Home › Meetings › Finance and Governance Committee — 2026-09-15
Finance and Governance Committee — 2026-09-15
Projects discussed: School Road Upgrade
1. Revised Media and Corporate Communications Policy
Resolution: Moved by Councillor Andrew Antoniolli:
Finance and Governance Committee
Meeting Agenda
15 September
2026
Doc ID No: A13232484
ITEM: 1
SUBJECT: Revised Media and Corporate Communications Policy
AUTHOR: Media and Communications Manager
DATE: 13 August 2026
Executive Summary
This is a report concerning recommended revisions to the Media and Corporate Communications Policy aligned with the amended legislative requirements.
This report was laid on the table at the Finance and Governance Committee of 11 August 2026 until the September Finance and Governance Committee.
RECOMMENDATION
That the revised policy titled ‘Media and Corporate Communications Policy’ as detailed in Attachment 3, be adopted.
RELATED PARTIES
There are no discernible related party conflicts of interest associated with this report or its recommendation.
CORPORATE PLAN Theme
A Trusted and Leading Organisation
Purpose of Report/Background
The existing Media and Corporate Communications Policy (Attachment 1) was adopted at Council Ordinary Meeting on 25 August 2022 and is due for review August 2026.
Since its adoption, the Local Government (Empowering Councils) and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2026 was passed by the Queensland Parliament on 5 March 2026 and received Royal Assent on 11 March 2026.
The amendments reinforce that the Mayor is the official spokesperson of the local government, about local government matters, while also confirming that councillors may communicate with the community about local government matters in their capacity as elected representatives, other than as the official spokesperson.
As the existing Media and Corporate Communications Policy was adopted prior to the commencement of these legislative reforms, it contains some provisions that are no longer consistent with the amended Act.
A review of the policy has been undertaken to ensure council's media and communications framework is aligned with the amended legislative requirements, reflects the Department's guidance regarding the Mayor as official spokesperson, preserves councillors' rights to communicate with the community, and provides clear operational guidance for councillors, staff and the Media and Communications section.
Legal IMPLICATIONS
Local Government (Empowering Councils) and Other Legislations Amendment Act 2026
policy implications
Media and Corporate Communications Policy is recommended for amendment.
RISK MANAGEMENT IMPLICATIONS
There are no discernible risk management implications associated with this report or its recommendation.
Financial/RESOURCE IMPLICATIONS
There are no discernible financial/resource implications associated with this report or its recommendation.
COMMUNITY and OTHER CONSULTATION
A Councillor Workshop on the Media and Corporate Communications Policy was held on
27 April 2026.
Council CEO distributed the proposed amended Media and Corporate Communications Policy to Mayor and Councillors by email on 12 June 2026.
Feedback was provided by one Councillor and two minor amendments were made to the attached version with all track changes showing. These two changes were to the final sentence of section 6 and the final sentence of section 7.2.
Clarification was sought by one Councillor and a response to the request was shared with all Councillors.
Conclusion
The amended Media and Corporate Communications Policy aligns with the Local Government (Empowering Councils) and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2026.
HUMAN RIGHTS IMPLICATIONS
HUMAN RIGHTS IMPACTS
NON-DISCRETIONARY DECISION
The recommendation states that the revised policy titled Media and Corporate Communications Policy as detailed in Attachment 3, be adopted . Council has no ability to act differently/make a different decision because of Local Government (Empowering Councils) and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2026 that requires Council to ensure council's communications framework is aligned with the amended legislative requirements, reflects the Department's guidance regarding the Mayor as official spokesperson, preserves councillors' rights to communicate with the community, and provides clear operational guidance for councillors, staff and the Media, Communications and Engagement Branch . Therefore, while the proposed decision may not be compatible with human rights Council’s decision will not be unlawful under the Human Rights Act 2019 .
Attachments
1.
Media and Corporate Communications Policy - current ⇩
2.
Draft Media and Corporate Communications Policy - Tracked ⇩
3.
Draft Media and Corporate Communications Policy - Clean ⇩
Brenton Waters
Media and Communications Manager
I concur with the recommendations contained in this report.
Sonia Cooper
Chief Executive Officer
“Together, we proudly enhance the quality of life for our community”
Finance and Governance Committee
Meeting AGENDA
15 September
2026
Item 1 / Attachment 1.
Finance and Governance Committee
Meeting AGENDA
15 September
2026
Item 1 / Attachment 2.
Finance and Governance Committee
Meeting AGENDA
15 September
2026
Item 1 / Attachment 3.
Finance and Governance Committee
Meeting Agenda
15 September
2026
Finance and Governance Committee NO. 2026(06)
11 August 2026
Minutes
COUNCILLORS’ ATTENDANCE:
Councillor Paul Tully (Chairperson); Councillors Jacob Madsen (Deputy Chairperson), Mayor Teresa Harding, Deputy Mayor Nicole Jonic, Andrew Antoniolli, Jim Madden, Pye Augustine, Marnie Doyle and David Martin (Observer)
COUNCILLOR’S APOLOGIES:
Nil
OFFICERS’ ATTENDANCE:
Chief Executive Officer (Sonia Cooper), General Manager Corporate Services (Matt Smith), General Manager Environment and Sustainability (Kaye Cavanagh), General Manager Community, Cultural and Economic Development (Ben Pole), Acting General Manager Planning and Regulatory Services (Nathan Rule), Manager Compliance (Alisha Connaughton), Manager Strategy Governance and Performance (Haiden Taylor), Chief Financial Officer (Christina Binoya), Property Services Manager (Alicia Rieck), Media and Communications Manager (Brenton Waters), Senior Media Advisor (Darrell Giles), Coordinator Communications (Lucy Stone), Chief of Staff - Office of the Mayor (Melissa Fitzgerald), Senior Communications and Policy Officer (Jodie Richter) and Technical Services Officer (Harrison Cate)
Welcome to Country or Acknowledgement of Country
Councillor Paul Tully (Chairperson) invited Deputy Mayor Nicole Jonic to deliver the Acknowledgement of Country
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST IN MATTERS ON THE AGENDA
Nil
BUSINESS OUTSTANDING
Moved by Councillor Andrew Antoniolli:
Seconded by Councillor Jim Madden:
That the response to the Question on Notice be received and noted.
