Have your say on the draft 2026/27 Annual Business Plan and Budget
The draft plan sets out how Council will invest in services, infrastructure and major projects over the coming year, while maintaining a strong focus on financial sustainability as Victor Harbor prepares for significant growth in the decades ahead.
The proposed budget includes $13.9 million in net capital expenditure, and a $42.8 million operating budget with a forecast deficit of $1.9 million. Putting forward a deficit budget has been considered carefully and aligns with Council’s Long Term Financial Plan, which sets out a clear path back to surpluses in future years.
The draft budget also proposes an average rates increase of 6.4%, made up of the March 2026 Quarter CPI of 4.9% plus a 1.5% financial sustainability index. For the average residential property, this represents an increase of approximately $193 per year, or around $3.70 per week.
City of Victor Harbor’s Chief Executive Officer, Victoria MacKirdy reinforced the strategic nature of the draft 2026/27 Annual Business Plan and Budget.
"Victor Harbor is on the cusp of significant growth and change, and the decisions Council makes now will shape the future of our city," said Ms MacKirdy.
"This year's plan reflects a long-term focus and a commitment to responsible financial management. We know many in our community are feeling cost-of-living pressures, and that has remained front of mind for Council throughout the budget process.”
“The proposed rate increase is about making sure Council can continue to deliver essential services, maintain community assets and plan responsibly for the future. It reflects a future-focused approach that helps Council navigate the challenges that come with preparing for growth while avoiding larger and more difficult increases later, supporting the best long-term outcome for the community.”
Key initiatives included within the draft 2026/27Annual Business Plan include continuing strategic growth planning, corporate systems optimisation, the upgrade of Whalers Road, transition of the Encounter Community Centre to Council management, lighting and AV upgrades for the Town Hall and Cinema, ongoing partnership with Business Victor Harbor, establishment of a community garden and nursery, Inman River coastal and flood protection works, delivery of a $520,000 footpath program, completion of an integrated transport study, and facilitation of the 2026 Council elections.
Planning will also continue for the Regional Community, Sport and Recreation Precinct project, with Council working towards finalising the agreement for lease and construction arrangements. Council has made the deliberate decision to defer its $11.7 million construction contribution, along with the associated remaining rate increase increments, to future years to help spread costs over time for ratepayers.
Ms MacKirdy encouraged residents and ratepayers to read the draft plan and share their views.
"Community consultation is an important part of Council's decision-making. We want to hear what the community’s thinks about the projects, programs and services planned for the year ahead, so please take the opportunity to have your say."
Have Your Say
Council is seeking feedback between Tuesday, 9 June and Wednesday, 1 July 2026.
The draft plan is available on the Your Say Victor Harbor website or as a hard copy at the City of Victor Harbor Civic Centre, 1 Bay Road, Victor Harbor, during business hours.
Feedback can be provided by:
- Completing the online form at Your Say Victor Harbor
- Making a written submission and returning it by:
- Email to localgov@victor.sa.gov.au
- Post to the City of Victor Harbor, PO Box 11, Victor Harbor SA 5211
- In person at the Civic Centre, 1 Bay Road, Victor Harbor
All feedback must be received by 5pm on Wednesday, 1 July 2026.
Community members are also invited to attend a public meeting to share their comments directly with Council Members on Tuesday, 30 June 2026 at 5.30pm at the City of Victor Harbor Civic Centre, 1 Bay Road, Victor Harbor.
For further information, please contact Council on (08) 8551 0500 or localgov@victor.sa.gov.au.