Bundaberg Regional Council
2026-27 Budget
Mayor's message
Council on course with positive budget result
Connecting the CBD and river plus critical infrastructure upgrades are highlights in a Bundaberg Regional Council budget which continues its journey to financial security.
Mayor Helen Blackburn said in delivering the 2026 – 2027 budget some tough decisions had been made to balance the needs of the community against limiting rates increases.
She said the result was that Council was continuing to head in the right direction.
“This is a responsible budget which recognises the cost of living impacts on ratepayers and on the services Council delivers while also ensuring that we do not lose the positive momentum we have achieved in the last two years,” Mayor Blackburn said.
“We are still working to correct imbalances which have been created by ups and downs in rates increases.
“We have gone from projecting a decade of budget deficits to forecasting surpluses.
“However, we are by no means at our target for true financial sustainability because the type of financial repair we need to achieve is a long and complex journey.
“What that means is that we’re keeping our community on course to remain viable into the future. This isn’t a budget for today, it’s a budget for the security of the future, particularly based on the significant growth that we have seen.
“Our goal is to introduce stability and predictability into the Council rating process so that our community can rely on our Long Term Financial Planning and we can have the most transparent process possible.”
Mayor Blackburn said despite the difficult climate there were many highlights within this year’s budget as Council continued to deliver high quality services and infrastructure.
“We’re focused on delivering the most critical infrastructure upgrades and improvements.
“Our $116.3 million capital budget has gone through a rigorous prioritisation process to ensure we’re delivering the best value for money and the highest possible community benefit.
“Key projects like the Childers Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrade and Elliott Heads Growth Precinct sewer rising and water mains will remain a focus to ensure that we’re maintaining appropriate standards and planning for growth and housing availability.
“Across our core services of our roads, pathways and stormwater networks, rubbish, water and wastewater we’re investing $97.3 million within our capital budget.
“But we’re also investing in increased vibrancy and connection for our community as we continue to work with all levels of government to enhance Quay Street.
“Our vibrant street vision for Quay Street will see significant amenity and connectivity improvements made to better balance vehicle and pedestrian movements and further support our plans for the revitalisation of the CBD.”
Mayor Blackburn said Council was continuing to advocate for funding from other levels of government to reduce the burden on the Bundaberg Region community for critical infrastructure.
“This includes infrastructure which will support the current housing crisis and flood mitigation.
“Our current advocacy priorities for flood mitigation include flood gates and a temporary levee which could be strategically placed to reduce floor level inundation ahead of a forecast flood event.”
Other budget highlights include:
- Motorists: A more than $47 million investment in the roads and transport network will improve safety and flood resilience and respond to growth.
- Lifestyle: Council has created a Destination Event attraction budget to secure high level events of community interest or economic benefit within the region. Health and recreation opportunities will abound with investment in additional pathways and, subject to a pending grant application, the replacement of the athletics facility track.
- Family and kids: Funds will be invested in upgrading shade structures at playgrounds across the region and literacy programs will continue at the region’s libraries in Bundaberg, Childers and Gin Gin.
- Business: Support will continue for the Safe Spaces, Thriving Places campaign to reclaim the vibrancy of the Bundaberg CBD with investment in CCTV upgrades and revitalisation and activation opportunities featured in the budget alongside the Quay Street vibrant street project.
- Community: grant funding support will continue with more than $900,000 invested across Council’s various grant programs and disability compliance improvements will be made at community halls in Woodgate, Elliott Heads and Waterloo.
Council’s 2026 – 2027 budget document and associated resources can be found here.
Finance
Budget in uncertain times to firm foundations
Bundaberg Regional Council’s 2026-2027 budget has balanced the impacts of cost increases and market volatility with prudent spending, firming the foundations of the region’s financial security.
Budget highlights:
- This budget is projecting an $8.4 million surplus. These funds are below the target Council needs to achieve to make principal debt repayments, plan for growth and respond to unforeseen circumstances.
- For an Urban Residential ratepayer, the general rate will increase by 8.28% which is equivalent to about $2.40 a week.
- To achieve financial sustainability immediately Council would have had to introduce a minimum general rates increase of at least 13.2% this year however Council knew this would be an unfair burden on ratepayers.
