Waratah-Wynyard Council is set to adopt its 2025–26 Annual Plan and Budget at the meeting on Monday 23 June. The draft proposes a 3.9 per cent increase in general rate revenue, slightly above the 3.13 per cent Council Cost Index, to maintain services and fund priority projects.
Mayor Dr Mary Duniam said the modest adjustment keeps pace with inflation while allowing Council to invest where it counts. “Our community expects reliable services and well-maintained facilities. This budget balances those expectations with careful financial management,” she said.
The plan forecasts an underlying operating surplus of $0.45 million, Council’s tenth in a row. It allocates more than $25.6 million to capital works, including the Surf Life Saving Club and community hub at Boat Harbour Beach, the Table Cape Visitor Experience, the Raglan–Simpson Street roundabout in Somerset, and improvements to Langley Park and the East Wynyard foreshore.
Kerbside waste collection charges will remain steady with no increase this year, a direct result of Council’s rollout of the Food Organics, Garden Organics (FOGO) service, which is diverting more material from landfill and keeping household costs down. The municipal Waste Management Charge will rise from $168 to $190—about 42 cents a week—to cover increasing landfill and transfer-station costs.
Chief Executive Officer Vanessa Adams said the budget shows the benefits of disciplined, long-term planning. “This budget reflects our commitment to delivering efficient services while planning responsibly for the future. The introduction of FOGO is a clear example of how we’re improving outcomes for the community and the environment without adding to household costs.”
Mayor Duniam added that the program represents a strategic investment in the region’s future. “This is a budget that invests in liveability, supports local jobs and keeps Council’s finances on a stable footing.”
If adopted, the Annual Plan and Budget will take effect on 1 July 2025. The agenda and draft documents will be available on Council’s website ahead of the meeting.
Authorised for general media distribution by Vanessa Adams,
Chief Executive Officer, Waratah-Wynyard Council on June 18th, 2025.