Council's Draft Annual Business Plan 2025-26 Now Open for Community Comment
Some of the key budget items for the coming year are:
- Finalisation of flood recovery projects
- Road works including re-sheeting and re-seals
- Loxton and Waikerie Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrades
- Significant increase in footpath, kerbing and walking trail projects
- Community event and project support
“The challenges facing our region remain significant, with rising living costs, ongoing economic uncertainty, and the continued impact of drought on our agricultural sector. These pressures are compounded by persistently low wine grape prices, which are placing strain on one of our most vital local industries. In response, Council has adopted a considered and community-focused approach to its 2025-26 Annual Business Plan.
This year’s rate rise has been limited to 2.5% - a modest increase that reflects our commitment to maintaining essential services and infrastructure, while recognising the financial strain many households and businesses are experiencing. Our plan prioritises responsible spending, operational efficiency, and transparent governance to ensure we meet community needs without adding undue burden.”
David Beaton - Chief Executive Officer
“In this challenging economic environment, we remain determined to manage our resources prudently while continuing to invest in the infrastructure, services, and local projects that matter most to our residents. This plan reflects our efforts to strike that balance - delivering value, maintaining community assets, and supporting growth where it’s needed most.”
Trevor Norton - Mayor
Council remains committed to financial sustainability. The Draft Annual Business Plan outlines an operating surplus of $30,000, reflecting a balanced budget while delivering a capital works program valued at $15.734 million. Council's key financial performance indicators demonstrate that it is operating within or exceeding the established parameters.
The Draft Plan will open to the public for feedback on Wednesday 14 May 2025 until 5pm
Wednesday 4 June 2025. Copies of the plan are available:
- Online at https://engagement.lwdc.sa.gov.au
- By email at council@lwdc.sa.gov.au
- At our offices and libraries located at:
- Loxton Council Office - 35 Bookpurnong Terrace Loxton
- Waikerie Civic Centre – Strangman Road Waikerie
- Loxton library & Visitor Centre – East Terrace Loxton
A public meeting will be held 7pm Thursday 29 May 2025, providing the opportunity to hear directly from the Council and staff about the plan, ask any questions and share feedback. The meeting will take place at The Precinct in Loxton, and online via Zoom (with the link to be published on Council’s website and social media). The Waikerie Council Chamber will also be set up to accommodate any community members without internet access.
Council invites the community to submit their feedback by using the online form available on https://engagement.lwdc.sa.gov.au or by submitting written feedback by email, post or in person.
A report containing all submissions on the Draft Annual Business Plan 2025-26 will be presented to the public Council meeting held Wednesday 18 June 2025.