city of mitcham strategic plan of mitcham strategic plan 2 welcome to our city society is changing...

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June 2013 Document Number: 13.027729 [v4]

PLANNING FOR TOMORROW’S COMMUNITY TODAY

CITY OF MITCHAM STRATEGIC PLAN

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WELCOME TO OUR CITY

Society is changing rapidly, with the economy facing all sorts of challenges, however the future for the City of Mitcham has so many opportunities and I and my fellow Councillors want to thank you for sharing your vision for our beautiful City.

We have heard from you as to what is important so that we can continue to plan and invest for a vibrant City that offers infrastructure and services that focus on the wellbeing of everyone.

As there are many things we can work on over the next 10 years and beyond we have listened to our community and prepared this Plan which sets out the community’s collective aspirations and vision for the future. Contained within the Plan is our Vision and series of Goals and Objectives to move us all toward a better future.

The Plan is deliberately ambitious, as it should be, and demonstrates the Council’s commitment to forming strong partnerships and undertaking proactive advocacy to influence areas of importance to you, but beyond our immediate control.

The Plan is the result of consultation with you and our partners in Local and State Government, with Elected Councillor and employee input, and belongs to all of us. Let it be something we can progress together and be truly proud of both now and in Planning for Tomorrow’s Community Today.

With your input we have identified six areas to focus our attention and effort.

Accessible City

We must plan ahead for efficient traffic movement and more walking, cycling and public transport use. Like most urban areas we experience some traffic congestion along main arterial roads and

we need to carefully manage the local road network so that it continues to be a safe place for people and other road users. Our vast area and range of open space across our City is a huge attraction with many sporting clubs and local communities actively supporting programs and activities. They provide our community with the opportunity to have not only a healthy lifestyle, but the opportunity to explore our indigenous vegetation in a natural setting. Our focus is to provide good access to better community facilities in the future with more recreational options.

Liveable City

Large areas of our City are renowned for their history and heritage and we will strive to maintain this. Like our community, Council places great importance on planning for the continuing amenity of our City including our streetscapes and management of over 30,000 street trees. We will consider housing choices to support changing and affordable preferences and we will provide a healthy and safe environment so that our City continues to be known as a safe place to live, work and visit.

Inclusive and Capable Community

People living in our City report having a high quality of life. We welcome cultural diversity and have vibrant activity centres such as libraries, with Blackwood Library identified for rejuvenation. Our people are generous with their time and nearly a quarter of the population report being involved in some form of voluntary work. Council itself is fortunate to have around 300 people volunteering their time including in our libraries, providing community care, support and social programs, and protecting our bushland habitats. Our City is prone to some extreme climatic events, such as bushfire and potential flooding and can anticipate more bushfires, with a likely increase in severity and number of extreme bushfire days. We

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all need to do more to ensure we are prepared and resilient in the face of extreme weather.

Healthy Environment

We will continue to work with our community for the health of our natural environments. Our City is home to many walking and cycling trails for recreation, relaxation and biodiversity preservation and we can do more to link the hills and plains and extend into neighbouring areas. Our community is successful at diverting waste from landfill with South Australian targets being met or within reach and we are encouraged to do more recycling such as food scraps and electronic waste. We have found innovation in powering our homes and cars but we are challenged to do more to reduce our carbon footprint. Our City has a good reputation for conserving water under times of stress but we need to find ways to harvest and reuse our stormwater before it flows downstream. We are working closely with our partners towards large scale stormwater management solutions.

Enterprising City

A strong economy is fundamental in being able to achieve our other goals. We will focus on economic prosperity, so that we can invest in these areas to deliver our community Vision. Upgrading of local business and shopping centres within the region shows confidence

in our local economy. It is imperative that Council supports the continued development of dynamic District Centre Shopping Precincts and builds strong partnerships with educational institutions, private sector partners and adjoining Councils to better align our planning.

Excellence in Government

Our Plan is set on firm foundations of financial sustainability that allows for continued growth through careful planning, capitalising on the next wave of economic prosperity in the medium to longer term. While it might not sound exciting, maintaining our infrastructure is one of the most important functions of Council. Almost 60% of the community’s rates go into maintaining our roads, footpaths, buildings and stormwater infrastructure. We must focus on delivering these fundamental services efficiently and be proactive in maintenance so that unplanned costs are minimised. In a climate of increased levels of reporting, accountability, and transparency we must ensure our governance is robust, our services efficient and performance improvement ongoing.

Michael Picton, Mayor

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INTRODUCTION

About Our Plan

Planning for Tomorrow’s Community Today is a shared document between the Council and our community that reinforces the importance of taking a long-term view when planning to meet the opportunities and challenges that we currently face.

