NSW · Sydney's upper north shore · Local council, made simple
Ku-ring-gai Council
Sydney's leafy upper north shore — around 128,362 people across suburbs like Gordon, Turramurra, Lindfield, Pymble, St Ives and Wahroonga, bordered by the Ku-ring-gai Chase, Lane Cove and Garigal National Parks. The council runs the local services you use every week — waste, roads, libraries, parks, development — and sets your rates, now including a newly approved Special Rate Variation. 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.
2026–27 rates: +29.0% (rate peg + approved SRV)
Open →Budget & financesHow financially healthy the council is, measured against official benchmarks.
Meets 5 of 9 OLG financial benchmarks
Open →Crime & safetyKu-ring-gai's recorded crime rates, side by side with the NSW average.
All 12 major offences below the NSW rate
Open →Mayor & councillorsWho represents you, by ward — and where to read their official profiles.
Mayor: Christine Kay (elected by councillors)
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) 9424 0000
Open →City profileThe basics: how many people live here, how big the area is.
Population: ~128,362 (2023–24)
Open →What's happening
3 updatesRecent items from Ku-ring-gai Council's public channels, in plain language.
- Policy
Antisemitism and anti-racism program secures Government funding
Ku-ring-gai Council's antisemitism and anti-racism program received NSW Government funding.
What this means for you: The council is running a funded community program on this issue; see the source for its scope and how to get involved.
- Policy
Ku-ring-gai Council passes special rate variation
IPART approved a permanent Special Rate Variation of 24.6% (29.0% total with the rate peg) for 2026–27, expected to raise about $20.7 million a year.
What this means for you: Your rates rise well above the usual peg from 1 July 2026 — about $499 a year more for the average residential ratepayer — to fund community buildings, stormwater, footpaths, parks and traffic upgrades.
- Event
Creativity takes centre-stage at Ku-ring-gai Arts and Cultural Festival
The council's Arts and Cultural Festival showcased local creativity across Ku-ring-gai.
What this means for you: A council-run community event; check the council's What's On page for the next one near you.
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