MINUTES OF THE COUNCIL OF BURWOOD held in the Conference Room, Level 1, 2 Conder Street, Burwood on Tuesday 22 July 2025 commencing at 6:01 PM.
Attendance Councillor John Faker (Mayor)
Councillor George Mannah (Deputy Mayor)
Councillor Sukirti Bhatta
Councillor Pascale Esber
Councillor David Hull
Councillor De Yi Wu-Coshott
Councillor Alex Yang
Opening of Meeting by the Mayor
The Mayor opened the meeting with a prayer and Acknowledgement of Country.
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Declarations of Interest
There were no declarations of interests by Councillors.
Declarations of Political Donations
There were no declarations of political interests by Councillors.
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68/25 |
That the minutes of the ordinary meeting of the Council Meeting held on Monday 23 June 2025, as circulated, be confirmed and signed as a true record of the proceedings of the meeting.
For: Cr Faker, Cr Mannah, Cr Esber, Cr Hull, Cr Bhatta, Cr Wu-Coshott, Cr Yang Against: Nil (Moved Councillor Sukirti Bhatta/Seconded Councillor Pascale Esber) |
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69/25 |
That Standing Orders be Suspended to enable a motion of urgency to be moved under clause 9.3 of the Code of Meeting Practice to deal with a matter of significance, being the recognition of the Mayor’s 25 years of service in local government.
For: Cr Faker, Cr Mannah, Cr Esber, Cr Hull, Cr Bhatta, Cr Wu-Coshott, Cr Yang Against: Nil (Moved Councillor Sukirti Bhatta/Seconded Deputy Mayor George Mannah) |
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It is with great pride that I now speak to the motion to formally recognise the Mayor of Burwood, Cr John Faker for 25 years of service in local government.
This is not just a milestone in years, it is a testament to decades of commitment, advocacy, leadership and unwavering service to the Burwood community. This kind of longevity in public life speaks volumes, about commitment, about resilience, and most importantly, about a deep and enduring connection to the people of Burwood.
From being elected as the youngest-ever Mayor of Burwood to becoming its first popularly elected Mayor, and serving in this capacity with distinction ever since, Mayor Faker has shown what true public service looks like. His leadership has helped shape a stronger, more connected Burwood. He’s led through growth, through challenge, and through change, always with a focus on what matters most to the people who call Burwood home.
Over the years, we’ve seen Mayor Faker champion countless projects and reforms that have shaped Burwood into the vibrant, culturally rich, and dynamic centre it is today. Whether it was the revitalisation of public spaces, major infrastructure investments, or supporting small businesses through times of economic uncertainty, Mayor Faker’s leadership has always been grounded in practical outcomes and long-term vision.
One of his most significant contributions has been his tireless advocacy for better public transport and infrastructure. He’s played a key role advocating for the delivery of the Burwood North Metro Station, the transformation of our main streets and open spaces, and the reimagining of how people move through and experience our town centre, more recently leading the discussion about the need for light rail along Parramatta Road to support future growth, improve east–west connectivity, and unlock the full potential of one of Sydney’s most important urban corridors.
Equally important is his commitment to community wellbeing, from investing in upgraded parks and playgrounds, to ensuring equitable access to services and facilities. He has never lost sight of the importance of inclusion, and has been a consistent supporter of cultural celebration, social cohesion, and grassroots engagement. During the COVID-19 pandemic, his leadership was especially evident. At a time of great uncertainty, he provided a calm and steady presence, ensuring Council remained responsive, compassionate, and connected to the needs of the community. From supporting local businesses and vulnerable residents to promoting public health messaging and resilience, he helped guide Burwood through one of the most challenging periods in recent history.
This milestone also reflects a broader contribution to our region through his role as President of the Southern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils, where for the past 12 years he has worked to champion collaboration and amplify our collective voice. His ability to bring people together, across councils, communities, and governments, has left a lasting mark on how we work together in local government.
25 years is more than a number. It’s a legacy built on dedication, vision, and a passion for serving others. It’s a reminder that strong local leadership can shape places, strengthen communities, and inspire future generations. And while tonight we reflect on the past, it’s also clear that his impact will continue to be felt well into the future.
As such, I would like to put forward the following motion: that Council note and recognise the significant milestone of 25 years of service by Mayor John Faker to local government, and place on record its appreciation for his contribution to the Burwood community and the region.
