Have Your Say on the Draft Budget 2026-27
Last updated on 05 May 2026
A pragmatic approach, external influences, and community submissions have all informed the preparation of the draft Budget 2026-27, with key elements now open for community consultation.
Council’s Budget 2026-27 aims to provide a high level of deliverables and services to the Macedon Ranges community, focusing on asset renewal and reinvesting in existing infrastructure, while keeping rates in line with the rate cap.
This balanced budget features a proposed Capital Works spend of $16.23 million including investment in Council-managed roads, buildings, footpaths, drainage and more, while specific projects include:
- upgraded irrigation and drainage at the Malmsbury Botanic Gardens
- increased free green waste drop-off weeks from two to eight, plus vouchers
- support for Thriving Villages, a grassroots initiative that supports businesses, residents, and local government to revitalise our town centres through the creation of Town Centre Activation Plans
- increased funding provided to Neighbourhood Houses across the shire for the year, to reflect growing demand for emergency relief, foodbanks and other valuable supports
- upgrades to the Kyneton Showgrounds Grandstand roof to ensure longevity of this well-utilised location.
In considering next financial year’s budget, Mayor Kate Kendall said Council took a realistic approach to the current economic climate, including contingency plans for compounding crises such as the current fuel crisis.
“An expansion in the number of free green waste weeks, a reduction in annual pass fees to Hanging Rock, freezing selected business-related fees and charges – these are just a few of the practical measures proposed as part of this budget that ease cost pressures for residents, support local businesses, and improve how Council delivers services,” she said.
“I’d like to thank all those who took the time to make a submission during the initial budget consultation in late 2025, and now I encourage everyone to visit our Your Say online engagement hub, find out more about what we’re proposing, and tell us what you think.”
Consultation is now open, including concise highlights and breakdown documents, with submissions invited until 22 May 2026. Feedback received during this period will be presented to Council, together with the draft Budget 2026-27, for consideration at the June 2026 Council Meeting.
Visit From ideas to action: 2026-27 Budget to find out more and have your say.