The Domain Strategies are part of Council’s Integrated Strategic Planning Framework and outline the direction, priorities and objectives for their respective domains.

They are the:

• Economic Development Strategy 2021‑25
• Infrastructure Strategy 2021-25
• Environment Strategy 2021-25
• Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2021-25, and
• Transformation Strategy 2022-26

Each strategy outlines objectives and targets, while providing high-level strategic direction for the City of Casey.

The Kindergarten Service review was undertaken in response to the Victorian Government’s Best Start, Best Life forms, which aim to increase kindergarten hours for 3 and 4 year olds.  

The review outcomes, presented at a Council meeting in April 2024, highlighted that an additional 5,800 kindergarten places will be required by 2036, more than doubling the current capacity.

Considering these findings, Council announced plans to implement a new service and infrastructure model that aligns with population growth while maintaining essential services.

Council remains committed to providing high-quality kindergarten services, managing Central Registration and Enrolment, and advocating for support from the Victorian Government and other sectors to facilitate these reforms.

The phased implementation of the new model is expected to take between five to six years, with a focus on ensuring all families in Casey can access quality and free kindergarten services in their local area.

Last year, Council announced plans to streamline the management and operation of seven of its leisure facilities, including Casey ARC, Casey RACE, Doveton Pool in the Park, Casey Stadium, Endeavour Hills Leisure Centre, Olive Road Sporting Complex, and The Shed Skatepark. These facilities were managed by three partners across four contracts, leading to operational inefficiencies. 

Following this review, the Council appointed Aligned Leisure to take over the management of these major leisure facilities, to enhance the operational efficiency and customer experience across Casey’s leisure venues. This appointment came will come into effect on 1 July 2024.

Aligned Leisure deliver innovative, inclusive, high-quality programs within the facilities and out in the community which aims to significantly enhance member experience and have a positive impact on the community.
 

In response to the Commonwealth Aged and Disability reforms, in June 2022 Council undertook a comprehensive Aged and Disability services review, leading to the recommendation to exit service provision for several services. Council exited assessment service delivery and transitioned it to Mecwacare on 1 September 2023.

Over the last 12 months, Council has undertaken a range of initiatives to ensure a successful transition back to elected officials for the community and our organisation.  

To support community members who consider standing for election, Council delivered several ‘Role of Council’ Candidate Information Sessions. These sessions gave community leaders and residents the chance to learn more about the diverse range of functions and services local government provides, the role of Councillors and the resources required for potential candidates in the 2024 Local Government Elections.  

On 17 November 2023, the Victorian Government announced its intention to introduce legislative reforms in 2024 to support improved governance and integrity across the local government sector ahead of the 2024 Council general elections.

In response to these reforms, Council provided a submission to the Local Government Reforms Paper 2024. The consultation paper provided an overview of three key reform areas, which were:

• Reforms to strengthen Council leadership, capability and councillor conduct 
• Reforms to improve early intervention and effective dispute resolution
• Reforms to strengthen oversight mechanisms

Casey Fields Soccer Stage 2 - City Football Academy, Cranbourne East

This project included a grass football pitch, upgrade of the existing pavilion, which increased the size and scale, and a new pavilion with high performance facilities including, sports science/medical rooms and gymnasium. It also included a reception and office space, as well as a function room and storage area.

A-League and W-League clubs based at Casey Fields provide positive role models for the community, professional pathways for young people and the availability of community outreach programs. It also provides Casey residents the unique opportunity of attending elite sports games close to home.

The total cost of this project was $23.5 million and was jointly funded by Council and the Melbourne City Football Club, with a contribution of $5.11 million.

Casey Fields Cricket Ovals 4 & 5 Pavilion Upgrade, Cranbourne East

This project included upgrades and renewal works so the pavilion met the standard required to host elite level cricket and strengthen Casey’s opportunity to be selected as one of the premier Cricket Hub precincts within Australia.

The total cost of this project was $4.5 million and was jointly funded by Council and the Victorian Government; with a grant of $1.3 million received through the Metro Cricket Grants Program.

Casey Fields Fitness Trail Stage 2, Cranbourne East

This comprehensive trail system provides more recreational opportunities for all ages and abilities within the Casey region and beyond, addressing an identified community need for additional fitness infrastructure and amenities in this growth area.

