Welcome to our article on advancing environmentally sustainable design (ESD) in Hume City Council. As a council committed to sustainable building practices, green architecture, and eco-friendly development, Hume City Council is taking significant steps to integrate ESD principles into its urban planning and development projects. By incorporating energy-efficient design, renewable energy integration, waste management solutions, water conservation techniques, and sustainable transportation options, Hume City Council aims to create a sustainable and vibrant city for its residents and future generations.
Key Takeaways:
- Hume City Council is dedicated to advancing environmentally sustainable design (ESD) practices.
- The council incorporates sustainable building practices, green architecture, and eco-friendly development in its urban planning.
- ESD principles include energy-efficient design, renewable energy integration, waste management solutions, water conservation techniques, and sustainable transportation options.
- Hume City Council aims to create a sustainable and vibrant city for its residents and future generations.
Key Objectives of the Social Impact Assessment Planning Policy and Guidelines
The Social Impact Assessment Planning Policy and Guidelines (SIAPPG) have been implemented by Hume City Council to ensure that social consequences are considered in land use planning and development proposals. The objectives of the policy and guidelines are to assess and address the potential positive and negative social impacts of development proposals, foster socially connected communities, and integrate social issues with land use planning.
The SIAPPG provides a framework for assessing social impacts and guides applicants, the community, and the council in understanding the information required for social impact assessment. It describes the two levels of assessment process, outlines the types of development that require assessments, and provides guidance on how to prepare and assess social impacts. The policy emphasizes the importance of achieving improved outcomes, avoiding adverse impacts, and considering social, cultural, physical, environmental, and economic factors in the assessment process.
By implementing the SIAPPG, Hume City Council aims to ensure that development proposals contribute to the overall well-being of the community and minimize any potential negative impacts. The policy provides a consistent and transparent approach to assessing social impacts, integrating social considerations into decision-making processes, and creating sustainable and livable neighborhoods. It promotes a balanced approach that takes into account both the environmental and social aspects of development, ultimately leading to more sustainable and resilient communities.
Table: Key Objectives of the Social Impact Assessment Planning Policy and Guidelines
| Objectives | Description |
|---|---|
| Assess social impacts | Evaluate the potential positive and negative social consequences of development proposals. |
| Foster socially connected communities | Promote community well-being and social cohesion through development projects. |
| Integrate social issues with land use planning | Consider social factors in decision-making processes related to land use planning. |
| Achieve improved outcomes | Strive for positive social outcomes and minimize adverse impacts. |
| Consider diverse factors | Take into account social, cultural, physical, environmental, and economic aspects. |
Hume City Profile and Demographics
Hume City is a vibrant and diverse local government area located in the northern growth corridor of Melbourne, Australia. With a population of over 250,000 people, the city is experiencing rapid growth and is projected to reach 394,700 residents by 2041. This population growth is driven by its attractiveness as a residential area and its proximity to Melbourne’s CBD.
What sets Hume City apart is its cultural diversity. The community is made up of people from diverse backgrounds, with a significant proportion of residents born overseas. This rich cultural tapestry contributes to a vibrant and inclusive community, where different traditions, languages, and customs are celebrated.
Hume City also boasts economic diversity, with a mix of industries ranging from manufacturing and logistics to retail and hospitality. This diverse economic landscape provides opportunities for employment and business growth, making Hume City an attractive destination for entrepreneurs and investors.
| Key Demographic Information | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Population | 250,000 (2021) |
| Projected Population (2041) | 394,700 |
| Cultural Diversity | Large proportion of residents born overseas |
| Industries | Manufacturing, logistics, retail, hospitality, and more |
Hume City Council recognizes the importance of embracing and nurturing the city’s diversity. By valuing cultural inclusivity, the council strives to create an environment where all residents feel welcome, respected, and represented. Through its various initiatives and programs, Hume City Council continues to promote social cohesion and actively engage with the diverse communities within its boundaries.
Commitment to Health and Wellbeing in Hume City Council
In Hume City Council, we prioritize the health and wellbeing of our community. Our commitment to creating a city that supports the physical, mental, and social wellbeing of its residents and visitors is reflected in our comprehensive Health and Wellbeing Plan 2021-2025.