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70/25 |
That Council note and recognise the significant milestone of 25 years of service by Mayor John Faker to local government, and place on record its appreciation for his contribution to the Burwood community and the region.
For: Cr Faker, Cr Mannah, Cr Esber, Cr Hull, Cr Bhatta, Cr Wu-Coshott, Cr Yang Against: Nil (Moved Councillor Sukirti Bhatta/Seconded Deputy Mayor George Mannah) |
Mayoral Minutes
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File No: 25/35206 |
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Summary
This report recommends the introduction of interactive plaques at local memorials and historical sites. These plaques, which may be installed in the ground or on stands, would feature QR codes that link to digital content providing historical context and background about each location. This initiative aims to enhance visitor experience, support education, and preserve local heritage through accessible and engaging technology.
Operational Plan Objective
C.1.1 Support and deliver
initiatives that encourage social inclusion and community connections.
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71/25 |
That Council officers investigate the feasibility of installing interactive QR code plaques at key memorials and historical sites across the local government area, including considerations around site suitability, estimated costs, content development, and partnership opportunities. A report with recommendations is to be brought back to Council for consideration.
For: Cr Faker, Cr Mannah, Cr Esber, Cr Hull, Cr Bhatta, Cr Wu-Coshott, Cr Yang Against: Nil (Moved Mayor John Faker/Seconded Deputy Mayor George Mannah) |
Reports to Council
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(Item 37/25) Draft Codes of Conduct and Procedures for the Administration of the Codes of Conduct - Endorsement for Public Exhibition
File No: 25/30525 |
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Summary
The Model Code of Conduct for Local Councils in NSW (Model Code) and the Procedures for the Administration of the Model Code of Conduct for Local Councils in NSW (Model Procedures) are prescribed under the Local Government Act 1993 and the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021.
Councils are required to formally adopt a Code of Conduct that incorporates the provisions of the Model Code within 12 months of an ordinary Council election. Councils should adopt Procedures incorporating the provisions of the Model Procedures as soon as practicable.
Operational Plan Objective
C.11.1 Conduct Council business with transparency, accountability, compliance and probity that ensures community confidence in decision making
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72/25 |
Resolved
That Council: 1. endorses the public exhibition of the three targeted versions of the Codes of Conduct appearing as Attachments 1, 2 and 3 to this report and the Procedures for the Administration of the Codes of Conduct appearing as Attachment 4 to this report for a period of 28 days, and 2. directs the General Manager to report the outcomes of the public exhibition of the four instruments to the next ordinary meeting of Council following the conclusion of the public exhibition period.
For: Cr Faker, Cr Mannah, Cr Esber, Cr Hull, Cr Bhatta, Cr Wu-Coshott, Cr Yang Against: Nil (Moved Deputy Mayor George Mannah/Seconded Councillor Pascale Esber) |
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File No: 25/33678 |
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Summary
The Gifts and Benefits Policy previously adopted by Council requires the policy to be reviewed within 12 months of a council election. The policy provides guidance to council officials on what to do if they are offered a gift or benefit to protect themselves from being compromised, or giving rise to the perception of being compromised, in the course of their duties.
Operational Plan Objective
C.11.1 Conduct Council business with transparency, accountability, compliance and probity that ensures community confidence in decision making
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73/25 |
Resolved
That Council: 1. endorses the public exhibition of the proposed Gifts and Benefits Policy contained in Attachment 1 for a period of 28 days, and 2. directs the General Manager to report the outcomes of the public exhibition to the next ordinary meeting of Council following the conclusion of the public exhibition period.
For: Cr Faker, Cr Mannah, Cr Esber, Cr Hull, Cr Bhatta, Cr Wu-Coshott, Cr Yang Against: Nil (Moved Councillor Alex Yang/Seconded Councillor Sukirti Bhatta) |
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File No: 25/31033 |
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Summary
Section 360 of the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act) requires Council, within 12 months of an ordinary election of councillors, to adopt a Code of Meeting Practice that incorporates the mandatory provisions of the Model Meeting Code prescribed by the regulations.
Operational Plan Objective
C11.1 Conduct Council business with transparency, accountability, compliance and probity that ensures community confidence in decision making
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74/25 |
Resolved
That Council: 1. endorses the draft Burwood Council Code of Meeting Practice, contained in Attachment 1 to this report, 2. places the draft on public exhibition for a period of 28 days and allows 42 days for receipt of public submissions, as required by legislation, and 3. directs the General Manager to report on the outcome of the public exhibition, and any submissions that are received, at the next ordinary meeting of Council following the last date for lodgement of submissions following exhibition.
