Tom Ingleton
Whittlesea ratepayers are facing an average rate rise of three per cent as the council juggles governing a rapidly growing municipality.
Last week, councillors endorsed the city’s draft 2025-26 budget for community consultation which includes a $116.6 million capital works program.
The draft budget proposes a sharp rise in waste charges, driven by a 28 per cent increase in the state landfill levy and new four-bin requirements.
The average household bill will increase to $409.95, with the full levy now passed on to ratepayers.
Cr Cox acknowledged the concerns of residents struggling with living costs, but pointed to the challenges of governing a rapidly growing municipality.
“There will be a lot of criticism about the rate increase … but the reality is, as a council in a developing area, we need a lot more money. You want more services– we’ve got to fund them, and we can only do that through rates and grants,“ he said.
Despite the financial pressures, the council is investing in wellbeing and social connection, including $18.2 million in community grants over the next decade.
Financial hardship support will continue, with flexible payments, deferrals and partnerships delivering food and material aid.
Speaking before he was suspended from council, Aidan McLindon condemned the state’s replacement of the fire levy with a new Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund, labelling it “dirty money” and warning it could double costs for ratepayers.
“Unfortunately, we are tasked with doing a lot of the dirty work– if we can minimize that, let’s make our voices heard,” he said.
“While you are giving us feedback, now is also the time to give the state government feedback.”
Highlights of the capital works program include construction of the Mernda Regional Sports Precinct, West Wollert Community Centre, Murnong community centre in Donnybrook, Hill Top Splash Park and playground in Doreen and Peter Hopper Lake in Mill Park.
Community feedback is open until May 4
