Moreton Bay City Council approves $1bn budget, ‘modest’ general rate rise

Moreton Bay City Council says it has been able to limit rate rises in its new $1 billion budget as it targets record spending in infrastructure and capital works projects.

Council says it has a record capital expenditure (capex) budget of almost $400 million after making $15m in cuts to ensure rates are as low as possible.

Mayor Peter Flannery described the minimum general rate rise for owner occupiers of only 87 cents a week, or $45 a year, as modest.

He says the budget will balance affordability with ambition while building up its reserves for long-term building projects.

“Moreton Bay is in a strong financial position with a low level of debt compared to many other SEQ councils,” he says.

“We’re living within our means but looking to the future. We are conscious that cost of living pressures are impacting our residents so we aim to keep rates as low as possible.”

Flannery says that more than a third of the area’s owner-occupier residents are on the minimum general rate.

“Non-residential property owners and business will also benefit with rate rises kept at the same low increased percentage as residential properties,” he says.

Flannery says they’ll continue to offer discounts for self-funded retiree ratepayers (all 31,000-plus of them) and remain green with free tipping (up to 3 tonnes or 26 visits) for residents.

“Our record investment of almost $400m in infrastructure and capital works will support local jobs and deliver vital projects,” he says.

He identified such projects as Caboolture River Road, planning for Buchanan Road, Old Gympie Road upgrade and bridge construction at Youngs Crossing Road, a new Deception Bay SES Depot, Centenary Lakes Activation projects, a new Suttons Beach Pavilion, development of The Mill site, and the Bongaree to Woorim public transport connection.

“As one of Australia’s fastest growing areas with an expected population of one million people in around 30 years, council is planning ahead,” he says.

“This budget is about more than numbers – it is setting us up to thrive.”