2026/27 Annual Business Plan and Budget
We're seeking community feedback on our draft 2026/27 Annual Business Plan and Budget.
The draft 2026/27 Annual Business Plan describes how Council will allocate its budget and what services, programs and projects it intends to undertake in the coming financial year.
Overview of the draft 2026/27 Annual Business Plan and Budget
Victor Harbor is on the cusp of significant growth and change, and the decisions Council makes now will shape the future of our city. This year's plan reflects a long-term focus and a commitment to responsible financial management. We know many in our community are feeling cost-of-living pressures, and that has remained front of mind for Council throughout the budget process.
The proposed budget includes $13.9 million in net capital expenditure, and a $42.8 million operating budget with a forecast deficit of $1.9 million. Putting forward a deficit budget has been considered carefully and aligns with Council’s Long Term Financial Plan, which sets out a clear path back to surpluses in future years.
The draft budget also proposes an average rates increase of 6.4%, made up of the March 2026 Quarter CPI of 4.9% plus a 1.5% financial sustainability index. For the average residential property, this represents an increase of approximately $193 per year, or around $3.70 per week.
The proposed rate increase is about making sure Council can continue to deliver essential services, maintain community assets and plan responsibly for the future. It reflects a future-focused approach that helps Council navigate the challenges that come with preparing for growth while avoiding larger and more difficult increases later, supporting the best long-term outcome for the community.
Key initiatives included within the draft 2026/27Annual Business Plan include continuing strategic growth planning, corporate systems optimisation, the upgrade of Whalers Road, transition of the Encounter Community Centre to Council management, lighting and AV upgrades for the Town Hall and Cinema, ongoing partnership with Business Victor Harbor, establishment of a community garden and nursery, Inman River coastal and flood protection works, delivery of a $520,000 footpath program, completion of an integrated transport study, and facilitation of the 2026 Council elections.
Planning will also continue for the Regional Community, Sport and Recreation Precinct project, with Council working towards finalising the agreement for lease and construction arrangements. Council has made the deliberate decision to defer its $11.7 million construction contribution, along with the associated remaining rate increase increments, to future years to help spread costs over time for ratepayers.
Have Your Say
You can provide your feedback on the draft plan:
- Online – Complete the submission form
- In writing– address your submission to the Chief Executive Officer as return via:
- Post to PO Box 11, Victor Harbor SA 5211
- Email to localgov@victor.sa.gov.au
- Deliver in person to the City of Victor Harbor Civic Centre.
- Attend our public meeting – at 5.30pm on Tuesday, 30 June 2026 in the Council Chambers at the City of Victor Harbor Civic Centre.
The consultation period will close at 5pm on Wednesday, 1 July 2026.
