The $33.56 million capital program will invest in infrastructure, community facilities and essential services across the shire.
Chair administrator Graeme Emonson said council was mindful of the cost-of-living pressures facing the community, and remained committed to disciplined financial management.
“This budget strikes the balance the community expects — delivering the everyday services people rely on, investing in long-awaited projects that will make a lasting difference, and working towards long-term financial sustainability, all within a 2.75 per cent rate cap,” he said.
“We are focused on meeting today’s needs without compromising our ability to invest in tomorrow.”
The budget was adopted at the June council meeting, following a period of community consultation.
Roads, drainage and bridges remain a key priority, with $220,000 allocated to the Road Safety Strategy and Action Plan.
This includes a significant investment in road resheeting, resealing, pavement renewal and road restoration programs across the shire’s 3813km road network.
Other major projects include detailed designs for stage two of the Numurkah Flood Levee, the Cobram East Levee, the Karook St upgrade in Cobram and the Cobram Scott Reserve Pavilion.
The budget also supports implementation of council’s Environmental Sustainability Strategy, development of a net-zero emissions strategy and progression of the Urban Canopy Strategy.
Looking ahead, council will begin implementing its Economic Development Strategy 2026-2030, develop a tourism destination management plan and advance a precinct plan for Thompsons Beach in Cobram.
Chief executive Matthew Morgan said the budget had been carefully constructed to deliver genuine community value while addressing the financial challenges facing council.
“Every dollar in this budget has been carefully considered to ensure we are delivering real value to our community,” he said.
“We are also being transparent with our community about council’s financial position.
“Our long-term adjusted underlying result remains in deficit, and we will be developing a financial sustainability strategy by November 30, 2026.
“This strategy will set out a clear pathway to achieving a financially sustainable position by 2028/29, and the community will have a genuine role in shaping its direction.”
To view the 2026/27 budget visit: moira.vic.gov.au
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