Barcoo Shire Council has adopted its 2026-27 Budget, with a strong focus on supporting the community, continuing flood recovery, and investing in the future of the Shire. Mayor Sally O'Neil said Council had worked hard to balance the rising cost of delivering services with the cost-of-living pressures being experienced by local families, businesses, and primary producers.
To help ease financial pressure, Council has limited the general rate increase to 3 per cent, which is below the current rate of inflation, and has frozen all Council fees and charges for the coming financial year.
Council also remains debt-free, ensuring it is well placed to respond to future opportunities while continuing to invest in essential infrastructure and services without the burden of loan repayments.
A major priority in this year's Budget is the continued recovery from the March 2025 floods. Over the coming years, Council will deliver significant road, drainage and public infrastructure projects to restore flood-damaged assets and strengthen the region's resilience to future disasters.
The Budget also includes investment in replacing and refurbishing cattle grids across the Shire, helping improve safety, reliability and access for landholders and road users. Council's road construction business will continue to play an important role in supporting the organisation's long-term financial sustainability, with profits reinvested into local infrastructure and community services.
As part of the Budget, Council also adopted its new five-year Corporate Plan, developed with input from residents, businesses, and community groups. The plan sets the direction for the next five years, focusing on infrastructure, community wellbeing, economic development, good governance and disaster resilience.
Mayor Sally O'Neil said the Budget reflects Council's commitment to supporting the community, while planning for the future.