Draft Operational Plan and Budget on public display
Published on 29 April 2026
Uralla Shire Council has endorsed its Draft Operational Plan and Budget for 2026–2027 for public exhibition, inviting residents, businesses and stakeholders to review the documents and provide feedback.
The Draft Operational Plan outlines Council’s proposed services, infrastructure projects and financial approach for the coming year, and reflects community aspirations, organisational priorities and emerging opportunities across the Shire.
Mayor Robert Bell said the 2026–27 Budget was a carefully considered, “no‑frills” budget that focuses on protecting essential services and maintaining the assets the community relies on, while responding to increasing financial pressures faced by regional councils.
“This year’s Budget has been designed to safeguard core services and ensure we can continue to look after our roads, water and sewer networks, community facilities and public spaces,” Mayor Bell said.
“The Plan reinforces Council’s commitment to delivering safe, reliable and high‑quality services, while supporting community wellbeing, sustainable growth and strong civic leadership.”
Community care, aged care and library services will remain accessible and community focused, with continued support for First Nations Elders, expanded community programs and renewed emphasis on volunteer engagement.
Mayor Bell said inclusion and community connection remain central priorities for Council.
“We are committed to ensuring our services are responsive and inclusive, and that we continue to support cultural participation, lifelong learning and volunteering across the Shire,” he said.
Key infrastructure and environmental priorities include ongoing maintenance of roads, parks, sporting facilities, caravan parks and cemeteries, along with essential upgrades to water, sewer and stormwater networks. Environmental initiatives such as creek rehabilitation, stormwater improvements, strengthened biosecurity and circular‑economy projects will help protect the natural environment that defines the Uralla Shire.
The Draft Plan also supports local economic development through tourism promotion, strategic land‑use planning, renewable energy engagement and advocacy, and initiatives to encourage business and industrial development. Investment in cyber security, organisational capability and transparent governance - including live streaming of Council meetings - further supports Council’s commitment to accountability and future‑focused leadership.
The Draft Budget assumes approval of Council’s proposed Special Rate Variation (SRV) by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART). The SRV proposes a 28.5 per cent increase to Ordinary Rates in 2026–27, applying only to the general rate and not to water, sewer, waste or stormwater charges.
Mayor Bell acknowledged the impact of rising costs and the challenges this presents for councils and communities.
“This was not an easy decision, but it is necessary to help maintain financial sustainability and ensure we can continue delivering the services, maintenance and infrastructure our community expects,” he said.
As the rate increase may have a greater impact on the farming community, Council is proposing the introduction of a new rating sub‑category under the Business category, titled Energy Generation, applying to rural land controlled by companies operating within the renewable energy industry.
The second stage of the approved permanent Special Rate Variation - an increase of 22 per cent - would come into effect on 1 July 2027.
Public submissions will be accepted until close of business on 29 May 2026, with all feedback reported back to Council prior to final adoption of the Operational Plan, Budget, Revenue Statement and Fees and Charges for 2026–2027.
The Draft Operational Plan is available on Council’s website, at the Customer Service Centre adjacent to Council Chambers, Uralla Library and Bundarra Store.
“We strongly encourage our community to review the Draft Plan and have their say,” Mayor Bell said.
“Your feedback is essential in shaping a plan that reflects our shared priorities and supports a strong and sustainable future for Uralla Shire.”
Submissions can be made via Council’s Have Your Say website at yoursay.uralla.nsw.gov.au/delivering-services-and-infrastructure, by email to council@uralla.nsw.gov.au, or by mail to The General Manager, Uralla Shire Council, PO Box 106, Uralla NSW 2358.