Our plan takes a holistic approach, considering the diverse needs of our community. We understand that health and wellbeing are influenced by various factors, including access to healthcare, social connections, and a clean environment. By addressing these factors, we aim to create a city where everyone can thrive.
Our Health and Wellbeing Plan goes beyond immediate recovery efforts and looks to the future. We understand that the impacts of the pandemic extend far beyond the immediate crisis. Our plan includes strategies to support our community throughout the recovery process and beyond, ensuring sustained wellbeing for all.
Table: Key Initiatives in the Hume Health and Wellbeing Plan 2021-2025
| Initiative | Description |
|---|---|
| Improving Access to Healthcare | Collaborating with healthcare providers to enhance access to medical services and promoting preventive healthcare practices. |
| Promoting Mental Health and Wellbeing | Increasing awareness about mental health, providing counseling services, and promoting community support networks. |
| Creating Active and Safe Spaces | Developing parks, recreational facilities, and walking/cycling paths to encourage physical activity and enhance community safety. |
| Supporting Social Connections | Facilitating community events, programs, and initiatives that foster social connections and reduce social isolation. |
| Promoting Environmental Sustainability | Implementing initiatives to improve air quality, reduce waste, and promote sustainable transport options. |
| Addressing Social Inequalities | Tackling social determinants of health by addressing inequities and promoting equal access to opportunities. |
With our Health and Wellbeing Plan, we aim to create a city where everyone has the opportunity to lead a healthy and fulfilling life. By addressing the diverse needs of our community and taking a proactive approach to health and wellbeing, we are committed to building a brighter and more resilient future for all in Hume City.
Social Impact Assessment Process in Hume City Council
In Hume City Council, we prioritize the assessment of social impacts associated with development proposals through a comprehensive Social Impact Assessment (SIA) process. This process allows us to evaluate the potential positive and negative effects of proposed developments on the social fabric of our community. By conducting thorough assessments, we can ensure that our decisions are well-informed and considerate of the diverse needs and interests of our residents.
The SIA process in Hume City Council involves several key steps. It begins with the identification of the proposed development and its potential social impacts. We then gather relevant information and engage with stakeholders, including community members, to understand their perspectives and concerns. Through this collaborative approach, we aim to foster transparency and inclusivity in decision-making.
Following stakeholder engagement, we conduct an evaluation of the social impacts using appropriate methodologies and tools. This evaluation considers various factors such as community well-being, access to services and amenities, cultural heritage, and social cohesion. The findings are then presented in a comprehensive report that informs the decision-making process.
Evaluating Social Impact
The evaluation of social impact involves a rigorous assessment of both positive and negative effects. We consider the potential benefits and opportunities brought about by the proposed development, as well as any potential adverse consequences. By evaluating these impacts, we can make informed decisions that prioritize the well-being and interests of our community.
In summary, the Social Impact Assessment process in Hume City Council is an essential component of our commitment to sustainable and responsible development. It allows us to carefully consider the social consequences of proposed developments and ensure that our decisions align with the needs and aspirations of our diverse community.
| Benefits of Social Impact Assessment | Considerations in Social Impact Evaluation |
|---|---|
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Promoting Sustainable Procurement Practices in Hume City Council
Hume City Council is dedicated to promoting sustainable procurement practices as part of its commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible governance. Our Procurement Policy serves as a blueprint for ensuring that procurement processes prioritize sustainability, while also delivering value for money and maintaining strong supply relationships. By incorporating sustainable criteria into our procurement processes, we aim to minimize our environmental impact and contribute to the overall wellbeing of our municipality.
Our Procurement Policy emphasizes the importance of sustainability throughout the procurement lifecycle. We consider not only the initial costs but also the whole-of-life costs and transaction costs associated with the goods, services, or works. This holistic approach enables us to make informed decisions that align with our commitment to sustainable development.
“Sustainability is at the heart of our procurement practices. By prioritizing sustainable products and services, we are not only minimizing our ecological footprint but also supporting local communities and fostering economic equity.”
Key Principles of Our Procurement Policy:
- Value for Money: We aim to achieve value for money by considering the sustainable, whole-of-life costs and benefits of procurement activities.
- Sustainable Procurement: We prioritize the use of environmentally friendly products and services that have minimal environmental impact.