The Plan sets out six goals that reflect the type of City, community and organisation we will strive to become in serving the Plan:

• Accessible City

• Liveable City

• Inclusive and Capable Community

• Healthy Environment

• Enterprising City

• Excellence in Government

As our commitment to delivering what is most important to you, future strategies, plans and policies will be developed under the direction of the Strategic Management Plan. Together these documents will drive the performance of individual employees, teams and the organisation as a whole.

Our Planning Framework

Decisions about the services that Council will provide to bring our community’s vision closer are set out in a range of important plans that take direction from our Strategic Management Plan. These plans consider the resources, statutory requirements and financial and technical issues that Council must manage in providing services to our community.

A Business Plan will describe the actions and budget to be delivered in accord with the Strategic Management Plan and will present a detailed account of this Plan. The work of teams and individuals within the organisation is aligned through annual planning processes.

STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PLAN

Unfunded

BUSINESS PLAN

Funded

TEAM PLANS

Funded

INDIVIDUAL PLANS “My Plan”

DEVELOPMENT PLAN

SERVICE DELIVERY PLANS

ASSET MANAGEMENT

PLANS

LONG TERM FINANCIAL

PLAN

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What Our Strategic Management Plan contains:

Vision

(what we want to become by 2030)

Our Vision 2030 is created by the things you told us our community will value in the future.

Goals

(what we are aiming for)

The Vision is defined through six goals that describes what we hope to achieve in the long-term.

Objectives

(where we will focus)

Our objectives give us purpose and show us where we can focus our attention to achieve our long term goals.

Indicators of Success and Measures

(show if we are going in the right direction)

Performance can be shown by our Indicators of Success and Measures which provide a clear indication that our outputs are achieving what we set out to.

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OUR CITY

We acknowledge the Kaurna people as the traditional custodians and caretakers of the land that includes much of this City, known as Tarndanyannga country which means “The place of the Red Kangaroo Dreaming.” The Kaurna people’s rich cultural heritage and spiritual beliefs still connect their people with this land and we welcome a new relationship with the living members of their community today.

Our Past

The City of Mitcham (Mitcham) took its name from Mitcham Village which was established in 1840 on the banks of Brown Hill Creek on land owned by the South Australian Company. Mitcham Village in turn was named after Mitcham in Surrey, England - now part of the London Borough of Merton.

Proclaimed in May 1853 under the District Councils Act 1852, Mitcham is one of the oldest councils in South Australia.

Within the Council area is the ‘Garden Suburb’ of Colonel Light Gardens, now a proclaimed State Heritage Area. It became the site, in 1924, for 700 homes of the State’s Thousand Homes Scheme - a scheme which aimed to provide affordable homes to working class families.

Mitcham slowly changed from a largely rural area in the early 1900s where it was characterised by small farms, large estates and a number of stately homes. By the mid 1950s a significant industrial area was established along South Road, and development had greatly intensified in the Mitcham Hills.

By 1933 Mitcham had over 16,000 inhabitants and by 1930 our population was approaching 20,000. After the war, development

was dramatic. The population declined marginally in the 1990s but has recovered due mainly to recent growth in Craigburn Farm.

Our Present

Mitcham is now a thriving City, valued for its proximity to the City of Adelaide, the hills and the sea. Our City is known for its avenues of street trees, its large areas of open space, its stately homes, its unique historical areas and its magnificent views from the hills over the City.

The hills boast a diverse range of unique natural habitats, specimen trees and native vegetation that form part of a significant green corridor across the western slopes of the Mount Lofty Ranges. The hills contain one of the largest remnant stands of ‘endangered’ Grey Box Grassy Woodland (Eucalyptus microcarpa) in South Australia and are the home of many threatened native plants and animals. Preserving our natural landscape will be an important legacy.

Mitcham is in the catchment area for both Brown Hill Creek and the Sturt River, and collects significant volumes of stormwater from the Adelaide foothills. This creates opportunities and challenges for its management in our City and across the plains before discharging into Gulf St Vincent.

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Our City is home to over 65 high quality educational institutions including kindergartens, schools, colleges and universities, with many students living locally. This reflects a vibrant education industry that will continue to develop with more students from overseas. We have a similar proportion of pre-schoolers and younger people compared with other areas of Adelaide. Our young people are generally well educated and some may leave the State in search of employment, with fewer young people in our workforce.

Statistics indicate that Mitcham is an ageing community, with a higher proportion of people in the older age groups compared to other areas of Adelaide. Along with the Australian population as a whole, we are living longer, with life expectancy predicted to increase even further over the coming years. Our community is getting older however, less people report needing help in their day-to-day lives due to disability than for Adelaide as a whole.

Our community is prosperous with more households enjoying an above average income compared with other areas of Adelaide, and many of us choosing to work locally. Close to 40% of our employed population work in hospitals, aged care and other medical facilities, education and training, and retail trade.

