FAQs
What is the Public Domain Strategy?
The Public Domain Strategy will establish a framework and include clear recommendations to reflect the changing needs of the community for shared public spaces in the Sutherland Shire.
As well as a framework for public lighting, the strategy will also include verges and verge gardens, public toilets, EV charging vehicles, driveways, street tree planting, special event lighting, wayfinding, signage and murals (arts & culture).
The Public Domain Strategy is developed by Council staff using feedback collected from community about the things you’ve told us you value and specific inputs into Public Domain Town Centres - the results of that consultation can be found here [LINK].
Who decides where there should be public lighting and what level of street lighting?
It is the road authority (Sutherland Shire Council or Transport for NSW for State Roads) that specifies the category of the road, and the associated lighting requirements.
Who is responsible for streetlight repairs?
Ausgrid is responsible for the maintenance of streetlights that are Ausgrid assets on its network. Street lighting on Classified (State) Roads and on bridges is the responsibility of Transport for NSW.
Council is responsible for the lighting in its ownership, which is generally parks, reserves, some car parks and some town centres. Council owns lighting for sport and selected Centres including; Sutherland, Gymea and Cronulla.
Who is responsible for tree trimming around a streetlight?
Ausgrid is responsible for tree trimming around a streetlight to facilitate safe access to the light. As per the NSW Public Lighting Code 2020, Council is responsible for vegetation management beyond the safe clearance zone to ensure effective public lighting.
How do I request an additional streetlight?
Any request for lighting from the general public must first be raised with Council. Council pays for the street lighting service via annuity fees for energy use, capital costs and maintenance. Therefore, only Council can approve and request the installation of new streetlights. Council undertakes an assessment and review of each request, and if it’s deemed necessary to have an additional or new streetlight, the council will contact Ausgrid to arrange for its installation.
How long do repairs take?
Ausgrid complies with the service levels specified by the NSW Public Lighting Code 2020 and carries out unplanned maintenance when it has received a fault report from Council or member of the public. Ausgrid plans to repair general faults within 10 business days from the day the report is received. Sometimes a repair is complicated, and more time is needed to fix a fault. On average, it takes 20 business days to fix these more complex faults. Council also aims to provide a service standard in line with the NSW Public Lighting Code, and prioritises repairs based on safety and resourcing.
How can I find out more about Ausgrid Public Lighting?
Public Lighting FAQs are available at Ausgrid's website.