Media Centre

The First Nations Peoples of Australia deserve a conversation about how we respectfully celebrate our national identity, rather than a confected debate about dress codes and threats to strip local governments of their rights to hold citizenship ceremonies. 

The Mayor of Darebin, Susan Rennie, strongly reaffirmed Council’s position that the date of Australia’s national celebration must be changed to pay the deserved respect to our country’s First Nations People.

“Our national day needs to be genuinely celebratory, inclusive and meaningful, which means the date must be changed from the hurtful and deeply divisive January 26. We need to find a day that includes, honours and celebrates the First Nations peoples who have lived on this land for over 60,000 years prior to European settlement,” Mayor Rennie said. 

“The PM’s announcement was a public relations stunt designed to further divide this country and stir the dying embers of a culture war, and is a condescending and insulting debate.”

Mayor Rennie said Darebin Council’s stand on changing the date of Australia Day aligns with the values of the community, and the Council demonstrates its commitment to and respect for everyone who lives within the municipality by taking positions such as this and many others. 

“Darebin Council has been criticised for taking these stands, told to stick to “roads, rates and rubbish” and that matters such as Australia Day are none of our business. But if there are people within our community who are discriminated against or marginalised, then it is absolutely our responsibility to give them a voice, and we will continue to do so. 

“We are not anti-Australia Day, nor opposed to the celebration of national identity - we are simply opposed to celebrating our national identity on a date that is not inclusive and respectful of First Nations peoples.”

Mayor Rennie said she was disappointed the calls of the First Nations Peoples to change the date continue to be disregarded by the Federal Government and that instead of talking about this, the national debate appears to be focused on citizenship ceremonies.

“We are being subjected to debates on dress codes and threats of stripping the rights of democratically elected local governments to hold citizenship ceremonies if they choose not to hold events on the 26th.

“Instead of talking about a significant and momentous point in our history where we could be demonstrating our maturity as a country, the issue has been reduced to a “boardies, thongs and BBQs, but only after the ceremony” media opportunity and yet another chance to belittle the government closest to the people.

“The First Nations Peoples of Australia, and indeed all Australians, deserve better than this.”

Media release: 16 January 2019 

The grants, which range from $2000-4000, will support community projects which positively impact the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, gender diverse or queer (LGBTIQ) people and communities connected to Darebin.

The successful projects are:

Matrix Guild Victoria: Providing social connection for older and isolated lesbians.
Jika Jika Community Centre: A series of information, discussion and referral sessions for parents and carers of LGBTIQ young people to help them thrive.
Australian GLBTIQ Multicultural Association: A celebratory shared meal for Muslim LGBTIQ people joined by community and faith leaders of Darebin to foster stronger connections.
Holy Trinity Cricket Club: To become the first Australian cricket club to host the Pride Cup for a one-day competition event.
Minus 18: A series of workshops delivered by young people for schools and services in Darebin to foster inclusion and understanding of LGBTIQ people as students, employees and service users.
Thornbury Kindergarten: Support and resources to strengthen inclusion for LGBTIQ children, parents, carers and families.
Victorian Roller Derby League: A hardship fund to address the financial barriers that can limit LGBTIQ members’ participation in competitions.
SPAN Community House: A series of creative art therapy workshops culminating in a community exhibition.
Unicorns Fitness: Ensure the longer-term viability of a current program which provides a welcoming and safe environment for LGBTIQ to exercise together.

A total of $33,625 was awarded to the projects. 

The grant winners were informed during the week of the one year anniversary of marriage equality being legislated in Australia.

Media release: 19 December 2018

As well as the regular great books and services Darebin’s four libraries offer to customers, an additional series of events will be held to make the most of the summer period.

The Summer Reading Challenge is now on and there are some great prizes to be won.  The Challenge is open to children aged up to 12 years old. Collect a Challenger Passport from a branch of Darebin Libraries to enter, complete the four fun-filled library challenges, and then return the completed Passport before 18 January.

To celebrate the end of the Summer Reading Challenge a free magic show will be held at Preston Library on 22 January where the winners will be announced.

The School Holiday Program will begin in January and the first program for the year has a science and art theme, perfect for curious and creative kids.  Bookings open on 16 December.

On 20 December a classic boardgames night for adults will be held from 6:30pm with games like Yahtzee, Dominoes, Backgammon, Draughts and Pictionary available to play with other likeminded game enthusiasts.

Visitors will also be able to catch some of the latest cinema blockbusters during the Summer of Film.

Movies like Black Panther, Ocean’s 8, The Breaker Upperers, and Isle of Dogs (among many others), will be shown at Northcote, Preston and Reservoir libraries throughout January. Popcorn and light refreshments will be supplied, and movie-goers are advised to BYO cup.

The libraries have also been stocked with extra copies of some of the best books published this year to accommodate for extra visitors looking for reading inspiration over the holidays. Check out our staff picks under the Summer Books We’re Lovin’ campaign online.

