The community can have its say on Hobsons Bay's 2026-27 budget priorities, in a new process for this year's budget.
The 2026-27 draft budget takes a back-to-basics approach, with a focus on financial sustainability, lifting service standards and ensuring affordability for rate payers.
The budget looks at maintaining existing assets rather than investing in new projects, paying down debt and investing in skills needed across Council.
"The draft also has a focus on keeping residential rates affordable, with an average general rate increase of 1.82 per cent across residential properties, well below CPI.
Overall the proposed rate increase across all rate categories is 2.75 per cent, in line with the state government rate cap for 2026-27.
Nearly $20 million is proposed to go towards renewing local roads, drains and parks, with more than $4 million in renewing community facilities and $4.8 million for essential service assets like library collections, vehicles and computers.
The budget has been shaped by community feedback from consultation on areas including local business, tourism, sport and recreation, events and venues and community, as well as the 2025-29 Council Plan.
The high-level draft budget summary is now available for the community to review and give feedback on.
Feedback on the draft can be provided at participate.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au
Quotes attributable to Mayor of Hobsons Bay, Cr Diana Grima:
"This draft highlights Council's commitment to getting the basics right for our community. From previous feedback, it is clear where our residents want to see us invest to continue to develop our city.
"I invite our community to read and engage with the draft budget summary document, so we can continue building a strong and sustainable future together."
