Read the proposed budget
Read the proposed 2026-27 Budget.
Each year, Council develops an annual budget that outlines how we will fund the delivery of projects, programs and more than 100 services for the Bayside community.
The proposed Budget 2026–27 supports delivery of the Council Plan 2025–2029, translating the community’s long‑term priorities into funded actions for the year ahead. The accompanying Annual Action Plan explains what Council will deliver over the next 12 months, how these actions will be funded through the Budget, and how progress will be measured and reported.
This year’s $211 million budget focuses on maintaining essential services, renewing community assets and investing in infrastructure that supports residents and local businesses. This approach supports financial sustainability while responding to changing community needs.
The budget prioritises a $55.5 million capital works program, alongside key initiatives designed to deliver lasting benefits and make a positive impact across Bayside.
Provide your feedback on the proposed Budget 2026-27 and/or the Council Plan Year 2 Action Plan via the survey below. Consultation closes on 17 May 2026.
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Timeline item 1 - complete
Rate increase in line with the rate cap
Rates to be increased by 2.75% in line with the rate cap set by the Minister for Local Government, an increase of $57.17 for the average ratepayer.
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Timeline item 2 - complete
Activity Centre upgrades
Strengthening our Activity Centres, which provide hubs for employment, shopping and social connection, with a $16.3 million investment over the next four years, as well as an extra $0.3 million for cleaning and litter collection.
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Timeline item 3 - complete
Essential infrastructure and assets
$11.3 million investment in road, footpaths, and drainage infrastructure in 2026/27 as well as $17.2 million to improve parks, open space, and streetscapes.
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Timeline item 4 - complete
Expansion of Aged Care Services
Investment in expanding our Aged Care Services so we can meet the increasing needs of our ageing community.
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Timeline item 5 - complete
Yalukit Willam Nature Reserve
Continuing the transformation of Yalukit Willam Nature Reserve into a natural urban oasis with construction of the Gateway Building, funded by Federal Government.
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Timeline item 6 - complete
Finalising the Aquatics Strategy
Begin the development of a fully funded business case to confirm Council’s investment in Aquatics.
The $211.0 million budget will fund over 100 different services to the community
Over a quarter ($55.5 million) will be spent on capital projects improving community infrastructure.
Highlights of the proposed Council Plan Year 2 Action Plan
Improve community safety through better street and public lighting and delivery of the Community Safety Initiatives Plan.
Activate local shopping areas by supporting trader‑led events and placemaking initiatives across Activity Centres.
Celebrate arts and culture through events such as a Greek cultural festival and hosting the Melbourne Sculpture Biennale.
Deliver major placemaking projects, including the Beaumaris open space rotunda, Christmas activations and the Martin Street Underpass mural.
Strengthen planning and urban design, including responding to major infrastructure projects and developing a Hampton Urban Design Framework.
Protect and enhance open spaces, playgrounds and recreational facilities for all ages and abilities.
Deliver strong governance and customer service, including improved online services, clearer asset management and regular reporting to the community.
Address climate and environmental challenges through drainage upgrades, native vegetation works and sustainable land management.
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Read the Council Plan Action Plan
Read Year 2 Action Plan endorsed by Council
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Find out more
Read answers to frequently asked questions about the budget or action plan or ask your own question.
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Experiencing financial hardship?
Please contact our revenue team about rates payment options.
Have your say on the budget and Action Plan
Complete the survey or upload a written statement below. Consultation closes 5pm 17 May 2026.
Survey
Upload a statement
Timeline
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Timeline item 1 - complete
Proposed Budget 2026-27 endorsed by Council
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Timeline item 2 - active
Community consultation
23 April - 17 May 2026
Read about how we're conducting community engagement for this project.
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Timeline item 3 - incomplete
Consideration of community feedback
May - June 2026
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Timeline item 4 - incomplete
Adoption of Budget 2026-27
Council will consider community feedback and adopting these documents at its meeting on 16 June 2026
Agenda for this meeting will be published Wednesday 10 June on Council's website.
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