With the upcoming return of an elected Council this year, the City of Whittlesea’s Proposed Budget 2024-25 aims to ensure Council’s financial sustainability in the long term whilst continuing to deliver quality services, facilities, projects and programs.

The $315.21 million operating Budget will enable Council to continue to deliver 147 services to a growing population including kerbside waste collection, home support services for people in need, maternal and child health services as well as managing parks and open spaces, playgrounds and sports fields. The Proposed Budget also proposes a $107.5 million capital works program to deliver much-needed new facilities and upgrades to infrastructure.

Key projects include the next stages for the Regional Sports Precinct in Mernda, the Aboriginal Gathering Place, Granite Hills Major Community Park, Patterson Drive Community Centre in Donnybrook, West Wollert Community Centre, Peter Hopper Lake in Mill Park and commencing construction of the Doreen Splash Park and Playground.

Council will continue to subsidise waste charges in 2024-25, including the Victorian Government’s Landfill Levy, by 22.8% at a cost of $1.9 million.

The Proposed Budget also proposes an average rate increase of 2.75% in line with the rate cap set by the Victorian Government under the Fair Go Rating system.