The City of Kingston is looking forward to another year of strong delivery for our community.
With financial responsibility at its core and informed by deep community consultation, our 2023-24 budget features a substantial capital works program focused on providing first-class infrastructure and top-quality facilities and an ongoing commitment to our highly utilised community services.
Mayor Hadi Saab thanked all those who provided input either via our new year-round Talking Kingston platform, or during the draft exhibition period either in writing or in-person at our extraordinary council meeting.
"We are really fortunate to represent such a passionate and engaged community and we have received some tremendously thoughtful submissions that were all considered in the budget development process," Cr Saab said.
"While it isn't possible to include every suggestion in the budget, we believe it balances the needs of our entire community and it will help build an even stronger, healthier, and more connected city.
"Importantly, it has been prepared in line with Council's commitment to sustainable budgeting, responsible financial management and the State Government's rate cap of 3.5% and features a small surplus and substantial cost of living considerations.
"We are acutely aware that many in our community are under financial stress and therefore along with offering deferral and flexible payments options, we have also committed to providing aged and disability services to all regardless of ability to pay and 12 months of learn to swim classes to families in hardship.
"I'm excited to be part of building a Kingston we can be proud of as we strive for resilience, inclusivity, and diversity, and become the most liveable and sustainable city in Victoria."
Key budget features:
- $1.08 million surplus
- $53 million capital works spend including:
- $7.6 million for local roads
- $4.8 million for the Dingley Village Stage 2 works to progress the delivery of an intergenerational community hub
- $4.4 million to progress the new pavilion at Regents Park in Aspendale
- $4.0 million to progress Kingston's new district-level Aquatic and Leisure Centre
- $2.5 million for drainage flood mitigation
- Includes substantial cost of living considerations
- 3.5% rate rise (well below inflation)
Read the full 2023-24 budget at kingston.vic.gov.au/budget
