Draft Budget Estimates Consultation
Latrobe Council has released its Draft 2026-27 Budget Estimates, outlining a balanced approach to maintaining essential services, investing in infrastructure and managing cost pressures in a challenging economic environment.
Mayor Peter Freshney said the draft budget had been developed during a period of significant global uncertainty, with rising costs continuing to impact both Council operations and the broader community.
“Like households, Council is facing increasing costs across materials, services and infrastructure delivery. This budget reflects a careful balance between maintaining service levels, investing in our growing community, and minimising the impact on ratepayers.”
The draft budget forecasts an operating surplus of $2.1 million and an underlying surplus of $170,000.
While the underlying surplus is modest, Council has deliberately prioritised limiting rate increases and maintaining services. “This was a conscious decision; Council could have increased rates further or reduced services instead we’ve taken a balanced approach that supports our community while maintaining our financial sustainability.”
Council is proposing a $7.5 million capital works program, which includes $4.1 million of new works and $3.4 million in carried-forward projects. This investment will support the maintenance and upgrade of key community assets across the municipality.
The draft budget proposes a general rate increase of 5.8 percent and an increase in the waste management charges of 10 percent. The general rate increase considers the expected CPI plus a growth component aimed at strengthening the council’s long-term financial capacity. The waste charge increase is largely driven by the significant rise in the state government’s waste levy.
“For most ratepayers, the overall impact is expected to be around a 7 percent increase on total rates payable compared to last year” Mayor Freshney said.
Council is now seeking community feedback on its draft budget estimates. “We encourage all residents and stakeholders to review the draft budget and have their say. Community input is an important part of the process before the budget is finalised by the council.”
Submissions can be made via council’s website or in writing by Friday 15 May 2026.
Council will consider all feedback before adopting its 2026-27 Annual Plan and Budget Estimates at its 22 June 2026 meeting.