Elected members formally adopted the City of Onkaparinga’s Annual Business Plan and Budget for 2025-26 on 1 July.

The $242.6 million budget includes a 2.2 per cent rate revenue increase, in line with the consumer price index and there will be no increase to community wastewater management system charges.

The council says the outcome reflects its commitment to limiting the financial impact on the community while continuing to deliver a broad range of valued services and community infrastructure.

Key priorities for the year include investment in roads, community spaces and traffic management.

Six major road renewal projects, valued at approximately $8.4 million, will be undertaken, along with the continued refurbishment of the Hopgood Theatre and renewal of the Noarlunga Aquatic Centre.

Coastal protection works include upgrades to the Christies Beach seawall, sand groyne and Port Noarlunga jetty. The final stage of the Witton Bluff Base Trail at Christies Beach will also be completed.

This year will see the return of the grants program, with more than $700,000 in funding available and a refreshed structure to better support local groups and initiatives.

Mayor Moira Were says Onkaparinga’s budget lays a solid foundation for long-term financial stability while remaining responsive to community needs and aspirations.

“We heard clearly that residents want the council to be responsible with spending, limit rate rises and focus on maintaining what we have – and this budget delivers on that,” she says.

“We’re pleased to again maintain an operating surplus, while keeping rate increases modest and aligned with cost-of-living expectations.”

“This year’s budget reflects the hard work of previous years and delivers a sustainable, responsible financial plan that supports our community today and into the future.”

For more information and to view the full Annual Business Plan and Budget 2025–26, visit the council website or call 8384 0666.