West Wimmera Shire Council’s 2025-26 draft budget and annual plan were endorsed by Council at its meeting on 16 May, 2025 and are now on public exhibition for community feedback.
Council will consider community feedback prior to adoption of the budget at a future Council meeting on 30 June, 2025.
Key features of 2025-26 draft budget and annual plan
The West Wimmera Council 2025-26 draft budget is a responsible financial plan, focused on delivering the best outcomes for the West Wimmera Shire community.
The 2025–26 capital works program allocates approximately $4.26 million, with 93 per cent directed towards the renewal of critical infrastructure and 7 per cent towards upgrades and development of existing assets. The program reflects a measured and sustainable investment aligned with available funding and current priorities
This draft budget demonstrates Council’s continued commitment to financial responsibility and efficiency, while recognising the importance of long-term sustainability and service delivery for our community.
Key projects and priorities for 2025-26 include:
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Improvements to roads and preservation of Council asset infrastructure
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Enhancements to community spaces
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Continued support for recreational and community facilities where practical
Council remains focused on maximising the efficiency of internal resources. Where possible, projects will be delivered using Council’s own staff, plant and equipment. This approach supports local employment, builds internal capability, and delivers better value for ratepayers.
An allowance has been made to pursue further state and federal funding opportunities during the year, acknowledging the vital role of external grants in supporting Council’s capital works program.
As part of the 2025-26 budget, Council will also begin transitioning out of aged and disability services. Provisions have been made to support this process, enabling Council to refocus on core local government responsibilities and strengthen long-term financial viability.
Rates and charges revenue for 2025-26 is budgeted at $9.176 million, reflecting a 3% increase, in line with the rate cap under the Fair Go Rates System.
How you can be involved
Read Council’s 2025-26 draft budget and annual plan
Read all documents below or or pick up a copy at Council’s Customer Service Centres, 25 Baker Street, Kaniva, or 49 Elizabeth Street, Edenhope.
Read the 2025-26 draft budget here(PDF, 6MB)
Read the 2025-26 annual plan here(PDF, 9MB)
Provide feedback
Community members are invited to provide feedback in relation to the draft budget 2025-26 and the annual plan 2025-26. Council will consider community feedback prior to adoption of these documents.
If you have a proposal or bid you would like Council to consider as part of its future budgets, please submit this via Council’s Innovation Platform here or by completing a form at either of our Customer Service Centres.
All feedback must be received by Council by no later than 5pm on Sunday 15 June, 2025. To provide feedback, fill out the form below.
Public feedback form
Next steps
Council will consider all feedback it receives from the community on the 2025-26 draft budget and annual plan. Council will look to formally adopt both documents at an unscheduled meeting on 30 June, 2025.