Most commercial premises are located along or near Belair Road, Goodwood Road, South Road and Main Road (Blackwood and Belair). Most industrial premises are located immediately adjoining South Road and extend eastwards.

Population growth in Mitcham has been increasing by just over 200 persons per year. The number of persons per household however is falling.

Today there are over 65,000 people living and over 5,000 businesses operating in Mitcham and enjoying what our City has to offer.

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About Us

Population

Today we have approximately 63,000 people living in 26,199 homes with an average of 2.5 people per household. Over the next 10 years our population is projected to increase to just over 70,000 persons.

Area

Mitcham is a residential and semi-rural area that covers some 75 square kilometres, extending from Cross Road in the north to the Sturt River in the south, and from Mount Barker Road in the east to South Road in the west.

Diversity

71% of our population are Australian born while 12% of our population are from non English speaking backgrounds and 14% speak a language other than English at home. Most of us have ancestry from England, Australia, Scotland or Ireland.

Education and Learning

More than a quarter of our population attend an educational institution and 73% of homes have broadband internet connection.

Employment

96% of our total labour force is employed with 57% of people working more than 35 hours per week. There are over 5,391 people employed in health care and social assistance; 3953 people in education and training; and 3042 people in retail trade.

Economy

In 2011, gross regional product of the City was over $2 billion with 23,558 people employed. Regional exports totalled around $1.4 billion.

Open Space

Council currently manages approximately 600 hectares of open spaces including over 220 reserves, approximately 25 sport and recreational areas and 58 playgrounds. Our open space reserve areas vary in size from very small pocket parks of 90m2 to woodland reserves of approximately 60 hectares in size.

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2011

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Our Future

The 30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide is the South Australian Government’s long-term vision for future growth and development in the region.

The 30 Year Plan identifies that residential growth in the City of Mitcham would be better situated near transport corridors and adjacent to major shopping centres. It indicates that development will be more focussed on building houses on smaller allotments and providing some high density apartment living.

This will need to be controlled through good planning policy. Poor development outcomes could detract from the attractive neighbourhood amenity and character Mitcham residents currently enjoy. Proactive planning policies will help to build a strong vibrant community for Mitcham.

Medium density housing adjacent to shopping centres, educational institutions and major transport facilities is one way of providing future housing in Mitcham. Such developments suit a broad range of age groups and family structures, including young people, single persons and particularly our older residents and retirees who are hoping to downsize into smaller properties.

Younger families are more likely to be attracted to purchasing and renovating our older housing stock on larger allotments close to schools and facilities.

In terms of housing growth, Council’s conservative estimate is that an additional 800 houses or units may be constructed over the next 10 years. Subdivision of existing allotments could meet much of this

demand, together with some 400 housing allotments available for development at Craigburn Farm.

Areas for economic regeneration are identified around education and research institutes while areas on our boundary are identified for future industry and employment.

District level “Activity Centres” are identified at Cumberland Park, Mitcham and Blackwood. These locations within the City are already valued as having “village appeal” particularly Blackwood and Mitcham Centres, and there is commitment within the community to see these areas further prosper.

The 30 Year Plan identifies key transit and strategic roads and the State Government is planning that the South Road corridor one day provides the southern suburbs with a rapid transport link to the City of Adelaide. Our challenge is to ensure traffic is able to permeate through to our local road network, and provide for east west movement across our City.

The current economic climate dictates that Council should adopt a conservative view in estimating growth rates of businesses and new housing and therefore residents, particularly in the next few years.

While the City of Mitcham’s financial position is strong, a slowing economy would inevitably impact on the level of income growth that can be expected over the next few years.

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OUR VISION for Mitcham 2030

A healthy, inclusive and prosperous community, living and working in harmony with the environment

Our Vision is for a City where:

Accessible City

Access between the hills and plains and to the City and sea is improving and the community has better access to sustainable transport options, open spaces, parks, recreational areas and a range of well-utilised facilities and services.

Liveable City

Development that is environmentally sustainable has street appeal and respects our local history, character and heritage is common, and there is growing community support for a variety of housing types.

Inclusive and Capable Community

People feel like they belong, participate in their community and know their neighbours, creating a strong sense of community pride, spirit, cohesion and well-being.

Healthy Environment

Natural environs, bush habitat and local species are valued and iconic within the landscape as is innovation in water, energy and waste management.

Enterprising City

People are attracted from near and far to access our educational institutions and to enjoy what our local attractions and businesses have to offer.

