Blacktown City Council has released its draft 2025/26 Budget, outlining a $767 million plan to deliver essential services and infrastructure in support of a growing city.
Mayor, Brad Bunting said the budget builds on Council’s long-term vision and strong financial foundation, continuing to respond to the pressures of a rapidly growing population and rising costs.
“This Budget is about more than numbers, it’s about building the city that our community needs. From essential services, childcare centres and libraries to roads and parks, we are investing in every corner of our city, for every family, every business, and every future,” said the Mayor.
The draft Budget includes $126 million in capital works, with significant investment in building upgrades, roads, footpaths, and drainage and stormwater infrastructure. These investments support the continued transformation of key precincts across the city.
Council is progressing a number of projects, including the expansion of Kevin Betts Stadium and the delivery of Blacktown Disability Sports Centre, a $15 million facility at the Blacktown International Sports Park. Work also continues on the construction of Ken Birdsey Park in Schofields, with early construction well underway and a delivery partner appointed to bring the 20-hectare precinct to life.
The draft Budget also funds the rollout of the Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) service.
“Council is delivering this new service, a major reform to waste collection, in line with our commitment to sustainability and community wellbeing, helping to reduce landfill, cut emissions, and turn organic waste into compost. FOGO will play a key role in building a cleaner, greener future for Blacktown City,” the Council said in a statement.
“Blacktown City continues to shoulder the growing impacts of cost shifting, rate caps, and restrictions on developer contributions, state-imposed constraints that limit the ability of councils to fund the infrastructure, services, and community facilities that growing populations rely on.
“These pressures are especially challenging in fast-growing cities like Blacktown, where rapid development drives the need for continued investment in roads, parks, pools, libraries, community centres, childcare, and waste services. The North West Growth Area of Blacktown City has a $732 million shortfall in funding for community facilities, due to limits on developer contributions.”
The Council says the draft Budget reflects Council’s responsible approach to financial management and its ongoing advocacy for a fairer funding system, one that gives local government the tools to deliver for its communities now and into the future.
“Through disciplined financial leadership, bold investment, and a deep commitment to our community, this Council is delivering not just infrastructure and services, but working to improve everyday life for the people and businesses who call Blacktown City home, from families and children to workers, students and seniors. Everything we deliver, from roads and libraries to green spaces, revitalised town centres, and civic precincts, is about building a city that serves our people,” Mayor Bunting said.
Blacktown City Council key 2025/26 Budget highlights:
$126 million allocated for major capital works, including:
- $82 million for building improvements
- $22 million for road and footpath upgrades
- $7 million for drainage and stormwater infrastructure
- $6 million to upgrade sporting facilities
- $3 million for land acquisitions in urban release areas.
Funding for core services consisting of:
- $78 million for the operation and management of waste and recycling services
- $59 million for the maintenance of parks, reserves and sporting grounds
- $31 million for the operation of Kids’ Early Learning Centres
- $28 million for customer service and governance functions.
- $26 million for the operation of aquatic centres, community centres and the Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre
- $11 million for Council libraries
Residents are invited to view and provide feedback on the draft Operational Plan and Budget from 13 May to 10 June 2025 at Council’s libraries or online at www.blacktown.nsw.gov.au.
