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Central Ward Description of LivingKingston2035 Research Purpose This report describes the findings of Living Kingston 2035 LIKE IMPROVE and WISH ideas derived from Central Ward residents who participated in community forums and surveys. As the provision of geographical data was not mandatory on the website, this information is limited and as such this report does not contain the website data. In addition, this report outlines key ideas specific to the Central Ward that were submitted by residents in other wards through Theme-Based Community Forums and surveying. Data Source Ten Theme-based Community Forums were held in May and June 2012, with each forum focused on a particular theme, including Arts, Culture and Heritage; Built Environment; Community and Support Services; Connected and Learning Communities; Council Operations; Free Moving and Accessible City,; Living Environment; Recreational Spaces; Safe and Clean City; and Vibrant Local Economy. Participants from all wards participated in this series of forums. This summary report includes comments from the theme-based forums related to the Central Ward. A further six area-based community forums, two within each ward, were held in late November 2012. A total of 96 community members from across Kingston attended this series of forums and provided feedback on broad statements on ten themes. The forums were facilitated by external consultants and were staged during various times during the week and on weekends. 19 community members attended the Cheltenham community forum, with the majority of participants aged over 50. A total of 14 community members attended the Mordialloc forum with the majority of participants over the age of 40. Between January and December 2012, community members were invited to participate in a short survey online, via Survey Monkey, or in paper format. Surveying was undertaken at a number of events and meeting places throughout the community, including at school pick up times, shopping centres, farmers markets and community events. Of 481 Central Ward respondents who participated in paper and online surveys, 77.96% identified themselves as a resident, 12.47% identified themselves as a volunteer or paid worker, 6.03% were Council employees and 3.53% were business operators. There was a high representation from all suburbs in the Central Ward, with Cheltenham having the highest response rate with 166 participants, and Mordialloc the lowest, with 82. Apart from a lower response rate for the 20 - 29 age group, Central Ward participation generally followed a bell curve. 3.53% of respondents spoke English as a second language.


Outline of Research

Theme

Overview of survey responses Of the survey respondents in the Central Ward, 407 people ‘liked’ aspects of the existing ‘Recreational Spaces’ on offer at the City of Kingston, with 130 IMPROVE ideas listed and 162 WISH ideas. Only 44 participants liked elements of ‘Built Environment’, while there were 138 suggested improvements and 177 WISH ideas for this theme. There was a significantly larger number of LIKE ideas for ‘Connected and Learning Communities’ than comments on what people would like to see IMPROVE and their WISH ideas. 169 comments were received on what people LIKE about ‘Vibrant Local Economy’, together with 63 IMPROVE ideas and 72 WISH ideas, suggesting that this is a well used and well valued feature within the community, but with need for continued improvement. See Table 1 below for more details. Table 1: Listing of numbers of Like, Improve and Wish ideas grouped by theme

Like Improve Wish Total ideas Arts, culture and heritage 56 31 56 143 Built environment 44 138 177 359 Community and support services 195 72 114 381 Connected and learning communities 178 57 53 288 Council operations 36 56 34 126 Free moving and accessible City 112 292 141 545 Living environment 201 103 122 426 Recreational spaces 407 130 162 699 Safe and clean City 78 191 110 379 Vibrant local economy 169 63 72 304 Other 83 5 90 178 Total ideas 1,559 1,138 1,131 3,828 Figures 1, 2 and 3 present a visual display of the 100 most frequently reported words in the LIKE, IMPROVE and WISH ideas respectively. In relation to the tag cloud, the size and density of each word reflects the frequency reported.


The most recurring LIKE ideas across the themes included community events and festivals; arts and cultural programs and facilities; Moorabbin Airport; participants were divided between those who opted for the maintenance of low rise buildings and those who LIKE new apartment-style developments; friendly community; schools and libraries; Council’s involvement in the community, debt reduction and customer service; walking and bike paths; access to public transport; parks and gardens; beaches; Waves Swimming Pool; clean and safe community; and shops, cafes and restaurants. Figure 1: Tag cloud - LIKE ideas


The most frequent IMPROVE ideas from surveying included more arts and cultural festivals and events; Christmas decorations; more funding for arts, culture and recognising Kingston’s history; improved public toilets; improved storm drainage; improved planning, thought and consultation on high density housing and its impacts; protection of the green wedge; noise from the airport; more medical centres; kindergartens and childcare; more services for the youth and aged populations; more libraries with longer opening hours; lower rates; free beachside parking; more parking at trains and near shopping centres; more bike paths; more frequent and regular trains; traffic flow; traffic congestion in Mentone and Cheltenham; road maintenance; more trees, plants and community gardens; more parks with equipment and play spaces; waterslide and dive pool at Waves; more swimming pools; more dog beaches; recycling bins at beaches; skate parks; upgrades to Dales Park and Don Tatnell Leisure Centre; clean beaches; less graffiti; better street lighting; more off leash dog areas and dog poo bags; more hard rubbish collection; more and a greater diversity of shops; and more bars, restaurants and cafes. Figure 2: Tag cloud - IMPROVE ideas


The most popular WISH ideas from surveying were limited development; retaining Kingston’s character; relocate Moorabbin Airport; improved services for all demographics; more health facilities; keep family focused family oriented atmosphere; better libraries and upgraded schools; affordable rates; better bike facilities and public transport; underground train crossings; more parks, gardens and trees; trampolines at parks; water parks; well maintained foreshore and parks; more off-leash dog areas; cleaner public spaces; more shopping opportunities, restaurants and job opportunities; and a train station at Southland. Figure 3: Tag cloud - WISH ideas


Overview of Community Forum Responses At the Community Forums, participants discussed their WISH ideas for each of the ten themes. Participants recommended capturing and promoting Kingston’s rich history including indigenous history; public art; historical walks to ensure Kingston’s promotes its ‘Arts, Culture and Heritage’. Community members encouraged alternative transport systems; community acres; and maintenance of green spaces for the future ‘Built Environment’. To ensure ‘Community and Support Services’, community members promoted connections between schools and aged care facilities; encouraging community interaction through community facilities; broadening the use of libraries as information hubs; and broader promotion of library use. A central online portal; information hubs; encouraging lifelong learning; facilitating learning and communication to enhance community life; and a volunteer bus were WISH ideas related to ‘Connected and Learning Communities’. Shared resources; diversification of services across cultures and ages; diversity of community centre courses; maintenance of Kingston Your City; and housing and rates affordability all WISH ideas related to Council Operations. More regular and integrated public transport; more shuttle bus routes from residences to train stations; improved beach parking; more bike paths; and more permanent speed cameras at black spots were identified for Free Moving and Accessible City. Community forum participants were particularly passionate about the theme ‘Living Environment’. Significant support for the Green Wedge was received, with participants advocating for tracts of open spaces, parkland, bush and reserves. Reduction of waste; use of solar power; and tree planting days were all recommended. Reinstatement or replacement of the Moorabbin Public Golf Course; integrated bike trails; shade trees along the beach; indoor netball and basketball facilities; maintaining trees and playgrounds at all sporting precincts; attracting visitors to foster economic development; and considering community hubs within which organisations can set up services such as skate parks were all suggested as WISH ideas related to ‘Recreational Spaces’. To ensure a ‘Safe and Clean City’, participants encouraged fenced-off designated dog exercise areas; better signage for off - leash dog areas; promotion of beach programs such as beach volleyball; visible police presence; and promote involvement in art projects. Christmas decorations; tree planting in shopping strips; promotion of bigger organizations and industry hubs in Kingston; showcasing local manufacturers; bus tours between businesses; arts precincts; and reinstatement of public golf courses were all encouraged to promote a ‘Vibrant Local Economy’.


North Ward Description of LivingKingston2035 Research Purpose This is a summary report describing the findings of Living Kingston 2035 LIKE IMPROVE and WISH ideas derived from North Ward residents who participated in community forums and surveys. As the provision of geographical data was not mandatory on the website, this information is limited and as such this report does not contain the website data. In addition, this report outlines key ideas specific to the North Ward that were submitted by residents in other wards through Theme-Based Community Forums and surveying. Data Source Ten Theme-based Community Forums were held in May and June 2012, with each forum focused on a particular theme, including Arts, Culture and Heritage; Built Environment; Community and Support Services; Connected and Learning Communities; Council Operations; Free Moving and Accessible City; Living Environment; Recreational Spaces; Safe and Clean City; and Vibrant Local Economy. Participants from all across Kingston participated in this series of forums. This summary report includes comments from the theme-based forums related to the North Ward. A further six area-based community forums, two within each ward, were held in late November 2012. A total of 96 community members from across Kingston attended this series of forums and provided feedback on broad statements on ten themes. The forums were facilitated by external consultants and were staged during various times during the week and on weekends. 13 community members attended the Dingley Village community forum and 18 attended the Clarinda forum. The majority of participants at these forums were over the age of 40. Between January and December 2012, community members were invited to participate in a short survey online, via Survey Monkey, or in paper format. Surveying was undertaken at a number of events and meeting places throughout the community, including at school pick up times, shopping centres, farmers markets and community events. Of 374 North Ward respondents who participated in paper and online surveys, 82.89% identified themselves as a resident, 9.89% identified themselves as a volunteer or paid worker, 5.3% were Council employees and 1.87% were business operators. There was a representation from all suburbs in the North Ward, with Dingley Village having the highest response rate with 83 participants, and Westall the lowest, with 3. Apart from a low response rate for the 0-9 age group, North Ward participation generally followed a bell curve. 9.62% of respondents spoke English as a second language.


Outline of Research

Theme

Overview of survey responses Of the survey respondents in the North Ward, 142 people ‘liked’ aspects of the existing ‘Community and Support Services’ on offer at the City of Kingston, with 48 IMPROVE ideas listed and 61 WISH ideas. 41 participants liked elements of ‘Safe and Clean City’, while there were 111 suggested improvements for this theme. Similarly, there was a significantly larger number of suggested improvements in the theme ‘Free Moving and Accessible City’ than comments on what people like about existing facilities, indicating that the community would like to see progress in this area. 157 comments were received on what people LIKE about ‘Recreational Spaces’, together with 90 IMPROVE ideas and 61 WISH ideas, suggesting that this is a well used and well valued feature within the community, but with support for continued improvement. See Table 1 below for more details. Table 1: Listing of numbers of Like, Improve and Wish ideas grouped by theme

Like Improve Wish Total ideas Arts, culture and heritage 32 16 19 67 Built environment 22 76 112 210 Community and support services 142 48 61 251 Connected and learning communities 64 16 22 102 Council operations 19 34 15 68 Free moving and accessible City 57 144 52 253 Living environment 90 45 44 179 Recreational spaces 157 90 61 308 Safe and clean City 41 111 48 200 Vibrant local economy 93 59 45 197 Other 50 11 45 106 Total ideas 767 650 524 1941 Figures 1, 2 and 3 present a visual display of the 100 most frequently reported words in the LIKE, IMPROVE and WISH ideas respectively. In relation to the tag cloud, the size and density of each word reflects the frequency reported.


