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Mayor Alex Makin described the budget as “financially responsible and balanced,” aiming to support the growing community while addressing global economic uncertainty.
It’s not final yet, the draft budget was approved for consultation, it returns to council later for final approval.
There will be special council meeting to hear budget feedback on Wednesday 20 May 2026.
Discontent could emerge as dissent
TWiSK is aware of at least three Councillors who are unhappy with the expenditure distribution. Beyond that, there is also discontent in the usual circles about the rate and fee increases.
The proposed budget includes rate rise of 2.75 per cent, in line with the Victorian Government’s rate cap, which Council notes to be lower than the forecast inflation of 4.9 per cent.
The average combined residential rates and waste charge is set to increase by $49. This increase, along with a proposed three per cent rise in fees and charges.
This is deemed by council to be crucial to fund services, maintenance, and capital projects, and to offset heightened cost pressures, partly driven by the conflict in the Middle East.
Waste charges up
The Default Waste Charge is proposed to increase by $47.70 to $278. Of this increase, $25.20 directly reflects the inclusion of dumped rubbish and public litter bins, which have been removed from general rates.
The remaining $22.50 is attributed to the renewal of the waste collection contract, a six per cent increase in the landfill levy, and inflation on waste expenditure.
This increase is to reflect the true cost recovery for waste services, which include kerbside collections for various waste types, bookable hard waste collections, a mattress collection service, communal waste hubs, collection of dumped rubbish, litter bins, bin replacements, and customer service support.
Despite these increases, Port Phillip will continue to offer a pensioner rates rebate, increasing to up to $242.
Other support measures, such as one-off rate waivers for extreme financial hardship, rates deferment for self-funded retirees, and temporary payment plans, will remain available for eligible ratepayers. The Council also stated that no new debt is proposed, aside from existing finance lease liabilities.
Devil in the detail
The draft budget proposes $120.5 million for capital works and initiatives, including $26 million for parks, open space, and streetscapes, $20 million for essential infrastructure, and $50 million for building improvements. Additionally, $75,000 in extra funding is proposed for Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design initiatives, alongside $0.45 million for Public Place CCTV.
In coming weeks, TWiSK will look at the spending and cuts in more detail.
Community feedback on the Plan for Port Phillip, including the draft budget, is open until May 29.
