Published on Thursday, 28 May 2026 at 12:44:27 PM
The highlights from the May Ordinary Council Meeting (OCM) are below.
Wind in the Willows fee update
Council has resolved to adopt updated fees for Wind in the Willows for 2026/27 to support service continuity and financial sustainability ahead of a planned transition after July 2027. From 1 July 2026, the daily fee will be $192 per child, with a discounted rate of $179 per child per day for families attending four or more days a week.
The two-tier structure is intended to encourage more consistent occupancy, support families who rely on full-time or near full-time care and reduce the financial burden on ratepayers who do not use the service.
See the full media statement here.
Bassendean North Targeted Underground Power Project Co-Funding Agreement
Bassendean North is a step closer to receiving underground power, with the Town of Bassendean signing a co-funding agreement with Western Power to deliver the project.
Part of Western Power’s Targeted Underground Power Program, the upgrade will improve power reliability, reduce storm-related outages and enhance local streetscapes. Construction is expected to begin in October 2026 and continue for around 11 months.
No service charges will be passed on to affected property owners in 2026/27 while payment plans are developed and further engagement carried out. Property-specific information will be provided directly to affected owners and residents in coming months.
Read the full media statement here.
Investigation and concept planning for nature-based pump track
Council has backed plans to investigate possible locations for a small to mid-sized nature-based jump or pump track in the district, making sure any site avoids environmentally sensitive and residential areas.
Once a suitable site is identified and approved, the community will be invited to help shape a concept plan, with the project targeted for delivery in 2026/27.
The track is intended to give riders a safe, purpose-built space that meets design standards and is managed and insured. It will also help reduce the environmental damage caused by informal bike tracks.
When the new facility is up and running, existing unauthorised tracks will be rehabilitated and revegetated.
Council also supported the idea of maintaining or co-managing the site with a formal rider group and approved $20,000 to fund the investigation and planning work.
Read the full media statement here.
Nurstead Avenue Heritage Area and Draft Amended Local Planning Policy No. 4 - Heritage and Character
Council resolved to adopt the amended Local Planning Policy No. 4 – Heritage and Character, including the designation of the Nurstead Avenue Heritage Area within the area bounded by Guildford Road, Lord Street, and the Perth to Midland Railway line.
The proposal was publicly advertised, with a total of 13 submissions received. Key concerns related to the removal of exemptions for demolishing non-heritage buildings.
Council supported the amendments, which help protect the area’s overall character and clarify how applications will be assessed. The changes also provide detailed guidance on assessing places in a designated heritage area that are not on the State Heritage Register, Local Heritage List or Local Heritage Survey, as well as ineligible exemptions and redevelopment benefits.
The policy was also reviewed by the State Heritage Council. Minor changes were made in response to feedback.
Council adopted the amended policy, strengthening heritage protections while keeping consistency with State planning requirements.
Draft Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) endorsed for advertising
Council approved the Draft Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) 2026-2031 for public consultation.
The RAP renews the Town’s commitment to reconciliation and outlines practical, achievable actions to strengthen relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Key priorities include authentic engagement with Traditional Owners, increasing understanding of Noongar culture and history, enhancing cultural visibility, and supporting local Aboriginal businesses.
The community will be invited to provide feedback during a 28‑day public consultation period, which will help inform the final plan before adoption.
Draft Public Health Plan
Council endorsed the Public Health Plan 2026-2031 with no changes, enabling the Town to meet its statutory obligations under the Public Health Act 2016 ahead of the 4 June 2026 deadline.
Aligned with the WA State Public Health Plan 2025-2030, the Town’s Council Plan and key service areas, the Plan embeds public health outcomes across community development, recreation, environmental health and infrastructure.
Informed by local health data and community needs, it identifies five priority areas:
- active and healthy lifestyles
- social wellbeing and community connections
- health promotion and advocacy
- built and physical environment
- regulation and protection.
The Plan builds on the Town’s progress under its 2022-2026 plan, including initiatives such as the RElax program, activation of sporting and recreation facilities, and support for community-led wellbeing activities, helping deliver a healthy, safe and connected community.
Policy Review - Street and Reserve Trees Council Policy
Council adopted the amended Street and Reserve Trees Council Policy, with effect from 1 July 2026. The updated policy strengthens the Town’s approach to protecting and growing its urban forest, including setting interim canopy targets based on 2024 Urban Eye data and maintaining progress toward the Town’s 30% tree canopy target by 2040.
Key changes include higher replacement planting ratios for removed trees, updated provisions for the removal or retention of dead trees for habitat, and a shift in policy review frequency from annual to biennial.
Local Law Review - Activities in Thoroughfares and Public Places and Trading Local Law
Council adopted the Activities in Thoroughfares and Public Places and Trading Local Law 2026 following a statutory review of local laws.
The new local law replaces the 2010 version, updates how activities and trading in public places are managed and allows items such as swings and little libraries on verges, subject to approval.
Following public consultation, two submissions were received and minor changes were made to the final draft. Council also revoked the Verge Treatment Policy, which will no longer be needed once the new local law is gazetted. Existing verge guidelines will remain, with minor updates.
Change to Ordinary Council Meeting date
Council supported changing the date of the June 2026 Ordinary Council Meeting to Tuesday 23 June 2026.
In turn this changes the date of the June Briefing Session to Tuesday 16 June 2026.
The change of dates will be published on the Town’s website.
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