The most recurring LIKE ideas across the themes were included City of Kingston festivals; arts exhibitions and programs; open spaces and the Green Wedge; a friendly community with local access to services; libraries and schools; Council’s communications with residents; access to public transport; parks; beaches and swimming pools; safe and clean public spaces; and the number and diversity of shops. See Figure 1 for most commonly used words when describing LIKE ideas. Figure 1: Tag cloud - LIKE ideas


The most frequent IMPROVE ideas from surveying included more free cultural events; better managed tips, airport noise and Green Wedge; more playgroups, kindergartens, youth and aged care services; more, better utilised and accessible Libraries and Community Centres; affordable rates that are spent equally across the municipality; improved public transport reliability and road congestion and maintenance; more trees and parks; more toilets and recreational facilities; less litter, tip odours and graffiti; and upgraded shopping precincts. See Figure 2 for most commonly used words when describing IMPROVE ideas. Figure 2: Tag cloud - IMPROVE ideas


The most popular WISH ideas from surveying were more festivals and community events; a balance between residential, industrial and open areas; more community services for all; a High School in Dingley Village; more affordable Council rates; better public transport connections; more parks and trees; more skate parks, playgrounds and swimming pools; to have a cleaner, safer Kingston; and better and improved shopping precincts. See Figure 3 for most commonly used words when describing WISH ideas. Figure 3: Tag cloud - WISH ideas


Overview of Community Forum Responses At the Community Forums, participants discussed their WISH ideas for each of the ten themes. Participants recommended a sculpture or key feature at the Dingley round-about to welcome people to Dingley; were supportive of retaining the Wurlitzer Organ; and advocated for arts exhibitions showcasing children’s work and an early educational expo. A mix of housing options supported by parks and social infrastructure; encouraging community gardens and managing odour from tips was recommended at the Clarinda forum. Participants discussed the need for more overpasses to ease traffic congestion at the Dingley Forum. On the theme of ‘Community and Support Services’, forum participants advocated for making streets more accessible and safe for the elderly, and it was recommended that a multi-lingual accessible hub be built in Clayton South. Forum participants recommended language schools, more regular festivals and a Volunteer Resource Centre; as well as a more ‘whole of Government approach’ with greater collaboration with other Councils and State Government. Participants encouraged an improvement on current levels of rates. For ‘Free Moving and Accessible City’ participants encouraged better and more frequent bus connections; forward planning; and underground and overpass railway crossings. Theme-based Community Forum participants suggested more transport connections to and from Clarinda. Participants encouraged the protection of open spaces; water sensitive urban design; reducing tip fees for residents; a railway station at Westfield Southland; and careful selection of shady trees on nature strips. Protection and celebration of Green Wedge was a strong emerging theme at the theme-based Community Forums There was much discussion at Community Forums about Recreational Spaces, with participants keen to see more parklands and reserves in Dingley; more walking and bike paths; eco-cubby projects; upgrading facilities at Waves Leisure Centre and more public toilets. Theme-based Community Forum participants advocated for improvements to Dales Park and suggested an underpass connecting Dales Park to Karkarook Park. Participants supported measures to reduce and clean up litter; adopt a sustainable land plan; enclose off-leash dog parks and enforce cat curfews. Transferring landfill operations was a matter of contention, with some participants opting for better managing tip odours and others for a slow phase out process and others for closing all completely. An upgrade to the shopping precinct including a paved café precinct was recommended in Dingley Village as well as beautification of the Clayton Shopping Centre; creating opportunities for pop-up stores; more accessible funding for community organisations; and providing opportunities to engage with all ages and groups within the multicultural community were all suggested.


South Ward Description of LivingKingston2035 Research Purpose This is a summary report describing the findings of Living Kingston 2035 LIKE IMPROVE and WISH ideas derived from South Ward residents who participated in community forums and surveys. As the provision of geographical data was not mandatory on the website, this information is limited and as such this report does not contain the website data. In addition, this report outlines key ideas specific to the South Ward that were submitted by residents in other wards through Theme-Based Community Forums and surveying. Data Source Ten Theme-based Community Forums were held in May and June 2012, with each forum focused on a particular theme, including Arts, Culture and Heritage; Built Environment; Community and Support Services; Connected and Learning Communities; Council Operations; Free Moving and Accessible City,; Living Environment; Recreational Spaces; Safe and Clean City; and Vibrant Local Economy. Participants from all wards participated in this series of forums. This summary report includes comments from the theme-based forums related to the South Ward. A further six area-based community forums, two within each ward, were held in late November 2012. A total of 96 community members from across Kingston attended this series of forums and provided feedback on broad statements on ten themes. The forums were facilitated by external consultants and were staged during various times during the week and on weekends. 13 community members attended the Aspendale Gardens community forum and 21 attended the Chelsea forum. The majority of participants at these forums were over the age of 40. Between January and December 2012, community members were invited to participate in a short survey online, via Survey Monkey, or in paper format. Surveying was undertaken at a number of events and meeting places throughout the community, including at school pick up times, shopping centres, farmers markets and community events. Of 458 South Ward respondents who participated in paper and online surveys, 84.49% identified themselves as a resident, 8.51% identified themselves as a volunteer or paid worker, 4.58% were Council employees and 2.40% were business operators. There was a representation from all suburbs in the South Ward, with Aspendale having the highest response rate with 87 participants, and Waterways the lowest, with 12. South Ward participation generally followed a bell curve. 3.8% of respondents spoke English as a second language.


Outline of Research

Theme

Overview of survey responses Of the survey respondents in the South Ward, 368 people ‘liked’ aspects of the existing ‘Recreational Spaces’ on offer at the City of Kingston, with 29 IMPROVE ideas listed and 162 WISH ideas. Only 97 participants liked elements of ‘Vibrant Local Economy’, while there were 223 suggested improvements for this theme. Similarly, there was a significantly larger number of suggested improvements in the theme ‘Free Moving and Accessible City’ than comments on what people like about existing facilities, indicating that the community would like to see progress in this area. 105 comments were received on what people LIKE about ‘Connected and Learning Facilities’, together with 52 IMPROVE ideas and 50 WISH ideas, suggesting that this is a well used and well valued feature within the community, but with support for continued improvement. See Table 1 below for more details. Table 1: Listing of numbers of Like, Improve and Wish ideas grouped by theme

Like Improve Wish Total ideas Arts, culture and heritage 43 27 29 99 Built environment 53 87 124 264 Community and support services 194 65 119 378 Connected and learning communities 105 52 50 207 Council operations 25 41 23 89 Free moving and accessible City 96 265 102 463 Living environment 208 95 111 414 Recreational spaces 368 29 162 559 Safe and clean City 91 115 69 275 Vibrant local economy 97 223 66 386 Other 66 79 85 230 Total ideas 1,346 1,078 940 3364 Figures 1, 2 and 3 present a visual display of the 100 most frequently reported words in the LIKE, IMPROVE and WISH ideas respectively. In relation to the tag cloud, the size and density of each word reflects the frequency reported.


The most recurring LIKE ideas across the themes were festivals; green wedge and open spaces; the friendly community feel; multiculturalism; schools and libraries; bike trails and walking trails; parks and wetlands; beaches and playgrounds; quiet and clean community spaces; and shops. See Figure 1 for most commonly used words when describing LIKE ideas. Figure 1: Tag cloud - LIKE ideas


The most frequent IMPROVE ideas included more festivals and events; a balanced mix of development; better drainage; more kindergartens and childcare centres; more schools and libraries; lower Council rates; more bike paths, better maintained roads and underground rail crossings; more trees, flowers and edible gardens; more skate parks, swimming pools and playgrounds; more clean toilets and bins in parks; less graffiti; and clean and safe beaches. See Figure 2 for most commonly used words when describing IMPROVE ideas. Figure 2: Tag cloud - IMPROVE ideas


The most popular WISH ideas include not too much over development; more open spaces; more community dialogue and services; a strong sense of community; more schools and libraries; cheaper rates; safer, more frequent and better integrated public transport; underground level crossings; less traffic congestion; more parks and gardens; recreational spaces that support a diversity of activities; a swimming pool in the South Ward; safe and clean beaches; and more shops, restaurants and cafes in Aspendale Gardens, Carrum, Patterson Lakes and Edithvale. See Figure 3 for most commonly used words when describing WISH ideas. Figure 3: Tag cloud - WISH ideas


Overview of Community Forum Responses At the Community Forums, participants discussed their WISH ideas for each of the ten themes. Community Forum participants encouraged the upgrade and better utilisation of the Chelsea Hall; provide opportunities for community art in public spaces; better promotion of the Wurlitzer Organ; moving exhibitions in libraries and public spaces; multicultural celebrations; and a more central arts hub. Participants advocated for a balanced mix of development with parks and open spaces; more accessible and centrally located facilities for those people living with a disability; better and integrated bus connections with train timetables; more community gardens; and more street lighting. For Community and Support Services, Community Forum participants suggested more community information workshops on healthy living; more housing options in Chelsea for the homeless; flexible multi-use services and facilities; supporting ageing and men’s health; and better support for new parents. Participants encouraged utilising volunteers to engage effectively with the community; improved community engagement; shared use of community hubs; programs designed to help migrants develop a sense of belonging; and lifelong learning that builds connections. Participants were supportive of the community directory; advocated for programs to educate Council Officers about groups and their role; community renewal programs; increased support for technology use for community grant applications; and ensure an underlying focus on men’s health throughout public policy. More bike parking facilities at train stations and shopping centres; regular, frequent shuttle buses servicing train station to reduce the number of parked cars; a road from Bonbeach to Patterson Lakes; better cycling facilities and underground railway crossings were recommended to ensure Kingston is a ‘Free Moving and Accessible City’. Participants encouraged developing more spaces and activities for young people; a swimming pool in Chelsea with café and gym; police patrolling on foot; sea-based swimming pools; fenced parks; dedicated 24/7 dog beach; better water quality water in Patterson Lakes; bay trail from Mentone to Frankston; iconic beach boxes and foreshore rotundas; and clean modern accessible toilets in recreational spaces. Under the theme of ‘Safe and Clean City’, participants recommended more police on the streets after dark; education programs for dog and cat owners; improved street lighting in Bonbeach; and improved vehicle and pedestrian safety. To support a ‘Vibrant Local Economy’, participants recommended events at Bicentennial Park; a Farmers Market in Chelsea; encouraging new businesses; easier pedestrian access to businesses; more fresh food shopping strips; and engaging more effectively with refugees and migrants.


Arts, Culture & Heritage Theme Description of LivingKingston2035 Research Purpose This report presents an overview of the like, improve and wish statements from the Arts, Culture & Heritage theme. Key topics grouped within this theme are community arts and cultural programs, creative networks, our history, public art, and visual and performing arts spaces. Key wish ideas focus on heritage, public art, regional cultural facilities, preserving city halls and festivals. Outline of Research Like, Improve, Wish ideas Surveys Kingston’s festivals and community events were by far the most stated like ideas by survey participants; all four were mentioned however Mordialloc Fine Food, Wine and Music Festival was the most common. Survey participants also liked the Arts Centre, arts and cultural projects, Lens Mist photographic competition, seniors week activities and public art. Interestingly the number of like ideas received was much higher than either improve or wish ideas, supporting that this is an area the community is quite happy with. However, survey participants did want to improve the use of the arts centre (particularly city hall and a fully functioning theatre); better Christmas decorations; sought greater recognition for the Indigenous people of the area; an increase in the number of free local events and festivals (particular aimed at children); more dance events and classes (particularly ballroom); and arts space in Clarinda/Clayton South. Wish ideas included artistic hubs with art classes; a museum; innovative public art to beautify streetscapes and foreshore; graffiti walls; Christmas decorations in main streets; focus on preservation of local history; and keeping Kingston’s free festivals. Website submissions Respondents expressed appreciation for Kingston’s festivals and public art, however war memorials and history was the resounding theme in the website submissions. Respondents saw Kingston’s war memorials as very important and sought improvements to sites in Mordialloc and Cheltenham. They also sought improvements to historical preservation through Council support or historical networks, a better historical website and further development of the City Historian role. Other wish and improve suggestions mirrored those received through the surveys including greater recognition for Aboriginal people in Kingston; calls for a state of the art theatre; and more community led art projects.


