Georges River, NSW
Area in New South Wales
Australia
Georges River, NSW grades large-scale developments with its Environmental Sustainability Calculator
Applicants use the calculator when seeking approval for high-density developments with floor areas of 1,500 square meters or more. The tool asks for inputs about sustainable features like EV charging capacity, native plant use, and light-reflective or solar roofing. A points-based system determines if an application adheres to the council's Local Environmental Plan standards. Council officials worked with industry representatives on refining the tool prior to its introduction.
Georges River, NSW
Australia
Georges River, NSW builds a stronger community during COVID-19 with volunteer timebanking program
Local residents create accounts through the Timebanking website and offer their time to neighbors. Time spent walking dogs, tending gardens, and teaching skills lead to points redeemable for services through the platform. The timebanking program helps those who struggled or were laid off during COVID-19 stay connected to community members. Georges River also encourages exchanges of basic services without cash through timebanking.
Georges River, NSW
Australia
Georges River, NSW develops inventory of species and ecological hotspots with Biodiversity Study
The council is working with Total Earth Care to evaluate in-house data on flora and fauna species in the area. Residents who have observed rare, endangered, and non-native species can share their experiences through an online survey. Georges River seeks localized information about biodiversity by asking participants to add color-coded pins to an online map. The Biodiversity Study helps council officials protect wildlife and maintain waterways.
Georges River, NSW
Australia
Georges River, NSW generates new ideas for health and safety initiatives with Dragons' Den program
Participating staffers used the Creative Collective platform to submit proposals over a two-month period. Innovative health, safety, and wellbeing projects that fit within the council's strategy and budget advanced to a live-streamed event. Finalists presented their proposals to a panel including the council's general manager and department heads. The event - inspired by the popular TV show "Dragons' Den" - resulted in four programs receiving $25,000 AUD of public funding.
Georges River, NSW
Australia
Georges River, NSW replaces phone and email surveys on council services with HappyOrNot kiosks
The Smiley Touch kiosks were added to cultural venues, two customer service offices, and six early learning centers. Patrons select from frowning, neutral, and smiling faces when rating their service experiences. Data gathered from Smiley Touch kiosks are tied to specific experiences for more precise follow-ups than standard surveys. Georges River added these interactive kiosks to improve response rates, especially from non-English speakers.
Georges River, NSW
Australia
Georges River, NSW converts parking lot into pop-up park as part of placemaking strategy
A car park in Hurstville turned into a community space called The Green for a weekend pilot. This pop-up park featured free Wi-Fi, book swaps, and outdoor seating. Council officials added a playground and games to attract families. The Green created an open space in an area with low vehicle ownership, few parks, and concerns about social isolation. Participants were encouraged to fill out surveys to inform future pop-ups as part of the Hurstville Place Strategy.
Georges River, NSW
Australia
Georges River, NSW gathers data and keeps residents connected with smart chillout hubs
Chillout hubs in Hurstville, Kogarah, and Mortadale feature Wi-Fi access, device chargers, and smart waste bins. Hub exteriors are lined with solar panels to power devices and sensors. The council and the University of New South Wales collect usage data from hub components. Council officials correct issues ranging from leaking water fountains to poorly timed waste collections based on hub data.
Georges River, NSW
Australia