Lismore City Council has handed down the draft 2026/27 Budget focused firmly on delivery, with an extensive program of infrastructure and flood recovery works set to move into construction across the region following years of planning and sustained advocacy.
Mayor Steve Krieg said the $411.3 million budget marks a significant step forward for the community and supports Lismore's growth as a thriving regional centre.
"This is a year of delivery for Lismore. After the hard work to secure funding and preparing projects, we are now seeing that translate into real outcomes on the ground," he said.
"The budget prioritises capital investment in roads, infrastructure, recovery and preparedness to the value of $218.4 million, all areas the community has consistently asked us to focus on."
"Our community has been clear about what matters most, and this budget is focused on delivering exactly that."
The 2026/27 program is underpinned by record State and Federal funding secured through sustained advocacy.
"We've worked hard to ensure Lismore receives its fair share. That means we can deliver this critical program of work without placing unnecessary additional burden on ratepayers."
Key projects scheduled for delivery include pavement projects comprising Tregeagle Rd, Rous Rd, Dunoon Rd and James Gibson Rd, with significant progress on the South Lismore Sewer Treatment Plant Resilience Upgrade and much more.
Council has taken a measured financial approach, holding general rates in line with the State rate peg at 3.1% while making targeted adjustments to ensure services remain sustainable. The freeze on inner CBD business rates will continue.
At the same time, a range of measures have been implemented to support the community, including free waste vouchers, a focus on dedicated free programs in our libraries and gallery, subsidised access to key facilities like our pools and leisure facilities, and support for community organisations.
"We know there is significant pressures on households, and we've been deliberate in protecting access to services and supporting our community where we can."
The scale of works is expected to support local jobs and businesses, with activity across the LGA.
"This is about keeping work in the region, supporting local contractors and building confidence in Lismore's future. This is underpinned by our draft long-term Strategic Planning Framework, which plans for a population of 60,000, 6,500 new jobs, and 10,000 homes on flood-free land."
"We are also focused on strengthening Lismore's reputation as a vibrant regional hub by attracting major events while continuing to grow beloved local festivals such as Eat the Street, creating a dynamic calendar that celebrates music, food, and community."
"Through focused revenue optimisation and careful cost management in 2025/26, we have built a strong foundation for a practical, fiscally responsible 2026/27 Budget that sets us up for a sustainable future."
The Draft Budget by Program 2026-2027, Draft Operational Plan 2026-2027, Draft Revenue Policy 2026-2027, Draft Fees and Charges 2026-2027 and Draft Long Term Financial Plan 2026-2027 go on public exhibition 13 May until 10 June 2026 and can be viewed on Your Say Lismore.
