The City of Playford's Draft Annual Business Plan and Budget 2026/27 sets a steady course for the year ahead, continuing to deliver the infrastructure, services and programs that both growing and established communities rely on.
The draft plan focuses on maintaining financial sustainability, investing in new and existing assets, and continuing the delivery of everyday services that support the community.
Mayor Glenn Docherty said the budget reflects a measured and practical approach.
"This is a disciplined budget that delivers the services our community expects, underpinned by responsible financial management," said the Mayor.
Council's operating budget of $167.2M will support a wide range of services delivered every day, including waste collection, maintenance of parks and reserves, libraries, community programs, and road and footpath maintenance.
"These are the services people rely on day in, day out," said the Mayor.
"The proposed budget continues this work, making sure our community is supported while we also invest for the future."
The draft plan proposes continued investment in renewing and replacing existing assets. This includes ongoing upgrades to roads, footpaths and public spaces, particularly in established areas where ageing infrastructure requires continued investment.
At the same time, Council will continue to invest in new infrastructure to support growth, particularly in sport and social facilities.
A number of multi-year projects will reach key milestones over the next 12 months, including the commencement of construction at Dwight Reserve for new clubrooms and changerooms, completion of Stage 1 of the Riverlea District Sportsground, and completion of Stage 2 of Munno Para Sportsground.
New capital investment includes Stage 3 of Munno Para Sportsground, which will deliver an additional synthetic senior soccer pitch, sportsground lighting, training areas, a community play space, carparking, public toilets and improved footpath connections.
Further investment will deliver new footpaths in suburbs including Craigmore, Elizabeth, Hillbank and Munno Para West, temporary sportsground facilities for clubs needing immediate support, and safety improvements on Odgers and O'Loughlin Roads in Virginia.
"These are important projects that support both our growing suburbs and our established communities," said the Mayor.
"They create places for people to connect and be active, and they are part of our long-term investment in Playford."
The budget reflects increasing cost pressures facing Council, including rising waste management costs for kerbside and hard waste collections, asset depreciation, energy and fuel, and changes to contracted services with the Animal Welfare League for animal management.
"We're not immune to the same pressures households and businesses are feeling," said the Mayor.
"What's important is that we continue to manage these responsibly while still delivering for our community."
Council continues to focus on continuous improvement to manage these pressures and limit impacts on the community.
The draft plan delivers an operating surplus, reflecting Council's ongoing focus on sound financial management. Debt remains at a sustainable level, with borrowing continuing to support long-term infrastructure that benefits current and future generations.
To support the delivery of services and infrastructure, the draft budget includes a proposed 3.5% increase in rate revenue.
The Draft Annual Business Plan and Budget 2026/27 is now open for community engagement. Residents can explore the projects and services planned for their area and provide feedback on the following documents:
• Draft Annual Business Plan and Budget 2026/27
• Draft Long Term Financial Plan 2026/27
• Draft Strategic Asset Management Plan 2026/27
• Draft Rating Policy & Procedure
• Draft Rate Rebate Policy & Procedure
