Dear Residents

Since our election to Council in 2021, we have worked tirelessly to ensure we represent the interests of the Strathfield community and have made great strides in improving infrastructure, green space, social cohesion and community programs throughout 2023. This year resulted in a number of achievements throughout the following key areas.

Investing in Infrastructure and Open Space

Council was delighted to announce it was awarded over $21 million in grant funding as part of the WestInvest Program. This will fund four projects focussed on providing quality green and open spaces and community infrastructure at Airey Park, Begnell Field, Hudson Park and Strathfield Park.

Council officially opened the Hudson Park Stage 2 works in February. Stage 2 works included additional shade and seating, BBQ and sheltered picnic areas, children’ playground, outdoor fitness equipment and toilet amenities.

Lorraine Street and Hamilton Street pedestrian bridges across Powells Creek were completed with artwork installed in September. These bridges link Strathfield and City of Canada Bay Councils and improve connectivity in the area.

Community feedback resulted in a new public toilet being installed at the north-eastern corner of the Homebush West car park which also had modifications made to improve pedestrian and vehicle safety.

Activating Public Spaces

Council made a conscious effort to activate town centres within our LGA to bring the local community together. Australia Day was moved to Strathfield Square for the first time and saw record numbers as attendees supported local businesses whilst enjoying the festivities on offer. 

A new event, Strathfield Festival, was hosted in Strathfield Square over 3 days in April. Attendees were treated to local culture through food, music and dance. Council also screened 8 FIFA Women's World Cup matches in the Square as the spirit of the Matildas took the country by storm and organised the inaugural Homebush Vibes along Rochester Street in September. These events resulted in over 45,000 people visiting our town centres.

Delivering Programs and Services For Our Community

Council successfully trialled and implemented extended after hours access to the library. Our initiatives were recognised as finalists in the category of Customer Experience in the NSW Local Government Professionals Excellence Awards.

Our Ironbark Gallery housed five major exhibitions including displays and talks on history and art historical exhibitions showcasing our local community. We also granted over $67,000 to community organisations for a diverse range of initiatives that support local resident involvement in community-based activities.

Council expanded our popular weekly Library youth drop-in service to include children and held our first Youth Careers Expo.

Planning For The Future

Council commenced a number of key strategic studies that will support the future growth and development across the LGA. This includes a study to investigate opportunities
for additional medium density housing options which aims to assist supporting housing affordability. An Affordable Housing Tenancy policy was also adopted and will govern Council's Affordable Housing Portfolio.

Each achievement is the direct result of hard effort and team work by Council staff. We would like to thank our community for your continued support and look forward to achieving new milestones throughout 2024.