Greater Shepparton City Council has adopted its 2026/27 Budget at the May Council Meeting, delivering continued growth, financial responsibility and strong investment in the services and infrastructure the community values.
The Budget delivers an operating surplus of $3.68 million, improving on last year's result by $1.51 million. This strong financial forecast includes $3.12 million in strategic land sales and $570,000 in genuine operational savings.
Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, said Council continues to prioritise financial responsibility, ensuring both the organisation and Greater Shepparton are financially sustainable for the year ahead, while reinforcing Greater Shepparton as one of Victoria's most liveable regions.
"The 2026/27 Budget delivers on what we set out to achieve. As Mayor, I lead a culture where Councillors and Executive work together to deliver the best outcomes for our community and prioritise responsible internal management of funds. That is why this Budget delivers another operating surplus and ensures every dollar is spent responsibly," he said.
"Importantly, the surplus consists of $570,000 in genuine operational savings. That means we are now spending less than we earn in day‑to‑day operations. This is a critical milestone, particularly in a time of significant cost increases, which Council is not immune to."
"The Council I lead has made hard decisions which now place us in a financially strong and stable position and allows us to continue investing in our community."
Council continues to invest in the infrastructure that matters to residents. As the region grows, so too will its infrastructure, with the Budget providing $55.2 million for Capital Works.
Seventy-five per cent of the Capital Works program will be directed towards renewing and maintaining existing infrastructure to ensure assets remain safe, fit for purpose and sustainable into the future.
More than half of the Capital Works program will focus on roads, improving connectivity and safety across the municipality. Key projects include upgrades to the Numurkah Road and Hawkins Street intersection, Edgewater Estate, GV Highway and Sanctuary Drive intersection, and the GV Highway and Uptown Development intersection.
"Residents expect investment in safer, more efficient ways to get around our community. This includes improved traffic conditions, enhanced streetscapes, a new Strategic Cycling Corridor and ongoing road maintenance," Cr Sali said.
Key projects funded in the 2026/27 Capital Works program include:
- New retaining walls and tiered standing seating at the Mooroopna Football Netball Club
- A new indoor arena grandstand with accessible seating at the Tatura Park Events and Equestrian Centre
- Restoration of the Heritage Centre Historic Cottage
- Major streetscape renewals along Hare Street, from MacIntosh Street to John Street
- Signalisation of the Numurkah Road and Hawkins Street intersection
- Heritage signage installation at Victoria Park Lake
- Planting of at least 600 new trees as part of Council's Urban Forest Strategy
"This is a Budget that invests in sport, recreation, culture, heritage, environment and sustainability. It reflects the diversity of our community and ensures local priorities are reflected in every dollar spent," Cr Sali said.
The Budget was shaped through extensive community consultation over the past six months. More than 70 submissions were received from individuals and community groups, helping inform Council's final decisions.
"Thank you to everyone who took the time to provide feedback. Your input ensures this Budget reflects the priorities and needs of you, your neighbours and your community," Cr Sali said.
The 2026/27 Budget includes an increase in rates and charges in line with the Victorian Government's 2.75 per cent rate cap.
"Together, we continue to build a Greater Shepparton for the future. We remain committed to preserving a strong financial position, which is the basis for all future decision making and enables Council to continue investing in over 100 services," Cr Sali said.
"This Budget achieves the right balance. With no new borrowings, it provides a strong financial foundation, allowing Council to deliver the services that matter most to our community for years to come."
