West Wimmera Shire Council adopts 2025/26 budget
Published on 27 June 2025
West Wimmera Shire Council has formally adopted its 2025/26 budget, setting a clear direction focused on financial responsibility, essential service delivery, and ongoing community development.
The budget reflects careful planning, balancing an estimated income of $26.45 million against expenses of $29.29 million.
Council has allocated more than $5 million to capital works, targeting key areas such as roads and infrastructure renewal, improvements to community facilities, and investment in essential assets that support residents’ wellbeing.
Rates and charges revenue is budgeted at $9.176 million, in line with the State Government’s 3% rate cap under the Fair Go Rates System.
Mayor Tim Meyer acknowledged the hard work involved in finalising the budget.
“This has been an enormous task and Council appreciates all the effort that has gone into preparing this budget,” he said.
Cr Meyer highlighted the broader challenges facing rural and regional councils, including tightening financial resources.
“Like many councils across the country, we are facing reduced funding and must focus on getting back to basics,” he said.
“Despite these challenges, Council remains committed to finding new opportunities, fighting for funding for projects, and always looking at ways to improve our communities.
“This budget is about maintaining essential services while responding to financial challenges with a practical and community-driven approach.”
Council’s priorities for the year ahead include maintaining essential services, renewing critical infrastructure, and supporting projects that enhance community wellbeing.
The budget positions the organisation to be financially sustainable while continuing to seek state and federal funding to maximise benefits for residents.
At an unscheduled meeting on Friday, Council also adopted the 2025/26 Annual Plan and the 2025-29 Revenue and Rating Plan.
All documents are available on Council’s website here. For more information, visit westwimmera.vic.gov.au or contact Council on 13 99 72.
Please note: A previous media release about the draft budget incorrectly stated a rate increase of 2.75%. The correct figure, in line with the State Government's rate cap, is 3%.