Council has recorded its first positive operating result in many years, with a surplus of $16.1 million achieved in the 2025-26 financial year.
The result is detailed in Council's audited Financial Statements and Independent Auditor's Reports for the year ending 30 June 2026, which will be presented at the Ordinary Council Meeting on 24 November 2026.
Mayor Patricia White said the result reflected Council's commitment to improving its financial position, paying down debt and continuing to deliver essential services and infrastructure for the community.
"The $16.1 million surplus is an encouraging milestone and demonstrates that the difficult decisions made over recent years are beginning to deliver results," Cr White said.
"While there is still significant work ahead, this result gives Council a stronger foundation as we continue addressing long-term financial and infrastructure challenges.
"I would like to acknowledge the dedication of Councillors and staff who have worked tirelessly throughout the year to support our community and strengthen Council's financial position," she said.
CEO Andrew Constance said the result represented an important step in Council's financial recovery but should not be viewed as the end of the journey.
"We are seeing the green shoots of financial recovery, and this result is an important sign that the work being undertaken to improve Council's financial position is having an impact," Mr Constance said.
'The council team are working around the clock to find efficiencies and save ratepayer dollars in a tight fiscal environment. I particularly want to thank our Director of City Performance Katie Buckman and CFO Matt Badcock and his team for leading our financial recovery," he said.
"Council has faced serious financial challenges in recent years, including very large operating deficits, debt at unacceptable levels and limited capacity to respond to unexpected costs. While this year's consolidated result is positive, our long-term structural challenges remain.
"Like councils across the country, we are dealing with the growing cost of maintaining infrastructure and delivering services, with those costs continuing to outpace available funding," he said.
Mr Constance said achieving long-term financial sustainability will require continued discipline.
"Council will continue advocating strongly for state and federal government investment in road renewal projects while ensuring every dollar we spend delivers the greatest possible value for our community," he said.
Council's audited Financial Statements and Independent Auditor's Reports for the year ended 30 June 2026 will be presented to Council on 24 November 2026 and can be found on Council's website.
