Submit your initiatives for the Budget 2024/25 and Council Plan

Individuals or groups are being encouraged to put forward their case for Macedon Ranges Shire Council funding in the 2024/25 financial year as part of an earlier, streamlined budget consultation process.

Through to Monday 20 November, the council welcomes submissions from the community for the Budget 2024/25 and Council Plan 2021-2031 (Year Four). In a change to previous years, this is the only formal public consultation period for these two key documents.

The full Draft Budget and Council Plan documents will be included in the agenda of meeting papers before being adopted by the end of the financial year – an approach consistent with a number of other councils.

“Getting input from the community early, with adoption of Council’s annual budget aimed for the May Council Meeting, will enable us to be more responsive to community attitudes and be fully prepared for action from 1 July 2024,” Mayor Annette Death said.

“Even if you – or the group you are representing – don’t yet have detailed costings for what you would like funded at this early stage, we encourage you to still submit your initial idea now for consideration, and then submit more detailed costings as soon as you are able to.

“Your valuable ideas will be sent directly to the appropriate Council department for consideration and will inform the preparation of our next Budget 2024/25, ensuring our officers and Councillors understand the community’s current priorities and can strike the right balance.”

The annual budget ensures Council can continue to deliver essential services to the community, while also progressing a range of strategically chosen infrastructure projects and other initiatives to support our growing shire.

Funding available each financial year mostly comprises rate revenue, external funding through grants that the council works hard to advocate for on behalf of the community, and other regular fees and charges.

Those interested in making a submission are encouraged to contact customer service to seek advice or assistance from council officers in preparing their budget idea, ensuring the council can provide prompt support and boost the quality of submissions.

Submitters will be able to speak to their proposals at a Submitters Delegated Committee meeting, to be held online in early 2024.