Albury City Council has released its draft budget for 2026-2027, outlining a strategic approach to delivering essential services and infrastructure while responding to ongoing economic pressures.
The community is invited to provide feedback on the Draft Delivery Program and Operational Plan 2026 – 2030, and the Draft Long-Term Financial Plan, which will be on public exhibition for 28 days.
Mayor, Kevin Mack said the plans support the city’s continued growth while maintaining financial sustainability.
“While our financial position is stabilising, rising costs continue to place pressure on Council. At the same time, investment in essential infrastructure remains critical,” said Mayor Mack.
The Draft Delivery Program & Operational Plan 2026 – 2030 includes $638 million in proposed projects, with a strong focus on water and wastewater infrastructure to support population growth and future demand.
“To support a growing community, we need reliable and resilient water and wastewater systems. These projects are essential to public health, development and long-term capacity,” said the Mayor.
Key projects include:
- Waterview – Stage Two Wastewater Treatment Plant – $120.3M
- Main Sewer Pump Station Upgrade and New Rising Main (Wodonga Place Depot) – $88.5M
- Riverina Highway Sewer Infrastructure – $49.65M
- Water Supply and Feed Pipelines for Thurgoona Main Project – $36.8M
- Albury Entertainment Centre Convention Wing redevelopment – $36M ($25M grant funding)
- Thurgoona Link Road (Stages 1 – 4) $34.3M
- Thurgoona Link Road (Stage 5) – $2.7M
- Albury Animal Care Centre Redevelopment – $6.5M
- Oddies Creek Park Play Space – Splash Park – $5M ($2.5M grant funding)
A range of other major investments in water supply and sewer infrastructure will support growth in Thurgoona Wirlinga, the Mayor said.
The Thurgoona Link Road is a key part of this growth, providing a major connection between the Thurgoona Wirlinga area – expected to reach 50,000 residents over the next 50 years – and the broader Albury region. The road will link Elizabeth Mitchell Drive to Kerr Road, connecting to the Hume Freeway at Davey Road, and will be delivered in five stages, subject to environmental and heritage approvals.
To support these investments, a 3.6% increase in ordinary rates is proposed, in line with the IPART rate peg – equating to around $1.04 per week for the average household. An 8% increase in water and sewer charges is also proposed to fund critical upgrades, with waste charges also increasing by 12.5% due to increases in the cost of the service.
In line with the Financial Sustainability Improvement Plan 2024–2028, Council is considering the potential for a Special Rate Variation (SRV) – an increase in rate income above the rate peg – to help fund asset renewals and maintain services. Community engagement will be a key part of this process, with feedback helping to inform a final decision later in 2026.
Mayor Mack said councils across NSW are facing similar financial challenges but remained confident in AlburyCity’s approach.
“With careful planning, strong community engagement and financial discipline, we can meet these challenges and continue delivering long-term value,” he said.
The draft plans will be available for public comment via the Engaging Albury website from today, with submissions closing on Friday 22 May.
Community members are also invited to Community Presentations to find out more about the draft 2025/26 Budget. Visit the Engaging Albury website for details.
Printed copies will also be available at the AlburyCity Council offices (Kiewa Street), Albury LibraryMuseum and the Lavington Library.
