Flinders Shire Council announces 2024-2025 Budget
Flinders Shire Council is pleased to announce its Budget for the 2024-2025 financial year, reflecting a commitment to sustainable growth, enhanced community services, and robust fiscal management.
This marks a significant milestone as the Council embarks on a new era of progress and opportunity.
Mayor Kate Peddle said she was delighted to present the current council’s inaugural Budget after being sworn in earlier this year.
“Our focus has been on driving sustainable growth, while ensuring that we address the needs and aspirations of our residents with fiscal responsibility,” said Mayor Peddle.
“With strong internal structures and new key positions in Human Resources, Media, Grants and Community Engagement, Training and Development, and Compliance, we are setting the stage for improved operational efficiency and enhanced service delivery.
“We are also leveraging opportunities from the Queensland State Government's $5 billion investment in the CopperString 2032 Transmission Line to foster long-term economic stability and community development.
“We remain mindful of the cost-of-living pressures that continue to challenge families right across the Flinders Shire.
“That’s why we’ve delivered a cautious and considered financial plan with responsible rate rises, including 3.8 per cent for residential.”
Budget overview
The total revenue projected for the 2024-2025 financial year stands at $46.9 million. Of this, 12 per cent is derived from rates, levies, and charges, underscoring our reliance on government support through funding and grants.
“The Council is dedicated to investing in projects that enhance community welfare and expand our rate base over time,” said Mayor Peddle.
Expenditure breakdown
The Council’s operational expenditure of $41.9 million will be allocated as follows:
- 21% for administrative operations, including Councillor expenses and governance
- 20% for road infrastructure maintenance
- 12% for plant, stores, and workshop operations
- 9% for community services, including libraries and community care
- 9% for waste, water, sewerage, and rubbish collection
- 8% for compulsory employee benefits
- 6% for building and town maintenance
- 6% for facilities such as the caravan park and Flinders Discovery Centre
- 5% for community facilities maintenance
- 3% for rural services and pest management.
Capital Works and Major Projects
The Capital Works budget of $13.3 million includes significant projects such as:
- Road Infrastructure Projects: Stamford-Lerida Road, Hughenden Recreational Lake, and Morell Street construction.
- Council-Funded Projects: Expansion of the Showgrounds RV camping area, Medium Industrial Estate drainage works, and upgrades to the Hughenden Recreational Lake.
- Ongoing Road Projects: Advocacy for funding to complete the Kennedy Development Road and potential improvements to the Hughenden-Muttaburra Road.
Water and Waste Management
The Council acknowledges challenges with water network costs and quality issues. An additional $1 million investment aims to address these concerns.
The Budget includes critical upgrades to water infrastructure and a focus on resolving persistent quality issues.
Plant Purchases and Minor Works
A budget of $2.3 million is allocated for new equipment and machinery to enhance operational efficiency. Minor works funding supports community connection projects, cultural enrichment, and infrastructure development.
Community Engagement and Support
- Community Grants Program: Increased funding across various streams, including program support, facility improvements, and special requests.
- Pensioner Rate Discounts: A 50% discount on rates for pensioners to alleviate financial pressures.
- Community Bus and Club Facilities: Discounted fees for community groups and standardised rates for facility use.
Major Infrastructure Developments
- CopperString 2032 Workers Camp: Collaboration on infrastructure upgrades to support the construction of a 410-person accommodation camp.
- Legacy projects: Negotiations underway with Powerlink for legacy projects, including modern housing, airport expansion, tertiary education facilities, and improved community amenities.
Facilities and Services
- Hughenden Memorial Pool: Exploration of new funding opportunities and potential management changes.
Advisory Committees and Community Input
Four advisory committees have been established to enhance community engagement in decision-making. These include:
- Community Services and Wellbeing Advisory Committee
- Economic Development and Business Advisory Committee
- Rural Advisory Committee
- Hughenden and Small Towns Advisory Committee.
Mayor Kate Peddle emphasised Council’s commitment to the local community.
“We are dedicated to building a sustainable future for Flinders Shire, focusing on both immediate needs and long-term goals,” she said.
“We invite all community members to engage with our advisory committees and contribute to the growth and development of our Shire.”
To read the Flinders Shire Council 2024-2025 Budget Overview, please visit the Council website.