Theme-based forums The theme-based forum attracted positive feedback on Kingston’s public art; arts centres (Shirley Burke and Kingston Arts Centre); historical buildings and festivals. Much of the improve feedback centred on creating networking and educational opportunities for the arts community; better promotion of Kingston’s art and historical places of interest; and greater assistance with the protection of heritage buildings. A strong emerging theme in this session was around performing arts and the wish for greater support for theatre, choirs and the eisteddfod, and better facilities to hold such events. There was a strong wish for a state of the art performance venue. There were also several comments indicating a greater need for arts and cultural activities specifically for younger people up to the age of 35. This included music events and visual arts, working with schools and the TAFE. Participants also saw the green wedge and Kingston’s other parks and industrial spaces as a great opportunity for community gardens, living museums and arts spaces. Other forums in the community Consistent with the above sources of input, key feedback from these sessions were an appreciation for Kingston’s public art; the desire for halls and studio spaces for dancing; more festivals for young people and preservation of history. Unique to this set of data was a strong call for an arts hub/community studio in the south of the municipality (Chelsea).

• 45 votes from 18 supporters – approximately 16% of all participants votes for this and each gave on average 2.5 votes indicating that those who support this idea feel strongly about it.

Feedback on 10 wish statements The 10 wish statements for this theme frequently mentioned arts centre, culture, festivals, heritage, halls, theatre, parks and aboriginal. Online voting platform The Arts and Cultural Heritage theme did not have any wish statements that ranked in the top ten overall. However the top three wish statements in this category were: “Create a waterfront events centre or world class arts and cultural hub”

• Interestingly, a similar statement “create a regional cultural centre or precinct” ranked fifth and attracted 19 votes from seven supporters (average of 2.7 votes per person), indicating a lot of enthusiasm about these ideas.

“Access to an excellent range of festivals in the community”

• Ranked second in this category with 41 votes, however had more supporters (20) than the highest ranking wish statement.

“Enjoy public arts in our community spaces”

• 37 votes, and again had more supporters (19) than the highest ranking wish statement.


Only one wish statement attracted a comment, “Acknowledge and preserve Kingston’s history”. This was ranked fourth highest with 12 supporters and 30 votes. The comment called for a municipal-wide strategic approach to preserving our history. Interestingly a new wish idea ‘Protect our history’ attracted seven votes from three supporters. In contrast to feedback during the ‘like, improve, wish’ stage of consultation, “retain and showcase our city halls” was the lowest ranking wish idea on the online voting platform, attracting only six votes from four supporters. Area-based forums The ides with the most ticks of support were “establish informative sculpture trails and heritage walks” and “Access to an excellent range of festivals in the community”. These were closely followed by support for public art in community spaces and, as one comment summarised, making Kingston a ‘Fitzroy by the sea’, renowned for its arts and culture. Throughout the comments, the need to preserve our history was strongly championed; this includes European and indigenous history. Strong support for a world class arts and cultural hub and regional cultural centre or precinct was given, however many questioned the financial viability. Performing arts space was again recognised as a distinct need. Although “retain and showcase our city halls” only received one tick of support, the many comments demonstrated a resounding support for the preservation and better utilisation of both Moorabbin and Chelsea Town Halls, particularly celebrating the Wurlitzer Organ.


Built Environment Description of LivingKingston2035 Research Purpose This report presents an overview of the like, improve and wish statements from the Built Environment theme. Key topics grouped within this theme were the airport, building developments, housing options, housing density, infrastructure and planned use of space. Key wish ideas focus on sustainable development, green public spaces and infrastructure. Outline of Research Like, Improve, Wish ideas Surveys Survey participants reported that they like the low-rise, older style suburbs and neighbourhood character; open space, green wedge and parkland; beautification of activity centres/streetscapes; and a number of respondents liked Moorabbin airport. A large number of participants want to reduce the increase in housing density and improve the amount of public seating, shade, vegetation and facilities along the foreshore; improve drainage and flood mitigation infrastructure; parking; appearance of the city (more colour, update old houses); and number of cafes/eateries. There was also a lot of support for closing/relocating Moorabbin airport. Wish ideas mostly focussed around maintaining current housing density and/or supporting higher density by having better infrastructure, facilities and open space. Participants also wish for improved road connections (Aspendale-Aspendale Gardens, Station St Carrum); better foreshore infrastructure and facilities; underground powerlines; preservation of the green wedge; more influence in planning decisions. Website submissions The majority of website submissions relating our built environment related to housing density and height restrictions. Participants wanted to retain Kingston’s amenity and neighbourhood character through less intensive development, an increased focus on height restrictions and no more high-density housing. Many believed that existing traffic congestion and flooding issues would be made worse if higher density living increased. A number of submissions discussed wishes and areas of improvement for the Green Wedge and open spaces. One submission liked Kingston’s open space facilities and others wanted Green Wedge to be maintained better. Only one comment said the Green Wedge should be developed for housing and retail. The community having a greater say in planning and development was also an issue that participants believed needed improvement. Residents wanted more say earlier on in the planning process and more opportunities to provide feedback.


Offensive odour from local landfills was raised through website submissions. Some were concerned that this was affecting property prices and wanted more action taken to address the issue. Theme-based forums A strongly supported idea at the theme-based forums was better public transport. Participants wished for Kingston to be designed in a way that residents wouldn’t need cars and could rely only on sustainable transport options such as walking, cycling and using trams, buses and trains. Others wanted light rail in Kingston, “park and ride” schemes and satellite parking facilities. Another well-supported theme was maintaining open space in urban areas and keeping the current level of green areas. Participants wanted space provided for community gardens and they liked Cheltenham Park and Braeside Park. Some participants liked Kingston’s heritage buildings and said government should bear the cost of maintenance, while others thought improvement was needed when heritage concerns were considered in planning and developments. Social and affordable housing was also discussed. Participants believed this is an area in need of improvement in Kingston and they wished for policies to be developed for sustainable, affordable community housing. Other forums in the community Key topics discussed were the airport, building developments, housing options, housing density, infrastructure and planned use of space. The topic mentioned the most related to height restrictions. Participants liked buildings in residential streets that are no higher than one or two stories. However, they also wanted height restrictions to be limited and improved across the municipality. In addition, participants were against developments that blocked views of the beach. Environmental sustainability was seen as something needing improvement. Comments were made that environmental controls and requirements should be strengthened for new developments and that rainwater tanks and non-carbon energy systems should be mandatory. Participants also wanted no expansion of Moorabbin airport, more affordable housing and transparency to ratepayers with regard to the new neighbourhood planning zones. One comment discussed building accessibility and that all buildings should be designed in accordance with the Federal Government’s Disability Act and Australian standards. Three ‘out of the box’ wishes were made, including putting the railway line underground, building a swimming pool with hydrotherapy in the South Ward and getting rid of VCAT. Feedback on 10 wish statements The 10 wish statements for this theme frequently mentioned affordable housing, accessible developments, sustainable infrastructure, preserving open spaces, quality infrastructure, managing landfills and empowering the community in planning decisions.


Online voting platform Built Environment had no wish statements rank highly enough to make it into the overall top ten ranked wishes. For this theme, the top ranked wish ideas were: “Anticipate population and environmental changes and create infrastructure that will meet emerging needs”

• 38 participants supported it, which is about a third of the total number of participants • Two comments were made for this wish which called for lower density housing and to commence

major projects sooner given they all take many years to complete. “Preserve our green and open spaces”

• Received 89 votes and was ranked second in this category. “The community has a real voice to influence planning decisions about new building developments in their neighbourhood”

• Received 59 votes, putting it third in this theme. • 25 participants supported it, which is about 20% of all participants.

Finally, one new wish idea was suggested in this category - “Clear development directions. Be clear about where development will and will not occur and make these boundaries immovable” and it received 6 votes from 4 participants. Area-based forums The idea with the most support was “Preserve our green and open spaces”. Participants had mixed feelings on this issue. Most wanted the Green Wedge to be preserved and open space to increase, however there were others who agreed with some level of development in the Green Wedge. Other comments about this idea called for Council to acquire land in the Green Wedge to offset development and to create more paths and recreation areas. The second most supported idea was an ‘out of the box’ thought to “Create a central station in Kingston”. Participants said a central station was needed and would reduce congestion, and that more public transport in general was needed. Grade separations were also mentioned as an important issue. Ideas that generated the highest number of comments were “Refocus business developments to enhance community wellbeing into the future” and “The community has a real voice to influence planning decisions about new building developments in their neighbourhood”. In regards to refocusing business developments, many participants said landfills were affecting community wellbeing and needed to be removed. Some participants mentioned issues with planes flying over residential areas, however, others liked the airport and wanted it to be a base for interstate travelling and more flight training. Another person wanted more manufacturing and employment opportunities in Kingston. In relation to the community’s voice in planning decisions, participants said there needed to be a balance between growing business and residential needs. The community wanted more say in planning decisions and a way to voice their concerns, however participants also thought the State Government could too easily override the wishes of local communities. Many wanted Kingston to retain its character and were concerned that developers had all the say. Most participants supported high-density housing in appropriate areas.


Community and Support Services Theme Description of LivingKingston2035 Research Purpose This report presents an overview of the like, improve and wish statements from the Community and Support Services theme. This theme encompasses services for all ages and stages of our lives. Key wish ideas focus on community, services, people, and ageing.

In relation to the key themes, participants want services that help to connect people create a sense of inclusion and therefore help to decrease feelings of isolation within our community. In particular, there was emphasis on support for multicultural groups, vulnerable people (e.g. involving family violence and low income earners), financial counselling, home care for the aged, free and affordable activities, and a community bus service. In order to achieve these wants, participants cited a need to ensure the ongoing

Like, Improve, Wish ideas Surveys Survey participants reported that they like the friendly community; family friendly atmosphere; maternal and child health support; cultural diversity; medical facilities; aged care facilities; immunisation programs; and the village feel. Survey participants encouraged Council to improve the following: more kindergarten, playgroup and childcare facilities; aged care facilities to meet the increasing needs of the community; more municipal support for local churches; more sport and hobby clubs; more services and activities for youth; disability programming; mental health care; more medical services; more charities to support the poor; more and better hospitals; and accessible multilingual information. Community members suggested wish ideas including a mobile library; cheaper childcare; a focus on families; more community dialogue and interaction; transport for older people; funded three year old kindergarten programs; safe nursing homes; and celebration and promotion of multicultural organisations. Website submissions Participants like services that are provided to the young and elderly as well as Dingley’s village atmosphere. Website submissions suggested the need to improve Council-run playgroups and getting more expertise in children’s services so young families are supported and connected in a real and practical educational way. Participants wish to see children’s services hubs that deliver MCH, playgroup, occasional care, kindergarten, parent groups and vacation care in purpose built, modern facilities. Other submissions focuses on a culture of support to single parent families and families operating under difficult circumstances, as well as a focus on preventing youth suicides. Theme based forums


provision of ‘multiuse’ facilities, sporting facilities, volunteer training programs, open communication, and integration. Improvements are wanted in the areas of growing volunteer programs, improving accessibility, and communicating about available services, including offering information in multiple languages. Similar to participant improvements, they also wished for enhanced communication (including across languages), improved safety, lobbying for more aged care packages, rewards for community volunteers, and improved connections and transport. Other forums in the community Participants like a diverse range of services for most groups including recreation, education, seniors’ services and transport. There is also support for historical and arts services and Council’s ongoing commitment to positive ageing. Relationships in the community are perceived to have grown since the formation of the Chelsea Community Renewal Committee. In an ‘out of the box’ comment, there is a wish for the Chelsea Community Renewal Project to continue with the support of paid staff. Participants would like to see improvements to relationships and the level of communication and dialogue between community groups (including across languages), as well as Council continuing to respond to community needs. Participants wish for there to be a reduction in the divide between the south and north areas of the municipality, and sustainable community committees focussing on positive ageing and engaging volunteerism.

