In her weekly appearance on West Bremer Radio, Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding offered a preview of the upcoming 2025–26 Ipswich City Council Budget, confirming that it will include a new infrastructure levy to help fund critical upgrades across the city.
The budget will be officially handed down on Tuesday, June 25, with final preparations now underway. Mayor Harding explained that the $55 annual levy, which will apply to 99% of ratepayers, is expected to raise $5.4 million to address Ipswich’s growing infrastructure needs.
“Even though we’re the fastest-growing city in Queensland, we’re receiving the second lowest amount per capita in the southeast when it comes to state road funding,” Mayor Harding said.
The levy comes in response to what the mayor described as a “massive shortfall in funding” from both the federal and Queensland governments. Ipswich is currently welcoming 22 new residents every day, with 56 homes built each week, putting pressure on roads, public transport, and essential services.
Despite recent advocacy, federal infrastructure grants have shrunk, and the state’s investment in local roads has not kept pace with growth. “Without urgent intervention, the burden unfairly shifts to Ipswich ratepayers,” Harding warned.
🎆 Spark Ipswich Set to Illuminate the City
Mayor Harding also turned to brighter news—confirming the return of the much-loved Spark Ipswich Festival, running 11–20 July. Now in its fifth year, the event features over 50 events including live music, light installations, children’s activities, and multicultural showcases.
“The city will transform into a canvas of colour and light,” Harding said, noting highlights like the ‘Delight’ light show on Nicholas Street, the Little Day Out festival in Ripley, and WOMI, the popular world music celebration.
This year’s program will also celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Ipswich Civic Centre, with a special production honouring the venue’s contribution to local arts and performance.
🌸 Honouring a Life Lost: Vyleen White Memorial Unveiled
Over the weekend, the community gathered at Colleges Crossing to unveil a special memorial bench in honour of Vyleen White, who tragically lost her life in a public attack in 2023.
“It’s a place to reflect and heal,” Harding said. “The White family has turned their unimaginable loss into a powerful call for change.”
Funded by the Queensland Government, the memorial includes a white bench, floral vines, and wheelchair-accessible pathways, offering a peaceful space beside the river for the public to remember and reflect.
The mayor will return to West Bremer Radio next week on budget day, when the full details of the council’s 2025–26 financial plan will be released.
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