Excellence in Government

Council is recognised for developing strong partnerships, for being progressive, forward thinking, financially sustainable, a good place to work and in touch with the needs of its community

You said: Our City “is brilliantly placed between City and hills”

You said: Our City “is a wonderful place to live”

You said: Our community “is the heart and soul of the City”

You said: Our City “has unique bushland access that sets it apart from the rest of suburbia - that's why we came”

You said: Our District Centres “provide an important heart for their respective communities”

We said: Our organisation “makes a positive difference in our community”

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ACCESSIBLE CITY GOAL: Streets, open spaces, community buildings and facilities will be accessible, connected and people friendly

Objective 1. Transport

(we can move around the City)

An integrated and efficient transport system that encourages safe travel by public transport, cycling and walking

Objective 2. Connected Community Places

(we have places to meet)

High quality, well serviced and accessible public places and community facilities where people can meet, learn and connect with one another

Objective 3. Open Space and Recreation Facilities

(we have places to relax and play)

Open space, parks and gardens and sporting and recreational facilities that provide opportunities for relaxation, leisure, physical activity and play

You said: “an accessible city is a walkable city”

You said: “communities should take some responsibilities in maintaining and cleaning the facilities they use”

You said: “transport should be so cheap and convenient that cars get left in their garages”

You said: “we must plan ahead and make purchases of land and space that will be invested into future generations”

You said: “well maintained, attractive and interesting public spaces are critical for community connection”

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Indicator of Success Measure Baseline Data State Government Targets

Transport

Increased public transport usage Percentage of travel to work on train and bus compared with the metropolitan average

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics

In 2011, 8.6% of employed persons over the age of 15 travelled to work by train and bus, compared with 8% for Greater Adelaide

Target 63: Use of public transport – Increase the use of public transport to 10% of metropolitan weekday passenger vehicle kilometres travelled by 2018 (baseline: 2002-03)

Improved connectivity of bicycle network

(within Council responsibility)

Percentage of travel to work by bicycle compared with the metropolitan average


In 2011, 1.8% of employed persons over the age of 15 travelled to work by bicycle, compared with 1.1% for Greater Adelaide

Target 2: Cycling – Double the number of people cycling in South Australia by 2020 (baseline: 2011)

Kilometres of continuous bicycle network as a percentage of total network

Source: City of Mitcham

Baseline to be developed i.e. 50% connectivity

Safety of footpaths for pedestrian movement


Asset backlog on footpath renewal works (percentage of network)


In 2012, 60% of footpaths had been renewed

Road safety improvements Road quality (asset management) rating

Source: City of Mitcham ASSETIC system

In 2009, 76% of road pavements were rated as good or very good and 64% of road seals were rated as good or very good

Target 22: Road safety – Reduce road fatalities and serious injuries by at least 30% by 2020 (baseline: 2008-10)

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Road accidents:

1. Accidents on main arterial roads (State Government roads) compared with the three year average

2. Accidents on local roads (Local Government roads) compared with the three year average

Source: State Government, Department Planning, Transport and Infrastructure

Road accidents:

1. In 2011, there were 952 total road accidents on main arterial roads compared with a three year average of 888 road accidents

2. In 2011, there were 241 total road accidents on local roads compared with a three year average of 251 accidents

Connected Community Places

A network of identified community places with access for all


Hours of use of community facilities as a percentage of available hours


Baseline to be developed e.g. asset utilisation rates

Target 1: Urban spaces – Increase the use of public spaces by the community (baseline: 2011)

Percentage of community facilities with access for disabled persons


In 2012, 31% of community facilities complied with disability access

Location and role of key community places established

Council has begun a review of community centres to identify community hubs for completion 2013

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Open Space and Recreation Facilities Improved community access to a range of multi-functional open space and recreational facilities


Hours of use of recreational facilities as a percentage of available hours


Baseline to be established e.g. asset utilisation rates

Target 83: Sport and recreation – Increase the proportion of South Australians participating in sport or physical recreation at least once per week to 50% by 2020 (baseline: 2011-12) Diversity of open space types as

a percentage of total open space


Baseline to be established

A revised open space hierarchy is in development

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LIVEABLE CITY GOAL: A well-designed and safe City responsive to lifestyle, heritage, environment and landscape Objective 4. City Character and Design

(we look and feel like Mitcham)

A strong sense of place (local identities) with vibrant village centres and development that respects local character, built form, the environment and heritage

Objective 5. Green Streetscapes

(we have street appeal)

Functional streetscapes that enhance amenity and are sensitive to the built form, landscape and local environmental conditions

Objective 6. Housing Choices

(we have good places to live)

A greater choice of housing in locations close to public transport, parks, local shops and educational institutions

Objective 7. Safe Public Realm

(we are a safe place to live and visit)

People feel safe in their homes, on local streets, in parks and when dining and travelling throughout the City

You said: “shade and edible landscapes should also be considered where appropriate”

You said: “zone for high density housing close to shops and well serviced transport”

You said: “the City of Mitcham is an area rich in amenity and natural beauty, affording its residents an attractive and comfortable place to live, work and interact”

