Operational plan 2024–25
Council's plan for July 2024 to June 2025: 107 initiatives Each square shows how one initiative was left at year end.
Finished by year end
33 of 107
Ended the year disrupted
31
Environment21 initiatives
1.1 Water qualityMaintain and improve water quality and the health of waterways, wetlands and catchments · 2 initiatives
1.1.1 Modern Water Quality Monitoring ProgramQ4 · On Track · This programme is ongoing. Monitoring was completed as planned for all sites in Q4. A six-month trial of Mary River sub-catchment monitoring has commenced with Sunshine Coast Council. Water quality dashboard has been trialled with the Noosa Waters Residents Association. Council to be briefed on the annual programme in August.
1.1.2 Management of bio basinsQ4 · Minor Disruption · Delivery of the maintenance schedule was delayed in Q3 due to adverse weather, and the programme was unable to recover these delays in Q4.
1.2 Land partnershipsPartner with landowners and community groups to manage, protect and regenerate natural environment assets, improve resilience, and incorporate Indigenous knowledge. · 3 initiatives
1.2.1 Bushfire Management PlanQ4 · On Track · Program planning completed for 2025 burns. Planned burns being undertaken as weather and conditions allow throughout Q4. As we are at the mid-point of the programme, we will not have a clear picture of completion until Q1 reporting of FY25/26.
1.2.2 Community BushcareQ4 · On Track · Annual programme for all Volunteer Bushcare groups successfully delivered.
1.2.3 BiosecurityQ4 · Minor Disruption · A draft is currently being reviewed; however, staff resources have been limited due to balancing competing operational demands. Completion anticipated in Q1/2 FY25/26.
1.3 Coastal foreshoresFund and implement Coastal Foreshores and Coastal Hazard Management Plans to protect and enhance coastal and foreshore areas. · 5 initiatives
1.3.1 Noosaville Foreshore ManagementQ4 · Completed
1.3.2 Eastern Beaches ForeshoreQ4 · On Track · Education material is complete, and the public awareness campaign has started. A restoration program is underway within available budget and resourcing, and the beach infrastructure access manual is nearing completion (80%).
1.3.3 High-risk erosion areasQ4 · Minor Disruption · Progress through the High-Risk Erosion Prone Area Working Group has stalled due to staff vacancy and changes. A Noosa Eastern Beaches Creek Erosion Risk study has been delivered by consultants, covering geotechnical, hydrological & vegetation assessments at the nine creeks along the Eastern Beaches. Assessments were used to identify slope stability risks as well as urgent, short, medium and long term actions to reduce these risks. Actions vary from urgent remediation works through to longer term revegetation and weed control.
1.3.4 Encroachments PolicyQ4 · On Track · Ongoing implementation program underway. Recovery plans have been developed for the esplanade south of the ferry – associated works to be undertaken in FY25/26. Works at Lorikeet Dr, Peregian Beach, have been completed.
1.3.5 Noosa Spit Erosion ManagementQ4 · Completed
1.4 Noosa's HeritageDiscover, respect, conserve and celebrate Noosa’s unique heritage values in all forms, for current and future generations · 2 initiatives
1.4.1 Heritage Conservation Management PlansQ4 · Completed
1.4.2 Heritage of surfing in NoosaQ4 · Completed
1.5 Vegetation networksDeliver expanded vegetation networks, rehabilitation and habitat across the Shire and advocate to the state and federal governments to assist funding environmental action. · 2 initiatives
1.5.1 Yurol Ringtail State ForestQ4 · Completed
1.5.2 Conservation Land PlanQ4 · Minor Disruption · To be reported to Council in September 2025. Some delays in delivery due to further review requirements following a Councillor workshop.
