The City of Ballarat is changing the way it engages with the community in relation to the preparation of the annual budget, shifting to a single engagement period prior to the preparation of the budget.
This comprehensive, earlier engagement process will ensure Council is better informed of residents' priorities within the context of the Council Plan 2021-2025 prior to the development of the budget.
Residents can participate in the budget engagement process by filling out the online MySay survey, or by participating in one of the drop-in sessions outlined below.
City of Ballarat Finance staff will be available for community members to speak directly with them at the City of Ballarat's Customer Service Centre, The Phoenix, 25 Armstrong Street South Ballarat Central during the following times:
- Tuesday 10 October - 9am - 12pm
- Thursday 12 October - 2pm - 5pm
- Tuesday 17 October - 2pm - 5pm
- Friday 20 October - 9am - 12pm
- Monday 23 October - 2pm - 5pm
- Wednesday 25 October - 9am - 12pm
Two online sessions will also be conducted for those residents who are unable to attend during business hours.
- Monday 16 October - 7pm - 8pm
- Tuesday 24 October - 7pm - 8pm
Registrations for these sessions can be made via the MySay page.
Community feedback obtained during this period will help inform the priorities outlined in the budget.
The new engagement process will also allow the 2024/25 Annual Budget to be considered by Council for adoption in May 2024 - a month earlier than in previous years.
City of Ballarat Mayor Cr Des Hudson encouraged community members to get involved in this month of consultation to share what they felt was important.
"Whether you're a ratepayer or a regular user of council services, the City of Ballarat budget affects everyone," he said.
"From childcare services to libraries, roads and footpaths to waste collection, it's important that the budget reflects the priorities of residents."
The MySay survey is live now and can be accessed here. It will close on October 27.
