Underpinning the 2024/25 plan is the delivery of existing services that cover the breadth of the city. Council will continue to provide its 25 core services, made up of over 200 different activities. City of Playford Mayor Glenn Docherty said this is in line with what the community expects from Council.
"The majority of the budget is allocated to those things we know impact our residents 'everyday lives, such as maintenance of streets, verges, ovals and playgrounds, waste collection and providing libraries and community centres," the Mayor said. "These services are the backbone of our city, and account for the majority of Council's budget, with $111M allocated to this work."
Another significant budget commitment is made to the renewal or replacement of existing assets across the city.
"Our proactive program means that assets like roads, footpaths, kerbing, culverts and stormwater infrastructure are replaced and renewed. We also ensure that things like sport, recreation and community facilities, park furniture, and playground equipment is replaced or maintained in good condition for residents," the Mayor said.
This year, $29M has been allocated toward existing asset renewal. In parallel to ongoing service and asset commitments, this year's plan is designed to navigate the opportunities and challenges of growth that continue to be part of Playford's story.
"On average, 10 people a day are forecast to move to Playford over the next 20 years, making our city one of the fastest growing areas in the state," the Mayor said. "Population growth, coupled with rapid urban expansion, presents a unique set of demands on both Council's resources and our city's infrastructure.
"An important part of our annual planning is ensuring we have the capacity and funding pathways to deliver existing services to more people, in more parts of our city, while continuing to maintain the high level of service our community expects."
Community engagement has been a key part of the decision-making process. "We thank those who took the time to share their thoughts on the budget," the Mayor said.
"Your input through this and other consultations throughout the year ensures that our planning reflects what is important to you."
Financial sustainability, in line with Council's Finance Strategy, has been a focus in the development of the plan, ensuring Council has the means to fund the services and projects it provides to the community, now and into the future.
"In endorsing this plan, we are shaping and responding to the immediate needs of our community while also ensuring that our decisions deliver positive outcomes not just for today, but for future generations," the Mayor said.
Existing Services
Council has 25 core services, made up of over 200 activities, including:
• Waste and recycling
• Verge mowing
• Street cleaning
• Graffiti removal
• Sportsground maintenance and irrigation
• Libraries at Elizabeth and Munno Para and a mobile service available across the city
• Community programs at centres like the Healthy Food Co, Marni Waiendi, Northern Sound System and the Elizabeth Rise Community Centre
Existing Assets
The Council manages and renews its substantial asset portfolio through a regular maintenance program. We will invest $29M million in updating or replacing existing assets, including kerbs, footpaths, roads, play spaces, and sporting facilities.
New Projects
New projects for 24/25 will improve our local road and footpath networks and public spaces, and support the environment.
• Footpath widening for Adams and Uley Roads, Craigmore; Yorktown Road, Elizabeth East; Goodman Road, Elizabeth South and Warooka Crescent, Smithfield
• New footpaths for Midway Road, Elizabeth Downs, and Homestead Drive at Hillbank
• Upgrading 30 pram ramps across the city
• Stormwater projects at Angle Vale, Munno Para, and Smithfield
• Construction of changerooms and car park at Dwight Reserve
• Installation of playground communication broads at newly constructed and refurbished plays paces
• Solar panel installations at five Council-owned and operated buildings to help reduce electricity costs
Rate impact
The budget recognises these factors as well as rising costs and inflationary pressures such as depreciation, insurance premiums, and energy bills. An increase to total rates collected will be 6.5%, which will add $2.28 per week to the average rates bill in Playford. This increase aligns with CPI and will help manage ongoing cost pressures beyond Council's control while meeting our community's needs.
The full Annual Business Plan and Budget 24/25 can be accessed here.
