Council’s draft budget focused on infrastructure, sustainability and growth
The draft budget has been developed in the context of sustained population growth, increasing demand for infrastructure and services, and rising costs across construction, labour, insurance, finance and utilities.
Mayor David Leach said the draft plan aimed to balance investment in essential infrastructure and services with affordability for ratepayers.
“Mount Barker continues to experience significant growth and with that comes increasing demand for roads, recreation facilities, open space, community infrastructure and essential services,” Mayor Leach said.
“This budget has been developed to ensure we continue investing in the infrastructure and services our community needs, while also recognising the cost-of-living pressures many households are currently facing.”
The draft budget proposes a 4.9 per cent general rate increase for existing ratepayers, aligning with the Adelaide Consumer Price Index (CPI) for March 2026, along with an additional 4.25 per cent increase in revenue generated through development growth.
The budget also includes ongoing investment in environmental initiatives, recreation and open space, community services, and the maintenance and renewal of Council assets across the district.
The continuing major capital items in the draft plan include the City Centre Project and the Laratinga Water Recovery Plant, both forecast for completion in 2028/29.
The council has established a subsidiary, GMB Water, which now operates the wastewater services of Council and is currently building the new Laratinga Water Recovery Plant and associated major trunk sewers.
Mayor Leach said the projects represented important long-term investments in the future of the district.
“These are significant intergenerational projects that will help support the liveability, sustainability and long-term growth of our community for decades to come,” he said.
Council has also flagged that rising inflation or interest rates beyond current forecasts may require future reprioritisation of projects and services to maintain long-term financial sustainability.
Mayor Leach encouraged community members to review the draft documents and provide feedback as part of the consultation process.
“We want the community to take the time to read the draft Annual Business Plan and Budget, ask questions and provide feedback before any final decisions are made,” he said.
“Community input is an important part of the process and helps ensure Council continues delivering on the priorities that matter most to our district.”
The community can review the draft Annual Business Plan and Budget through Council’s Your Say site – yoursay.mountbarker.sa.gov.au or at the library and customer service centre.
Feedback can be provided by 5pm, Wednesday 24 June 2026 on the Your Say site, by mail or email or presenting in person, at a public meeting on Monday 15 June commencing at 6:00pm at the Mount Barker Council Chambers, 6 Dutton Road, Mount Barker.
