Kiama Council considers rate hike to balance budget

Kiama Council has developed a Draft Revenue Improvement Strategy to address financial sustainability and comply with a Performance Improvement Order (PIO) issued by the NSW Government. The state government has mandated that the council present a balanced budget for the upcoming year.

One primary option under consideration is a 20 per cent rate hike, which would require approval from the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal. Other potential revenue-generating measures include implementing paid parking for non-residents, reviewing fees and charges, property optimisation, and evaluating the future of council catalyst sites.

Council CEO Jane Frawley noted that while financial sustainability challenges affect the entire local government sector, Kiama’s issues are more acute and must be resolved under the PIO by 2027-28. The draft strategy will be placed on public exhibition for 28 days starting next Friday to allow for community feedback.