All council libraries will have altered opening hours during the festive period beginning from 24 December, and will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

Normal hours will resume on 2 January.

For more information, visit darebinlibraries.vic.gov.au

Media release: 14 December 2018

Council will also no longer provide community grants, financial assistance, or in kind support to any sporting club, community group, organisation or association that receives sponsorship or grants (in-kind or cash) from gaming machine revenue, or meet in venues that have EGMs.

Importantly though, the policy will create a pathway for clubs and community groups to reduce their involvement with EGMs as sources of revenue or recreational locations.

Darebin locals are being urged to back their neighbours, their mates, and their coworkers in a new campaign aimed at reversing, modifying or slowing cuts to a federal government scheme that has helped thousands of people transition to new lives, into jobs and to become key members of communities across Australia. 

Earlier this year, the federal government outlined a plan to cut support from up to 7,000 people on the status resolution support services (SRSS) payment who had come to Australia fleeing war and persecution. 

The scheme provides payments to asylum seekers living in the Australian community while the federal government finalises their protection claim. It provides a living allowance – usually 89 per cent of the Newstart allowance, or $247 per week per single adult – along with casework support and access to torture and trauma counselling. 

The Local Government Mayoral Taskforce Supporting People Seeking Asylum is co-ordinating the campaign. Chairperson Cr Roz Blades, from the City of Greater Dandenong said: 

“Since World War II, Australia has welcomed more than 800,000 people who’ve fled war and persecution. These people have contributed to our communities and our country on every level, from our culture to our sporting traditions, from medicine to the law, from science and research to our global reputation for excellence in the culinary arts. 

“The cuts to the support program are out of step with community expectations. 

“In the wake of the shock election result in Victoria, we call on all Federal MPs – Labor, Nationals, Liberals, Greens, minor parties and independents – to impress on their colleagues the need to reverse these unnecessary and cruel cuts.”

Darebin Mayor Cr Susan Rennie said she was proud the City of Darebin, an executive member of the Mayoral Taskforce, was taking a stand in supporting asylum seekers affected by the proposed cuts. 

“We’re strongly urging politicians to reject the proposed cuts.”

“The cuts will affect people who are studying full-time, and would negatively impact on their ability to obtain training and qualifications in an effort to improve their and their family’s lives.

“The proposal could force people to abandon their studies.

“Instead, the Government should commit to continue supporting asylum seekers on the status resolution support service payments.”

People who have fled persecution and war are our neighbours and friends, our lawyers and our doctors, our nurses and our baristas, our scientists and our surgeons, our life savers and our chefs. And often they are our family members. 

That is why today, we are calling on every Australian to get behind our campaign Back Your Neighbour, Back Your Mate, Back Your Colleague and back people arriving in our communities fleeing war and persecution. 

We are calling on Australians to tell the Federal Government that we don’t need to cut the SRSS program, that we don’t need to put many people – who might otherwise become our doctors, nurses, lawyers, colleagues, friends and neighbours – out on the streets. 

For more information visit backyourneighbour.com.au or facebook.com/backyourneighbour to join the campaign. 

Media release: 3 December 2018

In her speech Mayor Rennie said she was honoured and proud to have been elected Mayor of Darebin and was looking forward to leading a Council that continues to deliver exceptional services to the local community.

“This Council is at the halfway point of an incredible journey,” Mayor Rennie said. 

“Our first two years have been outstanding, with several significant pieces of work achieved as part of our Council Plan. But we have only completed part of the job.

“Our next two years will be about ensuring that we as Councillors do everything we can to support the organisation to deliver on the balance of that plan, as well as listen to our community to ensure we are providing the leadership and vision it deserves.”

Mayor Rennie opened her speech with an Acknowledgment of Country, first in Woiwurrung, the traditional language of the Wurundjeri people, and then in English. 

“It is deeply personal to me to acknowledge the traditional owners of this land we stand on in Woiwurrung language. I understand the significance of respecting the culture and language of a people in their own place and my commitment to improving rights for our First Australians is unwavering. 

“Acknowledging the members of the Kulin nation in language is profoundly important and I believe it’s a fundamental sign of respect.”

Mayor Rennie said the Council will continue to deliver on a strong social agenda and deliver progressive policies and projects that reflect the diverse and engaged community that makes up Darebin “from the north to the south, from Reservoir to Ruckers Hill and every street, park, shopping strip in between”.

Mayor Rennie thanked outgoing Mayor Cr Le Cerf, and said she had demonstrated exceptional leadership during the past two years. She also thanked her fellow Councillors for giving her the privilege of leading Darebin Council.

Cr Susanne Newton was elected to the position of Deputy Mayor.

Media release: 26 November 2018

Through these Strategies, council aims to make it easier and more accessible for everyone including pedestrians, bike riders, children, people with disabilities and older adults to safely get to their destinations in Darebin.

