Budget adopted to deliver services, infrastructure and financial stability
Strathbogie Shire Council has adopted its 2026–27 Budget, prioritising essential services, infrastructure renewal and responsible financial management during a challenging economic
climate.
The Budget was adopted at Council’s meeting following a comprehensive community consultation process.
Mayor Cr Scott Jeffery said the Budget reflected Council’s commitment to delivering services that matter most to the community, while ensuring the Shire remained financially sustainable
into the future.
“Cost of living pressures continue to impact our community, and Council is not immune to these challenges,” Mayor Jeffery said.
“Rising costs for materials, fuel and labour, increased inflation and the ongoing impacts of natural disasters continue to place significant pressure on Council’s finances.
“This Budget makes responsible decisions to ensure we continue delivering essential services while investing in the infrastructure our communities rely on.”
The 2026–27 Budget delivers an underlying operating surplus of $2.007 million and supports Council’s commitment to responsible financial management outlined in the Council Plan 2025–29.
The surplus is needed to fund capital works, strengthen Council’s medium-term financial position, rebuild cash reserves given recovery funding gaps and ensure Council can provide necessary co-contributions for future grant applications.
Council has adopted a continuous improvement approach, with more than 80 services and all projects reviewed to identify cost savings, efficiencies and opportunities to make the best
use of ratepayer funds.
The Budget includes a 2.75 per cent increase in the average rate per property, consistent with the Victorian Government’s Fair Go Rates system.
Mayor Jeffery said Council had worked to balance the impact on ratepayers with the need to continue maintaining critical services and community assets.
“Roads, bridges, buildings, community facilities, sporting facilities and open spaces are at the heart of a thriving community,” Mayor Jeffery said.
“We have made a deliberate decision to focus on core services and infrastructure that provide the greatest benefit for our residents.”
The Budget also recognises the ongoing financial impacts of repeated natural disasters, including floods, drought and the January 2026 Longwood fire.
While Council continues to advocate to State and Federal Governments for long-term disaster recovery support, the Budget reflects uncertainty around future funding and potential unrecovered recovery costs.
Mayor Jeffery thanked residents who contributed to the Budget process.
“Community feedback plays an important role in helping Council understand local priorities,” Mayor Jeffery said.
“Delivering a sustainable future for Strathbogie Shire remains our priority, and this Budget reflects the careful decisions required to support our community now and into the future.”
The adopted Budget 2026–27 and Fees and Charges 2026–27 will be available on Council’s website. For more information visit www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au or call 1800 065 993.