Meander Valley Council Adopts 2026-27 Budget Focused on Financial Sustainability and Community Investment

Mayor Wayne Johnston said the budget reflects a balanced and responsible approach.

“This budget strikes a practical balance between keeping rates as affordable as possible while continuing to deliver the services and infrastructure our community relies on.”

KEY POINTS

• An overall general rate increase of 4.9%, below current inflation measures. 
• A fully funded $17.96 million capital works program, investing in community infrastructure and asset renewal. 
• Property valuations updated by the Office of the Valuer‑General, with individual rate impacts varying based on changes in property values. 
• A major upgrade of core information technology systems to replace ageing platforms to improve efficiency and customer service. 
• All existing service levels maintained, with no reduction in service delivery.

Sustainable Financial Position
The 2026-27 Budget includes an underlying operating deficit of $794,800. This result reflects a deliberate and temporary investment in one-off projects and strategic initiatives, rather than an ongoing structural imbalance.

Excluding these items, Council’s ongoing operations are forecast to return a modest underlying surplus of approximately $156,100, confirms the core financial position remains sound.

Council’s Long Term Financial Plan 2027-2036 forecasts a return to consistent operating surpluses over time, ensuring intergenerational equity and financial resilience.

Rates and Cost Pressures
The 4.9% average rate increase responds to rising costs across labour, materials and contracts, while maintaining investment in essential infrastructure.

Changes in property valuations will result in different outcomes for individual ratepayers. Following recent revaluations, residential, commercial and industrial properties are likely to experience increases above the average, while some primary production properties may see lower increases.

These changes reflect shifts in relative property values (Assessed Annual Values), as determined by the Office of the Valuer‑General.

Looking Ahead
Council’s Long Term Financial Plan 2027–2036 confirms that the organisation remains in a sustainable financial position, provided prudent decision‑making continues.

Mayor Johnston said Council remains committed to transparency and responsible 
financial planning.

“We are planning for the long term, ensuring the community continues to receive essential services while maintaining a financially sustainable Council.”