The City of Mandurah is inviting the community to have their say on its proposed 2025/26 rates and Long Term Financial Plan, which outlines how the City will responsibly manage infrastructure, services and community priorities over the next 10 years.
In a time when many households are feeling the pinch of cost-of-living pressures, the City of Mandurah is focused on managing a responsible and balanced budget that recognises these challenges while continuing to invest in essential community infrastructure and services for current and future generations.
Mandurah’s long-term infrastructure needs and rising service delivery costs are central to the City’s proposed budget for 2025/26, with Council endorsing a 4.08 percent rate increase for public consultation.
Mayor Caroline Knight said the budget has been carefully shaped to ensure the City can maintain and renew its $1.5 billion asset base, while continuing to deliver the services and programs that the community values most.
“We know that cost-of-living pressures are real for many in our community, and that’s been front of mind as we’ve developed this budget,” Mayor Knight said.
“At the same time, the City is also facing increased costs across the board – from electricity and insurance to materials and services. This proposed rate increase that is being advertised strikes a responsible balance between easing pressure where we can, and investing in the services and facilities that our community needs now and into the future.
“Mandurah experienced rapid growth over the past two decades, and with that came significant investment in new infrastructure. But as our population growth now steadies, our priority must shift to responsibly managing what we have – keeping our spaces safe, accessible and fit for the future.”
The proposed 2025/26 rate increase is made up of a 3.4 percent rise to cover cost escalations across key areas like utilities, insurance, staff wages and contracts, and an additional 0.68 percent specifically to boost asset renewal investment, as part of Council’s long-term financial strategy.
“While any rate increase is never taken lightly, this measured approach helps us avoid sudden spikes in future years and continue to invest in the roads, parks, footpaths, facilities and services that are used and enjoyed every day by our community,” Mayor Knight said.
The 4.08 percent increase equates to an average of $69.44 a year, or $1.34 per week, for the average residential property. This supports the continued delivery of free and low-cost community programs, upgrades to key community assets, and the long-term sustainability of City services.
The community is invited to have their say on the proposed rates and Long Term Financial Plan by visiting mandurahmatters.com.au before 19 June 2025.
