Camden Council has won local government’s top honour, the AR Bluett award. The honour has been awarded annually for the past 80 years.
It is contested each year by councils in NSW that would like to be recognised as being the most progressive in the state.
Camden Council’s advocacy for improved services and infrastructure, particularly in response to cost-of-living pressures and inadequate public transport, was one of the factors in winning the award.
Its advocacy efforts included The Time Is Now campaign, aimed at state and federal leaders.
Camden Council was the third fastest in Greater Sydney, with an average DA determination time frame of 71 days.
It is also delivering a $1 billion capital works program through to 2027-28 that includes the Camden Civic Centre (pictured above) renewal and upgrade.
The award also recognized council’s efforts to protect the local natural environment and celebrate Camden’s unique heritage.
Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said the honour reflected the dedication of the entire Camden community.
“I am immensely proud to accept this recognition on behalf of every person who has contributed to Camden’s remarkable growth story,’’ Mayor Fedeli said.
“Our residents, volunteers, community groups, sporting clubs, local businesses, service providers, and of course the exceptional staff and elected representatives of Camden Council. You are the reason we have been recognised.
“Although this award recognises what Camden Council has achieved so far, the most exciting part is knowing the best of Camden is still to come.”
Camden Council general manager Andrew Carfield said he was proud of council’s achievement.
“As one of Australia’s fastest growing communities, Camden has navigated significant challenges, while continuing to deliver high quality services and infrastructure,” Mr Carfield said.
“The award acknowledges council’s commitment to planning, financial discipline, community centred decision making and innovative service delivery throughout this period of rapid change.
“It also recognises that Camden has embraced the challenges and opportunities of growth, while never losing sight of what matters most, our community.’’