This page lists archived circulars in order by date.
2021
| Council circular | Summary | Issue date |
|---|---|---|
| 21-01 – Transitioning back to in-person council and committee meetings and consultation on proposed changes allowing remote attendance at meetings (PDF, 89 KB) | The “prescribed period” for the purposes of section 747A of the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act) during which the requirement for councillors and members of the public to attend meetings is satisfied if the meeting is held in whole or in part remotely using audio visual links, expires on 25 March 2021. | 9/03/2021 |
| 21-02 – Temporary exemption from the requirement for councillors to attend meetings in person (PDF, 95 KB) | The Office of Local Government (OLG) is currently consulting with councils and others on proposed amendments to the Model Code of Meeting Practice for Local Councils in NSW(Model Meeting Code) allowing councillors to attend meetings remotely using audio-visual links. A discussion paper has been issued and submissions are due on 3 May 2021. | 1/04/2021 |
| 21-03 – Additional functionality and improvements to the NSW Companion Animals Register and Pet Registry (PDF, 761 KB) | A second round of improvements and additional functionality for the NSW Companion Animals Register (CAR) will be released on 12 April 2021. | 8/04/2021 |
| 21-04 – Information about Rating 2021-22 (PDF, 199 KB) | The maximum boarding house tariffs for 2021-22 have been determined. | 16/04/2021 |
| 21-05 – Cat management requirements for councils (PDF, 210 KB) | Councils are reminded of their cat management responsibilities and of available companion animal and responsible pet ownership resources. | 23/04/2021 |
| 21-06 – 2021/22 Determination of the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal (PDF, 191 KB) | The Local Government Remuneration Tribunal (the Tribunal) has determined an increase of 2% to mayoral and councillor fees for the 2021-22 financial year, with effect from 1 July 2021. | 12/05/2021 |
| 21-07 – Commencement of Local Government Amendment Act 2021 (PDF, 91 KB) | The Local Government Amendment Act 2021 (Amendment Act) was passed by the NSW Parliament on 13 May 2021 and has come into effect, although some reforms will commence by proclamation, as indicated below. | 27/05/2021 |
| 21-08 – Consultation on draft Model Social Media and Councillor and Staff Interaction Policies and on the development of a Model Media Policy (PDF, 218 KB) | The Office of Local Government (OLG) has issued consultation drafts of a Model Social Media Policy and Model Councillor and Staff Interaction Policy. | 28/05/2021 |
| 21-09 – Crown Lands – Plans of Management – Funding extension (PDF, 83 KB) | On 4 June 2021, an amendment to the Crown Land Management Regulation 2018 was made to provide councils with more time to complete Plans of Management (PoMs) for council-managed Crown reserves. | 7/06/2021 |
| GC-150 – 2021-22 Financial Assistance Grants (FAGs) – advance payment (PDF, 83 KB) | The Commonwealth Minister for Regional Health, Regional Communications and Local Government, the Hon. Mark Coulton MP has announced that the Federal Government will again bring forward the first two instalments of the estimated 2021-22 FAGs. | 9/06/2021 |
| 21-10 – Guidelines for Designated Rehoming Organisations under Section 88B of the Companion Animals Act 1998 (PDF, 83 KB) | The Office of Local Government (OLG) has issued new Guidelines for Designated Rehoming Organisations. | 9/06/2021 |
| 21-11 – Preparation of non-residential rolls (PDF, 79 KB) | The Local Government Act 1993 (the Act) requires council general managers to prepare and confirm the rolls of non-resident owners, occupiers and ratepaying lessees of rateable land in the council’s area (the non-residential rolls). | 10/06/2021 |
| 21-12 – “Electoral matter” and use of council resources prior to local government elections (PDF, 90 KB) | Council officials must not use council resources, property (including intellectual property), and facilities for the purposes of assisting their election campaign or the election campaign of others unless the use is lawfully authorised and proper payment is made where appropriate. | 11/06/2021 |
| 21-13 – Review of general manager and senior staff remuneration (PDF, 79 KB) | The Minister for Local Government has announced a review of general manager and senior staff remuneration. | 21/06/2021 |
| 21-14 – COVID-19 restrictions and council meetings (PDF, 92 KB) | In response to the current Sydney COVID-19 outbreak, the Minister for Health and Medical Research, the Hon. Brad Hazzard MP has issued the Public Health (COVID-19 Temporary Movement and Gathering Restrictions) Order 2021 (the Public Health Order). The Public Health Order took effect from 26 June 2021 and expires on 10 July 2021, unless extended. | 28/06/2021 |
| 21-15 – Introduction of free lifetime registration for rescued pets and increases to companion animal fees for 2021/22 (PDF, 113 KB) | From 1 July 2021, the NSW Government is introducing free lifetime registration for people who adopt a rescue pet from council pounds and animal shelters, and rehoming organisations. | 30/06/2021 |
| 21-16 – Annual Report and Annual Performance Statement Checklists (PDF, 80 KB) | An annual report checklist has been drafted for councils. | 30/06/2021 |
| 21-17 – Council decision-making prior to the September 2021 local government elections (PDF, 79 KB) | Councils are expected to assume a “caretaker” role during election periods to ensure that major decisions are not made which would limit the actions of an incoming council. | 8/07/2021 |
| 21-18 – Calendar of Compliance and Reporting Requirements 2021-22 (PDF, 79 KB) | The Calendar of Compliance and Reporting Requirements for councils and county councils has been updated for the 2021-22 financial year. | 19/07/2021 |
| 21-19 – Joint Organisation Calendar of Compliance and Reporting Requirements 2021-22 (PDF, 79 KB) | The Joint Organisation Calendar of Compliance and Reporting Requirements has been updated for the 2021-22 financial year. | 19/07/2021 |
| 21-20 – Postponement of the local government elections to 4 December 2021 (PDF, 174 KB) | The Minister for Local Government has published an order in the Gazette under section 318C of the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act) postponing all council elections to 4 December 2021. | 25/07/2021 |
| 21-21 – Accounting and Financial Reporting Fundamentals – Information session (PDF, 215 KB) | The Office of Local Government (OLG) has developed a 1-hour information session about the fundamental aspects of accounting and financial reporting. | 6/08/2021 |
| 21-22 – Updated guidance on the appointment and dismissal of senior staff (PDF, 205 KB) | The purpose of this Circular is to provide updated guidance to councils on the requirements of the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act) relating to the appointment and dismissal of senior staff other than the general manager. | 10/08/2021 |
| 21-23 – End of Year Financial Reporting 2020-21 (PDF, 113 KB) | End of year financial reporting information for 2020/21. | 10/08/2021 |
| 21-24 – September 2021 mayoral elections (PDF, 82 KB) | Mayoral elections must be held in September 2021 for mayors elected in September 2019 when their two year-terms expire (see sections 230(1) and 290(1)(b) of the Local Government Act 1993). | 13/08/2021 |
| 21-25 – Job Retention Allowance 2021-22 (PDF, 231 KB) | The Office of Local Government (OLG) has released updated resources that will assist councils to apply for the Council Job Retention Allowance Subsidy for the first quarter 2021-22 (Q1). | 20/08/2021 |
| 21-26 – New risk management and internal audit framework for councils and joint organisations (PDF, 87 KB) | Sections 428A and 428B of the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act) have been commenced. Under section 428A, all councils (including county councils) and joint organisations are required to have an audit risk and improvement committee (ARIC). Councils and joint organisations are permitted under section 428B to enter into arrangements with other councils or joint organisations to share ARICs. | 24/08/2021 |