There is also a particular emphasis on encouraging people to walk more often, especially for short journeys, as a way of managing the increasing demands and activity in the growing city.

Both of these Strategies set the course for Council to make it easier and safer for residents and visitors within the municipality. Full implementation of required infrastructure will take many years but some projects are already underway.

One of the major goals of the Walking Strategy is to upgrade the walking network and enhance connectivity across Darebin.

In 2019, Council will install a new signalised pedestrian crossing at Separation Street and Oamaru Street in Northcote. Crossing facilities will be also be upgraded where side streets have a wide crossing distance including those at South Crescent and Wastell Street in Northcote.

Mayor of Darebin, Cr Susan Rennie, said that Council is committed to achieving a sustainable, functional and liveable city.

“We will be continuing our work around local primary schools to improve safety, including crossing improvements at Newlands Primary School and implementing more speed reductions on local streets to 40 kilometres per hour,” said Cr Rennie.

 “Council will be designing our next two Streets for People corridors in Preston (Gower and Cramer Streets) and Reservoir (Broadhurst and Crookston Streets) with input from the community on how to make these streets better for cyclists and pedestrians,” she added.

“Lower speed limits are demonstrated to make our streets safer, and more inviting for people of all ages to walk or ride.”

The Darebin Council Plan 2017-2021 commits to reduce the speed limit to 40 kilometres per hour across 30 per cent of the municipality. Council is now implementing these speed limit reductions in local residential areas with existing vehicle speeds, road layout, presence of traffic management devices and VicRoads criteria for speed limit reductions guiding the project.

The Safe Travel Strategy 2018-2028 can be viewed at darebin.vic.gov.au/safetravel and the Darebin Walking Strategy 2018-2028 at darebin.vic.gov.au/walking.

Both of these Strategies are aligned with the International Charter for Walking and State Government’s Towards Zero Road Safety framework.

Details on Council’s work with schools, speed limit reductions and Streets for People corridors can be found at darebin.vic.gov.au/Transport.

Media release: 29 November 2018

Community Events and Quick Response Community Events are available to groups and individuals who are seeking to mount a new, first-time community event that celebrates people and place.

The exhibition brings together artworks that explore issues of exploitation, mining for gold and desecration of the natural environment. The selected works interrogate wealth and the Australian dream of finding a better life — a fair go — in the context of cultural, racial and political inequalities.

The exhibition curators said that in today’s climate of highly divisive politics and growing inequality across cross-sections of society, Lucky? forces us to confront ideas surrounding Australian identity.

Mayor of Darebin, Cr Kim Le Cerf said the exhibition is an opportunity for the City of Darebin to continue to lead conversations about important issues like Indigenous custodianship of the land, multiculturalism and respect for our natural resources.

“The exhibition is told through various cultural narratives and subjective histories,” said Cr Le Cerf.

“In researching this highly politicised topic, the curators were mindful of honouring the voices of the First Nation peoples — the traditional custodians of the land, as well as how Australian Chinese people have forged their path in Australia’s culturally diverse history.”

Lucky? provides a chance to reflect on the foundations of contemporary Australian life, from wealth generation to immigration and all people seeking a better life.
The exhibition brings together diverse voices to respond to these questions, including esteemed Indigenous Australian and Chinese Australian artists.

The featured artists are: Paola Balla, Aliça Bryson-Haynes, Shoufay Derz, Marlene Gilson, Jonathan Jones, Eugenia Lim, Danie Mellor, Raquel Ormella, Ryan Presley, Lizzy Sampson and John Young. The Exhibition Advisor is Yhonnie Scarce.

Lucky? will be on display from 17 November 2018 to 3 March 2019.

There will be an opening event on Saturday 17 November from 2pm to 4pm, with artist and curator talks taking place from 3pm. Everyone is welcome to attend

Media Release - 25 October 2018

In a landmark decision to support women and girls’ participation in sport, the Council’s vote marks a significant step towards the target of increasing the number of women and girls participating in organised sport to at least 30 per cent by 2020.

The Darebin Falcons were established in 1990 and have more than 550 playing members.

The club has participated in the VFLW’s competition since its inception and also offers girls and women the opportunity to play soccer and Australian Football League (AFL) from four years of age through to seniors. The club also fields an under 12 cricket team and an 8-ball team.

Mayor of Darebin, Cr Kim Le Cerf, said the Falcons play an important role in the community by pioneering and fostering sport run by women for women at all levels.

“Their participation in elite competition is inspiring for women and girls and their commitment to social inclusion and community is outstanding,” said Cr Le Cerf.

“Council sees this as a unique opportunity to partner with the Darebin Falcons and secure their future as the sole women-only club in the VFLW, with a whole range of benefits for the Darebin community.”

Addressing the Council meeting last night, Darebin Falcons Club President Sarah Brady noted that while the Falcons have a long and impressive track record of achievements they were facing the toughest fight in their history.

