Council
24 November, 2025
Camden Council receives highest honour
Camden Council announced yesterday that it has been awarded local government’s highest honour, the AR Bluett Award, recognising their ‘unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation and community leadership’.
Camden Council announced yesterday that it has been awarded local government’s highest honour, the AR Bluett Award, recognising their ‘unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation and community leadership’.
The AR Bluett Memorial Award has been awarded annually to councils since 1945.
The award is contested each year by councils in NSW that would like to be recognised as being the most progressive in the state.
Albert Robert (AR) Bluett was an outstanding figure in local government, serving as the Secretary and Solicitor to the Local Government and Shires Associations of NSW for 30 years.
He was the authority on local government law, and his opinion was respected by the legal profession and Ministers of the crown.
He helped to write the Local Government Act of 1919.
Following his death in April 1944, the councils of NSW subscribed to a fund as a permanent memorial to his work.
This money funds the bronze plaques, awarded to the winning councils each year.
His legacy also lives on through the Bluett Local Government Handbook, often referred to as the local government ‘bible’.
Camden Council say they have delivered a number of key achievements including:
Strong advocacy for improved services and infrastructure, particularly in response to cost-of-living pressures and inadequate public transport;
Advocacy efforts launching “The Time Is Now” campaign, elevating local priorities to state and federal leaders;
Council was the third fastest Council in Greater Sydney, with an average DA determination timeframe of 71 days;
Delivering a $1 billion dollar capital works program through to 2027-28;
Camden Civic Centre renewal and upgrade;
In 2023, a 96 percent customer satisfaction rating with Council’s performance; and
Efforts to protect natural environments and celebrate Camden’s unique heritage.
“To even be considered for the AR Bluett Award is a privilege, but to take out and accept this award is truly extraordinary,” Mayor of Camden, Cr. Therese Fedeli said.
“The honour reflects the dedication of the entire Camden community. I am immensely proud to accept this recognition on behalf of every person who has contributed to Camden’s remarkable growth story. Our residents, volunteers, community groups, sporting clubs, local businesses, service providers, and of course the exceptional staff and elected representatives of Camden Council- you are the reason we have been recognised.
“Although this award recognises what Camden Council has achieved so far, the most exciting part is knowing the best of Camden is still to come, said Cr. Fedeli.
General Manager of Camden Council, Andrew Carfield said he was truly honoured and proud of Council’s achievement.
“As one of Australia’s fastest-growing communities, Camden has navigated significant challenges, while continuing to deliver high-quality services and infrastructure,” he said.
“The award acknowledges the Council’s commitment to planning, financial discipline, community-centred decision-making and innovative service delivery throughout this period of rapid change.
“The award recognises that Camden has embraced the challenges and opportunities of growth, while never losing sight of what matters most, our community.
“I extend gratitude to the AR Bluett Trustees for recognising Camden’s achievements and for the opportunity to share our journey and highlight the incredible work taking place across our Local Government Area.”
Read More: Camden, Menangle, Douglas Park, Wollondilly