Kangaroo Island Council may have been among the last in the state to adopt its annual business plan and budget but it claims to also have among the lowest rate rises.

In what it says is a financially prudent budget for 2025-26, the council has limited its average general rate increase to j4%.

Mayor Michael Pengilly says the plan reflects a strong focus on delivering value for money while investing in services that matter most to the community.

“We know households are feeling the pinch, so we’ve kept our rate rise to a minimum,” he says. 

“This plan balances community priorities with responsible financial management, while continuing to deliver essential infrastructure and services across our Island.”

Key focus areas for 2025–2026 include:

• Road resheeting and bridge safety upgrades.
• CWMS pipe installation and road improvements at Karatta Terrace.
• Footpath repairs and beach car park fencing upgrades.
• Scheduled replacement of key machinery.
• Continued support for community services and visitor infrastructure.

The council continues to invest in essential services like waste collection, stormwater management, public toilets, planning, libraries, and cemetery operations, while seeking external grant funding and maintaining a responsible debt position.

The Annual Business Plan was formally endorsed at the ordinary council meeting on 28 July and is now available online.