“Without the help of Council our days of fielding a VFLW club would have been over,” said Ms Brady.

“We are proud to be continuing our involvement in the VFL and are delighted to partner with Darebin City Council.”

The club can now keep its identity and not be absorbed into a men’s AFL club. Without Council’s support the Falcons would have been forced to join an existing AFL club outside the municipality to continue their participation in the AFLW.

The Darebin Falcons have been the most successful team in the elite competition, having won 10 premierships in the past 12 years.

They also have a budding junior AFL program demonstrating 30 per cent growth from 2017 to 2018, while offering teams at every level from ages four to 16.

Following the initial two-year partnership of $160,000, there will be a review by both Council and the Falcons with the possibility of continuing the arrangement at a cost of $140,000 over a further two-year period.

Media Release - 16 October 2018

The report, released in early June, reviewed the structure and process of the renewal program, and called for significant action to be taken in response to critical issues. The Government was given three months – until September 5th - to respond to the findings. 

“The report is highly critical of the process, funding model and anticipated outcomes of the Public Housing Renewal Program. It revealed for the first time the total number of people waiting for public housing – more than 80,000, and called for the renewal program to respond to this need.” Cr Le Cerf said.

Two sites in Darebin are affected by the Public Housing Renewal Program. One of the sites – the former Huttonham Estate in Preston – was one of the first public housing estates in Victoria.

“Darebin has a long history of public housing provision and we want to ensure this stock is retained and increased. We have repeatedly called on the State Government to provide substantially more public housing through this program, and to ensure that public land stays in public hands.”

Another site is the Walker Street Estate in Northcote, where there is opposition to the development from local residents, both within the estate and the surrounding area. A local community group, Darebin Community Friends of Public Housing, hosted a public forum on 16 October to raise community awareness of the State’s plans.

“This vibrant community is being fragmented. More than 40 families will be displaced “by design” from the estate, despite a public pledge by the Minister for Housing that all residents would have the right to return.”

Council wants to work in partnership with the Victorian Government because public housing is vital to building strong communities. Darebin has one of the highest population growth rates in the state – the shortage of public housing will continue to grow as the municipality’s population increases. 

“We remain firm in our belief that the supply of affordable housing is a responsibility of all levels of government. We want to work in partnership with the government to significantly increase public housing at Walker Street and ensure that public land remains in public hands”

“The Government must respond to the findings of this report, and find a more transparent, effective and inclusive way to deliver substantially more public housing.” she said.

Council is committed to exploring all avenues to increase the supply of public housing and other forms of affordable housing. Council recently consulted on using some of its own land for an affordable housing development.

Mayor of Darebin, Cr Kim Le Cerf, is encouraging community members, groups and organisations to get involved in this important consultation.

“It is critical that we hear from a wide range of people as this review will inform our long-term planning of services and programs for older residents,” she said.

Darebin City Council’s independent Aged Care Services Review panel members Dr Rhonda Galbally and Peter Allen have developed a short discussion paper to help guide the conversation and get people thinking about the issues, challenges and needs of older people.

The paper outlines and acknowledges the changes resulting from the Federal Government’s aged care reforms and why Council needs to undertake this review.

It also explores the changing needs of older people and the different types of services and support potentially required today and in the future.

“Community engagement is a critical part of this review and feedback received will inform our draft report and recommendations to Council,” said Dr Galbally.

“A variety of engagement activities have been organised to ensure we capture a broad range of views and we will also be speaking with people who currently use Council’s aged care services,” added Mr Allen.

Dr Galbally and Mr Allen will be meeting with community members, groups, staff and service providers while Council staff will be out and about talking to people at a series of neighbourhood pop-in sessions and at a Seniors Month drop-in event.

In early December there will be hearing sessions where interested community members can present their submissions in person to the Panel.

“We are really interested to hear people’s ideas and perspectives about older people feeling safe and supported,” said Cr Le Cerf.

“We’d also like to hear suggestions about providing good access to things like information, services, social networks, accessible transport and buildings, as well as participation in activities, programs and events.

“I encourage everyone to read the paper, get involved and have a say,” she added.

Council will not be making any decisions in relation to the review until the Panel’s final report has been received in April 2019.

More information is available at yoursaydarebin.com.au/growingolder.

Media Release - 12 October 2018

Monthly data from the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation show that pokies venues in Darebin took more than $7.6M last month.

Darebin Mayor, Cr Kim Le Cerf said it was disturbing the new financial year had opened with an 8.5 per cent increase on losses in the Darebin local government area.

The figures show that residents lost $600,000 more to poker machines in the month of July 2018 than for the same period last year.  A huge $7,675,768 was lost in the month of July 2018 compared with $7,075,482 for the same period in the previous year. 

 “Our council is dealing with the dire consequences of pokies.   Our communities are suffering from gambling harm and it’s only getting worse. As community leaders we want reform. We call on the State Government and opposition parties to commit to $1 maximum bets, clamp down on losses disguised as wins and reduce venue opening hours,” Cr Le Cerf said.

