Council & Politics
25 June, 2026
Future planning for Charlton Hall in next Buloke council budget
Councillors also highlighted key challenges including waste management reform, community safety initiatives, the future planning of Charlton Hall and the financial pressures facing rural councils due to ongoing cost shifting from other levels of government.
BULOKE Shire Council’s newly adopted budget outlines a responsible and sustainable financial plan aligned with Council Plan 2025–2029.
Adopted at it’s monthly meeting, council says it is built on the principle of cash neutrality, the budget balances community expectations with the realities facing rural local government while providing a clear roadmap for service delivery, asset management and community investment over the next four years.
Mayor Cr Graeme Milne said the budget had been developed amid ongoing recovery from multiple emergency events and the significant financial burden associated with restoring flood-damaged roads.
He reinforced Council’s commitment to advocating for flood recovery funding.
“Since the October 2022 floods, Buloke Shire has been recovering from five separate disaster events,” Cr Milne said.
“Our staff have worked tirelessly to advocate for fair and reasonable funding that reflects the scale of damage sustained across our road network and community assets.
“We will continue to advocate strongly, but our patience and our community’s resilience cannot be taken for granted,” he said.
Deputy mayor, Cr Bernadette Hogan said the budget reflected Council’s commitment to responsible financial management while continuing to deliver for the community.
Councillors also highlighted key challenges including waste management reform, community safety initiatives, the future planning of Charlton Hall and the financial pressures facing rural councils due to ongoing cost shifting from other levels of government.
Council also welcomed the attendance of a young nine-year-old community member who interviewed the mayor and deputy mayor following the meeting about the budget and Council decision-making.
Cr Milne said it was encouraging to see younger generations taking an interest in local government and the decisions that will shape their future.
“The questions asked demonstrated genuine curiosity about how Council operates and highlighted the importance of transparency, collaboration and ensuring future generations have a voice in the decisions we make today,” he said.
“One of the most rewarding parts of local government is seeing members of our community, particularly young people, take an interest in the decisions that shape their future.”
Council thanked community members who participated in the Annual Budget Survey and consultation process, as well as staff who contributed to the development of the budget.
The Annual Budget 2026–2027 is available on Council’s website at www.buloke.vic.gov.au/budgets and in hard copy from the Wycheproof Shire Office.
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