| 21-27 – Review of the tendering provisions of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 (PDF, 181 KB) | In response to recommendations by the Audit Office, the Office of Local Government (OLG) has undertaken a review of the tendering provisions of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 (the Regulation) to identify possible amendments that would support councils to make better use of technology when tendering and to achieve greater efficiencies. | 2/09/2021 |
| 21-28 – Updated Integrated Planning and Reporting Guidelines and Handbook (PDF, 84 KB) | As notified in Circular 16-30, the NSW Parliament passed amendments to the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act) in the Local Government Amendment (Governance and Planning) Act 2016. | 7/09/2021 |
| 21-29 – Release of the Guideline on the Use and Management of Credit Cards (PDF, 83 KB) | The Office of Local Government (OLG) has developed the Guideline on the Use and Management of Credit Cards (the Guideline) under section 23A of the Local Government Act 1993. | 13/09/2021 |
| 21-30 – Pre-Election Guide for Councils (PDF, 79 KB) | The Office of Local Government (OLG) has prepared a Pre-Election Guide for Councils. | 5/10/2021 |
| 21-31 – Post-Election Guide on key decisions and activities for councils, county councils and joint organisations following the local government elections (PDF, 88 KB) | There are several key decisions and activities that need to occur at the first meetings of councils, county councils and joint organisations following the elections and in the 12 months that follow. | 5/10/2021 |
| 21-32 – Government endorses new rate peg methodology to support growing councils (PDF, 86 KB) | The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) has completed its review of the local government rate peg methodology to include population growth. | 5/10/2021 |
| 21-33 – Compliance with records management provisions and transfer of local government records to the State Archives Collection (PDF, 196 KB) | The Department of Premier and Cabinet (DPC) has issued a circular, C2021-05 Managing Records in NSW Government, providing advice on the making, keeping, and safeguarding of records. | 21/10/2021 |
| 21-34 – Updated guidance on COVID-19 restrictions and council meetings (PDF, 216 KB) | The Minister for Health and Medical Research, the Hon. Brad Hazzard MP, has made the Public Health (COVID-19 General) Order 2021 (the Public Health Order). The Public Health Order took effect from Monday, 11 October 2021 and has since been amended. | 27/10/2021 |
| 21-35 – 2021 Model Code of Meeting Practice for Local Councils in NSW (PDF, 204 KB) | The new Model Meeting Code has been published in the Government Gazette and is expected to be prescribed under the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 (the Regulation) on or before Friday 19 November 2021. The new Model Meeting Code is available on the Office of Local Government’s(OLG) website. | 29/10/2021 |
| 21-36 – Update to the Guidelines for Designated Rehoming Organisations under Section 88B of the Companion Animals Act 1998 (PDF, 229 KB) | In June 2021 the Office of Local Government (OLG) issued new Guidelines for Designated Rehoming Organisations. (Guidelines) | 18/11/2021 |
| 21-37 – Amendments to the Public Health Order relating to voting at the 2021 local government elections (PDF, 191 KB) | The Public Health (COVID-19 General) Order 2021 (the Public Health Order) has been amended by the Public Health (COVID-19 General) Amendment Order (No 8) to clarify the operation and application of the Public Health Order to voting and other activities at the local government elections. | 22/11/2021 |
| 21-38 – Consultation on review of the councillor misconduct framework (PDF, 74 KB) | The Minister for Local Government, the Hon. Shelley Hancock MP, has initiated an independent review of the framework for dealing with councillor misconduct in New South Wales. | 25/11/2021 |
| 21-39 – Public Spaces (Unattended Property) Bill 2021 (PDF, 223 KB) | The Public Spaces (Unattended Property) Act 2021 (the new Act) was passed by Parliament on 19 November 2021. | 26/11/2021 |
| 21-40 – 2022 “Hit the Ground Running” councillor webinars (PDF, 181 KB) | Under the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 (the Regulation), councils must ensure that induction training is delivered to councillors who have been elected for the first time and refresher training for councillors who are re-elected, within 6 months of their election. Councils are also required to provide supplementary training to mayors. | 7/12/2021 |
| 21-41 – Annual Reporting of Labour Statistics by Councils (PDF, 202 KB) | Section 217 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 (the Regulation) has been amended to require councils to report on their employment practices in their annual reports. | 14/12/2021 |
| 21-42 – Reminder to councils: decisions on countbacks, administration of the oath or affirmation of office and the delivery of councillor induction and refresher training after the election (PDF, 206 KB) | Councils are reminded that at their first meeting following the ordinary election, they will be required to decide whether to fill casual vacancies using a countback and to administer an oath or affirmation of office for councillors. | 24/12/2021 |
2020
| Council circular | Summary | Issue date |
|---|---|---|
| 20–01 – Recovery information for councils impacted by bushfires in NSW (PDF, 134 KB) | The Office of Local Government (OLG) has agreed to be the State coordinating agency between affected local councils seeking assistance and councils who have the capacity to assist. OLG has teamed up with the City of Sydney, Sydney Resilience Office and Local Government NSW to provide a disaster recovery council resource co ordination service to assist councils impacted by the bushfire crisis. | 6/1/2020 |
| 20–02 – Exemption for activities under Part 3 of the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) (PDF, 256 KB) | On 10 January 2020, the Commonwealth Minister for the Environment, the Hon Sussan Ley MP, granted an exemption for NSW State agencies and local councils from the application of all of the provisions of Part 3 of the EPBC Act (other than sections 21, 22A, 24D, 24E, 27B and 27C). | 16/1/2020 |
| 20–03 – Amendments to the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 to increase the tendering exemption threshold for contracts for bushfire recovery and operations (PDF, 192 KB) | Section 55 of the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act) requires councils to invite tenders before entering into a wide range of contracts. This section also specifies a number of exemptions to this requirement. | 24/1/2020 |
| 20–04 – Lands use planning changes to assist communities recover from NSW bushfires (PDF, 224 KB) | Due to the recent bushfires and the number of homes and properties damaged and destroyed the NSW Government has introduced several changes to planning rules to make it easier for people to recover and rebuild. | 21/2/2020 |
| 20–05 – Release of councillor superannuation discussion paper (PDF, 211 KB) | Due to the recent bushfires and the number of homes and properties damaged and destroyed the NSW Government has introduced several changes to planning rules to make it easier for people to recover and rebuild. | no date |
| 20–06 – Novel Coronavirus (COVID–19) Development Updates (PDF, 137 KB) | Due to the recent bushfires and the number of homes and properties damaged and destroyed the NSW Government has introduced several changes to planning rules to make it easier for people to recover and rebuild. | 10/3/2020 |
| 20–07 – Department of Premier and Cabinet circulars on employment arrangements and international and domestic travel in relation to novel coronavirus (COVID–19) (PDF, 210 KB) | Due to the recent bushfires and the number of homes and properties damaged and destroyed the NSW Government has introduced several changes to planning rules to make it easier for people to recover and rebuild. | 13/3/2020 |
| 20–08 – Release of the Guide to Webcasting Council and Committee Meetings (PDF, 225 KB) | Since 14 December 2019, councils have been required to webcast meetings of the council and committees that comprise only of councillors. The webcasting requirements do not apply to board meetings of joint organisations. | 18/3/2020 |