Alliance spokesman and Director Tim Costello said the new VCGLR data shows Victoria is headed for record pokies losses in 2018.

The figures for the month of July 2018 show that Victorians lost $239.037 million over the month, an increase of 3.9 per cent or $8.911 million on the $230.126 million lost in July 2017.

This means in the first seven months of 2018, Victorian pokies losses have jumped by $81.13 million or 5.48 per cent to $1.562 billion and are on track to set both a calendar record in 2018 and, if the trend continues, a financial year record in 2018-19.

“Successive Victorian Governments have become reliant on the easy money of gambling taxes but this has got to stop,” Mr Costello said.

“With the state election just three months away we need the major parties to come up with new policies which will reduce pokies losses.

“We are saying the next Victorian Parliament must show some spine and heart and address this issue to prevent the needless suicides, family violence, bankruptcy and fraud, which flows when $2.7 billion a year is ripped from the community through addictive poker machines in suburban pubs and clubs.”

Media Release - 30 August 2018

As a result of the Australian Government making significant funding changes to the Status Resolution Support Services (SRSS) program, including the withdrawal of income support for people awaiting assessment of their claim for protection, asylum seekers are struggling emotionally and financially.

Darebin City Council Mayor, Cr Kim Le Cerf, said it was vital the Federal Government provides adequate income and case management support for people seeking asylum while they pursue suitable and sustainable employment.  Darebin is working with other councils and established the Local Government Mayoral Taskforce Supporting People Seeking Asylum (the taskforce). This taskforce has the purpose of coordinating a Victorian local government approach around an effort for advocacy, alongside local area responses to asylum seeker policies.

“We know that people studying full-time will have their support cut and this will impact people who are learning English or training in order to get a job to support their families,” Cr Le Cerf said.

“It doesn’t make practical sense, and will further undermine people’s ability to live with dignity and self-worth in our community.”   

Darebin agencies are expecting to see an increase in asylum seekers needing material aid and other forms of support in the wake of the initial round of cuts to the SRSS and these will likely increase over the next months. 

Darebin City Council joins other local councils in Melbourne in asking the Federal Government to work with local government areas to improve the services to Asylum Seekers by allowing local governments to respond to area needs.

“If the Federal Government commits to assisting community service and volunteer organisations, this will assist people seeking asylum to live safely in local communities and contribute to their communities and to Australia.” Cr Le Cerf said.

With the first cut to the SRSS program taking place on August 16 2018, Darebin City Council is calling on the Federal Government to urgently reinstate funding to the SRSS program. The Council is also part of a northern alliance of councils, which will better share and coordinate approaches to the issues facing people seeking asylum following the cuts to the SRSS program.

“These are people who have come to Australia seeking freedom and safety.  Some have been held in detention; some have previously been prevented from working as a visa condition. By working with local governments and reinstating funding, the Federal Government will help these vulnerable people and this will see them adhere to its national and international obligations in accordance with the UN Refugee Convention. We are requesting the Government reconsider its position and recommence funding to the SRSS program immediately.”

Also enclosed is a copy of the Joint Statement against changes to the Status Resolution Support Services (SRSS) for People Seeking Asylum.

Media Release - 19 September 2018

Established in 1998, Project Respect works with licensed brothels in the Greater Melbourne Region to provide information and support for women in the sex industry. Project Respect runs workshops to a broad range of social, community and welfare services, which includes sections on human trafficking indicators, support and referral pathways.

As part of its Community Grants Program Darebin City Council has awarded Project Respect $4000 to:

• Deliver capacity building workshops, which will build the knowledge and responsiveness of services to identify and respond to human trafficking, as well as build their capacity to provide tailored support and services for women in the sex industry;
• Continue to grow and develop partnerships with social, community and welfare services within the Darebin area to develop warm referral pathways from women in the sex industry; and,
• Provide outreach services to the two licensed brothels in Darebin.

Rachel Reilly, Executive Director Project Respect said: “The contribution from Darebin City Council to our organisation is appreciated and vital for our group. Funding is used for the workshops, which are developed specifically to counter the effects of human trafficking and as such are a necessary component of our work. We were fortunate enough to receive funding in the last round of community grants, and the additional funding this year, allows us to build on the work already completed.

“We have significantly strengthened our relationships with service providers in the Darebin area and have a place on the Darebin Family Violence Network. The strengthening of these relationships and engagement in the networks is crucial to continue to grow the capacity of service providers to support women trafficked and women in the sex industry,” Ms Reilly said.

Darebin Mayor Cr Kim Le Cerf said: “Project Respect serve the community by ensuring a safe space for all women, particularly those who may be in dangerous situations through human trafficking. We are pleased to support this group to see an end to trafficking and putting women in dangerous situations.

