Southern Downs Regional Council’s 2025/26 Draft Budget is set to be released for community feedback this week, providing residents with the opportunity to review the draft and make submissions before it is finalised in June.
The draft budget outlines how Council proposes to allocate ratepayer funds over the next financial year to deliver essential services, maintain key infrastructure and support future growth.
Council extends its sincere thanks to all residents who attended the recent community information sessions held across the region. These open community information sessions were an important opportunity for Councillors and Council staff to connect directly with the community, show residents how their rates are prioritised to support the many services and projects that Council delivers, and to help Council better understand the community’s priorities for the region.
Southern Downs Mayor Melissa Hamilton said informing the community about how their rates support a strong and vibrant Southern Downs was vital in helping them understand that every dollar is invested to deliver value to our residents.
“We are incredibly grateful for the enthusiastic turnout and valuable feedback received during our open community information sessions in Stanthorpe, Wallangarra, Leyburn, Allora, Maryvale, Warwick and Killarney,” Mayor Hamilton said.
“These conversations will help shape future priorities to ensure Council’s decisions reflect what matters most to our residents now and in the future.”
Deputy Mayor Sheryl Windle said: “It was great for the community to connect with Councillors and staff to learn more about the different components of the budget and how the budget supports our region. I hope that residents walked away with a clearer understanding of the budget process and how rates are allocated to deliver essential services.”
Councillor Sarah Deane said: “The community consultations gave residents a fantastic opportunity to give feedback to Council in a structured manner, so we know as a Council which services need more attention in the future.
Councillor Morwenna Harslett said: “The budget engagement sessions held across the region recently were a great opportunity for both staff and Councillors of SDRC to connect with the community and to listen to priority areas as identified by residents. As a Councillor, my role is to represent the views of our residents, and these sessions were a valuable opportunity to gauge those views.”
Submissions will be open until 9:00am on Monday 9 June 2025. For more information and to make a submission, please visit: https://www.sdrc.qld.gov.au/living-here/have-your-say/2025-26-budget.
For all the latest Council news and information, download the ‘My SDRC’ App or visit www.sdrc.qld.gov.au. Alternatively, call 1300 MY SDRC (1300 697 372) or email mail@sdrc.qld.gov.au.
Last edited date 27 May 2025