Diamantina Shire Council Projects a Bright Financial Future with a Surplus in the 2024/2025 Budget
Bedourie, Queensland
The Diamantina Shire Council is thrilled to announce a forecasted operating surplus of $305,527 for the 2024/2025 fiscal year. This marks a historic achievement for the Council, showcasing a strong commitment to responsible fiscal management and strategic community growth.
In the face of rising costs and the ongoing challenge to do more with less, the Council has implemented a moderate rate increase of 3.5%. This decision, made with careful consideration of the current cost of living, is essential to maintain and enhance the vital infrastructure that supports our vibrant community. To alleviate the impact on residents, the Council will continue to offer a 15% discount on general rates paid before the due date.
The 2024/2025 budget is bolstered by significant external funding, including DTMR Roadworks, flood restoration works, and Works For Queensland funding, underscoring the importance of such support for the Shire's development.
Recent months have seen the implementation of a Financial Turnaround Strategy, a robust plan aimed at securing the Shire's financial stability and promoting long-term sustainability. The resulting operating surplus is a direct outcome of this strategy, reflecting the diligent efforts of both the Council and staff.
The budget also highlights a $13.8 million capital program, with the Birdsville Cooling Pond project as its centrepiece. This $4 million initiative, partially funded in collaboration with State and Federal Governments, is set to provide reliable, high-quality, and safe drinking water for the Birdsville community, now and into the future.
Road infrastructure remains a top priority, with substantial investments allocated to:
- RMPC: $5,693,700
- Roads to Recovery: $800,000
- Rural roads maintenance and gravel pits operations: $2,894,000
- TIDS: $300,000
- Shire road flood damage: $7,044,269
These strategic investments in roads, water, and community services are designed to significantly improve the quality of life for our residents and visitors, while also driving economic growth.
Mayor Francis Murray expressed optimism about the budget, stating, "This surplus is not just a number—it's a symbol of our resilience and determination to ensure the prosperity of Diamantina Shire. It represents the hard work and dedication of our council and staff, and it's a clear indicator that our we are setting a strong foundation for the future, and I am confident that our community will continue to thrive."
The Diamantina Shire Council extends its gratitude to the community for their trust and active participation in shaping the future of our Shire. We are dedicated to maintaining transparency and fiscal responsibility as we implement this forward-looking budget.
We eagerly anticipate working alongside council members and the community to realise our collective vision for a thriving and prosperous Diamantina Shire.
For more information please contact:
Jason Beaton
Chief Operating Officer
Diamantina Shire Council
Jason.beaton@diamantina.qld.gov.au
0467 843 928