“With Project Respect supporting 15 women currently who have been trafficked for sexual exploitation, the work this group do, and the funding we supply them, is vital. We look forward to hearing of the successes of this group and others who work to stop trafficking and exploitation” Cr Le Cerf concluded.

Media Release - 11 September 2018

The project would link 10 rail stations, build five new stations and ease congestion to both inner and outer suburbs to make it easy for commuters to move across the city. This infrastructure project is vital for the Northern suburbs. The line, which is proposed to travel underground through Darebin, will potentially include stations at Bundoora and Reservoir.

Mayor Cr Kim Le Cerf said: “For a long time Melbourne has been calling out for solutions to ease the congested roads and issues with travel to and from the airport and city. The Suburban Rail Loop could mean an end to the long travel times and has the potential to take 200,000 vehicle trips off our major roads. It will connect Melbourne to Latrobe University, and make an orbital link, eliminating the need to go into the city to travel outward.”

This proposal connects all priority growth precincts and would offer better access to jobs and a variety of consumer and strategic networks enhancing productivity, liveability and accessibility across Melbourne.

But Mayor Le Cerf added that there are a number of urgent transport priorities in Darebin that need investment by the State Government now.

“While we are thrilled with the decision from the Victorian State Government to announce this plan, concentrated work still needs to be carried out in Darebin and we’re still advocating for a Bell St corridor connecting with Coburg. We look forward to working with the State Government and discussing further east-west public transport opportunities.” Cr Le Cerf said.

The City of Darebin has put forward a compelling case to maximise the benefits from the Level Crossing Removal Authority’s program by removing an additional three level crossings. Council is asking the Victorian Government to expand the Bell Street project by also removing the Oakover Road, Cramer Street and Murray Road level crossings.

Cr Le Cerf said “Our community is clear that they want these extra crossings removed. This is the most cost-effective solution that will bring the most benefits for Darebin and Victoria. Council also believes that the Reservoir level crossing removal should be a top priority for construction.”

The plan for the Suburban Rail Loop will see more people living closer to high productivity jobs outside Melbourne’s CBD. The extensions to the Regional hubs are to be applauded.

“While the plan for the Suburban Rail Link is a long term and ambitious one, it benefits the city and on behalf of the City of Darebin, I’d like to congratulate the State Government for having the foresight to put in such a great transportation network for the future of Melbourne.” Cr Le Cerf concluded.

Media Release - 28 August 2018

“It’s no secret that we are in a state of climate emergency and need urgent action” said Mayor Cr Kim Le Cerf. "Yet the State Government has $511.4 million of environmental money in its bank account, just sitting there, gathering interest. It needs to spend it on critical environmental projects now.”

The Landfill Levy is a fee paid to the State Government on all waste disposed of at landfills in Victoria by councils. Funds from the Levy must be used by the State to address greenhouse gas, climate change, waste management or environmental issues and to help fund key environmental agencies.

 “We all know there’s a War on Waste. Globally the recycling industry is in trouble and wasteful single-use plastics and micro beads continue to pollute our land and oceans. In Victoria more than one-third of the average household waste bin is made up of wasted food. All these issues need attention.

“When there are so many crucial environmental issues facing Victoria, the State needs to explain why so much Landfill Levy money remains unspent. It must commit to spending it.”

The Landfill Levy began in 1992 at only $2 per tonne, but in 2010, shot up more than 300 per cent in one year - from $9 to $30 per tonne. Since this time the Levy has increased rapidly and eight years later it sits at $64.30 per tonne.

“This is money that Council pays to the State Government for every, single tonne of waste we take to landfill. That’s ratepayer’s money the State is just sitting on and not using. Council can’t withhold the Levy, because that’s illegal, so we need to take a different approach”.

Darebin Council is now preparing to form an advocacy group with others on this issue.

”We’ll be calling on the State this year, an election year, to commit to spending the remaining Landfill Levy funds in the coming year on climate change, waste and environmental projects - transparently, honestly and urgently.

“There are a lot of important environmental projects that need to be implemented in Victoria. The State has $511.4 million to do this. All we’re asking is that it spends it”. Cr Le Cerf said.

 Media Release - 16 August 2018

To be held at Northcote Town Hall on 11 and 12 September 2018, Council has engaged the support of renowned international and Australian experts to discuss the climate emergency and to call on business and government to take urgent action.

Over two days, a series of plenary discussions will address scientific understandings, social dynamics, learnings from disaster management and corporate responsibility.

The free conference offers 18 presentations from climate and social experts, including Paul Gilding – author of the ‘The Great Disruption’, Jeremy Heimans, founder of GetUp!, and author of "New Power: How Power Works in Our Hyperconnected World and How to Make it Work for You" and Kate Fitzgerald of Emergency Management Victoria.

The event follows the adoption by council of its Climate Emergency plan, a world first for local government. The plan focuses on mobilisation and leadership; energy efficiency; renewable energy and efficiency; zero emissions transport; consumption and waste minimisation; fossil fuel divestment and adaption and resilience and engaging the community and the creation of the Darebin Energy Foundation.