| 20–09 – Compliance with social distancing requirements to limit the spread of the COVID–19 virus at council and committee meetings (PDF, 115 KB) | Since 14 December 2019, councils have been required to webcast meetings of the council and committees that comprise only of councillors. The webcasting requirements do not apply to board meetings of joint organisations. | 25/3/2020 |
| 20–10 – Postponement of the September 2020 Local Government Elections (PDF, 96 KB) | Since 14 December 2019, councils have been required to webcast meetings of the council and committees that comprise only of councillors. The webcasting requirements do not apply to board meetings of joint organisations. | 25/3/2020 |
| 20–11 – Final Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting (update 28) including Joint Organisations Supplements (PDF, 96 KB) | The final Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting (Code) (update 28) is available for preparing councils’ 2019-20 financial statements.A Joint Organisation (JO) Supplement to the Code is available for preparing JO financial statements for the period. | 30/3/2020 |
| 20–12 – Modification of statutory requirements in response to the COVID–19 pandemic (PDF, 253 KB) | The final Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting (Code) (update 28) is available for preparing councils’ 2019-20 financial statements. A Joint Organisation (JO) Supplement to the Code is available for preparing JO financial statements for the period. | 17/4/2020 |
| 20–13 – Managing fraud and corruption risks during the COVID–19 pandemic (PDF, 128 KB) | The final Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting (Code) (update 28) is available for preparing councils’ 2019-20 financial statements. A Joint Organisation (JO) Supplement to the Code is available for preparing JO financial statements for the period. | 22/4/2020 |
| 20–14 – Updated guidance on attendance by councillors and others at council and committee meetings during the COVID–19 pandemic (PDF, 108 KB) | Since Circular 20-09, (Compliance with social distancing requirements to limit the spread of the COVID-19 virus at council and committee meetings), was issued on 25 March 2020, the Minister for Health and Medical Research, the Hon. Brad Hazzard MP (the Minister), issued a further Public Health Order on 30 March 2020. | 27/4/2020 |
| 20–15 – New Integrated Planning and Reporting requirements for NSW councils (PDF, 174 KB) | Since Circular 20-09, (Compliance with social distancing requirements to limit the spread of the COVID-19 virus at council and committee meetings), was issued on 25 March 2020, the Minister for Health and Medical Research, the Hon. Brad Hazzard MP (the Minister), issued a further Public Health Order on 30 March 2020. | 1/5/2020 |
| 20–16 – COVID–19 Economic Stimulus Package (PDF, 99 KB) | The Office of Local Government (OLG) has released three new resources that will assist councils to apply for the Council Job Retention Allowance Subsidy, a key element of the COVID-19 Economic Stimulus Package. | 13/5/2020 |
| 20–17 – Relaxation of some restrictions of the attendance by councillors and staff at council and committee meetings during the COVID–19 pandemic (PDF, 106 KB) | The Office of Local Government (OLG) has released three new resources that will assist councils to apply for the Council Job Retention Allowance Subsidy, a key element of the COVID-19 Economic Stimulus Package. | 20/5/2020 |
| 20–18 – Important changes for all co9uncils made by the COVID–19 Legislative Amendment (Emergency Measure–Miscellaneous) Act No. 2 (PDF, 108 KB) | The Office of Local Government (OLG) has released three new resources that will assist councils to apply for the Council Job Retention Allowance Subsidy, a key element of the COVID-19 Economic Stimulus Package. | 19/5/2020 |
| 20–19 – Information about Ratings 2020–21 (PDF, 104 KB) | The Office of Local Government (OLG) has released three new resources that will assist councils to apply for the Council Job Retention Allowance Subsidy, a key element of the COVID-19 Economic Stimulus Package. | 26/5/2020 |
| 20–20 – Clarification for issuing and collecting 2020–21 single and first quarter rates instalments (PDF, 196 KB) | Circular 20-12 issued on 17 April 2020 announced changes under section 747B of the Local Government Act 19. | 3/6/2020 |
| 20–21 – Further relaxation of restrictions on attendance at council and committee meetings during the COVID–19 pandemic (PDF, 102 KB) | The Minister for Health and Medical Research, the Hon. Brad Hazzard MP (the Minister), made the Public Health (COVID-19 Restrictions on Gathering and Movement) Order (No 3) 2020 on 12 June 2020. | 16/6/2020 |
| 20–22 – Supporting local businesses to comply with COVID–19 restrictions (PDF, 114 KB) | The Minister for Health and Medical Research, the Hon. Brad Hazzard MP (the Minister), made the Public Health (COVID-19 Restrictions on Gathering and Movement) Order (No 3) 2020 on 12 June 2020. | 20/6/2020 |
| 20–23 – 2020–21 Determination of the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal (PDF, 103 KB) | The Minister for Health and Medical Research, the Hon. Brad Hazzard MP (the Minister), made the Public Health (COVID-19 Restrictions on Gathering and Movement) Order (No 3) 2020 on 12 June 2020. | 22/6/2020 |
| 20–24 – Extension of increased tendering exemption threshold for contracts for bushfire response and recovery to 31 December 2020 (PDF, 100 KB) | The NSW Government is committed to helping local councils and their communities recover and rebuild in the wake of the recent bushfire emergencies. | 26/6/2020 |
| 20-25 – The date of the next ordinary local government elections is 4 September 2021 (PDF, 101 KB, | The Minister for Local Government has published orders in the Gazette under section 318B of the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act) postponing the next ordinary local government elections in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. | 29/06/2020 |
| 20-26 – New guidelines for registration agents (PDF, 209 KB) | New Guidelines for Registration Agents have been issued and partially replace the Guidelines on the Exercise of Functions under the Companion Animals Act. | 30/06/2020 |
| 20-27 – Amendments to the Companion Animals Regulation 2018 (PDF, 122 KB) | The NSW Government is introducing annual permits for non-desexed cats and restricted and dangerous dogs as part of its commitment to promoting responsible pet ownership and improving animal welfare standards. | 1/07/2020 |
| 20-28 – Rules on attendance at council and committee meetings during the COVID-19 pandemic as of 1 July 2020 (PDF, 113 KB) | The Minister for Health and Medical Research, the Hon. Brad Hazzard MP (the Minister), made the Public Health (COVID-19 Restrictions on Gathering and Movement) Order (No 4) 2020 on 30 June 2020. | 3/07/2020 |
| 20-29 – September 2020 mayoral elections (PDF, 111 KB) | Councils that elected mayors in September 2018 must have mayoral elections in September 2020 when the 2-year term of the current mayor expires. The mayor elected in September 2020 will hold their office until ordinary elections are held on 4 September 2021. | 4/08/2020 |
| 20-30 – COVID-19 Economic Stimulus Package – 2020-21 (PDF, 102 KB) | The Office of Local Government (OLG) has released updated resources that will assist councils to apply for the Council Job Retention Allowance Subsidy for the first quarter 2020-21 (Q1), a key element of the COVID-19 Economic Stimulus Package. | 5/08/2020 |
| 20-31 – New requirement for councils to retain recordings of meetings on their websites for a minimum of 12 months (PDF, 114 KB) | Since 14 December 2019, councils have been required to webcast meetings of the council and committees that comprise only of councillors. The webcasting requirement may be met simply by posting an audio or video recording of the meeting on the council’s website. | 14/08/2020 |
| 20-32 – Amendments to the Model Code of Conduct for Local Councils in NSW and Procedures (PDF, 113 KB) | The Procedures for the Administration of the Model Code of Conduct for Local Councils in NSW (the Procedures) have been amended in response to the decision by the Supreme Court in the matter of Cornish v Secretary, Department of Planning, Industry and Environment [2019] NSWSC 1134. | 14/08/2020 |
