The Annual Business Plan and Budget outlines the services, projects, programs and infrastructure Council plans to deliver over the coming financial year. It is informed by community feedback, long-term planning, financial forecasting and Council priorities.

The proposed average residential rate increase for 2026/27 is 5.3% excluding growth in ratable assessments, or approximately 6% inclusive of changes to the fixed charge.

For the average residential property, this equates to an increase of approximately $111 per year, or around $2.13 per week.

While households and councils are both impacted by inflation, the types of costs faced by local government are different.

Councils are responsible for maintaining roads, public buildings, parks, waste services and community facilities. Costs associated with construction, materials, insurance, fuel, utilities and contractors have increased significantly in recent years, often at rates above CPI.

Council is continuing to review costs, prioritise essential services and identify savings opportunities to help reduce pressure on future rate increases.

The fixed charge helps ensure all properties contribute toward the cost of shared community services and infrastructure across the district.

For 2026/27, the fixed charge is proposed to increase from $424 to $468 per annum. This aligns with the outcomes of Council’s recent rating review and supports Council’s endorsed target of increasing the fixed charge component to 25% of total rate revenue.

Rates are Council’s primary source of income and help fund the delivery of essential services, infrastructure and community facilities across the district.

This includes:

• roads and footpaths
• waste collection
• parks and playgrounds
• libraries and community facilities
• recreation infrastructure
• environmental management
• community programs and events

More than 70% of Council’s income comes from rates, with the remaining income generated through grants, fees and charges.

Council has undertaken a range of measures in recent years to improve long-term financial sustainability and reduce pressure on future rate increases, including:

• reducing materials and contracts budgets
• reviewing service delivery and operational costs
• pursuing external grant funding opportunities
• improving long-term asset planning
• implementing energy efficiency initiatives
• identifying operational efficiencies and savings opportunities where appropriate

Council continues to balance affordability with the need to maintain essential services and infrastructure for the community.

Council’s total operating and capital expenditure for 2026/27 is forecast at approximately $29.3 million.

This includes:

• approximately $21.4 million for ongoing services, operations and community programs
• approximately $5.7 million for infrastructure renewal and capital projects

Council continues to focus on renewing essential infrastructure while investing in projects and services that support community wellbeing and liveability.

Council has introduced quarterly performance reporting across all functions and services.

This reporting will provide updates on:

• financial performance
• delivery of projects and services
• key achievements and delays
• progress against Council’s Community Plan priorities

This approach is intended to improve transparency, accountability and community understanding of Council’s performance throughout the year.

Council understands that some households and businesses may be experiencing financial pressure and support options are available.

Support may include:

• payment arrangements
• hardship assistance
• State Government concessions and rebates
• referrals to financial counselling services

Anyone experiencing difficulty meeting their rates payments is encouraged to contact Council’s Finance Team on 8580 3000 or via council@rpc.sa.gov.au to discuss available support options confidentially.