Circular Head Council is expecting to adopt its 2025–26 Annual Plan and Budget at its upcoming June meeting.
It says the plan outlines a balanced and forward-looking approach that continues investment in essential infrastructure and services, while responding to the needs of a growing and active community.
The Council’s $3.8 million West Esplanade Foreshore Transformation is a centrepiece of this year’s proposed budget, with Council committing $1.9 million toward the project – conditional on securing matching grant funding.
“This is a bold and exciting investment in our waterfront precinct and will provide enormous benefit to local families and visitors alike,” said Mayor, Gerard Blizzard.
“We’ve also proposed continued upgrades to sporting and community facilities across the municipality—improving liveability and supporting healthy, connected communities.”
The budget includes the introduction of a new Food Organics, Garden Organics (FOGO) kerbside collection service for urban areas in Smithton and Stanley. It also proposes major road works, including the $914,000 resurfacing of Nelson Street from Scotchtown Road to Gibson Street, and a $207,000 upgrade to the junction of Church Street and Main Road in Stanley.
Planned investment in recreation and open spaces remains a priority, with funding allocated for a cricket pitch cover and perimeter fencing at Smithton Recreation Ground, kitchen upgrades at Redpa Recreation Ground, shower improvements at Stanley Recreation Ground, and new padding for the basketball stadium.
Strategic planning is also supported through a proposed Master Plan for Green Point Beach Reserve, a signage plan for Council’s open spaces, and actions from the Health and Wellbeing Community Plan. The budget also includes work on a municipal camping strategy.
To support these initiatives, Council has proposed a 4.8% increase in general rate revenue.
Mayor Blizzard said the proposed budget reflects Council’s commitment to delivering sustainable growth, quality services, and long-term planning.
“We understand the pressures faced by our residents and have worked hard to develop a budget that balances affordability with real outcomes. This plan continues to build on the work of recent years, ensuring we are planning for the future while delivering the essentials today,” he said.
Council has forecast an operating loss of $1.4 million for 2025–26. This represents a $600,000 improvement on the $2.0 million deficit previously projected in Council’s Long Term Financial Plan.
As part of its pathway toward greater financial sustainability, Council has also proposed a reduction to the early payment discount on rates from 3.0% to 1.5%. This phased reduction is expected to conclude in 2026–27, with the removal of the discount altogether, the Council stated.
