Maribyrnong City Council aims to deliver a responsible and balanced budget that maintains excellence in service delivery, provides a strong capital program and is responsive to the growing needs of our community.

The Budget has been developed in line with Council’s Long Term Financial Strategy and the Council Plan 2017-21 to ensure a sustainable future.

The Proposed Annual Budget 2020-21 of $149.7 million includes a robust capital program valued at $52.241 million.

The budget will also provide significant support to residents and businesses affected by COVID-19, giving much needed relief during this difficult time.

A COVID-19 Relief Package of $4.1 million

The Annual Budget 2020-21 responds to the needs of local residents and businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, and includes $4.1 million in support packages across a range of programs and initiatives.

• A COVID-19 Financial Hardship Policy has been developed to assist those who have been financially impacted by the pandemic. Ratepayers experiencing financial hardship can apply for an interest free payment plan or to defer their rates without penalty interest for a period up until 30 June 2021.
• We have deferred the quarterly rate payments (May and September) for eligible businesses and residents.
• From September 2020 Council will be allocating a total of $1.9 million to eligible ratepayers (owner/occupiers) struggling financially with impact of COVID-19 in the form of a rate rebate. This equates to the 2% rate increase that Council is proposing to take up in line with the rate cap set by the Government.
• For eligible businesses, the May quarterly payment was discounted by 50 per cent.
• Commercial tenants of Council owned properties affected by COVID-19 received a 50 per cent discount on rent up until June 2020.
• A range of planning application fees for small businesses starting up before 30 September 2020 are being waived.
• Not-for-profit community rental payments have been waived for impacted organisations until 30 September 2020.
• Kinder central enrolment fees have been waived until the end of 2020.
• Pet registration fees are also being waived/reimbursed for affected residents.
• A number of initiatives have been introduced to support the local arts community, including grants (upon application) for not-for-profit community arts organisations and Maribyrnong based arts practitioners, along with rental subsidies.
• Not-for-profit community sporting clubs are being supported with all lease, licence and ground fees being waived until 31 December 2020, and utility and water fees being waived until 30 September 2020.

The proposed budget is now on exhibition for community feedback and you are invited to have your say.

Find out more about the proposed Budget, review the budget documents and have your say here:

https://www.yourcityyourvoice.com.au/budget-2020-21