SOUTHERN Grampians Shire Council (SGSC) have invited residents to contribute to the 2025/26 Council Budget and have put out the call for community budget submissions.

Residents can participate in the budget engagement process by filling out the online submission form by searching bit.ly/3Z5gSsD or completing a paper-based form available at the SGSC Customer Service Centre.

The engagement process will allow the 2025/26 Annual Budget to be considered by Council for adoption at the June 2025 Council meeting.

SGSC mayor, Dennis Heslin encouraged community members to get involved in the process to share what they felt was important to them and their families.

“Whether you’re a ratepayer or a regular user of council services, the budget and how Council prioritises its spending affects everyone,” said Cr Heslin.

“Last year we received 34 submissions from residents and a number of business cases from Council officers, resulting in budget allocation for a number of important community projects.

“Suggestions from last year that have since been included in our budget include installation of solar lighting around Lake Hamilton, stair replacement at Nigretta Falls, drainage and irrigation work for the Melville Oval playing surface, the purchase and renovation of Glenthompson School, replacement of Pedrina Park cricket nets, and improvements to the Hamilton-Coleraine Rail Trail.

“While there are no guarantees that submissions will be included in the budget, all will be considered and assessed against their alignment to our Council Plan.”

Submissions close Friday, January 10, 2025.

Council have also been running a short survey about the budget and long-term financial plan which can be filled out at bit.ly/4hYfRLE

Hard copy forms can be obtained from Council’s customer service centre at 111 Brown Street; enquiries can be directed to council@sthgrampians.vic.gov.au