Inverell Shire Council has adopted a revised Stock Grids, Ramps and Gates Policy following an extensive review, investigation process and community consultation program undertaken across the Local Government Area.
The revised policy establishes a contemporary framework for the licensing, management, maintenance and compliance of stock grids, ramps and gates located on Council controlled roads.
The updated framework is designed to improve road safety, clarify ownership and maintenance responsibilities and ensure infrastructure across the road network aligns with current legislative, engineering and risk management standards.
Deputy Mayor Cr Jo Williams said the policy review had involved significant engagement with affected landholders and rural stakeholders over an extended period.
“Council recognises the important role stock grids play in supporting rural operations, drought management and property access across Inverell Shire. The consultation process provided valuable feedback from landholders and that feedback has directly influenced amendments incorporated into the final policy,” the Deputy Mayor said.
During consultation, Council received feedback relating to signage requirements, compliance costs, operational practicality, drought impacts and the importance of some stock grids to broader community outcomes.
In response, amendments were made to provide greater flexibility in relation to signage requirements on low-volume rural roads where appropriate sight distance exists.
The revised policy also recognises circumstances where stock grids located on fully fenced road reserves may provide broader community benefit, particularly in relation to drought management, travelling stock route connectivity and regional agricultural operations.
Under the new framework:
- Existing stock grids and associated structures will not incur licence application fees
- Licence fees will only apply to applications for new structures at new locations
- Existing infrastructure owners will have six months to lodge licence applications
- Licence holders will then have up to 24 months to achieve compliance with the policy requirements.
To assist landholders with implementation costs, Council also intends to facilitate the bulk purchase of compliant signage, signposts and reflectors and make those materials available to licence holders at cost price.
The revised policy provides Council with a clear and legally robust framework to improve road user safety, clarify responsibilities and systematically manage stock grid infrastructure into the future.
Council acknowledged the significant drought conditions currently affecting the rural sector and noted concerns raised by landholders regarding financial pressures and implementation timeframes.
Council staff will continue monitoring seasonal conditions and community impacts throughout implementation of the policy and may provide further reports to Council if extensions to compliance timeframes are considered necessary.
The revised policy follows extensive consultation including direct engagement with landholders, site inspections, written submissions and formal public exhibition of the draft document.
Council will now commence staged implementation of the licensing and compliance framework across the Local Government Area.
Media Release: Inverell Shire council
