Councillor update from Cr Daniel Griffiths for June/July 2026

“Daniel, help me get out of this unfair parking fine”. 
No matter the reason, the law prohibits councilors from getting involved with parking infringements.

“My nature strip tree is dangerous, do something”. 
Council has a team of arborists that assess trees against Council policies. A recent case in Burwood East led to tree removal for blocking path access.

“Please get someone out to mow the long grass in the park”. 
Reserves are mowed every 28 days (weather-dependent). Councillors cannot direct Council staff, so all operational matters are referred to the Council’s CEO for action.

“Can I have a ‘pickup your dog poo' sign stenciled near Highbury Park?”  Yes.

Public open space. In response to community Budget feedback regarding the significant Open Space Fund (~$70m), Council is shifting towards a more proactive strategy for land acquisition. We are now more actively identifying and pursuing strategic land purchases to ensure these developer-contributed funds are directly reinvested into expanding our public parkland.

Transparency. Council will now systematically review and release confidential reports once commercial sensitivities have passed — such as those involved in land negotiations. This ensures residents are kept informed while still protecting the community's financial interests during active deals.

What’s on?

Wurundjeri Walk Group Planting. 
Join a community planting session 27 June, 10am, Orchard Grove carpark.

Coffee with your councillor 
Join me Sat 18th July, 10am Burwood Brickworks (near Woolworths) or 1pm Burwood One (near Coles).

Avenue Neighbourhood House at Eley

1. Annual Art Competition Exhibition open 13–25 July (Mon-Sat),
2. Sleeping Star Productions This local youth drama group (ages 7–14) will perform Mary Poppins Jr on 17 and 18 July.
3. Makers Market Saturday 20 June