Official Notice Roundup: Health Alerts and Community Development for March 27

Urgent Health Advisory: Measles Alert for the Illawarra

NSW Health has issued a critical health advisory for the Wollongong area following the notification of three new confirmed cases of measles as of March 26, 2026. These cases were acquired locally through contact with previously known infections. Authorities are advising the community to be highly alert for signs and symptoms, as the infectious individuals visited several public locations across the city before being diagnosed.

• Symptoms to monitor include fever, sore eyes, a runny nose, and a cough, which are typically followed by a red, blotchy rash starting on the head and face.
• If you suspect you have symptoms, it is vital to call your GP or the emergency department before arriving to ensure you are isolated from other patients.
• Infants, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems who may have been exposed are urged to contact the Public Health Unit immediately on 1300 066 055.

Public Exhibition: Draft Community Safety Plan 2026-2031

Wollongong City Council has officially endorsed the Draft Community Safety Plan 2026–2031 for public exhibition. This comprehensive five-year roadmap outlines strategies to reduce crime, discourage antisocial behavior, and improve the general perception of safety within the city. The plan highlights the importance of public space activation, improved street lighting, and strengthened partnerships with NSW Police.

Residents are encouraged to review the draft and provide feedback to help shape the future of community wellbeing. Submissions remain open through the official engagement portal, with the findings of the Community Safety Survey serving as a foundation for these proposed initiatives.

Planning Proposal: Review of Council Landholdings

A significant planning proposal regarding the strategic review of Council-owned lands is currently on exhibition and will remain open for public comment until March 31, 2026. This review focuses on lands currently zoned as R2 Low Density and R3 Medium Density Residential. The proposal aims to update the classifications and potential future uses of select properties throughout the Local Government Area.

• Hard copies of the proposal documents are available for review at the Council’s Customer Service Centre on Burelli Street and all local library branches.
• Community members may submit their views via email or through the Let’s Talk Wollongong website.

Community Event Updates and Cancellations

The annual Thirroul Seaside & Arts Festival 2026 officially begins today, Friday, March 27. The weekend-long celebration features local art and community programs at the Thirroul Community Centre. Additionally, residents should be aware of the following updates to Friday's scheduled programs:

• Budding Bookworms: The session previously scheduled for Friday, March 27, has been cancelled.
• Creative Wollongong Short Film Festival: Scheduled screenings will proceed as planned this evening.
• CBD Hotel Development: Council has resolved to amend planning controls to allow for an up-scaled 5-star hotel at the corner of Crown and Church Streets, aiming to boost local tourism and economic growth.