1.6 Community and RiversPartner with community to improve the health and water quality management of Noosa and Mary Rivers and coastal areas through whole of catchment management to protect environmental values while enabling sustainable public access, recreation, and commercial use. · 1 initiative
1.6.1 Noosa River Catchment Action PlanQ4 · Major Disruption · Delayed to FY2025/26. This initiative will now be advanced as part of the SEQ Resilient Rivers Program for preparing a Catchment Action Plan. Council is being supported with funding via Resilient Rivers and resourcing to assist in preparing the Noosa River Catchment Management Plan. Community engagement on a Draft plan will occur in 2026.
1.7 Species protectionDeliver and partner with State and Federal Governments to protect threatened and vulnerable species identified in the Environment Strategy. · 3 initiatives
1.7.1 Threatened Fauna RoadmapQ4 · Minor Disruption · Action Plans for Koala Conservation and Sea Turtle are nearing completion (95%).
1.7.2 Koala Conservation PlanQ4 · Minor Disruption · The final draft has been completed and is undergoing internal review in Q1 FY25/26.
1.7.3 Flying foxesQ4 · On Track · SoMI implemented for the Kin Kin roost following community concern due to seasonal increase in flying fox population. Additional resources being applied to monitoring and impact assessment in Q1 of FY25/26.
1.8 Noosa Design PrinciplesReinforce Noosa Design Principles to shape the look and feel of our distinctive built environment to ensure it responds to our climate, environment and unique character. · 3 initiatives
1.8.1 Noosa Design PrinciplesQ4 · On Track · Draft Design Principles document prepared and presented at Councillor workshop in April 2025. Kabi Kabi engagement completed in July 2025. The draft document is now finalised for external key stakeholder engagement (designers and industry organisations).
1.8.2 Development AssessmentQ4 · On Track · Implementation continuing.
1.8.3 Council works follow Noosa Design PrinciplesQ4 · Completed
Liveability27 initiatives
2.1 Housing choiceFacilitate greater housing choice which meets the changing needs of the community, improves liveability and affordability and includes partnering to increase provision of social and affordable housing. · 2 initiatives
2.1.1 Noosa Housing StrategyQ4 · On Track · The Housing Strategy update and proposed Housing Monitoring program were reported to Council in March 2025. Housing Monitoring report is being prepared and external service provider engaged for data analysis. Engagement with the State government for State-driven development continues. The State government confirmed a social housing development of 32 dwellings in Tewantin and purchase of an additional site. Site investigations completed at 62 Lake Macdonald Drive, community engagement undertaken and report submitted to Council presenting revised site option. Tender process has been completed, and the report will be presented to Council in July 2025; Tenders under review for master planning of Council sites for affordable housing using grant funding; proposed planning scheme amendments on housing affordability awaiting Minister's sign-off submitted February 2025.
2.1.2 Short Stay LettingQ4 · On Track · Short Stay Local Operational Review has significantly progressed. The stakeholder survey has been completed and the feedback reviewed. Stakeholder roundtable session completed, feedback from roundtable included completed briefing to Council. Report with recommendations to be presented at August round of Council meetings.
2.2 Parks and pathsFund and deliver accessible and improved, parks, open spaces, walking and cycle paths and trails, including greening our paths and cycleways to meet contemporary needs. · 3 initiatives
2.2.1 Noosa Biosphere TrailsQ4 · On Track · Project Reference Group has been re-established to guide scope of works. On the ground works has commenced, with ongoing procurement and scope refinement underway for remaining works to meet grant obligations. QPWS permit Section 34 application for all trails progressing well. This project is funded until November 2026.
2.2.2 Noosa Botanic Gardens Master PlanQ4 · Minor Disruption · Stakeholder Reference Group, meetings & initial public consultation complete. Draft to be submitted to Council in September 2025 for endorsement and final public consultation.
