City of Wanneroo adopts 2024-25 budget with 3 per cent rate increase and removal of payment instalment fees

The City of Wanneroo has approved a 3 per cent increase in rates as part of its 2024-2025 budget but has also removed fees on rates paid in instalments. The council voted 11-2 at Tuesday’s council meeting to adopt the annual budget and a three-year corporate business plan, with a 3 per cent differential rate increase resulting in a rise of about $40 for most homeowners compared to last year. The rate increase is in line with neighbouring cities Joondalup and Stirling’s rate increases of 2.9 and 2.95 per cent respectively. It is lower than the previous financial year’s increase of 3.75 per cent. Elected members also narrowly voted 7-6 in favour of an amendment from Cr Jordan Wright to remove interest fees and administrative charges on payments made in instalments. The amendment provides relief for families and residents who opt to pay in instalments, removing a rate arrangement fee of $30 and a $5 rate instalment fee for each instalment, and changing the instalment interest charge from 3 per cent to zero. While the fee removals provides some relief and flexibility for households, it will cost the city about $896,000, which was already budgeted. Wanneroo director of corporate strategy and performance Noelene Jennings said the loss of this funding would likely affect how many new staff are hired — with the budget originally pursuing 30 new City of Wanneroo staff. “This fee being abolished, $896,330, it’s not a small amount of money,” Cr Glynis Parker said. “We have sat for hours, the administration has spent hundreds of hours getting to this point. I have no problem looking at this for the future, but for now, tonight, to turn around at this late stage and take $896,000 out of this budget without having a discussion — I cannot conceivably still make a responsible decision.” Crs Marizane Moore and Phil Bedworth voted against the budget, with Cr Moore opposing a rate increase. “Young families, established families and those later in life on fixed incomes are feeling their pressures immensely no matter their income,” Cr Moore said. “For the past 18 months Wanneroo residents have known one thing, now more than ever, that costs matter. They’re having to choose which bills to pay this month and which ones to defer. “This proposed increase in rates does not, I believe, accurately reflect the community’s needs right now, especially for this financial year ahead. In good conscience I cannot support the budget tonight.” Mayor Linda Aitken said the council and city had delivered a budget that considered cost-of-living pressures impacting the community. “In recognition of the current economic climate, this budget prioritises responsible spending while still investing in the needs of our growing community,” she said. “It directly addresses the priorities outlined in the city’s Strategic Community Plan, ensuring we deliver the essential services, infrastructure and amenities our residents have told us they want. “Rates account for 67 per cent of the city’s operating income and we actively partner with other levels of Government and stakeholders throughout the year to secure funding for strategic projects, ensuring the responsible collection and use of ratepayer dollars and directing resources where they will have the greatest impact for our residents.” Deputy mayor James Rowe described the budget as “responsible” and “equitable” by including funding for some of the city’s older suburbs. “I think this budget is a step in the right direction. It’s a clear endorsement in the view that your postcode should not affect the quality of the facilities and services that you enjoy,” he said. 2024-25 City of Wanneroo budget highlights Over the next 12 months, the city will spend $12.5 million to maintain sporting facilities, pitches, fields and grounds. This includes $5 million to upgrade the netball courts at Kingsway Regional Sporting Complex and complete works on floodlighting and the sports amenities building at Heath Park in Eglinton. An $875,000 investment will see Montrose Park tennis courts in Girrawheen receive a revamp, including court resurfacing and new LED lighting and fencing. Work will continue on the Alkimos aquatic and recreation centre project, with $4.7 million to fund the detailed design and the start of construction later this year. BMX enthusiasts will benefit from a $685,000 upgrade to the pump track at McCoy Park in Quinns Rocks. The city will spend a total of $51.5 million to maintain, protect and enhance parks, coastlines, reserves, streetscapes and conservation areas. There will be $1.5 million spent to support upgrades to parks and playgrounds across the city, including the city’s first all-abilities playground at Riverlinks Park in Clarkson. The city has allocated $32 million to continue providing residential waste services and strengthening efforts to reduce household waste and increase material recovery. The city recently rolled out a new bulk junk and greens collection service and is also exploring improved options for recycling organic waste. $10.5 million to deliver ranger services, safety patrols and further enhance its CCTV network. $8 million to maintaining free programs, resources and activities to connect and inspire residents at our Yanchep/Two Rocks, Clarkson, Wanneroo and Girrawheen libraries. A $14.9 million investment will progress construction of the Dordaak Kepup Landsdale library and youth innovation hub, with a $6 million boost from the State Government. Expected to open in late 2025, the facility is set to offer everything from classic library elements, seniors activities and early childhood offerings to youth innovation elements including STEAM programs and podcasting facilities. $38 million delivering major road upgrades and maintenance to help ease traffic congestion and improve safety across the city. Roads and streetlighting in Neerabup Industrial Area will benefit, with $3.8 million set aside for important upgrades and maintenance works.