The Community Facility Management Policy sets out different arrangements for community groups using council facilities, including one-off bookings, regular use, management agreements and maintenance contributions.
The policy would provide a consistent framework and ensure community groups had fair access to facilities.
Despite its passage, the policy drew opposition from several councillors who argued the framework remained too unclear for community groups to properly understand what it would mean for them in practice.
Cr Jessica Mitchell said the framework of the policy was not clear enough to be a tool for decision making.
“Ultimately, we are applying another layer to a confusing process,” she said.
Councillors also flagged concerns about inconsistencies in how fee waivers would be applied, who would be responsible for maintenance costs, and how the new policy would sit alongside existing council policies without creating confusion.
Cr Mitchell argued council needed to undertake a broader review of its policies, fees and agreements before introducing the new framework.
Cr Luke Sharrock said the policy needed further consideration, arguing that different community facilities had different circumstances and that “one size does not fit all”.
Furthermore, Cr John Zobec criticised the approach, saying: “This is a policy written by council for council, and certainly not written to assist or support our community.”
Those who backed the policy argued it would bring much-needed transparency and consistency to facility arrangements, ultimately making it easier for community groups to access and use council-owned spaces.
The policy aims to establish clearer fees, agreements and responsibilities for facility users and management groups.
The policy was ultimately passed, though not without dissent — councillors called for a formal division, meaning each member's vote was recorded, with three councillors voting against adoption.
For local community groups, the policy is likely to affect how facilities are hired, managed and maintained.
Groups are encouraged to contact council directly to understand how the new arrangements may apply to them.
