The 2025-26 City budget is investing in the green behind the gold with $245 million for projects that protect our environment and ensure a sustainable future.
The City will continue to fund our ongoing conservation and environmental initiatives as well as investing in new sustainable projects such as the waste to energy plant, helping us divert waste from landfill and produce clean energy.
"Gold Coasters love to be outdoors which is why we are continuing the invest in our waterways, lakes, coastal areas, beaches and conservation areas," Mayor Tom Tate said.
"In 2025-26 we are investing in further land acquisitions for wildlife corridors and parks to help reach our target of 51 per cent native vegetation cover.
This budget provides for our more than 465 conservation parks and more than 4000 hectares of land under active restoration.
"The City is continuing to respond to the challenges of Tropical Cyclone Alfred and this budget provides not only for projects which will help repair the environment but also build resilience for the future."
The City is planning for the future by investing $120.6 million in the Advance Resource Recovery Centre which will convert waste to clean energy and help divert waste from landfill.
The environmental initiatives are done in collaboration with community groups and volunteers who all play a vital role in protecting the Gold Coast's natural areas and wildlife.
The Gold Coast is one of the most biodiverse cities in Australia and has more than 3100 species of native animals.
GREEN SPACE AND ENVIRONMENT INVESTMENT HIGHLIGHTS
- Community parks – $150 million
- Environmental/Natural Areas Conversation – $54 million
- Beaches and waterways – $29 million
- Vector, Urban Pest and Biosecurity – $8 million
- Catchment Management – $3 million
- Climate resilience – $1 million
