Project update

At the 20 October 2025 Meeting, Council received and noted a report on the community engagement outcomes of the Regional Development Australia - new lease proposal.

Council received one submission in support of the lease proposal during the public consultation period. Council granted consent to a 10-year (5+5 years) lease with Regional Development Australia, Adelaide Hills Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island Inc. for ongoing use of the Headmasters Cottage at Strathalbyn and approved the lease fee (annual rent).

About the project

Council sought community feedback on a proposal to provide a 10-year commercial lease to Regional Development Australia, Adelaide Hills Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island Inc, for continued occupancy of the Old Headmasters Cottage located at 1 Colman Terrace Strathalbyn, behind the Strathalbyn Council Office.

Why did we ask?

As the land is community land and the proposed term of the lease is greater than 5 years, community consultation is required under the Local Government Act 1999, to provide the public with an opportunity to consider the essential terms proposed and make a submission regarding the proposal should they choose to.

Community engagement is integral to Council when considering a proposal over community land. Following close of community engagement, the submissions received are provided to Council to assist Council Members in making an informed decision on the proposal.

Proposed lease details

The community are provided with the below essential terms of the proposed lease:

  • Ten (5 + 5) year commercial building lease
  • Commencement date of 1 November 2025.
  • Expiry date of 31 October 2035
  • Commencement lease fee to be determined by Independent Valuation with annual increase by CPI.
  • Commencement lease fee on five (5) year renewal term to be determined by Independent Valuation with annual increase by CPI.
  • Lease area as provided within the consultation process
  • All services, insurances, outgoings and maintenance responsibilities are the cost of the Lessee, with Council responsible for replacement of infrastructure at end of useful life.

How we invited feedback

  • Online
    • Provide feedback via the online survey

  • Written feedback

    • Email your submission to alex@alexandrina.sa.gov.au
    • Post your feedback to Att: CEO, Alexandrina Council, PO Box 21, Goolwa SA 5214
    • Drop your feedback off at the Strathalbyn or Goolwa office during opening hours

    You can prepare your own written submissions, or download a hardcopy survey from the Document Library.

Lease map

aerial image of location behind Strathalbyn Council Office
aerial image of location behind Strathalbyn Council Office - wider angle to show position