• 89 votes

Feedback on 10 wish statements Online voting platform The top three WISH statements in this category were: “Support for positive ageing within our community”

• Voted for by 39 participants – this is 34% of all participants • One comment was provided stating the need for a hydrotherapy pool at one of Kingston’s

complexes “Affordable and accessible support services for young people, families and vulnerable community members”

• 76 votes • Voted for by 32 participants – 27% of all participants • Two comments were provided calling for a focus on disadvantaged and vulnerable people, and the

need for social justice and equity across the community. “Accessible and affordable community transport options”

• 64 votes • Voted for by 28 participants – 24% of all participants

Feedback from Forums The highest level of support from the 10 identified wish statements was ‘Council facilities, community hubs and renewal projects that support creative and versatile service delivery models’ with five ticks of support. Comments focus on the need for flexible multi-use facilities, providing connections to the community and


considering broadening the scope of libraries to be information hubs. Other moderately supported wish statements were for ‘access to a range of affordable medical and support services’ (four ticks of support), ‘support positive ageing within our community’ (three ticks of support), and ‘educate and support community members to be healthy’ (three ticks of support). New ideas raised were to provide and encourage learning opportunities, and develop a Chelsea heritage trail as per Mordialloc and Mentone. Key points across data gathered:

- There were significant differences found for support of wish statements from online platforms and forums

- While ‘Council facilities, community hubs and renewal projects support creative and versatile service delivery models’ received the highest level of support at the forums, it received the second lowest number of votes for the online voting with 23 votes from 10 supporters. In comparison, the highest online votes went to ‘Support for positive ageing within our community’ which received moderate support at the forums with three ticks of support.

- Limited online support for ‘access to a range of affordable medical and support services’ (42 votes from 17 participants) whereas the second highest ticks of support at forum with four ticks of support.

- Providing services for families and the young, as well as the elderly and vulnerable groups was a common theme across methods of data collection.

- Minimal support across all mediums for ‘out of the box – celebrate birthdays in Kingston’ suggestion where every resident receives a cupcake or card from the mayor on their birthday.


Connected and Learning Communities Theme Description of LivingKingston2035 Research Purpose This report presents an overview of the like, improve and wish statements from the Connected and Learning Communities theme. Key topics grouped within this theme are community events and facilities, community health and wellbeing, libraries, life-long learning, inclusive and diverse communities. Key wish ideas focus on community, access, services, and volunteers.

Wish statements made via the website called for environmentally friendly programs run in schools and community groups to encourage better resource and transport use, helping the elderly engage within

Like, Improve, Wish ideas Surveys Related to ‘Connected and Learning Communities’, survey participants reported that they like libraries; schools; community centres; football clubs; access to amenities; community groups; children’s programming, activities and facilities; and Senior Citizens Clubs. Survey participants’ suggested improve ideas included English language classes; more libraries; more schools; book clubs; more varied programming in libraries and community centres; engagement between Monash University and the Clayton and Clarinda communities; more assistance for schools; better school facilities; more adult focussed classes; more cultural diversity in library books; and longer library opening hours. Wish ideas of survey participants included more schools for children with a disability; smaller classroom sizes; more community centres; more Council information at libraries; more youth programs; free Wi-Fi; broader education in community centres encompassing health care, music and mentors that is accessible to all; affiliated spacing and well supported community groups; a sporting complex; a High School in Dingley Village; a hub in Westall to support multicultural students; and better community facilities in Moorabbin. Website submissions Participants like having access to Council supported events which build connections to the community, good schools, the community centre and library in Clarinda, the Parkdale Village and close proximity to the library, and Mordialloc and the village atmosphere. Submissions made via the website wanted to see improvements and modernisation to Chelsea library, greater availability of affordable recreational and educational programs and events, support for neighbourhood houses, community centres, clubs and other local organisations, and more entertaining and challenging facilities for young people.


school programs, parenting information nights and courses, and community disability awareness programs. Theme based forums A theme based forum for this topic did not attract enough interest from the community and as such did not proceed. Other forums in the community The topics mentioned the most at the community forums related to life-long learning and community events and facilities. Participants like libraries, festivals, community centres, community health centres, volunteering opportunities and volunteer training. Access to life-long learning and on-line connectivity is liked as it helps to create a vibrant inclusive community. Participants also discussed the need to improve opportunities for on-line e-learning, improving links between generations, and keeping our festivals local to connect the community. Other improvements were submitted in terms of remembering that many people still need hardcopies of newspapers and magazines. Improving community engagement and volunteering was noted where subsidies or reimbursements for fares or petrol should be provided to volunteers to encourage those on limited incomes to volunteer more. Wish statements focused on maintaining community centres or hubs which interlink organisations and services in the one area, along with establishing more learning hubs for all ages. It was suggested that a Volunteer Resource Centre be established within Kingston to support both what participants like and where improvements could be made. It was also suggested that an up-to-date booklet, information page or link for community members to identify organisations, volunteer groups, community groups, services and committees could be provided with rate notices.

• 52 votes

Feedback on 10 wish statements Online voting platform Overall this theme received less support than many of the other themes. Top three WISH statements in this category: “Access to a range of life-long learning options that are responsive to our needs”

• Voted for by 22 participants – 19% of participants “A community with access to new and emerging technologies”

• 39 votes • Voted for by 15 participants – 13% of participants

“Co-ordinate and connect volunteers within the community”

• 36 votes • Voted for by 15 participants - 13% of participants

Feedback from Forums The highest level of support from the 10 identified wish statements came from ‘Village-type communities where people are friendly, connected and can access what they want when they need it’ with four ticks of support. This idea helps to facilitate communication and helps to ensure the right people have access to


the right services. Parkdale hub is provided as a great example of a community hub where the community can access a number of services. A central online space to visit and locate information on services, facilities, groups and clubs was also suggested. There was only minimal support for other ideas in this theme at the forums with two ticks of support being given to ‘Co-ordinate and connect volunteers within the community’, ‘A community with access to new and emerging technologies’, ‘Access to an excellent range of local and affordable events in the community’, and ‘Specific learning infrastructure and programs designed to support inclusion.’ New ideas raised at the forums included keep fit trails in various areas with equipment at regular intervals and having a large regional park with trees and lakeside cafes for the community. Key points across data gathered:

- There were differences between support for ideas at the forum and online platforms. At the forum, the highest support was given to ‘Village-type communities where people are friendly, connected and can access what they want when they need it.’ There was also support for community hubs and village communities via the website. However, as part of the online platforms, this idea was ranked sixth in the theme, with only 28 votes from 13 supporters.

- In comparison, the online platforms generated the highest number of votes for ‘Access to a range of life-long learning options that are responsive to our needs’ with 52 votes from 22 supporters. However, at the forums, this received only one tick of support.

- Website submissions focused mainly on facilities, events and programs such as schools, libraries and the village atmosphere or many areas within Kingston. There was no mention of volunteers. In comparison, at the different forums, the importance of supporting volunteers was raised across all like, wish and improve areas. There was some support for coordinating and connecting volunteers via the online platforms.


Council Operations Description of LivingKingston2035 Research Purpose This report presents an overview of the like, improve and wish statements from the Council Operations theme. Key topics grouped within this theme are rates, community consultation, trees and car parking. Key wish ideas focus on rates, social media, Council services and the equal spread of funding for projects across the municipality. Outline of Research

While some participants like Kingston’s use of social media and development of a Smartphone app saying “it’s a Council moving with the times”, others wanted a better website with easier to find information. In

Like, Improve, Wish ideas Surveys Some survey participants said that they liked Kingston’s support staff and quick response to requests for maintenance or assistance. Services that respondents like include aged care, free foreshore parking permits, leisure centres, childcare facilities, community buildings and Village Committees. Kingston Your City was rated highly by many participants with some saying they wanted Council to keep publishing it permanently. Many said Kingston is a progressive, ethical Council that is responsible with debt and has a good reputation and visible Councillors. However, there were a number of submissions calling for less politics in Council. Reduced rates strongly emerged as a theme in the survey submissions. The majority wanted reduced rates, no increase in rates and improved pension concessions. Other improvements that participants want include a greater level of consultation on planning and developments, more car parking, free foreshore parking for visitors, a better website, equitable funding of projects across all wards, less ‘red tape’ for businesses and homeowners and more ward meetings. Wish ideas include expanding and improving Council services, Council partnerships with industrial estates and the community, Council offices to stay open more hours and more engagement through social media. Website submissions Rates and funding were an important issue to those who made website submissions. Some believed that more funding should go into the boundaries of well-established areas and that more maintenance of general infrastructure was needed in Mentone and Mordialloc. Trees were an issue that received a number of mentions. Some wanted improvement to Council’s approach to tree planting and pruning, with a greater use of native trees.


addition, participants liked Council’s free foreshore parking permit for residents and how Council listens and responds to the needs of young people. Lastly, a comment was made about the need for improvement to Council’s acknowledgement of our traditional landowners. The comment called for acknowledgement on all Council documents and an acknowledgement before each Council meeting.

• 57 votes

Feedback on 10 wish statements The 10 wish statements for this theme frequently mentioned public transport, improved railway systems, better bike trails, car parking and grade separations. Online voting platform The Council Operations theme had no wish statements make it into the overall top ten ranked wishes. “Council rate charges are reasonable and funds are carefully spent”

• This statement was ranked first in this category and 24 people supported it, which is about a 20% of all participants. This is one of two wish statements in this theme that received comments. The commenter said it is important to meet ratepayer expectations with an appropriate budget. The person also said extending the multitasking of community buildings may help get the best value for money out of our resources.