- Building Supply Relationships: We believe in building and maintaining strong supply relationships that are based on trust, ethical conduct, and transparency.
- Probity and Ethics: We are committed to upholding high standards of probity and ethics in all our procurement processes, ensuring fairness and impartiality.
Promoting Local and Indigenous Business Participation in Procurement
In line with our commitment to economic equity and supporting the local community, Hume City Council actively promotes the participation of local businesses in our procurement processes. We recognize the importance of nurturing local enterprises and creating opportunities for them to thrive. By engaging local businesses, we not only contribute to the economic growth of our community but also foster a sense of pride and ownership among our residents.
Furthermore, we understand the significance of Indigenous businesses and the unique contributions they bring to our region. We actively seek to include Indigenous businesses in our procurement opportunities, ensuring their representation within our supply chain. By doing so, we aim to honor and respect the cultural heritage and knowledge of our Indigenous communities while also promoting economic diversity and inclusion.
Our commitment to supply chain diversity goes beyond mere compliance – it is a core value that drives our actions. We believe that a diverse supplier base enhances innovation, fosters competition, and ultimately benefits our community. By engaging a wide range of suppliers, we not only ensure access to a variety of goods and services but also create opportunities for businesses of all backgrounds to thrive.
In summary, our focus on promoting local and Indigenous business participation in procurement reflects our commitment to economic equity, community development, and cultural diversity. By actively engaging local businesses, supporting Indigenous enterprises, and diversifying our supply chain, we aim to build a thriving and inclusive economy that benefits all of Hume City.
Procurement Thresholds and Delegation of Authority in Hume City Council
In Hume City Council, we have established clear procurement thresholds and a delegation of authority framework to ensure effective governance and internal controls in our procurement processes. These thresholds and delegation of authority guidelines define the levels at which different procurement methods and approval processes apply, ensuring transparency and accountability in our procurement activities.
By setting procurement thresholds, we establish financial limits that trigger specific procurement procedures and provide a clear framework for decision-making. This helps us maintain compliance with legal and regulatory requirements while ensuring that appropriate procurement methods are applied based on the complexity and value of the procurement. These thresholds enable us to streamline the procurement process, maximize efficiency, and ensure that the procurement activities are aligned with our strategic objectives.
| Procurement Threshold | Delegated Authority |
|---|---|
| Below AUD 10,000 | Procurement Officer |
| AUD 10,000 – AUD 100,000 | Manager, Procurement |
| Above AUD 100,000 | Executive Director, Finance and Procurement |
At Hume City Council, we prioritize governance and internal controls to ensure that our procurement activities adhere to ethical standards and promote transparency. The delegation of authority framework assigns specific individuals or positions within our organization the responsibility for making procurement decisions within their delegated financial limits. This system allows for proper oversight, compliance, and accountability throughout the procurement process.
Governance and Compliance
Our procurement thresholds and delegation of authority are governed by our Chief Financial Officer, who reviews the procurement policy and guidelines regularly to ensure their relevance and effectiveness. We strive to maintain the highest standards of governance and compliance by aligning our procurement policy with legislative requirements and other council plans, strategies, and policies related to financial management. This holistic approach ensures that our procurement activities are conducted in a transparent and accountable manner, fostering trust and confidence in our processes.
In conclusion, Hume City Council’s procurement thresholds and delegation of authority framework form a crucial part of our governance and internal controls in procurement. These guidelines enable us to maintain transparency, accountability, and compliance in our procurement activities, ensuring that the allocated resources are utilized effectively and efficiently. By adhering to these thresholds and governance practices, we can successfully meet our strategic objectives while promoting good governance and responsible financial management.
Achieving Value for Money and Demonstrating Sustained Value in Procurement
In our procurement processes at Hume City Council, we prioritize achieving value for money. We understand that value extends beyond the initial costs and encompasses whole-of-life costs and transaction costs. By considering these factors, we can make informed decisions that deliver sustained value to our organization and the community we serve.
When evaluating procurement options, we take into account not only the upfront expenses but also the long-term costs associated with acquiring, using, and maintaining goods, services, or works. This comprehensive approach allows us to assess the true value and benefits that a procurement activity can provide over its lifecycle.
