Proposed Budget 2021-22 and Revenue and Rating Plan

PROPOSED BUDGET 2021-22,

REVENUE AND RATING PLAN

The Proposed Budget 2021-22 and Revenue and Rating Plan went out for community consultation, from 21 April to 20 May. They were developed to meet the needs of local residents and businesses, recognising the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on our community. Our community’s economic and community recovery is high on the agenda, as is delivering the services and facilities that are important.

With this in mind, Council endeavoured to deliver a budget that is responsible and balanced, provides a strong capital program and is responsive to the growing needs of our community. This has been no easy task – especially given the decision last financial year to implement a zero rates increase to the total rates revenue collected by Council, divert $11 million dollars over two years to COVID relief and a seven million dollar shortfall in revenue. Council’s Proposed Budget invests in a vision for an inclusive, flourishing, progressive city that cares for both its residents and its environment as outlined in our Draft Council Plan 2021-25. We heard through feedback on the Council Plan that our community wants better roads and footpaths and more trees, facilities, amenities, and services – especially for the young, aged and disadvantaged. To receive feedback on the Proposed Budget 2021-22, Revenue and Rating Plan, a live Question and Answer webinar session was held in late April, questions and comments are invited via Council’s online consultation platform yourcityyourvoice.com.au. Additionally, written submissions are invited via the consultation platform, email and the post by 20 May.