Ipswich City Council has handed down a $678 million budget for 2025–26, promising a future-focused, fiscally responsible plan that delivers critical infrastructure, community services, and environmental care.
Mayor Teresa Harding said the unanimously supported budget struck a balance between managing cost-of-living pressures and delivering for the fastest growing city in Queensland.
“This is a budget that supports households while setting us up for the next 20 years,” Mayor Harding said.
“We’ve found $4.5 million in savings, we’re delivering an $8 million surplus, and we’re pushing hard on roads, sporting facilities and suburban upgrades.”
💸 Rates & Concessions
The average general rate increase is 4.98%, slightly lower than last year’s 5.45%, translating to $3.78 per week per household.
Council has retained key concessions, including:
- $132 annual discount for early payments
- $258 concession for full pensioners
- $127 concession for part pensioners
- Tip fees remain discounted for pensioners
🚧 Infrastructure Highlights
The budget includes $165 million for capital works, with more than 80% of that spend directed to the suburbs, not just the city centre.
Major projects include:
- $18.3 million for sealed road rehabilitation – a priority after months of heavy rain and pothole issues
- Upgrades to Ripley and Fischer Roads, School Road (Redbank Plains), and Springfield Parkway
- $7.3 million to replace the Purga School Road Bridge
- Ongoing works in Adelong Avenue (Thagoona) and Tivoli Sporting Complex
🏟️ Community & Sport
Council is investing in both recreation and social infrastructure, with:
- $4.6 million toward the North Ipswich Sport and Entertainment Precinct
- $24 million into sporting and community facilities
- $15 million for the city’s five libraries and Orion Lagoon
- Continued support for swim centres and library programs
“Especially in a cost-of-living crisis, access to free and low-cost family activities is vital,” the Mayor said.
🌱 Environment & Conservation
Environmental sustainability remains a priority, with:
- $24.6 million for environment and sustainability programs
- Urban Rivers Investment Program continuing with on-ground works at Pine Pot Creek and Warrill Creek
- Enhancements to Ipswich Nature Centre, the region’s only council-run zoo
🏛️ A Word on Advocacy
Mayor Harding again called out state and federal funding shortfalls, noting Ipswich receives the second-lowest per capita road funding in SEQ.
“Infrastructure charges haven’t changed since 2011, but costs have increased 44%. We’re still playing catch-up,” she said.
“We’ll continue lobbying hard to get our fair share.”
📊 Summary:
- Budget Total: $678 million
- Surplus: $8 million
- Rate Rise: 4.98% average
- Capital Works: $165 million (rising to $200 million next year)
- Focus Areas: Roads, libraries, sports facilities, environment, waste, and suburban growth
For more details or to access the full Annual Plan and Budget, visit: www.ipswich.qld.gov.au/budget
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