| 20-33 – Calendar of Compliance and Reporting Requirements 2020-21 (PDF, 95.6 KB) | The Calendar of Compliance and Reporting Requirements for councils has been updated for the 2020-21 financial year. | 21/08/2020 |
| 20-34 – Joint Organisation Calendar of Compliance and Reporting Requirements 2020-21 (PDF, 96.1 KB) | The Joint Organisation Calendar of Compliance and Reporting Requirements has been updated for the 2020-21 financial year. | 21/08/2020 |
| 20-35 – 2019-20 Survey of Seizures of Cats and Dogs – Extension of Due Date (PDF, 106 KB) | The NSW Companion Animals Register (Register) was temporarily shut down on 19 June 2020 to allow urgent maintenance and upgrading work to accommodate the introduction of annual permits for non-desexed cats and dangerous and restricted dogs from 1 July 2020. These works included necessary security upgrades to protect the system and the data it holds. | 7/09/2020 |
| 20-36 – End of Year Financial Reporting 2019-20 (PDF, 109 KB) | End of year financial reporting information for 2019-20. | 8/09/2020 |
| 20-37 – Status of special COVID-19 measures (PDF, 108 KB) | Amendments have been made to the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 (the Regulation) to: extend the period during which the special COVID-19 pandemic provisions of the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act) apply, and postpone the repeal of the COVID-19 pandemic regulation-making power in the Act. | 22/09/2020 |
| 20-38 – Special Rate Variation and Minimum Rate Variation Guidelines and Process (PDF, 105 KB) | The Guidelines that apply for Special Rate Variation and Minimum Rate Variation applications have been published on the Office of Local Government (OLG) website. | 25/11/2020 |
| 20-39 – Constitutional referendums and council polls (PDF, 112 KB) | Councils are reminded to inform the NSW Electoral Commissioner (NSWEC) if they have resolved for the NSWEC to administer a constitutional referendum or poll in conjunction with the September 2021 local government elections. | 30/11/2020 |
| 20-40 – Local Government Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting 2020-21 (PDF, 108 KB) | The final Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting (Code) is available for preparing councils’ 2020-21 financial statements. | 11/12/2020 |
| 20-41 – Further extension of increased tendering exemption threshold for contracts for bushfire response and recovery to 30 June 2021 (PDF, 100 KB) | The NSW Government is committed to helping local councils and their communities recover and rebuild in the wake of the recent bushfire emergencies. | 18/12/2020 |
| 20-42 – Release of Exposure Draft Bill on local government rating reform (PDF, 96.3 KB) | An Exposure Draft Bill has now been released for public consultation as part of the Government’s commitment to implement reforms to ensure a fairer and more flexible rating system for councils and ratepayers. | 22/12/2020 |
| GC-149 – 2020-21 Financial Assistance Grants (FAGs) – advance payment (PDF, 108 KB) | The Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, the Hon. Michael McCormack MP and Commonwealth Minister for Regional Health, Regional Communications and Commonwealth Government, the Hon. Mark Coulton MP, have announced that the Federal Government will again bring forward the first two instalments of the estimated 2020-21 FAGs. | 27/05/2020 |
2019
| Council circular | Summary | Issue date |
|---|---|---|
| 19-01 – NSW Parking Fine – Grace Period Provisions (PDF, 309 KB) | Commencing on 31 January 2019, councils are required to implement a regulated 10-minute grace period for certain paid parking offences of more than one hour. | 19/01/2019 |
| 19-02 – IPART review of the costs of conducting local government elections and extension of the deadline for councils to make a decision on the administration of their elections (PDF, 277 KB) | The Government has approved a review by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) of the costs of conducting local government elections in NSW. The matters for consideration under the review’s terms of reference are provided in the attachment to this circular. | 8/02/2019 |
| 19-03 – 2018-19 and 2019-20 Joint Organisation Calendar of Compliance and Reporting Requirements (PDF, 254 KB) | The 2018-19 Calendar of Compliance and Reporting Requirements for Joint Organisations is now available. | 14/03/2019 |
| 19-04 – Final Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting (update 27) including Joint Organisations Supplement (PDF, 263 KB) | The final Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting (Code) (update 27) is available for preparing councils’ 2018-19 financial statements. | 29/03/2019 |
| 19-05 – Information about Rating 2019-20 (PDF, 270 KB) | The maximum Boarding House Tariffs for 2019-20 have been determined. | 24/04/2019 |
| 19-06 – Changes to emergency services funding arrangements (PDF, 177 KB) | The NSW Government has made changes to workers’ compensation to provide better protection for volunteer and career firefighters affected by work-related cancers. | 8/05/2019 |
| 19-07 –2019/20 Determination of the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal (PDF, 255 KB) | The Local Government Remuneration Tribunal (the Tribunal) has determined an increase of 2.5% to mayoral and councillor fees for the 2019/20 financial year, with effect from 1 July 2019. | 20/05/2019 |
| 19-08 – Consultation on revised IPC Guideline 1 Returns of Interests (PDF, 359 KB) | The Information and Privacy Commission NSW (IPC) is seeking feedback from councils on a draft of its revised Guideline 1: For local councillors on the disclosure of information contained in returns of interest of councillors and designated persons under the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009. | 3/06/2019 |
| 19-09 – Increase to companion animal registration fees in line with CPI (PDF, 287 KB) | From 1 July 2019 cat and dog lifetime registration fees will increase in line with the Consumer Price Index as required by the Companion Animals Regulation 2018and outlined in Circular to Councils 13-54. | 12/06/2019 |
| 19-10 – Consultation on webcasting guidelines (PDF, 266 KB) | On and from 14 December 2019, all councils in NSW will be required to webcast meetings of the council and committees whose membership comprises only of councillors. | 13/06/2019 |
| 19-11 – Release of IPART Reports into rating and compliance matters for consultation (PDF, 191 KB) | The Government is releasing the final reports on three IPART reviews for feedback prior to developing final responses | 21/06/2019 |
| 19-12 – Consultation by IPART on recommended reforms to local government election costs and extension of the deadline for councils to make a decision on the administration of their elections (PDF, 336 KB) | The Government has asked the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) to review the costs of conducting local government elections in NSW. IPART is now seeking feedback on its recommended changes to what councils pay for election services provided by the NSW Electoral Commission (NSWEC). | 27/06/2019 |
| 19-13 – The development of template social media and councillor/staff interaction policies – initial consultation (PDF, 362 KB) | In support of the prescription of the new Model Code of Conduct for Local Councils in NSW, the Office of Local Government (OLG) is developing template policies on social media use and councillor/staff interactions. | 2/07/2019 |
| 19-14 – Recent amendments to the Local Government Act 1993 (PDF, 410 KB) | The Local Government Amendment Act 2019 was assented to on 24 June 2019 and a number of provisions came into effect on 25 June 2019. | 10/07/2019 |
| 19-15 – End of Year Financial Reporting 2018-19 (PDF, 293 KB) | End of year financial reporting information has been updated for 2018-19. | 15/07/2019 |
| 19-16 – New Property Acquisition Standards to apply immediately to all acquiring authorities in New South Wales, including all general purpose and county councils (PDF, 262 KB) | The Department of Finance, Services and Innovation (DFSI) has produced revised Property Acquisition Standards, that apply to all acquiring authorities in NSW, including General Purpose and County Councils. | 6/08/2019 |
