Torres Strait Island Regional Council continues to advance community outcomes

The Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC) held its first ordinary meeting of the year on Wednesday, 29 January and announced several key achievements and initiatives aimed at enhancing community services and infrastructure across the region. These milestones reflect Council’s ongoing commitment to delivering sustainable, community-focused outcomes.

Mer Emergency Erosion Works

Council has approved the implementation of emergency coastal protection works to safeguard homes on Mer Island threatened by coastal erosion. These temporary measures will involve the placement of sand-filled bags to create a protective barrier for the affected properties. The project is expected to take approximately two months to complete. TSIRC remains committed to advocating for external funding to support ongoing and long-term initiatives aimed at preserving our environment and enhancing sustainability.

Policy Framework Adoption

Council adopted a comprehensive policy framework designed to guide decision-making and operational practices. This framework ensures a consistent, transparent approach to governance and service delivery, ultimately benefiting all Torres Strait communities. By adopting this framework, TSIRC aims to enhance accountability and streamline processes, ensuring community needs remain at the forefront of all initiatives.

Chief Executive Officer James William highlighted the importance of this development saying, “This framework marks a significant step forward in ensuring that our operations are aligned with our Corporate Plan and the values and aspirations of our communities.”

Ferry Service Subsidy Between Hammond and Thursday Island

Council has successfully secured $130,000 in funding through the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) to subsidise the ferry service between Hammond Island and Thursday Island.

Mayor Phillemon Mosby said Council is proud to partner with the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) to make travel more accessible and ease the financial burden on our residents.

“This funding secured through TSRA is a significant step forward in ensuring our community members have affordable and reliable access to essential services on Thursday Island. It’s a win for everyone who relies on this vital connection for work, health care, and daily life”, Mayor Mosby said.

Development Approval for Lot 39, Main Road, Dauan

Council has approved the development process for Lot 39, Main Road, Dauan, under the Torres Strait Regional Council Zenedth Kes Planning Scheme. The approval will enable the construction of a mechanical shed and ranger station on the site, complementing existing buildings and services. This development represents a critical investment in infrastructure to support local operations and services on Dauan.

Latest on Financial Position

Council reported on its financial position as at end of December 2024 against the 2024-2025 budget. The following are notable highlights:

• The actual operating result (before depreciation) for the first half of the financial year reflects a surplus of $18.8M.
  • Compared to the original budget forecast, a favourable revenue variance of $21.3M is attributed to:
    • higher volume of high dollar value priority works
    • increase in grants income received due to the Financial Assistance grant being paid in the current financial year rather than at the end of last financial year and the continuation of the Indigenous Councils Funding Program
  • Compared to the budget forecast, an unfavourable expenditure variance of $2.6M is attributed to:
    • Increased reliance on temporary staff, contractors and consultants
    • Some housing upgrade works have yet to be re-allocated to capital expenditure
    • Increases expenditure relating to the increase in the volume of repairs and maintenance works

To ensure continued financial stability, management has engaged an external consultant to conduct a comprehensive review of organisational practices and financial management. The findings and recommendations from this review will be presented to Council at ongoing intervals.