“Council’s policies, processes and financial decisions are progressive; support the local economy and a zero-waste environment”

• Ranked second in this category with 35 votes from 16 supporters – almost 14% of all participants “Councillors are community-minded, informed and responsible”

• Ranked third in this category with 32 votes from 14 participants – 12% of all participants • Received 32 votes from 14 participants

Two new wish ideas were suggested for this theme: “Pensioner discount on Council rates” which received 6 votes from 2 supporters and “Make backyard ‘sustainable’ living easier!” which received 3 votes from 1 supporter. Council rates and charges were the most supported issue for participants in this category. Area-based forums The idea with the most ticks of support was “Council encourages a sense of civic pride and showcases our unique features”. However, this idea received the least amount of comments. Participants said it was an interesting idea, encouraged Council to use new technology and its Smartphone app and for rubbish bin contractors to pick up stray waste on windy days. There were two ideas that equally had the second highest amount of support. These were: “Council is visionary, makes informed decisions and is an excellent custodian” and “Council proactively and effectively communicates with the community”. Participants who supported the former idea said Council members should have less focus on politics and Council officers should learn more about community groups and the work they do in Kingston. Those who supported the latter idea said Council operations need to be transparent and more consultative. They praised Council’s journal Kingston Your City and Council for putting information in the local newspapers.


The idea which generated the most comments was “Council advocates effectively on behalf of the community”. Participants said a whole of government approach was needed with greater connection to neighbouring Councils and an equal focus on all wards. Three new ideas were suggested for this theme:

• “Ensure an underlying focus on men’s health throughout public policies” • “Consideration of the changing nature of City of Kingston citizens given the population diversity and

movement of surrounding local government areas. Support services and recognition of cultural diversity.”

• “Creative ways of connecting all areas, groups and individuals from across Kingston. Foster a sense of being a “community”. How can we work together for loftier goals and ambitions to benefit the whole not just the few?”


Free Moving and Accessible City Description of LivingKingston2035 Research Purpose This report presents an overview of the like, improve and wish statements from the Free Moving and Accessible City theme. Key topics grouped within this theme are cycling, parking, public transport, traffic and walking. Key wish ideas focus on cycling, roadways, footpaths and public transport. Outline of Research Like, Improve, Wish ideas Surveys Survey participants liked Kingston’s proximity to the city and large number of public transport options (busses and trains) the most. Participants also liked the availability of parking; opportunities to walk and cycle (good bike tracks); good maintenance of roadways; and free beach parking for residents. However, a much larger number of responses were recorded for improve ideas which include: more parking particularly in key areas such as schools, shops, train stations and the beach in summer; safer roadways through more crossings, slower traffic and faster repairs; more bike racks and safe bicycle paths; more and better bus shelters; improved public transport in Dingley and more frequent trains/busses; and reduced traffic congestion, particularly along Nepean Highway. Most wish ideas closely reflected the improve ideas, however of note is a train station at Southland which was a popular wish idea, as was a boardwalk track from Mordialloc Creek to Patterson River; no trucks on Kingston roads; dedicated bike routes to keep cyclists off Nepean Hwy and Beach Road; and underground railway lines. Website submissions The majority of website submissions relating to what people liked were about Kingston’s bicycle and walking paths. At the same time, participants wanted improved footpath maintenance, safer cycling lanes, more bike paths and more direct connections between them, and an extension of the Bay Trail. Another strong theme that emerged from the website submissions was in relation to roads planning, traffic, congestion, and road maintenance. A large number of comments were made about issues at specific roads and intersections. Other submissions called for quieter traffic, no heavy vehicles on local roads and more car parking. In addition, while three submissions were made about the good public transport available in Kingston, more participants wanted to see improvements to the scheduling, punctuality, frequency and cleanliness of both trains and buses. Participants also wanted more infrastructure that promoted sustainable and active transport such as bicycle parking at train stations, shelters, path connections and car parking.


Theme-based forums Conversations at the theme-based forums were based around key topics; however they were not limited to those topics. Consequently, at the Free Moving and Accessible City theme-based forum, the most strongly mentioned topics related to retaining our neighbourhood character and heritage, limiting development, community sustainability and preserving green, open spaces. When discussion moved back to the key topics, participants wanted walking tracks along the beach and Mordialloc Creek, and wide footpaths to accommodate a range of uses. Participants also wished for the “back of curb” option for the Bay Trail, continuation of the Bay Trail to Frankston, improved east-west cycle access and cycling groups for schools. In addition, participants wished for better public transport, more public transport options and integrated train systems. Other forums in the community Key topics discussed were cycling, parking, public transport, traffic and walking. The topic mentioned the most related to public transport. Forum participants liked the two train lines servicing Kingston, the bus services, access to these services and how they link Kingston to other areas. However, other participants believed bus services to the city should be improved, as should the frequency and length of the services, especially to industrial and educational sites. Railway crossing improvements were also wanted for the safety and accessibility of vehicles, pedestrians and wheelchairs/scooters. Some participants wished for railway crossings to be eliminated or for railway lines to be raised or underground. While many comments were made about liking public transport, there were even more comments made about improvements wanted in this area. Another common theme was bicycle paths and footpaths. Participants liked Beach Road being available for cyclists, as well as Kingston’s many bike and walking paths; while at the same time the participants also wanted more sealed off-road paths for cyclists, improved footpath maintenance and for existing gravel paths to be sealed. Participants also discussed accessibility and links to services and other suburbs. They liked easy access to freeways, strong arterial road networks that cross the municipality and public transport links to other areas. While the participants liked these road links, they also wanted improvements to traffic congestion, and suggestions were made about reducing single occupant vehicles and establishing a shared driver and passenger transport scheme. Feedback on 10 wish statements The 10 wish statements for this theme frequently mentioned public transport, cycling, roads, cars and trails. Online voting platform A Free Moving and Accessible City was well-supported theme, with two wish statements from this area making it into the overall top ten ranked wishes. For this theme, the top ranked wishes were:


“Manage traffic flows to minimise congestion and delays” • Ranked sixth overall with 115 votes • This statement was supported by 45 participants, which is about 40% of all people who took part in

the voting platform. Interestingly, the idea of better managing traffic flows received 115 votes; yet wanting excellent quality roadways was only allocated 16 votes.

“A cycling city, bicycle friendly lifestyle and environment”

• Received 113 votes by 45 participants, which again is about 40% of all people who took part in the voting platform.

“Safe walkways for pedestrians to move around Kingston”

• Received 99 votes, 43 participants supported it, which is about 37% of all participants. Something noteworthy that arose in this category was that bicycle infrastructure and safe walkways for pedestrians were ranked second and third, which was ahead of modern public transport systems (this ranked fourth). Finally, one new wish idea was suggested in this category - “Traffic calming on local streets, with landscaping and water sensitive design” and it received 12 votes from 6 participants. Area based forums The idea of “Modern transport systems that are safe, well connected and frequently used” prompted a great deal of comments from participants, especially in relation to grade separations at railway crossings, more frequent public transport, better connections between services and increased promotion/encouragement of the use of public transport. Participants also agreed with the idea of “A cycling city, bicycle friendly lifestyle and environment”. They wanted safer bike tracks, paths around local parks, more encouragement for cycling and walking, and free bikes for everyone. Other ideas that elicited a large number of comments were about traffic, congestion and free moving roadways. Participants wanted less congestion on local roads, more parking at train stations as well as more bus connections to reduce the need to drive to the station, slower and safer streets, grade separations and permanent speed cameras at black spots.


Living Environment Theme Description of LivingKingston2035 Research Purpose This report presents an overview of the like, improve and wish statements from the Living Environment theme. Key topics grouped within this theme are biodiversity and climate change, energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, green wedge, resource use and disposal, water supply and quality. Key wish ideas focus on green wedge, water, air, recycling and energy. Outline of Research

Many forum participants wanted to keep Kingston’s parks, reserves, street trees, market gardens, beaches and local amenities, as well as add more parks and gardens, and turn tip sites into open spaces. One remark characterised the majority of comments, with a succinct “less concentre, more grass”. Others wanted all houses to have rooftop gardens, living walls, water recycling, solar power, water tanks and

Like, Improve, Wish ideas Surveys Kingston’s parks emerge as the overwhelmingly strongest like for survey participants. Related to this participants also like the wetlands; native flora and fauna (birdlife in particular); the beach and Kingston’s waterways; the green wedge and the availability of open space close to residential suburbs. Survey participants also strongly sought more trees and better maintenance of trees and grass. They also want improvements to the appearance of streetscapes; cleanliness of waterways; energy efficiency of buildings; access to community gardens; waste and recycling collection; and education about littering, water efficiency and composting. Participants wish for community gardens, urban forests and vegetable gardens (some suggested using nature strips); support for community sustainability initiatives (solar, wind and stormwater); more parks; and beautiful streetscapes. Website submissions The most commonly liked aspect of Kingston’s living environment was our Green Wedge, open spaces, trees, wetlands, parks, Braeside Park and Karkarook Park. While participants did like our trees, they wanted to see more trees planted at new developments and for beaches and streets to be lined with indigenous and exotic trees. Participants also wished for more free community sustainability workshops, recycled water to be used at foreshore reserves and continued and improved maintenance of our open spaces. Theme-based forums


porous ground surfaces. Participants also wanted strengthened community friends groups, communal gardens and community education. Participants called for improvements in areas such as planting native trees, walkways and links between destinations, the chain of parks, water quality for swimming, Green Wedge protections, as well as environmental education for seniors, promotion of park programs for seniors, and community education to discourage tree removal along the foreshore. In addition, participants wished for free public transport, no more development or population increases, a cap on the number of car licences, increased availability of low cost housing, communal bikes at stations, stormwater collection, Council to generate its own power sustainably, and industrial waste regulations. Other forums in the community Key topics discussed at three community forums held from June to August 2012 were biodiversity and climate change, energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, Green Wedge, resource use and disposal and water supply and quality. A strong theme raised by participants was trees. Participants liked street tree planting and said it had improved. However, they wanted even more trees in residential streets, as well as more trees in general, zero tolerance when street trees are removed and enforced protection of trees on the tree register. Another strong theme related to linking and increasing green, open spaces. Participants wanted the linking of wildlife corridors and nature reserves, small local parks, community gardens on nature strips, greater open space provisions in developments and a completion to the chain of ponds from Karkarook Park in Heatherton to Eel Race Road in Carrum. Furthermore, participants wanted improvements to sustainable energy for housing, Council buildings and businesses. They wished for passive energy buildings with flood resistance and beachside tornado resistance, and access to hydrogen for hydrogen-powered vehicles, including taxis and buses. An ‘out of the box’ comment was made wishing for massive increases in penalties for breaches of town planning regulations and tree desecration.

• This was the top ranked wish with 133 votes.

Feedback on 10 wish statements The 10 wish statements for this theme frequently mentioned water, recycling, green spaces, parks, foreshore and accessibility. Online voting platform Living Environment was well-supported theme; with three wish statements from this area making it into the overall top ten ranked wishes. “Amazing green wedge, natural parkland and open spaces”

• This statement was ranked first overall from all of the 100 wish statements, and was voted for by the highest number of participants (55), representing just under half of the total number of participants. Although it did not quite attract majority support, for those who did support it, they allocated on average 2.5 votes towards it (out of a maximum of 3 possible votes), indicating that those who support this issue are very passionate about it.


“Creatively clean-up and green-up our local business and industrial areas” • Ranked second in this category and second overall with received 101 votes. • 45 participants supported it, which is about 40% of all people who took part in the voting platform.

“Clean water supplies”

• Received 84 votes, putting it third in this category and seventh overall.