2.2.3 Pathway renewalQ4 · Completed
2.3 Arts and cultureNurture arts and culture to enrich the identity and vibrancy of communities, highlight local talent, celebrate First Nations culture and encourage creative participation and expression. · 2 initiatives
2.3.1 Public Art PolicyQ4 · Completed
2.3.2 Floating LandQ4 · Completed
2.4 Transport improvementAdvocate and partner with all levels of government for increased funding for connected transport nodes, transit hubs, including walking, cycling and public transport and explore opportunities through smart city, smart biosphere and innovation to transform the way we move around and engage in our community. · 6 initiatives
2.4.1 Movement and Connection Delivery PlanQ4 · On Track · Review of actions included in the Transport Plan and Cycling and Walking Strategy has been undertaken. A draft Delivery Plan has been prepared for internal review. The draft was discussed at Councillor workshop in April 2025.
2.4.2 Northern Sunshine Coast Public Transport StrategyQ4 · On Track · The Noosa Shire Council Parking and Transport Strategy (NSCPTS) is progressing as scheduled. Team members have actively participated in a recent workshop, contributing to the development of key priorities. Community consultation is anticipated to take place in September 2025, ensuring public views are integrated into the next phase of strategy development.
2.4.3 Walking and cyclingQ4 · Completed
2.4.4 Parking Management PlanQ4 · Minor Disruption · The Parking Management Plan is currently on hold, pending the outcomes of the community consultation for the Destination Management Plan. The findings from that process will help inform the direction and priorities of the Parking Management Plan moving forward.
2.4.5 Transport StrategyQ4 · On Track · The Go Noosa program was delivered for the 2024/25 FY. An evaluation report is presented to Council in August 2025.
2.4.6 Noosa Woods JettyQ4 · On Track · Consultant has been appointed to lead the investigation and targeted stakeholder engagement has occurred to inform consultants initial findings. Councillor workshop was undertaken in July 2025 to present the Phase 1 findings. This will lead into Phase 2 Concept Design development and subsequent broader community engagement.
2.5 Inclusive facilities and servicesEnsure community facilities and services are inclusive, accessible and meet the evolving needs and interests of residents across the shire. · 6 initiatives
2.5.1 Noosa Libraries Business PlanQ4 · On Track · As of Q4, the Libraries Plan has been graphically designed and is undergoing final edits before it is implemented in early FY25/26.
2.5.2 Sports complex master plansQ4 · Minor Disruption · Noosa District Netball Clubhouse rebuild underway with an anticipated completion in August 2025. Internal road upgrade at NDSC subject to design and external funding opportunities. Cooroy Sports Complex: • Field lighting upgrades to be completed and handed over by August 2025. • Gymnastics and multi-use area upgrades detailed design has been completed, now awaiting final costings and approval to go to tender for construction. • Internal road and car park upgrades on hold until capital works allocation allocated.
2.5.3 Community hall assessmentQ4 · Completed
2.5.4 Accessible Changing PlacesQ4 · On Track · Design Brief and amenities siting completed. Consultant has completed a Concept Design. A Councillor briefing on the concept scheduled for July 2025 with targeted stakeholder engagement to follow.
2.5.5 Community purpose landQ4 · Minor Disruption · A second Councillor workshop has been held, during which the need for further external stakeholder consultation was identified. The additional consultation extends the timeframe, with completion of the review and adoption of the updated policy expected to occur in FY 25/26.
2.5.6 Inclusiveness coachingQ4 · On Track · Council's Inclusion Coach continues to implement and deliver the Sport4All program across the shire working with schools and clubs. To date, 21 sports clubs and four schools have engaged with the program. Assisted skateboarding was included in the recent Noosa Skate 2025 Peregian Day in the Park with a specialised frame enabling wheelchair-bound participants the opportunity to experience skateboarding.
2.6 Strong communitiesFacilitate strong, vibrant, inclusive communities where people have a sense of belonging and are active participants in a rich community life. · 2 initiatives
2.6.1 Community StrategyQ4 · Major Disruption · No internal staffing or funding for external resourcing is available to begin this piece of work this quarter and this is unlikely to change for the remainder of the financial year.