4.1. Question on Notice - Slumping of Riverbank - River Heart Bank Stabilisation Project
Councillor David Martin (Observer) sought information on the slumping of the
Riverbank under the Bradfield Bridge as well as the rocks on the River Heart side as well.
Response provided to Councillors on 24 July 2026
RIVERHEART – At the time of the original event temporary work was undertaken to hold the remaining bank in place until permanent work was planned. As much as possible of the existing slumped bank was reshaped and loose material was removed without entering the river itself. To protect the existing bank Council undertook immediate work to make safe and secure.
RIVERLINK – Rock placement on the Riverlink side of the river has been reinstated to the
banks original form and slope. Rocks have been placed at the river’s bank edge in line with
the banks former slope profile at the water line. Additionally, rocks are embedded with
seeding to encourage vegetation growth over time to reach a more natural riverbank
state. Due to multiple events over time the river bank has sustained significant loss of
material.
AFFIRMATIVE NEGATIVE
Councillors: Councillors:
Tully Nil
Madsen
Harding
Jonic
Antoniolli
Madden
Augustine
The motion was put and carried.
Confirmation of Minutes
1. Confirmation of Minutes of the Finance and Governance Committee No. 2026(05) of 16 June 2026
Recommendation
Moved by Deputy Mayor Nicole Jonic:
Sec
3. Update to Artificial Intelligence Policy
Finance and Governance Committee
Meeting Agenda
15 September
2026
Doc ID No: A12997260
ITEM: 3
SUBJECT: Update to Artificial Intelligence Policy
AUTHOR: Business Support Officer
DATE: 11 June 2026
Executive Summary
This is a report concerning updates to Section 12 and Section 16 of Council’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy.
Recommendation/s
That the updates to Section 12 and Section 16 of Council’s Artificial (AI) Policy, as detailed in Attachments 1, 2 and 3, be approved.
RELATED PARTIES
There was no declaration of conflicts of interest.
ifuture Theme
A Trusted and Leading Organisation
Purpose of Report/Background
The existing Policy, adopted in July 2024, requires the publication of a public-facing register of all Council AI systems with potential community impact. Recent advice from our Internal Audit Branch and a review of Council’s cybersecurity posture identify that publishing such a register introduces unnecessary security risk, as it may expose system information that could be exploited by malicious actors.
To address these concerns, it is proposed that Council transition from a public AI Register to an internal, staff-accessible register. The revised approach maintains transparency and accountability through lawful access processes (e.g., Right to Information) while removing unnecessary cyber exposure. As the proposed wording changes the intent of the section, it constitutes a formal policy amendment requiring full adoption through the standard governance process.
The Artificial Intelligence Policy was presented to the ICT Steering Committee on 4 February 2026 and an Action from this meeting was for the Policy to be presented to the next available Councillor Briefing and Workshop Session, this being 4 August 2026.
It was mentioned at the Audit and Risk Management Committee on 6 May 2026 that there were updates to the Artificial Intelligence Policy and members present at this meeting asked that a “For Information Only” Report be submitted to the Committee on 19 August 2026.
Legal IMPLICATIONS
This report and its recommendations are consistent with the following legislative provisions:
Local Government Act 2009
policy implications
There are no Policy implications.
RISK MANAGEMENT IMPLICATIONS
N/A.
Financial/RESOURCE IMPLICATIONS
N/A.
COMMUNITY and OTHER CONSULTATION
N/A.
Conclusion
That the updated Artificial Intelligence Policy be presented to the Finance and Governance Committee, as detailed in Attachments 1, 2 and 3 of this report.
HUMAN RIGHTS IMPLICATIONS
HUMAN RIGHTS IMPACTS
RECEIVE AND NOTE REPORT
Recommendation: That the updates to Section 12 and Section 16 of Council’s Artificial (AI) Policy, as detailed in Attachments 1, 2 and 3, be approved. Therefore, while the proposed decision may not be compatible with human rights Council’s decision will not be unlawful under the Human Rights Act 2019 .
Attachments
1.
Policy - Artificial Intelligence - ORIGINAL ⇩
2.
Policy - Artificial Intelligence - TRACKED CHANGES ⇩
3.
Policy - Artificial Intelligence - CLEAN SKIN ⇩
Leanne Sherriff
Business Support Officer
I concur with the recommendations contained in this report.
David Armstrong
Acting Chief Information Officer
I concur with the recommendations contained in this report.
Matt Smith
General Manager (Corporate Services)
“Together, we proudly enhance the quality of life for our community”
Finance and Governance Committee
Meeting AGENDA
15 September
2026
Item 3 / Attachment 1.
