Public Notice: Council Planning Sessions and Critical Health Advisories

Official City Roundup: Wednesday, 18 March 2026

As the city enters the middle of the week, several official notices and public service announcements have been issued regarding public health, local governance, and urban management. Residents and visitors are encouraged to review the following advisories to ensure they are informed of current community requirements and safety protocols.

Public Health Alert: Measles Outbreak and Symptoms Monitoring

NSW Health has extended its measles alert following a rise in locally acquired cases across the Sydney metropolitan area. As of mid-March, 27 cases have been confirmed this year. Specific attention is directed toward the Northern Beaches and Western Sydney regions. Health officials have identified several exposure sites in Manly, including major transport hubs and hospitality venues at Manly Wharf.

• Residents who visited Manly Wharf or nearby restaurants between March 5 and March 10 are advised to monitor for symptoms until March 27.
• Symptoms typically include fever, sore eyes, and a cough, followed a few days later by a red, blotchy rash.
• NSW Health urges all residents born after 1965 to ensure they have received two doses of the MMR vaccine, which is available free of charge from local general practitioners.

Expansion of Japanese Encephalitis Vaccination Access

In a secondary health update issued this week, the government has expanded free access to the Japanese encephalitis (JE) vaccine. This notice applies particularly to individuals spending significant time outdoors in high-risk areas or those residing in regions with high mosquito activity. Vaccination remains the most effective defense as the city transitions through the humid autumn period.

City Governance: Local Planning Panel Meeting

The City of Sydney Local Planning Panel is scheduled to convene today, Wednesday, 18 March 2026. This formal session is a critical component of the city’s development and land-use oversight.

• Time: 5:00 PM
• Location: Council Chamber, Sydney Town Hall
• Agenda: The panel will review several key development applications and planning proposals. While the specific agenda is finalized in the week preceding the meeting, the session is open to the public for observation and pre-registered addresses.

Public Service Announcement: Botanic Gardens Meeting

Public service employees and contractors associated with the Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust are notified of a Joint Consultative Committee meeting held today. This session aims to address workplace issues and union representation. Members are invited to attend at Level 3, Brown Burrawang, between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM to discuss upcoming workplace initiatives and safety standards.

Urban Management and Pedestrian Traffic

Heavy pedestrian traffic is anticipated in the Darling Harbour and Circular Quay precincts due to major scheduled events. The Accounting & Business Expo at the ICC Sydney and a significant performance by Opera Australia at the Sydney Opera House Forecourt are expected to draw large crowds. Commuters should expect minor delays on light rail services and increased activity around Central and Town Hall stations throughout the evening.