2.6.2 Community GrantsQ4 · Completed
2.7 Sustainable facilitiesFund and deliver sustainable assets and facilities and associated services responding to the changing needs of the community and the challenges and opportunities of the future. · 4 initiatives
2.7.1 Noosa Cemeteries PlanQ4 · Minor Disruption · Consultation has been undertaken with key stakeholders. Draft has been completed and is currently under internal review. Progress constrained by available resourcing.
2.7.2 Noosa Leisure and Aquatic CentresQ4 · On Track · NLC Needs Assessment completed with further work required to progress project into next stages and NAC project at latter stages of delivery.
2.7.3 Visitor contribution for transportQ4 · Minor Disruption · Paid parking and congestion charging were investigated as part of the Parking Management Plan and in line with the project scope and findings presented to Councillors in a series of workshops. Further refinement will await findings from the community consultation process from the Destination Management Plan.
2.7.4 Community buildings and infrastructureQ4 · Minor Disruption · Building condition assessment reports (BCARs) 40% completed with further BCARs delayed due to limited resourcing. Additional BCARs expected to recommence by the end of August 2025 with one due for completion by December 2025. 28% of comprehensive Asset Management Plans (AMPs) near completion. Progress constrained by available resourcing.
2.8 Community wellbeingProvide opportunities to enhance the health, wellbeing and safety of our communities. · 2 initiatives
2.8.1 Living Well NoosaQ4 · Completed
2.8.2 Wastewater treatment systemsQ4 · Completed
Prosperity12 initiatives
3.1 Smart BiosphereDeliver and fund the Smart Biosphere - Economic Strategy, partnering with and supporting Noosa Shire’s business community and industry sectors to deliver key outcomes. · 3 initiatives
3.1.1 Sustainable procurementQ4 · Minor Disruption · Sustainable Procurement (SP) Matrix review underway and SP 'Pillars' have been included on Contract Number Request Forms to commence capturing some data/information.
3.1.2 Smart BiosphereQ4 · On Track · Ongoing delivery of Noosa Smart Biosphere Economic Development (Action) Plan and priorities including: • Development of Destination Management Plan (November 2025 adoption anticipated) • Gold Eco-Destination Accreditation (Ongoing) • Development of Noosa Council Events Strategy (First draft moved to Q2 FY25/26) • Implementation of Green Economy Plan, including activation of Circularity Precinct in collaboration with Waste Management, building capacity in green businesses and auditing Noosa's Electric Vehicle capacity and enabling infrastructure needs in collaboration with Waste Management Branch (Circularity Precinct Ongoing/EV Infrastructure Audit Q1 FY25/26) • Industry Development Plans - including Food & Beverage and Education (Ongoing) • Food and Agribusiness Hub Proof of Concept scheduled for Q1 FY25/26 • Business Support Programs (Business Boost/ECDEV Grant/Capability Workshops and Industry Communications completed for FY24/25
3.1.3 Sustainable procurementQ4 · Completed
3.2 Workforce and skillsPartner with industry and education stakeholders in programs to address workforce and skill shortages and to develop a suite of initiatives that meet the future workforce skills of Noosa including pathways to employment. · 1 initiative
3.2.1 Future skillsQ4 · Completed
3.3 Regenerative agricultureWork with agricultural organisations and agencies to support and educate landholders on regenerative agriculture methods and promote local and sustainable food production. · 1 initiative
3.3.1 Food and Agribusiness industry developmentQ4 · On Track · Industry Development Plan (Scheduled for completion in Q1 FY25/26). Food and Agribusiness Network (FAN) Partnership Agreement completed and signed.
3.4 Hinterland Innovation HubInvestigate a rural/hinterland innovation hub to support our hinterland communities and grow our rural, artisan and creative industries. · 1 initiative
3.4.1 Food and Agribusiness HubQ4 · Minor Disruption · Minor delay due to competing priorities - Initial scoping and project plan scheduled for completion Q1 FY25/26.
