SDRC’s draft budget to focus on building vibrant communities

Budget talks will soon begin with Southern Downs leaders, but the mayor has already revealed one key rates decision that will be welcome news for residents.

Southern Downs councillors will hold a special meeting to consider the upcoming draft budget ahead of community consultation.

The meeting will take place on June 12, with incumbent mayor Melissa Hamilton reiterating council’s commitment to building vibrant, liveable communities while remaining realistic about the cost of living pressures.

Ms Hamilton said community involvement in the budgeting process is vital.

“Recognising the continued cost of living pressure on households, we have focused the 2024-25 Draft Budget on delivering essential services,” Ms Hamilton said.

“It is proposed that there will be no increase to the residential General Minimum Rate, as we try to rebalance our rating system to ensure a fairer and more equitable system for our residential ratepayers.

“In the longer term, a downward pressure on rates can only be achieved through encouraging sustainable growth and attracting new business and development in the region, and that is something that will be a key focus for the new Council.”

Community consultation will open at 8am on June 13, and will close at 5pm on June 28.

Following public consultation, the final draft budget will be presented to councillors for their adoption on July 24.

The 2024/24 draft budget will be available to view online from June 12.