The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) assessed 139 proposals (from 144 councils), using criteria established by the NSW Government last year.

IPART chairman Dr Peter Boxall said all proposals to either stand-alone or merge were assessed according to whether they delivered the scale and capacity, financial sustainability, the ability to effectively manage infrastructure and services, and efficiency for the community as required under the criteria.

Cessnock Council demonstrated sufficient scale and capacity and that it is financially sustainable.

Mayor Bob Pynsent said he is tremendously proud and that Cessnock has come a long way to achieve this result.

“This could not have been achieved without the hard work and dedication of our Councillors and staff, with a solid focus and concerted effort on process improvements and sustainability initiatives,” Cr Pynsent said.

“Our community can rest assured our magnificent region is in capable hands and we are a financially sustainable council – able to stand alone for the future.”

The IPART report recommended Maitland Council merge with Dungog, and that Newcastle and Lake Macquarie councils join forces.