Mayor's Column – Building for the Future

Last week Council adopted the 2026/27 Whitsunday Regional Council Budget.

‍

I know most people don't spend their time reading budget papers or financial statements. What they want to know is simple – what's happening to my rates, what am I getting for it, and is Council spending my money wisely?

‍

They're fair questions, and they were front of mind for Councillors throughout this year's budget process.

‍

Over the past two years, we've spent a lot of time taking a hard look at the Council's finances. We had identified some challenges that had been building in previous terms of government, including a large deficit in the Council's General Fund. Rather than kicking the can down the road, this Council made a conscious decision to tackle those issues head on.

‍

It was time to tighten the belt. Before considering any rate increase, Councillors directed management to look inward first. We challenged spending, reviewed services, identified efficiencies and looked for ways to do things better. Costs are rising steeply with high inflation and Like every household and business across the Whitsundays, Council has had to take a close look at where money is being spent and make savings where we can.

‍

It hasn't been easy but in a relatively short period of time, Council has reduced its General Fund deficit from around $12 million to approximately $3 million. There is still more work to do, but it is a significant step towards building a financially stronger and more sustainable organisation.

‍

At the same time, we can't lose sight of the fact that the Whitsundays is one of Queensland's fastest-growing regional communities. More people are choosing to live here, more businesses are investing here and that means continued demand for roads, water, sewerage, parks, community facilities and essential services.

‍

This year's budget invests more than $100 million in infrastructure and services across our region, including roads, footpaths, water and sewerage infrastructure, waste services, parks, pools, libraries and community programs.

‍

Importantly, we've adopted an average general rate increase of four per cent across all categories, ensuring a fair and balanced approach across residential, business, rural, tourism, mining and island communities.

‍

If I was to describe this Council's journey so far, I would say our first year was about understanding, our second year was about reform, and this year is about delivery.

Our community expects results, and that's exactly what we're focused on delivering as we continue building a stronger future for the Whitsundays.

‍