Shire of Narrogin chief executive Dale Stewart in front of the shire building. The Shire of Narrogin has appointed their wholehearted support to the Nationals WA pledge to implement a comprehensive State Planning Policy for renewable energy projects.
The Shire of Narrogin has confirmed a 4 percent rate increase for the 2025-26 budget, primarily to fund significant housing and infrastructure initiatives. This decision was made during the ordinary council meeting on July 23, 2024, where the council adopted a comprehensive budget totaling $32.5 million.
Shire Chief Executive Dale Stewart described the rate increase as “modest” in light of the ambitious financial plan. Urban properties in Narrogin will face a minimum rate of $1,340, while rural ratepayers will pay a minimum of $1,265, and residents of Highbury will see a lower minimum of $980. This increase mirrors the 4 percent rise implemented in the previous year, which Mr. Stewart characterized as “sustainable.”
The council justified the rate hike by emphasizing the necessity to manage rising costs associated with maintenance and infrastructure services. “We’re trying to position the community to be prepared for an uplift in demand for property, accommodation, and development associated with two current renewable projects approved, with further projects on the horizon,” said Mr. Stewart.
The council considered the differential rates established during the merger negotiations between the Shire and the town of Narrogin. Ratepayers were granted a 10-year period to achieve rate parity, with the current budget marking the eighth year of this process. The proposed initial increase of 4.5 percent was deemed excessive, as the council did not receive any public submissions regarding the rate increase.
In addition to the rate adjustments, the allowances for the council’s president and deputy president have been modified. The president’s allowance has risen from $26,067 to $26,980, while the deputy president’s allowance increased from $6,517 to $6,745. Furthermore, fees for meeting attendance for elected members will see an annual increase of $350.
The budget highlights include a $12.5 million housing and land development project, which has garnered support through $8 million in grants from the Commonwealth and State governments. This initiative is complemented by a $3.1 million joint facility for the State Emergency Service and Bush Fire Brigade.
Mr. Stewart elaborated on the housing project, stating, “We’re completing 18 accommodation units at the caravan park, plus looking to develop at least 31 residential blocks with several houses on those blocks.” The Shire aims to collaborate with the private sector to construct these homes in conjunction with the council and the implementation of a $5 million grant from the Commonwealth Government.
The budget also allocates funding for essential services such as road maintenance and infrastructure development. “We have to maintain our infrastructure to an acceptable and safe level and provide the services and facilities that our community expects,” Mr. Stewart added. Planned improvements include the extension of roads and the sealing of 2 kilometers of Narrogin Valley Road, among other projects.
Overall, the Shire of Narrogin’s budget for 2025-26 demonstrates a commitment to addressing community needs while managing financial sustainability. The council believes that the rate increase will support necessary developments and infrastructure enhancements for the growing community.
