What is asset management?

    The combination of management, financial, economic, engineering and other practices applied to assets with the objective of providing the required service level in the most cost-effective manner. 

    In simplest terms, asset management is about how assets are ‘looked after’: 

    • both on a day-to-day basis:MaintenanceMonitoring and Operation 

    • and in the medium-to-long term:Planning, Purchase / CreationRenewal and Disposal 

    Find out more at Asset management | City of Marion 



    What is an Asset Management Strategy?

    This Asset Management Strategy is designed to implement Council’s Asset Management Policy and give direction to the delivery of Council’s Asset Management Plans. The South Australian Local Government Act 1999 requires Council to have a strategic management plan for infrastructure and other major assets for a period of at least ten years. In addition to the legislative requirement, our role is to ensure that our assets meet the needs of our community now and into the future. 

    A full review of this strategy will take place at least every four years following Local Government elections or any review of Council’s Strategic Plan. 

    Why do we need an Asset Management Strategy?

    In an era where local government organisations face increasing pressure to efficiently manage their assets and provide essential services to their communities, the importance of an effective asset management strategy is crucial. For the City of Marion, the unique challenges and opportunities presented by its regional characteristics and diverse community demand a comprehensive and forward-thinking approach. 

    This Asset Management Strategy aligns with the principles of sustainability, long-term planning, and community engagement. By embracing these principles, the City of Marion aims to optimise the utilisation, performance, and value of its assets, while ensuring the well-being and satisfaction of its residents. 

    By developing a robust strategy that addresses the specific needs and aspirations of our city, the foundation will be laid for sustainable growth, enhanced service provision, and a thriving community. Through collaboration, innovation, and sound management, this strategy will guide the organisation towards a prosperous future, fulfilling its commitment to the community it serves. 

    What infrastructure and services does the Asset Management Strategy cover?

    The strategy groups Council’s assets into nine categories: 

    • Artworks, culture and heritage assets contribute to the unique identity of the City of Marion, and reflect the development of the community, its diversity and its history. 

    • Buildings and structural assets support the delivery of community, sporting and recreational activities, provide accommodation for Council’s administration and operations and are leased to commercial operations. 

    • The Coastal Walkway attracts visitors into the region, provides open space for community recreation and conservation of the natural environment. 

    • Fleet, plant and equipment assets are used to construct and maintain infrastructure and land, move materials and equipment and transport Council staff and community members. 

    • Open space assets provide an accessible and diverse variety of recreation and natural environment conservation and appreciation opportunities that are distributed across the city. 

    • Stormwater assets include pipes, pits, drains and gross pollutant traps to provide an efficient method of collection and environmentally friendly disposal of stormwater run-off. 

    • Transport assets include roads for vehicles and cyclists, footpaths for pedestrians and cyclists, car parks and streetscapes for aesthetics. 

    • Tree assets provide many benefits to our community. Our vision is to have green streets and parks which are lined with mature, healthy trees that are a habitat for birds and other wildlife and contribute to urban cooling and the environment. 

    • Water treatment and resources assets maximise water harvesting capacity and improve water quality and water security across the city. 

    Why does Council set levels of service?

    Assets exist to meet community needs and support the delivery of services to the levels of service adopted by Council. Community expectations are increasing, which affects the ability of existing purpose-built assets to meet the changing needs of our residents. By defining levels of service in our Asset Management Plans, the City of Marion’s assets will be safe, accessible, well maintained and meet community needs in a sustainable manner. 

    I have previously provided feedback on similar topics. How is this different?

    Council uses a range of activities to engage with the community and stakeholders. Analysis of our 2020-2030 Asset Management Plans consultation results and community satisfaction survey results have fed into the development of our Draft Asset Management Strategy.This engagement process is focused solelon the Draft Asset Management Strategy.  

    What happens next?

    Council values all feedback received on this draft Asset Management Strategy 2023-2033. Your feedback is important to us, and it will be reviewed and used to help inform the strategy. To close the loop, Council will publish the final strategy after endorsement by General Council at its meeting on 28 November 2023.