Three wish statements from the Living Environment theme made it into the top ten, which is the highest for any theme followed by Free Moving and Accessible City (2 in the top ten), Recreational Spaces (2), Community Support Services (1), Safe and Clean City (1) and Vibrant Local Economy (1). An ‘out of the box’ idea for “Community owned solar farm or wind farms” received 39 votes from 16 supporters, which is 14% of all participants. Interestingly, “Clean air in Kingston” was ranked the lowest in this category with 18 votes from 10 participants. Another noteworthy point is that “Community awareness and education about our living environment” was ranked second lowest in this category with 19 votes from 9 supporters. Therefore, the wish statements that related to actually taking action were ranked higher than education and raising awareness. Area-based forums The two most supported ideas at the area-based forums were “Amazing green wedge, natural parkland and open spaces” and “Clean water and creative water uses”. In regards to the Green Wedge, participants wanted programs to promote use of open spaces and raise awareness of the importance of the Green Wedge. They also wanted well-maintained open spaces and for the Green Wedge to revert to public ownership. Participants also strongly supported improved long-term health of the bay and waterways, water sensitive design, and healthy places to swim and enjoy water sports. Another idea with strong support was “Community awareness and education about our living environment”, which participants said was a good idea for people of all ages and backgrounds. They also wanted more promotion of existing programs and additional clean up days. Finally, “Beautiful leafy suburbs” received three ticks of support and a great deal of comments from participants who wanted rooftop gardens, more trees, encouragement of planting native trees and more tree planting days.


Recreational Spaces Description of LivingKingston2035 Research Purpose This report presents an overview of the like, improve and wish statements from the Recreational Spaces theme. Key topics grouped within this theme are beaches, foreshore, gardens, open space, parks, playgrounds, reserves, sporting facilities and waterways. Key wish ideas focus on accessible parks and recreational spaces, the beach, playgrounds and community facilities. Outline of Research Like, Improve, Wish ideas Surveys Overwhelmingly the most likes featured in this category were Kingston’s beaches. Survey respondents also expressed their liking of Kingston’s playgrounds, skate parks, sports facilities, footy/soccer grounds and swimming pools. There were much fewer improve ideas than like ideas for this theme, indicating that this is an area the community is quite happy with. Improve ideas included more dedicated (fenced) children’s spaces, and dog spaces; a diving board/waterslide at Waves; bigger and better skate parks; more shading over play areas; improved toilet and change facilities at sports grounds; and a swimming pool in the South ward. Wish ideas were also much fewer than like ideas for this theme. Some ideas included a theme park and trampoline park; a sports stadium in Dingley area; a new public golf course; facilities for hockey, horse riding, motorbike riding, ice skating and rock climbing; however the majority of responses were ‘keep doing what you are doing’ in relations to parks, beaches and sports facilities. Website submissions The most commonly liked aspects of Kingston’s recreational spaces were our beaches, parks, sporting facilities, playgrounds and open spaces. Dales Park was a highly recurrent theme in the website submissions. Participants wanted improved facilities at Dales Park for the Kingston Netball Association. The quality and number of netball courts, car parking, accessibility and Council’s level of investment in the facility were all frequently mentioned as needing improvement. This issue in particular received among the largest number of comments for all website submissions. There were also a number of comments calling for more basketball facilities. Participants also wanted improvements in other areas, such as sporting ground lighting, drinking fountains at sporting facilities, maintenance of recreational spaces and free leisure centre membership for residents aged over 65 years.


Other participants wished for more skate parks, an increase in parkland and multipurpose sports stadiums. Theme-based forums Many forum participants wanted to keep our existing parks, reserves, leisure centres, pathways, sporting facilities, dog off-lead walking areas, wetlands, beaches and golf courses, as well as wanting even more reserves, pockets of smaller reserves and open spaces. They wanted to improve the accessibility and maintenance of parks and protection from weather at community events. Participants also wanted ratepayers to be provided with a free visit to Council leisure centres, more pools, better gym facilities, inclusive sporting opportunities and more skate parks. Comments were also made around participants wishing for regional sporting facilities, sporting precincts, a new netball pavilion at Dales Park, preserving green spaces, keeping and increasing local playgrounds and having more dog-free beaches. Other forums in the community Key topics discussed were beaches, foreshore, gardens, open space, parks, playgrounds, reserves, sporting facilities and waterways. Sporting, recreational and community facilities that participants liked were Kingston’s exercise areas, skate parks, Life Saving Clubs, sailing clubs, swimming pools, bike paths, walking tracks, golf courses, bowls clubs and sports facilities in general. However, participants wanted more and improved recreational facilities. Some wished for an Olympic-sized swimming pool near Chelsea, an affordable gym, improved road cycling, an affordable equestrian centre and a “decent” hockey field. Parks were also common theme, with participants liking Kingston’s park spaces, and specific parks such as Namatjira Park in Clayton South, Bicentennial Park and Victory Park in Chelsea, and Mary Bell Park in Bonbeach. Although, participants said improvements were needed to small parks and wildlife corridors. Participants also liked off-leash dog areas but wanted Council to keep encouraging responsible dog ownership so that owners are mindful of the importance on- and off-leash areas. Issues with accessible playgrounds were also mentioned. Improvements were wanted with the system of borrowing a key from libraries to access the liberty swing for people with a disability. In addition, a comment was made that more care should be taken to ensure that playground equipment complies with requirements and standards, and more consideration given to playground users with a disability.

• Ranked fifth overall with 89 votes and 39 supporters, which is about a third of all participants.

Feedback on 10 wish statements The 10 wish statements for this theme frequently mentioned parks, recreational spaces, community facilities, accessible activities, beaches and sports. Online voting platform Recreational Spaces was well-supported theme; with two wish statements from this area making it into the overall top ten ranked wishes. For this theme, the top ranked wish ideas were: “Innovative playgrounds and play areas for all ages”


• This wish also received six comments, which is the equal highest number of comments for any statement (“Excellent quality roadways, footpaths and trails” in the theme Free Moving and Accessible City also received six comments). The comments for this statement said that playgrounds are important and need to be kept for the future, 13 to 18 year olds need play areas to cater for them in the Mordialloc/Parkdale area, an Art space community garden is wanted in Patterson Lakes, dog off-leash areas should be not be in the same space as playgrounds and more playgrounds are needed in Carrum near the station and Patterson River.

“Excellent recreational facilities to showcase our beaches”

• Received 74 votes and ranked tenth overall, with 32 supporters – 28% of total participants. “Affordable recreation and leisure options”

• Received 69 votes. One comment was made for this wish statement, saying it would be great if these pools and facilities were made more accessible.

Eight new wish ideas were suggested for this theme, which is the highest number of suggested ideas for all 10 of the themes. Other themes received two new wish ideas and some received one or none. The top ranked new wish idea for was a “Jet ski free zone (Gnotuk Avenue)”, which received 34 votes from 13 participants – about 11% of all people who took part in the online voting platform. This idea received more votes than four of the wish statements chosen for this theme by Council. Other new wish ideas were about water play, removing dog off-leash areas from children’s recreation areas, no jet ski launch for all of Kingston, restricting jet skit operations to certain hours of the day, fixing Dales Park, investing in sporting facilities, and showers at our beaches. Area-based forums The ideas with the most support related to open spaces, regional sporting facilities, excellent recreational facilities, safe community spaces, and clean, inviting places. Participants made a great deal of comments in relation to the idea of “Access to beautiful natural parkland and open spaces”. These comments included the need for a public golf course, more sporting facilities in Aspendale Gardens and Waterways, more use of the Green Wedge and integrated bike trails. There was also support for regional sporting precincts, including indoor netball and basketball stadiums, more soccer and football ovals, and ensuring that trees and playgrounds are retained in sporting precincts. The idea of “Safe and accessible community spaces” was also well supported and drew feedback on the need for more lighting on streets so that people can use them after dark, safe places for young people to recreate and organised activities for women.


Safe and Clean City Description of LivingKingston2035 Research Purpose This report presents an overview of the like, improve and wish statements from the Safe and Clean City theme. Key topics grouped within this theme are appearance of public places, animals, community safety, emergency services, rubbish and waste. Key wish ideas focus on rubbish, recycling, waterways, and public behaviour. Outline of Research Like, Improve, Wish ideas Surveys Some survey participants said that they like how Kingston is quiet, clean and safe (most of the time), with little graffiti compared to other areas; many liked the dog off-leash areas and likes the frequency and quality of rubbish collection, beach cleaning and street sweeping. Interestingly, many more participants wanted improvements in these areas such as cleaning up graffiti (particularly along train lines), rubbish collection in parks and more responsible dog owners (collecting poo and restraining dangerous dogs). Participants also want to improve lighting and security cameras (particularly shops and train stations); have more hard rubbish collections, more bins and better patrolling for litterers; and less speeding/hoon drivers. Strong support was expressed for reducing tip odours. Wish ideas include banning smoking and drinking in public, more animal friendly places and an animal shelter; no vandalism and graffiti; clean beaches; better policing and patrolling and greater penalties; manned railway stations; and an overall safe and happy environment for families. Website submissions Dogs were the most frequently mentioned issue in the website submissions for “Safe and Clean City”. Participants like the dog off-leash areas and foreshore dog regulations. However, a significant number of comments called for improvements in this area. Many wanted fully enclosed dog parks, more off-leash areas, increased accessibility for dogs on the foreshore and community education on dog ownership. The most mentioned improvement in relation to dogs was a call for more patrolling and enforcement by local laws officers for dog owners not effectively controlling their animals, not picking up droppings and walking dogs off-leash in areas where it is not permitted. No participants liked Council’s hard rubbish collections, but some did want Kingston to switch to ‘on call’ hard rubbish collection services. Two comments were made about liking our clean streets, although many more comments were made about issues with litter, dumped mattresses and household bin sizes. Participants also wanted more public bins in playgrounds, along streets and across Kingston in general.


Theme-based forums At the theme-based forums, participants liked Kingston’s beaches, Life Saving Clubs and sailing clubs. They also liked that our parks are well kept and that Kingston has great volunteers and ‘friends of’ groups who help look after the parks. The strongest theme to emerge from this forum was littering, rubbish and landfills. Many comments were made that litter, recycling and landfill issues need to be improved. Participants also wanted increased hard rubbish collections, better street sweeping, more options for disposing old mattresses, CCTV cameras at known litter dumping areas, more bins at beaches and the promotion of clean up days and related activities. Participants also wanted a greater police presence in Kingston, especially in summer and at holiday times. Other forums in the community Key topics discussed were the appearance of public places, animals, community safety, emergency services, rubbish and waste. The issue mentioned the most in these community forums related to improving the perception of safety in the municipality. Participants wanted CCTV cameras in shopping strip areas and near beaches, as well as more action, enforcement and proactive patrolling from local laws officers. While some participants liked that Kingston is dog-friendly and permits dogs on beaches at certain times of the day, they also wanted Council to be more stringent toward taking control of and identifying dangerous dogs. Participants also thought graffiti was well managed, but wished for greater penalties for offenders. The collection of waste and education of issues was also something that participants liked; however there were also many who wished for better recycling options, more public rubbish bins, a consistent renewal of bins and for everything to be recycled or biodegradable.

• 102 votes

Feedback on 10 wish statements The 10 wish statements for this theme frequently mentioned beach bins, recycling facilities, creating a clean community, deterring littering and dumping and education. Online voting platform The Safe and Clean City theme had one wish statement make it into the overall top ten ranked wishes. “Safe, clean and accessible parks and public spaces”

• This statement was ranked third overall and 40 supported voted for it, which is about a 35% of all participants. Those who supported this wish idea allocated, on average, 2.5 towards it. A maximum of 3 votes can be allocated to each individual wish statement, so an average of 2.5 votes indicates that those who support this issue feel strongly about it.