Darebin Mayor Cr Kim Le Cerf said the focus on climate emergency is not only an important issue to Councillors and community members but also addresses the Council’s social responsibilities.

“We recognise we are in a state of climate emergency. We need to reverse our environmental footprint to avoid dramatic impacts on our community. We see this as a problem for all levels of government and we’re proud to be the first council in Australia to lead the climate emergency discussion,” Mayor Le Cerf said.

“It’s about starting the conversation and mobilising a plan of action to reduce our impact, at both an institutional and individual level,” Mayor Le Cerf said.

Darebin Climate Emergency Conference will be held at Northcote Town Hall on 11 – 12 September. It is free to attend, however registration is required.

Conference Emergency Conference details:
When:  Tuesday 11 and Wednesday 12 September 2018 (all day)
Where:  Northcote Town Hall, 189 High Street, Northcote
Cost:  No cost, registration required, visit Darebin Climate Emergency Conference to register.

Jeremy Heimans’ Presentation
Date:  Tuesday 11 September 2018, 6.30pm
Venue:  Northcote Town Hall, 189 High Street, Northcote
Cost:  No cost, registration required, visit Jeremy Heimans' Darebin Climate Emergency Conference to to register.

Media Release - 16 August 2018

Mayor Cr Kim Le Cerf explains “Our council plan is set for four years, and our vision is to make Darebin a ‘greener, bolder, more connected city’. The action plan puts the rubber to the road and this year sees so many highlights. We will develop a play space at Bundoora Homestead and implement recycling activities to increase recycling in the city.

“There is so much to be excited about living in Darebin. We are going to plan the future development of the Preston central precinct, which will guarantee the neighbourhood continues to thrive. We are looking to improve public safety by continuing to work on the Gender Equity map in tandem with the Victorian State Government and housing another Octopus school, giving kids a safe way to walk to school.”

There is a lot more that Darebin City Council will be carrying out, including, in consultation with the community, start of a detailed design for the Multi-Sport Stadium in Thornbury. Additionally, Council will continue to focus on the greening of services and parks with the planting of 2100 street trees and 300 park trees in the next year, including the planting of 500 indigenous plants. This means an increase of 19 per cent on the previous year.

Cr Le Cerf said “We are very happy with our Solar Savers program. We will see the first roll out of our Streets for People program, which shall create a high priority pedestrian and cycling environment along with the beautification of several key areas in the municipality, we want to make sure Darebin’s streets are safe and cycle and walk friendly. We are keen to continue to be more transparent and accessible and so the preplacement of the website will be more user-friendly, this year will be something I’m sure most web visitors will be very grateful for.”

The Council Plan - Action Plan for 2018/19 details investments from the City of Darebin into walking and cycling, alongside upgrades to major parks across the municipality.

“There are in excess of 200 separate actions in the Action Plan, so I’d like residents to keep an eye out on our website for quarterly updates. These will deliver better services across the board for our community.

“I acknowledge that this is an ambitious agenda, but we have great staff of people who are striving to deliver the action plan”.

Media Release - 15 August 2018

Dr Galbally said “I’m thrilled to be working on a report which gives older people a say in how aged care is being undertaken. Together with Peter, we are looking forward to providing vital feedback to Darebin City Council. We want to make sure Darebin remains an Age Friendly City.”

Dr Galbally has spent a lifetime working in leadership for the public health and community sectors. She has worked as Chair of the Royal Women’s Hospital, the Chair of the National People with Disability and carers Council and Chair of the Independent Advisory Council for the NDIS amongst other relevant roles.

“This open, consultative process will take into account the changes in federal funding to the aged care sector. The area of aged care is always a sensitive one, and we look forward to receiving honest feedback from all sectors in regards to these changes.” Dr Galbally concludes.

Peter Allen has more than 20 years’ experience in the Victorian Public Service with a variety of senior positions including Under Secretary of Human Services and Deputy Secretary at Community services. Additionally he has worked as Director of Social Policy and Research at the Brotherhood of St Laurence.

Mr Allen said “This review is being undertaken in response to the changing needs of older people and changes in funding by the Federal Government. I look forward to seeing the results and working alongside Dr Galbally in which will be an important paper to shape aged care services in the Darebin area for years to come.”

“Council is committed to ensuring older people in Darebin are active, valued and supported to live the way they choose and this report will be the first step.”

The review will focus on the question of how do we create an Age Friendly Darebin? The Panel will consider input already received from the community over the past 12 months, and all community feedback received through upcoming consultations on the discussion paper and draft report.

Council currently spends over $13 million each year delivering targeted aged care services like in-home care, delivered meals and help around the house. Of the $13 million almost $6 million comes from Federal Government funding and $6 million from Council resources. In addition, Council also funds and provides a range of programs, classes, events and facilities for older people.

