

North Sydney participating in the labour force

Bureau of Statistics.)

(2006 Census, Australian Bureau of Statistics.)

(ii) Children

between 2001 and 2006. (2001 and 2006 Census, Australian Bureau of Statistics).

This is significantly lower than Greater Sydney


North Sydney local government area had fully completed the course of vaccinations for 0-4years. (Australian Childhood Immunisation Register

North Sydney in 2007 (3 public and 7 private)

of which are non-residents. (Educational Institutions in North Sydney 2007, North Sydney Council).

(iii) Older people

and 2006. (2006 Census, Australian Bureau of Statistics).

and 2006. (2006 Census, Australian Bureau of Statistics).

and over in North Sydney in 2006 was 1,072


Sydney in 2008. (North Sydney Aged Care Facilities, North Sydney Council).

Appendix 3: Statistics by target group



of all households in North Sydney in 2006. A

lone persons aged over 65 years. (2006 Census, Australian Bureau of Statistics).

(iv) People from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds


Malaysia and Germany. Since 2001 there has been a relative increase in persons born in China, and Malaysia, but a decrease in persons born in Ireland. (2001 and 2006 Census, Australian Bureau of Statistics).

than English in 2006 were Cantonese, Japanese,

(2001 and 2006 Census, Australian Bureau of Statistics).

(v) People with disabilities

with core activities. This is marginally lower than

(2006 Census, Australian Bureau of Statistics).

reported having a long-term mental or

A Snapshot 2204-2005, Australian Bureau of Statistics).

(vi) Women

usually resident in North Sydney. (2006 Census, Australian Bureau of Statistics).

in North Sydney in 2007. (Local Government

Research NSW).

resident in North Sydney in 2006 who cared

years or above. (2006 Census, Australian Bureau of Statistics).

(vii) Young people

This is significantly lower than Greater Sydney


This is marginally lower than Greater Sydney


private) and 1 TAFE institution in North Sydney in 2007, providing junior secondary and senior

which are non-residents. There were a further 4 tertiary institutions providing tertiary education to 6,023 students. (Educational Institutions in North Sydney 2007, North Sydney Council).

levels for short-term harm. These rates are almost

levels for short-term harm. (Young Australians:

The process

The plan was completed on time with unanimous Council support, and fully funded through successive Management Plans with the exception of a large-

Consultations were broad ranging and allowed input in a variety of formats, although little use was made of the publicly issued CD and large print discussion paper, with the most prominent of the sight and hearing impaired community members having already contributed through focus groups. Provision of childcare for carers involved in consultations was appreciated. Good support was received from all Council Divisions under the leadership of the General Manager.

The document

The published plan, a stripped down version compared to previous social plans, was well received by the community and remains an important Council resource. While essential statistical information at a summary level was included, detailed tables per target group that appeared in previous plans were excluded, and instead reference was made to core Australian Bureau of Statistics documents, as well as to Council produced information made available through its website. This presentation of statistical information in the printed 2004-7 Plan is considered to have met the community need. On the other hand the absence of a summary of the discussion paper is now felt to have lessened the context for the issues

indicators and targets would also have improved the document. Finally, a strength of the 2004/7 plan is seen to be the move away from a plan drafted around target groups and instead focused on Issues. This removed duplication and allowed for a more creative development of strategies.

The strategies

A final report was produced at the end of the plan’s

Of 79 strategies set out in the Plan (including two overarching ones - Indigenous affairs and Cultural

75 were completed or classified as ongoing activities. Four strategies were uncompleted.

Council officers to gather further information about the strategies, and to inform the development of the new plan. A summary of the interview results is provided below.

(i) What characterised the successful strategies?

Library and community centres.

diverse communities.

threatening environment.

and State Government Departments.

addressed significant, not marginal issues - in particular social isolation and mental health.

Appendix 4: Evaluation of A Social Plan for North Sydney 2004-2007

A Social Plan for North Sydney56

(ii) What variations to strategies were adopted through the life of the plan?

people living alone, over retirement village

who were undergoing a period of great change (building renewal, business re-engineering, board and volunteer recruitment difficulties) and experiencing the accompanying financial pressures.

were adjusted as other levels of Government reduced grants.

years due to impact of security issues in 2007.

(iii) What were the unsuccessful strategies?

withdrawal of State Government funding. Council, at the highest level, participated in

successful. Council has redirected its service support to a general Wellness Centre at the same community facility. To be retained in new plan? No

While the need for this service, a proposed Council contribution to affordable childcare, was amended over the life of the Plan to a

with design and construction cost estimates was completed. It was not possible to fund the facility owing to declining Section 94 contributions. Consequently the proposal has been indefinitely

model and zoning issues was also suspended. To be retained in new plan? No.

Council advises this program of grants no longer supported. Need still identified locally. Potential to lever accommodation in curator’s quarters

plan? Yes

community centres, with no paid staff, and the

desired. An increase in art programming in the adjacent spaces has emphasised the need for the plan. To be retained in new plan? Yes

(iv) In hindsight what improvements would you have made to the plan?

(v) Are there major ongoing issues that the evaluation of the plan points to?

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TAGALOG Kung hindi ninyo naiintindihan ang impormasyong ito, mangyari lamang na tumawag sa Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) sa 13 14 50, at hilingin sa interpreter ng inyong wika na tawagan ang North Sydney Council sa (02) 9936 8100. Ito ay isang libreng serbisyo.

TRADITIONAL CHINESE

13 14 50 Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) (02) 9936 8100 North Sydney Council

A Social Plan for North Sydney

Credits for images on this cover

Back to front from left to right:

Rock photo Paul Vonwiller

Self Portrait Kevin Meagher

Self Portrait Anna Canning

Sunrise at Margarets Margaret Muir

Tree Christine Earnshaw

North Sydney collage Shirley Bevan

Harbour Bridge Paul Vonwiller

A Social Plan for North Sydney

North Sydney Council200 Miller Street North Sydney NSW 2060

t: 02 9936 8100

A Social Plan for North Sydney · A Social Plan for North Sydney 1 ... Initiatives are in place to...

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Transcript of A Social Plan for North Sydney · A Social Plan for North Sydney 1 ... Initiatives are in place to...