Following significant changes ahead of its 2025 – 2026 budget, which included an organisational restructure, operational efficiencies and a rates review, Council is continuing its positive financial turnaround.
The Long Term Financial Plan confirms that, despite facing more than a decade of deficits just two years ago, the organisation is projecting surpluses for the next eight years before meeting the surplus target it needs by 2035.
Finance portfolio spokesperson Cr Deb Keslake said this continued improvement in the region’s financial security was a positive result however it was crucial that Council remained on course.
“We’ve made positive progress in repairing our finances and we’ll keep building for the future,” Cr Deb Keslake said.
“While we are in a position where we’re making difficult decisions today, we’re firming the foundations for tomorrow to secure our region’s future.”
In the 2026 – 2027 budget Council is projecting an almost $8.4 million surplus, however this result remains below the organisation’s goal to achieve a 5% surplus of recurrent expenditure.
“It’s important that the community understand that a surplus isn’t just ‘money in the bank’,” Cr Keslake explained.
“These are critical funds which ensure we can make our principal debt repayments, plan for growth through the renewal and upgrade of our critical infrastructure and respond to unforeseen circumstances.
“During the current market uncertainty caused by global conflicts and supply chain issues, which have led to an average of 30% cost increases in many of the sectors that impact Council, having this additional capacity becomes even more important.
“While it is a positive result to achieve a surplus, having this surplus sitting below our target is also evidence that we need to continue to implement strategies to achieve financial security.”
Cr Keslake said Council understood that residents were also facing cost of living impacts.
“We know many locals are doing it tough which is why our rating strategy focuses on ensuring general rates are applied fairly and equitably across all categories.
“As a result the general rates for people’s homes have been kept as low as possible.
“For an Urban Residential ratepayer, the general rate will increase by 8.28% which is equivalent to about $2.40 a week.
“If we were to return our organisation to full financial sustainability immediately, we could have been looking at a minimum general rates increase of at least 13.2%.
“We know many residents are already doing it tough so that simply was not an option.
“Instead, we are taking a slow and steady approach in a very uncertain market ensuring we remain financially responsible while still supporting our community.
“This is why we are prepared to focus on achieving the surplus we need in the long term.”
Cr Keslake said overall, when including charges for utility costs including waste, water and wastewater, the average urban residential ratepayer would see an increase of $4.29 per week, which was a slightly lower increase than last year.
Motorists
Budget invests $47 million for road safety, growth and resilience
Safer school zones, flood resilience and safety upgrades are part of Bundaberg Regional Council’s more than $47 million investment into roads through the 2026 - 2027 Budget.
The funding is set to prepare the region’s road and transport infrastructure for long-term growth.
Here’s just some of the works being funded in this year’s budget:
Safer access around Bundaberg North State High School
New pedestrian infrastructure will be delivered near Bundaberg North State High School to improve safety for students, parents and residents.
The upgrades will focus on the area around:
- Marks Street
- Barber Street
- the Mount Perry Road service road
Planned works include:
- new zebra crossings
- wombat crossings
- improved connections between the school, bus stops and parking areas
The project is also designed to make it easier and safer for students travelling between Bundaberg North State High School and Bundaberg North State Primary School.
Traffic calming planned for Sims Road
Traffic calming measures will be developed along Sims Road following ongoing concerns about speeding and a history of serious crashes.
The planned upgrades include:
- reducing the speed limit to 50 km/h
- upgraded wombat crossings
- improvements to the Boundary Street intersection
The works are aimed at improving safety for both motorists and pedestrians using the area.
Future upgrades planned for Targo Street
Funding has also been set aside for the future reconstruction of Targo Street.
The project is expected to include:
- resurfacing works
- drainage upgrades
- kerb and channel replacement
- new footpath links
- streetscape improvements
The upgrades are intended to reduce maintenance costs while creating a more functional and accessible street environment.
Major works continuing on Wallaville Goondoon Road
Significant funds have been allocated across two stages of upgrades to Wallaville Goondoon Road during 2026/27.
