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This past year has once again demonstrated North Sydney’s resilience and strong community spirit. With the election of a new Council in September 2024, the focus remained firmly on pursuing financial strength and sustainability in order to ensure that Council can continue to deliver projects and services that directly benefit residents while navigating ongoing external pressures and community expectations.
Community engagement has been central to and driven Council’s approach to the next decade. Council finalised its largest-ever consultation to understand the challenges and opportunities facing North Sydney. The insights shared directly informed the new Community Strategic Plan 2025– 2035 adopted in April 2025 so that Council’s priorities continue to reflect the evolving needs and aspirations of North Sydney residents over the coming years.
Volunteers and public participation continue to be at the heart of what makes North Sydney unique. This year, we celebrated the achievements of Bushcare, HarbourCare and community garden volunteers, whose dedication strengthens our community and safeguards our natural environment.
Major NSW Government infrastructure projects, including the Western Harbour Tunnel and Warringah Freeway Upgrade, have continued to impact our local landscape. As will the NSW Government rezoning around the Crows Nest Metro station as part of the Transport Oriented Development (TOD) program and the impact of the low and mid-rise housing ‘reforms’. Council remains a strong advocate for North Sydney’s interests, working to address environmental and social concerns arising from these developments.
Council, of course, continues to address the ongoing challenges associated with the North Sydney Olympic Pool redevelopment. The rising costs of this project have had a substantial impact on Council’s financial position and will continue to affect Council’s financial sustainability, future plans and delivery program.
In February 2025, Council applied to the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) for a special variation to rating income to strengthen Council’s weak financial position, address infrastructure concerns, and support long-term strategic plans.
Council’s application was refused by IPART in May 2025 – even as it acknowledged Council’s poor financial position. Council has now undertaken further community consultation in relation to service levels and infrastructure renewal and maintenance. That consultation concluded that there was little appetite for reduced service levels and the majority of residents want Council to maintain or improve services and the maintenance and renewal of infrastructure.
Over the next year, Council will continue to pursue financial strength and stability as a priority.
This report details the services and projects delivered by Council in 2024–2025, including:
- expanding sustainable transport options with new cycleways and pedestrian crossings as well as road safety awareness education initiatives
- investing in renewable energy and supporting local initiatives to reduce waste and improve biodiversity
- collaborating with schools and young people to foster civic participation
- delivering the Crows Nest public domain upgrade to enhance pedestrian safety and public amenity
- partnering with government and community housing providers to deliver more affordable housing and explore future opportunities
- promoting diversity and inclusivity for everyone in North Sydney through a range of accessible arts and cultural programs
None of this would have been possible without the dedication and expertise of North Sydney Council staff. I extend my sincere thanks to the CEO, Therese Cole, the Executive Leadership Team and every staff member for their extraordinary work and commitment in very challenging times.
I also acknowledge my fellow Councillors for their tireless service to our community. Together we have made important and, at times, difficult or even unpopular decisions to safeguard North Sydney’s future.
Council remains committed to delivering sustainable solutions that honour the unique character of North Sydney. Through continued collaboration with residents and stakeholders, I am confident we can embrace the challenges and opportunities ahead.
Cr Zoë Baker, Mayor of North Sydney