The documents represent a strong and practical foundation for council’s future planning, translating community aspirations into clear actions and financial commitments.
The Delivery Program outlines council’s strategic direction across five key themes - communities, natural environments, built environments, economy, and leadership.
The Operational Plan and Budget detail the specific projects and services to be delivered in the next financial year.
It also sets rates and charges for the coming year, with council adopting the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal recommended rate peg of 4.6 per cent.
This means that the total revenue raised by rates increases by 4.6 per cent overall.
The total income is derived from individual rates in the residential, business and farmland categories, which may rise or fall this year depending on the value of your land. The 4.6 per cent cap does not apply to individual rates.
Each property pays a base or minimum rate amount, in addition to an ad valorem rate charged per dollar value of your land.
For example, a Deniliquin residential ratepayer with land valued at $119,000 - the average value for the Edward River region based on the last report from the NSW Valuer General - would be charged $1196 in ordinary rates.
This consists of a base rate of $504 and an additional $692 based on the 0.0058151 Deniliquin residential ad valorem rate.
Other fees and charges, including waste, water and sewerage are then added to your ordinary rates determine your total for the year.
These each increase by about 2.7 per cent this year, and charges vary depending on how your land is categorised.
For a Deniliquin residential property, the annual waste charge for 2025/2026 is $574, sewer access is $534 and water access is $440. Water usage is then charged at $1.20 per kilolitre up to 800kl, and $1.72 for very kilolitre over 800kl.
This equates to $2744 a year for the ratepayer with the land valued at $119,000, plus water usage.
The budget also sets out a capital renewal and upgrade program of just over $14.3 million.
Total revenue is projected at $39.7 million and total expenditure $36.5 million, resulting in an operating surplus of $3.2 million.
Mayor Ashley Hall expressed gratitude to the community for their involvement in the development of both plans.
“We sincerely thank all community members who took the time to review the draft documents and share their feedback during the exhibition period earlier this year,” he said.
“Your input has helped shape a robust and responsive plan for our region’s future.”
CEO Jack Bond said the adopted plans reflect extensive consultation, collaboration, and careful planning, and will serve as the guiding framework for all council activities through to 2029.
“With these plans now adopted, we have a clear and confident roadmap to guide our work,” Mr Bond said.
“We’re committed to delivering high-quality services and infrastructure while maintaining strong financial stewardship.”
Both documents can be viewed at www.edwardriver.nsw.gov.au/Council/Council-Publications.
For more information, contact council on 5898 3000.
