We are seeking your feedback on the Draft 2025/26 Business Plan and Budget.

The 2025/26 Business Plan and Budget is the key annual operational and financial planning document for the City of Adelaide. It describes the priorities, programs, services and projects that we plan to deliver, our sources of revenue, how we propose to allocate our budget, and commentary on our long-term financial sustainability.

This is the third Business Plan and Budget for this term of Council and continues to deliver on Council’s Strategic Plan 2024 - 2028. It focuses on investing through our Capital Works Program, continuing to commit our rates income to upgrading community Park Lands Buildings, implementing the Mainstreet Revitalisation Program, facilitating housing, stimulating growth in the city’s economy, focusing on core community services and leading Adelaide into a climate resilient future.

At its 29 April 2025 meeting, Council endorsed the Draft 2025/26 Business Plan and Budget for community consultation. 

Under the Local Government Act 1999 (SA) (the Act), the City of Adelaide is required to prepare an annual Business Plan and Budget. The Business Plan and Budget outlines the projects, services, and priorities for the upcoming financial year, and how they will be funded. It ensures transparency and accountability, helping our community understand what we plan to deliver and how we intend to fund it.  

Why do we have a Business Plan and Budget?

This Business Plan and Budget is the key annual operational and financial planning document of the City of Adelaide. It sets out the priorities, and services we plan to provide in the upcoming financial year, our sources of revenue, and how we propose to allocate our budget.

The Draft 2025/26 Business Plan and Budget ensures we continue to deliver efficient services that are valued by our community.

For more information about the Draft 2025/26 Business Plan and Budget, please see the following fact sheets:

How was the Draft 2025/26 Business Plan and Budget developed?

Our approach to planning for 2025/26 was based on:

• Council’s Strategic Plan 2024-2028, 2024/25 to 2033/34 Long Term Financial Plan, Asset Management Plans and other adopted Strategies and Plans
• Council Member priorities and community insights
• Community feedback from regular engagements
• Key challenges and opportunities arising from our operational environment
• Asset management, integrated planning and forward asset planning

What is the proposed rate increase?

Council is proposing a 5.6% rate revenue increase. This equates to an increase of $118 ($2.27 per week) for an average residential property, and an increase of $612 ($11.77 per week) for an average commercial property.

Council is also proposing the introduction of a minimum rate of $600 per year. This sets the lowest amount which will be charged for rates per year. The minimum rate affects any rateable property which would otherwise pay less than $600 in rates per year. The purpose of the minimum rate is to ensure that all ratepayers contribute towards the provision of basic services and maintaining infrastructure at a reasonable level.

How will my input be used?

Your feedback will be provided to Council and may inform their final decision when adopting the 2025/26 Business Plan and Budget.

What opportunities are there to speak to someone in person?

Staff will be available in the City of Adelaide Customer Centre (25 Pirie Street, Adelaide) by appointment, Monday to Friday during the consultation period to provide information and answer any questions you may have.

You can request a face-to-face meeting with one of our staff by emailing us at BusinessPlan@cityofadelaide.com.au or calling our Customer Centre on 08 8203 7203.

How can I speak at the Public Hearing?

If you would like to speak to your submission at the public hearing, please email: BusinessPlan@cityofadelaide.com.au