Thank you to everyone who participated in our consultation on the proposed Budget 2025-26.

Between 1 – 21 May, we heard from 137 community members about Council’s proposed Budget 2025-26.

Council will consider your feedback at its meeting on 17 June. You can find out how to participate in this meeting and more information about the community engagement findings below.

  • Climate action and environment (30%)

    41 participants expressed disappointment about a reduction in funding for climate action and environmental initiatives. They stressed the importance of maintaining and increasing tree planting programs through the Urban Forest Strategy and other measures to address climate change. Concerns were raised about the long-term effects of reduced tree cover, like urban heat islands.

  • Warm water pool (35 participants, 25.5%)

    The proposed deferral of the warm water pool project received mixed feedback. While some supported the deferral due to high costs and maintenance, and the need to upgrade the Sandringham Family Leisure Centre pool, many opposed it. They highlighted the pool's importance for health and wellbeing, especially for older residents and those with disabilities. There was strong disappointment in delaying a project that had high community support from previous consultations.

  • Rate freeze (23 participants, 17%)

    Opinions on the rate freeze were mixed. Some appreciated financial relief, while others worried about long-term financial stability and future service provision.

  • Community infrastructure and services (16%)

    22 respondents highlighted the need for improved infrastructure and community services, including better maintenance of parks, playgrounds, and public facilities. Specific mentions included the need for upgrades to Pennydale Park and the Brighton Men's Shed, as well as BMX facilities.

  • Early years services and kindergarten (14%)

    19 participants raised concerns about lack of funding for early years services, particularly in Hampton. They noted that these services are struggling due to high application numbers and ageing buildings, and require maintenance and expansion to support Victorian Government reforms and the growing population of children, especially with new housing developments.

  • Other themes referenced in feedback included:

    Investment in Ivison Ward (7), activity centres (7), Dendy Beach Visitor Management Plan and North Road Beach (6), general feedback (6), active transport and safety (4), drainage and street cleaning (3), and accessibility and Changing Places (1).

Next steps

Council will consider community feedback, including this community engagement report, before adopting a Budget 2025-26 at its meeting on 17 June 2025.

There have not been any recommended changes to the proposed Budget or Financial Plan.

Interested community members can request to be heard at this meeting via the links below. In accordance with Council’s Governance Rules, a maximum of 10 speakers (5 for and 5 against) are able register to speak to an item. Once this limit has been reached, you will be able to submit a written statement.

The Local Government Act 2020 requires each Council to adopt an annual budget by 30 June each year.

Council meeting 17 June, 6.30pm