3.5 Innovation PrecinctPartner with government agencies and industry to deliver a Business and Innovation Precinct at the Shire Business Centre supported by the Peregian Digital Hub. · 1 initiative
3.5.1 Innovation PrecinctQ4 · Minor Disruption · Final amendments submitted to State February 2025, now awaiting Ministerial approval for adoption and commencement. Activation discussions continue with Stockwell Group.
3.6 Cultural and creative economyGrow and enhance the cultural and creative economy through partnerships and delivery of programs, events and the development of a signature regional art gallery. · 1 initiative
3.6.1 Regional Art GalleryQ4 · Completed
3.7 Waste programDeliver the waste program focused on accelerating actions and solutions including circular economy opportunities to cut waste and pollution, keep products and materials in use and regenerate natural systems. · 3 initiatives
3.7.1 Resource Recovery FacilityQ4 · On Track · Key projects within stage 1 of the Masterplan have advanced with a Development Application lodged in February 2025 for Council consideration to provide for a shovel ready project. Grant funding application has been submitted with the Federal Government. High level concept designs completed. Waiting on funding update.
3.7.2 Waste managementQ4 · On Track · Waste Plan 2023-2027 action tracker has been developed with a project plan to support delivery of key milestones. This is monitored monthly by the team. Recent environmental performance reporting has shown ongoing reduction in carbon emissions and waste diversion consistent with Waste Plan targets. A project plan for FY25/26 key waste plan actions is being developed and will guide the monthly action plan reporting.
3.7.3 Waste infrastructureQ4 · On Track · Procurement process underway specific to compost facility, with invitation to the open market to design, construct, commission and handover of a green waste composting processing plant. Feasibility study and preliminary technical enquiry for a solar farm have been completed. Development Plans and Application for the Transfer Station Redesign have been submitted to DA. Feasibility study for anerobic digestion, biochar and utilisation of landfill gas will be undertaken as part of Stage 2 Master Planning Activities.
3.8 Economic developmentPartner with industry, innovative and research organisations to bring awareness, investment, and develop innovative outcomes for the Shire. · 1 initiative
3.8.1 Living LabQ4 · On Track · The grant application for Cities Deal funding to create a smart mobility lab in the Peregian Digital Hub precinct was unsuccessful. Council continues to work with the adjacent landowner within the innovation precinct about synergies with the proposed development of that site. The scope and opportunity for advancing Living Lab is progressing through the development of the investment Road Map to Net Zero Emissions and implementation of Smart Biosphere Strategy priorities. Formalising this program will require further consideration.
Future16 initiatives
4.1 ReconciliationDeliver the Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) to build trust and respect with First Nations peoples including our Traditional Owners, the Kabi Kabi people and our community. · 1 initiative
4.1.1 Traditional OwnersQ4 · On Track · 41 formal engagements held over FY24-25 with KKPAC and the Kabi Kabi Land & Sea Rangers. The Relationship Agreement and Kabi Kabi Commitment Implementation Plan are in final draft form. Council has also finalised the internal Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act training program in partnership with KKPAC and scheduled for delivery starting in FY25/26.
4.2 Destination Management PlanComplete and implement the Destination Management Plan in partnership with the community and Tourism Noosa to protect Noosa’s quality of life, environment and iconic places through planning for sustainable tourism and managing visitation and events. · 2 initiatives
4.2.1 Destination Management PlanQ4 · On Track · Individual Project Control Group (PCG) and External Reference Group meetings (15 meetings) were undertaken. Feedback from these meetings were included in the draft DMP document and presented to Council for further consideration. Special Meeting scheduled for August 2025 to endorse the draft DMP for the next phase community engagement.
4.2.2 Tourism Noosa PartnershipQ4 · Minor Disruption · Council endorsed a revised 12-month agreement at a Special Meeting in May 2025. Partnership Agreement (including Road Map) under review. Awaiting Q4 Report from Tourism Noosa to enable Annual Review.
