• Guides the content and procedures for plaques and commemorative events related to capital works projects on facilities or open space areas owned or managed by Hobsons Bay City Council.
• Community requests for plaques are excluded and are instead governed by the Council's Memorial Plaques, Commemorative Trees, and Scattering of Cremated Remains Policy.
• The naming of facilities is excluded and is governed by the Council's Naming Policy.

• Plaque: Permanent marker for public asset openings.
• Project Sponsor/Manager: Key roles in overseeing and managing projects.
• External Funding Contributions: Funds from State or Federal agencies.

• Large projects refer to major capital works with budgets exceeding $2 million, such as new facilities that generate significant community interest.
• Mid-range projects are moderately scaled capital works with budgets between $0.5 million and $2 million, such as playground installations, which have moderate community visibility and interest.
• Small projects involve minor upgrades or renewals, like road repairs, public toilets, or facility improvements, usually attracting low community interest.

• Large projects, regardless of external funding, involve a sod turning, an opening event, and a plaque.
• Mid-range projects include opening events and plaques for externally funded initiatives, while non-funded projects feature a photo shoot and/or press release.
• Small projects involve a photo shoot or press release only, unless the external funding provider specifies additional requirements.

• Sod turnings: Sod turnings are generally reserved for large capital works projects, particularly those with notable community interest or external funding. In a single ward structure, the Ward Councillor and Mayor are invited, while other Councillors may attend optionally. These events signify the commencement of construction and may feature a press release.
• Opening events: Opening events are for large or mid-range projects with significant community value. They involve the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, and Ward Councillor, with other Councillors invited optionally. Events are modest, focused, and require Director approval for external suppliers. The Mayor typically serves as the main speaker unless delegated.
• Photo shoots and press releases: For smaller projects or when an event is not warranted, photos of the Mayor and Ward Councillor with the completed project are taken and shared with the press to provide recognition without a formal event.

• Type 1 plaques for major projects with external funding require facility identification, opening details, Councillor and State government representative names, CEO name, Council logo, and funding partner logos, made using high-quality materials like stainless steel or bronze. Full content details are outlined in the Appendices.
• Type 2 plaques for major projects without external funding require facility identification, opening details, names of the Councillor conducting the opening, Councillors, and CEO, along with the Council logo. These are made using good-quality materials like aluminium or brass, with full content details in the Appendices.
• Plaques must be no larger than 380mm x 280mm. Type 1 plaques are rectangular, while circular plaques are suggested for Type 2 open space projects. They must use weather-resistant materials, with indoor plaques installed indoors. Placement must be accessible and secure to prevent theft or damage.
• For projects with specific funding agreement requirements, a separate sign will be created to align with the agreement and displayed at the event, while the formal plaque will adhere to this policy's guidelines.

The plaque development process involves three steps:

Drafting: The project sponsor prepares the content following Section 5 and Appendix 1 or 2 of the policy.

Reviewing: The draft is reviewed by the sponsor's Coordinator for policy compliance, with revisions made as needed.

Approving: The final draft is reviewed by the sponsor’s Manager and then approved by the Director. Any deviations require CEO approval before manufacturing.

Once approved, the plaque is fabricated as per material and design specifications. The project manager oversees installation, ensuring proper placement. If damaged or stolen, a secure alternative location is chosen. A final inspection ensures correct installation and accessibility.

Plaques undergo regular inspections to maintain their condition. Damaged or vandalised plaques are repaired or replaced, and removal requires approval from the Director of Infrastructure and City Services to preserve historical records.

The cost of all commemorative events and plaques covered by this policy are funded through the capital works project budget; included in the overall project planning and funding process.

This policy is subject to review every four years, or earlier if necessary.