A bumper $224.8 million budget – our second biggest ever – will continue to drive a once-in-a-generation program of repairs and improvements to our City's infrastructure, programs and services.
Hot on the heels of our record $245.9 million budget in 2024/2025, this year's budget will continue the important work of flood recovery, asset renewal and major project development through the Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants program.
These priorities are outlined in detail in Council's Operational Plan 2025/2026, which was approved by Councillors at June's Council meeting. The Operational Plan is Council's action plan for achieving the community priorities outlined in the Community Strategic Plan. It is prepared each year and identifies the projects, programs and activities that Council will fund and deliver across the next 12 months.
Our Operational Plan 2025/2026 was developed through an extensive planning and prioritisation process. It contains 114 key actions for delivery across a wide range of services and work areas, a comprehensive capital works program and annual budget.
Major Operational Plan highlights for 2025/2026 include budgets of:
- $89.4 million on improving local roads and drainage.
- $36 million on upgrading public spaces, parks, sports and recreation facilities.
- $43.3 million on community and culture including local events, our Libraries, Gallery and Museum.
- $41.1 million on waste collection, landfill and sewer.
A significant portion of this year's budget includes funding provided by State and Federal flood recovery programs and the State Government's Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants (WSIG) program. These multi-year projects are major city building projects that will have profound benefits to families and residents of all ages for generations to come. Highlights include:
- Fernadell Park - $8.5 million (multi-year project)
- St Albans Road, St Albans - $6.8 million (multi-year project)
- North Richmond Community Precinct Upgrade - $5.7 million (multi-year project)
- Thomas James Bridge - $5.25 million (multi-year project)
- Cornwallis Road - $5 million (multi-year project)
- Kurmond - Kurrajong Cycleway - $4.1 million (multi-year project)
- Woodbury Reserve - $4 million (multi-year project)
- Cycleway over Rickaby's Creek - $3.6 million (multi-year project)
- Tamplin Field Redevelopment - $3.1 million (multi-year project)
- Turnbull Oval Redevelopment - $2.8 million (multi-year project)
- Hawkesbury Oasis Aquatic and Fitness Centre Improvements - $700,000 (multi-year project)
- Wayfinding and Signage Program - $2.3 million (multi-year project)
- Richmond Swimming Pool Upgrade - $3.2 million (multi-year project)
These projects only represent a portion of the committed budget for this coming financial year. For a full list of commitments, please read the Operational Plan 2025/2026 at www.hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au/your-council/about-council/integrated-planning-and-reporting
With significant projects of this nature, we will be working closely with the Hawkesbury community wherever possible to ensure they have their say and to incorporate their feedback into the final designs to ensure new facilities meet the diverse needs of our residents.
We encourage all residents to regularly visit www.yourhawkesbury-yoursay.com.au, follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/hawkesburycitycouncil and sign-up to our fortnightly Hawkesbury Buzz eNewsletter at www.hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au/link/buzz to stay informed about opportunities to have their say.
