General policies

To establish a policy and approval process for the imposition of water restrictions by Cairns Regional Council Water and Waste. 

To establish a policy for the installation of water meters in areas of the Cairns Regional Council. 

To establish a policy for metering of Cairns Regional Council properties and public facilities. 

To establish a policy for the leasing of metered standpipes. 

To establish a policy to ensure Cairns Regional Council lease conditions are in accordance with Water and Waste commercial conditions. 

To provide direction to the general public on the requirements for the disposal of domestic generated asbestos at Council’s Portsmith Waste Transfer Station. This policy is not intended to provide detailed advice on all aspects of handling and transporting asbestos waste. 

To establish a policy for a uniform approach in dealing with claims for compensation for the loss of trees and other flora resulting from construction of sewers. 

To establish a policy for pre-payment of water consumption charges 

To establish a policy for irregular payment of residential water consumption charges. 

Provide for treatment (subject to conditions) of biodegradable waste into the sewerage systems such that discharges to receiving waters maintain or enhance receiving water quality. 

Establish the framework within which the above Standing Committee operates with reference to obligations specified in the Local Government Act 2009 and other guiding documents adopted by Council. This policy forms the basis of an annual self evaluation process for the activity of the Committee. 

To establish a policy for the adoption of water conservation principles and actions for Cairns Regional Council operational activities, properties and public facilities. 

To establish a policy for the implementation and maintenance of a Drinking Water Quality Management System that is consistent with the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines. 

To establish guidelines in relation to the supply and use of recycled water. 

To clarify the circumstances and conditions under which there may be private use of Council vehicles. 

To provide guidelines for conference attendance by Councillors. 

To provide guidelines for the interaction between Councillors and staff in relation to providing help and advice. (Section 1135 of the Local Government Act 1993). 

This policy clarifies expenses reimbursement and support for elected representatives of Cairns Regional Council. 

To provide Council with a debt management strategy based on sound financial management guidelines. 

To establish a policy framework to support an independent tribunal of appointed parties who will make recommendations to Council regarding the most appropriate assistance to be offered to residential ratepayers and Not for Profit Community and Sporting Groups who are unable to meet their rates and charges commitments due to serious financial hardship beyond their control. 

To establish a policy for the provision of rates based financial assistance to not for profit recreation, sporting and community groups. 

To set out the principles used by Council in 2012/13 for the making and levying of rates and charges; the recovery of rates and charges; concessions for rates and charges 

To ensure Councillors and Officers of Cairns Regional Council understand the requirements for management of release of all confidential reports and information to the public. 

To establish a policy to minimise person induced risks to public order, community safety and security in Council’s Administration Buildings. 

The intent of this policy is to utilise staff and computer time in a more efficient manner. 

The intent of this policy is to establish clear and precise practice regarding the levying of a premium due to a deferral of liability to pay rates and charges. 

To outline Cairns Regional Council’s investment policy and guidelines regarding the investment of cash holdings with an objective of maximising earnings whilst minimising risk to ensure the security of Council funds. 

To outline Council's Work Health & Safety Policy. 

To establish a policy about the appointment of an Internal Auditor and the relationship to the organisation and the Audit Committee. 

To establish a policy for the creation and operation of an Audit Committee and the establishment of an Audit Committee Charter. 

To outline Cairns Regional Council’s bank guarantee policy and guidelines regarding the guaranteeing of third party loan borrowings based upon sound financial management guidelines. 

Establish procedures for compliance with the obligations on the Council for the effective administration of public monies. 

To establish a formal and consistent procedure for acquiring and or resuming land by Council for road or other purposes. 

The Cairns Regional Council will provide concessional travel upon the Daintree River Ferry to all persons who fulfil the eligibility criteria detailed in this document subject to the terms and conditions for such concesional travel being abided. 

The intent of this policy is to ensure that Council and the community are aware of and abide by the local government principles and expectations for good governance by Councillors 

This Policy provides a framework for undertaking any procurement activities. Council's procurement process complies with Section 143 of the Local Government (Finance, Plans and Reporting) Regulation 2010. 

This policy establishes Council’s formal position and policy framework with regards to International Relationships. 

The Revenue Statement for a financial year must include information as outlined in the policy. 

To provide guidelines on the return of dividend to Council from commercialised business units for the year ended 24 June 2011. 

