Budget delivers stable finances and community support

Halving the residential rates cap to lessen the impact of land valuation increases and increased pensioner rates concessions are among the key features of the Fraser Coast Regional Council’s 2024/25 budget.

Deputy Mayor Paul Truscott said this year’s budget was challenging, with Council determined to remain financially sustainable while also delivering the services and infrastructure the community needs now and into the future.

“As every household or business knows, everything is costing more. Council has had the double whammy of increased costs and reduced government grants,” he said.

“Our expenses are increasing much more than the inflation rate due to the specific types of goods and services we need. For example, the cost of building a road has nearly doubled.

“Despite these challenges, Council remains focused on delivering essential services like water, waste and roads as efficiently as possible, effectively managing and maintaining our assets, and planning for the future to meet the unique needs of our rapidly growing community.

“To assist the most vulnerable in our community, Council is increasing the pensioner rates concession from $175 a year to $200 a year.

“We’ve also almost halved our residential rates cap.  With land valuations going up an average of 38 per cent on the Fraser Coast this year, halving the residential rates cap will lessen the impact of land valuations on general rate increases.

“Council has 55 different rating categories so the changes to rates bills vary from property to property. 

“For the vast majority of residential homes, the increase to the total bill – including general rates, levies, and water and waste charges where applicable – will be between $2.15 and $7.42 a week.”

Cr Truscott said Council’s total budget would be $477 million in 2024/25, which included $190 million in capital works projects.

“We’re delivering new and improved roads and footpaths, upgrading water and sewerage networks, and investing in recreational facilities like parks, pools and community venues to maintain and enhance our region’s lifestyle,” he said.

“Council will continue to support our local community groups and those in need through our grants programs, and pensioner and other concessions, valued at about $7.8 million.”

Key highlights of Council’s 2024/25 budget include: 
•    $103 million for roads, bridges, footpaths, coastal protection, and drainage;
•    $151 million for water, waste and sewerage;
•    $52 million for economic development and major projects;
•    $46 million for parks, pools and playgrounds; and
•    $15 million for arts and cultural facilities.

More information about the Fraser Coast Regional Council 2024/25 budget is available on Council’s website at www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/budget