| 19-17 – The appointment and dismissal of senior staff (PDF, 400 KB) | The purpose of this Circular is to remind councils of the requirements of the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act) relating to the appointment and dismissal of senior staff other than the general manager. | 14/08/2019 |
| 19-18 – Calendar of Compliance and Reporting Requirements 2019-20 (PDF, 243 KB) | The Calendar of Compliance and Reporting Requirements has been updated for the 2019‑20 financial year. | 19/0/2019 |
| 19-19 – Resources to support implementation of the new Model Code of Conduct for Local Councils in NSW (PDF, 287 KB) | Councils and joint organisations were required to adopt a code of conduct based on the Model Code of Conduct for Local Councils in NSW (the Model Code of Conduct) and associated Procedures based on the Procedures for the Administration of the Model Code of Conduct for Local Councils in NSW (Procedures) by 14 June 2019. | 27/08/2019 |
| 19-20 – A new internal audit and risk management framework for local councils in NSW – release of discussion paper (PDF, 307 KB) | The Local Government Act 1993 was amended in August 2016 to require each council and joint organisation in NSW to appoint an audit, risk and improvement committee (ARIC). This requirement will take effect from March 2021 at the earliest. | 10/09/2019 |
| 19-21 – Release of IPC Guideline 1 Returns of Interests (PDF, 111 KB) | The Information and Privacy Commission (IPC) has finalised and issued Guideline 1: For local councils on the disclosure of information contained in the returns disclosing the interests of councillors and designated persons (Guideline 1). | 26/09/2019 |
| 19-22 – Government response to IPART’s review of local government election costs (PDF, 109 KB) | On 30 August 2019, the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) provided its final report of its review of local government election costs to the Minister for Local Government. | 27/09/2019 |
| 19-23 – Constitutional referendums and council polls (PDF, 108 KB) | Councils are reminded to inform the NSW Electoral Commissioner (NSWEC) if they have resolved for the NSWEC to administer a constitutional referendum or poll in conjunction with the 2020 local government elections. | 30/09/2019 |
| 19-24 – Ward boundary and name changes (PDF, 105 KB) | Councils must review their ward boundaries and notify the NSW Electoral Commission (NSWEC) of any finalised changes to ward boundaries and/or names before 9 December 2019. | 30/09/2019 |
| 19-25 – Penalties available to councils for code of conduct breaches by councillors (PDF, 108 KB) | The purpose of this Circular is to inform councils and joint organisations of the recent decision by the Supreme Court in the matter of Cornish v Secretary, Department of Planning, Industry and Environment [2019] NSWSC 1134. | 2/10/2019 |
| 19-26 Councils are invited to visit OLG’s trade exhibition display booth at the LGNSW Conference 14-16 October, Warwick Farm (PDF, 214 KB) | Mayors, councillors and general managers are encouraged to visit the OLG trade exhibition display (stalls 21 and 22), to speak with OLG staff or ask any questions about OLG programs and initiatives. | 9/10/2019 |
| 19-27 Extension of the rates path protection for new councils (PDF, 208 KB) | New councils formed in 2016 that have opted out of the rates path protection extension will cease to be included under the Ministerial Determination issued for Section 218CB of the Local Government Act 1993. | 21/10/2019 |
| 19-28 Annual Report and Annual Performance Statement Checklists (PDF, 186 KB) | The annual report checklist for councils has been updated to include the reporting requirement on councillor professional development training. | 5/11/2019 |
| 19-29 2019-20 Draft Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting (update 28) (PDF, 246 KB) | The draft Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting (Code) (update 28) has been released for comment. | 12/12/2019 |
| 19-30 Review of Impounding Act 1993 and Release of Discussion Paper (PDF, 185 KB) | The NSW Government has announced the first comprehensive review of the Impounding Act 1993 since it commenced (the Act). | 17/12/2019 |
| 19-31 Amendments to the electoral provisions of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 (PDF, 237 KB) | Amendments have been made to the electoral provisions of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 (the Regulation). The amendments give effect to the Government’s commitment, made in its response to the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal’s review of local government election costs, to modernise the electoral provisions of the Regulation and to align them with the more contemporary and efficient practices used at State elections in time for the September 2020 council elections. | 20/12/2019 |
2018
| Council circular | Summary | Issue date |
|---|---|---|
| 18-01 Establishment of a Council Engagement Team (PDF, 78 KB) | OLG is changing the way it engages with councils. A key step is the establishment of a Council Engagement Team. | 9/02/2018 |
| 18-02 – Supporting Joint Organisation success – Consultation on regulations and extension to the nomination deadline (PDF, 225 KB) | With more than half of regional and rural NSW councils having already resolved to join a Joint Organisation (JO), results have been encouraging. | 16/02/2018 |
| 18-03 – Reminder: Invitation for submissions on consultation drafts of the following: Councillor Induction and Professional Development Guidelines and Model Code of Meeting Practice for Local Councils in NSW (PDF, 279 KB) | The purpose of this Circular is to remind councils of the opportunity to make submissions on the Councillor Induction and Professional Development Guidelines and the Model Code of Meeting Practice for Local Councils in NSW which are currently on public exhibition. | 19/02/2018 |
| 18-04 – OLG Financial Reporting Roadshows 2018 (PDF, 278 KB) | The Office of Local Government (OLG) is conducting a series of information sessions in March 2018 on impending Accounting Standards and the auditing of financial statements. | 20/02/2018 |
| 18-05 –Commencement of the biodiversity offset scheme across most of NSW (PDF, 362 KB) | The Office of Local Government (OLG) is working in partnership with the Office of Environment and Heritage and the Department of Planning and Environment to support the commencement of the Biodiversity Offset Scheme. | 23/02/2018 |
| 18-06 – 2018 Ministers’ Awards for Women in Local Government (PDF, 245 KB) | The Minister for Local Government, the Hon. Gabrielle Upton MP, announced the winners of the eleventh annual Ministers’ Awards for Women in Local Government at Parliament House on 7 March 2018. | 7/03/2018 |
| 18-07 – Council Crown Land Managers – General Manager and senior staff webinar (PDF, 268 KB) | The Office of Local Government and the Department of Industry – Crown Land will be co-hosting a webinar for council General Managers and senior staff with public land management responsibilities from 10.30am to 12.00pm on Wednesday 21 March 2018. | 12/03/2018 |
| 18-08 – Information about Rating 2018-19 (PDF, 247 KB) | The maximum Boarding House Tariffs for 2018-19 have been determined. The maximum interest rate payable on overdue rates and charges for 2018-19 has been determined. Section 603 Certificate fee for 2018-19 has been determined. The statutory limit on the maximum amount of minimum rates for 2018-19 has been determined. | 20/03/2018 |
| 18-09 – Support for councils in relation to kerbside recycling and the impact of the Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) (PDF, 356 KB) | The NSW Government will shortly release further information to councils to help negotiate agreements with Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) in relation to sharing the proceeds from the kerbside collection of eligible CDS containers. | 28/03/2018 |
