- Agenda attachments April 7, 2026 (130.12 MB)
For more information and appendices for each item, view the Council Meeting Agenda above.
The below summary is unconfirmed until the Minutes of the Meeting are accepted by Council.
1. Opening Prayer & Original Custodians Statement
2. Apologies
None.
3. Confirmation of Minutes
That the Minutes of the Scheduled Meeting of Council held on 2 March 2026, be confirmed. (7-0)
4. Declaration by Councillors and Officers of any Conflict of Interest in any Item on the Agenda
None.
5. Mayoral Presentation
6. Public Question Time
7.1. Warrnambool Surf Life Saving Club Redevelopment
The Warrnambool Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) have submitted a revised masterplan for a redevelopment of their site on the Warrnambool foreshore, including a revised footprint (refer Attachment 1).
The Warrnambool Foreshore Framework Plan 2024, provides indicative support for the revised footprint.
The SLSC have submitted a request via a state government pathway for approval of the proposed redevelopment (refer Attachment 2).
The proposed redevelopment will still require consent under the Marine and Coastal Act.
The SLSC have requested that as land manager, Council provide their support for the proposed redevelopment, including the revised footprint.
Council supported the following recommendation (7-0):
That as the land manager, Council provide in-principle support for the redevelopment of the Warrnambool Surf Life Saving Club, including the revised footprint, as shown in the Warrnambool Surf Life Saving Club Redevelopment Masterplan (update) March 2026.
7.2 Use Of Artificial Intelligence Policy 2026
Council’s Use of Artificial Intelligence Policy is due for review in a context where AI use is expanding rapidly across government, business and the broader community. Since the policy was first introduced, the technology landscape has evolved beyond basic generative AI tools and now increasingly includes more sophisticated and agentic AI uses, creating a need for a more mature and risk-based governance approach.
The revised policy responds to this changed environment and has been informed by the Australian Government’s updated Policy for the responsible use of AI in government. The proposed changes strengthen governance and approval requirements, improve privacy, cyber security and transparency controls, and more clearly direct staff toward Council’s enterprise Microsoft Copilot environment in preference to non-enterprise tools.
The revised policy is intended to support appropriate innovation and practical use of AI, while reinforcing human accountability, protecting sensitive information, and aligning Council’s approach with contemporary best practice and community expectations.
Council supported the following recommendations (7-0):
That Council:
1. Revoke the Use of Artificial Intelligence Policy 2025.
2. Adopt the Use of Artificial Intelligence Policy 2026.
3. Authorises the Chief Executive Officer to make minor administrative and editorial amendments to the Policy that do not materially alter its intent or operation.
7.3. Sale And Acquisition Of Land Policy 2026
This report presents for adoption the revised Sale and Acquisition of Land Policy 2026.
The revised policy has been prepared as part of the scheduled review of Council’s policy framework and is timely in light of recent land sale activity undertaken by Council. While the revised policy retains the core legislative and strategic principles of the current policy, it provides a more detailed, structured and contemporary framework for the assessment, sale and acquisition of land.
Key improvements include a clearer scope and definitions, a mandatory land assessment process before sale, more detailed guidance on valuation and method of sale, stronger articulation of community engagement requirements, and a more developed acquisition framework. Collectively, these changes are intended to improve clarity, consistency, transparency and defensibility in future land transactions.
Council supported the following recommendations (7-0):
That Council:
1. Revoke the Sale and Acquisition of Land Policy 2021.
2. Adopt the Sale and Acquisition of Land Policy 2026.
3. Authorises the Chief Executive Officer to make minor administrative and editorial amendments to the Policy that do not materially alter its intent or operation.
7.4. Delegations And Authorisations Policy 2026
Council’s Delegations and Authorisations Policy was first adopted in 2023 in response to audit findings and is now due for review.
A review of the policy has been undertaken by Council officers. The review found the policy remains fit for purpose, with no substantive changes recommended beyond minor administrative updates.
Council supported the following recommendations (7-0):
That Council:
1. Revoke the Delegations & Authorisations Policy 2023.
2. Adopt the Delegations and Authorisations Policy 2026.
3. Authorises the Chief Executive Officer to make minor administrative and editorial amendments to the Policy that do not materially alter its intent or operation.
7.5. Public Transparency Policy 2026
This report presents a reviewed Public Transparency Policy for Council’s consideration. The revised policy updates the 2020 policy to better align with the Local Government Act 2020, reflect current practice, and incorporate improvements identified through benchmarking against comparable regional councils.