For: Cr Faker, Cr Mannah, Cr Esber, Cr Hull, Cr Bhatta, Cr Wu-Coshott, Cr Yang Against: Nil (Moved Councillor Pascale Esber/Seconded Councillor Alex Yang) |
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File No: 25/31835 |
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Summary
The current Interaction Between Council Officials Policy adopted by Council on 22 November 2022 requires the policy to be reviewed within 12 months of an ordinary council election. The proposed revised policy makes minor changes to the current policy.
Operational Plan Objective
C11.1 Conduct Council business with transparency, accountability, compliance and probity that ensures community confidence in decision making
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75/25 |
ResolvedThat Council: 1. endorse the public exhibition of the proposed Interaction Between Council Officials Policy contained in Attachment 1 to this report for a period of 28 days, and 2. directs the General Manager to report the outcomes of the public exhibition to the next ordinary meeting of Council following the conclusion of the public exhibition period.
For: Cr Faker, Cr Mannah, Cr Esber, Cr Hull, Cr Bhatta, Cr Wu-Coshott, Cr Yang Against: Nil (Moved Councillor Alex Yang/Seconded Councillor Sukirti Bhatta) |
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File No: 25/26960 |
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Summary
Under Sections 20 and 22 of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (GIPAA), Council is required to publish an Agency Information Guide at least once every 12 months. The purpose of the Guide is to provide the community with information concerning Council and how to access information held by Council. The purpose of this report is to seek endorsement of the new Burwood Council Agency Information Guide.
Operational Plan Objective
A.105 Ensure all public information is accessible and made available in a timely manner.
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76/25 |
Resolved
1. That Council adopts the revised Agency Information Guide – Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 for publication on its website.
2. That the General Manager be authorised to make any minor changes required by the Information and Privacy Commission, prior to publication of the Guide on the website.
For: Cr Faker, Cr Mannah, Cr Esber, Cr Hull, Cr Bhatta, Cr Wu-Coshott, Cr Yang Against: Nil (Moved Councillor Pascale Esber/Seconded Deputy Mayor George Mannah) |
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File No: 24/11363 |
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Summary
This report proposes the adoption of a Risk Management Policy and Risk Appetite Statement (RAS), following a recent review of Council’s Risk Management Framework.
Operational Plan Objective
A.113 Review and implement improvements to Council's Risk Management Framework
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77/25 |
Resolved
That Council: 1. endorses for public exhibition for a period of 28 days the draft Risk Management Policy at Attachment 1 to this report 2. requires the General Manager to report back to Council on the outcome of the public exhibition and table the draft policy for formal adoption by Council 3. approves the Risk Appetite Statement at Attachment 2 to this report 4. notes the broad integrated approach to risk management taken by Council, as outlined in the Risk Management Framework at Attachment 3 to this report.
For: Cr Faker, Cr Mannah, Cr Esber, Cr Hull, Cr Bhatta, Cr Wu-Coshott, Cr Yang Against: Nil (Moved Councillor Alex Yang/Seconded Councillor Sukirti Bhatta) |
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(Item 43/25) Mayoral Civic Recognition, Condolences and Small Donations - Period Ending 30 June 2025
File No: 25/27485 |
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Summary
The Civic Recognition, Condolences and Small Donations Policy was reviewed by Council and adopted on 28 June 2022. As part of the Policy requirements, a list of donations and gifts made is to be reported to Council. The attached table details all the Discretionary Grants and Gifts for the period 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025.
Operational Plan Objective
C.10 A well informed community active in civic life, local planning and decision making. C.11.1 Conduct Council business with transparency, accountability, compliance and probity that ensures community confidence in decision making.
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78/25 |
Resolved
That Council receive and note this report.
For: Cr Faker, Cr Mannah, Cr Esber, Cr Hull, Cr Bhatta, Cr Wu-Coshott, Cr Yang Against: Nil (Moved Councillor Alex Yang/Seconded Deputy Mayor George Mannah) |
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File No: 25/29051 |
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Summary
The Burwood Design Review Panel (BDRP) has now been in operation for three years, with the current panel membership due for renewal and existing member contracts scheduled to expire in August 2025. This report seeks Council’s endorsement to continue the operations of the BDRP and to invite fresh Expressions of Interest (EOIs) to establish a new rotation of panel members, through either the reappointment of existing members or the appointment of new members. To allow sufficient time to undertake the EOI process and ensure continuity of panel operations, it is proposed that the current member contracts be extended by six months.
