NSW · Illawarra / South Coast · Local council, made simple
Kiama Municipal Council
A small coastal municipality on the NSW South Coast, just south of Shellharbour and about 120 km from Sydney — around 23,200 people across towns like Kiama, Gerringong, Jamberoo and Minnamurra, known for the Kiama Blowhole and its beaches. The council (nine councillors, no wards) runs the local services you use every week — waste, roads, beaches, parks, libraries — 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.
Open for your feedback
See all →Things Kiama Municipal Council wants your say on right now. Your view counts for more before the deadline.
- Open — see source for the closing date
Council seeking feedback on new Kiama Advocacy Plan
Have your say →
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 7 of 9 OLG financial benchmarks
Open →Crime & safetyKiama's recorded crime rates, side by side with the NSW average.
All 12 major offences below the NSW rate
Open →Mayor & councillorsWho represents you — and where to read their official profiles.
Mayor: Cameron McDonald (Independent)
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) 4232 0444
Open →City profileThe basics: how many people live here, how big the area is.
Population: ~23,200
Open →What's happening
64 updatesAuto-collected from Kiama Municipal Council's public channels and drafted in plain language (pending review).
- Event
Free EmergencyRedi Workshop 10 November
10 Nov 2026 Australian Red Cross is running an EmergencyRedi Workshop in Kiama on Tuesday 10 November 1pm– 2. 30pm at Kiama Library Auditorium.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — What's on
- Policy
Four objectives of Council’s Reconciliation Action Plan
Published on 04 November 2026 There are four main objectives of Kiama Municipal Council’s draft Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) - Relationships, Respect, Opportunities and Governance.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Waste
Household bulky waste drop-off
07 Nov 2026 Kiama Municipal Council’s next Bulky Waste Drop-Off Event will be held at the Minnamurra Waste and Recycling Facility on 7-15 November. IMPORTANT - Please read the Terms and Conditions prior to booking.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — What's on
- Council meeting
Minnamurra Progress Association meeting
03 Nov 2026 Join the Minnamurra Progress Association for their monthly meeting.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — What's on
- Election
Mayor’s update: Finding the right path for Kiama’s future
Published on 30 October 2026 There’s been plenty of debate in our community since last Tuesday’s Council meeting and I want to reassure local residents that the conversation over financial sustainability has been ongoing.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Event
Kiama Harbour Activation Working Group
03 Nov 2026 Meetings of the Kiama Harbour Activation Working Group are held three times per year Council Chambers, 11 Manning Street, KIAMA 2533 3 more dates Tagged as: , Board/Committee Meeting
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — What's on
- Have your say
Council seeking feedback on new Kiama Advocacy Plan
Published on 30 October 2026 Local residents are encouraged to have their say on Kiama Municipal Council’s draft advocacy plan, an updated list of key priorities for the area.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Policy
Council backs next step for Kiama’s After Dark future
Published on 26 October 2026 From live music and cultural events to evening dining and community gatherings, local residents have consistently told Kiama Municipal Council they want more reasons to stay, connect and enjoy the town centre after dark.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Council meeting
Tourism and Economic Advisory Committee meeting
29 Oct 2026 Meetings of the Tourism and Economic Advisory Committee are held bi-monthly.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — What's on
- Event
Novel November Writing Month workshops at local libraries
Published on 23 October 2026 Fancy yourself a writer? Not sure how to get started?
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Event
Switch on Kiama ⚡ Go Electric and Save⚡
28 Oct 2026 A free community electrification event is coming to Kiama this November. Co-hosted by Electrify Kiama and Electrify Illawarra and proudly supported by Kiama Municipal Council, the event will bring together local experts, providers and the community to explore practical ways to electrify our homes and lives, reduce energy costs and make the most of new technologies and available incentives.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — What's on
- Policy
Council announces funding boost for community groups and events
Published on 22 October 2026 Kiama Municipal Council is lending a hand to a range of local events with the recipients announced for the 2026/27 Grants, Donations and Sponsorships Program.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Policy
Council to consult community before deciding financial plan
Published on 21 October 2026 Kiama Municipal Council will seek the feedback of the local community before finalising how it will resolve its financial situation in line with the requirements of the NSW Government’s Performance Improvement Order (PIO).
