New budget consultation plan to give community more say

CITY of Greater Geelong residents will have the opportunity to share their opinions on the city’s spending much earlier in the budget cycle under a new plan.

The city will adopt a new process for the 2026-27 financial year to ensure the community can shape the budget from a more fundamental level.

Under the new model, a Budget Discussion Paper will be released for consultation in mid-February, allowing the community to leave comments and submissions until April.

Submissions will be reviewed as the budget is developed, before targeted engagement begins from mid-April with relevant community stakeholders.

The final budget will be presented for endorsement by the council before June 30.

The new process will mean there is around an extra two months for people to provide their feedback on the proposed budget.

Geelong mayor, Stretch Kontelj, said introducing the new plan was all about bringing the community into the process sooner.

“Council budgets are extremely complex, as the community is entitled to expect sustainable delivery for the 30 services which the council provides.

“Bringing the community into the conversation earlier will help us to have a budget that is shaped by the community, for the community.”

Other councils across Victoria have already successfully implemented the new model, and Geelong councillors will continue with usual listening posts for the community.

Chair of the council’s finance portfolio, Cr Andrew Katos, said the next steps would take place after the Christmas break.

“We will be communicating further at the start of 2026 about how to get involved.

“To ensure your voice is heard and the 2026/27 budget represents you, keep following yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au.”