From the Mayor - 26 August 2026

Update: find out more about the outcome of the Extraordinary Council Meeting on 26 August

The progress of the Mosman Masterplan dominates my message this month. A heartfelt and sincere thank you to the thousands of residents who have contributed to and engaged with the most significant and consequential strategic planning project ever undertaken in the 133 years of Mosman Council. At the time of this column going to print, the project’s extensive and wide-ranging suite of documents were due to be considered at the Extraordinary Council Meeting on Wednesday 26 August.

The Masterplan demonstrates to the State Government that Mosman will accommodate housing growth equivalent to the ‘one size fits all’ LMR housing reforms whilst potentially doing everything we can to preserve and protect the character of Mosman we all value and cherish. Community benefits are a major strength of the plan which comprehensively addresses the need for future housing growth to be supported by additional open spaces and extra infrastructure including pedestrian activation and community facilities. Subject to Council’s endorsement, the next step is to seek a Gateway determination from the State Government. If granted, this confirms the planning proposal has sufficient merit to proceed to formal public exhibition, providing another opportunity for community review and to have your say.

It will come as no surprise that the plan identifies local traffic congestion and inadequate and ageing transport infrastructure as a significant and ongoing challenge. Addressing our transport requirements is Council’s biggest advocacy priority because the transport and traffic solutions to address these pressures sit outside councils’ control. Significant investment by the State Government is needed to alleviate local and regional transport bottlenecks.

Planning for future generations also means ensuring our community facilities continue to meet changing needs. Our much-loved Mosman Square Seniors Centre will host a special event on Saturday 5 September, from 9am to 2pm, to officially unveil its new name. While it will continue to be a valued hub for older residents, it will also broaden its programming to welcome a wider range of community members and encourage even greater connection and inclusion.

You’ll also want to save the date for our annual Sustainability Fair at Balmoral on Sunday 20 September, from 10am to 2pm. With plenty of family-friendly activities, it’s a wonderful opportunity to have some fun while learning more about protecting the beautiful environment that makes Mosman such a special place. Find out more at events.mosman.nsw.gov.au/sustainability.