Budget positions City for growth while keeping rates low
Published 13 June 2025
- Still one of the lowest rates in SEQ with minimum general rate rise of 87 cents per week
- Record $1 billion budget
- Almost $400 million capital commitment
- Solid focus on forward planning with surplus invested to fund city-building projects
City of Moreton Bay has handed down a landmark $1 billion budget, delivering record investment in infrastructure and capital works, while still maintaining one of the lowest rates in South East Queensland.
Ensuring the City is ready to meet the demands of our rapidly growing population, the City budget is over $1 billion with a record capex budget of almost $400 million. The Council has worked hard to identify $15 million in operational savings so we can keep rates as low as possible.
Mayor Peter Flannery said the modest minimum general rate rise for owner occupiers of only .87cents a week, or just $45 a year, ensures the budget balanced affordability with ambition, whilst also building up strategic reserves to enable long-term city-building projects.
“City of Moreton Bay is in a strong financial position, with a low level of debt compared to many other SEQ councils.
“We’re living within our means but looking to the future. We are also conscious that cost of living pressures are impacting our residents, so we aim to keep rates as low as possible.
“Thanks to prudent financial management, we’ve been able to limit rate rises, to ensure we continue to fund day-to-day services while also planning for our rapidly growing population.
“I’m pleased that more than a third of our 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.
“We’ll continue to lead the way as the only SEQ Council to offer discounts* for self-funded retirees. Alongside discounts for pensioners and part pensioners, these cost of living measures will benefit more than 31,000 ratepayers.
“Going green as we grow, Council remains committed to environmental initiatives.
Council will also continue to offer free tipping ** for eligible residents whilst having one of the lowest SEQ waste management charges.
“Through operational efficiencies and smart planning, we have identified $15 million in savings to keep our rates as low as possible whilst delivering value-for-money services for the community.
“Our record investment of almost $400 million in infrastructure and capital works will support local jobs and deliver vital projects including: Caboolture River Road, planning for Buchanan Road, Old Gympie Road upgrade and bridge construction at Youngs Crossing Road, delivery of the Deception Bay SES Depot, Centenary Lakes Activation projects, building a new Suttons Beach Pavilion, continued development of The Mill site, and the Bongaree to Woorim Active and Public Transport Network Connection.
“The 2025-26 budget is fiscally responsible. It doesn’t just deliver value for money now, ensuring our residents continue to receive high quality services, it also sets us up for future growth.
“As one of Australia’s fastest growing areas with an expected population of 1 million people in around 30 years, Council is planning ahead so City of Moreton Bay retains its enviable lifestyle as we grow.
“This budget is about more than numbers - it is setting us up to thrive.
“From improved roads to greener parks and stronger communities, we’re putting your rates to work, to build a better City of Moreton Bay… the city of tomorrow.
Explore the full budget and see what’s coming to your local area at Budget and Operational Plan 2025-26 - City of Moreton Bay
*Remissions are: $250 p.a. per eligible pensioner property, $100 p.a. per eligible part pensioner property and for self-funded retirees, $75 p.a. per eligible property where the retiree holds a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card.
** Up to 3 tonnes or 26 visits
Divisional quotes:
Councillor Brooke Savige, Division 1, said the 2025-26 Budget delivers key infrastructure upgrades that support active lifestyles and improve access to public spaces for all residents.
“This budget strengthens our coastal lifestyle by investing in better roads, upgraded facilities, and more accessible spaces for recreation and relaxation,” she said.
“On top of Council’s $8 million commitment to protect and enhance our beaches and coastal areas, we’re delivering local projects that make it easier for residents to spend more time outdoors, enjoying well-designed public spaces.”
Councillor Mark Booth, Division 2, said the 2025-26 Budget delivers a strong investment in roads and infrastructure for the city.
“Improving transport networks through Council’s $64 million road rehabilitation and resurfacing program builds a more connected and resilient community,” he said.
“Enhancements to road safety, playgrounds and renewal of our infrastructure will help ensure our residents live in a safe and accessible Division 2.”
Councillor Adam Hain, Division 3, said the 2025-26 Budget is about shaping more connected, liveable, and vibrant communities.