To establish a policy for the recovery of outstanding Rates and Charges and Accounts Receivable. 

This Policy provides ethical guidance for Councillors and staff when dealing with parties involved in or associated with a development application. 

To determine the services provided by Council at a subsidised cost in order to meet social, equity or environmental goals associated with the business activity’s delivery of services. 

To establish an accounting policy for reserves for Cairns Regional Council. 

To establish an accounting policy on Interest earned on Constrained Works Reserve for Cairns Regional Council. 

To establish an accounting policy for employee provisions for Cairns Regional Council. 

To provide guidance on the requirements for full cost pricing under Chapter 8, Part 5 of the Local Government Act 1993 and Parts 9 and 10 of the Local Government Finance Standards 2005. 

To comply with the requirements of LGTER, GST Act 1999, FBT Act 1986 and all other relevant taxation obligations with the Australian Taxation Office and Office of State Revenue. 

To recover labour and plant costs for internal and external works through work orders and projects. 

To set guidelines for implementing consistent risk management processes throughout Cairns Regional Council. 

To support the interests of council and business objectives by safeguarding information assets and assuring the continued delivery of services. 

Establish the framework within which Councillors operate with reference to obligations specified in the Local Government Act 1993. This policy forms the basis of induction of new Councillors and senior management. It also forms the basis of an annual self evaluation process. 

Establish the framework within which the above Standing Committee operates with reference to obligations specified in the Local Government Act 2009 and other guiding documents adopted by Council. This policy forms the basis of an annual self evaluation process for the activity of the Committee. 

Establish the framework within which the above Standing Committee operates with reference to obligations specified in the Local Government Act 2009 and other guiding documents adopted by Council. This policy forms the basis of an annual self evaluation process for the activity of the Committee. 

To provide clarity as to what is considered reasonable entertainment, why it is important to the role of Council and the administrative processes that support this. 

To ensure effective management of Council’s Intellectual Property and to support its use for the benefits of the Cairns community. 

To establish a policy for the management of tenures to Not-For-Profit community groups over Council owned or controlled land. 

To ensure that Council: (i) complies with the Leasing in the Queensland Public Sector Policy Guidelines; (ii) complies with Australian Accounting Standards; (iii) achieves value for money; (vi) negotiates an appropriate risk return position prior to entering into a leasing arrangement. 

To provide guidance as to how competitive neutrality complaints will be handled by Council. 

An integral part of Council’s Workplace Health & Safety Commitment Policy. 

To provide the necessary guidelines for use of the Mayoral Discretionary Fund 

To set standards for Cairns Regional Council regarding Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Workforce Diversity. A major element of the implementation process of this Policy is developed through Council’s corporate plan to the EEO management plan. 

To promote the development of expertise and knowledge within Cairns Regional Council through staff exchange and secondment opportunities. 

The Local Government Act 1993 (s 501d) requires Council to establish a process (a general complaints process) for resolving complaints by affected persons about a) administrative action of the local government; or b) an alleged minor breach of the local government’s code of conduct by a councillor. 

Policy number 10253 Public Interest Disclosure 

To provide guidelines outlining the control on expenditure on advertisements placed by Council in various media to ensure that this advertising is in the public interest. 

To: demonstrate Cairns Regional Council’s (CRC) commitment to rigorously manage fraud risk; provide guidance on how CRC will manage the prevention of fraud; establish procedures for appropriate reporting and investigation of fraud; assist compliance with statutory obligations; eliminate or minimise internally and externally instigated fraud against CRC; and, assist in the detection of all instances of fraud and corruption against Council. 

The purpose of this General Policy is to establish a framework for the responsible collection and handling of personal information by Cairns Regional Council. 

To provide direction with regards to the payment of interest on funds held by Council in Trust. 

To provide written rules for the orderly conduct of Council Meetings 

To guide the conduct of Councillors and Council Officers during the lead up to local government elections based on the democratic principle that outgoing elected bodies should not use public resources for election campaigning, nor make decisions which may be unreasonable, inappropriate or unnecessarily bind an incoming Council. 

To provide a forum for events leaders to come together and provide advice to Council on significant events and event opportunities. 

To establish general principles for the strategic acquisition of land. 

To establish general principles for the disposal of Council freehold land that is surplus to Council’s requirements. 

