Council & Politics
2 May, 2026
Council still considering monitor’s direction in next budget
Council has said the 2026/27 Draft Budget has been developed in line with the recommendations of the Municipal Monitors report, including the direction that Council must maintain cash neutrality to ensure financial sustainability.
BULOKE Shire Council has been as “responsible as we can be” with the drafting of its next budget.
Unanimously endorsed to be released to the public for feedback at its last council meeting, mayor Graeme Milne said this was the best they could do “under the circumstances we find ourselves in”, referring to the municipal monitor appointed in 2024.
“There are some suggestions in there from the minister after the monitoring,” Cr Milne said.
Council has said the 2026/27 Draft Budget has been developed in line with the recommendations of the Municipal Monitors report, including the direction that Council must maintain cash neutrality to ensure financial sustainability.
Key highlights of the draft budget include:
A proposed 2.75% increase in general rates and the municipal charge, consistent with the Victorian Government’s rate cap
A projected surplus of $31.8 million, largely due to potential disaster recovery grants
AdvertisementAn underlying operating deficit in line with previous years
A $49.6 million capital works program, including $33 million in carry forward projects
Submissions must be received in writing no later than 5.00pm on Thursday, May 7.
A public submissions hearing will then take place in Wycheproof on Monday, May 25.
Peter Harriott advised and supported council for seven months to ensure stability for the council in the lead up to and following the October 2024 elections.
View the document on council’s website.
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