Finance and Governance Committee
Meeting AGENDA
15 September
2026
Item 3 / Attachment 2.
Finance and Governance Committee
Meeting AGENDA
15 September
2026
Item 3 / Attachment 3.
4. Proposed Acquisitions of Land For INF04371 School Road Upgrade Project
Finance and Governance Committee
Meeting Agenda
15 September
2026
Doc ID No: A13182165
ITEM: 4
SUBJECT: Proposed Acquisitions of Land For INF04371 School Road Upgrade Project
AUTHOR: Senior Property Officer (Capital Delivery Projects)
DATE: 24 August 2026
Executive Summary
This is a report seeking Council resolution to the acquisition of land requirements for the INF04371 School Road Upgrade project (The Project). The Project’s associated works include the upgrade of School Road to a four-lane median-divided road, provision of dedicated cycle lanes and shared paths, signalised intersections and improvements to access for public transport and emergency vehicles. The Project is intended to enhance road safety, network capacity, and transport connectivity to the surrounding area.
RECOMMENDATION
A. That Council resolve to purchase or acquire the land detailed in Confidential Attachment 2 for road purposes.
B. That in the first instance, the method of acquiring the land shall be by agreement with the affected landowner/s pursuant to the Property Law Act 1974.
C. That should acquisition by agreement under the Property Law Act 1974 not be achieved, the method of acquisition shall be pursuant to Section 5(1)(b)(i) of the Acquisition of Land Act 1967 , where Council as “constructing authority” proceed with acquisitions in accordance with Division 3, Acquisition of Land Act 1967 ; however, if agreement cannot be reached, or operational timeframes intervene, the method of acquiring the subject land will be in accordance with Division 2, Acquisition of Land Act 1967 .
D. That pursuant to Section 257(1)(b) of the Local Government Act 2009 , Council resolve to delegate to the Chief Executive Officer the power to take “ contractual action” pursuant to section 238 of the Regulation, in order to implement Council’s decision.
RELATED PARTIES
· Landowners identified in Confidential Attachment 1
· Perceived conflicts of interest have been identified and are being appropriately managed in accordance with Council's governance process.
CORPORATE PLAN Theme
Vibrant and Growing
Purpose of Report/Background
The School Road corridor between Redbank Plains Road and Alawoona Street currently operates as a two ‑ lane road servicing a rapidly expanding residential catchment, three primary schools, early learning centres, local businesses, bus routes, and major community facilities. The corridor also has two waterway crossings and forms part of the city’s principal cycle network, making it an important link for pedestrians and cyclists.
As Ipswich continues to grow, this corridor is increasingly relied upon to move people safely and efficiently. Upgrading School Road to a four ‑ lane median ‑ divided road, with signalised intersections and improved active transport facilities, is essential to meeting future travel demands and supporting the significant development occurring in surrounding suburbs.
This upgrade reflects council’s commitment to building a safer, more efficient, and future ‑ ready road network aligned with the city’s long ‑ term transport strategy, iGO .
The Project will provide key benefits including:
· Improved traffic flow by widening sections of the road to ease bottlenecks and reduce congestion, especially during peak school and commuter hours.
· Enhanced safety for all users with new pedestrian crossings at traffic signals, dedicated bike lanes, shared pathways, improved bus stops and upgraded lighting will make the road safer for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers alike.
· Upgrades and signalisation to key intersections with traffic signals and turning lanes to improve safety, reduce delays, and support smoother traffic movement.
· Support for future growth to accommodate increased traffic volumes and support new residential and commercial developments.
Council will manage the upgrades along School Road using a staged approach:
· Stage 1: Upgrades to the Halletts Road and Willow Road intersections.
· Stage 2: Upgrades north of the Halletts Road and Willow Road intersection, and upgrades to the Cashmere Street intersection, including Vicki Street realignment.
· Stage 3: Upgrades north of the Cashmere Street and Vicki Street intersection through to Redbank Plains Road.
Land requirements have been identified from thirty-eight (38) privately owned properties. These acquisitions are necessary to facilitate road infrastructure including drainage and services. Property details listed in Confidential Attachment 1 .
In addition to the above, one (1) state government property and six (6) Council-owned properties including one (1) drainage reserve within the Project corridor require partial road dedications. Property details listed in Confidential Attachment 1 . The road dedication requirements associated with the Council owned properties will be subject to a separate report to a future Committee.
Property Acquisition Plans ( Confidential Attachment 2 ) for private lots has been attached and remain subject to further refinement as the project progresses. These plans reflect the maximum anticipated land requirements at this stage of the project.
Legal IMPLICATIONS
This report and its recommendations are consistent with the following legislative provisions:
· Local Government Act 2009
· Acquisition of Land Act 1967 (Qld)
· Land Title Act 1994
· Land Act 1994
· Property Law Act 1974
policy implications
The matter of the report is consistent with Council’s approved Property Acquisition and Disposal Policy .
RISK MANAGEMENT IMPLICATIONS
The following key risks may apply to council if the land requirements are not secured:
Operational Risks
Associated upgrade works may be unable to be completed within the required private property boundaries, causing potential project delays, increased costs, and disruptions to planned construction activities.
Reputational Risks
Council may be perceived as unable to deliver essential infrastructure required to support population growth and approved development.
Delays to the road upgrade may result in dissatisfaction from residents, developers, businesses, and other stakeholders who rely on the timely provision of transport infrastructure.