“Everyone feels safe and has quick access to emergency services when needed”

• Ranked second in this category with 74 votes from 29 participants – 25% of all participants “Beautiful, clean and safe waterways and foreshore”


• 61 votes from 27 supporters – 23% of all participants. The wish statement with the most comments in this theme was “Close and transform our landfill operations and tip facilities”, which received two comments. One comment for this wish, which was ranked fifth in its category, said that better education was needed for waste management and more support for recycling. In the other comment, the participant said they would have allocated all 50 votes to this statement if that were possible. The commenter believed landfill operations should not be in highly populated residential areas and that existing facilities should be closed down. It is interesting to note that despite a great deal of community and media interest during 2012 in local landfills, particularly offensive odours from landfills, this wish did not rank highly in the online voting platform. One new wish idea was suggested for this theme, which called for a pedestrian crossing on Scotch Parade for residents walking to Bicentennial Park. This wish idea received three votes from one participant. Area-based forums The ideas with the most ticks of support were “Safe, clean and accessible parks and open spaces”, “Everyone feels safe and has quick access to emergency services when needed” and an ‘out of the box’ idea to “Create an adult charter”. While these ideas had the most support, they were not the ones that elicited the most number of comments. Ideas with the most comments were “Safe playing and socialising spaces for dogs and responsible animal ownership” and “Close and transform our landfill operations and tip facilities”. Participants liked the idea of “Safe, clean and accessible parks and public spaces” and commented that they help to keep people healthy and need to increase as the population grows. The highest number of comments was made for “Safe playing and socialising spaces for dogs and responsible animal ownership”. Participants felt that dogs were a vital community need for people’s mental and physical health and that enclosed dog off-leash parks were needed. Others wanted cat curfews to be enforced, no compulsory de-sexing, free dog pooh dispenser bags across Kingston similar to the service in Glen Eira, and more community education for animal owners. They also wanted dog owners to keep their animals under control and on leashes, especially if the dogs were considered a dangerous or restricted breed. Another supported idea was “Everyone feels safe and has quick access to emergency services when needed”. Participants wanted grade separations to improve vehicle movement, a visible police presence in the community and incentives for people to walk or use public transport. In addition, participants strongly supported the closing of local landfills and said that tip odours are an issue in residential areas.


Vibrant Local Economy Description of LivingKingston2035 Research Purpose This report presents an overview of the like, improve and wish statements from the Vibrant Local Economy theme. Key topics grouped within this theme are business networks, buying locally, economic sustainability, employment, shopping and markets. Key wish ideas focus on more shopping opportunities, local employment, public transport, markets, outdoor trading, broadband access and environmental sustainability. Outline of Research Like, Improve, Wish ideas Surveys The majority of likes coming from survey submissions were in relation to shopping in Kingston. Participants liked that the municipality has lots of shopping centres and a good mix of shops, as well as easy access to them. Southland Shopping Centre was strongly liked by participants and mention was also made to Chelsea shopping centre and the variety of shops in Dingley. This was followed by liking our cafes and restaurants. Participants also liked Kingston’s farmers’ markets, the DFO, and the many and varied businesses in our City. When it came to improvements, the survey submissions again had a heavy focus on shopping. Participants wanted more shops and a greater variety of businesses. Some listed the specific types of shops they wanted, such as those selling books, lollies, children’s pieces, clothes, takeaway food, and hobby items. Other submissions were focused around the night life in Kingston. Many wanted longer trading hours, places to go at night, more bars and restaurants, entertainment for families, a livelier atmosphere and more cafes. Car parking was also seen as limiting shopping opportunities. Submitters wanted more car parking and fewer time limits for parking around shops. There were also submissions regarding cleaning up and beautifying local shopping strips and encouraging manufacturing with business incentives. Wishes also related to shopping opportunities. The majority of survey wish submissions related to participants wanting more and bigger shopping centres. This wish was followed by participants wanting more cafes, restaurants, clubs and bars. The appearance of local shopping strips also emerged as an issue, with many wanting the shops to be revitalised and improved. One suggested that Council should supply grants to landlords to improve shopfronts and many others specifically called for Dingley Village to be rejuvenated. Other wishes were for more local jobs and small businesses, as well as an increase in markets and community festivals.


Website submissions Participants like the local options for shopping and dining including Kingston’s strip shopping centres, village shopping, Southland and the farmers’ markets. They also liked Kingston’s cafes and pubs, with particular mention made to Doyle’s and the kiosk at Mentone Life Saving club. Kingston’s diversity of industries and variety of shops was also well-supported in the website submissions. While many liked Kingston’s shopping strips, they believed there was room for improvement in the appearance of them and the availability of car parking. Participants also wanted more live music venues, more restaurants and bars in Cheltenham, and for Southland to be more teenage-friendly. A strong theme that emerged from the wishes submitted online was the support for local shopping precincts and strip shopping. Participants wished to retain and revitalise local strip shops and for a new shopping precinct in Chelsea Heights. Others wanted more markets, retail outlets and public toilets. There was also a call for more trees and a greater setback for future developments, including shopfronts. Theme-based forums Many of the comments made at the Vibrant Local Economy Theme-based forum were not directly relevant to the theme itself. Nonetheless, discussion was not limited to any particular topics. Participants liked Council’s events, services and facilities such as festivals, libraries, home and community care, neighbourhood houses, childcare and Village Committees. They also liked the large proportion of people who live and work in Kingston, the mix of industries, strip shops, and niche, sustainable industry sectors. Issues emerging that participants wanted improved include accessible services, community consultation, Village Committee membership and consultation, safer walkways, more funding for community care, fitness options, public transport systems and a cleaner environment. Wishes included public transport that keeps up with population changes, coordinated transportation systems, keeping young people connected, supporting locals in need rather than offering overseas aid, encouraging volunteering, and strengthening links with research bodies and institutions. Other forums in the community Key topics discussed were business networks, buying locally, digital connectivity, economic sustainability, employment and markets. Participants liked Kingston’s variety of shops, local shopping precincts and small businesses, local job opportunities and the industrial areas. Improvements were wanted to the level of support offered by Council to local businesses. Participants want Council to help local businesses work together, support business owners and help them grow their skills base, engage young people and encourage large employers to come to Kingston. Access to public transport for workers was also an issue for some. Participants wished for more local jobs, adequate public transport and local infrastructure, broadband access, support for business redevelopment and maintaining a local feel to shopping precincts. A theme emerging from these forums was environmental sustainability for local businesses including the wish for water re-use programs, sustainable energy sources and adequate planning for climate change.


• 94 votes

Feedback on 10 wish statements The 10 wish statements for this theme frequently mentioned local employment, learning opportunities, industrial areas, business support services, public transport, a diverse mix of businesses and Kingston as a tourist destination. Online voting platform The Vibrant Local Economy theme had one wish statement make it into the overall top ten ranked wishes. “A lively market atmosphere”

• This statement was ranked first in this theme and eighth overall with 43 people supporting it, which is about a 37% of all participants.

“Vibrant and colourful mix of diver retail centres and spaces”

• Ranked second in this category with 49 votes from 19 participants – 16% of all participants “Lots of local employment and skills development opportunities”

• Voted third in this category with 42 votes from 18 supporters – 15% of all participants. Interestingly, Vibrant Local Economy is the only theme where no comments were left for any of the wish statements. In addition, “Premier tourist destination for festivals and events” was ranked ninth in this category with 13 votes from 6 supporters – about 5% of all participants. One new wish idea was suggested, which was “Local jobs”, which received one vote from one supporter. Area-based forums The two ideas with the most support were “A lively market atmosphere” and “Premier tourist destination for festivals and events”. In regards to the market atmosphere, participants said that food is a real strength in Kingston and that supporting markets would in turn support local employment and local producers. In relation to Kingston’s festivals and events, participants believed our festivals attract returning tourists, showcase our diverse community, educate the community about services and facilities available, make residents proud of living in Kingston and improve liveability. Although, some commented that major events bring noise and traffic disturbance and that Kingston needs a public golf course. The idea that generated the most feedback was “Vibrant and colourful mix of diverse retail centres and spaces”. Participants said appealing streets encourage people to visit and shop locally and that they create a sense of community among residents. Some mentioned that Christmas decorations and street trees need to be improved and that more fresh food shops are needed. No new ideas were suggested for Vibrant Local Economy in the area-based forums.


Feedback on WISH statements Description of LivingKingston2035 Research Purpose This report describes the feedback received on Living Kingston 2035 WISH ideas derived through the second series of community forums and through the website’s online voting platform. Data Source Six area based community forums were held in late December 2012 in venues across all wards. 96 community members attended the forums and provided feedback on broad statements on ten themes. The forums were facilitated by external consultants and were staged during various times during the week and on weekends. The online voting platform was facilitated on the Living Kingston website and was open for a period of one month. Participants were able to vote on the same broad statements (‘ideas’) on ten themes as were used at the Community Forums. Each participant had provision to allocate up to 50 votes to ideas comment on ideas; and/or submit new ideas. Participants were able to allocate up to 3 votes per idea. Comments and new ideas were offered by 115 participants, with a total of 4,101 votes allocated, 41 comments received and 16 new ideas entered. Outline of Research Arts, Culture and Heritage The highest number of votes for the arts, culture and heritage theme was allocated to the creation of a waterfront events centre or world class arts and cultural hub. This was validated by community forums participants, who were supportive of the opportunity to create contemporary exhibition spaces, but conscious of existing performing arts venues and events in neighbouring municipalities. Access to an excellent range of festivals in the community was voted as the second highest supported arts, culture and heritage idea, also receiving overwhelming support at the community forums, where participants noted the significant roles festivals play in community connectedness; celebrating multiculturalism and diversity; community education; and showcasing local areas. Online and Community Forum participants were indicated support for enjoying public art in our community spaces and were complimentary of existing public art programs, noting the significance it plays in encouraging a sense of ownership and pride. Built Environment 94 votes were received for the WISH statement ‘anticipate population and environment changes and create infrastructure that will meet emerging needs’. Online participants noted that existing infrastructure is at capacity and the community needs to be proactive in making sure we can meet the needs to tomorrow. Participants at the community forums were divided in their stance on higher density development to meet the needs of an increasing population, with some participants attributing development to increasing street parking congestion and rubbish; while others identified the need for more apartment style living within Kingston to balance a diversity of people’s housing needs.


