Trees are vital community assets which Council is committed to protecting

Trees play a key role in creating a vibrant, healthy, and sustainable urban environment and offer a wide range of environmental, social and economic benefits, including:

  • cleaner air and water, reduced urban heat, and improved stormwater management
  • greater biodiversity with more habitats for wildlife
  • enhanced neighbourhood character and aesthetics
  • higher property values with lower energy costs.

Beyond these benefits, trees also improve our mental and physical health, encourage outdoor activity, and help build stronger, more connected communities.

Draft Tree Management Policy and Guidelines

We know residents value trees and green spaces in our municipality. The draft Tree Management Policy reflects those values by supporting long-term planning, best-practice tree care, and informed decision-making.

The draft Policy and supporting Guidelines will guide Council on how we care for trees on public land – ensuring consistent decisions about planting, pruning, maintenance, and removals. These two documents will ensure that Council is consistent in its decision making, transparent regarding its processes and is ultimately focused on achieving is target of 20% canopy cover by 2040.

The draft Policy and supporting Guidelines will also help us deliver the goals of our Urban Forest Strategy 2018, to help build resilience to climate change and urban heat.

Share your comments on the draft Tree Management Policy and Guidelines via the form below.

Feedback closes midnight Sunday 19 October 2025.