Devonport City Council will consider the adoption of its 2026/27 Annual Plan and Budget at next Monday’s Council meeting, setting out a responsible and forward-looking program of investment in infrastructure, essential services, community wellbeing and city growth.
The Budget includes a $33.4 million capital works program and $58.01 million in operational expenditure, reflecting Council’s commitment to delivering the services, facilities and amenities that support a thriving, liveable and prosperous city.
Mayor Alison Jarman said the Budget struck an important balance between investing in Devonport’s future and managing the cost-of-living pressures facing households.
“This Budget is about delivering for our community – investing in the projects, services and facilities that matter, while maintaining a strong and sustainable financial position,” Mayor Jarman said.
“We are continuing to back Devonport’s future with major investments such as the new Devonport Indoor Sports Stadium, while also supporting the essential services, local facilities and community experiences that residents value every day.”
The 2026/27 Budget includes an overall 4.75 per cent increase in the General Rate. Changes in property valuations will mean the increase is felt differently across property classes, with a greater impact on residential properties and a lesser impact on commercial, industrial and primary production property classes.
For the average residential property, the General Rate will increase by $114 for the year. Together with a $25 increase to the Waste Management Service Charge and adjustments to the State Government Fire and Waste Levies, the overall increase for the average residential property will be approximately $3.23 per week.
Mayor Jarman said Council had worked hard to keep the increase moderate while protecting service delivery and making sensible long-term investments.
“We understand that many households are under pressure, and we have taken a measured approach to this year’s Budget,” Mayor Jarman said.
“Our focus has been on keeping rates manageable while ensuring we continue to maintain the infrastructure, services and public spaces our community relies on.”
The General rate increase is below the most recent Hobart CPI figure of 5.0% (annual change to 30 April) and maintains the Councils consistent trend of below inflation increases over the last decade.
Council’s financial outlook remains strong, with estimated income of $59.34 million and an anticipated operating surplus of $1.33 million. After adjusting for Council’s non-cash share of profit from the Dulverton Regional Waste Management Authority, the underlying surplus is expected to be around $308,000.
The centrepiece of the 2026/27 capital program is Council’s continued investment in the Devonport Indoor Sports Stadium Project, with $24 million (inclusive of Government funding) allocated towards completing construction of the new facility.
The project remains on track for completion by mid-2027 and represents one of the largest infrastructure investments in the city’s history, delivering long-term benefits for sport, recreation, community participation and regional economic activity.
Council will also continue investing in key community facilities, including $1.325 million for improvements at Splash Aquatic Centre, made up of:
- $1 million for replacement of the pool water heating system;
- $200,000 for extension of the Aquatic Centre car park; and
- $125,000 for replacement of the Centre’s HVAC system.
The Budget also includes a range of projects designed to improve connectivity, safety and liveability across Devonport, including:
- $300,000 for path link improvements between Tarleton Street, Anchor Drive and Reg Hope Park;
- $200,000 for upgrades to roads, drainage and signage at the Spreyton Resource Recovery and Reuse Centre;
- $100,000 for traffic management improvements at the Elizabeth Street-Formby Road intersection;
- $63,000 for a fenced off-leash dog exercise area at the East Devonport Foreshore; and
- $60,000 for refurbishment of public toilets at Mersey Vale Memorial Park.
In addition to capital investment, the Budget provides for the continued delivery of the broad range of services expected in a vibrant regional city.
Maintaining Devonport’s network of 533 kilometres of roads, footpaths and shared pathways remains Council’s largest expense, accounting for 22 per cent of total expenditure.
Council will also continue to invest heavily in public open spaces, including the maintenance of 63 parks and reserves and 14 sporting grounds, helping preserve the lifestyle and recreational opportunities valued by the community.
Waste management remains a significant priority, with continued investment in recycling and resource recovery initiatives that support environmental sustainability and deliver long-term community benefit.
The Budget also maintains strong support for arts, culture and community events, with 12 per cent of total rate revenue allocated to activities that contribute to Devonport’s vibrancy, identity and visitor economy, including funding for the bi-annual TSO Waterfront concert and the popular new year’s event, “Eve in the City”.
Mayor Jarman said the 2026/27 Annual Plan and Budget demonstrated Council’s commitment to responsible financial management and long-term planning.
“This is a Budget that invests in people, places and opportunity,” Mayor Jarman said.
“From major regional infrastructure through to local community improvements, every investment has been carefully considered to help build a stronger, more connected and more prosperous Devonport.”
“Importantly, we are doing so from a position of financial strength, ensuring Council remains sustainable and well placed to meet future challenges and opportunities.”
The 2026/27 Annual Plan and Budget is available on Council’s website.
