The City of Perth has delivered the lowest rate rise across the Perth metropolitan area after passing a budget focused on community and future growth.
City of Perth Budget 2023/24: Delivering for today. Investing in tomorrow.
The $297.87 million budget funds a $58.07 million capital works program whilst ensuring key services to keep our streets and public spaces safe, clean and well-maintained continue to be delivered above and beyond the standard expected by the community.
Lord Mayor Basil Zempilas said a key focus of this year's budget was population growth – and how the City can accelerate residential development to attract thousands more people to live in or near the CBD.
"Western Australia has the highest population growth in the country. We are ensuring the City of Light is an attractive option for people to come and live, with vibrant neighbourhoods, plenty of green space and a wealth of opportunity," Mr Zempilas said.
"We have really focussed on meeting the evolving needs of a growing capital city in this budget. We consulted heavily with businesses and neighbourhood groups to prioritise key areas of focus," he said.
"We are investing $20 million to cement the City's reputation as the events capital of Western Australia, sponsor unique initiatives that will revitalise our City and help businesses grow through our grants program.
"It also includes $3 million to market our city and attract more visitors," he said.
Another $4.5 million has been set aside for street lighting and electrical projects and $2.0 million to upgrade our bus stops, with another $17 million to be invested in public safety and community services.
"We're also committing more than $30 million for sustainable initiatives, preserving our trees and parks, and improving the way we use energy and water, as well as deal with our waste," Mr Zempilas said.
"Importantly, we've been able to deliver all of this in the face of rising costs, while keeping rate increases to a minimum. In fact, nearly 60% of all properties will have an increase of less than 2.45%, which is well below inflation. 28% of ratepayers will have a decrease.
"We are proud to be doing our bit to limit pressure on our ratepayers during these tough financial times without compromising on the City's needs," he said.
This year's rates calculations take into account Landgate's three-yearly revaluation of rental values for all properties.
"We've avoided applying a blanket increase in rates by using financial modelling that enables us to distribute the rates yield more equitably, making it as fair as we possibly can," Mr Zempilas said.
"In addition, we have critically reviewed all operating expenses and invested in smarter technologies and other revenue sources to ensure our capital city is set up for the future.
"We keep our community at the forefront of all we do. Through robust financial management, we are creating a liveable, prosperous and sustainable city, with a vibrant, connected community not just now but for generations to come.
"There's something for everyone in the City of Light. And the future is looking even brighter for one of the world's most liveable cities," he said.
Budget highlights
- $297.87 million total budget
- $178.61 million key programs and services
- $58.07 million capital expenditure, including asset renewals and the creation of new assets
- Increase in overall rates yield minimised to 2.45%
Core Services, Programs and Operating Project Expenditure
- $35.0 million to maintain roads, paths, lighting and City facilities and other infrastructure
- $17.7 million for rubbish collection, street cleaning and recycling
- $13.4 million to maintain parks and gardens, including street trees and reticulation
- $11.6 million to attract more people to the City through events, marketing and other activations
- $8.4 million for sponsorships and grants to support local businesses and initiatives $7.7 million for City future master planning and economic development
Capital Expenditure
- $17.8 million for the development of an aquatic facility at the WACA ground and redevelopment of Perth Concert Hall under City Deal
- $15.7 million for building renewals, including Langley Park changeroom and Perth Library façade works
- $7.9 million for CBD transport projects, including new cycleways and improved pedestrian access
- $4.5 million to upgrade street lighting at Wellington Square, Adelaide Tce, Crawley and East Perth