Delivering a total of 4 km of trail infrastructure, Stage 2 of the project added the remaining 1.3 km of path, as well as two fitness nodes and supporting amenities such as benches, water stations, lighting, and signage, and was completed in June 2024.

The total cost of this project was $1.2 million and was funded by Council and Sport and Recreation Victoria, Local Sports Infrastructure Fund with a contribution of $250,000.

Clyde Recreation Reserve (Elliston Estate), Clyde

The new reserve includes a district level AFL/cricket, netball and tennis facility, which meets the outcomes of the Clyde Creek Precinct Structure Plan and addresses a gap in sports to meet identified demand.  

Completed in September 2023, the project aims to enhance social networks, improve health and wellbeing outcomes in the community and address gender equity in sporting participation.

The total cost of this project was $20 million and was funded by Council, developer contributions and the Victorian Government; with a grant of $3 million received through the Community Sport Infrastructure Program, $5.8 million funded by developer contributions, and the remaining funded by Council.

Max Pawsey Reserve Storm Water Harvesting, Narre Warren

The stormwater harvesting system reduces the impact of nutrients and pollutant discharge through the landscape to Port Phillip Bay and is the first stage (1A) of the Narre Warren Alternative Water project.

The total cost of this project was $6.17 million and was funded by Council and the State Government with a grant of $1.7 million received through the Integrated Water Stimulus Package, and a contribution from Melbourne Water of $550,000 and South East Water of $200,000.

Casey ARC Asset Management Plan Renewal Works, Narre Warren

Completed in June 2024, works included conversion of staff change room to a public use/swim class changeroom and UV (Ultraviolet) system upgrade at Casey ARC. The Pool filtration system includes a UV system that purifies the water and destroys pathogens, bacteria and algae. 

The total cost of this project was $525,000 and was funded by Council.

Strategic Objective 1 –  Deliver sustainable infrastructure and activate places

The City of Casey aims to manage urban growth and deliver future-focussed infrastructure that is innovative and sustainable. We will continue to advocate for and build an accessible, well-connected local transport network. As Casey strives to drive stronger connections, we will endeavour to foster partnerships which ensure we remain a destination for arts, culture, sport and leisure. We will design, build and cultivate places which create a sense of belonging, connection and pride and this includes maintaining safe and clean open spaces and places.

In 2023/24 Council:

• Successfully secured funding via the Victoria Government’s Growth Areas Infrastructure Contribution (GAIC) fund to support the delivery of important local infrastructure and transport projects.
• Hosted the Melbourne Storm Casey Round at AAMI Park, which attracted a crowd of 20,000 people.
• Finalise the detailed design for a new Cranbourne Community Hub, and the construction of major infrastructure projects.
• Delivered a range of gender equality initiatives that aim to reject violence against women in Casey communities.
• Launched the Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2024-2026.
• Advocated to the Victorian and Australian Governments for funding to help deliver the Doveton Pool in the Park Masterplan.
• Continued to work with the Victorian Planning Authority to finalise and implement precinct structure plans to create vibrant new communities in Clyde and Cranbourne.
• Completed 23 playground renewals and upgrades across the municipality.

Strategic Objective 2 – Grow Casey’s current and emerging economies

Support the creation of new jobs, by focusing on developing local businesses, attracting investments, revitalising activity centres and facilitating employment pathways. Build and leverage partnerships that enhance service provision, infrastructure delivery and funding opportunities.

In 2023/24 Council:

• Reviewed and amended Council’s regulatory process for local businesses to make it easier to do business in Casey and increase economic activity.
• Delivered a targeted investment and attraction campaign aimed at priority industry sectors to bring in new business and create jobs.
• Progressed the revitalisation of Council owned land in the Bunjil Place Precinct and Narre Warren Village to create opportunities for new civic, community and commercial outcomes.
• Worked with Melbourne City Football Club to introduce the first year of the Club’s Community Initiatives program, which will offer the community a chance to participate in local programs and events, while enhancing the partnership.