“Upgrades to crucial road corridors like Caboolture River Road, will help ease traffic congestion and support new housing in our growth areas,” he said.
“I’m also looking forward to the transformation of the Centenary Lakes precinct. These enhancements will create a welcoming environment for walkers, promote active travel, support our local footy club, and breathe new life into Caboolture’s most iconic location.”
Councillor Jodie Shipway, Division 4 said the 2025-26 Budget helps to link key destinations and improve active transport pathways.
“Alongside Council’s $21 million investment in active transport and footpaths, this budget is committed to delivering walkable and rideable facilities for our City,” she said.
“Encouraging walking and cycling is great for the City, and for Division 4, ensuring facilities and schools are accessible is crucial for residents.”
Councillor Sandra Ruck, Division 5, said the 2025-26 Budget is about enhancing everyday life for residents through investments in local infrastructure, the environment and public safety.
“I’m pleased to see construction of the new SES depot in Deception Bay, which will help keep our community safe during emergencies,” she said.
“Council is also investing $11.5 million in public safety and disaster management to strengthen our city’s resilience, as well as delivering a range of projects across Division 5 that enhance local lifestyles, protect our environment, and support the wellbeing of our growing community.”
Councillor Karl Winchester, Division 6, said the 2025-26 Budget delivers key upgrades to infrastructure and coastal areas that are widely enjoyed by residents.
“The $14.5 million investment into the Suttons Beach Pavillion redevelopment over the next two financial years, will bring new life to the City’s much-loved seaside precinct,” he said.
“This upgrade, along with foreshore upgrades in Division 6 will offer welcoming, relaxed and accessible infrastructure for our community.”
Councillor Yvonne Barlow, Division 7, said the 2025-26 Budget delivers a range of improvements for residents, supporting healthier, safer and more connected neighbourhoods.
“As our population continues to grow, improvements to the Old Gympie Road corridor, as part of the $142.5 million upgrade, will reduce travel times and improve traffic flow, making a more efficient, connected and resilient road network,” she said.
“This budget is about delivering the everyday improvements that matter most, for Division 7 this includes better parks, safer roads, and more accessible public spaces.”
Councillor Jim Moloney, Division 8, said the 2025-26 Budget will deliver much needed major infrastructure across the city.
“It’s great to see works beginning at Youngs Crossing, this upgrade is one of the biggest road infrastructure projects to be delivered by Council and is a crucial road connection within our city” he said.
“I’m also thrilled to see progress at The Mill, with works set to bring this new Olympic venue precinct to life.”
Councillor Cath Tonks, Division 9, said the 2025-26 Budget balances environmental stewardship with the delivery of practical, community-focused projects.
“We are going green as we grow, with $16 million committed over four years to the Environmental Land Buyback program,” she said.
“We’re also investing in projects that ensure our community spaces are safer, more comfortable, and better equipped to support active lifestyles and growing participation.”
Councillor Matt Constance, Division 10, said the 2025-26 Budget is a future-focused investment in the long-term liveability, accessibility, and resilience of the Hills District and surrounding communities.
“This Budget is about more than just maintaining what we have - it’s about building for the future,” he said.
“From inclusive playgrounds and upgraded community facilities to visionary precinct planning, we’re laying the groundwork for a more connected, accessible, and vibrant City of Moreton Bay.
Councillor Darren Grimwade, Division 11, said the 2025-26 Budget responds to the needs of a growing community with projects that improve connectivity, safety, and recreation.
“This budget is about delivering the upgrades our communities need - whether that’s safer roads, better parks, or supporting our local clubs by improving facilities,” he said.
“Thanks to Council’s $80 million investment in parks and open spaces, we’re able to deliver more vibrant, inclusive and active places for families, young people and community groups to enjoy.”
Councillor Tony Latter, Division 12, said the 2025-26 Budget reflects our priorities, focusing on delivering for locals and making Moreton Bay an even better place to live.
“This year’s Budget isn’t just about planning for future growth - it’s also about maintaining and improving the infrastructure we already have, making sure our roads, parks, and community spaces continue to meet the needs of our residents today,” he said.
“We’re putting funding into the things that matter most to residents - better roads, better parks, and improved community spaces that bring people together and make everyday life that little bit better.”