The City of Casey has released it’s 2022/23 Annual Report, showcasing our achievements, priorities and challenges from the past year as we’ve worked to deliver on the Council Plan 2021-25.
Over the past 12 months, Council has strived to deliver great outcomes for the community while navigating economic challenges impacting our community and the organisation.
Casey’s Chair of Administrators Noelene Duff PSM said throughout the year the organisation had focused on enhancing efficiency, managing growth, fostering social inclusion, job creation and improving service delivery.
“Community feedback played a pivotal role in shaping our initiatives, with over 70 community engagement campaigns and the active involvement of thousands through digital platforms and in-person opportunities,” Ms Duff said.
“A highlight was the expansion of our Shape Your City engagement program, which was initially carried out in 2020/21 to help us develop the Long-Term Community Vision 2031 and Council Plan. We checked in with the community again this year to understand what services are of priority and used the insights gained to ensure our planning and priorities continue to align with those of the community.
“I’m proud of the many highlights showcased in the Annual Report and encourage the community to check it out to find out more about how we’re working towards delivering on our long-term community Vision to ‘become a more connected, bold and resilient community’.”
City of Casey CEO Glenn Patterson said the Annual Report provided an opportunity to reflect on the progress made to deliver great outcomes for Casey, drive stronger community connections and set the organisation up for the future.
“There’s plenty to be proud of over the past 12 months in the projects, services, events and partnerships we’ve delivered for the benefit of our large and growing city whilst adapting to mitigate the impacts of the challenging economic climate,” Mr Patterson said.
“Council remains committed to finding a balance between financial sustainability whilst being responsive to the needs of our residents and ratepayers.”
Some key highlights from this year's Annual Report include:
Bunjil Place hosts Archibald Prize
Casey hosted the prestigious Archibald Prize, bringing in tens of thousands of visitors to the region and raising the profile of Bunjil Place as a national cultural institution. From 3 September to 16 October 2022, Bunjil Place Gallery showcased an extraordinary display of 52 portraits featuring figures and cultural identities from all walks of life, complimented by an immersive program of events and art experiences in the outdoor plaza space.
Domain Strategies progress
Council progressed many key projects and initiatives that align with Council’s five Domain Strategies. These pivotal strategic documents set Council’s direction across a diverse range of areas being Economic Development, Environment, Health and Wellbeing, Infrastructure and Transformation.
Technological advancements
Council undertook some key transformative projects, including an enterprise voice application and contact centre platform, migrating the financial platform to the cloud, and enabling 'Snap, Send, Solve' requests for improved customer service.
Climate action and food security
In February 2023, Council adopted a Climate Action Plan 2022-2030 to become a net-zero emissions community. Additionally, a Food Security Framework for Action has been developed to ensure residents have access to nutritious, affordable, and culturally appropriate food.
Infrastructure projects
Council delivered some significant infrastructure projects this year to help meet the growing demands for family, community and sporting facilities. Highlights included the completion of the $15 million Booring Recreation Reserve in Botanic Ridge and the $10.5 million Tulliallan Active Open Space Development in Cranbourne North.
Advocacy and funding
Council successfully secured funding for priority transport, infrastructure and community services in Casey through our advocacy efforts in the lead up to the 2022 Australian Government Election and Victorian State Election, and subsequent State and Federal Government budget submission processes. In the lead up to the State Election alone, more than $1.3 billion in local election commitments were made by both parties.
Recognitions and awards
The City of Casey received awards and recognition, including 'National Park of the Year' for Wilson Botanic Park Berwick and 'Indoor Facility of the Year' for Casey Stadium.
For more highlights or to view the full 2022/23 Annual Report visit www.casey.vic.gov.au/annual-report.