| 18-10 – Final Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting (update 26) (PDF, 240 KB) | The final Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting (Code) (Update 26) is available for preparing councils’ 2017/18 financial statements. | 18/04/2018 |
| 18-11 – Companion Animals Regulation 2008 Review (PDF, 236 KB) | The Companion Animals Regulation 2008 (the Regulation) is undergoing statutory review by the NSW Government. The Regulation, which is made under the Companion Animals Act 1998, provides key information about how companion animals (pet cats and dogs) are identified, registered and managed in NSW. | 23/04/2018 |
| 18-12 – Management of unsolicited proposals received by councils (PDF, 80 KB) | The NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet (DPC) has recently updated its Unsolicited Proposals Guide for Submission and Assessment (the Guide) for NSW Government agencies. | 30/04/2018 |
| 18-13 – Local Government Skills Strategy (PDF, 80 KB) | The Local Government Skills Strategy (LGSS) is being rolled out to councils across the State following a successful pilot program. | 18/05/2018 |
| 18-14 – Auditor General’s report to Parliament on the 2016-17 financial audits of NSW Councils (PDF, 78 KB) | The Auditor-General for NSW has tabled a report to Parliament commenting on the audit of NSW councils’ 2016-17 financial statements. | 22/05/2018 |
| 18-15 – Commencement of the Crown Land Management Act 2016 (PDF, 90 KB) | The Minister for Lands and Forestry, the Hon. Paul Toole MP today announced that the Crown Land Management Act 2016 (CLM Act) will commence on 1 July 2018. | 1/06/2018 |
| 18-16 – Increase to companion animal registration fees in line with CPI (PDF, 79 KB) | From 1 July 2018 cat and dog lifetime registration fees will increase in line with the Consumer Price Index as required by the Companion Animals Regulation 2008 and outlined in Circular to Councils 13-54. | 7/06/2018 |
| 18-17 – End of Year Financial Reporting 2017-18 (PDF, 262 KB) | End of year financial reporting information has been updated for 2017-18. | 8/06/2018 |
| 18-18 – 2018/19 Determination of the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal (PDF, 238 KB) | The Local Government Remuneration Tribunal (the Tribunal) has determined an increase of 2.5% to mayoral and councillor fees for the 2018/19 financial year, with effect from 1 July 2018. | 13/06/2018 |
| 18-19 – Changes relating to the publication of notices (PDF, 387 KB) | The NSW Parliament has passed the Statute Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2018, which contains a number of amendments to the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act). | 27/06/2018 |
| 18-20 – Guidance to councils on transitioning to the new Australian Accounting Standards (PDF, 379 KB) | The Australian Accounting Standards Board (AASB) is making a number of options available to entities on transition to the new standards. | 2/08/2018 |
| 18-21 – 2018-19 Calendar of Compliance and Reporting Requirements (PDF, 342 KB) | The 2018-19 Calendar of Compliance and Reporting Requirements is now available for councils. | 16/08/2018 |
| 18-22 – Release of the Charter for Public Participation – a guide to assist agencies and promote citizen engagement (PDF, 320 KB) | The NSW Information and Privacy Commission has released its Charter for Public Participation – a guide to assist agencies and promote citizen engagement (the Charter). | 22/08/2018 |
| 18-23 – Mayoral Elections (PDF, 341 KB) | Under section 230(1) of the Local Government Act 1993, mayors elected by councillors now hold office for 2 years. | 5/09/2018 |
| 18-24 – Status of the new Model Code of Conduct for Local Councils in NSW and Procedures (PDF, 240 KB) | The new 2018 Model Code of Conduct for Local Councils in NSW (the Model Code) and Procedures for the Administration of the Model Code of Conduct for Local Councils in NSW (Procedures) have been finalised and will soon be prescribed by the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005. | 5/09/2018 |
| 18-25 – Status of the new Councillor Induction and Professional Development Guidelines (PDF, 308 KB) | Amendments to the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act) by the Local Government Amendment (Governance and Planning) Act 2016 in August 2016 saw the inclusion in the prescribed role of councillors under section 232 a responsibility “to make all reasonable efforts to acquire and maintain the skills necessary to perform the role of a councillor”. | 5/09/2018 |
| 18-26 – Commencement of amendments to the Companion Animals Act 1998 and a new Companion Animals Regulation 2018 (PDF, 267 KB) | On 31 August 2018 amendments to the Companion Animals Act 1998 commenced, and the Companion Animals Regulation 2018 wholly replaced the former Companion Animals Regulation 2008. In addition, penalties for offences relating to assistance animals increased on 1 July 2018. | 6/09/2018 |
| 18-27 – Review of Privacy Code of Practice for Local Government (PDF, 264 KB) | Councils are invited to provide comment to the Information and Privacy Commission’s (IPC’s) review of the Privacy Code of Practice for Local Government (the Code) by 30 September 2018. | 13/09/2018 |
| 18-28 – Annual Report Checklist (PDF, 328 KB) | The Annual Report Checklist has been updated. | 26/09/2018 |
| 18-29 – New structure for NSW State Emergency Service (PDF, 2.2 KB) | A new structure for the NSW SES will commence on 2 October 2018. | 27/09/2018 |
| 18-30 – Changes to GIPA – IPC Advice (PDF, 79 KB) | Under the new Government Information (Public Access) Regulation 2018 (GIPA Regulation) changes have been made to the definition of open access information for local government in relation to development applications. | 3/10/2018 |
| 18-31 – Special Variation and Minimum Rate Variation Guidelines and Process for 2019-20 (PDF, 245 KB) | The timetable for 2019-20 Special Variation and Minimum Rate Variation applications has been released. The Guidelines that apply to 2019-20 Special Variation and Minimum Rate Variation applications have been published. | 8/10/2018 |
| 18-32 – Councils are invited to visit OLG’s trade exhibition display booth at the LGNSW Conference 21-23 October, Albury (PDF, 134 KB) | Mayors, councillors and general managers are encouraged to visit the OLG trade exhibition display (stalls 32 & 33), to speak with staff or ask any questions they may have about OLG programs and initiatives. | 15/10/2018 |
| 18-33 – OLG Financial Reporting Workshops 2018-19 (PDF, 280 KB) | The Office of Local Government (OLG) is conducting a series of workshops commencing November 2018 and concluding May 2019 on impending Accounting Standards and the auditing of financial statements. | 22/10/2018 |
| 18-34 – Reminder of 1 December 2018 deadline for councils to finalise a refund sharing agreement to share in Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) kerbside revenue (PDF, 351 KB) | Councils must notify the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) that they have reached a refund sharing agreement with their Material Recovery Facility (MRF) operator before 1 December 2018 to enable the MRF to continue to claim refunds for eligible containers and to enable councils to receive a share of CDS revenue from their kerbside recycling stream. | 24/10/2018 |
| 18-35 – The new Model Code of Meeting Practice for Local Councils (PDF, 343 KB) | The new Model Code of Meeting Practice for Local Councils in NSW (the Model Meeting Code) has been finalised and will soon be prescribed by the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005. | 16/11/2018 |
| 18-36 – Promoting Water Safety during the 2018-19 Swimming Season (PDF, 235 KB) | The 2018-19 swimming season has now commenced. Councils play a crucial role in promoting water safety and in minimising risks associated with aquatic locations under their care and control. | 20/11/2018 |
| 18-37 – Audit Office – Local Government Fraud Control Performance Audit (PDF, 265 KB) | The NSW Audit Office has undertaken a sector-wide performance audit of fraud controls in councils. Councils’ fraud controls were assessed against the Audit Office’s Fraud Control Improvement Kit. | 20/11/2018 |
| 18-38 – 2018-19 draft Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting (Update No. 27) (PDF, 228 KB) | The draft 2018-19 Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting has been released for comment. | 22/11/2018 |
