Budget builds capacity to support Fraser Coast’s future
Published on 10 June 2026
- $543 million budget invests in essential services and infrastructure, including water, sewer, roads and community facilities.
- Budget balances supporting growth while keeping costs manageable for households.
- Major projects include the Fraser Coast Water Grid, Pulgul Creek Sewage Treatment Plant upgrade, Hervey Bay Airport terminal upgrade and City Hall refurbishment.
Fraser Coast Regional Council’s 2026/27 Budget focuses on building capacity to support the community now and into the future by locking in major investments in water security, wastewater infrastructure, economic development and community facilities.
Mayor George Seymour said the budget was about making sure the Fraser Coast remains a great place to live as the region continues to grow.
“The Fraser Coast is a region people want to call home, and with that comes increasing demand on the infrastructure and services our community relies on every day,” Cr Seymour said.
“This budget is about making sure we’re ready for that growth, investing in roads, water, sewerage and community facilities to maintain the lifestyle we all love and value.”
Council’s total budget for 2026/27 is $543 million, including $180 million in capital works.
The budget invests across a wide range of services and infrastructure including:
- $152m for water, waste and sewerage
- $206m for roads, bridges, footpaths and drainage
- $40m for economic development, tourism and major projects
- $38m for parks, pools and playgrounds
- $17m for arts and cultural facilities
Key capital works projects include:
- Redevelopment works at City Hall in Maryborough
- The Hervey Bay Airport terminal upgrade
- The Fraser Coast Water Grid
- The Pulgul Creek Sewage Treatment Plant upgrade
Cr Seymour said these long-term investments will benefit communities right across the Fraser Coast.
“The City Hall refurbishment is about improving how Council delivers services while supporting the ongoing revitalisation of the Maryborough CBD,” he said.
“The Hervey Bay Airport terminal upgrade is about increasing capacity to better support growing passenger numbers, improving comfort and functionality within the terminal.
“The Fraser Coast Water Grid is about securing water supply across the region, ensuring we can meet future demand while making the most of our available resources.
“Upgrades to the Pulgul Creek Sewage Treatment Plant are critical to maintaining safe and reliable wastewater services while meeting environmental obligations as our population grows.
“Council will continue advocating for financial support from the Australian and Queensland Governments for these significant projects to help reduce the cost impact on local ratepayers and support the timely delivery of infrastructure needed for growth and housing.”
Alongside these major projects, Council will deliver a wide range of local road upgrades, drainage works, park improvements and community projects across the Fraser Coast.
Cr Seymour said the budget had been developed in a challenging financial environment, with rising costs for fuel, materials and construction, alongside growing demand for services.
“We’ve worked hard to deliver a responsible budget that balances the need to invest in the future with the need to manage costs today,” he said.
“As part of this year’s budget, Council has included around $1 million in savings through what is known as an ‘efficiency dividend’, which involves reviewing processes to improve efficiency across Council.
“By continually improving how we work and focusing on what matters most, we can deliver the services and infrastructure our community expects in a way that remains affordable and financially sustainable.
“We’re making sure every dollar is working as hard as possible for our community.
“The general rates revenue increase, excluding growth from new properties, is 5.08 per cent.
“For most households, the change to the total rates bill – including general rates, levies and utility charges – will be between $3.62 and $7.49 a week.
“We will also continue to support local community groups and those doing it tough through grants and concessions valued at $8.92 million.
“Council is forecasting a $10.33 million deficit in 2026/27 as part of a deliberate approach to absorb some rising costs while charting a responsible path back to surplus in the coming years.”
Cr Seymour said Council remained focused on delivering essential services while planning for the long term.
“Every dollar we invest is about supporting our community—whether that’s maintaining local roads, providing reliable water and waste services, or building the infrastructure we’ll need in the years ahead,” he said.
More information is available at www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/budget