Cardinia Shire Council has opened community consultation on its Draft Budget 2026–27 and updated Rating and Revenue Plan 2025–29, with residents invited to provide feedback before 19 May.
The draft budget outlines proposed spending on infrastructure, services and long-term financial planning as the municipality continues to grow. Council is seeking submissions from 21 April to 19 May through its online engagement platform.
The proposed budget includes an investment of $143.8 million in services and a $66.3 million capital works program. Funding is directed towards roads, footpaths and cycleways, community facilities, parks and playgrounds, arts and cultural programs, and maternal and child health services.
Council states the budget has been developed with a focus on maintaining service delivery while identifying efficiencies to support a sustainable financial position. It also outlines a return to an adjusted underlying surplus, supported by $20.8 million in borrowing to fund asset renewal projects.
The consultation also covers updates to the Rating and Revenue Plan 2025–29, which sets the framework for how rates and charges are applied across the municipality. The revised plan aims to ensure the rating system remains fair and transparent, while reflecting community expectations without increasing the overall amount of rates collected.
Both documents are guided by the Council Plan 2025–29, which sets the strategic direction for the municipality over four years, including priorities around infrastructure, community wellbeing and economic growth .
Cardinia Shire is one of Victoria’s fastest growing municipalities, with demand for infrastructure and services increasing as new households continue to move into the area. Council data shows an average of three new households are added each day, with population growth expected to continue over the next decade .
Residents can review the Draft Budget 2026–27 and the updated Rating and Revenue Plan online and submit feedback through the council’s engagement portal. Submissions will inform final decisions on spending priorities and the rating framework for the coming years.
The exhibition period for both documents closes on Tuesday, 19 May 2026.
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