Blacktown Council’s $767m draft budget shows need for more infrastructure and community services

The expansion of sports arenas is a highlight of a western Sydney’s council budget, but the need for more funding towards community services for the rapidly growing region has been underlined.

A local council has handed down its $767m draft budget, with money allocated to address infrastructure issues and funding for services for residents.

At an extraordinary council meeting on Wednesday night, Blacktown Council discussed its draft 2025-26 budget.

The plan outlines the council’s plan to deliver infrastructure and essential services to a continuously growing area.

Highlights include expanding the Kevin Betts Stadium at Mt Druitt, giving Blacktown International Sports Park a $15m Disability Sports Centre, along with $126m allocated for capital works such as building upgrades, footpaths, roads and drainage and stormwater infrastructure.

Core services such as waste and recycling services, maintenance for parks, sporting grounds and reserves, government functions and council libraries have also been allocated funding in the budget.

Deputy Mayor Bob Fitzgerald and Mayor Brad Bunting. Picture: Blacktown Council

Deputy Mayor Bob Fitzgerald told the council on Wednesday night the budget “shapes the future”.

“Blacktown City is proud to be the heart of western Sydney. We are the beating heart of the growing economy,” he said.

“This council is delivering not just infrastructure and services, but a stronger, smarter, fairer future for all our people.”

The council handed down their draft budget. Picture: Blacktown Council

Mayor Brad Bunting pointed out the budget was more “than numbers” and aimed to address the rapidly growing community and cost-of-living costs.

“From essential services, childcare centres and libraries to roads and parks, we are investing in every corner of our city, for every family, every business, and every future,” he said.

However, Mr Bunting also brought up the council’s ongoing avocation for a “fairer funding system” as it navigated rate caps, restrictions imposed on developer contributions, state-imposed constraints which restrict local councils on delivering “its communities now and into the future”.

“Through disciplined financial leadership, bold investment, and a deep commitment to our community, this council is delivering not just infrastructure and services, but working to improve everyday life for the people and businesses who call Blacktown City home, from families and children to workers, students and seniors,” he said.

Residents are encouraged to provide feedback on the budget from May 13 until June 10 at council-run libraries or online.