Banana Shire Council has adopted its 2025/26 budget, committing to a $46.1 million capital works program that continues to invest in critical infrastructure and community improvements, while maintaining a responsible financial position.

Council is projecting an operating surplus of $41,000 and a net surplus of $19.5 million after capital items, supported by strong external funding and fully funded depreciation.

Mayor Neville Ferrier said the budget strikes a balance between supporting the region’s long-term financial sustainability and delivering the infrastructure needed to grow the local economy and enhance liveability.

“This year’s budget builds on the hard work of previous years. We’re continuing to upgrade roads, improve water and sewerage infrastructure, and deliver recreational facilities that contribute to the quality of life in our Shire,” Mayor Ferrier said.

Key capital projects in 2025/26 include:

• Biloela Splash Park – $3 million
• Injune Road Stage Two – $4.17 million
• Boundary Hill Waste Facility – $3.92 million
• Magavalis Netball Court Upgrades – $2.18 million
• Orange Creek Road (Stage Two) – $1.93 million
• Theodore Water Treatment Plant Upgrade (Stage One) – $1.88 million
• Shepardson Road Rehabilitation – $1.8 million
• Jambin Dakenba Road Rehabilitation – $1.4 million
• Paines Road Reconstruction – $1 million

The program will be supported by $16.2 million in external funding, including contributions from state and federal sources.

Council has applied an average rate increase of 4.42% across all categories, with most residential ratepayers seeing around a 3% increase. To help reduce the impact of property revaluations over the past two years, rate capping has been retained, ensuring more consistent charges for rural and residential ratepayers.

Council has taken proactive steps to strengthen its financial position in 2025/26, following a challenging year impacted by major infrastructure spending and natural disaster recovery works.

“It’s important we maintain a strong financial base while continuing to deliver the services and infrastructure our community expects,” Mayor Ferrier said. “We’ve secured record external funding this year, and that’s allowed us to deliver for the region without overburdening ratepayers.”

The 2025/26 budget reflects Council’s ongoing commitment to responsible financial management, sustainable growth, and improved outcomes for residents across the Banana Shire.

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