FOLLOWING community feedback and three Listening Tours, the Mitchell Shire Council (MSC) has released its Draft Budget for 2025/26, as well as the Draft Revenue and Rating Plan.
A budget of $224 million is currently slated for the Mitchell Shire, which will include a projected surplus of $113 million, but adjusted to just over $110,000.
Highlights of the draft budget includes:
$18.53 million to maintaining and improving the road network, $1.34 million to renewing and extending footpaths $4.08 million for the development of community and recreational facilities $16.14 million for the construction, expansion and upgrade of buildings across the Shire.
MSC Chief Executive, Mary Agostino, said in her summary on the Draft Budget their focus for 2025/26 is clear.
“Roads remain a major focus for us this year—we know how important they are to everyday life in our Shire. This budget continues our strong investment in roads and footpaths, while also setting out a clear plan for the next few years. It lines up with our 10-year financial plan to make sure we’re building a sustainable future, both financially and for our growing community,” she said.
Members of the community will have an opportunity to give feedback on the draft budget before it is presented for adoption at the May council meeting, with the Community Questions and Hearings Committee Meeting to be held at 6 pm on Monday, May 12.
Community members who wish to participate in this meeting can do so by registering their interest by 12 pm tomorrow, by calling the MSC Governance team on 5734 6252.
MSC Mayor Councillor John Dougall expressed his appreciation for the community giving feedback throughout the Listening Tours and general meetings.
“We received a wide range of thoughtful and constructive feedback, and we truly appreciate the community taking the time to engage with these important documents,” he said.
“These plans play a big role in shaping how we deliver services and invest in infrastructure across the Shire.
“Hearing directly from our community helps ensure we’re making decisions that reflect local priorities and needs.
“I’d encourage anyone who would like to provide feedback in person to attend the Community Questions and Hearings Committee Meeting. It’s another great way to stay involved in the process.”
Cr Dougall urged patience on his message in the Draft Budget as the MSC continue to navigate extreme growth.
“Like all councils, we’re also grappling with long-term challenges. Mitchell is growing rapidly—among the fastest in the state—and that growth brings both opportunity and pressure. We’re balancing rising costs and growing demand for services and infrastructure, while taking a responsible approach to debt, rates and reserves,” he said.
This budget reflects a careful balance. It meets today’s needs while protecting the long-term health of our balance sheet. It supports financial sustainability and ensures we can continue to deliver for the future, not just the present.
“While our new council plan is still being finalised, the direction is clear. We are focused on growing the economy, enhancing quality of life, developing spaces that enrich everyday life, ensuring good governance and fostering a strong sense of civic pride. This budget is just the beginning of that journey.”