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City Character and Design Development that complements existing built form is facilitated


Development Plan amendments authorised by Minister (date of last Plan update)


Last update of the Development Plan was consolidated 19 April 2012

Target 68: Urban development – By 2036, 70% of all new housing in metropolitan Adelaide will be being built in established areas (baseline: 2010)

Target 60: Energy efficiency, dwellings – Improve the energy efficiency of dwellings by 15% by 2020 (baseline: 2003-04). Milestone of 10% by 2014

Development applications completed within statutory timeframes


As of December 2012, 67% of Planning and Building decisions made within statutory timeframes

Target 33: Government Planning Decisions – South Australia leads the nation in timely decisions of development applications through to 2020 (baseline: 2009-10)

Built heritage protected Number of items included in the Development Plan

Source: City of Mitcham Development Plan

In 2012, we have 36 State Heritage Places and 207 Local Heritage Places listed in the Development Plan

Two Historic (Conservation) Zones; 1. Mitcham Village; and 2. Belair Village; and one Historic (Conservation) Policy Area - Central Plains Policy Area 15, these areas contain a total of 137 Contributory Items

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Our State Heritage Area (Colonel Light Gardens) comprises some 1200 properties

Green Streetscapes Well-serviced streetscapes


Streetscape service standards (e.g. infrastructure type, street-lighting, verge maintenance and tree replacement, etc) agreed with community


Baseline to be developed

Housing Choices Population growth Total number of persons residing

in City of Mitcham


The population increased by 1,052 persons between 2006 and 2011

Target 45: Total population – Increase South Australia’s population to 2 million by 2027 (baseline: 2003)

Increased diversity of dwelling structure

Percentage of medium and high density dwellings as a proportion of total private dwellings


In 2006, 17.6% of dwellings were medium and high density which increased slightly so that in 2011, 18% of dwellings were medium and high density

Target 7: Affordable housing – South Australia leads the nation over the period to 2020 in the proportion of homes sole or built that are affordable by low and moderate income households (baseline: 2010)

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Safe Public Realm Community perception of safety Community perception of public

safety as good or excellent

Source: City of Mitcham Annual Residents Survey

In 2012, 80% of respondents were satisfied with public safety (i.e. good or excellent), compared with 75% in 2011 and 69% in 2010

Target 17: State-wide crime rates – Reduce victim reported crime by 38% by 2014 maintaining or improving thereafter (baseline: 2002-03)

Crime rates per head of population compared with the metropolitan average

Source: Office of Crime Statistics and Research

In 2010, reported crime rates were equal to 66 per 1,000 head of population compared with 126 per 1,000 head of population for metropolitan Adelaide

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INCLUSIVE AND CAPABLE COMMUNITY GOAL: A community that welcomes and respects all people and brings them together in friendship and community lead action Objective 8. Creative and Learning Community

(we value our local talent)

People expressing who they are and pursuing the many pathways to learning and personal growth

Objective 9. Engaged Community

(we are active citizens)

People exchanging information, knowledge, ideas and experiences, and participating in their communities and public decision making

Objective 10. Vibrant and Diverse Community

(we value and respect diversity)

People helping each other and celebrating history, culture, people and place

Objective 11. Emergency Preparedness and Resilience

(we are ready for extremes)

People are informed and prepared for climatic variation and natural disasters (such as heatwave, bushfire and flood)

You said: “libraries are vital community hubs for all ages”

You said: “Mitcham is a great community - where connections between people go back many years - this needs to be celebrated”

You said: “temporary road closures to enable children to play, street markets, street parties and other community activities”

You said: “continue the multi mix of activities to enhance interest of all ages & cultures”

You said: “cultural abilities should be asked for openly otherwise those abilities will stay within the families and get lost”

You said: “there needs to be community arts projects that involve all levels of the community”

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Creative and Learning Community Community programs and services are vibrant and well-utilised


Participation in Council programs as a proportion of program capacity and actual participation


Baseline to be established Target 3: Cultural vibrancy – arts activities – Increase the vibrancy of the South Australian arts industry by increasing attendance at selected arts activities by 150% by 2020 (baseline: 2002-03)

Target 99: Cultural engagement, institutions – Increase the number of attendances at South Australia’s cultural institutions by 20% by 2014 and maintain or improve thereafter (baseline: 2003-04)

Participation in library services and programs:

1. Loans through Council’s libraries compared with the five year average

2. Participation in library programs compared with the five year average


Participation in library services and programs:

1. In 2012, there were 874,339 loans compared with a five year average of 923,444 loans 2. In 2012, 23,305 people participated in library programs compared with a five year average of 21,850 participants

Engaged Community Council volunteering opportunities are responsive to community need


Number of Council volunteers as a percentage of available places


In 2012, Council had 323 volunteers and 94% of available volunteer places were filled