•The intent of this policy is to establish clear and precise practice regarding the contribution and application of funds for the Daintree Ferry operations. 

A policy for the acknowledgment of Sponsorship of Council Activities and Assets by Businesses, Organisations, Communities and Individuals. 

Facilitation of road shoulder sealing, kerb & channel and footpath works for existing, developed areas. 

To establish a formal and consistent procedure for dealing with the encroachment of fences and the use of a park or reserve, in relation to provisions contained within Local Law No. 26 and Local Law Policy No. 5. 

To manage the installation of kerbside house numbering by private organisations. 

To set a threshold monetary value for the capitalisation (recording) of Non-Current Assets for Cairns Regional Council. 

The intent of this policy is to provide clear objectives and guidelines for the issuing of approvals to carry out Roadside Vending Activities on roads under Local Law No.22. 

To set guidelines for the installation, placement and removal of memorials on Local Government Land controlled by Cairns Regional Council. 

Establish the framework within which the above Standing Committee operates with reference to obligations specified in the Local Government Act 2009 and other guiding documents adopted by Council. This policy forms the basis of an annual self evaluation process for the activity of the Committee. 

This policy outlines the application of Australian Accounting Standards Board (AASB) Standard 116 Property Plant and Equipment with respect to the revaluation of Non-Current Assets. 

To ensure there is a consistent approach to bridge naming throughout the Cairns Regional Council area in relation to provisions contained within Local Law 22. 

The intent of this policy is to set guidelines for the imposition of reasonable or relevant conditions on planning and development applications submitted to Council. 

To embed sustainability into the operational function of the organisation. 

To provide guidance to Council in making decisions regarding certain Requests for Extension to Relevant Periods for approvals, to ensure that: a. Development proceeds in an appropriate manner, and subject to current planning and infrastructure policies and requirements; and b. Council’s Infrastructure Projects are not detrimentally affected by lower charges being collected where Extensions to Relevant Period are granted. 

Policy in relation to the placement of tributes on graves at Council’s Cemeteries. 

The Cairns Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) System has been introduced to enhance safety for members of the public in monitored areas. 

To promote design features within new developments and the redevelopment of existing areas, which will enhance the safety from crime for the community, including visitors to the city. 

To incorporate sustainable building design principles in all Council buildings, including new buildings and renovation projects. 

Public Information about Council’s fees & charges with respect to Reservation and Interment Fees. 

To provide the necessary guidelines for use of the Mayoral Discretionary Fund 

To establish a policy which provides clear direction regarding vegetation planting, removal and maintenance on Council controlled land. 

The intent of this policy is to provide reduced infrastructure charges as an incentive for development that will have a positive economic impact within the Cairns Regional Council area. 

This policy describes Council’s overall position regarding the operation of licensed venues in the local government area. 

The intent of this Policy is to ensure: 1. The safety of the general public. 2. That building materials and debris are contained within the building site and the general public excluded from the building site. 

To provide clear objectives and guidelines for the issuing of Certificate of Registrations for dogs owned by aged pensioners/other pension card holders who would otherwise be eligible for the aged pension, and guide, hearing and assistance dogs. 

To set guidelines to ensure consistency in dealing with requests for erection of structures within road reserves. 

Establish the framework within which the above Standing Committee operates with reference to obligations specified in the Local Government Act 2009 and other guiding documents adopted by Council. This policy forms the basis of an annual self evaluation process for the activity of the Committee. 

To advise Council’s approach to the management of requests for the installation of commemorative plaques, memorials and monuments in public spaces in the Cairns Regional Council, avoiding duplication of the memorial facilities and services provided by cemeteries in the region. 

To provide guiding principles for Council on the engagement and consideration of young people in Cairns Regional Council policies, procedures and activities. 

It is Cairns Regional Council’s policy to achieve a high standard of environmental care in conducting our business and to be proactive in the caring for our natural environment. Council is committed to continuous improvement in performance by taking account of evolving practice, scientific knowledge, and community expectations. 

To provide a guide and a framework, for Council in the development, planning, maintenance, de-accessioning, acquisition and integration of public art in the Cairns local government area. 

The intent of this policy is to provide clear objectives and guidelines for the issuing of Business or Residential Parking Permits in accordance with Cairns Regional Council Regulated Parking Local Law 2003. 

A policy for directional signs within the City of Cairns. 