Strategic Objective 3 – Foster environmentally sustainable practices and work towards being climate ready

The City of Casey will contribute towards a circular economy through waste management and resource recovery. As we conserve, enhance and restore our natural environment, our intention is to become a climate ready city

In 2023/24 Council:

• Implemented initiatives that will increase biodiversity and tree canopy cover to work towards achieving climate resilience.
• Progressed the procurement of an Advanced Waste Processing solution to replace landfill as the preferred method of residual waste disposal and secure the long-term waste needs of South East Melbourne.
• Rolled out of the first stages of the Victorian Government’s Waste Kerbside Reform Program to ensure consistency across Victoria and enable the increased recovery of recyclable materials.
• Developed the draft Climate Resilient Casey Plan which was open for public consultation until mid-July 2024.
• Undertook community consultation for the draft City of Casey Coastal Framework.
• Implemented emission reduction initiatives with a focus on sourcing green energy, improving building efficiencies and expanding roof top solar on council facilities.

Strategic Objective 4 – Advocate to State and Federal Governments for key service and infrastructure delivery

The City of Casey will build on its current advocacy program by delivering a targeted advocacy campaign in the lead up to the Federal and State Government elections to ensure the municipality is supported in projects that improve transport and infrastructure.

In 2023/24 Council:

•  Identified and progressed City of Casey and Greater South East Melbourne region industry development and investment opportunities to support economic growth.
• Delivered campaigns for priority advocacy projects, including Thompsons Road extension and Casey Fields Soccer Stage 3.

Strategic Objective 5 – Create a resilient, active and connected local community

Addressing key health and wellbeing needs by connecting people to community and services is vital for the City of Casey. Integrating data and research will ensure our services, facilities and council decision making reflect the needs and priorities of our municipality.

In 2023/24 Council:

• Strengthened age friendly planning, positively influencing Council’s services and programs for older people through the delivery of the Living and Ageing Well Action Plan.
• Progressed on its Affordable Housing Strategy, which included hosting the Municipal Association of Victoria’s Inter-Council Affordable Housing Forum to share learnings and solutions.
• Worked in partnership with the community to support the activation of a new Family and Community Centre in Clyde North to increase opportunities for families to access key services and feel a sense of belonging at a local level.
• Endorsed the Rainbow Action Plan 2024-2028 in June 2024.

Strategic Objective 6 – Ensure good governance and transparent decision making

The City of Casey will grow the capacity of community leadership through dedicated leadership programs and pathways. This will also include identifying opportunities to improve council decision making through governance practices and community engagement. Overall, this will develop platforms for community empowerment.

In 2023/24 Council:

• Delivered year three of the Community Leadership Program to increase leadership skills in the community, build capacity, and enhance reputation and trust in civic democracy in Casey.
• Prepared the organisation and community for the return to elected Councillors in October 2024, enhancing good governance and ethical decision making.
• Responded to recommendations provided through the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC) Operation Sandon investigation to address their report findings.
• Responded and advocated to the Local Government Electoral Representation Review to ensure the electoral structure reflects the diversity of Casey’s communities and is compliant with the legislative requirements.
• Delivered candidate information sessions for 2024 Election candidates to ensure there is clear understanding of councillor roles and responsibilities.

Strategic Objective 7 – Create an adaptable, innovative and financially sustainable organisation that delivers maximum community benefit

As a future-ready organisation, we will identify and implement a sustainable operating model. Council will enhance its services with a focus on innovation and partnerships. Through service reviews and considering stakeholder impacts we will ensure positive outcomes are delivered to
the community. By building Council’s ability to pursue innovative partnerships we will ensure greater community outcomes.

In 2023/24 Council:

• Made significant progress in developing and endorsing Strategic Service Plans (SSPs) to support long-term planning for community services. These plans provide a holistic understanding of service delivery, asset and infrastructure requirements, enabling the council to better meet the evolving needs of the community.
• Implemented a range of automated and digital solutions to make it easier and faster for customers to make requests online.
• Implemented new prioritisation and performance measurement for the organisation that focuses on community outcomes and ensures Casey is adaptable and sustainable into the future.
• Implemented the first stage of technology upgrades across Council’s systems to support the future readiness of community service delivery.
• Made significant progress in advancing its smart city initiatives over the past year. A major focus has been the deployment of sensor networks, with successful installations completed at Casey Fields and the Ray Bastin Reserve.
• Developed and endorsed the new Community Service Organisations (CSO) Growth and Attraction Framework 2024-27, which sets out a comprehensive plan to build the capacity of the sector and coordinate advocacy efforts to attract additional funding and specialised services to the Casey region.