Strong Foundation Sustainable Future
The plans confirm Council remains financially sustainable both now and into the future, with the capacity to maintain essential services, renew and improve infrastructure, deliver new initiatives and continue investing in community assets. Developed against a backdrop of ongoing economic pressures impacting regional communities, the plans provide a balanced approach to managing rate impacts while supporting future growth and ensuring Council remains financially resilient over the long term.
Annual Business Plan and Budget 2026-27
The Annual Business Plan delivers a balanced operating budget and a capital works program valued at $13.925 million. Key projects and initiatives for 2026-27 include:
- Drogemuller and Heinrich Road Stage 1 Upgrades - $3 million
- Road works including re-sheeting and re-seals - $3.546 million
- Loxton and Waikerie Ramco Shared Path Projects (Stage 2) - $1.131 million
- Footpath, kerbing and walking trail projects - $560,680
- Community event and project support - $212,333
Following consideration of submissions received during the consultation period, the final Annual Business Plan was amended to include three additional capital works projects, one strategic initiative and two community support funding requests.
Council has also maintained its commitment to minimising the burden on ratepayers, with a general rate revenue increase of 3.9 per cent for 2026-27, below the current Consumer Price Index of 4.9 per cent. This represents the fifth time in the past six years Council has kept its rate increase below CPI.
Long Term Financial Plan 2027-2036
The Long Term Financial Plan (Strong Foundation. Sustainable Future) provides a roadmap for Council's financial direction over the next decade and demonstrates Council's ability to remain financially sustainable while maintaining service levels and delivering strategic priorities.
The plan projects operating surpluses throughout its life following a break-even position in this year, with financial sustainability indicators remaining well within target ranges. It also provides for continued investment in infrastructure renewal and community assets, ensuring Council is well positioned to meet the needs of current and future generations.
"These plans provide a clear pathway for the future and demonstrate Council's commitment to supporting a strong and sustainable future for our district. I thank everyone who took the time to provide feedback during the consultation period, which has helped shape the final plans and ensure they continue to reflect the priorities and needs of our communities."
- Mayor Trevor Norton
"Council's long-term financial position remains strong, allowing us to continue investing in infrastructure and essential services while balancing affordability for ratepayers. These plans ensure Council is well placed to respond to future opportunities and challenges while maintaining financial sustainability over the decade ahead."
- David Beaton, Chief Executive Officer
Together, the Annual Business Plan and Long Term Financial Plan (Strong Foundation. Sustainable Future) provide a clear framework for Council to continue delivering infrastructure, services and strategic initiatives that support liveable communities, sustainable growth and a prosperous future across the district.
Following the close of public consultation, Council considered all submissions received from the community before adopting both plans at its meeting held on Wednesday 17 June.
Copies of the endorsed Annual Business Plan and Budget 2026-27 and Long Term Financial Plan 2027-2036 are available on Council's website, via Strategies, Plans and By-Laws.