Message from the Mayor - 5 March 2025
Published on 05 March 2025
Advocating for appropriate housing growth
Following the release of the NSW Government’s lazy blanket policy for ill-informed development in Sydney, which ignores existing housing density, overrides heritage conservation areas and has no regard for community consultation or future impact on infrastructure, I have requested an urgent meeting with the NSW Premier and Minister for Planning & Public Spaces.
The precincts identified in the Government’s Low and Mid-rise housing reforms are simply not suitable for the level of development proposed. It is particularly difficult to understand the Government’s decision as Woollahra Council exceeded its 2016-2026 housing targets set by the Government and we are well-placed to plan for appropriate future development.
We are committed to supporting housing growth, but it must be done in a way that respects the existing character of our communities and takes into account the unique challenges faced by each area.
Council has endorsed strategies for areas such as Double Bay and Edgecliff that aim to deliver hundreds more new dwellings within already dense environments, while maintaining high standards for planning.
We will continue to advocate for responsible, place-based planning that meets the housing needs of the community while respecting its infrastructure and environmental constraints.
International Women’s Day event
Join me on 8 March for International Women’s Day at the Vaucluse Bowling Club and Community Facility, for a gentle yoga and mindfulness session, followed by a free lunch where you’ll have the chance to connect with fabulous women.
Afterwards, we’re hosting an art-making session with some incredible female artists, using recycled materials donated by Lee Mathews.
Tickets are $15, with proceeds going to the Women’s Housing Company, to support victims of family violence. Visit International Women’s Day to book.
Join me for a yoga session on International Women’s Day
Free grant workshops
Our latest round of Council grants opens in April, with funding available for programs and projects that work towards a connected, liveable, vibrant and creative community.
To help you with your application, we are hosting a series of free information sessions and workshops on 11 and 20 March on how to address the selection criteria to maximise your chance of a successful application.
Book in now to learn effective ways to work with communities, create partnerships, and identify funding opportunities. Visit Woollahra Grants for further details and to reserve your spot.