Wodonga Council is seeking community feedback on its Draft Budget 2025- 2026, which was presented to the council in the Financial and Budget Delegated Committee meeting held on Monday, May 19.
The draft budget includes a rate increase of three per cent, in line with the rate cap set by the Victorian Government.
Wodonga Mayor Cr Michael Gobel revealed that it was a complex task building the budget in the context of today’s challenging economic climate, which includes a cost-of-living crisis, persistent inflationary pressures and global uncertainty.
“While the council pulls every lever available to avoid passing on increased costs to its community, its capacity to effectively provide services is directly impacted by meeting the rate cap,” Cr Gobel said.
The Draft Budget was developed using a rate assumption of three per cent, as resolved in the council’s April meeting.
“The Draft Budget 2025 – 2026 reflects this council’s commitment to responsible financial stewardship, community wellbeing and long-term sustainability,” said Cr Gobel.
“I want to assure the residents that we are maintaining our focus on delivering high-quality services. The budget delivers stability, enables progress and honours the trust placed in us by the community.”
Financial sustainability remains a key theme of the plan, enduring from the council’s 2024 financial sustainability review.
As such, the council continues to implement measures that seek to enhance efficiency and optimise its performance.
There is a $63.20 million investment in services including a $34.03 million program to strengthen the city’s resilience and sustainability through infrastructure that supports community wellbeing and growth.
Other key takeaways in the budget include the delivery of a $26.31 million capital works program spotlighting multiple playground renewals, the completion of the Brockley St bridge replacement project and allow for the upgrade of open spaces across the city.
“Prudent financial management will allow the council to invest in infrastructure, enhance community facilities and deliver services that meet the evolving needs of residents.” Cr Gobel said.
The budget also reflects the council’s ambition to enhance the liveability and connectivity of Wodonga through the provision of funding for several city-building initiatives, subject to partnership opportunities and external funding programs.
Following a hugely successful North East Food and Wine Festival in 2024, the council will once again deliver the event in 2025. Wodonga Seniors Celebrations will also be held again, coinciding with the Victorian Seniors Festival.
“Thoughtful decisions and planning today will create a path to our community’s future success.” Cr Gobel concluded.
The community is welcomed to review, ask questions and provide feedback on the Draft Budget 2025 – 2026 at Make Wodonga Yours from Tuesday, May 20. Consultation will close at 5pm on Monday, June 9.