Target 24: Volunteering: Maintain a high level of formal and informal volunteering in South Australia at 70% participation rate or higher (baseline 2006)

Target 72: Nature conservation – Increase participation in nature conservation activities by 25% by 2015 (baseline: 2010)

Volunteers as a percentage of the population compared to the Greater Adelaide average


In 2011, 24% of the population reported doing some form of voluntary work compared with 17.7% for the metropolitan Adelaide

Participation in Council elections Proportion of eligible voters that In 2010, voter participation was Target 29: Elections – Increase

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vote in Council elections

Source: City of Mitcham and State Electoral Commission

28.1%

A supplementary election in Park Ward in 2013 achieved 24.6% voter participation

the percentage of women nominating to stand in local, state and federal government elections in South Australia to 50% by 2014 (baseline: 2010) Percentage of women nominating

for Council elections

Source: City of Mitcham and State Electoral Commission

In 2010, 13 of 35 nominations (37%) the Council election were women

Community perception of Council communication and consultation

Community perception of how Council communicates and consults with its residents and ratepayers (rated as good or excellent)

Source: City of Mitcham Annual Community Survey

In 2012, 44% of respondents believed the Council was above average (rated as good or excellent) in how it communicates and consults with residents and ratepayers

Vibrant and Diverse Community Well attended community events


Participation in community events as a proportion of planned attendance and actual attendance at events


In 2012, a total of three community events run were at 79% of planned capacity

Target 23: Social Participation: Increase the proportion of South Australians participating in social, community and economic activities by 2020 (baseline: 2011)

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People supported to participate in community programs and services


Percentage of planned and contracted positive ageing and community care service outputs achieved


In 2012, all planned and contracted outputs for the positive ageing and community care service (including home assist and community transport) were achieved (100%)

Emergency Preparedness and Resilience Emergency and risk management plans in place and regularly reviewed


Up-to-date plans in place


In 2012, a Regional Strategy and Interim Plan in accord with the Fire and Emergency Services Act 2005 provisions is in place

Target 20: Bushfire preparedness – Increase the number of households in high bushfire prone areas that are prepared for a bushfire by 30% by 2020 (baseline: 2010-11)

Climate change impacts on community, environment and infrastructure identified


Climate change impacts addressed through Council risk management framework



Council is participating in the Resilient South Project with the State Government, and the Cities of Onkaparinga, Marion and Holdfast Bay to identify climate change impacts

Target 62: Climate change adaptation – Develop regional climate change adaptation plans in all State Government regions by 2016 (baseline: 2011)

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HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT GOAL: A green and biodiverse City characterised by clean air, land, water and responsible consumption Objective 12. Biodiversity

(we have unique areas of bush habitat)

Natural habitat protected and expanded by reconnecting vegetation corridors along waterways, linear reserves, open space and the streetscape

Objective 13. Clean Energy

(we look for better energy solutions)

Changes in urban form, travel habits and conservation efforts are designed to reduce our reliance on traditional coal powered energy, and priority is for alternate fit-for purpose energy sources such as solar

Objective 14. Water Smart

(we save water)

Healthy catchments and waterways that protect the environment, people and property

Objective 15. Responsible Consumption and Waste Minimisation

(we make the most of what we have)

Natural resources are conserved and waste is minimised either through avoidance, reuse, recycling or recovery

You said: “natural bushland can't be made so we'd be foolish to neglect what we already have”

You said: “we are a 'Green City' and the future will appreciate this”

You said: “much greater emphasis needed in collection of storm water”

You said: “if you haven't got a sustainable environment, you've got nothing!! If it’s not sustainable, it’s not sustainable”

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Biodiversity Improved quality and connectivity of natural habitat


Hectares of woodland reserve under active management each year


In 2012, 1.5 hectares of woodland reserve was under active management

Target 69: Lose no species – Lose no native species as a result of human impacts (baseline: 2004)

Clean Energy Council’s greenhouse gas emissions are stable or decreasing


Council’s energy consumption expressed as carbon dioxide equivalent

Source: City of Mitcham, Property, Fleet, Waste, Public Lighting data

Council’s greenhouse gas emissions were equal to 4831 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent at last measure

Target 59: Greenhouse gas emissions reduction – Achieve the Kyoto target by limiting the state’s greenhouse gas emissions to 108% of 1990 levels during 2008-2012, as a first step towards reducing emissions by 60% (to 40% of 1990 levels) by 2050 (baseline: 1990)

Target 61: Energy efficiency, government buildings – Improve the energy efficiency of government buildings by 30% by 2020 (baseline: 2000-01). Milestone of 25% by 2014

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Increased renewable energy usage


