Published on Tuesday, 28 July 2026 at 11:27:11 AM
On behalf of Council, I am pleased to present the Shire of Ravensthorpe’s proposed Budget for 2026–2027.
Council understands that household budgets remain under considerable pressure. The increasing costs of groceries, fuel, electricity, health care, insurance and other essentials are affecting families, pensioners, farmers and local businesses throughout our district. These pressures were also raised during the public consultation process and have been carefully considered by Council.
We know that every increase in rates affects local people. Council has therefore worked closely with the Shire administration to develop a disciplined and financially cautious budget that seeks to keep rates as low as reasonably possible while continuing to provide the services, facilities and infrastructure our communities rely upon.
The proposed general rate increase of 5% is consistent with the Shire’s Long-Term Financial Plan. It reflects the difficult balance between affordability for ratepayers and the Shire’s responsibility to maintain roads, community buildings, recreation facilities, waste services, parks, reserves and other essential assets across our large district.
Importantly, the Budget proposes no new borrowings. Existing debt will continue to reduce, while the Shire’s financial reserves are expected to grow. This will help protect the community against future financial pressures and allow Council to plan responsibly for the renewal of major assets.
The proposed capital works program totals approximately $4.9 million. It includes more than $2.1 million for roads, together with investment in pathways, drainage, parks, reserves and airport infrastructure. Planned road works include projects on Jerdacuttup Road, Southern Ocean Road, Koornong Road, Cowell Road, Aerodrome Road, Fence Road, John Forrest Road, Bedford Harbour Road and Fitzgerald Road.
The Budget also provides for improvements that directly support community safety and liveability. These include a new North Ravensthorpe Bush Fire Brigade shed, airport fencing and lighting works, improvements to waste facilities, coastal accessways, playground shade, sporting facilities, community buildings and the Ravensthorpe Cemetery gazebo.
Supporting local people and community organisations remains a strong priority. Funding has been allocated to the Community Development Fund, local events, community resource centres, library services, visitor services, arts and cultural activities, environmental programs, sporting clubs and community associations. Council has also proposed continuing rate concessions for eligible community organisations that provide important services and facilities within the district.
This Budget is not simply a collection of figures. It represents the services our residents use, the roads that connect our communities, the facilities that bring people together and the investment required to support the future of Ravensthorpe, Hopetoun, Munglinup, Jerdacuttup and our surrounding rural areas.
I thank my fellow Councillors, the Chief Executive Officer and Shire employees for the significant work involved in preparing the Budget. I also thank community members who provided feedback during the rates consultation process.
Council remains committed to listening to our community, supporting local people and managing the Shire’s finances responsibly. Through careful planning and continued advocacy for external funding, we will work to deliver the best possible outcomes while keeping the financial burden on our ratepayers as low as possible.
Cr Rachel Gibson
Shire President
View or download:
2026-2027 Statutory Budget (adopted 28 July 2026)
📃Capital Projects 2026-2027
📃Fees and Charges 2026-2027
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