Hannah Hammoud
Brimbank residents can expect an average rate rise of 2.75 per cent and more than $58 million worth of improvements in the municipality under Brimbank council’s proposed 2024-25 budget.
During a meeting on April 16, council announced a proposed operating budget of $263.2 million to fund 76 diverse services for the community, which includes a capital works program of $58.7 million to provide upgrades to a range of infrastructure and facilities in the municipality.
The proposed capital works budget includes $27.9 million for roads and drainage upgrades; $5.2 million for playgrounds, parks and gardens; $2.1 million on walking and cycling paths; $18.8 million on improvements to community facilities including sports and early learning facilities; $0.9 million on assets including $800,000 for library books; and $3.8 million for the cyclical replacement of plant and vehicle fleet.
Next financial year council proposes to spend an increased amount of $17.6 million, on parks and trees across the municipality as well as $4.6 million towards environmental sustainability and conservation, $10.7 million for road maintenance and cleansing services, $3.4 million on statutory planning and, $2.6 million for animal management across Brimbank.
Council said the state government’s introduction of a cap on rate increases in 2016-17 has since posed “significant challenges” to the way services and infrastructure are funded and delivered. Council said the cap for 2024-25 has been set at 2.75 per cent, and is set “well below” the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
Mayor Ranka Rasic said the draft budget represents part of council’s “collective progress” towards a transformed Brimbank that is “beautiful, thriving, healthy and connected”.
“We’re asking the community to tell us what projects are important to you. Please take this opportunity to have your say and share your ideas,” Cr Rasic said.
“Making Brimbank better is a team effort, and you can help us create a city we can be proud of together.”
The draft budget is available for online submissions and feedback until May 16.
Details: yoursay.brimbank.vic.gov.au/
