The City of Perth has adopted a $321.5 million budget for 2026/27, investing in the services, infrastructure and public spaces that support the hundreds of thousands of people who live, work, study, invest in and visit Perth every day.
At a Special Council Meeting on 22 July, Council adopted a rates yield* increase of 2.45 per cent.
Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds said Council had carefully considered the impact of this year's Landgate property revaluation when setting rates.
"This Budget is about striking the right balance," Mr Reynolds said.
"It reflects careful financial management, responds to the priorities of our community and continues building a capital city that future generations will be proud to inherit.
"We recognise the cost-of-living pressures facing households and businesses, and have worked hard to smooth the impact of the revaluation year, while delivering a balanced and responsible budget that invests in the infrastructure, services and public spaces that keep Perth moving forward.
"Like every organisation, the City is facing rising costs to build, maintain and operate essential infrastructure and services.
"Despite those pressures, we have remained focused on delivering value for our community and continuing to invest in Perth's future."
This year's $57.9 million capital works program continues the City's strong focus on renewing and maintaining an extensive network of public infrastructure, including 110 kilometres of roads, 72 kilometres of paths, 43 parks and reserves, 11 kilometres of river foreshore and more than 16,500 park and street trees.
This includes $4.5 million to continue the Two-Way Street Program, with the upgrade between William Street and Elder Street scheduled to start in January 2027.
The works will improve traffic flow and safety for pedestrians and cyclists, as well as better access to parking, new traffic signals and upgraded pram ramps.
An $800,000 investment will support the implementation of the City's Bike and Walk and Public Open Space plans, helping create a more connected, accessible and vibrant city centre that is more welcoming and easier to navigate.
A $2.5 million allocation will see the Supreme Court Gardens upgrade completed in 2026/27. The $6.2 million project will enhance the iconic gardens' role as a premier events destination while improving accessibility and amenity for the community.
The first stage of the James Street revitalisation will receive $250,000. This $23 million project will deliver a greener, safer and more pedestrian-friendly environment that better supports local businesses, everyday activity and major events in Northbridge.
A further $14.6 million will be spent on building renewals, including upgrades to Perth Town Hall's undercroft area. Set to start in 2027, the project will enhance the space to support a greater range of events while preserving the heritage of the iconic landmark.
The Claisebrook Cove public realm upgrade will receive $6.1 million and a $550,000 boost for the Urban Forest Program will help create a cooler, greener city.
Keeping our community safe is a key focus of the budget, with a $4.2 million boost for street lighting and CCTV infrastructure across the city.
"Importantly, this budget was shaped by conversations with our neighbourhood groups and the wider community," Mr Reynolds said.
"We have worked hard to balance increasing operating costs with value for ratepayers despite external cost pressures, including higher State Government charges, electricity, fuel and insurance costs, and increases to the Emergency Services Levy.
"Perth is entering an exciting period of growth and opportunity. This Budget continues the work of building a cleaner, greener, safer and more connected capital city while laying the foundations for future generations.
"A well-managed capital city gives residents confidence, gives businesses confidence to invest and gives our community confidence in Perth's future."
Council also adopted an updated Corporate Business Plan.
