The City of Onkaparinga Council met on Tuesday 21 July – below are some of the key outcomes.
Splash pad approved for Noarlunga Aquatic Centre
A new outdoor splash pad will be built as part of the Noarlunga Aquatic Centre redevelopment, following Council’s decision to approve the project.
The splash pad will provide a fun, inclusive outdoor water play space for children, families and people of all abilities to enjoy.
The refurbished aquatic centre is on track to reopen in November 2026; however the splash pad will be delivered as a separate project after opening.
The splash pad will be funded through forecast savings identified within the existing aquatic centre refurbishment budget, and will not require additional rate funding. The additional savings were thanks to a competitive tender result and additional Australian Government funding.
Further design work, community engagement and planning will take place before construction begins in 2027.
The approximately $16.9 million broader Noarlunga Aquatic Centre refurbishment is jointly funded by the council and the Australian Government through the Thriving Suburbs Program and Community Energy Upgrade Fund.
Council acknowledges the support of the Honourable Amanda Rishworth MP in securing this important investment for the community.
The splash pad will be a fantastic addition to the centre, creating another reason for families to visit and enjoy this important community facility.
Reviewing council-owned land
Council considered 3 proposals to begin the process of revoking the community land classification for portions of council-owned land at:
- Roopena Street, O’Sullivan Beach
- Hopkins Court, Woodcroft
- Lurline Boulevard, Sellicks Beach.
Revocation is a formal process that allows Council to consider whether land should continue to be classified as community land or whether another use should be explored.
The process includes community consultation and approval from the Minister for Local Government before any potential sale can occur.
If land is ultimately sold, proceeds could be reinvested into projects that provide direct community benefit, such as footpaths, reserve upgrades, building renewals and other infrastructure priorities.
For example, if the Lurline Boulevard land is sold, it would support the Country Fire Service (CFS) to relocate and build a larger facility, helping volunteers better protect the community.
Supporting local sport
Council received an update on a trial of a new process for managing sporting club enquiries.
The trial has made it easier and clearer for sporting clubs to know where to direct their questions and requests, while helping council staff respond more efficiently.
The improved process supports stronger relationships with local clubs and helps the council deliver a better service experience for one of the many groups that contribute to active and connected communities.
Supporting local business and events
Council discussed the future approach for the Beachside Food and Wine Festival, following a successful 2026 event that attracted a record crowd.
Feedback from participating businesses was positive, with many highlighting the benefits of increased visitation and exposure.
Council also heard feedback about opportunities to improve event operations, which will help shape planning for future festivals.
Events such as Beachside are one of the ways the council supports the local economy, bringing people into the region and providing opportunities for local businesses to showcase what they offer.
Better ways to engage with the community
Council approved a new Community Engagement Framework and Policy, which will guide how the City of Onkaparinga involves the community in decisions, projects and initiatives.
The updated approach follows community feedback and introduces improvements to ensure engagement is clear, inclusive, respectful and transparent.
Community input plays an important role in helping shape the council’s future policies, projects and services, and these changes will help ensure people have meaningful opportunities to participate.
The new Framework and Policy will be available on the council’s website later this week.
Community safety
Council heard from Senior Constable Jason Thiele from SA Police about the safe use of e-bikes and personal mobility devices.
Council has been advocating for some time for a consistent, state-led approach to improve safety and clarity around these devices.
The council continue working with SA Police, the Department for Infrastructure and Transport and the Local Government Association to support improved outcomes for the community.
More information
As always, you can delve further into meeting outcomes – including other topics considered at the July meeting – via the agenda, full meeting recording and the minutes at onkaparingacity.com from Thursday.
Onkaparinga Now’s Council meeting updates are published following ordinary – and some special – Council meetings, providing a broad overview of some of the key outcomes.
Not all Council decisions will be mentioned each month due to the size and scope of the meeting agendas.
You can find information about attending Council meetings, raising concerns through petitions and deputations, and other ways to participate in Council decision-making on the council website.