NSW · Inner-city Sydney · Local council, made simple
Inner West Council
Inner-city Sydney's Inner West — around 190,900 people across Balmain, Leichhardt, Ashfield, Marrickville and Newtown, one of the smallest and most densely populated council areas in NSW. Formed in 2016 from the Ashfield, Leichhardt and Marrickville councils, it runs the local services you use every week — a full weekly FOGO waste service, roads, libraries, parks, development — and sets your rates. Here's the snapshot, then the stuff that affects your week.
Everyday essentials
The things people actually need from the council — fast.
Get to know your council
The basics, in one tap — open any card for key facts and a link to the official source.
This year's rate rise, how it compares across NSW, and why bills differ.
2025–26 rate peg: 3.7%
Open →Budget & financesHow financially healthy the council is, measured against official benchmarks.
Meets 6 of 9 OLG financial benchmarks
Open →Crime & safetyInner West's recorded crime rates, side by side with the NSW average.
10 of 12 major offences below the NSW rate
Open →Mayor & councillorsWho represents you, by ward — and where to read their official profiles.
Mayor: Darcy Byrne (Labor)
Open →Elections & votingWhen the next council election is, and how voting works.
Next election: Sat 9 Sep 2028
Open →Contact & servicesHow to reach the council and report a problem.
Customer service: 02 9392 5000
Open →City profileThe basics: how many people live here, how big the area is.
Population: ~190,900 (2024)
Open →What's happening
3 updatesRecent items from Inner West Council's public channels, in plain language.
- Event
Inner West opens first-ever Pride Walk celebrating LGBTQIA+ history
Council launched its inaugural Pride Walk, marking the region's LGBTQIA+ heritage.
What this means for you: A new permanent public trail/installation is open to visit in the Inner West.
Source: Inner West Council — News
- Policy
Delivery Program, Operational Plan and 2026/27 Budget adopted
Following public exhibition, Council adopted its Delivery Program 2025–2029 (year 2), Operational Plan and Budget 2026/27 at its meeting on 16 June 2026, including a 4.4% rate peg and no special rate variation.
What this means for you: This sets how your rates and fees change and what services and capital works are funded for 2026/27.
Source: Your Say Inner West
- Development
Council opens its latest inclusive playground at Yeo Park
Council completed its third flagship all-abilities playground, at Yeo Park in Ashfield.
What this means for you: A new accessible play space is open for families in the Ashfield area.
Source: Inner West Council — News
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