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UNDERSTANDING THE BUDGET

Overview of the Cook shire Council Budget

The Cook Shire Council budget is a comprehensive financial plan that outlines our projected revenue and expenditure for the upcoming financial year. It directs how council funds will be allocated to support services and infrastructure that benefit our community. From road maintenance and waste management to cultural events and community services, the budget ensures that we continue to meet the needs of our residents effectively and efficiently.

Council’s budget is more than numbers; it’s a reflection of our community’s priorities and a roadmap for our future. Through careful planning, inclusive consultation, and strategic allocation of resources, we ensure that Cook Shire remains a vibrant and sustainable community for all residents.

HOW THE 

Budget is calulated

The budget is calculated based on a detailed analysis of Council’s planned service needs and projects, alongside previous years’ expenditures and revenues, alongside anticipated future costs and income. This process involves:

  • Reviewing ongoing costs
  • Assessing level and necessity of services
  • Projecting income from rates, grants, fees, and other sources.
  • Engaging with community to understand their priorities.
  • Aligning budget with strategic goals to plan for sustainable growth and development.
Scope of the Local Council Budget

The Cook Shire Council budget covers:

  • Operational Expenses: Day-to-day expenses necessary for running council services such as administration utilities, and office supplies.
  • Capital Works: Investments in long-term assets like new infrastructure projects, upgrades to facilities, and large-scale maintenance works.
  • Community Programs: Funding for libraries, community centres, sports facilities, and other recreational activities.
  • Environmental Management: Initiatives to protect and manage our natural resources and biodiversity.
WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Take a journey through Cook Shire Council’s financial planning since 2016-17. Our annual budgets reveal the story of how we’ve managed resources to shape the Shire’s growth and prosperity. Explore the decisions that have supported our community’s development and discover the foundation for our future.

How your Rates Contribute

Rates are a primary source of revenue for Council. They are calculated based on property values, with property owners contributing to the cost of local services and critical infrastructure. Rates ensure that we have a consistent and reliable funding source to deliver essential services throughout the shire.

 

Property Valuations and Rates

Property valuations play a crucial role in determining how much each property owner pays in rates. These valuations reflect the unimproved value of land and are conducted by the State Valuation Service. Council does it’s best to ensure that dramatic changes in property valuations don’t adversely affect the rates charged, ensuring fairness in the distribution of the tax burden across all property owners.

Deciding on Rating Categories

Cook Shire Council decides on rating categories based on land use, location, and other relevant characteristics. This allows us to fairly distribute the rates based on the benefits and services provided to different properties. Categories can include residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural properties, each tailored to the specific needs and impacts of those sectors.

For more information on rates, fees and charges

Grant Funding

The majority of Council’s funds is from State and Federal government grants. These grants contribute to renewals and upgrades of roads and other infrastructure assets, community programs such as libraries and sport & recreation.

For more information on Grants

Transparency and Community Involvement

Transparency in the budget process is crucial. Cook Shire Council is committed to providing clear and accessible information through public consultations, detailed budget documents, and regular reporting to monthly Council meetings. Community input is highly valued, and residents are encouraged to participate in budget surveys and public meetings to help shape our fiscal policies.