Council budget adopted

Published on 27 June 2023

Moyne Shire Councillors have adopted the 2023/24 Budget following a period of community feedback.

The budget will deliver a capital works program of more than $24 million – including more than $14 million for improvements on the local road network.

Mayor Cr Karen Foster said there were 32 submissions received from the community during the feedback period on a range of issues.

“In response to those we have allocated a further $125,000 towards lighting at Koroit’s Victoria Park and $20,000 towards development of a masterplan at Mortlake’s Aberlea aged care home,” she said.

“We are also going to do further investigation on a footpath along Ocean Drive in Port Fairy and look to have that project included in future budgets.

“I thank everyone who made a submission, the adjustments we have made to the budget reflect the importance of these projects to the community and work towards delivering on our Council plan.”

The Budget also adopts a 3.5 per cent increase in the general property rate, in line with the State Government’s rate capping policy.

Cr Foster said the budget reflect cost of living challenges and the economic climate.

“In the last year inflation levels have continued to rise which has had a significant impact on Council’s expenditure,’’ Cr Foster said.

“Costs are rising for councils, just as they have in the supermarket and at the petrol pump. We were facing significant increases in costs, well above the rate cap, but thanks to the hard work of our staff and budget restraint exercised by Councillors, we’ve mitigated those impacts while still maintaining our ability to deliver effectively for our communities.’’

“We are committed to maintaining the service levels our community expects and maintaining our infrastructure, but we are determined to do that in a way that represents best value for money for our ratepayers.”