Sutherland Shire Council has been shortlisted for 10 NSW Local Government Excellence Awards, recognising its continued leadership in delivering high‑quality infrastructure, community programs, partnerships and services across the Local Government Area (LGA).
Sutherland Shire Mayor, Jack Boyd said the breadth of the shortlisted projects reflected a Council deeply focused on outcomes for its community.
“To be recognised across nine innovative projects, and the outstanding work of one of our stellar emerging leaders at Council speaks volumes about the professionalism, care and commitment of our staff and community partners,” Mayor Boyd said.
“From major infrastructure like Kirrawee Library+ to grassroots initiatives that improve safety, inclusion, environmental outcomes and everyday customer experiences, these projects demonstrate how Council is responding to growth, change and community expectations in practical and meaningful ways.”
“What I find especially encouraging is that many of these initiatives are about listening to our community and delivering solutions that have a lasting impact.”
“We’re proud to see Sutherland Shire Council recognised alongside outstanding councils from across NSW, and we congratulate everyone involved in bringing these projects to life.”
Sutherland Shire’s shortlisted categories and projects include:
Asset and Infrastructure – Projects over $1.5 million
Kirrawee Library+ – A contemporary, hybrid neighbourhood library (pictured) embedded within a retail precinct, delivering flexible learning spaces, creative technology, and strong digital inclusion in one of the Shire’s fastest‑growing suburbs.
Community Development
Navigating the New Aged Care Act – A targeted education program supporting older residents, carers and providers to understand and navigate Australia’s once‑in‑a‑generation aged care reforms, with measurable improvements in knowledge and confidence.
Community Partnerships
Culturally Inclusive Water Safety and Aquatic Initiatives – Developed in response to disproportionate drowning and rescue rates among culturally and linguistically diverse communities, this initiative was a multi-agency effort that delivers practical water safety education with trusted community organisations and in culturally safe settings.
Customer Experience
Back to the Brilliant Basics – Uplifting CX – A whole‑of‑organisation cultural and operational shift that dramatically improved customer response times, reduced overdue requests and reinforced a ‘Customer at Heart’ mindset across Council.
Emerging Leader
Individual finalist – Lia Fourtsadakis has been recognised as an Emerging Leader for her work supporting the integrity and smooth operation of Council. Working in governance and strategic projects, Lia has contributed to major initiatives including the 2024 Local Government Elections, Councillor induction and planning to ensure Council services continue during emergencies.
Environmental Leadership
I Love a Clean Sutherland Shire – A place‑based litter reduction program delivering visible behaviour change in coastal and park environments, achieving up to 66 per cent litter reduction at targeted sites through community‑led action.
Festivals and Community Events
Jannali Moonrise Festival – A vibrant town centre activation celebrating culture, inclusion and community connection, helping change perceptions of Jannali and supporting local businesses and the evening economy.
Innovative Leadership
Innovative Leadership Communications to Inform, Engage and Educate – A structured internal communications program strengthening leadership visibility, staff alignment and engagement following organisational change.
Special Project Initiative
Principal Sustainability Summit – A Council‑led initiative bringing together school principals and educators to empower curriculum‑aligned climate action and collaboration across all 84 Sutherland Shire schools.
Special Project Initiative
Spring Clean Blitz – A coordinated town centre uplift across nine regional centres, delivering immediate public space improvements while capturing critical data to support proactive future maintenance.
The winners of the NSW Local Government Excellence Awards will be announced at an awards ceremony on 4 June.