Operational Plan Objective
A.32 Ensure that design excellence is assessed as part of the development application process C.3 An urban environment that maintains and enhances our sense of identity and place. C.3.1 Facilitate well designed, high quality and sustainable land use and development that is appropriately scaled to complement its surroundings. C3.2 Protect our unique built heritage and maintain or enhance local character. C.4 Sustainable, integrated transport, infrastructure and networks support population growth and improve liveability and productivity. C.4.2 Plan for a city that is safe, accessible and easy to get to and move around in. A.98 Undertake comprehensive community engagement programs to seek community input on Council projects, operations, initiatives and major decisions.
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79/25 |
That Council:
1. Endorse the continuation of the Burwood Design Review Panel until December 2028.
2. Approve an update the Burwood Design Review Panel Terms of Reference as detailed in Attachment 2.
3. Authorise the General Manager to extend the contracts of current members of the Burwood Design Review Panel by six months from their scheduled termination in August 2025, to facilitate the review of EOI submissions and recommendations for a new rotation of panel members.
4. Authorise the General Manager to undertake an Expression of Interest (EOI) process for new memberships to the Burwood Design Review Panel.
5. Require the General Manager to provide a report to Council before December 2025 detailing the outcomes of the EOI process and recommending appointments to the new rotation of Burwood Design Review Panel members.
For: Cr Faker, Cr Mannah, Cr Esber, Cr Hull, Cr Bhatta, Cr Wu-Coshott, Cr Yang Against: Nil (Moved Councillor Pascale Esber/Seconded Councillor Alex Yang) |
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File No: 25/33476 |
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Summary
In accordance with Clause 212 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005, this report details all money that Council has invested under Section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993.
Operational Plan Objective
A.103 Implement and monitor appropriate investment strategies and prepare monthly investment reports.
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80/25 |
Resolved1. That the investment report for 30 June 2025 be received and endorsed. 2. That the Certificate of the Responsible Accounting Officer be received and noted.
For: Cr Faker, Cr Mannah, Cr Esber, Cr Hull, Cr Bhatta, Cr Wu-Coshott, Cr Yang Against: Nil (Moved Councillor Sukirti Bhatta/Seconded Councillor De Yi Wu-Coshott) |
Reports of Committees
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File No: 25/34272 |
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SummaryAttached are the Minutes of the Burwood Local Traffic Committee meeting of July 2025. The Minutes are hereby submitted to the Ordinary Council Meeting for consideration and adoption by Council.
Operational Plan Objective C.4.1 Plan and manage transport infrastructure to meet current and future community needs A.40 Investigate traffic hot spots and implement solutions such as pedestrian refuges, roundabouts or traffic calming devices.
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81/25 |
That the minutes of the Burwood Local Traffic Committee of July 2025 be noted and the recommendations of the Committee as detailed below be adopted as a resolution of the Council.
(Item LTC27/25) Elm Street, Burwood Heights - Changes to Parking Restrictions
Recommendation
That Council approve the additional ‘No Parking 4.00am-7.30am Monday’ restrictions along the existing ‘1/4P’ restricted area in front 7 Elm Street.
(Item LTC28/25) Lees Avenue, Croydon Park - Request for Work Zone
Recommendation
That council approve the installation of a “Work Zone –7:00am to 5:30pm Monday to Friday & 7:00am to 1:00pm Saturday” on Lees Avenue direct frontage of 64 Linthorn Avenue, Croydon Park, for a length of 20m and a period of 43 weeks.
(Item LTC29/25) Dickinson Avenue, Croydon - Request for Mobility Parking Space
Recommendation
That Council approve the installation of a 6.7m long mobility parking space on-street along the frontage of 28 Dickinson Avenue per the plan in the report.
(Item LTC30/25) Park Avenue, Burwood - Introduction of Mobility Parking
Recommendation
That Council approve the installation of two mobility parking spaces on the northern side of Park Avenue Burwood in the two most western 90 degree angled parking spaces.