Council energy spend on greenpower as a percentage of total energy spend

Source: City of Mitcham Electricity Contract

In 2012, 20% of Council energy spend is greenpower

Target 65: Purchase renewable energy for 50% of the government’s own electricity needs by 2014 (baseline: 2010)

Target 64: Renewable energy – Support the development of renewable energy so that it comprises 33% of the state’s electricity production by 2020 (baseline: 2004-05). Milestone of 20% by 2014

Water Smart Council’s potable water use


Potable water use by Council is within the approved water budget

Source: City of Mitcham & SA Water

In 2012, Council and SA Water agreed to a new water budget of 112,000 kilolitres to become the baseline

Target 75: Sustainable water use – South Australia’s water resources are managed within sustainable limits by 2018 (baseline: 2003)

Volume of recycled water utilised Volume of alternative water supplies as a percentage of total Council water use


In 2012, there was capacity for 10 kilolitres of water from rainwater tanks and bore water was 41% of total water use

Target 73: Recycled stormwater – South Australia has the system capacity to harvest up to 35 GL of stormwater per annum by 2025 (baseline: 2009)

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Responsible Consumption and Waste Minimisation

Waste diverted from landfill Green organics and mixed recycling diverted from landfill as a percentage of total volume of waste presented at the kerbside

Source: Eastern Waste Management Authority

As of December 2012, the waste diversion rate for the City was 56.4%

Target 67: Zero waste – Reduce waste to landfill by 35% by 2020 (baseline: 2002-03). Milestone of 25% by 2014

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ENTERPRISING CITY GOAL: A strong and resilient local economy that supports business and attracts investment Objective 16. Vibrant District Centres

(we have village places)

Attractive, vibrant and revitalised Blackwood, Cumberland Park and Mitcham Centres, supported by a variety of quality community facilities and retail, commercial and residential development

Objective 17. Pathways to Employment

(we work where we live)

Education and training pathways link people to local jobs and attract employment opportunities that match the skill base of our community

Objective 18. Strategic Projects and Infrastructure

(we make good partners)

Strategic land use and infrastructure projects are planned collaboratively with neighbouring Councils, State Government and through private sector partnerships

You said: “I like the return of the local deli and café”

You said: “balanced economic and work choice opportunities for all especially the young”

You said: “Mitcham and Blackwood should maintain their village character”

You said: “our District Centres are a point of difference with our neighbouring councils”

You said: “more support for local business - business breakfasts - networking opportunities”

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Vibrant District Centres Well-designed and vibrant District Centres

1. Broad concept plans to guide development within District Centres prepared

2. Partnerships formed with the community and land-owners


To be established

Pathways to Employment Level of employment equal to or above the State average

Percentage of total labour force employed compared with the State average

Source: Australian Bureau Statistics

In 2011, 95.6% of the total labour force were employed, compared with 94.3% for South Australia

Target 47: Jobs – Increase employment by 2% each year from 2010 to 2016 (baseline: 2010)

More residents have jobs in the region

Percentage of employed residents working within the area compared with the metropolitan average


In 2011, 17.1% of Mitcham residents worked within the area compared with 24% of people working locally for metropolitan Adelaide

Growth of participation in Tertiary Education

Percentage of the population with a completed Bachelor or higher degree compared with the metropolitan average


In 2011, 31.3% of the population completed a Bachelor or higher degree compared with 18.2% for metropolitan Adelaide

Target 93: Tertiary education and training – Increase the proportion of South Australians aged 15-64 participating in tertiary education and training to 17% by 2016 (baseline: 2009)

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Completion of secondary studies School retention to years 11 and 12 compared with the metropolitan average


As of 2011, 74.6% of people aged over 15 years completed Year 12 schooling or equivalent compared with 67.6% for metropolitan Adelaide

Target 89: SACE or equivalent – Increase yearly the proportion of 15-19 year olds who achieve the SACE or comparable senior secondary qualification (baseline: 2003)

Strategic Projects and Infrastructure Community perception of quality of life

Community perception of their quality of life


In both 2011 and 2012, 93% of community survey respondents rated their quality of life within the City of Mitcham as ‘good’ or ‘excellent’

Target 56: Strategic Infrastructure – Ensure the provision of key economic and social infrastructure accommodates population growth (baseline: 2010-11)

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EXCELLENCE IN GOVERNMENT GOAL: A Council with strong leadership that values its people, customers and partners Objective 19. Financial Sustainability

(we are good with money)

Responsible management of Council’s financial resources and community assets, and the equitable distribution of costs now and into the future

Objective 20. Service Efficiency & Effectiveness

(we provide value for money)

Services, facilities and infrastructure assessed for community need and provided where Council is in the best position to do so efficiently and cost effectively or through partnerships

Objective 21. Good Governance

(we do things right)

Accountable governance and robust corporate systems for decision making and risk management

Objective 22. People and Workplace Culture

(we do things well)