To measure performance and demonstrate the sustained value of our procurement activities, we employ a robust performance measurement framework. This framework enables us to track the effectiveness and efficiency of our procurement processes, ensuring that we continually optimize our practices to achieve the best outcomes for our stakeholders.
“Value for money means looking beyond the immediate costs and evaluating the long-term benefits and costs associated with procurement activities.”
By prioritizing value for money and demonstrating sustained value, we can make informed decisions that contribute to the overall success and sustainability of Hume City Council. Our commitment to performance measurement and evaluation ensures that we continuously improve our procurement practices and deliver the best outcomes for our community.
Example of Value for Money Calculation:
| Procurement Activity | Initial Cost | Whole-of-Life Costs | Transaction Costs | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upgrading Street Lighting | $100,000 | $50,000 | $5,000 | $155,000 |
| Renewable Energy Project | $500,000 | $100,000 | $10,000 | $610,000 |
| Waste Management System | $250,000 | $75,000 | $7,500 | $332,500 |
In this example, the initial costs alone do not provide a comprehensive understanding of the true value of each procurement activity. By considering the whole-of-life costs and transaction costs, we gain a more accurate assessment of the total cost and the long-term benefits each activity can deliver. This analysis allows us to make informed decisions and prioritize procurement activities that provide the best value for money and sustained value over time.
Contract Management and Supplier Relationship in Hume City Council
In Hume City Council, effective contract management and building strong supplier relationships are essential for ensuring successful outcomes in procurement. We prioritize the proper monitoring of performance, risk management, and dispute resolution to ensure that all parties fulfill their contractual obligations. By maintaining positive and collaborative relationships with suppliers, we foster long-term partnerships that contribute to the overall success of our procurement activities.
Performance Monitoring
We understand the importance of closely monitoring supplier performance to ensure that goods, services, or works are delivered as agreed upon. Our council has established robust processes for tracking and evaluating supplier performance, including regular reporting and assessment against pre-defined key performance indicators. Through diligent performance monitoring, we can identify any issues or areas for improvement and initiate corrective actions as necessary.
Risk Management
Risk management plays a crucial role in our contract management practices. We proactively identify and assess potential risks associated with procurement activities and implement appropriate risk mitigation strategies. Our council’s risk management framework encompasses risk identification, analysis, evaluation, and treatment. By effectively managing risks, we minimize the likelihood of disruptions or negative impacts on projects, ensuring the smooth execution of contracts.
Supplier Relationship
Building and maintaining strong supplier relationships are vital to our procurement processes. We believe in open communication, transparency, and fair dealing with our suppliers. Our council actively engages with suppliers to establish mutual understanding, foster trust, and promote collaboration. We recognize the value of long-term partnerships and work towards creating an environment that encourages suppliers to deliver quality goods, services, or works consistently.
| Benefits of Effective Contract Management and Supplier Relationship |
|---|
| Improved project outcomes and quality |
| Enhanced delivery schedules and cost control |
| Minimized disputes and resolution time |
| Optimized risk management and mitigation |
| Increased supplier performance and accountability |
| Strengthened supplier relationships and collaboration |
By prioritizing effective contract management and supplier relationship, Hume City Council ensures the successful execution of procurement activities, ultimately driving value for money and meeting the needs of our community.
Sustainable Procurement Practices in Hume City Council
In our commitment to sustainability, Hume City Council prioritizes sustainable procurement practices that consider the environmental, social, and economic impact of our procurement activities. We understand the importance of incorporating sustainable criteria and principles into our procurement processes to minimize our ecological footprint and contribute to the overall wellbeing of our municipality.
We actively promote the use of environmentally friendly products and services, ensuring that our procurement decisions align with our goals of reducing environmental impact. By procuring goods and services that are energy-efficient, waste-reducing, and environmentally responsible, we strive to create a greener and more sustainable future for our community.
Furthermore, our sustainable procurement practices also address social and economic impacts. We recognize the importance of supporting local communities and businesses, as well as promoting economic equity. Through our procurement processes, we aim to provide opportunities for local businesses to participate and contribute to the economic growth and development of Hume City. We also acknowledge the significance of Indigenous businesses and actively support their inclusion in procurement opportunities, fostering diversity within our supply chain.
