2026/27 Budget and Long-Term Financial Plan Survey

For those who just think of Council as just rates, roads and rubbish, you might be surprised to learn that we operate and provide over 70 unique services to our community which, with rate-capping and limited external funding opportunities, is not an easy feat to achieve.

Preparing the Budget is an important step in shaping Council’s annual plan in relation to programs, the delivery of projects, and services to meet community’s needs.

Your thoughts, ideas, and feedback ultimately helps us to develop the annual budget and determine how services are financially supported for the year.

We invite you to take this quick survey and tell us what services you use most and which are most important to you and your family. It could be the outdoor swimming pools, Library, health and wellbeing program, waste services, road maintenance, public arts and culture, sporting facilities, public amenities – we want to hear your thoughts on how we should prioritise service delivery!

Council provides over 70 services to the Community. Tell us in which areas you think Council should prioritise it's spending? (select your top 10)

Children services – Maternal and Child Health, Family Day Care

Community Services – Senior Support, Senior Citizen Centres, Community Health and Wellbeing

Transfer Stations – Hamilton and outer townships

Playgrounds and sporting grounds – Melville Oval, Pedrina Park, skate parks, ovals, netball and tennis courts and recreation reserves

Showgrounds and public halls

HILAC and swimming pools

Cultural facilities – Art Gallery, Cinema and Performing Arts Centre

Library – books, ebooks, programs and computer services

Local Laws – lost animals, pet adoptions, parking and permits

Building and Planning permits and services

Airport

Livestock Exchange

Tourism and Events – Visitor services, events support

Economic Development – business support, assistance or advice

Environmental health – septic tank permits, registration and monitoring of food premises

Caravan parks

Public toilets

Community engagement services and Community Partnership Grants Funding Program

Customer Services – attending in person to pay accounts, calling for information

Procurement Services – tendering for Council business and supplying goods or services to Council

Footpaths and bike paths

Waste Management

Local Roads, Footpaths and cycleways

How would you rate the value for dollar you receive for Council’s programs and services?

Very good

Good

Fair

Poor

Very poor

Unsure

What ideas or suggestions do you have to improve transparency and community involvement in the council’s financial decision-making?

Maximum 20,000 characters

0/20,000

Do you have any other comments you would like to provide about Council's Budget or Long-Term Financial Plan?

Maximum 20,000 characters

0/20,000

So we know who we're reaching, can you tell us your age group?

Select option