9 December 2024
North Sydney Council has voted 6-2 to endorse Mayor Zoe Baker’s proposal to seek voluntary rate contributions from local private schools and educational institutions while addressing their increasing reliance on public parks for operational activities. The decision comes as the Council grapples with growing demands on public spaces and financial pressures.
The motion noted that the North Sydney Local Government Area hosts 21 schools and two universities within its 10.5 square kilometre boundary, making it one of Australia’s densest education precincts. Simultaneously, it has the least public open space per capita on the North Shore, Baker added.
Key concerns highlighted include the use of public parks like St Leonards Park and Ted Mack Civic Park as de facto playgrounds by private schools such as Marist Catholic College. During construction on its campus, Marist has been scheduling recess and lunchtime activities in these parks without formal agreements, leading to complaints from residents and reports of clashes with other park users. Similar concerns have been raised regarding other institutions, including St Aloysius College and Loreto Kirribilli.
Mayor Baker said “We need to balance the competing demands on public space while ensuring fairness in how these spaces are accessed and maintained.”
The motion also referenced the imminent opening of Reddam House North Shore, a new private school expected to cater to 1,500 students. Located in McLaren Street, the school lacks adequate playground facilities, potentially increasing reliance on public parks for student recreation.
The Council plans to invite private schools and the Australian Catholic University to voluntarily contribute financially or in-kind to support public asset maintenance. Notably, private educational institutions own over 152,000 square metres of land in the LGA, which, if rated as commercial properties, could generate over $1 million in annual revenue. A “Roll of Honour” recognising contributors will be published on the Council’s website and social media. Baker said it was her intention to honour contributors but not to name and shame.
Additionally, Council resolved to develop a policy governing the operational use of public parks by private schools. The policy, to be implemented before the 2025 school year, will address liability risks, maintenance costs, and equitable use of public spaces.
The Mayor noted successful past initiatives, such as the Reserve Bank of Australia’s voluntary payment of rates for its Kirribilli premises, as precedents. “This is about fostering a sense of shared responsibility and ensuring that our public spaces are available for all residents, workers, and visitors,” she said.