Annual Business Plan and Budget
The Annual Business Plan and Budget shows how Council will allocate its budget and what services, programs and projects will be developed in the coming financial year to contribute to achieving the community’s long term objectives.
The Annual Business Plan outlines Council’s priorities for the year ahead and includes the budget and rating policy. It links to our Community Plan 2030, Long Term Financial Plan and Asset Management Plans, and outlines how we intend to measure our performance.
Developing our budget each year involves an extensive process and our aim is to ensure that the mix of services and capital works meets the needs of residents, businesses and visitors to our Council area. As a part of the Annual Business Plan and budgeting process, the community has the opportunity to provide feedback.
2026/27 Annual Business Plan and Budget
The City of Victor Harbor’s 2026/27 Annual Business Plan and Budget was adopted at a Special Council Meeting held 13 July 2026.
The 2026/27 Annual Business Plan and Budget sets a clear direction for the year ahead as the city prepares for significant growth and change.
The adopted budget includes a $43 million operating budget and a $14 million net capital works program, balancing the delivery of essential services and infrastructure with strategic investment in Victor Harbor's future and long-term financial sustainability.
Key initiatives include progressing the Regional Community, Sport and Recreation Precinct toward construction readiness, finalising the South Coast Future Ready Strategy, advancing growth planning initiatives, continuing Council’s corporate systems optimisation program, completing the Whalers Road reconstruction project and progressing the development of a future community garden and native plant nursery.
Average rates payable will increase by 6.4%, comprising a 4.9% increase reflecting Adelaide CPI and a 1.5% Financial Sustainability Index. For the average residential ratepayer this equates to approximately $180 per year.
City of Victor Harbor Mayor, Dr Moira Jenkins, said the budget had been developed with a strong focus on balancing current community needs with the responsibility of planning for the future.
"Victor Harbor is entering a period of significant growth and change, and it is important that Council plans responsibly to ensure our community continues to thrive while protecting the character, lifestyle and environment that people value so highly," said Dr Jenkins.
"This budget maintains essential services, invests in critical infrastructure and supports strategic initiatives that will help guide how our city grows in the decades ahead."
"We know many households and businesses continue to experience cost-of-living pressures and that has been front of mind throughout our planning. Council has adopted a disciplined approach that balances community priorities, affordability and long-term financial sustainability."
Council acknowledged the valuable feedback received during the public consultation period, with responses highlighting the importance of maintaining essential services, investing in infrastructure and carefully managing the impact of rates on households and businesses.
City of Victor Harbor Chief Executive Officer, Victoria MacKirdy, said the budget positions Council to manage growth while continuing to deliver essential services and infrastructure for the community.
"This budget is about ensuring Victor Harbor is well prepared for the opportunities and challenges that come with growth," said Ms MacKirdy.
"Through strategic planning initiatives such as the Urban Growth Management Strategy 2050, South Coast Future Ready Strategy and Local Area Plan, Council is taking a proactive approach to managing growth while continuing to invest in the services and infrastructure our community relies on."
View the 2026/27 Annual Business Plan
View the 2026/27 Annual Business Plan and Budget Summary
View the draft 2026/27 Annual Business Plan and Budget Community Engagement Summary
Related links:
Finance Documents