A responsible budget delivering a strong future for Townsville
Date published: 26 June 2024
Townsville City Council is prioritising core services, adopting its 2024/25 Budget and Operational Plan today.
The $868.1 million budget is the first to be delivered by Townsville’s newly elected Council under Acting Mayor Paul Jacob and was passed during today’s Special Council Meeting.
Acting Mayor Paul Jacob acknowledged Council had been hit hard when it came to rising costs of materials and services, having to pass on an average rate and utilities increase of 5.1 per cent across the board.
“The 2024/25 budget is about maintaining our core services and ensuring we continue to deliver for our community now and into the future,” Cr Jacob said.
“It’s no secret the cost of everything has increased in recent years, and Council has not been immune to the challenges we’re facing globally. The increase to operational costs is significant, whether it be due to labour, materials, services or utilities.”
The Acting Mayor said he and fellow Councillors didn’t make this decision lightly.
“We are all in agreeance this action is necessary to continue to provide reliable and quality services for our community,” he said.
“We understand the financial pressure everyone is under; ratepayers will see an average increase of 5.1 per cent or around $3.78 a week extra on their rates and utilities notice this year.
“Council had previously absorbed costs throughout challenging times for the community, delivering minimal to no rate increases over the past decade, with the goal of easing cost pressures on residents. This is no longer sustainable.
“We have maintained a rates discount for owner occupiers who pay their rates on or before the due date.
“In order to do this, we have had to halve the discount from ten, to five per cent, we’re encouraging our community to utilise handy rates tools on our website which allows you to view your rates balance anytime and set up reoccurring direct debit payment options.
“We also have one of the most generous pensioner rate concessions in Queensland with up to $800 per annum available to eligible pensioners.”
Councillor Jacob said the majority of the 2024/25 budget was about prioritising core services the community cares about most – reliable bin collections, safe roads and tidy streets, parks and open spaces to enjoy.
“We’re continuing to invest in our extensive road network, which is greater than the distance from Cairns to Brisbane, and maintain and renew 2,700km of water pipes and more than 1,400km of wastewater pipes across the city,” he said.
“Council has also prioritised cherished events like Anzac Day, Australia Day, Welcoming Babies Day, Seniors Week, Carols by Candlelight, New Year’s Eve, and Our Townsville including supporting the renowned North Australian Festival of Arts, as it continues its tradition of excellence with an exciting lineup of artists in 2024.”
Councillor Jacob said the budget would see Council record a necessary operating deficit, after funding depreciation, in order to maintain services and continue the city’s growth trajectory, and that the shortfall was forecast to reduce over the next few years due to efficiencies and sustainability measures.
The Acting Mayor said Council has identified a program of works which supports the city’s growth, jobs creation and modernisation of core services and that he and his fellow Councillors would continue to advocate for city-shaping projects and infrastructure.
“Council’s 2024/25 budget is a financially responsible and strong plan to manage the challenges our community is facing today and continue to build the foundations for a stronger tomorrow,” he said.
Visit the Budget 2024/25 page for more information.
