Hinchinbrook Shire Council has adopted its 2025–2026 Budget, shaped by the realities of recovery and the need to build stronger foundations for the future.
The $55.1 million Budget, handed down at Lannercost Street in Ingham, prioritises rebuilding critical infrastructure, renewing core services, and investing in the capacity to deliver for the Hinchinbrook community, both now and in years to come.
Mayor Ramon Jayo said Council is very aware that residents and businesses are doing it tough right now, and that’s been front of mind throughout the process.
“The reality is — costs are rising, infrastructure is ageing, and the pressure on councils is increasing. But we’re stepping up,” Mayor Jayo said.
“We’ve worked hard to keep rates affordable while still delivering what’s needed — from roads and drainage to parks, waste services, and disaster response.”
The overall increase in Council’s rates, charges and utility revenue will be 4.79%. On average, it’s about a $4.10 rise per week across general rates and utility charges combined. For around 79% of residential ratepayers, the general rates part of that works out to about $1.32 extra a week.
To ease cost-of-living pressure, Council is offering:
· $323,000 in rates discounts for not-for-profit organisations
· Continuation of the 20% pensioner rebate (up to $200), alongside the State Government concession
· A 10% rates cap for residential and farming properties
The Budget also includes a $7.4 million Capital Works Program featuring 50 projects, including $1.5 million in joint funding from the Australian and Queensland Governments.
Council is also renewing its fleet and plant, including equipment for open space maintenance, road and drainage works, and essential machinery and vehicles that enable more reliable service delivery across the region.
“The February flood event was a stark reminder that we must build resilience,, not just recover, but be better prepared for what comes next,” Mayor Jayo said.
“Much of our infrastructure is aged and in urgent need of attention. This Budget is honest about those realities — and focused on practical, long-term solutions.”
Visit hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/our-council/corporate-publications-and-reports for more information.
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes. Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Life Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Life Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Life Publishing Group Ltd.
.jpg)