4.3 Young peopleImprove opportunities for increased inclusion of young people in community engagement and decision-making to provide relevant services, activities, and opportunities. · 1 initiative
4.3.1 Youth engagementQ4 · On Track · The process has been initiated to establish a Community Engagement Feedback Panel, with steps being taken to ensure representation from a diverse cross-section of the community. Youth participation is being actively sought to incorporate younger perspectives into the decision- making and feedback process.
4.4 SEQ and Wide Bay regionProactively participate in regional planning and advocacy to ensure our current and future communities’ needs are identified and maintain the important role Noosa plays in the wider SEQ and Wide Bay regions. · 2 initiatives
4.4.1 Noosa Housing StrategyQ4 · Minor Disruption · Final amendments submitted to state in February 2025, now awaiting Ministerial approval for adoption and commencement.
4.4.2 Advocacy PlanQ4 · Completed
4.5 Towns and villagesImplement a place-based approach to working with individual towns/villages and address their specific needs within a whole-of-Council framework. · 1 initiative
4.5.1 Pomona Place PilotQ4 · On Track · Final Pomona Place Plan endorsed by Council March 2025. Evaluation report to be submitted to Council in August 2025.
4.6 Olympics 2032Prepare and plan for the Olympics and Paralympics 2032 to leverage the opportunities for our community leading up to 2032 and ensuring there is a legacy benefit beyond. · 2 initiatives
4.6.1 Brisbane Olympics planningQ4 · On Track · Evaluation of the latest developments and actions on Games planning is continuing through CoMSEQ and broader Games committees. Internal discussions with relevant impacted portfolios have commenced; however, the establishment of an internal working group has been paused pending greater clarity on the overall Brisbane 2032 strategic direction. Council staff resourcing has been allocated in the 2025/26 budget to progress planning.
4.6.2 Brisbane Olympics stakeholdersQ4 · Completed
4.7 Climate Change Response PlanFund and implement the Climate Change Response Plan to support Council, community and the local economy to build resilience and preparedness for climate risks and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2026. · 1 initiative
4.7.1 Emissions Offset StrategyQ4 · Minor Disruption · Roadmap to Net Zero Emissions project is underway with a series of Councillor workshops. Minor delays experienced due to FY25/26 budget uncertainty for Waste and Recovery Centre master planning, staff resource limitations, procurement, and grant applications. Completion is anticipated for end of Q2 FY25/26.
4.8 Disaster ManagementDeliver best practice approaches to combat and plan for natural disasters and climate change including supporting safety, preparedness, resilience and recovery capacity. · 5 initiatives
4.8.1 Climate Action RoadmapQ4 · Minor Disruption · Project has completed all stages and final reports have been received. QRA grant has been acquitted. Final Executive Steering Group meeting was postponed to August 2025 to align with Executive team availability. Report to ET and Council anticipated for for September 2025.
4.8.2 Disaster preparednessQ4 · Completed
4.8.3 Disaster RecoveryQ4 · On Track · Majority of reconstruction projects complete including major Black Mountain landslip. Final reconstruction project near completion. Human social Recovery Plan completed.
4.8.4 Coastal Hazards Adaptation PlanQ4 · On Track · Phase 2 of the Coastal Wetland Restoration Project with University of Queensland and KKPAC is underway. An initial site assessment on Cooloothin Creek Nature Refuge has been undertaken and grant funding is being sought through QCoast2100 Round 3. The Living Foreshores Noosa project continues to progress, with works at Hilton Esplanade scheduled to recommence in Q1 FY25/26.
4.8.5 Flood resilienceQ4 · Minor Disruption · The Climate Change Adaptation Program Lead role has now been filled with most flood projects back on track apart from Lake Entrance Blvd Flood Study Phase 2. Noosa River & SMC Catchment Flood Study Updates have experienced delays.
