The City's response to Daily Mail Australia about Old Soul Coffee Co van at Nicholson Reserve, Yangebup, 15.8.25
Question: What was the initial issue raised with the business, and what were the later issues raised? (I understand it operates on state school land, but also falls within a kind of like-business exclusion perimeter?)
Answer:The business was found to be operating without the required licence, which is a legal prerequisite under the City’s Local Laws.
The business could not be considered for a licence because it did not meet the legally mandated operating standards for mobile food vans.
The standards prohibit stallholders from trading within 1km of any shop, trader, or permanent place of business that sells similar goods, wares, merchandise, or services.
In this case, there are multiple businesses existing within a 1km radius of this location, that offer the same types of products, which places this operation in breach of the prescribed exclusion zone.
The site in question is situated on land owned by the Department of Education. It has not been previously identified or approved as a suitable location for mobile food vending.
The adjacent car park being used by customers is designated for school-related use, particularly for the safe drop-off and pick-up of students attending Yangebup Primary School.
The City must prioritise the safety and amenity of all community members, particularly in areas surrounding schools. Increased traffic and parking congestion during school hours pose potential risks to students and families.
Question: Did the council order the business to cease operations?
Answer: The City requested the business cease operating as they did not have the necessary licence.
Question: Under what codes is the business directly contravening, and what are the financial ramifications for continual offending?
Answer:The City of Cockburn (Local Government Act) Local Laws 2000 requires a mobile trader obtain a licence prior to operating. If an operator continues to trade without the necessary licence the City may issue an infringement(s) of $150.
Question: Does the council welcome community efforts to create neighbourhood initiatives?
Answer: The City acknowledges the interest from members of the community in supporting local mobile food vendors and creating vibrant public spaces. We welcome further discussion on identifying appropriate locations for mobile food vendors in the area.
The City of Cockburn also actively welcomes and supports community-led neighbourhood initiatives.
Through its Community Development program, the City offers a range of resources and funding opportunities to empower residents and local groups, including:
- Neighbourhood Networking Fund: This program provides financial support for neighbours and community groups to host small-scale events that foster local connections
- Community Funding and Grants: Various grants are available to assist with events, activities, and projects that benefit the community
- Support for Not-for-Profit Groups: The City offers project support, insurance programs, promotional opportunities, and access to a free Community Trailer to help enhance events
- Community Events Guide: This includes education, advertising, training, and guidance on approvals and legal requirements for hosting events.
These initiatives reflect the City’s commitment to building strong, connected communities by enabling grassroots efforts and encouraging local engagement.
Question: And is there a formal response we could print to allegations it provides an unsustainable economic and bureaucratic environment for new businesses and initiatives in Yangebup – I.e. the failed farmer’s market and failed attempts at gaining support for a community garden?
Answer: The City has a strong commitment to supporting local economic development, including in Yangebup, including:
- Economic Development Grants: Grants of up to $5,000 are available for small and micro businesses to support innovation, digital transformation, and workforce development
- Small Business Friendly Local Government Initiative: Cockburn joined this WA Government program in 2018 and has since implemented streamlined approval processes, business development grants, and networking opportunities
- Business Fibre Zones (BFZs): Yangebup is partially covered by a new high-speed internet zone co-funded by the City and the Australian Government, improving digital infrastructure for over 1,200 businesses.
It is understood the operators of the farmers market decided to stop running the market because it wasn’t commercially viable from that location (Nicholson Reserve).
The City of Cockburn actively supports community gardens and has a structured framework to help residents and groups establish and manage them. Residents are currently in ongoing discussions with the City about establishing a community garden in the area.