Council adopts budget focused on infrastructure, renewal
24th June 2026
Colac Otway Shire Council has adopted its 2026-27 Budget, delivering continued investment in essential infrastructure while navigating a challenging global and local economic environment.
Council CEO Andrew Tenni said the Budget reflects a balanced and considered approach that responds to community needs.
“The current global economic climate has created a challenging backdrop for this year’s budget. Despite this, Council remains focused on delivering essential services, investing in asset renewal and projects that are important to our community,” Mr Tenni said.
Key initiatives include:
- Allocation of $13 million to the Capital Works Program.
- Funds for maintenance and improvement of existing Council assets $11.74 million.
- Ongoing expansion of footpath networks across the municipality.
Early community engagement in December and January enabled Council to consider a range of local views and ideas from across the shire.
Council received 51 submissions across two consultation phases throughout the budget development process.
In response, almost $1.5 million has been dedicated to community raised initiatives including:
- Introduction of a new road sealing program targeting parts of the shire’s 1,000km of unsealed roads.
- Upgrades to the toilets at Irrewillipe Recreation Reserve.
- Drainage improvements.
- An emergency management trailer located in Apollo Bay.
- Additional park furniture in Memorial Square, Colac.
In addition, Council was successful in securing State Government funding for two significant projects; $580,000 for the Colac Bike Park and $461,000 for the Deans Creek Road and Pound Road intersection upgrade.
“These are key local projects which are great news for our community that we’re excited to deliver in 2026-27,” Mr Tenni said.
Council’s 2026-27 Budget includes an average rate rise of 2.75 per cent, in line with the State Government’s set rate cap.
Council Enquiries
(03) 5232 9400