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Policy
Mental Health Month musical connection strikes a chord at Blue Haven
Published on 20 October 2026 Residents at Blue Haven Terralong were treated to a morning of music, laughter and connection as part of a special Mental Health Month Morning Tea, proudly supported by a WayAhead Mental Health Month grant.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Policy
Gerringong SLSC long-term lease close to being finalised
Published on 19 October 2026 Kiama Municipal Council is pleased to advise that the long-term lease for Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club is a step closer to being finalised.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Policy
Council welcomes decision to call off proposed funding changes
Published on 16 October 2026 Mayor Cameron McDonald has welcomed the announcement from the NSW Local Government Grants Commission that proposed changes to the Commonwealth Financial Assistance Grants funding system will not be going ahead.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Election
Mayor’s update: The four pillars of Kiama’s new advocacy plan
Published on 16 October 2026 Recently I wrote about the importance of formally advocating for Kiama to ensure other levels of government are aware of what our community needs to set ourselves up for the future.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Policy
Supplementary report on PIO documents
Published on 15 October 2026 Kiama Municipal Council formally advises residents that a supplementary report for next Tuesday’s Ordinary Meeting on two key documents is being prepared: Tagged as: , Announcements, Media Re
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Policy
Giddy up for Melbourne Cup at The Pavilion
Published on 13 October 2026 If you can’t make it to the famous Flemington racetrack, then The Pavilion Kiama is the place to be on Melbourne Cup Day.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Policy
Inaugural Kiama Culture Fest a shiny success
Published on 12 October 2026 The first Kiama Culture Fest was a stunning success on Saturday with early-morning rain clearing to allow the community to come together for a day of diversity bathed in glorious spring sunshine.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Policy
Important information about rates payment procedures
Published on 09 October 2026 Kiama Municipal Council would like to remind residents that rates can no longer be paid via the previous direct debit system and must be done by using one of Councils approved payment methods as listed on your rates notice.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Policy
Riding for the Disabled program producing ‘magic’ at Jerrara
Published on 09 October 2026 Kiama Municipal Council is proud to support Riding for The Disabled Illawarra Centre in providing safe, fun and beneficial riding therapy program at Jerrara.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Council meeting
Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee meeting
13 Oct 2026 Meeting of the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee is held five times per year Council Chambers, 11 Manning Street, KIAMA 2533 1 more date Tagged as: , Council Meeting
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — What's on
- Policy
Local sportsfield upgrades a win for the community
Published on 07 October 2026 With the winter sports done for the year and summer just around the corner, Kiama Municipal Council is working hard to keep local grounds in tip-top condition.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Event
Watercolour workshop with Heidi Uhlig
10 Oct 2026 In celebration of Culture Fest, join German artist Heidi Uhlig for a relaxed still life watercolour workshop inspired by her German heritage. No previous watercolour experience is necessary | All materials provided.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — What's on
- Council meeting
Jamberoo Valley Ratepayers and Residents Association meeting
03 Nov 2026 Join the Jamberoo Valley Ratepayers and Residents Association for their monthly meeting.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — What's on
- Policy
Something for everyone at Kiama Culture Fest
Published on 02 October 2026 Hindmarsh Park will be a sea of colour and full of delicious flavours next Saturday when the inaugural Kiama Culture Fest celebrates the diversity of our multicultural society.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Waste
Mayor’s update: We can’t afford to waste resources on collections
Published on 02 October 2026 Waste not, want not is the approach we at Kiama Municipal Council are taking when it comes to the future of the Household Bulky Waste system and the switch to fortnightly yellow-lid recycling bin collection.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Event
Don’t miss wedding open days at The Pavilion
Published on 02 October 2026 Wedding season has arrived, and for couples dreaming of saying “I do” by the sea, The Pavilion Kiama is a destination worth discovering - when we say it’s time to think about the right match, we mean the wedding venue, of course.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Council meeting
Kiama Local Transport Forum meeting
03 Nov 2026 Meeting of the Kiama Local Transport Forum (formerly the Local Traffic Committee) is held at 9am on the first Tuesday of each month, when required. (except in January).