(Item LTC31/25) Rolling Road Closure - Walk to End Domestic Violence
Recommendations
1. That Council approve the rolling road closure for the Walk to End Domestic Violence along Park Avenue to Burwood Park, starting at the intersection of Park Avenue and Park Road and continuing to the intersection of Park Avenue and Burwood Road, on Sunday 24 August 2025, from 9:00am to 9:30am.
2. That Burwood Police are to provide traffic control for the event in accordance with requirements from Transport for NSW.
3. That the rolling road closure be noted as a Class 3 Event.
For: Cr Faker, Cr Mannah, Cr Esber, Cr Hull, Cr Bhatta, Cr Wu-Coshott, Cr Yang Against: Nil (Moved Deputy Mayor George Mannah/Seconded Councillor Alex Yang) |
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82/25 |
That the meeting move into closed session at 6:33 PM in order to consider items: (Item MM11/25) General Manager's Performance Review 2024-25 That above item be considered in Closed Session to the exclusion of the press and public in accordance with Section 10A(2) (a) of the Local Government Act, 1993, as the matter involves personnel matters concerning particular individuals. (Item 46/25) Bus Shelters & Bollards with Advertising Capabilities That above item be considered in Closed Session to the exclusion of the press and public in accordance with Section 10A(2) (d) of the Local Government Act, 1993, as the matter involves commercial information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed (i) prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it, or (ii) confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the council, or (iii) reveal a trade secret. (Item 47/25) Property Portfolio Review That above item be considered in Closed Session to the exclusion of the press and public in accordance with Section 10A(2) (d) of the Local Government Act, 1993, as the matter involves commercial information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed (i) prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it, or (ii) confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the council, or (iii) reveal a trade secret.
and the public and press be excluded from the meeting.
For: Cr Faker, Cr Mannah, Cr Esber, Cr Hull, Cr Bhatta, Cr Wu-Coshott, Cr Yang Against: Nil (Moved Councillor Pascale Esber/Seconded Councillor Alex Yang) |
There were no representatives from the public to address the council before the resolution to move into closed session was carried.
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File No: 25/35408 |
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83/25 |
That:
a) Council congratulates the General Manager Tommaso Briscese on his strong performance during the review period 2024-2025, noting that Council has already acknowledged his successful performance by renewing his contract in February for a period of five years;
b) That the General Manager Performance Review Panel develop a framework of incentives for the General Manager to acknowledge and recognise the additional workload generated by Council’s ambitious $110 million Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants program and other grant funded projects over the next 3 – 4 years.
c) That the key targets and priorities outlined in the circulated documentation be adopted and included in the General Manager’s Performance Agreement 2025-2026.
For: Cr Faker, Cr Mannah, Cr Esber, Cr Hull, Cr Bhatta, Cr Wu-Coshott, Cr Yang Against: Nil (Moved Councillor Pascale Esber/Seconded Councillor Sukirti Bhatta) |
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File No: 25/33479 |
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84/25 |
Resolved
That Council note the outcome of the evaluation process for the provision of bus shelters and advertising bollards, and the award of the contract to JCDecaux Australia for a 10-year term.
For: Cr Faker, Cr Mannah, Cr Esber, Cr Hull, Cr Bhatta, Cr Wu-Coshott, Cr Yang Against: Nil (Moved Deputy Mayor George Mannah/Seconded Councillor Sukirti Bhatta) |
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File No: 25/32981 |
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85/25 |
Resolved
That Council Note the findings of the property portfolio review as detailed in this report.
For: Cr Faker, Cr Mannah, Cr Esber, Cr Hull, Cr Bhatta, Cr Wu-Coshott, Cr Yang Against: Nil (Moved Deputy Mayor George Mannah/Seconded Councillor De Yi Wu-Coshott) |
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86/25 |
That the meeting resume in open session at 6:36 PM.
For: Cr Faker, Cr Mannah, Cr Esber, Cr Hull, Cr Bhatta, Cr Wu-Coshott, Cr Yang Against: Nil (Moved Councillor Alex Yang/Seconded Councillor Sukirti Bhatta) |
The Mayor read the resolution of the closed session item MM11/25 listed above, minute number 83/25.
The General Manager read the resolutions of the closed session items 46/25 and 47/25 listed above, minute numbers 84/25 and 85/25.
This concluded the business of the meeting and Council rose at 6:38 PM.
