Moira Shire Council chair administrator, Dr Graeme Emonson PSM says said the 2026/27 budget reflects the community’s priorities while maintaining responsible financial management.
Moira Shire Council has formally adopted its 2026/27 Annual Budget, delivering a $33.56 million capital program that invests in infrastructure, community facilities and essential services across the Shire.
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Major projects in the Yarrawonga area include $500,000 in capital works at JC Lowe Oval and $200,000 for stage 1 of the Belmore St beautification program where the intent is to “soften and green roundabouts”, starting with the Belmore Steet/Orr Street intersection.
There will be landscaping upgrades to the roundabout and surrounding street corners; and improved green space and plantings.
At JC Lowe Oval, pedestrian safety will be enhanced for people accessing the reserve along Neil Place from Burley Rd.
Work will include footpath treatments, street lighting, bollards and additional fencing with work planned for the coming year.
Roads, drainage and bridges remain a priority, with significant investment in road resheeting, resealing, pavement renewal and road restoration programs across the Shire’s 3,813-kilometre road network.
The budget also funds a broad range of community programs and services including maternal and child health, youth events, the Community Leadership Program, and services supporting people with disability and the elderly.
Council will also implement its Environmental Sustainability Strategy, develop a net zero emissions strategy, and progress the Urban Canopy Strategy.
Chair administrator Dr Graeme Emonson said the budget reflected the community’s priorities while maintaining responsible financial management.
“This budget strikes the balance the community expects – delivering the everyday services people rely on, investing in long-awaited projects that will make a lasting difference, and working toward long-term financial sustainability, all within a 2.75 per cent rate cap,” Dr Emonson said.
“We are mindful of the very real cost-of-living pressures facing our community, and our commitment to disciplined financial management remains firm.
“We are focused on meeting today’s needs without compromising our ability to invest in tomorrow.”
The budget was adopted at the June Council Meeting, following a community consultation period where three submissions were received from the community.
Public drop-in sessions were held in Yarrawonga, Cobram, Nathalia and Numurkah and a formal submission hearing on June 2.
Council thanks all community members who participated in the consultation process.
Looking ahead, Council will begin implementing its new Economic Development Strategy 2026-2030, develop a Tourism Destination Management Plan and advance a precinct plan for Thompsons Beach in Cobram.
Chief executive officer Matthew Morgan said the budget had been carefully constructed to deliver genuine community value while addressing the financial challenges facing the Council.
“Every dollar in this budget has been carefully considered to ensure we are delivering real value to our community – from major infrastructure like the Yarrawonga Multisport Stadium and flood protection works, through to community programs, road renewals and environmental initiatives,” Mr Morgan said.
“We are also being transparent with our community about Council’s financial position.
“Our long-term adjusted underlying result remains in deficit, and we will be developing a Financial Sustainability Strategy by November 30, 2026.
“This Strategy will set out a clear pathway to achieving a financially sustainable position by 2028/29, and the community will have a genuine role in shaping its direction.”
The adopted 2026/27 Annual Budget is available to view on the Moira Shire Council website at: https://www.moira.vic.gov.au/