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — What's on
- Policy
Council happy to give KCR a helping hand
Published on 30 September 2026 Kiama Community Radio will be able to enhance its ability to serve the community, broaden its programming, and continue expanding the reach of local broadcasting after signing a five-year licence to remain at its Terralong Street studio.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Event
Finance and Major Projects Advisory Committee
01 Oct 2026 Meetings of the Finance and Major Projects Advisory Committee are held quarterly on the first Thursday of the month Council Chambers, 11 Manning Street, KIAMA 2533 Tagged as: , Board/Committee Meeting
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — What's on
- Policy
Right to Know Week: Upholding Information Integrity in the Digital Age
Published on 28 September 2026 Kiama Municipal Council proudly supports Right to Know Week, an important global campaign that aims to raise awareness of each individual’s right of access to government information and promote open, transparent government.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Policy
October long weekend operating times
Published on 28 September 2026 Several of Council’s facilities will be closed or have different operating hours on Labour Day Tagged as: , Announcements
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Policy
Please don't harm migrating Bogong moths
Published on 28 September 2026 You may have noticed an increase in moth activity across the region recently. Many of these are believed to be Bogong moths, an endangered native species undertaking one of Australia's most remarkable migrations.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Election
Food for thought on menu at Kiama Business Network Mayoral Breakfast
Published on 25 September 2026 Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald spoke of the importance of building on Council’s economic progress at the annual Kiama Business Network Mayoral Breakfast at The Sebel on Thursday.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Policy
Mixed water quality results highlight need for improved infrastructure
Published on 25 September 2026 Kiama Municipal Council will work with Sydney Water and relevant agencies to find solutions after mixed results for our local beaches in the NSW Beachwatch 2026 State of the Beaches report.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Election
Mayor demands answers from Commission over grants cuts
Published on 24 September 2026 At a time when Kiama Municipal Council is working under the constraints of the NSW Government’s Varied Performance Improvement Order (PIO) and battling to close its budget deficit by 2026-27, Mayor Cameron McDonald is stunned over further proposed cuts to funding.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Have your say
Many ways to have your say on financial issues
Published on 24 September 2026 After the endorsement for public exhibition of Kiama Municipal Council’s Draft Revenue Improvement Strategy and Draft Strategic Asset review at September’s Ordinary Meeting, the community can now have their say on these documents via six engagement methods.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Event
School holiday activities - Kiama Leisure Centre
09 Oct 2026 We offer a range of activities for children during school holidays, including the inflatable pool toy, gymnastics, games and fun!
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — What's on
- Waste
Minor delays expected for waste collection services
Published on 23 September 2026 Kiama Municipal Council advises that waste collection services may be affected this week due to operational issues.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Policy
Kiama welcomes sports funding boost
Published on 21 September 2026 Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald has welcomed the NSW Government’s announcement of funding for the Kiama Sports Complex as part of the Active Regional Communities Package for the South Coast.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Event
School holiday activities in Kiama
09 Oct 2026 Make the most of the October school holidays with a fun mix of indoor and outdoor activities for kids and families offered from the Kiama Council umbrella of facilities.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — What's on
- Council meeting
Gerroa Community Association meeting
24 Sep 2026 Join the Gerroa Community Association for their bi-monthly meeting.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — What's on
- Policy
Creativity in the air at Pavilion for Business Summit
Published on 20 September 2026 Creativity, connection and camaraderie were in the air at The Pavilion recently for The Creative Business Summit.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Election
Mayor’s update: Revenue improvement a must-have for Council
Published on 18 September 2026 It’s my pleasure to be bringing this Mayor’s update to you after having the honour of being re-elected on Tuesday night for another two years.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Policy
Council moving forward with holiday parks
Published on 17 September 2026 Kiama Municipal Council considered a report at Tuesday night’s September Ordinary Meeting regarding its holiday parks portfolio.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Election
Deputy Mayor welcomes 20 new citizens to Kiama