Safety Risks
School Road between Alawoona Street and Redbank Plains Road, currently operates as a two-lane undivided road and is struggling to meet the demands of a growing community. With multiple schools, childcare centres, and local businesses along the corridor, traffic congestion and safety concerns may increase.
Financial/RESOURCE IMPLICATIONS
Costs associated with land acquisitions, have been identified through long-term financial forecasting and will be reviewed annually.
Council's preferred approach is to acquire the required land by negotiated agreement with landowners. However, where agreement cannot be reached and compulsory acquisitions are necessary, any costs associated with compensation claims, legal expenses, and Land Court proceedings (where required) will be funded through the project budget and managed as part of the overall acquisition costs.
COMMUNITY and OTHER CONSULTATION
Internal Stakeholder Engagement
Asset and Infrastructure Services conducted briefing sessions with the Executive Leadership Team, the Mayor and Councillors during the initial proposed engagement and design phase.
Property Services will continue to work closely with Council’s Capital Delivery Branch, which supports the recommendations outlined in this report, to collaboratively deliver the recommended outcomes.
External Stakeholder Engagement
A targeted stakeholder engagement program is currently underway to inform affected property owners, residents, landlords, tenants and key stakeholders about the project, associated land requirements and potential impacts. Engagement activities include direct consultation with affected property owners, doorknocking, community consultation sessions, on-street engagement, one-on-one meetings and ongoing communications through multiple channels.
Engagement with the wider community w
Mentions: Alawoona Street · Cashmere Street · Halletts Road · Redbank Plains Road · School Road · Upgrading School Road · Vicki Street · Willow Road · Redbank Plains · Ipswich
5. Proposed Surrender and Acquisition of Easement for INF04371 School Road Upgrade Project
Finance and Governance Committee
Meeting Agenda
15 September
2026
Doc ID No: A13302549
ITEM: 5
SUBJECT: Proposed Surrender and Acquisition of Easement for INF04371 School Road Upgrade Project
AUTHOR: Senior Property Officer (Capital Delivery Projects)
DATE: 17 August 2026
Executive Summary
This is a report seeking Council resolution to effect a surrender of an existing drainage easement and to acquire a replacement drainage easement (as detailed in Confidential Attachment 2 ). The proposed surrender and acquisition will secure access and maintenance rights over the future realigned stormwater infrastructure to be delivered as part of the School Road Upgrade Project works.
RECOMMENDATION
A. That Council declare that the existing drainage Easement detailed in Confidential Attachment 3, will no longer encompass the future realignment of Stormwater Infrastructure and grant consent to the surrender of the Easement.
B. That Council resolve to enter into, or acquire, an easement over part of land detailed in Confidential Attachment 2, (Council file reference number 6652 ), for a drainage purposes.
C. That in the first instance the method of acquisition shall be by the affected landowner/s granting the easement by agreement, pursuant to the Property Law Act 2023 .
D. That should granting by agreement fail, Council shall as “constructing authority” pursuant to Section 6(1) of the Acquisition of Land Act 1967 proceed to acquire the subject easement in accordance with Division 3, Acquisition of Land Act 1967 ; however, where agreement still cannot be reached, or operational timeframes intervene, the method of acquiring the subject easement will be in accordance with Division 2, Acquisition of Land Act 1967.
RELATED PARTIES
· Landowners of the property identified in Confidential Attachment 1
· There were no declarations of conflicts of interest.
CORPORATE PLAN Theme
Vibrant and Growing
Purpose of Report/Background
The School Road corridor between Redbank Plains Road and Alawoona Street currently operates as a two ‑ lane road, servicing a rapidly expanding residential catchment, three primary schools, early learning centres, local businesses, bus routes, and major community facilities. It also includes two waterway crossings and forms part of the city’s principal cycle network, making it an important link for pedestrians and cyclists.
As Ipswich continues to grow, this corridor is increasingly relied upon to move people safely and efficiently. Upgrading School Road to a four ‑ lane median ‑ divided road, with signalised intersections and improved active transport facilities, is essential to meeting future travel demands and supporting the significant development occurring in surrounding suburbs.
This upgrade reflects council’s commitment to building a safer, more efficient, and future ‑ ready road network aligned with the city’s long ‑ term transport strategy, iGO .
The Project will provide key benefits including:
· Improved traffic flow by widening sections of the road to ease bottlenecks and reduce congestion, especially during peak school and commuter hours.
· Enhanced safety for all users with new pedestrian crossings at traffic signals, dedicated bike lanes, shared pathways, improved bus stops and upgraded lighting will make the road safer for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers alike.
· Upgrades and signalisation to key intersections with traffic signals and turning lanes to improve safety, reduce delays, and support smoother traffic movement.
· Support for future growth to accommodate increased traffic volumes and support new residential and commercial developments.
Council will manage the upgrades along School Road using a staged approach:
· Stage 1: Upgrades to the Halletts Road and Willow Road intersections.
· Stage 2: Upgrades north of the Halletts Road and Willow Road intersection, and upgrades to the Cashmere Street intersection, including Vicki Street realignment.
· Stage 3: Upgrades north of the Cashmere Street and Vicki Street intersection through to Redbank Plains Road.
An easement requirement has been identified over one (1) privately owned property.
