‍At a Glance

• Campbelltown has exceeded housing targets and planned for future growth

• State led planning reform brings clarity and political accountability

• Transit oriented development must be matched with transport capacity

• Stronger advocacy is needed to secure infrastructure and equity

Gratitude and Momentum

As the year draws to a close, I am reminded that progress in a city is never the work of one individual. It is collective.

I want to acknowledge my fellow Councillors, our Directors, and Council staff for their dedication and professionalism. Together, we have strengthened community participation, invested in our cultural identity, and reinforced Campbelltown’s standing as the capital of Macarthur. I also recognise the transformational leadership of our General Manager, Lindy Deitz. Under her guidance, supported by our staff and contractors, the city’s cultural, economic, and social development has continued to mature with confidence.

Momentum matters. But momentum must be matched with clarity about the road ahead.

State Led Reform and Political Accountability

In recent months, the Minns Government has signalled a more direct role in shaping housing outcomes. I welcomed the decision to pursue state led rezoning in Parramatta and have written to the Premier offering our support for a similar approach in the Campbelltown CBD.

We have also received correspondence from the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces outlining reforms designed to facilitate the approval and incentivisation of 377,000 homes by 2029 under the National Housing Accord. Proposed amendments to planning rules would allow dual occupancies in R2 zones, terraces and townhouses near transport hubs, and mid rise apartment buildings within walking distance of centres.

I commend the Government for using a State Environmental Planning Policy as the vehicle for reform. There is merit in political clarity. When change is introduced through a state instrument, accountability rests with the elected government. Residents understand where decisions originate, and responsibility is not obscured.

“Our residents must understand that the changes taking place are a direct result of planning instruments introduced by the Minns Government, and the accountability for their success or failure lies solely with the state government.”

I have long held reservations about what is sometimes described as post political planning, where complex urban decisions are framed as technical inevitabilities rather than political choices. Planning is never apolitical. When elected governments make clear decisions, democratic accountability is strengthened.

Campbelltown’s Contribution to Housing

From 2016 to 2021, Campbelltown exceeded its housing target by 983 dwellings, delivering 7,783 homes. Our Local Government Area has capacity for at least 45,000 additional dwellings and is well placed to meet long term projections.

We have also undertaken a preliminary review of residential zones to expand R3 and R4 areas in locations with strong transport access. These early amendments are expected to yield a minimum of 4,000 additional dwellings.

There is significant medium and high density land available, including areas in West Glenfield. The state owned Hurlstone Agricultural College site near Glenfield Station remains a substantial opportunity that has yet to be fully realised.

Campbelltown has contributed meaningfully to Sydney’s growth. Yet infrastructure investment has not kept pace with that contribution.

The Limits of Transit Oriented Development Without Transit

The concept of concentrating density within 800 metres of transport hubs is well established. Transit oriented development aims to create walkable, mixed use communities anchored by high quality public transport.

In principle, this is sound. In practice, it depends on the quality and capacity of the transport system.

Peak utilisation data shows trains on the T8 Airport line operating at 148 percent capacity in the morning peak. Services from Campbelltown to Parramatta are no longer direct, requiring interchange at Glenfield. Many residents cannot reach a railway station within 30 minutes by public transport. A significant proportion of our community lives beyond a regular 30 minute weekday service.

Key connections, including the Metro link from Glenfield to Western Sydney International Airport and the north south Metro from the airport to Campbelltown Macarthur, remain uncommitted.

If density is to increase around stations, then capacity and connectivity must increase with it. Otherwise, we risk placing additional strain on systems already under pressure.

Equity and Fair Share

Premier Minns has argued that New South Wales must secure its fair share from the Commonwealth in return for ambitious housing targets. Similar arguments have been made against previous governments.

At the local level, the same principle applies. If councils are expected to facilitate growth, we must receive our fair share of infrastructure funding, transport investment, and social infrastructure support. Housing supply alone does not create liveable communities. Jobs, education, open space, and mobility are equally important.

These are not abstract concerns. They shape daily life.

Advocacy with Purpose

Over the past year, we have written 375 letters to Ministers and Members of Parliament and participated in 67 meetings seeking support. I have appeared before parliamentary inquiries to articulate the public transport needs of Western Sydney.

Advocacy is not about volume for its own sake. It is about persistence and evidence. As we move into the new year, we will continue refining our approach to ensure that Campbelltown’s voice is heard clearly and consistently.

Reflection

In reflecting on the year, I return to a simple principle. Growth must be matched with stewardship.

Campbelltown has demonstrated its willingness to accommodate housing and contribute to the state’s future. We have planned responsibly and acted constructively. What we now seek is alignment. Alignment between housing and infrastructure. Between ambition and delivery. Between political accountability and practical outcomes.

As we enter the Christmas season, I extend my sincere thanks to our staff, Councillors, and community. May the coming year bring clarity, partnership, and progress grounded in fairness.

Read the original Mayoral Minute here: 23. The Final Update for 2023