4.9 Future scenario planningUndertake scenario planning to explore potential future challenges and opportunities to help the Shire prepare and respond responsibly. · 1 initiative
4.9.1 Council revenue diversificationQ4 · On Track · Internal revenue diversification working group continue to meet, to advance a pipeline of work supported by the new Strategic Land Policy. Commercial diversification portfolio now sits within the Economic Development team in Environment and Strategy Department.
Excellence31 initiatives
5.1 Council customer experienceImprove the customer experience to prioritise customers' needs and outcomes throughout the entire customer journey. · 3 initiatives
5.1.1 Customer Experience ProgramQ4 · On Track · CX Steering Committee meets regularly; Systems & Processes, Customer Service Charter, Community Satisfaction Survey Working Groups formed; Councillors, Executive and Leadership Group briefed. Engaged a consultant to assist with the development of a CX roadmap involving stakeholder workshops. Implementation of actions constrained by available resourcing.
5.1.2 Community satisfactionQ4 · Completed
5.1.3 Council websiteQ4 · Completed
5.2 Financially sustainable CouncilContinue to deliver a financially sustainable Council that has the Provider resources now and into the future to achieve its strategic objectives. This will be supported through the introduction of enhanced sustainability reporting and performance indicators, as well as ESG (environment social and governance) accounting practices as guided by statutory requirements. · 5 initiatives
5.2.1 Sustainability FrameworkQ4 · On Track · A roadmap for embedding climate risk and sustainability has been developed. The grant application to QCRC for resources to progress phase one was unsuccessful, necessitating a pivot to focus limited resources on embedding only the sustainable procurement policy, guideline, and training—delivered in partnership with the Procurement team
5.2.2 Financial StrategyQ4 · Major Disruption · Strategic Land Review complete. Funding and Revenue Diversification Strategy at concept stage, with long-term Financial Strategy to be developed in FY25/26. Progress delayed due to resourcing constraints and competing priorities. Preliminary work commenced to develop the format and gather information to inform structure and scenario analysis.
5.2.3 Service Level CatalogueQ4 · Completed
5.2.4 Water and electricity metersQ4 · Minor Disruption · Utilities Analyst role assigned to Procurement Branch - Potential candidate withdrew interest in Q3. Note - new electricity contracts will commence in October and January (Streetlights and Large Sites) with noted savings.
5.2.5 Performance Measurement FrameworkQ4 · Major Disruption · A set of performance measures has been developed and is reported against as part of the quarterly Operational Plan Update. Formulation of the overarching Performance Measurement Framework is still outstanding due to resource constraints.
5.3 Council operationsEmbrace technology and innovative practices to support the provision of contemporary, efficient and effective levels of service for Council operations. · 4 initiatives
5.3.1 Council ICT and Digital StrategyQ4 · On Track · Resourcing constraints and competing priorities have limited progress but the initiative has regained traction in this quarter.
5.3.2 Local Laws reviewQ4 · Major Disruption · Councillor Workshop held 1 May 2025 which discussed various review options.
5.3.3 Integrated Enforcement and Compliance PolicyQ4 · Completed
5.3.4 Council operations improvementQ4 · On Track · Key departments have engaged business improvement officers to link in with ICT Business Improvement Officer to identify efficiencies and possible system upgrades or new systems requirements. The rollout of the system improvements is progressing well, and implementation is expected as programmed.
5.4 Council employee wellbeingProvide a progressive working environment and practices which prioritise the wellbeing, safety, inclusiveness and development of our people and establish Noosa Council as an employer of choice · 6 initiatives
5.4.1 Organisational capabilityQ4 · On Track · Annual branch plans to deliver on Operational Plan objectives are compulsory for all branches. New systems and upgrades are being identified, and a specific budget has been allocated to support their implementation. The work on an overall consolidated capability plan and framework is on the task list for 2025/26.
5.4.2 Workforce planningQ4 · On Track · People and Culture officers attended the LGAQ Workforce Strategy & Planning Forum on 30 October 2024. A draft Workforce Planning framework will commence being co-created with the ELT in Q2 2026.
