Horsham Rural City Council has endorsed its 2026-27 Budget, marking a significant milestone as the first budget delivered by the Council elected in late 2024, that has been fully shaped by the community’s long-term vision for Horsham.
Mayor Cr Brian Klowss said the Budget represents a clear alignment between Council decisions and the priorities identified by the community.
“This budget is particularly significant as it’s the first delivered by our current Council, directly guided by the Horsham 2041 Community Vision and our Council Plan 2025-2029,” Cr Klowss said.
“Those documents were developed through extensive community engagement, so this budget is a direct reflection of what our community told us matters most, both now and into the future.”
“It gives us a clear roadmap and ensures every decision we make is grounded in the aspirations, priorities and direction our community has set.”
The Budget maintains a strong focus on delivering more than 75 services across Council’s four key themes: liveability, sustainability, accessibility and leadership, while balancing cost pressures and long-term financial sustainability.
We are continuing to ensure delivery of the services people rely on every day, while also investing strategically in our future,” Cr Klowss said.
Operating within the State Government’s 2.75 per cent rate cap, Council has worked to minimise impacts on residents.
“We are very mindful of cost-of-living pressures. That’s why we’ve maintained our Council-funded $50 pensioner rebate and kept the municipal charge at $200,” said Cr Klowss.
A $24.119 million capital works program will support new infrastructure, upgrades and renewals across the municipality.
“This budget continues to invest strongly in our community, with projects like the Wesley Performing Arts Centre refurbishment and key lighting upgrades in our rural communities,” said Cr Klowss.
Council has also addressed increasing costs in waste services while continuing to seek efficiencies and promote waste reduction.
The Budget has been carefully developed to ensure long-term financial sustainability, supported by strong cash management and planning.
“We’ve taken a balanced and responsible approach, maintaining services, investing in infrastructure, and ensuring we remain financially sustainable,” said Cr Klowss.
“Importantly, we’ve also set clear performance measures so we can transparently report back to our community on our progress.”
Cr Klowss said the Budget reflects a strong partnership between Council and the community.
“This is your budget, shaped by your input, guided by your vision, and focused on delivering outcomes that matter to Horsham,” said Cr Klowss.
“We’re proud to present a plan that not only meets today’s needs but sets a strong foundation for the future.”