Council supported the following recommendations (7-0):
That Council:
1. Revoke the Council Transparency Policy 2020.
2. Adopt the Public Transparency Policy 2026.
3. Authorises the Chief Executive Officer to make minor administrative and editorial amendments to the Policy that do not materially alter its intent or operation.
7.6. Community Services Infrastructure Policy
The purpose of the Community Services Infrastructure Policy 2013 (the Policy) was to provide the general community, stakeholder organisations and Council staff with an understanding of Council’s objectives for and approach to providing for community services infrastructure in Warrnambool.
The Policy supported Council’s Community Services Infrastructure Plan developed in 2013.
With the development of the recent Community Services Futures Plan 2040 (CSFP), it is proposed that this policy be revoked given the strategic direction for planning for community infrastructure is inherent with the CSFP itself.
Consultation with internal council departments on the use of the Policy has indicated the policy has not been used as a reference for decision making.
Consultation with community, agencies and stakeholders has informed the development of the Community Services Futures Plan 2040 which defines the principles and strategic direction for planning for community infrastructure from this point forward. It is proposed that a formal policy statement is no longer required.
Council supported the following recommendation (7-0):
That Council revoke the Community Services Infrastructure Policy 2013.
7.7. Gender Equality Action Plan 2026-2030
Council is legislatively required to prepare and submit a Gender Equality Action Plan (GEAP) every four years as a defined entity under the Gender Equality Act 2020 (Vic). The GEAP is a mandatory planning instrument that sets out how Council will identify and address gender inequality in its workplace, based on evidence from a Workplace Gender Audit.
The Act requires Council to:
• Conduct a workplace gender audit.
• Develop strategies and actions to address identified gender inequalities.
• Submit the GEAP to the Public Sector Gender Equality Commissioner by 1 May 2026.
• Publish the GEAP on Council’s website.
The GEAP supports Council’s broader governance responsibilities by strengthening workforce equity, organisational culture, and compliance with state legislation. Failure to meet these requirements may result in regulatory intervention, including formal compliance action by the Commissioner.
Executive oversight is required to ensure Council meets its legal obligations, integrates the GEAP with existing workforce and corporate planning frameworks, and appropriately manages compliance and reputational risk.
Council supported the following recommendation (7-0):
That Council adopt the Gender Equality Action Plan 2026-2030.
7.8. Community Services Futures Plan 2040
The purpose of the Community Services Futures Plan 2040 (CSFP) is to ensure Council’s future decision-making and investment in community infrastructure and services is clear, equitable and based on evidence of need and insights from the community.
The CSFP:
• Provides a framework to guide decision making on future community infrastructure projects, funding requirements, advocacy efforts and partnership opportunities.
• Identifies future demand and location for services and infrastructure which are likely to be required with consideration of current supply and utilisation, including opportunities for optimisation of use of existing facilities.
• Inform business cases for community infrastructure projects, service plans and reviews, planning studies, masterplans and Development Contributions Plans.
• Inform strategic planning for Council. Council is currently in the process of developing the 'Warrnambool Futures 2040 And Beyond: Blueprint to a Sustainable City', a next generational, city-wide land use strategy that outlines a broad, integrated vision for the municipality, focusing on how future growth and development will be managed. The plan is expected to address key issues such as employment, tourism, housing supply, infrastructure, and environmental challenges in a strategic and holistic way.
In line with the Warrnambool Futures 2040, it is necessary to outline and update how community services and infrastructure need to adapt, change and restructure based on current and emerging needs, in line with projected growth of the city. The CSFP builds on the progress made through the 2013 Community Services and Infrastructure Plan. It reflects the current and changing community needs and the contemporary approach to community infrastructure planning.
The Plan focusses on Council-owned facilities but also considers the role of other providers including state government and the private and not-for-profit sectors. An assessment of facility utilisation, asset condition, fit for purpose and accessibility has underpinned the service need assessment and infrastructure requirements, taking into consideration the fundamental principles of community infrastructure planning, benchmarks and projections for the City.
Consultation with key stakeholders and the broader community has occurred from December to February and has provided a range of feedback. Amendments have been made to the plan following public consultation. These changes are representative of:
• New guiding principle - Community informed Infrastructure planning and service delivery recommendations will be informed by feedback from community and service providers.
• Adjustment to population forecast thus impacting supply and demand against relevant benchmarks. This has impacted meeting rooms, arts and culture spaces, education and aged care bed supply gap.
• Consideration of recommendations from North Dennington Development Contributions Plan 2014.
• Re-categorisation of Arts and culture facilities.