5.4.3 Employee Thrive ProgramQ4 · Completed
5.4.4 Workplace health and safetyQ4 · Completed
5.4.5 Council Certified AgreementQ4 · Completed
5.4.6 Employee engagement surveyQ4 · Completed
5.5 Governance systemsProvide robust and transparent governance systems to build and strengthen community trust, supported by the implementation of an enterprise risk and opportunity management framework. · 6 initiatives
5.5.1 Risk management technologyQ4 · Minor Disruption · The system has been implemented for quarterly Operational Plan reporting. Progress on Operational Plan Initiatives is being tracked through the new Corporate Reporting System, with both the FY24/25 Q3 and Q4 reports successfully issued via this platform.
5.5.2 Strategic Risk RegisterQ4 · Minor Disruption · Workshop with councillors to commence a review of Council's Enterprise Risk and Opportunity Management Policy (EROMP) which includes Council's risk appetite is now scheduled for completion in FY25/26, with the support of Council's insurance provider (Regional Risk Coordinator). An update on Council's Strategic Risk Register will form part of the upcoming workshop. This financial year, the Councillors were reminded of the EROMP and to consider risk factors in their overall decision- making processes.
5.5.3 Audit and Risk CommitteeQ4 · On Track · Recommendations from the review are being progressively addressed, including but not limited to the review of the Committee Charter, Internal Audit Policy, and Rolling Work plan. Further, a Strategic Internal Audit Plan has been developed, and the Internal Action register has been reviewed.
5.5.4 Privacy PolicyQ4 · Completed
5.5.5 Corporate PlanQ4 · Completed
5.5.6 Contract Management FrameworkQ4 · Completed
5.6 Community engagementIncrease opportunities for meaningful collaborative community engagement which is highly representative of our community, especially our youth. · 1 initiative
5.6.1 Community engagement trainingQ4 · Completed
5.7 Council partnershipsPartner with other government agencies, commercial business and social enterprises to activate opportunities which will diversify Council’s revenue base or create alternative funding streams. · 3 initiatives
5.7.1 Council revenue diversificationQ4 · Minor Disruption · The project scope is nearing completion to investigate various funding models, including the concept of a futures fund. Options explored have included a visitor charge. Community consultation is currently underway as part of the Destination Management Plan process.
5.7.2 Boreen Point CampgroundQ4 · Major Disruption · Consultant engagement and design work have been completed. The project is currently on hold due to challenges in securing development approval under the existing scope and scale. Progression will remain paused until planning constraints are resolved, and alternative options have been reviewed.
5.7.3 Strategic Land ReviewQ4 · Completed
5.8 Asset managementMature the asset management framework and systems to ensure robust asset management practices are in place to deliver well-maintained quality assets. · 1 initiative
5.8.1 Asset Management FrameworkQ4 · On Track · Council adopted the Strategic Asset Management Plan 2024-2030 at the Services and Organisation Committee Meeting 10 Dec 24. The ongoing implementation of the Asset Management Framework is monitored through Council Asset Management Steering Committee. Renewed focus required on Total Asset Management Plans and asset renewal schedules for under-represented assets.
5.9 Equity for all residentsEnsure that all residents located throughout the Shire, both hinterland and coastal areas, have equitable access to the provision of quality assets, facilities and services. · 2 initiatives
5.9.1 Capital Works ProgramQ4 · On Track · Progress on the program is presented in a regular Quarterly Report to Council. As referenced in the quarterly report; resourcing and rising project costs pressures are proving challenging to deliver the program. Notwithstanding delivery pressures, good progress has been made on delivery, and considerable work undertaken to contain project costs. Additional resources have been approved for 25/26FY to better advance program in future years.
5.9.2 Local Government Infrastructure PlanQ4 · On Track · Report on 5 yearly review was submitted to Council March 2025 resolving to prepare LGIP amendment. Finalising technical input studies. Working across departments to review desired standards of service and identify schedule of works and costings.