Key Benefits of Sustainable Procurement Practices
- Reduces environmental impact: By prioritizing sustainable procurement, we can minimize the negative environmental consequences associated with our procurement activities, such as resource depletion and pollution.
- Supports local communities: Our sustainable procurement practices contribute to the economic growth and development of Hume City by giving preference to local businesses and suppliers.
- Promotes economic equity: By actively seeking opportunities to include Indigenous businesses in our procurement processes, we strive to foster economic equity and create a more inclusive and diverse supply chain.
- Drives innovation: Sustainable procurement encourages the development and adoption of innovative and eco-friendly products and services, driving positive change in the marketplace.
- Enhances reputation: By demonstrating our commitment to sustainability, we enhance our reputation as a responsible and forward-thinking organization, attracting socially and environmentally conscious partners and stakeholders.
In summary, sustainable procurement practices are an integral part of Hume City Council’s commitment to creating a sustainable and vibrant city. By considering the environmental, social, and economic impact of our procurement activities, we aim to make a positive difference in our community and contribute to a more sustainable future for all.
Key Linkages and Governance of the Procurement Policy in Hume City Council
In Hume City Council, the procurement policy is governed by the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to ensure effective and transparent governance of procurement processes. The policy is regularly reviewed, at least once during each four-year term, to align with legislative requirements and other council plans, strategies, and policies related to financial management and governance.
The procurement policy in Hume City Council plays a crucial role in guiding the council’s procurement activities and ensuring consistency in decision-making. It provides a framework for conducting procurement processes ethically and with probity. By adhering to the policy, the council aims to maintain high standards of governance, internal controls, and accountability.
The procurement policy in Hume City Council also establishes clear linkages with other relevant policies and guidelines. It is closely aligned with the council’s overarching strategic objectives, financial management framework, and sustainable development goals. The policy takes into consideration the council’s commitment to achieving value for money, promoting sustainable procurement practices, and supporting the local and Indigenous business community.
Ensuring legislative compliance is a key aspect of the procurement policy in Hume City Council. The policy aligns with relevant procurement legislation and regulations, ensuring that all procurement activities are conducted in accordance with legal requirements. This commitment to legislative compliance establishes a solid foundation for transparency, fairness, and accountability in the council’s procurement processes.
Overview of the Procurement Policy Governance and Linkages
| Policy Governance | Policy Linkages |
|---|---|
| The procurement policy is governed by the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to ensure effective and transparent governance of procurement processes. | The procurement policy is closely aligned with the council’s overarching strategic objectives, financial management framework, and sustainable development goals. |
| The policy is reviewed at least once during each four-year term to align with legislative requirements and other council plans, strategies, and policies related to financial management and governance. | The policy takes into consideration the council’s commitment to achieving value for money, promoting sustainable procurement practices, and supporting the local and Indigenous business community. |
In summary, the procurement policy in Hume City Council is governed by the Chief Financial Officer and is aligned with legislative requirements and other council plans, strategies, and policies related to financial management and governance. The policy establishes clear linkages with other relevant policies, ensuring consistency and alignment with the council’s strategic objectives. Additionally, the policy emphasizes the importance of legislative compliance to maintain transparency and accountability in procurement processes.
Conclusion
Hume City Council is committed to driving sustainable development and promoting environmentally sustainable design (ESD) practices. With our Social Impact Assessment Planning Policy and Guidelines, we take a holistic approach to assess and address the social and environmental impacts of development proposals. By integrating social, cultural, physical, environmental, and economic factors, we strive to create a sustainable and vibrant city that supports the health and wellbeing of our residents and visitors.
Our dedication to ESD extends beyond development planning to our procurement processes. Our Procurement Policy ensures responsible and transparent governance, emphasizing value for money and sustainable procurement practices. We actively promote participation from local and Indigenous businesses, contributing to economic equity and supply chain diversity within our community.
At Hume City Council, we recognize the importance of achieving sustained value in procurement. We consider not only the initial costs but also the whole-of-life costs and transaction costs associated with goods, services, or works. Through effective contract management and supplier relationship, we aim to deliver successful outcomes and maintain positive partnerships.
