Before Council starts preparing its first draft of the 2024-2025 Budget, we are seeking valuable insights on which council service areas community members would allocate $100 towards.
Through our interactive have your say page, community members can choose from 11 areas such as:
- leisure, recreation and sport
- environment, climate action and natural resources and
- roads and bridges
and tell us what services you particularly value.
This engagement is crucial as the City uses rates to fund essential services such as recycling and waste collections, road network maintenance, child and family services, park upkeep, major events, and environmental conservation.
The page also features a breakdown of how every $100 in council rates will be spent in the 2023-2024 Budget.
Residents are encouraged to share their perspectives on the 2024-2025 Council Budget by visiting the have your say page and giving feedback before 11:59pm on Sunday 17 December 2023. For those community members who have already made submissions to the budget process, we thank you for your feedback which will remain part of our budget conversations.
It is essential to note that the City must fund all services to some degree, making community input vital in understanding priorities.
The data collected will form a shortlist for council to review in March 2024.
Mayor Trent Sullivan
We made changes to last year’s Proposed Budget as a result of community consultation – you spoke and we listened.
In light of financial constraints, we recognise the importance of involving the community in decisions that impact us all.
Your input is invaluable as we strive to ensure our budget aligns with the priorities that matter most to you.
Councillor Bruce Harwood – Chair of the High Performing Council portfolio
Navigating rising costs and a cap on council income from rates over the past few years means we need to carefully allocate funds to meet the community’s evolving needs.
We want to hear directly from our community about their preferences as this will guide us in determining the most impactful initiatives to enhance our city.
Make your voice heard and play a role in shaping the future of our community.
Together, let’s ensure that the 2024-2025 Council Budget resonates with the values and aspirations of our diverse residents.
