Cook Shire Council’s proposed 2026-27 Budget will be presented for adoption later this month following an extensive planning process that began in October 2025 and included more than eight dedicated budget workshops, multiple planning meetings and extensive discussions between Councillors and Council officers.
Ahead of the Budget’s adoption, Mayor Robyn Holmes and Deputy Mayor Marilyn Morris have released a short video update providing insight into the work undertaken behind the scenes and the community feedback that helped shape this year’s proposed Budget.
Mayor Holmes said one of the strongest messages to emerge from Council’s Budget Consultation and Community Scorecard was the importance of balance.
“Our community told us they want Council to keep rates and fees as affordable as possible, particularly as households and businesses continue to face cost-of-living pressures,” Mayor Holmes said.
“At the same time, they also told us they value the services, infrastructure and investment that support everyday life across Cook Shire.”
The consultation findings highlighted community recognition of the challenges facing local governments, including increasing costs for fuel, materials, contractors, insurance and essential services.
Deputy Mayor Marilyn Morris said Councillors had carefully considered these pressures alongside community expectations throughout the budget development process.
“Finding the right balance between affordability and service delivery has been at the heart of every budget discussion,” Cr Morris said.
“Every service, every project and every proposed expenditure has been carefully considered to ensure we’re delivering the best possible outcomes for our communities.”
Council also noted community support for the principle of user pays, which aims to ensure the costs of providing Council facilities and services are shared fairly while minimising impacts on everyday residents, families and community groups.
Council adopted the 2026-27 Fees and Charges Schedule at its May Ordinary Meeting as part of the standard budget preparation process. While adopted in advance, the updated fees and charges will not take effect until 1 July 2026, allowing staff time to update systems, processes and customer information ahead of the new financial year.
The proposed 2026-27 Budget will be considered by Council later this month.
Watch the video below to learn more about the process behind this year’s proposed Budget.