Published on 17 September 2026 Kiama added 20 new citizens on Thursday as part of Australian Citizenship Day.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Policy
Local libraries a hive of activity
Published on 19 September 2026 There’s plenty happening in Kiama and Gerringong for library lovers young and old.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Policy
Council advice on safety measures after bird flu detected in Kiama
Published on 16 September 2026 Kiama Council advises the community that a first case of avian bird flu has been detected in the Kiama local government area.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Election
Mayor, Deputy Mayor elections, Councillor Jarrett sworn in
Published on 15 September 2026 Councillor Cameron McDonald will continue to serve as Mayor of Kiama Municipal Council after Councillors voted at the mid-term Mayoral election at the September Ordinary Meeting on Tuesday night.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Policy
Kiama wins silver at Australia’s Top Tourism Town awards
Published on 15 September 2026 Kiama was one of six towns nominated for a national tourism award and took home the silver medal as runner-up.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Policy
Stay safe with lifeguard season on the horizon
Published on 14 September 2026 Spring is here and lifeguards will begin patrolling local beaches later this month to coincide with the school holidays.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Policy
Council to consider Draft Revenue Improvement Strategy options
Published on 11 September 2026 As part of the varied Performance Improvement Order (PIO) issued by the NSW Government, Kiama Council has developed a Draft Revenue Improvement Strategy to identify lawful recurring revenue opportunities.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Election
Mayor’s update: Stating our case to government for Kiama Advocacy Plan
Published on 04 September 2026 We’ve had quite a few elections here in Kiama in recent years with additional ones popping up like last year’s state by-election and the recent vote for the vacant councillor seat.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Election
Jarrett wins Council by-election
Published on 07 September 2026 Kiama Municipal Council will welcome Councillor-elect Stan Jarrett at next Tuesday’s Ordinary Meeting after his victory in the recent by-election.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Event
School holiday fun at Kiama Leisure Centre
Published on 09 September 2026 If you are looking to make a splash or just have some fun in the school holidays, then Kiama Leisure Centre is the place to be.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Waste
Dates announced for Bulky Waste Drop-Off
Published on 10 September 2026 The second of Kiama Municipal Council’s Bulky Waste Drop-Off Events for 2026 will be held at the Minnamurra Waste and Recycling Facility on 7-15 November.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Waste
Household bulky waste review to be considered by Council
Published on 03 September 2026 Kiama Municipal Council is considering changes to the way in which residents can dispose of household bulky waste.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Event
A new celebration of culture comes to Kiama
Published on 02 September 2026 Backed by funding from Multicultural NSW, Kiama Culture Fest is set to bring a vibrant celebration of culture, community and connection to the heart of town.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Policy
Council investing in Blue Haven Terralong with fire safety upgrades
Published on 03 September 2026 Kiama Municipal Council is in the early stages of major fire safety upgrade works at Stage 5 at Blue Haven Terralong.
What this means for you: Open the source to see the details and any deadline to respond.
Source: Kiama Council — Latest news
- Event
Kiama Sculpture Walk 2026 (ARTpark)
ARTpark returns to Kiama with a public sculpture exhibition from Hindmarsh Park to Black Beach, on display from April to July 2026, supported by multi-year NSW Government funding.
What this means for you: A free outdoor exhibition to walk through over autumn and winter 2026 if you live in or are visiting the area.
Source: Kiama Council — What's on
- Waste
New 2026–27 waste calendar: recycling moves to fortnightly from 6 July
Kiama Council announced its 2026–27 waste collection calendar, starting Monday 6 July 2026. Yellow-lid recycling moves to a fortnightly cycle, the green FOGO bin stays weekly, and many households will have new collection days.
What this means for you: From 6 July your recycling is collected fortnightly and your collection day may change — enter your address on Council's Find My Bin page to confirm your new red, yellow and green dates and download your zone's calendar.
- Policy
IPART sets Kiama's 2025–26 rate peg at 3.7%
IPART set Kiama Council's 2025–26 rate peg at 3.7% (a 3.6% core peg plus a 0.1% population factor). The rate peg is the maximum percentage by which the council can increase its total general rates income for the year.
What this means for you: It caps the council's total rates income, not your individual bill — your own rates also depend on how your land value moved at the latest revaluation.
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We haven't started sending email, so we're not taking addresses for now. New items from Kiama Municipal Councilshow up under “What's happening” above as we find them, each linked to its official source.