• Inclusion of community and stakeholder feedback where relevant. This is detailed in Attachment 1 Feedback and updates made to Plan.
The report, recommendations and actions aim to improve the network of community infrastructure across the city to ensure it is flexible and responsive to changing community and service needs, supports best practice service delivery models, supports partnership opportunities, and is financially sustainable. The challenge with the existing assets is many are not fit for purpose for current and future services or enable integration of services effectively. A commitment to balancing community need for provision of appropriate spaces with renewal and upgrade programs will be required rather than investing in new facilities. This plan has been developed with a predominant focus on creating opportunities for better spaces and improved utilisation within existing facilities.
Cr Benter moved and Cr Ziegeler seconded an amendment to the motion that in addition to the plan being adopted, it should also be reviewed in five years.
Council supported the motion (7-0).
7.9. Community Development Fund Guidelines 2026-2027
The Community Development Fund grant program, operating since 1999, reflects Council’s commitment to supporting a vibrant, inclusive and connected community. The program assists local not for profit groups and individuals to deliver projects, initiatives and activities, which meet the programs eligibility and objectives, that enhance the livability of the city and strengthen community connection.
The 2026-2027 guidelines have been expanded to include activities, initiatives, and campaigns that directly target key priority objectives from the Active Warrnambool Strategy 2025-2035, Creative Warrnambool Strategy 2025-2029, Healthy Warrnambool 2025-2029 and Green Warrnambool Strategy. The guidelines also provide detailed information on each category and how the applications will be assessed against each criteria.
This year a new category is proposed to be included - the Health & Wellbeing category is designed to provide opportunities for the community to identify and respond to local issues, concerns and priorities that align with the Healthy Warrnambool Plan 2025-2029.
Council supported the following recommendation (7-0):
That Council approves the Community Development Fund Guidelines for the 2026-2027 grant round.
7.10. Festivals And Events Fund Guidelines 2026 – 2027
Warrnambool City Council, through the Events and Promotion Team, supports, partners, facilitates and delivers approximately 150 events each year. The $200,000 Festivals and Events Fund plays a vital role in supporting events that contribute to the local economy, activate the city in off‑peak periods, and strengthen Warrnambool’s profile as a vibrant regional destination.
A review of the 2025/26 Festivals and Events Fund, considering community feedback and operational learnings, has identified several areas where updates to the guidelines would improve clarity, accessibility, and alignment with the fund’s objectives. These objectives include building a diverse annual calendar of events, increasing winter visitation, supporting new revenue for local businesses, fostering unique experiences, and encouraging sustainable event delivery.
Key recommendations for the 2026/27 Guidelines include:
• Business Events and Conferences: Establishing this as a standalone fund open year-round, with a dedicated $10,000 budget reallocated internally.
• Community Christmas Carols: Simplifying the funding model to provide up to $1,500 per event, assessed on application rather than estimated attendance.
• Eligibility of Charitable Organisations: Allowing charitable organisations to apply, while maintaining exclusions for events primarily focused on fundraising.
• Clarification of Ineligible Expenses: Adding items including equipment purchases and catering for guests to the expenses that will not be funded.
These changes are intended to improve the clarity and operation of the Festivals and Events Fund, ensuring it better supports event organisers, responds to emerging needs, and aligns with Council’s strategic direction for events across Warrnambool.
Council supported the following recommendation (7-0):
That the 2026-2027 Festivals and Events Fund Guidelines and Business Events and Conferences Guidelines be adopted.
7.11. Audit & Risk Committee Biannual Report: July - December 2025
A requirement within the Audit and Risk Committee Annual Workplan is to present a report on the activities of the Committee to the Council on a twice-yearly basis. The Audit and Risk Committee is a committee required to be established by legislation and requires membership of a majority of independent members with an independent chair. At Warrnambool there are three independent members including an independent chair. Councillor Blain and Councillor Walsh are Council representatives on this committee. The committee is also serviced by our independent internal audit and risk advisor, Crowe.
Council supported the following recommendation (7-0):
That the Audit & Risk Biannual Report of Activities –July to December 2025 be received.
7.12. Pp2025-0187 - 46 Pertobe Road
The application seeks approval for the construction of 15 modular accommodation units and associated works, including the removal of five non-native trees, within the Shipwreck Bay Caravan Park at 46 Pertobe Road, Warrnambool. The development includes internal access roads, parking, and landscaping improvements.
