Council adopts budget for 2025/26

CITY of Greater Bendigo this week adopted the Budget 2025/26 with investment in infrastructure and transformative projects including the redevelopment of Bendigo Art Gallery.

One hundred and eighty people contributed to a community survey via the City’s Let’s Talk Greater Bendigo platform last year, identifying roads, waste, parks and trails as top priorities.

Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said funding long term projects supported growth.

“We have some very exciting projects ahead that are vital for the region’s future economic success,” Cr Metcalf said.

“The $45 million redevelopment of the Bendigo Art Gallery will reshape the region’s future.

“As the largest infrastructure project ever undertaken by council, it will elevate the gallery’s status as a cultural and economic asset for both our region and the state of Victoria.

“Funding partners are critical to major project delivery across Bendigo, including the State Government fully funding the redevelopment of the Bendigo Bowls and Croquet Clubs, and investing in the Bendigo Low Line Walking and Cycling Trail between Golden Square and White Hills.

“All three levels of government have invested in the North Bendigo Recreation Reserve stage 1 pavilion works, and the Federal Government and the City are also upgrading the Golden Square Recreation Reserve Pavilion and jointly investing in the new Heathcote Civic Precinct.

“The Budget will invest in important infrastructure used daily in the community.

“There are around 230 road renewals, 12 new footpaths, 14 footpath renewals, new roundabouts, tram track upgrades, bridge renewals, Waratah Road and Midland Highway intersection signalisation, playspace renewals and much more.

“The Budget 2025/2026 has been developed to be fiscally responsible while managing community expectations.

“There are limited funds available, and this Budget seeks to address these concerns by continuing to fund existing services wisely and prioritise works and services in a responsible manner.”

Waste charges for ratepayers will not increase in the new financial year and council has not applied for a variation to the State Government three per cent rate cap, seeking to absorb increasing costs for supplies, goods and services.

The Budget 2025/2026 is valued at $259 million, with an operating budget of $189 million.

For more information visit bendigo.vic.gov.au/about-us/plans-strategies-and-documents/budget.