| 18-39 – Debt Management and Hardship Guidelines (PDF, 225 KB) | The Office of Local Government has issued new Guidelines to ensure best practice debt management and hardship practices in all NSW councils. | 27/11/2018 |
| 18-40 – Expanded powers under the Impounding Act 1993 to manage shared bicycles (PDF, 258 KB) | The Impounding Amendment (Shared Bicycles and Other Devices) Act 2018 was gazetted and commences on 30 November 2018. | 30/11/2018 |
| 18-41 – Misuse of Council Resources – March 2019 State Election (PDF, 451 KB) | In the lead up to the March 2019 State election, councillors, council staff and other council officials need to be aware of their obligations under the Model Code of Conduct for Local Councils in NSW (the Model Code) in relation to the use of council resources. | 6/12/2018 |
| 18-42 – Recent amendments to the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (PDF, 387 KB) | The NSW Parliament recently passed amendments to the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (GIPA Act). These changes came into effect on 28 November 2018 and will impact on how councils fulfil their obligations under the GIPA Act. | 10/12/2018 |
| 18-43 – Council decisions on the administration of the September 2020 elections (PDF, 269 KB) | Under section 296AA of the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act), councils must make a decision on how their September 2020 ordinary elections are to be administered no later than 11 March 2019. | 12/12/2018 |
| 18-44 – Commencement of the new Model Code of Conduct for Local Councils in NSW and Procedures (PDF, 291 KB) | The new 2018 Model Code of Conduct for Local Councils in NSW (the Model Code of Conduct) and Procedures for the Administration of the Model Code of Conduct for Local Councils in NSW (Procedures) have now been prescribed under the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005. The new prescribed Model Code of Conduct and Procedures are available on OLG’s website. | 18/12/2018 |
| 18-45 – Commencement of the new Model Code of Meeting Practice for Local Councils in NSW (PDF, 278 KB) | Amendments made to the Local Government Act 1993 (LGA) in August 2016 by the Local Government Amendment (Governance and Planning) Act 2016 (the Phase 1 amendments) provide for a model code of meeting practice (Model Meeting Code) to be prescribed by the Regulation. | 18/12/2018 |
| 18-46 – New Councillor Induction and Professional Development Requirements (PDF, 315 KB) | Amendments made to the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act) by the Local Government Amendment (Governance and Planning) Act 2016 in August 2016 saw the inclusion in the prescribed role of councillors under section 232 a responsibility “to make all reasonable efforts to acquire and maintain the skills necessary to perform the role of a councillor”. | 18/12/2018 |
| 18-47 – Amendments to the election provisions of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 (PDF, 284 KB) | Amendments have been made to the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 (the Regulation) to give effect to the Government’s response to the recommendations of the Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters (JSCEM) in relation to preference counting in local government elections. | 19/12/2018 |
2017
| Council circular | Summary | Issue date |
|---|---|---|
| 17-01 – Exhibition draft of Bill to amend the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (PDF, 265 KB) | As announced in May 2016, the Government is exhibiting draft amendments to the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act). The draft Bill will be on exhibition from 9 January 2017 to 10 March 2017. | 9/01/2017 |
| 17-02 – Draft Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting (update 25) and Supplement (PDF, 303 KB) | The draft 2016-17 Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting has been released for comment. | 17/02/2017 |
| 17-03 – 2017 Ministers’ Awards for Women in Local Government (PDF, 99 KB) | The Minister for Local Government, the Hon. Gabrielle Upton MP announced the winners of the tenth annual Ministers’ Awards for Women in Local Government at Parliament House on 7 March 2017. | 7/03/2017 |
| 17-04 – Topics for local government performance audit by Auditor-General of NSW (PDF, 230 KB) | The Auditor-General of NSW was given the mandate to conduct performance audits of a council, or the sector, as part of the Phase 1 amendments to the Local Government Act 1993. | 27/03/2017 |
| 17-05 – Innovation Fund – Round Two – Open for Applications (PDF, 227 KB) | Round Two of the Innovation Fund is now open for eligible councils. | 1/04/2017 |
| 17-06 – Commencement of Phase 1 Amendments – An Overview (PDF, 194 KB) | The Office of Local Government has received questions about the commencement dates of amendments to the Local Government Act 1993 made by the Local Government Amendment (Governance and Planning) Act 2016 (the Phase 1 Amendments). | 4/05/2017 |
| 17-07 – Update to Integrated Planning and Reporting Manual – request for feedback (PDF, 233 KB) | In response to recent amendments to the Local Government Act 1993, the Office of Local Government (OLG) is revising the Integrated Planning and Reporting Guidelines. | 9/05/2017 |
| 17-08 – 2017/18 Determination of the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal (PDF, 232 KB) | The Local Government Remuneration Tribunal (the Tribunal) has determined an increase of 2.5% to mayoral and councillor fees for the 2017/18 financial year, with effect from 1 July 2017. | 10/05/2017 |
| 17-09 – Information about Rating 2017-18 (PDF, 237 KB) | The maximum Boarding House Tariffs and maximum interest rate chargeable on overdue rates and charges for 2017-18 has been determined. | 19/05/2017 |
| 17-10 – Final Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting (PDF, 99 KB) | The final Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting (Code) (Update 25) is available for preparing councils’ 2016/17 financial statements. | 7/06/2017 |
| 17-11 – Council decision-making prior to the September 2017 local government elections (PDF, 258 KB) | Clause 393B of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 limits councils’ ability to exercise some of their functions in the four weeks preceding the date of a local government election (the caretaker period). | 14/06/2017 |
| 17-12 – “Electoral matter” and use of council resources prior to local government elections (PDF, 375 KB) | Council officials (including Administrators) must not use council resources, property (including intellectual property), and facilities for the purposes of assisting their election campaign or the election campaign of others unless the use is lawfully authorised and proper payment is made where appropriate. | 14/06/2017 |
| 17-13 – Preparation of non-residential rolls (PDF, 253 KB) | The Local Government Act 1993 (the Act) requires council general managers to prepare and confirm the rolls of non-resident owners, occupiers and ratepaying lessees of rateable land in the council’s area (the non-residential rolls). | 14/06/2017 |
| 17-14 – Elections for councils affected by merger proposals on 9 September 2017 (PDF, 259 KB) | On 7 April 2017 the Minister for Local Government, the Hon. Gabrielle Upton MP, issued an order under section 318C(1) of the Local Government Act 1993 nominating 9 September 2017 as the date on which elections will be held for councils that are the subject of pending and discontinued merger proposals. | 15/06/2017 |
| 17-15 – Release of Discussion Paper – Review of Companion Animals Regulation 2008 (PDF, 233 KB) | The NSW Government is undertaking a statutory review to remake the Companion Animals Regulation 2008 (the Regulation) prior to its automatic repeal on 1 September 2018. | 19/06/2017 |
| 17-16 – Transition from Administration to the Integrated Planning and Reporting framework for merged councils (PDF, 293 KB) | This Circular provides advice to those councils proclaimed in 2016 (see list below) in relation to Integrated Planning and Reporting (IP&R) in the lead-up to their first local government elections on 9 September 2017. | 26/06/2017 |