To set direction on Council’s Policy for the reduction of Carbon Emissions. 

The intent of this policy is to establish clear and precise practice regarding the contribution and application of funds for the Mount Peter Master Planning project. 

To facilitate an improvement in urban design and the quality of the built environment within the Cairns Region through the provision of information, expert advice and recommendations to the Cairns Regional Council. 

The purpose of the policy is to assist community, sporting and not for profit organisations that expand the services they offer or construct new facilities, through the provision of relief on a percentage of infrastructure charges associated with their development. 

The intent of this policy is to broadly define Council’s approach to the engagement of our community. It has application across the full range of policy, program and service issues encountered by local government. 

This policy defines Council’s role in regional economic development and promotion. 

The intent of this policy is to clarify the criteria for the use of the Civic Reception Rooms and Civic Reception Foyer at the Council Chambers, Spence Street. 

This policy is intended to guide and inform all Council staff when developing advertising, promotional materials and publications, websites, stationery, generally whenever the public encounters a reference to the Cairns Regional Council. It will ensure consistency of Council’s corporate image and visual branding. 

To set guidelines for implementing consistent asset management processes throughout Cairns Regional Council 

This policy outlines a formal process to ensure all media releases, statements and enquiries regarding Cairns Regional Council issues are managed professionally and appropriately. 

To focus on targeted investment support to stimulate significant economic benefits. 

To establish a policy for the creation and operation of Advisory Committees for Council. 

Establishes the framework for operation of the Economic Development Standing Committee, with reference to obligations specified in the Local Government Act 2009 and other guiding documents adopted by Council. This Committee has been established to allow Councillors to focus on the review of matters from an economic development perspective. 

The intent of this policy is to provide clear objectives and guidelines for the: Management and use of the Civic Theatre, and Delegation of authority for the programming of events and setting the prices for Civic Theatre commercial activities. 

Applies to commercial filming and photography operations on any Council-controlled roads, land, parks or reserves. Includes Terms & Conditions. 

To allow commercial filming and photography to be carried out on any roads, land, parks or reserves under the control of Council regardless of promotional purpose. 

•To provide a safe and secure facility for all those who visit the Esplanade parklands and lagoon; b) To provide effective and efficient management of activities on the Cairns Esplanade; c) To optimise public use and enjoyment of this precinct; d) To regulate the use of areas along the Esplanade, ensuring the areas are well maintained; e) To manage the impact of activities on local businesses and residents along the Esplanade; and f) To establish a Fees & Charges Structure to enable Council to recover operating costs associated with activities. 

The purpose of this policy is to reduce graffiti on public and private property within the Cairns Regional Council Area by assisting in both its removal and prevention through applying recognised best practice crime prevention approaches. This policy provides the framework through which Graffiti Management Strategic initiatives are selected and prioritised. 

The intent of this policy is to allow any member of the public to speak in a public forum at a designated position in City Place. 

To promote the delivery of an effective, co-ordinated and reliable security service to enhance the safety of people in Cairns and to protect community assets. 

To encourage activities that contribute vibrancy and life to public areas and to allow opportunities for public performances. To provide an equitable system of use for popular busking sites among the buskers earning a living through their art form. To minimise complaints, criticism and other problems associated with buskers operating in the city area. 

This policy is intended to guide the operation of Council’s Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) Systems. 

Cairns Libraries’ Collection Development Policy aims to present the goals and guidelines for the development of Cairns Libraries’ collection to the general public, Councillors and Council staff. 

The intent of this policy is to ensure that use of Public Internet computers at Cairns Libraries is consistent with the Library’s policies and all national and State laws. 

This policy is designed to facilitate the promotion of festivals, events, public awareness campaigns and community activities through the use of banners whilst adding positive visual amenity to areas where they are installed. 

To control and regulate the conduct of markets on Council owned or controlled land. 

For all residents and visitors to the region to have equitable access to Council facilities, services, programs and activities. 

Cairns Regional Council will have an inclusive, integrated, collaborative and culturally sensitive approach to the development and delivery of Council related services, programs and initiatives that engage, involve, impacts on and represents residents and visitors from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. 

This policy describes Council’s overall management role with regard to the provision, maintenance, use and charges for community centres and halls. 

That Council will have an inclusive, collaborative and sensitive approach to working with local Traditional Owner groups who are the custodians of the Local Government area. 

