BRISBANE City Council’s 2025-26 Budget is being pitched as a win for both household finances and local infrastructure, with Bayside residents set to benefit from targeted upgrades and what the Lord Mayor says are the lowest council rates in South East Queensland.
With a $4.1 billion spend outlined, the Budget reflects a stated priority on balancing affordability with investment in the city’s growth.
While general rates for owner-occupied homes will rise by $1.14 a week – a 3.87 per cent annual increase –Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner pointed to the relative position of Brisbane’s rates compared to other councils, some of which he says will charge residents hundreds more each year.
“This is a balanced and responsible Budget that ensures Brisbane rates are the lowest in South East Queensland while still delivering the infrastructure and services a fast-growing city needs,” he said.
“We’re striking the right balance between keeping costs down and keeping Brisbane moving.”
For Bayside residents, the Budget brings a range of projects aimed at upgrading transport links, enhancing public spaces, and maintaining local infrastructure.
Among the road upgrades are works planned for Cambridge Pde and Melville Tce in Wynnum, as well as the key intersection of Wynnum Rd and Hemmant-Tingalpa Rd.
Footpath, bikeway, and pedestrian upgrades are scheduled across suburbs including Manly, Chandler and Tingalpa.
Safety improvements, delivered in partnership with the Federal Government, are planned for Tilley Rd in Gumdale, while several parks and bushland areas will see enhancements, including Elanora Park and Wynnum Wading Pool Park.
Routine asset maintenance will also continue, with work to include playground and toilet block upgrades, new picnic facilities, carparks, and a pedestrian bridge at Drevesen Park in Manly.
Councillor Alex Givney welcomed the Budget’s local focus, saying it would enhance the quality of life for Bayside communities.
“Great parks, safer roads and connected bikeways – these are all part of what makes the Bayside an incredible place to live, work and relax and now we are making them even better,” she said.
Councillor Lisa Atwood underscored the importance of infrastructure to families.
“I know residents will be particularly excited to see upgrades coming to the Wynnum Rd and Hemmant-Tingalpa Rd intersection so that they can get where they need to sooner and safer,” she said.
Unlike other local councils, Brisbane has opted not to introduce a new levy in response to Cyclone Alfred.
Financially, the Council is forecasting a 21 per cent drop in net debt by 2028-29, down from $3.7 billion to $2.9 billion.