The works will include:
- pavement rehabilitation
- widening the road to 7.5 metres
- drainage improvements
- targeted safety upgrades
The upgrades will be carried out in line with Council’s Network Safety Plan, with the project designed to improve road safety, reliability and the long-term lifespan of the rural route.
Flood resilience upgrades for rural roads
Council has also allocated funding to improve flood resilience and transport reliability in rural parts of the region.
Boaga Road floodway renewal
A renewal of the Boaga Road floodway at Mullet Creek will replace ageing infrastructure with a new low-level concrete floodway.
The project is designed to:
- better withstand flooding events
- improve reliability during wet weather
- meet environmental requirements near Littabella National Park
Kolan Flats Road crossing upgrade
At Maroondan upgrades will be carried out at the Gin Gin Creek crossing on Kolan Flats Road.
The existing deteriorated floodways and ageing timber bridge will be replaced with a new low-level concrete floodway.
Additional works will include:
- a rocked fish ramp
- extra safety treatments
- improvements for regular water flow conditions
The project will help improve safety and reliability for road users in the area.
Families
Budget delivers family-friendly spaces and programs
More shade for playgrounds, upgraded parks plus literacy and learning programs at local libraries are just some of the ways Bundaberg Regional Council’s 2026 - 2027 Budget is supporting families.
This financial year, Council continues to deliver projects and programs designed to support active lifestyles, improve accessibility and create welcoming community spaces for residents of all ages.
These include:
More shade planned for playgrounds and recreation areas
Additional shade structures are in the works for parks and recreation spaces across the region to improve comfort and usability for families year-round.
Priority projects include:
- new shade structures at Childers Kindergarten
- new shade over the fitness equipment area at Banksia Park, Woodgate
- an additional shade sail over the Banksia Park playground
Further locations will be announced as planning progresses.
The upgrades are aimed at improving sun safety while encouraging outdoor recreation and community connection.
Wallaville Park and playground upgrade
A major upgrade will continue at Wallaville Park to create a more accessible and family-friendly recreation space for kids of all ages – plus the young at heart!
The project includes:
- a multi-use court featuring a half basketball court
- barbecue
- a new playground
- two new replacement shelters and tables
- a 1.5-metre-wide pathway connecting the front park gate, accessible toilet and play facilities and more.
The upgrades are designed to improve accessibility while creating more opportunities for outdoor play and community gatherings.
Continued support for First 5 Forever program
Council will continue delivering the First 5 Forever initiative through the Bundaberg Regional Libraries network, supporting early childhood literacy and learning opportunities for families.
Supported by the Queensland Government and coordinated through the State Library of Queensland, the program provides more than $78,000 in annual grant funding.
The initiative encourages families to Talk, Read, Sing and Play every day to support early childhood development and lifelong learning.
Programs delivered through First 5 Forever across the region include:
- Baby Rattle and Rhyme at Bundaberg Library
- Toddler Sing and Smile at Bundaberg Library
- Learn and Play Storytime at Bundaberg Library
- Story Time at Childers Library
- Story Play at Gin Gin Library
Additional initiatives such as the First 5 Forever giveaway provide free literacy toolkits, books and educational toys to families through local library branches without bookings or registrations.
Business
Budget delivers business boost
Boosting business and the local economy has been prioritised in Bundaberg Regional Council’s 2026-2027 Budget with continued plans to breathe life back into the Bundaberg CBD.
The Safe Spaces Thriving Places initiative is set to continue with new investments maintaining Council’s positive progress in this whole-of-community initiative.
The development of a new Planning Scheme is among the highlights of a raft of activity set to boost the local economy, in addition to key advocacy priorities and the implementation of the Bundaberg Regional Economic Development Strategy.
Here’s just a few of the highlights for businesses and the economy over the next 12 months:
Reclaiming the CBD
The Bundaberg CBD is a critical economic hub to not only the Bundaberg Region but the broader Wide Bay area and Council will continue to invest in its enhancement.
Some of the activities which will support the ongoing Safe Spaces Thriving Places initiative include:
- continued upgrades to CCTV throughout the CBD in conjunction with the Safe Night Precinct.
- funding for economic revitalisation and activation opportunities in the CBD.