Mayor Cr Kim Le Cerf said, “Whether you are an older Darebin resident, approaching retirement, or have ageing parents or loved ones – this review is relevant to you. We need to hear all perspectives on how we can achieve an Age Friendly City for older people today and in the future.”

“Council will not be making any decisions in relation to the review until the Panel’s final report has been received in April 2019.” Cr Le Cerf concludes.

More information about the Review is at Growing Older.

Media Release - 13 August 2018

Council’s award-winning Solar Saver program helps Darebin residents by paying for the cost of their solar system and installation costs. Households pay Council back in small increments over 10 years, while saving more than enough on their electricity bills to offset the cost of the solar system.

Social housing provider Northcote Rental Housing Cooperative are participating again, with a further six properties to have solar installed later this year. Jen Jewell-Brown is a part of the cooperative and had panels installed in a previous round of the Solar Saver program. She reports:

“I’m already saving $10 to $20 a week, and one of our members says her bill has halved!”

By the end of this year, nearly 1000 households will have benefitted from this award-winning program.

The success of Solar Saver also means that ordinary householders are helping Council achieve its ambitious target of doubling solar capacity in Darebin by 2020 – a key commitment in Darebin’s Climate Emergency Plan.

Soozah, another participant in the program, says she enjoys contributing to local renewable energy:

“I love my solar panels. I love the feeling of being part of the new direction of power generation. I am so pleased that Darebin Council is progressive enough to have pioneered this scheme.”

Mayor Cr Kim Le Cerf said “Darebin is a leader in responding to the climate emergency. Programs like Solar Saver help on so many levels – not only creating clean local energy but making our community more resilient to extreme weather and rising energy prices. We want a whole city approach to combating climate change and Solar Saver is only the first step.”

Expressions of interest for Solar Saver are now open to all households and organisations in Darebin.

To find out more and register go to www.darebin.vic.gov.au/solar or call Council on 8470 8888 or on 8470 8470 for languages other than English.

Media Release - 26 July 2018

Councillor Susan Rennie who proposed the change said, “We are encouraging the next generation to become passionate about issues that affect them, and are welcoming schools to view the democratic process first hand. Inviting students to our council meetings will assist them in finding out about how councils work. It will assist us by letting us tap into vital young minds, giving us greater understanding of what they are passionate about.”

The motion to invite the schools passed unanimously and council is looking forward to seeing school students’ visit.

“This innovative program could be very valuable across numerous learning streams,” Cr Rennie said.

Be it Law, Social Studies or English, students can learn all about democracy and how it influences their lives. We are very excited about offering this program to schools and seeing students at our meetings.

Schools in Darebin will be engaged in the selection of dates and times.

Mayor Cr Kim Le Cerf said “Darebin Council sees itself as one that encourages people to reach their potential and we’re thrilled that this motion was passed unanimously. We can’t wait to welcome students in 2019. With the changing nature of working hours, this will also allow other residents in our community an opportunity to participate in our meetings.”

Media Release - 25 July 2018

The five mayors joined with Alliance spokesman and director Tim Costello, who welcomed the unprecedented commitment of local government leaders to the vital community cause of addressing Australia’s world record levels of gambling harm.

“Successive Victorian Governments have been intimidated by a ruthless industry and become reliant on the easy money of gambling taxes but Mayor Le Cerf and the City of Darebin are saying this has got to stop,” Mr Costello said.

“Councils are at the coal face of gambling harm and are not conflicted by the tax revenue or intimidated by an industry which has exerted way too much power over our major political parties, leaving Australia with the largest per capita gambling losses in the world.” 

Mr Costello says “the next Victorian Parliament must show some spine and heart” and address this issue to prevent the needless suicides, family violence, bankruptcy and fraud, which flows when $2.7 billion a year is ripped from the community through addictive poker machines in suburban pubs and clubs.

City of Darebin recently proposed a motion to the MAV State Council calling on Vision Super to investigate divesting its shares in Woolworths; if it doesn’t dramatically change its business to no longer be the world’s biggest suburban poker machine operator, it takes $670 million a year from Victorian gamblers alone. Darebin Council also resolved to assist all local clubs and community groups divest themselves from support from poker machines.

Darebin Mayor Kim Le Cerf said, “The community harms from poker machines greatly outweigh any perceived benefits. The untenable situation is highlighted by AFL clubs now starting to eliminate these highly dangerous and addictive machines. In Darebin, poker machines strip $81 million per year mostly from our disadvantaged neighbourhoods. They are responsible for growing levels of inter-generational poverty that both major parties continue to ignore.

“As community leaders we want reform. We call on the State Government and opposition parties to commit to $1 maximum bets, clamp down on losses disguised as wins and reduce venue opening hours,” Mayor Le Cerf concludes.

The Darebin community lost $81m in 12 venues in 2016-17.

Media Release - 24 July 2018