Tara Murray
COVID-19 recovery and investing in the community’s future are the key focuses of Brimbank council’s draft 2021-22 budget.
The council adopted its draft budget last week, with rates likely to raise by an average of 1.5 per cent next financial year.
The increase is in line with the state government’s rates cap and follows a freeze on rates this financial year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ratepayers will pay an average of $1658.13 in rates and charges in 2021-22, based on the municipality’s average residential property value of $585,000.
The council is expecting to raise $166.6 million from rates.
The council is proposing to continue its hardship policy and to fund additional pensioner rebates of $25.
The draft budget includes a capital works program of $82.7 million, with $2.5 million in capital works carrying over from 2020-21.
Mayor Ranka Rasic said the budget prioritised helping the community to recover from COVID-19.
“The health, wellbeing and economic welfare of our residents and community is our priority, and we are committed to delivering a financially responsible budget that supports our community today,” she said.
“Our budget planning continues to reflect the council’s commitment to operate in a financially sustainable and responsible way, all while operating in a rate-capped environment.
“The council remains focused on advocating for government support (both state and federal) to help us deliver high quality services and infrastructure improvements in Brimbank.
“The council will also continue advocating for funding for other key projects to help local economic activity and support our community’s health and wellbeing. The council’s coronavirus (COVID-19) response and recovery strategy continues to lead our recovery efforts and help us rebound from the COVID-19 crisis. “
Cr Bruce Lancashire said the draft budget had been developed in difficult times.
“A zero rate increase by the previous council and rate capping by the state government has added to the financial difficulties framing this draft budget,” he said.
“[But] this budget contains many benefits for the people of Brimbank.”
The council also reviewed councillor allowances as part of the budget process.
The allowances will be in place until 2024, with the mayor to be paid up to $100,434 per annum and councillors to receive $31,444 per annum.
The draft budget will be on public exhibition until May 19 via: yoursay.brimbank.vic.gov.au.
The final budget is due to be considered by council on June 15.