The proposal triggers permits under the Environmental Significance Overlay (ESO1 – Coastal Environs) and Significant Landscape Overlay (SLO1 – Coastal Hinterlands). Key planning considerations include site layout, building design, environmental impacts, and consistency with coastal and landscape objectives.
The development area avoids primary dune, with vegetation removal limited to five trees including 4 Norfolk Island Pine however it is highlighted that they are not located within the Pertobe Road Avenue which are subject to a heritage overlay.
Public notice received eight objections concerning design coherence, parking, tree removal, and investigating alternative sites.
Council officers recommend issuing a Notice of Decision to Grant a Permit, subject to conditions including final endorsed plans, landscaping, tree protection, stormwater management, flood mitigation and construction management.
Council did not support the following recommendation (3-4):
That Council having caused notice of Planning Application No. PP2025-0187 to be given under Section 52 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987 having considered all the matters required of the Planning and Environment Act 1987 decides to determine to Issue a Notice of Decision to Grant a Permit for the application under the provisions of the Warrnambool Planning Scheme in respect of the land known and described as 46 Pertobe Rd WARRNAMBOOL VIC 3280ALLOT Lot 11 SEC 4A CA PSH WAN TSH WARR, for the Buildings and Works (construction of accommodation units) and removal of vegetation in accordance with the endorsed plans, subject to conditions.
Cr Ziegeler moved and Cr Benter seconded an alternative motion that Council defer this matter until the May Council Meeting so options that retain the optimum number of cabins while retaining all trees can be considered.
Council supported the alternative motion (4-3).
7.13. Contract Award 2026038 - Aquazone Roof Renewal
Council publicly advertised a tender for the Design and Construction of the Aquazone Roof Renewal in accordance with Council’s Procurement Policy. The tender sought a suitably qualified and experienced contractor to undertake the detailed design and construction of a partial renewal of the roof and insulation system across the dry areas of the Aquazone facility, including renewal of the roof drainage system and associated works.
A tender evaluation was undertaken by the Tender Evaluation Panel in accordance with the approved evaluation criteria. While only one submission was received, the panel is satisfied that Bolden Construction’s submission represents value for money and demonstrates a strong understanding of the project requirements, risks, and operational constraints of working within a live, high-use community facility.
The Tender Evaluation Panel therefore recommends that Council award Contract No. 2026038 to Bolden Construction Pty Ltd.
Council supported the following recommendations (7-0):
That Council:
1. Award Contract No. 2026038 – Aquazone Roof Renewal to Bolden Construction Pty Ltd for the tendered amount $788,173.64 excluding GST;
2. Accept a Provisional Item value of $102,805.26 (excluding GST) to provide a contingency for unforeseen items and to facilitate the undertaking of any additional works as directed by the Superintendent, if required.
3. Authorise the Chief Executive Officer to sign, seal and vary the contract as required.
7.14. Advisory Committee Reports
This report contains the record of the Planning Advisory Committee meeting held on 3 March 2026.
Planning Advisory Committee Meeting held on 3 March 2026 – refer Attachment 1.
Council supported the following recommendation (7-0):
That the record of the Planning Advisory Committee meeting held on 3 March 2026, be received.
7.15. Informal Meetings of Council Reports
Section 80A(2) of the Local Government Act 1989 required the record of an Assembly of Councillors to be reported at an ordinary Council meeting.
Assembly of Councillor Records are no longer a requirement in the Local Government Act 2020 as of 24 October 2020. However, under Council’s Governance Rules, a summary of the matters discussed at the meeting are required to be tabled at the next convenient Council meeting and recorded in the minutes of that Council meeting.
The records of the following Informal Meetings of Council are enclosed:
1. Tuesday 10 March 2026 – refer Attachment 1.
2. Monday 16 March 2026 – refer Attachment 2.
3. Monday 23 March 2026 – refer Attachment 3.
4. Monday 30 March 2026 – refer Attachment 4.
Council supported the following recommendation (7-0):
That the record of the Informal Meetings of Council held on 10, 16, 23 and 30 March 2026, be received.
7.16. Mayoral & Chief Executive Officer Council Activities - Summary Report
This report summarises Mayoral and Chief Executive Officer Council activities since the last Ordinary Meeting which particularly relate to key social, economic and environmental issues of direct relevance to the Warrnambool community.
Council supported the following recommendation (7-0):
That the Mayoral & Chief Executive Officer Council Activities – Summary Report be received.
8. Notice of Motion
9. General Business
10. Urgent Business
11. Suspension Of Standing Orders
12. Section 66 Confidential Meeting
13. Resolution To Re-Open Meeting
14. Close Of Meeting