The 2024-25 Budget reflects Council's ongoing commitment to strategic investment and the delivery of high-quality services. Funding allocation follows through on multi-year projects to support community health and wellbeing, with renewed community buildings and vital services.
Council's budget reflects the priorities and values of the Boroondara community, as outlined in the Community Plan 2021-2031. Funds are allocated to projects and initiatives based on what has been identified in the plan to ensure Council is delivering what is most important to our community.
Mayor of Boroondara, Cr Lisa Hollingsworth said, 'We know our community values the quality of life and opportunities which come with living in Boroondara. We are continuing to invest in the future of our parks and green spaces, neighbourhood character, bustling shopping areas and vital services used by everyone in our community.
'This budget takes the priorities of our community into consideration, while reflecting Council's commitment to sustainable budgeting and responsible financial management, now and into the future.'
In this year's Budget, Council has committed to support projects and services to continue making Boroondara a welcoming and inclusive city, such as:
- $29.47 million (over 4 years) to progress the Glenferrie Oval and Michael Tuck Stand redevelopment.
- $10.52 million (combined) to renew sportsground pavilions at Willsmere Park, Greythorn Park, Frog Hollow Reserve and Highfield Park to make sure the facilities are accessible for everyone.
- $21.81 million (over 3 years) for the Kew Library redevelopment, to provide a modern facility that meets the diverse needs of our community and growing population.
- $2.98 million to finalise the Tree Canopy Strategy and support the implementation of its action plan.
- $1 million to support the activities and initiatives included in the Climate Action Plan, including upgrading Council facilities with solar panels and moving to cleaner energy sources.
- $439,773 to upgrade the Columbia Street laneway and progress the Glenferrie Road streetscape concept designs, to provide more opportunities for people to meet, shop and learn.
Council will continue to maintain the city's infrastructure to the high standard the Boroondara community expects. To do this, Council has allocated:
- $6.6 million for drainage renewal
- $2.4 million on footpath and cycleway renewal
- $14.1 million on road renewal
- $14 million for 8 other community building renewal works and minor works across many of the other properties under Council stewardship.
Council's high level of service provision to residents will also continue. These services include an expenditure of:
- $10.7 million to provide library services seven days a week
- $9.9 million on health and wellbeing services, including vaccination, youth and recreation services
- $23.6 million for parks and gardens, biodiversity and street trees maintenance
- $3.9 million on arts and cultural services and events
- $13 million for planning, development and building controls
- $13.8 million for maintenance of the city's infrastructure.
In line with the Victorian Government's rate cap, a 2.75 per cent rate increase will apply to the total rates Council requires to operate and provide services to the community.
'This Budget ensures we maintain providing high-quality services and facilities our residents have come to expect, and that Boroondara continues to be a city that our community feels proud to live in,' Cr Hollingsworth said.
'Any ratepayer experiencing financial hardship should contact Council to access support.'
Council's Budget for the 2024-25 financial year is available for download on our Council budgets page. An accessible version will be available from 1 July 2024.
