Published on Wednesday, 19 November 2025 at 1:49:26 PM
The November Ordinary Council Meeting (OCM) was a busy one! The highlights from this month’s meeting are below.
Change of use 16 Hamilton St
Council approved an extension to the outdoor play area of St Michael’s School, into the backyard of a neighboring property, also owned by the school.
The proposal involves moving the dividing fence between the school and 16 Hamilton Street so that about 400 square metres of the backyard can be used a nature play area for St Michael’s students.
Local Planning Policy No.18 - Short Term Rental Accommodation (STRA) adopted
Council adopted the amended Local Planning Policy No.18 - Short-Term Rental Accommodation (STRA) (LPP18) without modification, following advertising.
The policy was amended to align with the Western Australian Planning Commission (WAPC) Position Statement: Planning for Tourism and Short-Term Rental Accommodation, which sets out state reforms to ensure Short Term Rental Accommodation is treated fairly and consistently.
Bassendean Bowling Club lease granted
Council approved a new lease with the Bassendean Bowling Club Inc. for 10 years.
Community Awards Policy overhaul
Due to lack of nominations over several years, Council has approved plans to overhaul the Community Awards process by moving to year-round nominations and holding the ceremony in December alongside the Town’s existing Thank a Volunteer Day celebration.
The policy will be updated to reference the Council Plan, add eligibility rules to manage repeat awards, and remove requirements about the award format so there is more flexibility.
New categories include Community Citizen of the Year (adult, youth and senior) and Active Citizenship, which covers contributions to environment, economy, arts, inclusion, and wellbeing. The next awards event is scheduled for December 2026.
Reverse vending machine to be installed at BIC Reserve
Council approved the installation of a Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) for Containers for Change adjacent to the Bassendean Bowling Club.
The initiative supports the State Government’s Container Deposit Scheme, which offers refunds for eligible containers as well as the Town’s own recycling objectives.
The Town previously gave in-principle support for the site at BIC Reserve due to its accessibility and limited use of green space. Development approval was granted in mid-2025 with conditions, including waste and security plans, anti-graffiti coating, and no tree removal.
Once a building permit has been issued, work will get underway.
Property Local Law review
Council acknowledged the review of the Property Local Law 2001 and resolved that it remains unchanged, as it is still relevant and meets legislative requirements under the Local Government Act 1995.
Activities in Thoroughfares Local Law approved for phase two advertising
Council progressed the statutory review of its Activities in Thoroughfares and Trading in Thoroughfares and Public Places Local Law 2010, as required under the Local Government Act 1995.
Phase 1 of the review found no submissions, and Phase 2 will commence public consultation from 20 November 2025 to 23 January 2026.
The proposal is to repeal the existing law and adopt a new version based on the WALGA model, with amendments. Key changes include aligning verge treatments with the Town’s Verge Guidelines, allowing play equipment under permit, updating advertising sign provisions, and removing outdated or irrelevant sections such as roadside conservation and property numbering.
Council has endorsed giving public notice of these changes before final adoption.
Jubilee Reserve Clubrooms tender awarded
Council endorsed appointing the recommended contractor for architectural services to redevelop Stan Moses Pavilion and Caledonian Soccer Club rooms at Jubilee Reserve.
The project aims to create a multi-use sports precinct with upgraded facilities, including unisex changerooms, improved toilets, and new clubrooms, to meet community needs and support female participation in sport.
Advocacy priorities 2026/27
Council adopted updated advocacy priorities for 2026/27, including rating social and affordable housing properties, transport and road safety projects, improved management of the Pyrton site, Tonkin Park containment cell, and Bicentenary funding for heritage assets.
The Town will prepare and promote the Advocacy Plan through our communication channels.
For more detail on the priorities, click here.
Environmental management services tender awarded
Council approved appointing contractors for environmental management services under a consolidated contract covering weed control, bushland maintenance, and Success Hill Reserve maintenance. The contract will run for two years with two one-year extension options to improve efficiency and service delivery.
EV charger installation at BIC Reserve
Council endorsed appointing a contractor to operate a new 60kW EV fast charger in James Street under a 10-year licence agreement. The arrangement is cost-neutral for the Town and supports EV uptake and reduced emissions.
Library and Customer Service Integration Project
The Library and Customer Service Integration Project will kick off in December, following Council’s endorsement of the preferred contractor for the works.
The project involves co-locating Customer Service and Library Services staff in the Library building, creating a single community hub. Building site works are anticipated to commence mid-January 2026.
The initiative will deliver a “one-stop shop” for services, driving cost efficiencies and providing greater accessibility and convenience for residents of all ages and abilities.
The project is expected to finish by March 2026 with minimal disruption to patrons. The Town will communicate further as the project progresses.
View the full meeting below.
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