The property has an existing drainage easement in favour of Council. As part of the School Road Upgrade Project, the existing stormwater drainage infrastructure at this location will be upgraded with a realignment proposed. The proposed drainage infrastructure extends beyond the boundaries of the existing easement which will not adequately protect the entirety of the proposed upgraded drainage assets.
Accordingly, the existing easement will need to be surrendered and replaced with a larger easement to accommodate the upgraded infrastructure and ensure Council retains the necessary rights for future access and maintenance of the drainage assets.
A plan showing the location and extent of the proposed replacement easement is provided in Confidential Attachment 2 .
Legal IMPLICATIONS
This report and its recommendations are consistent with the following legislative provisions:
Acquisition of Land Act 1967 (Qld)
Property Law Act 2023
Local Government Regulation 2012
Land Title Act 1994
policy implications
The matter of the report is consistent with Council’s approved Property Acquisition and Disposal Policy .
RISK MANAGEMENT IMPLICATIONS
Operational Risks
If the replacement easement cannot be secured by Council, associated upgrade works may be unable to be completed within the private property boundaries, causing potential project delays, increased costs, and disruptions to planned construction activities.
Financial/RESOURCE IMPLICATIONS
Costs associated with easement acquisition are identified through long-term financial forecasting and will be reviewed annually.
Council's preferred approach is to acquire the easement by negotiated agreement with landowners. However, where agreement cannot be reached and compulsory acquisition is necessary, any costs associated with a compensation claim, legal expenses, and Land Court proceedings (if required) will be funded through the project budget and managed as part of the overall acquisition costs.
COMMUNITY and OTHER CONSULTATION
Internal Stakeholder Engagement
Property Services continues to work with Council’s Capital Delivery Branch who support the recommendations within this report and will be working collaboratively to achieve the recommended outcomes.
External Stakeholder Engagement
A targeted stakeholder engagement program is currently underway to inform affected property owners, residents, landlords, tenants and key stakeholders about the project, associated land requirements and potential impacts. Engagement activities include direct consultation with affected property owners, door-knocking, community consultation sessions, on-street engagement, one-on-one meetings and ongoing communications through multiple channels.
Engagement with the wider community will continue to be delivered through Council’s ‘Shape Your Ipswich’ website, including ongoing project updates and a facility for the community to submit questions, feedback or concerns to Council.
Conclusion
It is recommended that Council proceed with the compulsory acquisition of the easement as described in Confidential Attachment 2 , as a “Constructing Authority” under the Acquisition of Land Act 1967 (Qld) .
Council will seek to acquire the easement by way of agreement with the landowners. However, if this cannot be achieved, Council will exercise its power as a constructing authority under the Acquisition of Land Act 1967 (Qld) and make an application to the relevant Minister for the easement to be taken.
HUMAN RIGHTS IMPLICATIONS
HUMAN RIGHTS IMPACTS
OTHER DECISION
(a) What is the Act/Decision being made?
Acquisitions of Easement for INF04371 – School Road Upgrade
(b) What human rights are affected?
Property rights (section 24) – protects the rights of all persons to own property (real and personal property) and to not be arbitrarily deprived of property.
(c) How are the human rights limited?
Where
Mentions: Alawoona Street · Cashmere Street · Halletts Road · Redbank Plains Road · School Road · Upgrading School Road · Vicki Street · Willow Road · Redbank Plains · Ipswich
6. Minor Amendments to fees and charges - Social Impact Assessments, Community Benefit Agreements and Priority Development Area (PDA) Inspection Processes
Finance and Governance Committee
Meeting Agenda
15 September
2026
Doc ID No: A13165341
ITEM: 6
SUBJECT: Minor Amendments to fees and charges - Social Impact Assessments, Community Benefit Agreements and Priority Development Area (PDA) Inspection Processes
AUTHOR: Acting Business Support Manager
DATE: 24 July 2026
Executive Summary
This is a report concerning minor amendments to the 2026-2027 Register of Fees and Charges – Planning and Development section.
Recommendation/s
That the proposed amendments to Fees and Charges for planning and development, as outlined in Attachment 1, be adopted.
RELATED PARTIES
This report deals with the adoption of the pricing of fees and charges and does not specifically reference any third party.
CORPORATE PLAN Theme
A Trusted and Leading Organisation
Purpose of Report/Background
The 2026-2027 Register of Fees and Charges were approved by Council at the meetings held on 26 March 2026 (for health and regulatory services fees), and 19 May 2026 for all other fees.
It is proposed to make additions to the Register proposed in relation to the Planning and Development section to respond to emerging issues. The proposed amendments, are outlined in Attachment 1, and include:
· A new section and fee for Council’s role in processing Social Impact Assessments and Community Benefit Agreements;
· A new fee for Inspection Fees in the Ripley PDA.
Social Impact Assessments and Community Benefit Agreements
The Queensland Government introduced the Social Impact Assessment (SIA) and Community Benefit Agreement (CBA) framework as part of the new community benefit system under the Planning (Social Impact and Community Benefit) and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2025 . The legislation commenced on 18 July 2025, requiring proponents of prescribed renewable energy developments, including battery storage facilities, wind farms and large-scale solar projects, to undertake a Social Impact Assessment and enter into a Community Benefit Agreement with the relevant local government before lodging a development application. The reforms were designed to ensure that local communities are actively engaged in the assessment process and share in the social and economic benefits of renewable energy developments.
