Annual Plan adopted: what it means for rates and local priorities

Annual Plan adopted: what it means for rates and local priorities

Waratah-Wynyard Council has adopted its 2026/27 Annual Plan and Budget Estimates, setting the direction for local services, infrastructure and community priorities over the year ahead.

The adopted Budget confirms a 4.90 per cent increase to the general rate, which is below the March Hobart CPI of 5.10 per cent.

Council has worked to balance affordability with the need to continue delivering essential services, maintaining community assets and progressing important local projects across the municipality.

Rates and charges at a glance

For 2026/27:

  • the general rate will increase by 4.90 per cent
  • the minimum general rate will be $450
  • the Waste Management Charge will increase from $190 to $215, equal to about 48 cents per week
  • kerbside waste collection charges will increase by between 4.72 and 5.26 per cent, depending on the service
  • stormwater service charges will increase by about 4.9 per cent
  • free entry to the Wynyard and Waratah Waste Transfer Stations will continue for residents

Support for ratepayers

Ratepayers experiencing difficulty paying their rates and charges are encouraged to contact Council early to discuss the support available under Council’s Financial Hardship Policy.

Rates may be paid in full or by instalments. More information about payment options and instalment dates is available on Council’s Rates and Payments page.

There is no discount for early payment this year.

What Council will focus on this year

The Annual Plan outlines Council’s priorities across core services, capital works, community programs and environmental initiatives.

Key actions for 2026/27 include:

Wynyard
Upgrades to the Inglis River Walking Track and design and approval work for a new childcare facility.

Somerset
Upgrades to Langley Park Clubrooms and Facilities, planning for Somerset Recreation Ground changerooms, and improvements at ANZAC Park All Abilities Playground.

Waratah
Planning for the relocation of the Waratah Transfer Station and upgrades to Waratah Caravan Park amenities.

Boat Harbour and Sisters Beach
Completion of the Boat Harbour Master Plan, stormwater design work for Boat Harbour and Sisters Beach, and progression of Sisters Beach erosion mitigation works.

Rural areas
Takone Road bridge replacement, Stage 1 of Gates Road sealing, rural reseals and gravel re-sheeting.


Council’s focus is on practical delivery, including core services, community communication and projects that improve local facilities, access, safety and liveability.

Council will continue to communicate with residents as projects progress and will work to minimise disruption wherever possible.

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