Shire of Carnarvon adopts 2024-25 budget where rate rise, airport upgrades confirmed

The Shire of Carnarvon has officially adopted its 2024-25 budget, confirming a 4.5 per cent increase in rates.

At council last month, the shire voted unanimously to adopt the budget, which included changes to rate differentials, and the capital works program.

Shire president Eddie Smith recently told the Midwest Times the rates increase was due to an increase in costs.

“The shire’s costs have all gone up, from construction costs to maintenance and utilities, but so have the living costs of our ratepayers, so we want to minimise the hit if we can,” he said.

“Council knows that we need to have some increase to be able to fund the service expectations of our community.

“We hope the community is understanding of this increase.”

According to the shire’s statement of financial activity, $6.99 million is set to be generated in rates revenue.

Meanwhile, a number of projects have been flagged for the 2024-25 financial year.

More than $20m has been flagged for investment in the town, with the Carnarvon Airport set to be one of the biggest beneficiaries.

A sum of $8m has been put aside to upgrade the airport, which according to the capital works program would allow it to accommodate for the “unrestricted operation of Q400 aircraft”.

The majority of the funding has been secured through a grants program.

Meanwhile, more than $1m has been put towards safety upgrades on Minilya Lyndon Road and French Street, as part of the State Government’s BlackSpot program.

Funding for the NorthWater Estate worker accommodation has also been included, where $1.366m has been put aside to complete the project.