- investing in increased vibrancy and connection for the CBD and riverside as Council continues to work with all levels of government to enhance Quay Street. The vibrant street vision for this area will better balance vehicle and pedestrian movements and further support plans for the revitalisation of the CBD.
Planning for a bright future
The economic future of the region will be strengthened through the development of a new Bundaberg Regional Council Planning Scheme to allow for sustainable and strategic growth.
Keeping the planning scheme current and up-to-date is critical to ensuring the Bundaberg Region remains competitive and attractive to investors while protecting its character, heritage and environment.
Strategic focus areas include:
- improving housing affordability and supply to support a growing population and attract skilled workers to the region.
- facilitating rural industries and agritourism to further strengthen and value-add to the region’s agricultural sector.
- optimising the availability and use of industrial land, promoting industrial development and diversification.
- regulating development only to the extent necessary and streamlining planning processes to deliver timely assessment outcomes.
Advocacy priorities
Council will continue to advocate for opportunities which will boost the region’s profile and contribute to economic growth with a key focus being:
- attracting additional airlines and routes to the Bundaberg Regional Airport.
- leveraging any opportunities that arise from the 2032 Olympic Games.
- hotel investment attraction.
- unlocking the potential of the Port of Bundaberg.
By proactively highlighting and championing these key issues with other levels of government and the private sector Council can seek progress on behalf of the Bundaberg Region community.
Small Business Friendly
The Bundaberg Region Economic Development Strategy 2025 – 2035 reaffirms Council’s commitment to being Small Business Friendly.
Council will continue to create a supportive environment for start-ups and small businesses through partnerships with local chambers of commerce, The Generator (a co-working space of Regional Business HQ) and delivering the annual Small Business Friendly Action Plan.
This focus strengthens the Bundaberg Region’s reputation as a business-friendly region.
Core services
Capital investment focus on core services
Critical infrastructure upgrades and improvements are being delivered in Bundaberg Regional Council’s 2026 – 2027 budget with a focus on core services.
In an overall capital budget of $116.3 million a total of $97.3 million will be invested across core services of roads (including pathways and stormwater networks), rubbish, water and wastewater.
The capital investment program has undergone a rigorous prioritisation process to focus Council funds and investment on delivering the best value for money and the highest possible community benefit.
Here’s just some of the highlights:
Roads spend improves safety, resilience
A more than $47 million investment in the roads and transport network will improve safety and flood resilience and respond to growth.
For more, read the budget information for motorists.
Pathways deliver greater connection
Over the next 12 months Council will invest $2.9 million into upgrading and renewing pathways across the region.
This will include:
- Saltwater Creek footbridge restoration
- Maryborough and Boreham Streets accessibility improvements
- Ocean View Drive footbridge renewal in Woodgate
- Bargara Road, Bargara
- North Street, Childers
Funds have also been set aside to allow for minor disability access improvements to be undertaken as required.
Stormwater investment flows
Stage three of the Washpool Creek naturalisation is the headline for Council’s $5.1 million investment in its stormwater network.
Significant funds will also be invested in the stormwater underground network renewal program, ensuring infrastructure is appropriately maintained.
Drainage improvements will be undertaken in Brieschke Street, Elliott Heads.
Investment in waste and recycling
More than $10 million will be invested in waste and recycling as Council continues to meet high standards for its landfill and resource recovery practices.
A new dual weighbridge system and associated facility upgrades will be constructed at the Bundaberg Waste Management Facility on University Drive.
The major infrastructure upgrades, which are designed to improve traffic flow, are set to kick off this year.
Fresh investment in water supply
Upgrades and improvements are on tap for Council’s water network with a $13.9 million investment.
Project highlights include:
- Elliott Heads Growth Precinct water main
- Telegraph Road distribution main
- Branyan Water Treatment Plant upgrade
- Bulk filling station upgrades
- Finalisation of remaining elements to commission the Gin Gin to Wallaville pipeline for the Wallaville Water Treatment Plant
Wastewater
Upgrades which respond to the region’s growing population and need for increased housing feature in a $16.9 million investment in wastewater infrastructure.