Online and Community Forum participants were strongly supportive preserving our green and open spaces. Overwhelming support for this WISH idea was received at the Community Forums, with participants encouraging the preservation and enhanced utilization of existing green wedge spaces for future generations. Participants also advocated for higher density housing to be balanced with open spaces such as community gardens and large parks. Community and Support Services Support for positive ageing within our community was strongly supported through the two means of data collection. Forum participants recognised the need to support the ageing population as beneficial to the wider population. Benefits derived from linking the ageing population with the broader community through working in schools and with different generations were also identified as opportunities to enhance positive ageing. The second highest voted WISH idea in the community and support services theme was ‘affordable and accessible support services for young people, families and vulnerable community members’. Community forum participants identified the need for affordable ‘one stop shop’ support service for all stages of life, genders, and life stages and circumstances, including a need to support the homeless, new parents and persons living alone. Connected and Learning Communities The highest voted statement within this theme was ‘access to a range of life-long learning options that are responsive to our needs.’ Participants at the community forums supported the idea of providing all community members life-long learning opportunities; promoting links between school aged children and local industry; utilising existing learning facilities in the community; and developing shared use community hubs to facilitate life-long learning. Participants encouraged supporting life-long learning by coordinating and connecting volunteers in the community, with community forum participants identifying the need to resource, support and mentor volunteers in the community. A community with access to new and emerging technologies was voted as the second highest supported theme, with Community Forum participants identifying that keeping up to date with changing technology is imperative for knowledge expansion and to encourage strong community connections. Council Operations Online voters indicated that Council rate charges are reasonable and that funds are carefully spent was highest priority regarding Council operations, with community forum participants identifying their desire for Kingston to remain an affordable place to live, qualified by a request for Council to operate within its means through review Council rates, as well as increased community consultation and fit for purpose facilities. Online participants raised the idea of discounts on Council rates for pensioners. Council’s policies, processes and financial decisions are progressive, support the local economy and have zero-waste environment was the second highest voted statement within the Council Operations theme. Community Forum participants indicated they would like to see Council undertake more sustainable processes and educate residents about recycling and zero-waste. Community Forum participants showed strong support for Council encouraging as sense of civic pride and showcasing Kingston’s unique features, indicating this could be achieved through use of new technology.


Free Moving and Accessible City The highest voted WISH idea was ‘manage traffic flows to minimize congestion and delays’ qualified by Community Forum participants overwhelmingly suggestion underground rail crossings, slower speed limits and permanent speed cameras. Further, Community Forum participants strongly supported the idea of free moving motorways and residential streets, qualified by comments regarding the need to move parked cars off narrow streets, especially near train stations by providing frequent and well connected bus services between residential areas and stations. Online voting and Community Forum participants both demonstrated strong support for a cycling city, with bicycle friendly lifestyle and environment as well as safe walkways for pedestrians to move around Kingston. Community forum participants suggested increasing the number of bike lanes and encouraging increased physical activity in the community to reduce car usage and encourage community connections. Living Environment Online voting and community forum participants both showed overwhelming support for ‘amazing green wedge, natural parkland and open spaces.’ Community Forum participants qualified this by suggesting increased parklands in the green wedge to ensure ongoing maintenance and encourage healthy communities through promoting public spaces, increased knowledge and community involvement. The second highest voted statement was ‘creatively clean-up and green-up our local businesses and industrial areas.’ Community Forum participants also strongly supported this statement, opting for an organic approach to this, through encouraging businesses to undertake landscaping and tree planting; placing street power lines underground; and continuing with public art at railway stations. Community Forum participants strongly supported clean water supplies and creative water uses; embracing the reduce-reuse-recycle concept and zero waste targets through offering free tip vouchers with council rates; and beautifying leafy suburbs by encouraging tree planting. Recreational Spaces The highest voted statement in this theme was ‘innovative playgrounds and play areas for all ages’. Community Forum participants encouraged the fenced park areas kept separate from off leash dog spaces, with shade trees to promote a healthy lifestyle. Online voters also commented that parks should be distributed throughout Kingston, with arts spaces and facilities that cater for all ages. Strong support was shown for excellent recreational facilities to showcase our beaches through online voting and at the Community Forums, with participants suggesting more parking at beaches, a bay trail for cyclists, tea room facilities in parks and a 24 hour designated dog beach. Strong support was shown for affordable recreation and leisure options qualified by numerous requests for a pool in the South Ward and a social hub providing recreation opportunities for all ages. Safe and Clean City The highest voted WISH idea is for ‘safe, clean and accessible parks and public spaces’ and participants at the Community Forums opting for preserving parks, creating safe and inviting public spaces through a greater police presence and increased lighting. Rail crossing and a lack of police presence were identified by Community Forum participants as the greatest hindrance to people feeling safe and having quick access to emergency services when needed. Community Forum participants also strongly advocated for enclosed dedicated off-leash areas for dogs and the enforcement of cat curfews.


Vibrant Local Economy Online voting participants strongly supported the WISH idea of a lively market atmosphere, with Community Forum participants advocating for farmers markets to encourage community interaction, support local producers and to celebrate diversity. Diversity was also well supported by online voting and Community Forum participants in terms of a vibrant and colourful mix of retail centers and spaces. Community Forum participants suggested invigorating retail spaces with more fresh food shops, outdoor seating, greenery, pop up stores, improved streetscapes, beautification, events and consultation with developers. Community Forum participants also advocated for the supporting grassroots economic activities and local businesses through creating local employment, support and training, partnerships with TAFEs and support and advice services.


Observations and reflections of Community Vision Reference Panel Description of LivingKingston2035 Research Purpose This report presents the reflections and interpretations of the Community Vision Reference Panel with regard to the Living Kingston 2035 research data, particularly the community feedback on the 100 broad WISH statements. The report captures Reference Panel discussions throughout the year, particularly the meeting held on Wednesday 16 January 2013, following the consideration of the voting, comments and new ideas received through the online voting platform and the six community forums held in November 2013. Background to the report The Community Vision Reference Panel comprises 10 appointed community members, 10 appointed Council Officers from key service delivery areas and project support from the Organisational Development and Governance Division. The Panel is chaired by the Mayor of the day (Cr. Brownlees in 2011, Cr. Ronke in 2011/12 and Cr. Brownlees in 2012/13). At the Ordinary Council Meeting held in November 2012, Council resolved to also appoint Cr. Gledhill and Cr. West to the Reference Panel. Reference Panel members have unique insights into the visioning processes, consultation approaches and data collected. Considering their views is important for a number of reasons. Reference Panel members have: • Played a key role in overseeing and guiding the Living Kingston 2035 project • Been involved in decision-making about the visioning and consultation processes • Considered the data in the form of research reports as they have become available • Monitored community participation levels on a monthly basis • Had face-to-face interactions with the community at the theme-based and area-based forums • Assisted with surveying activities within the community • Acted as Project Ambassadors in a variety of formal community meetings and informal discussions


Key observations identified by the Reference Panel – unprompted This first section of the report presents the Panel’s unprompted observations of the research which relate to specific points or topics: • Transport (in general and including public transport):

it was noted that there was particularly strong input about creating a ‘bicycle friendly city’. The responses relating to this point were much stronger than input that has been received in the past. It was also noted that the community sees Council playing a key role in influencing transport issues over which it does not have direct responsibility.

• Our beaches:

it was evident that responses about the beach and our beaches consistently emerged throughout the data sets. References to beaches were apparent in the LIKE, IMPROVE and WISH categories of responses. While comments relating to the beach were frequently mentioned by residents, comments were also received from many non-Kingston residents who participated in the consultation.

• Open spaces and green wedge:

it was noted that a variety of aspects were raised for this topic including making sure that open spaces are maintained and a desire to better showcase Kingston’s open spaces. This led to an observation that there is an overall sense that Kingston’s green wedge and open spaces are very important to the community and that there are a range of views as to whether these spaces are currently underutilised and potential future uses.

• Community:

Key observations identified by the Reference Panel – during theme-by-theme discussion This second section of the report presents the Reference Panel’s observations of the research offered during the theme-by-theme discussion led by Robyn Cochrane. Reference Panel members were asked to review the votes and feedback provided by the community on the 100 broad WISH statements and for general comments on the feedback as well as any noteworthy surprise or gaps. The following observations were offered:

observations were made about the overwhelming emergence of the word ‘community’ within the responses sorted by theme and participation option (online, survey and forums). It was noted that the level of support for the ‘creation of a lively market atmosphere’ was much stronger than input that has been received in the past. This was interpreted as further reinforcement of the broader theme around building local communities.

• Five WISH statements receiving strong community support online and at forums:o “Amazing green wedge, natural parkland and open spaces” received the highest number of

online votes (133) and one online comment as well as 14 comments and seven ticks of support at the forums

it was noted that:

o “Manage traffic flows to minimise congestion and delays” received 115 online votes and three online comments, eight comments and two ticks of support at the forums

o “A cycling city, bicycle friendly lifestyle and environment” received 113 online votes and one online comment as well as 13 comments at the forums

o “Safe, clean and accessible parks and public spaces” received 102 online votes and one online comment as well as eight comments and three ticks of support at the forums

o “Creatively clean-up and green-up our local business and industrial areas” received 101 online votes as well as 10 comments and two ticks of support at the forums


• Connecting the arts, festivals and foreshore:

discussion centred on the support for a waterfront arts and events hub and whether that demonstrates a desire for Kingston’s arts hub to be less focussed on Moorabbin and spread more widely throughout the municipality. The strong support for the continuation of free festivals and events for the community was also noted. The tension surrounding additional use of the foreshore for community events with managing the impact of the associated parking and patron behaviours which could impact on local residents was noted.

• Fear of over-development:

the Reference Panel observed strong community views around the preference of not having too much development. Further, if there is to be development, the emphasis shifted to ensuring there is sufficient local infrastructure to accommodate additional car parking and traffic movement, sewerage needs as well as open space to support the increased housing density and population. It was noted that affordable housing did not come through as strongly as anticipated in discussions around housing density and diversity of housing stock, but these were essential issues that need to be addressed in the vision, particularly the need to maximise the use of space through hubs with transport and appropriate housing. Of particular note was the strong desire from the community to have a real voice to influence planning decisions.

• Open space:

it was noted that some community members perceive that increased development is actually resulting in a loss of open space. In particular the Reference Panel noted strong feedback about the importance of having small localised parks for children, older people and people with dogs, rather than developing only larger area or regional-based parks and reserves.

• Support services for various community segments and organisations:

observations were made about the strong interest in providing tailored support services for the various segments of the community, particularly older people, families, young people and vulnerable community members. The Reference Panel also noted the call for a strong and proactive approach to support community organisations, clubs and groups, in recognition of their vital role as key providers of community support services and creating strong community connections as well as the increasing governance and compliance requirements surrounding organised community groups.

• Libraries:

a very strong recognition of Kingston’s libraries was noted in data. Libraries are regarded as important places where the community can connect and learn both now and into the future.

• Accessing and connecting with services:

the Reference Panel commented on the resounding call for an easy way for people to identify and locate services, organisations and events within their local area. There appears to be great interest in Council supporting the provision of a centralised search resource to promote and/or find local activities.

• Sustainable funding sources for services:

a tension between the community’s wish for affordable and free service provision and their desire for Council rate charges to stay low was evident. This suggests a need to investigate alternate funding sources for service provision.

• Local identity:

the Reference Panel noted the importance of local suburbs and the community’s connection with their suburb and desire to identify with their suburb within the large geographical area of Kingston. For example, this could be through well-positioned promotional signage at suburb entry and exit points.

• Cleaning up Kingston: tensions were observed surrounding the close proximity of some residential and industrial areas. There was strong community support for cleaning up local industrial areas and this was regarded as an indication of the community’s overall desire for a cleaner and greener municipality.


• Playgrounds and recreational spaces:

the work that Council is currently undertaking around playgrounds, recreational facilities and regional sports precincts was found to be in line with the community’s wishes and should be continued.

• Community safety:

it was noted that the community consistently offered strong views throughout the data sets about safety. A strong desire was voiced for an increase in foot patrols to combat issues of rubbish, graffiti, parking, dogs and anti-social behaviour, particularly in shopping strips, railway stations and the beach.

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