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At its June Ordinary Meeting, Buloke Shire Council adopted the Annual Budget 2026–2027, outlining a responsible and sustainable financial plan aligned with Council Plan 2025–2029.
Built on the principle of cash neutrality, the budget balances community expectations with the realities facing rural local government while providing a clear roadmap for service delivery, asset management and community investment over the next four years.
Mayor Cr Graeme Milne said the budget had been developed amid ongoing recovery from multiple emergency events and the significant financial burden associated with restoring flood-damaged roads. He reinforced Council’s commitment to advocating for flood recovery funding.
“Since the October 2022 floods, Buloke Shire has been recovering from five separate disaster events,” he said.
“Our staff have worked tirelessly to advocate for fair and reasonable funding that reflects the scale of damage sustained across our road network and community assets.
“We will continue to advocate strongly, but our patience and our community’s resilience cannot be taken for granted,” he said.
Cr Bernadette Hogan reiterated that the budget reflected Council’s commitment to responsible financial management while continuing to deliver for the community.
Councillors also highlighted key challenges including waste management reform, community safety initiatives, the future planning of Charlton Hall and the financial pressures facing rural councils due to ongoing cost shifting from other levels of government.
Council also welcomed the attendance of a young 9-year-old community member who interviewed the Mayor and Deputy Mayor following the meeting about the budget and Council decision-making.
Cr Milne said it was encouraging to see younger generations taking an interest in local government and the decisions that will shape their future.
“The questions asked demonstrated genuine curiosity about how Council operates and highlighted the importance of transparency, collaboration and ensuring future generations have a voice in the decisions we make today,” he said.
"One of the most rewarding parts of local government is seeing members of our community, particularly young people, take an interest in the decisions that shape their future," Cr Milne said.
Council thanked community members who participated in the Annual Budget Survey and consultation process, as well as staff who contributed to the development of the budget.
The Annual Budget 2026–2027 is available on Council’s website at www.buloke.vic.gov.au/budgets and in hard copy from the Wycheproof Shire Office.
Other highlights from the July meeting included:
Awarding the 2025–2026 External Plant Hire Panel Contract to support efficient delivery of infrastructure and maintenance programs.
Approving a planning permit for a two-lot subdivision and rural dwelling excision at Ninda, supporting continued rural residency opportunities while protecting surrounding agricultural land.
Endorsing the latest Municipal Monitor Implementation Plan update for submission to the Minister for Local Government.
Approving Sustainability Grant funding for projects in Birchip, Culgoa and Charlton, supporting energy efficiency, community facility improvements and environmental sustainability outcomes.
Supporting advocacy for the return of passenger rail services to the Mallee through a proposed Mildura–Maryborough passenger rail connection to Melbourne.
Council also responded to a public question regarding proposed data centres within Buloke Shire. Council advised that it is not aware of any proposed or planned data centre developments within the municipality at this time. Council also confirmed that no information regarding data centre proposals has been provided by VicGrid.
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