The addition of fees is intended to cover administrative costs associated with Council’s involvement in the undertaking of a Renewable Energy Community Benefit Scheme, and for managing previously executed Community Benefit Agreements. Section 97(2) of the Local Government Act 2009 allows Council to set cost recovery fees for the costs associated with carrying out an activity in relation to the preparation Social Impact Assessments (SIA) and Community Benefit Agreements (CBA) under section 106ZM(1) of the Planning Act 2016 .
A SIA and CBA is intended to ensure that renewable energy developments provide tangible benefits to the communities affected by them, particularly where the development may create significant social impacts. The proposed fees ensure Council can recover the costs associated with reviewing SIA’s and entering into and managing CBA’s.
Inspection Fees – Ripley PDA
Addition of inspection fees for Ripley PDA where the development is assessed and approved by the Minister for Economic Development Queensland (MEDQ). While Council retains its delegated assessment powers, the MEDQ holds the overarching framework and legislative head of power. This means that proponents may, at any time, elect to lodge their application with the MEDQ delegate. In this scenario, MEDQ would be required to accept and assess a properly made application.
Where a proponent elects to pursue an application directly with the MEDQ, Council may still be required to undertake inspections or provide technical input. The proposed inspection fees ensure that Council can recover the costs associated with these activities and are not left to absorb the resource implications of developments progressing through an MEDQ approval pathway.
Legal IMPLICATIONS
This report and its recommendations are consistent with the following legislative provisions:
Local Government Act 2009
Planning Act 2016
policy implications
The proposed amendments are consistent with Council’s planning scheme and policies.
Fees and charges are established in accordance with Council’s Revenue Policy.
RISK MANAGEMENT IMPLICATIONS
The intent of the proposed amendments to the register of fees and charges is to include charges for the administrative costs to Council to process the community benefit applications and for the ongoing management of the applications, and inspection fees for developments within the Priority Development Area (PDA).
Financial/RESOURCE IMPLICATIONS
The new proposed fees outlined in this report are subject to the cost recovery requirements of section 97 of the Local Government Act 2009 . The fees in this report will have a minor financial and resourcing impact on Council, with potential variations in resourcing requirements able to be absorbed within the existing budget.
COMMUNITY and OTHER CONSULTATION
Due to the administrative nature of the proposed amendments, consultation with external parties was not warranted.
Conclusion
It is recommended that Council approve the proposed variations and additions to the Register of Fees and Charges.
HUMAN RIGHTS IMPLICATIONS
HUMAN RIGHTS IMPACTS
OTHER DECISION
(a) What is the Act/Decision being made?
Recommendation seeks Council approval for proposed minor amendments to Fees and Charges for planning and development.
(b) What human rights are affected?
The decision has the potential to impact human rights in relation to recognition and equality before the law.
(c) How are the human rights limited?
The amendments to the application of planning and development fees may impact some customers requiring these services as part of planning and development activities.
(d) Is there a good reason for limiting the relevant rights? Is the limitation fair and reasonable?
The fees and charges proposed amendments do not apply to core Council services or public goods, but rather to services which are optional to take up and benefit an individual. Where charges are applied, this is enabled by and governed by legislative provisions. For services which can be provided by a Local Government only, Council is required to charge no more than cost recovery.
(e) Conclusion
The decision is consistent with human rights.
Attachments
1.
Proposed Minor Amendments to Register of Fees & Charges ⇩
Hollie Gamble
Acting Business Support Manager
I concur with the recommendations contained in this report.
Brett Davey
General Manager (Planning and Regulatory Services)
“Together, we proudly enhance the quality of life for our community”
Finance and Governance Committee
Meeting AGENDA
15 September
2026
Item 6 / Attachment 1.
Mentions: Ripley
7. Rates Concession Report
Finance and Governance Committee
Meeting Agenda
15 September
2026
Doc ID No: A13197186
ITEM: 7
SUBJECT: Rates Concession Report
AUTHOR: Treasury Accounting Manager
DATE: 12 August 2026
Executive Summary
This is a report concerning a request for a concession for general rates.
Recommendation/s
A. That having satisfied the criteria in s120 of the Local Government Regulation 2012 , as well as the Rates Concession Policy, that the properties listed be granted a concession on the differential general rate backdated to the relevant date of application.
4 Goldleaf Court, Ripley
9 Daisy Street, Ripley
17 Blackstone Crescent, Ripley
71 Blackstone Crescent, Ripley
3 Midnight Street, Ripley
11 Daisy Street, Ripley
63 Blackstone Crescent, Ripley
10 Midnight Street, Ripley
6 Blackstone Crescent, Ripley
67 Blackstone Crescent, Ripley
B. That having satisfied the criteria in s120 of the Local Government Regulation 2012 , as well as the Rates Concession Policy, the properties at 55 & 59 Sarah Drive, Yamanto, be granted a 100 % concession on the differential general rate backdated to the relevant date of application.
C. That having satisfied the criteria in s120 of the Local Government Regulation 2012 , as well as the Rates Concession Policy, the property at 29 Marhaba Cour, Redbank Plains, be granted a concession on the differential general rate from the commencement of building completion.
D. That having satisfied the criteria in s120 of the Local Government Regulation 2012 , as well as the Rates Concession Policy, that the properties listed be granted a concession on the differential general rate backdated to the relevant date of application.