| 17-17 – Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy – Better Practice Template (PDF, 232 KB) | A better practice Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy template (the Policy template) has been developed and is being made available for use by all councils. | 27/06/2017 |
| 17-18 – Increase to companion animal registration fees in line with CPI (PDF, 259 KB) | From 1 July 2017 cat and dog lifetime registration fees will increase in line with the Consumer Price Index as required by the Companion Animals Regulation 2008 and outlined in Circular to Councils 13-54. | 28/06/2017 |
| 17-19 – Stand for your community – candidate guide and candidate diversity resources (PDF, 227 KB) | The guide for candidates, Stand for your community, and other candidate diversity resources have been updated by the Office of Local Government (the Office) to assist prospective candidates in making informed decisions about standing for election to local government in 2017. The resources also aimed at encouraging candidates from diverse backgrounds to consider standing for election. | 5/07/2017 |
| 17-20 – 2017 Local Government elections – Hit the Ground Running workshops (PDF, 237 KB) | OLG will again be providing support to councils and councillors to help them in their roles by conducting Hit the Ground Running councillor workshops following local government elections on Saturday 9 September, 2017. | 18/07/2017 |
| 17-21 – Reporting of Rates Permissible Income for 2017-18 (PDF, 235 KB) | On 29 November 2016, the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) announced the 2017-18 rate-peg limit of 1.5%. | 24/07/2017 |
| 17-22 – Oath or affirmation of office by councillors (PDF, 230 KB) | Under the Local Government Act 1993, councillors (including mayors) are now required to take an oath or affirmation of office. | 25/07/2017 |
| 17-23 – Preparing for implementation of the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 (PDF, 267 KB) | In March 2015, the NSW Government committed to all 43 recommendations of the Independent Biodiversity Legislation Review Panel’s review of biodiversity conservation legislation. | 26/07/2017 |
| 17-24 – Guidelines for Council When Notification of an Intention to use Fireworks is Received(PDF, 278 KB) | SafeWork NSW has updated the 2008 Guidelines, which provide councils with a standard framework when deciding whether to raise an objection with SafeWork NSW about a fireworks display for which a council has received notification. | 30/08/2017 |
| 17-25 – Container Deposit Scheme and waste management contracts (PDF, 252 KB) | The NSW Container Deposit Scheme (the Scheme) will commence on 1 December 2017, with a 10 cent refund claimable on eligible containers. | 7/09/2017 |
| 17-26 – 2017 “Hit the Ground Running” Councillor Workshops for councils with elections in September 2017 – promotional flyer and online registrations (PDF, 79 KB) | A promotional flyer has been produced to provide information to general managers and councillors about the upcoming “Hit the Ground Running” councillor workshops. | 14/09/2017 |
| 17-27 – End of Year Financial Reporting 2016-17 (PDF, 409 KB) | End of year financial reporting information has been updated for 2016-17. | 25/09/2017 |
| 17-28 – 2017-2018 Calendar of Compliance and Reporting Requirements (PDF, 252 KB) | The 2017-18 Calendar of Compliance and Reporting Requirements is now available for councils. | 9/10/2017 |
| 17-29 – Investment Policy Guidelines – Interim TCorp Waiver (PDF, 254 KB) | The NSW Government has provided a waiver to certain provisions within OLG’s Investment Policy Guidelines to allow councils to engage NSW Treasury Corporation (TCorp) in the provision of investment advice. | 10/10/2017 |
| 17-30 – Consultation on drafts of the new Model Code of Conduct for Local Councils in NSW and associated Procedures (PDF, 304 KB) | The Office of Local Government (OLG) is consulting with councils and other stakeholders on changes to the Model Code of Conduct for Local Councils in NSW (the Model Code of Conduct) and the Procedures for the Administration of the Model Code of Conduct for Local Councils in NSW (the Procedures). | 23/10/2017 |
| 17-31 – Updated Practice Note 15 – Water Safety (PDF, 279 KB) | Coinciding with the beginning of the 2017/18 swimming season, Practice Note 15 – Water Safety (the Practice Note) has been updated to reflect key legislative changes and the latest best practice advice. | 24/10/2017 |
| 17-32 – 2017 Edition of the Councillor Handbook (PDF, 243 KB) | The Office of Local Government has issued an updated edition of the Councillor Handbook. | 30/10/2017 |
| 17-33 – GIPA Annual Reporting Obligations (PDF, 248 KB) | Councils are reminded of the requirement to submit their annual report to the Information and Privacy Commission NSW (IPC) on the council’s obligations under the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (GIPA Act). | 30/10/2017 |
| 17-34 – GIPA Contracts Register (PDF, 244 KB) | Councils are reminded of requirements under Division 5 of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 in relation to maintaining a register of government contracts. | 31/10/2017 |
| 17-35 – Special Variation and Minimum Rate Variation Guidelines and Process for 2018/19 (PDF, 255 KB) | The timetables for 2018/19 Special Variation and Minimum Rate Variation applications have been released. | 9/11/2017 |
| 17-36 – Annual Code of Conduct Complaints Reporting (PDF, 243 KB) | Under the Model Code of Conduct Procedures, each council’s complaints coordinator must report annually on a range of complaint statistics to their council and to the Office of Local Government within three months of the end of September. | 9/11/2017 |
| 17-37 – Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program (PDF, 274 KB) | The Office of Sport has allocated $4 million over four years for the provision of Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) through the NSW Government Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program. | 20/11/2017 |
| 17-38 – Update on implementation of the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 (PDF, 266 KB) | New applications for development consent or modifications to an approved development under Part 4 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) (not including State Significant Development) will continue to be assessed under former planning provisions until 25 February 2018 in most local government areas. | 24/11/2017 |
| 17-39 – Consultation on the Proposed Councillor Induction and Professional Development Guidelines (PDF, 322 KB) | Amendments made to the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act) by the Local Government Amendment (Governance and Planning) Act 2016 in August 2016 saw the inclusion in the prescribed role of councillors under section 232 a responsibility “to make all reasonable efforts to acquire and maintain the skills necessary to perform the role of a councillor”. | 6/12/2017 |
| 17-40 – Consultation on the draft Model Code of Meeting Practice for Local Councils in NSW (PDF, 455 KB) | Amendments made to the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act) in August last year by the Local Government Amendment (Governance and Planning) Act 2016 provide for a model code of meeting practice (Model Meeting Code) to be prescribed by regulation. | 6/12/2017 |
| 17-41 – 2017-18 draft Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting (Update No. 26) (PDF, 341 KB) | The draft 2017-18 Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting has been released for comment. | 14/12/2017 |
| 17-42 – Changes to Crown reserve management under the Crown Land Management Act 2016 (PDF, 374 KB) | The Office of Local Government (OLG) is partnering with the Department of Industry (DOI) – Crown Land to ensure councils are prepared for commencement of the Crown Land Management Act 2016 (CLM Act), in 2018. | 14/12/2017 |
| 17-43 – Boat Trailer Impounding Guidelines for councils (PDF, 258 KB) | The Boat Trailer Impounding Guidelines (the Guidelines) provide information for authorised impounding officers about the exercise of functions under the Impounding Act 1993 regarding the enforcement of provisions relating to impounding unattended boat trailers. | 21/12/2017 |