Hawkesbury City Council has outlined an ambitious but carefully costed and managed program of roads and infrastructure improvements alongside critical service delivery with this year's Draft Operational Plan and Budget, now on public exhibition.
The 2026/2027 Draft Operational Plan and budget is unique in that it presents both the financial scenario with a Special Rates Variation (SRV) – which is still awaiting approval from the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART), and one without. A verdict from IPART on Council's SRV application is expected in May/June.
The Draft Operational Plan and Budget is working with a budget of $240 million for 2026/2027.
Highlights include:
- $66.1 million on improving local roads and drainage, including $2.89 million in SRV-funded projects
- $63.7 million on community and culture including local events, our Libraries, Gallery and Museum.
- $48.5 million on upgrading public spaces, parks, sports and recreation facilities.
- $31.6 million on waste management and compliance.
Key initiatives will include:
- The delivery of a significant $121 million Capital Works Program.
- Continued focus on finalising flood recovery works and actions across the Hawkesbury.
- Continued engagement, design and construction on the city shaping Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Projects.
- $60.6 million is forecast to be spent for 2026/2027.
- Continuing to provide and improve services for our community.
- The formalisation of a 10-year Sewer Infrastructure Charge (Special Rate) for the 8154 customers of the Windsor Sewer Scheme, with the option to pay quarterly from July 2026.
The 2026/2027 Draft Operational Plan and Budget is now on public exhibition online at www.yourhawkesbury-yoursay.com.au, and in hard copy at Council's Administration Building and Hawkesbury Central Library in Windsor until 12 May 2026.
Council is committed to building a Hawkesbury that is loved by its people. We encourage all residents to have their say on the Draft Operational Plan and Budget.