To provide guiding principles and a framework for Council to plan, conduct and evaluate appropriate Youth Arts initiatives throughout the local Government area, in consultation with young people and identified stakeholders. 

To clearly articulate Council's commitment to establishing and maintaining Sister Cities relationships and to describe the role and function of the Sister Cities Advisory Committee in managing relationships. 

The Council Grant Program provides financial and in kind assistance to community based groups, individuals and organisations that are providing programs, activities, events and projects that enrich the diversity of cultural, social, sport and economic development opportunities available to the residents of the Cairns Region. 

To outline Council’s vision for a vibrant, progressive and collaborative arts and cultural community and industry in the Cairns region, contributing to the growth and sustainability of our broader community. 

To provide Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people of the Cairns local government area with input into Council decision making processes. 

To provide a forum for older people from the Cairns region for advocacy and the provision of advice to Council. 

The Multicultural Advisory Committee aims to provide a discussion and advisory forum for people from a multicultural and/or culturally and linguistically diverse background (CALD) from across the Cairns region. 

The Public Art Advisory Committee will provide recommendations to Council and oversee the production management, selection of artists, artistic works and financial requirements as they pertain to public art projects associated with Council’s capital works program over the value of $250,000 and private developments over the value of $1 million. 

The Access and Equity Advisory Committee aims to provide people with any or multiple disabilities in the Cairns local government area to have input into Council decision making processes. 

The Cairns YEA! (Youth Engagement Action) Crew aims to provide a voice to a diverse range of young people who are reflective of the community they represent. The Cairns YEA! will enable Council to consult with young people on matters relating to youth service provision and youth issues. 

The function of the Community Safety Advisory Committee is to ensure key stakeholders and decision-makers convene regularly to initiate strategic directions and planned approaches to systemic, endemic and emerging crime and safety related issues within the local government area and/or region. 

The Regional Arts Development Fund Committee consists of a group of artists and arts workers who are appointed to advise Council on the suitability of diverse culture and geography of the Cairns Regional Council area, and each member has responsibility for a particular arts portfolio. 

Council is aware of its specific responsibilities to reduce fire hazard as well as to report and attempt to control unauthorised fires on lands it controls as required by Fire Services Act of 1990. 

To provide Council and the community with a framework for the establishment and management of community gardens on Council owned or controlled land to foster access to healthy eating and food choices. 

To outline Council’s position in relation to the provision of user pay caravan parks and campgrounds in the local government area. This policy states the broad principles for the on-going operation and management of Council owned or controlled caravan parks and campgrounds. 

To establish a policy for the naming of Parks & Reserves throughout Cairns Regional Council area in relation to provisions contained within Local Law No 26 and Local Law Policy No 5. 

This Policy is intended to describe the external works necessary within the East Woree Development Precinct and to allow the costs of these works to be apportioned equally. 

This policy is intended to support the local dimensions of the Planning Scheme by providing a mechanism for the collection of developer contributions for public art across the City of Cairns. 

This Policy is intended to establish a tree and plant species palette, together with guidelines for appropriate planting methods and complement the Cairns CBD Streetscape Masterplan planning scheme policy. 

Part A Introduction to Policy No 40304 City in a Garden Masterplan. 

Part B Tree Species Selection to Policy No 40304 City in a Garden Masterplan. 

Part C Precinct Plans for Policy No 40304 City in a Garden Masterplan. 

Part E Introduction to Policy No 40304 City in a Garden Masterplan. 

Part F Streetscape Templates for Policy No 40304 City in a Garden Masterplan. 

This Policy is intended to support the local dimension of each Planning Scheme. The Policy has been developed to provide a uniform and equitable levy for the contributions by extractive industry and other developments within the Cairns City local government area. 

The Policy sets out the contributions payable under Section 5.6 of the Local Government (Planning and Environment) Act 1990 in respect of the relevant area. 

This Policy is intended to support the local dimension of the Planning Scheme by ensuring that development takes account of the presence of acid sulfate soils. 

This Policy is intended to support the local dimension of the Planning Scheme by ensuring that places of cultural heritage significance are nominated to the local heritage register on a continuous basis. 

This Policy is intended to support the local dimension of the Planning Scheme by identifying the information which the Council may request a proponent to provide to demonstrate that a proposal for development meets the performance criteria and will be ecologically sustainable.