A culture of leadership and a good place to work and develop a career

Objective 23. Customer Focus

(we focus on you)

An organisation focused on its internal and external customers

Objective 24. Council Reputation

(we do what we say)

An organisation recognised as a leader in government

You said: “only spend what we can afford”

You said: “I feel the City of Mitcham needs to be a little more radical”

You said: “maintain and upgrade before creating more infrastructure which will also need maintaining”

You said: “work collaboratively with community groups to consider ways of making desired facilities achievable”

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Financial Sustainability Management in accord with Council’s Long Term Financial Plan and Asset Management Plans


Annual financial sustainability and asset management indicators (refer to the Long Term Financial Plan for detailed explanation of ratios)

Source: City of Mitcham, Long Term Financial Plan

Budget estimates for 2012-2013:

Operating Result Ratio = 4.5% Financial Liabilities Ratio = 14.5% Interest Cover Ratio = 0.2% Asset Sustainability Ratio = 104.1% Asset Consumption Ratio = 42.5%

Service Efficiency & Effectiveness High levels of community satisfaction with Council services

Community perception of Council’s overall performance


As of 2012, 59% of respondents rated the overall performance of Council as good or excellent, compared with 68% in 2011

Target 32: Customer and client satisfaction with government services – Increase the satisfaction of South Australians with government services by 10% by 2014, maintaining or exceeding that level of satisfaction thereafter (baseline: 2008)

Good Governance Quality of Council decisions


Formal complaints to the Ombudsman:

1. Number of requests for internal or external reviews of Freedom of Information requests

2. Number of applications for review of a Council decision

Formal complaints to the Ombudsman:

In 2012, there were no requests for internal or external reviews of Freedom of Information requests

In 2012, Council completed two applications for review of a

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(section 270 of the Local Government Act)


Council decision

Council policies and strategic plans support community aspirations and achievement of the Strategic Management Plan


Percentage of Council policy and strategic plans reviewed according to review schedule


Baseline to be established.

Implementation of policy framework and schedule by 2014.

Council’s risk management performance at or above the Local Government metropolitan average


Percentage achieved through the Local Government risk management review compared with the Local Government metropolitan average

Source: Local Government Association Mutual Liability Scheme

Council scored 91% in the latest Local Government risk management review compared with a Local Government metropolitan average of 93%

Knowledge and information are used effectively to optimise service delivery to the community


Employee satisfaction with information and knowledge management

Source: City of Mitcham, Organisational Climate Survey


A Knowledge Management Strategy is being planned for development by June 2015

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People and Workplace Culture

Employee satisfaction Employee satisfaction measured through regular climate survey

Source: City of Mitcham, Independent consultancy to be appointed

In 2012, 65% of employees indicated satisfaction with Mitcham as an employer

Goal: All South Australians have job opportunities

Target 13: Work-life balance – Improve the quality of life of all South Australians through maintenance of a healthy work-life balance (baseline: 2007)

Workers Health and Safety requirements achieved


Number of working days lost (lost time injury) through workers compensation claims compared to the Local Government (Group A) average

Source: Local Government Association Workers Compensation Scheme

In 2012, Council had 8 lost time injuries compared with the Local Government average of 11 lost time injuries

Target 21: Greater safety at work – Achieve a 40% reduction in injury by 2012 and a further 50% reduction by 2022 (baseline: 2001-02)

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Customer Focus

Customer satisfaction with Council customer service

Proportion of enquiries resolved at first point of contact or according to agreed service standards


In 2012, 37% of calls were resolved by the customer service team

Community perception of Council’s customer service (as a proportion of respondents that had contact in the last 12 months)

Source: City of Mitcham, Annual Community Survey

In 2012, of 400 people contacted, 231 people (58%) had contact with Council staff in the past year; 67% of these respondents were satisfied or very satisfied with Council’s customer service

Council Reputation

Council recognised as a leader in government

Community perception of Council’s overall performance (rated as good or excellent)


In 2012, 59% of community respondents were very satisfied (rated as good or excellent) Council’s overall performance

Goal: Governments demonstrate strong leadership working with and for the community

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Tracking Our Progress

A range of important reports are prepared to track our progress in bringing our community Vision closer.

Plan Report

Strategic Management Plan (unfunded)

Progress Report (4 year review)

from out-going Council

Business Plan (funded) Annual Report (every year)

July-June (financial year)

Report to Council (6 months)

July-December

January-June

The City of Mitcham Annual Report is the main document that outlines Council activities and achievements for the year. The Annual Report contains information required by the Local Government Act and other legislation, full financial statements and a comprehensive look at Council’s operations.

Copies of the Annual Report are available for viewing on the website, at the Mitcham Civic Centre and the Mitcham and Blackwood Libraries or for purchase at the Mitcham Civic Centre.

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