đź“Ś Budget & rates explained
How inflation, service costs and long‑term planning shape how Council delivers its commitments to the community.
This page explains how Council develops its annual Budget, why rates may change from year to year, and how broader economic conditions — including inflation — affect costs and decision‑making.
Council’s Budget is made up of two core parts — one that funds day‑to‑day services, and one that funds longer‑term infrastructure and major works.
Funds the day‑to‑day running of Council and the services the community relies on.
Funds major projects and infrastructure that support the city now and into the future.
Council’s approach to the 2026–27 Budget is shaped by a challenging financial environment and clear feedback from the Redlands Coast community.
Community engagement undertaken late last year reinforced the importance of getting the basics right.
Delivering what matters most to the community in a responsible and sustainable way has been central to early Budget planning. Councillors, finance officers and the Executive Leadership Team are participating in a series of workshops ahead of the Special Budget Meeting in June, focusing on balancing community priorities with the real cost of delivering everyday services.
Priorities include:
Developing the Budget is a detailed and collaborative process that takes place over several months. Council must consider its overall financial position, economic conditions, support from other levels of government, priority projects for the city and long‑term sustainability — while also working to keep rate increases as low as possible.
While details are still being finalised, further information on budget trends, cost pressures and Council’s financial position will be confirmed as part of the Budget process. Additional resources will be available on Council’s website ahead of the Special Budget Meeting on 30 June 2026.
Council budgets are developed using the best available economic forecasts at the time.
Inflation does not affect Council in isolation — it influences the cost of materials, contracts and services across the economy.
These factors place additional pressure on Council’s operating costs and long‑term financial planning.
Quick answers to common questions about rates, charges and how the Budget works.
Rates are levied on residential and commercial properties to fund essential local services, including:
Rates notices may also include water usage charges and charges collected on behalf of the Queensland Government, such as the Emergency Management Levy.
Rates and charges are Council’s primary source of income, supplemented by government grants, developer contributions and borrowings.
Council considers affordability alongside service delivery and long‑term financial sustainability in each Budget.
Why rates can increase
When the cost of delivering services rises — due to inflation or higher material and labour costs — Council may need to adjust rates to maintain service levels.
Council absorbs as much of this impact as possible, but some increase is necessary to meet its responsibilities as a local government.
Each year, Council aims to balance affordability for residents with the need to fund services and infrastructure the community relies on.
Why rates differ between properties
Council uses a differential rating system, which means rates can vary depending on:
The rate‑in‑the‑dollar (RID) for each category is set annually in Council’s revenue statement. When land valuations increase, the RID is adjusted to ensure Council only raises the revenue required to deliver services.
This system is used across south‑east Queensland to ensure costs are shared equitably.
Why do I pay for services I don’t personally use?
Rates fund services and infrastructure across the entire city, not individual households or suburbs. This shared approach ensures all residents benefit from a well‑functioning city.
Why does most rates revenue come from residential properties?
Around 80% of properties on Redlands Coast are residential, with a smaller commercial and industrial base compared to other councils. This means a greater share of rates revenue comes from residential properties. This reflects the city’s character and lifestyle, with fewer large industrial areas than other parts of south‑east Queensland.