Financial Resilience: 2026-27 Council Budget

Published on 24 June 2026

Council & ELT adopt budet 2026-2027.jpg

Charters Towers Regional Council has adopted its 2026–27 Budget, underpinned by a commitment to financial resilience and responsible financial management, while continuing to deliver essential services, maintain critical infrastructure and invest in the Region’s future.

Mayor Liz Schmidt said financial resilience is about making sound decisions today to ensure Council remains well-positioned for tomorrow.

“In an environment of rising costs and competing demands, financial resilience has never been more important and this budget ensures Council remains financially responsible while continuing to invest in the infrastructure, services and opportunities that support our community's future,” Mayor Schmidt said.

The Budget provides for a $28.4 million Capital Works Program, reflecting Council’s commitment to strategic infrastructure investment while maintaining a disciplined and sustainable financial approach, including:

  • Flood Warning Infrastructure Network supported by North Queensland Resilience Program (NQRP)

  • Water and Sewer monitoring activities partially supported by NQRP

  • All Hazards Risk Study supported by NQRP

  • Road upgrades: Ewan Road, Laroona Road and various road reseals and rehabilitation works supported by Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme and Roads to Recovery funding

  • Bridge Replacement and Arterial Road Floodway Upgrades supported by NQRP

  • Water supply network works including water main replacement, infrastructure renewal and upgrades supported by Works for Queensland  

  • Major Water Infrastructure – Water for Growth supported by Local Government Grant and Subsidies Program

  • Wastewater Renewal and improvements supported by the Community and Recreational Assets Recovery and Resilience Program

  • Public Facilities and Open Spaces delivery: Ongoing renewals, upgrades and improvements of amenities supported by Works for Queensland

The Budget balances pragmatic fiscal management with strategic investment in community priorities, ensuring Council remains sustainable, responsive and capable of meeting the needs of the Region.

Residents will continue to have flexibility in managing their water charges, with the option to choose between an Allocation Tariff and a Two-Part Tariff. The annual water allocation will remain unchanged at 750kL, providing certainty and choice for customers.

The Budget supports the sustainable delivery of Council services and infrastructure through a balanced approach to revenue and expenditure, including a 4.7% increase in general rates.

Water and wastewater charges will continue to be applied on a cost-recovery basis, ensuring these services are funded in line with the actual cost of delivery, supporting Council’s long-term financial sustainability.

Mayor Schmidt also highlighted Council’s ongoing commitment to securing external funding to reduce reliance on ratepayer contributions and maximise the impact of available resources.

“We continue to pursue all available grant and funding opportunities to leverage the Budget further, enabling Council to deliver more for the community while maintaining strong fiscal discipline,’ Mayor Schmidt continued.

Residents are encouraged to explore the full budget and reach out with any questions.

[ENDS]

Photo: Councillors and Executive Leadership Team adopt the 2026-2027 Budget

 

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