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Published on 01 July 2026
Mornington Peninsula Shire Council has adopted a financially responsible 2026/27 Budget shaped by strong community feedback and focussed on local priorities. Mayor Cr Stephen Batty said the Budget delivers what matters most to our community, while maintaining long-term financial sustainability in a challenging economy. “Over four weeks, hundreds of community members shared their views on the draft Budget – and we’ve listened,” Cr Batty said. We asked how Council could help ease cost-of-living pressures, with many nominating a reduction in waste charges. In response, Council has opted not to change bin lids next year and to borrow to pay for the rollout of new FOGO bins. This has seen the annual waste charge for properties with bin collections cut from $570 in the draft Budget to $507 in the final Budget. When asked whether they wanted a rates freeze or rates rebate, 79% of respondents choose to keep the 2.75% rate cap increase to maintain current service levels. Cr Batty said the average rates charge across the Shire will be $1,773 for 2026/27, one of the lowest in Victoria. “This Budget was developed amid global economic uncertainty and with inflation above the State Government’s rate cap. Despite these pressures, this year’s rates increase averages less than $1 per week,” Cr Batty said. Roads remain the top community priority, with 65% of respondents supporting increased investment. In response, spending on roads and drainage will rise by 24%. “This is a clear message from our community. We know roads matter, and we’re investing accordingly,” Cr Batty said. Other Budget highlights include $4 million in community grants and subsidies, and a strong focus on improving township streetscapes across the Shire. Council will deliver a $46.8 million Capital Works Program in 2026/27, with key projects including:
“Thank you to everyone who contributed — your feedback has shaped this Budget,” Cr Batty said. “We’ve taken a balanced, responsible approach to deliver essential services and infrastructure without overextending our finances.” “I’m proud we’ve delivered a sustainable, community-focused Budget despite ongoing economic pressures.” For more information on the 2026/27 Budget, visit mornpen.vic.gov.au/budget