36 Moffatt Street, Ipswich
12 Glebe Road, Newtown
10 Glebe Road, Newtown
97 Pine Mountain Road, Brassall
10A Glebe Road, Newtown
RELATED PARTIES
Councillors and Senior Managers should consider YWCA Australia, Endeavour Foundation, Community Housing (QLD) Limited and Apprenticeships Queensland Limited (previously known as Ipswich Moreton Community Apprenticeship Scheme) for the purpose of related party disclosure.
CORPORATE PLAN Theme
A Trusted and Leading Organisation
Purpose of Report/Background
Council’s Rates Concession Policy allows for a 100% concession for general rates on the below properties that meet the criteria outlined in the policy as listed in the recommendation of this report.
YWCA Australia have requested a concession for general rate on the properties listed below. YWCA National Housing is a not-for-profit organisation established to provide benevolent relief to people experiencing poverty, homelessness, violence, or disadvantage, particularly women and children.
4 Goldleaf Court, Ripley
9 Daisy Street, Ripley
17 Blackstone Crescent, Ripley
71 Blackstone Crescent, Ripley
3 Midnight Street, Ripley
11 Diasy Street, Ripley
63 Blackstone Crescent, Ripley
10 Midnight Street, Ripley
6 Blackstone Crescent, Ripley
67 Blackstone Crescent, Ripley
Endeavour Foundation have requested a concession for general rate on 55 & 59 Sarah Drive, Yamanto QLD 4305. Endeavour Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation that is a diverse community organisation working together with people with a disability so that they have real possibilities to live life to the full, provide accommodation which supports tailored to their individual needs.
Community Housing (QLD) Limited have requested a concession for general rate on
29 Marhaba Court, REDBANK PLAINS QLD 4301. Community Housing (QLD) Limited is a not-for-profit company delivering social and affordable housing for vulnerable and low to moderate income people who are unable to secure long-term affordable housing.
Apprenticeships Queensland Limited have requested a concession for general rate on properties listed below: Apprenticeships Queensland address youth unemployment in the Ipswich and West Moreton Council areas. They have been creating construction employment opportunities through Building Futures programs, renovating houses with Apprentices to begin or sustain their careers as Apprentices and eventually become skilled tradespersons.
36 Moffatt Street, Ipswich
12 Glebe Road, Newtown
10 Glebe Road, Newtown
97 Pine Mountain Road, Brassall
10A Glebe Road, Newtown
Legal IMPLICATIONS
This report and its recommendations are consistent with the following legislative provisions:
Local Government Act 2009
policy implications
This report and its recommendations are consistent with the Rates Concession Policy
RISK MANAGEMENT IMPLICATIONS
There are no risk management implications associated with this report.
Financial/RESOURCE IMPLICATIONS
Granting of this 100% concession will result in a reduction of general rates revenue of approximately as per below.
· 4 Goldleaf Court, 3 & 10 Midnight Street, 9 & 11 Daisy Street, and 6, 17,63,67 &
71 Blackstone Crescent Ripley- $19,920.60
· 55 & 59 Sarah Drive, YAMANTO QLD 4305 - $4,676.40
· 29 Marhaba Court, REDBANK PLAINS QLD 4301 - $70,400.00
· 36 Moffatt Street, Ipswich, 10,10A and 12 Glebe Road, Newtown and 97 Pine Mountain Road, Brassall - $19,382.60
COMMUNITY and OTHER CONSULTATION
The contents of this report did not require any community consultation
Conclusion
YWCA Australia, Endeavour Foundation, Community Housing (QLD) Limited and Apprenticeships Queensland Limited, all satisfy the requirements of the Rates Concession Policy as an eligible property owner. Further, the properties are being used for purposes that are consistent with the requirements of the Rates Concession Policy, to be eligible for a 100% concession for general rates. The application of the Rates Concession Policy in this instance is consistent with Revenue Policy and the Budget and Rating Resolutions.
HUMAN RIGHTS IMPLICATIONS
HUMAN RIGHTS IMPACTS
OTHER DECISION
(a) What is the Act/Decision being made?
The recommendation proposes a granting of 100% Council remission on the properties listed.
(b) What human rights are affected?
No human rights are affected by this decision.
(c) How are the human rights limited?
Not Applicable
(d) Is there a good reason for limiting the relevant rights? Is the limitation fair and reasonable?
Not Applicable
(e) Conclusion
The decision is consistent with human rights.
Confidential Attachments
1.
Rates Concession Request - Multiple Properties
2.
Rates Concession Request - 55 & 59 Sarah Court Yamanto
3.
Rates Concession Request - 29 Marhaba Court Redbank Plains
4.
Rates Concession Request - Multiple Properties
Paul Mollenhauer
Treasury Accounting Manager
I concur with the recommendations contained in this report.
Christina Binoya
Chief Financial Officer
I concur with the recommendations contained in this report.
Matt Smith
Corporate Services Manager
“Together, we proudly enhance the quality of life for our community”
Mentions: Blackstone Crescent · Daisy Street · Diasy Street · Glebe Road · Goldleaf Court · Marhaba Court · Midnight Street · Moffatt Street · Pine Mountain Road · Sarah Court · Sarah Drive · Ripley · Blackstone · Yamanto · Redbank Plains · Ipswich · Newtown · Pine Mountain · Brassall
8. Report of Regulation Advisory Committee No. 2026(03) of 26 August 2026
Finance and Governance Committee
Meeting Agenda
15 September
2026
Doc ID No: A13315119
ITEM: 8
SUBJECT: Report of Regulation Advisory Committee No. 2026(03) of 26 August 2026
AUTHOR: Meeting Coordination Manager
DATE: 4 September 2026
INTRODUCTION
This is the report of the Regulation Advisory Committee No. 2026(03) of 26 August 2026.
