Bass Coast, VIC
Shire in Victoria
Australia
Bass Coast, VIC improves work-life balance for employees with innovative parental leave policies
Bass Coast became the first Australian council to eliminate the distinction between primary and secondary carers. This change means parents can access up to 16 weeks of paid leave regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation. Council policy supports flexible work schedules for parents following leave with an emphasis on plan approvals. Local officials also approved superannuation account contributions by employers for unpaid leaves of up to one year.
Bass Coast, VIC
Australia
Bass Coast, VIC manages public parking resources with smart parking system in Cowes and Wonthaggi
Bass Coast pursued a smart parking program to decrease traffic congestion and improve visitor experiences. The council selected APARC to install 730 parking bay sensors at three lots. Drivers in Cowes view digital signs outside of lots for real-time availability based on sensor data. A dedicated smart parking app guides visitors to vacant bays in the Wonthaggi parking lot. Local officials will use system data for parking enforcement, lot maintenance, and additional smart features.
Bass Coast, VIC
Australia
Bass Coast, VIC empowers local action on climate change with Community Action Portal
The Community Action Portal (CAP) was created following the approval of Bass Coast's Climate Change Action Plan 2020-2030. A quick survey on the CAP's main page asks users about their knowledge of climate change. The Community Emissions Model visualizes emission types and paths toward a zero-emission future. Dedicated sections for Community Actions and Council Actions show the changes needed by stakeholders for a greener shire.
Bass Coast, VIC
Australia
Bass Coast, VIC seeks reduction in wildlife-related vehicle accidents with virtual fence pilot
An eight-month survey found 210 animals were killed by cars across 3.5 kilometers of local roads. This research led to a fully functional virtual fence on Phillip Island. Each fence sensor activates LED lights and an alarm when headlights are detected up to 300 meters away. These features discourage wildlife from approaching roads. Bass Coast is evaluating wildlife protection and road safety benefits during the one-year pilot.
Bass Coast, VIC
Australia
Bass Coast, VIC reduces costs and emissions by adding rooftop solar to Wonthaggi Civic Centre
The rooftop solar system uses 277 panels to reach a capacity of 100 kilowatts. Wonthaggi Civic Centre requires more energy for daily use than any other council-owned building. Council officials anticipate a 30% reduction in annual energy costs by adding solar power. Bass Coast has also invested in solar panels for Wonthaggi Depot and Inverloch Community Hub to move toward net-zero emissions by 2030.
Bass Coast, VIC
Australia