This includes:
- Elliott Heads Growth Precinct rising sewer main
- Membrane replacement for Rubyanna Wastewater Treatment Plant
- Planning for the Childers Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrade
- Millbank sewerage inlet works upgrade
- Hartnell Street sewer pump station and rising main upgrade
Funds will also be invested in the sewer relining program for gravity and pressure mains.
Lifestyle
Lifestyle investment delivers connected, accessible and vibrant community spaces
New foreshore upgrades, improved pathways, digital inclusion programs and tourism-focused initiatives form part of Bundaberg Regional Council’s investment in enhancing lifestyle opportunities across the region through the 2026 – 2027 Budget.
This financial year, Council continues to focus on creating connected communities, improving accessibility and supporting programs and infrastructure that encourage residents and visitors to get out, get active and engage with the region.
Here’s just some of the lifestyle-focused initiatives being delivered through this year’s budget:
Moore Park Beach upgrades
Work will continue on delivering the final stages of the Moore Park Masterplan, with the last piece of foreshore landscaping near the old surf club building to be completed.
The works include:
- Large irrigated grassed open space for recreation and community use
- New footpaths to improve access and connectivity
- Designated vendor spaces with concrete slabs to support events and activations
The project will complete a key coastal precinct upgrade, enhancing both everyday liveability and visitor experience.
Destination event attraction budget
Council has allocated a dedicated destination event attraction fund to support large-scale events looking to host in the region.
The funding is designed to:
- Attract out-of-town events to Bundaberg
- Increase tourism visitation and local economic activity
- Create more lifestyle and entertainment opportunities for residents
- Strengthen the region’s reputation as a premier event destination
This investment aims to ensure the Bundaberg Region continues to benefit from high-quality events that locals can enjoy and participate in.
Introducing AI Literacy Hubs
Council will establish new AI Literacy Hubs through Bundaberg Regional Libraries to support digital inclusion and future-focused skills development.
The initiative includes:
- Support for over 50s through the Building Digital Skills Program
- Training residents aged 14 - 25 through the Young Mentors Scheme
Both programs will embed AI learning to build confidence in emerging technologies and support safe, responsible digital engagement.
The programs will offer one-on-one tech help sessions, fortnightly classes throughout the year and practical support for everyday digital challenges.
Council acknowledges the ongoing support of the Good Things Foundation as well as LinkedIn, Microsoft and Telstra in helping deliver these programs.
Safer and more accessible pathways and crossings
Pathways and pedestrian crossings will continue to be upgraded, renewed or expanded across the region as part of this year’s capital works program.
Work will include safety and accessibility upgrades, renewal of existing pathways and footbridges, and the construction of new pathways to better connect community spaces and recreation areas across more than 12 projects.
Community
Budget supports stronger, more connected communities
This financial year Bundaberg Regional Council will continue to back the organisations, spaces and programs that bring people together and ensure community facilities are accessible for all residents.
With more than $920,000 set aside for community grants, Council is also committing to accessibility upgrades to local halls and ongoing funding support for multicultural programs in the 2026 - 2027 Budget.
Here’s just some of the community-focused initiatives being delivered:
Continued community grants funding
Council will continue to invest in the community through its suite of grants programs, with more than $920,000 allocated in support during the 2026 - 2027 financial year.
Programs include:
- Micro Grants Program
- Sport Championship Grants Program
- Young People in Sport Program
- Community Services Program and other targeted community funding streams
This funding supports local clubs, organisations and individuals to deliver events, initiatives and activities that strengthen community connection, participation and wellbeing across the region.
Community halls investment
Upgrades will be delivered to improve accessibility and ensure community facilities are inclusive and welcoming for all residents.
Halls receiving disability compliance upgrades to amenities include:
- Woodgate Community Hall
- Elliott Heads Community Hall
- Waterloo Community Hall
Strengthening multicultural community programs
Council will continue to support multicultural engagement and inclusion through ongoing funding for the Connecting and Building Thriving Multicultural Communities program under the Strengthening Multicultural Queensland initiative.
This funding helps to:
- Support multicultural events and community-led activities
- Strengthen social connection and inclusion
- Encourage participation and belonging across the region and more
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