Annual council budget adopted

THE 2026–2027 Moorabool Shire Council budget was adopted on Wednesday 24 June.

With a rate rise of 2.75 per cent, the budget includes $33m of capital works, with $22m allocated to new projects.

“Council’s rate rise was in line with the Victorian government rate cap, at 2.75 per cent, which is a great result for our community,” Moorabool Shire Council’s chief executive officer Derek Madden said.

“We have $2m allocated to commence work on the exciting indoor pool project at MARC Stadium in Bacchus Marsh.”

This allocation is part of the total $15m funding commitment from the council for the $50m project. The state and federal governments have also committed money to the indoor pool.

Other projects Madden highlighted included a shire-wide annual reseal program ($1.8m) delivering preventative road maintenance in places like Morrisons, Mount Wallace and Elaine, and a rip, re-sheet, re-sealing and widening of Ballan-Meredith Road at Morrisons ($1.2m).

There has also been a $675,000 allocation for grandstand seating at Moorabool Aquatic and Recreation Centre (MARC) Stadium, $784,000 for playground renewals including those in Wallace and Darley, and $750,000 for delivery of CCTV, fencing, gates and signage across township facilities.

Mayor Cr Steve Venditti-Taylor said the capital works program was planned to keep local infrastructure safe and fit for the future, while making certain investment in townships, urban areas and rural communities.

“The program also includes targeted improvements in Mount Egerton, with upgrades to footpaths, car parking and additional tree planting,” Cr Venditti-Taylor said.

“These works will enhance safety, accessibility and local amenity, supporting everyday use by residents and visitors while contributing to the long-term liveability and character of the township.”