We are proud to be leading the way in sustainable development and procurement practices. By prioritizing environmentally sustainable design and integrating it into our policies and processes, we are actively contributing to the wellbeing of Hume City and its future generations.
FAQ
What is the Social Impact Assessment Planning Policy and Guidelines (SIAPPG) in Hume City Council?
The SIAPPG is a policy and guideline framework that aims to foster socially connected and supported communities while integrating social issues with land use planning. It also includes principles of environmentally sustainable design and development (ESD) to promote the strong links between environmental performance and social impacts on occupants.
What is the purpose of the Social Impact Assessment Planning Policy and Guidelines (SIAPPG)?
The SIAPPG aims to assist applicants, the community, and the council in identifying and addressing the potential positive and negative social impacts of development proposals. It provides guidance for assessing development proposals, determining any social impact, and accommodating such impacts.
What is Hume City known for?
Hume City is a dynamic and growing local government area in the northern growth corridor of Melbourne. It is known for its diverse community, with a large proportion of residents born overseas and speaking languages other than English at home. The city has a mix of industrial and population-serving sectors, contributing to its economic diversity.
What is the Hume Health and Wellbeing Plan?
The Hume Health and Wellbeing Plan is a comprehensive plan that guides the development and delivery of services, programs, and projects focused on improving health outcomes in the community. It takes a holistic approach, considering physical, mental, social, and spiritual dimensions of health, and aims to support communities throughout the recovery process and beyond.
What is the Procurement Policy in Hume City Council?
The Procurement Policy ensures responsible and transparent governance in procurement processes. It emphasizes value for money, sustainable procurement, and building and maintaining supply relationships. The policy includes provisions for ethics and probity, effective legislative and policy compliance, risk management, and dispute resolution.
How does Hume City Council promote local and Indigenous business participation in procurement?
Hume City Council acknowledges the importance of supporting local businesses and promoting economic equity. It encourages participation from local businesses in procurement processes and seeks to build supply chain diversity. The council also recognizes the significance of Indigenous businesses and supports their inclusion in procurement opportunities.
How does Hume City Council ensure effective governance in procurement processes?
Hume City Council has established procurement thresholds and delegation of authority to ensure effective governance and internal controls. The thresholds define the levels at which different procurement methods and approval processes apply, and specific individuals or positions within the organization have delegated authority for making procurement decisions within their financial limits.
What factors does Hume City Council consider in achieving value for money in procurement?
Hume City Council considers not only the initial costs but also the whole-of-life costs and transaction costs associated with acquiring, using, and maintaining goods, services, or works. The council also recognizes the need to measure and demonstrate the sustained value of procurement activities through performance measurement and evaluation.
How does Hume City Council manage contracts and supplier relationships?
Hume City Council emphasizes effective contract management and managing supplier relationships to ensure that all parties meet their contractual obligations and deliver the desired outcomes. The council has established processes for performance monitoring, risk management, and dispute resolution in contract management.
What is the commitment of Hume City Council to sustainable procurement practices?
Hume City Council is committed to sustainable procurement practices that consider the environmental, social, and economic impact of procurement activities. It incorporates sustainable criteria and principles into procurement processes and promotes the use of environmentally friendly products and services to minimize its ecological footprint, support local communities, and contribute to the overall wellbeing of the municipality.
Who governs the procurement policy in Hume City Council?
The procurement policy in Hume City Council is governed by the Chief Financial Officer and is reviewed at least once during each four-year term. The policy is aligned with legislative requirements and other council plans, strategies, and policies related to financial management and governance.
How does Hume City Council advance environmentally sustainable design practices?
Hume City Council is at the forefront of advancing environmentally sustainable design (ESD) practices in its development plans and procurement processes. The council’s Social Impact Assessment Planning Policy and Guidelines promote a holistic approach to assessing and addressing the social and environmental impacts of development proposals, in alignment with its Health and Wellbeing Plan.
Source Links
- https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/files/sharedassets/public/your-council/policies-and-report/council-policies/pol199-social-impact-assessment-planning-policy-and-guidelines.pdf
- https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/files/sharedassets/public/your-council/policies-and-report/council-policies/hume-health-wellbeing-plan-2021-2025.pdf
- https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/files/sharedassets/public/your-council/policies-and-report/council-policies/procurement-policy.pdf