Council
6 September, 2026
Strong financial position
MOYNE Shire Council has reported a stronger-than-forecast financial result for 2025-26, recording an operating surplus of $5.9 million.
The council delivered $24.5 million in capital works while continuing to invest in community services and infrastructure.
The surplus result was boosted by the early receipt of $9.9 million in Commonwealth Financial Assistance Grant funding for the 2026-27 financial year.
While the operating surplus reflects all income received during the year, including the early grant payment, council’s underlying financial performance also remained positive, with an underlying surplus of $3.40 million.
The underlying result removes capital-related items such as capital grants, capital contributions and asset disposals to provide a clearer picture of council’s day-to-day operating performance.
Mayor Cr Jordan Lockett said strong financial management allowed council to continue delivering services and investing in infrastructure.
“Strong financial management is about more than balancing the books. It gives council the capacity to plan for the future, respond to community needs and continue advocating for investment in Moyne Shire,” he said.
“During the year we delivered almost $25 million in capital works, maintained essential community services including early years, waste management, aged care and libraries, while investing in the facilities and infrastructure that make our towns stronger, more connected and more livable.
“By maintaining a sustainable financial position, we’re better placed to secure external funding and ensure local ratepayers receive the greatest possible return on every dollar council invests.”
Council’s cash and investment holdings totalled $22.9 million as at June 30, 2026, while capital expenditure reached $24.5 million, representing 88 per cent of the annual capital works program.
Several major projects will continue into the current financial year, including the Gipps Street Bridge (Port Fairy) replacement and the Koroit Township Renewal Project.
Cr Lockett said maintaining a strong financial position also strengthened council’s ability to advocate for funding and investment opportunities.
“Every dollar we attract from other levels of government helps deliver projects and services that would otherwise place greater pressure on local ratepayers,” he said.
“Our focus remains on making every dollar count, delivering community priorities and ensuring Moyne Shire is well positioned for the future.”
