A budget that continues to deliver the services the Bunbury community expects while investing in the city’s future has been adopted by Bunbury City Council.
Published 30 July 2025, updated 31 July 2025
The $100 million Annual Budget 2025-26 was endorsed on 29 July 2025, and reflects the City’s commitment to long-term planning, financial responsibility and community priorities.
Key features of the budget include major investments in sport and recreation, environmental sustainability, arts and culture, and infrastructure renewal. These projects are guided by the City’s Strategic Community Plan and informed by community feedback, particularly through insights gathered in the recent community scorecard.
Highlights of the 2025-26 Annual Budget include:
- $4.8 million for the Hay Park indoor courts redevelopment.
- $3.2 million for additional infrastructure upgrades at Hands Oval.
- $1.1 million for the Boulters Heights redevelopment.
- $500,000 for Bicentennial Square revitalisation.
- $240,000 to implement the Greening Bunbury Plan.
- $470,000 for coastal hazard adaptation.
- $706,000 to replace playground equipment.
- $711,000 to renew the PCYC building.
- $5.3 million for road upgrades and renewals.
Bunbury Mayor Jaysen Miguel said the budget continued to build on the momentum seen across the city.
“From major infrastructure upgrades to cultural and environmental initiatives, Bunbury is thriving, and the results of our collective investment are becoming more visible every day,” Mayor Miguel said.
Events across 2025, like the AFL and Matildas matches at the newly redeveloped Hands Memorial Oval, have shown just how powerful these projects can be – not only in attracting national and international attention, but in bringing our community together and showcasing Bunbury as a destination for sport, culture and connection.
The budget includes $23.6 million in capital works, $73.8 million in operating expenditure, and $2.6 million for debt reduction. It is supported by a 6.5 per cent rate yield increase, underpinned by the previously endorsed differential rate system which ensures fairness and equity across residential, commercial, and industrial properties.
“We know many in our community continue to feel the pressure of rising costs and we understand the pressures many households are facing. We’ve worked hard to balance affordability with the need to maintain and improve essential services,” Mayor Miguel said.
While property rates remain a key funding source, the City also relies on State and Federal government grants, reserve funds and loan borrowings.
The Council also endorsed its updated Corporate Business Plan, Workforce Plan, and Long-Term Financial Plan, ensuring a coordinated and sustainable approach to service delivery.
View the City of Bunbury 2025-26 Annual Budget on the City Corporate Plans page below.