RECOMMENDATION
That Council adopt the recommendations of the Regulation Advisory Committee No. 2026(03) of 26 August 2026 .
Attachments
1.
Minutes of Regulation Advisory Committee no. 2026(03) of 26 August 2026
26 August 2026
UNCONFIRMED REPORT OF Regulation Advisory Committee NO. 2026(03) ]
UNCONFIRMED REPORT OF Regulation Advisory Committee NO. 2026(03)
26 August 2026
Report
ATTENDANCE:
Councillor Paul Tully (Chairperson); Councillors Jim Madden (Deputy Chairperson), Andrew Antoniolli, Jacob Madsen (Observer), David Martin (Observer) and Pye Augustine (Observer)(via audio-link)
APOLOGIES:
Councillor Marnie Doyle
OFFICER’S ATTENDANCE
General Manager Corporate Services (Matt Smith), General Manager Planning and Regulatory Services (Brett Davey), Principal Officer Governance (Barb Dart), Manager, Compliance (Alisha Connaughton), Manager Strategy, Governance and Performance (Haiden Taylor), Manager, General Counsel (Allison Ferres-MacDonald), Council Liaison Officer (Kylie Curley)
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST IN MATTERS ON THE AGENDA
Nil
BUSINESS OUTSTANDING
Nil
Confirmation of Minutes
Councillor Pye Augustine attended the meeting via audio-link at 1.35 pm.
1. Confirmation of Minutes of the Regulation Advisory Committee No. 2026(02) of 28 May 2026
Recommendation
That the minutes of the Regulation Advisory Committee held on 28 May 2026 be confirmed.
Officers’ Reports
2. Local Law Review Dangerous Trees
This is a report concerning the comprehensive local law review that is underway and a variation to a recommendation that was made (and resolved) at the Council Ordinary Meeting on 25 June 2026 with regard to the management of dangerous trees and for council to continue to regulate private dangerous tree disputes.
Council should continue to protect the community from genuine public hazards and public nuisances involving trees. That is a proper local-government function.
However, where the effect of a tree is confined to neighbouring private properties, the matter is ordinarily a civil dispute between the affected neighbour and the tree-keeper. The Neighbourhood Disputes (Dividing Fences and Trees) Act 2011 establishes the rights, responsibilities and procedures applicable to that dispute and gives QCAT jurisdiction to determine it.
Council should not position itself as a parallel or alternative tribunal for such disputes. Doing so would duplicate the State statutory process, consume public resources for predominantly private benefit and expose Council to avoidable legal, operational, liability and insurance risks.
“The attachment/s to this report are confidential in accordance with section 254J(3)(e) of the Local Government Regulation 2012.”
Recommendation
A. That the new local laws continue to regulate trees and vegetation where it is necessary to address a genuine risk to public health and safety, a public nuisance, or an impact upon Council-controlled land, infrastructure or operations.
B. That the new local laws clarify that it does not establish a parallel Council process for determining private disputes about trees, including dangerous trees, and direct private landowners to the statutory processes established by the Neighbourhood Disputes (Dividing Fences and Trees) Act 2011 .
Councillor Paul Tully (Chairperson) proposed the addition of the following wording to the end of Recommendation A and the deletion of Recommendation B.
‘or where other exceptional circumstances exist.’
The members present agreed to the proposed amendment.
RECOMMENDATION
That the new local laws continue to regulate trees and vegetation where it is necessary to address a genuine risk to public health and safety, a public nuisance, or an impact upon Council-controlled land, infrastructure or operations or where other exceptional circumstances exist.
3. Local Law Review: Penalty Unit Amounts (Parking)
With council undertaking a comprehensive review of its local laws, a review into the current penalty units for parking (minor traffic offences) has been undertaken. This report presents a review of council's regulated parking infringements, including parking enforcement activity, benchmarking against comparable Southeast Queensland councils and operational costs associated with parking enforcement.
The review has identified changes to the list of minor traffic offences and penalty unit values that will be made in the drafting of the new Parking Local Laws. The draft Local Laws will be submitted to committees and council at the end of 2026 after which community consultation and State Government interest checks will be undertaken in early 2027 with the final laws commencing on 1 July 2027.
Recommendation
That the report be received and the contents noted.
4. Local Law Review Update
This is a report concerning the Local Law Review that is underway and provision of an update on its progress with drafting the laws and presentation of the draft laws at a future Regulation Advisory Committee.
Recommendation
That the report be received and the contents noted.
5. NEXT MEETING
The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, 18 November 2026.
6. GENERAL DISCUSSION (within the purpose and scope of the committee)
6. Smart Glasses and Recording Devices
Councillor Andrew Antoniolli outlined the changes that Brisbane City Council is making in relation to recording devices around pools.
ACTION
That the General Manager, Corporate Services prepare a discussion paper to be circulated to all councillors outlining what Brisbane City Council is implementing in relation to recording devices around pools.
The members of the committee raised the following matters for discussion:
· Gardens on footpaths
· Mowing of footpaths surrounding commercial properties
· Parking on footpaths
PROCEDURAL MOTIONS AND FORMAL MATTERS
The meeting commenced at 1.34 pm.
The meeting closed at 2.20 pm.
Source: Ipswich City Council meeting agenda (CC BY 4.0).