Glenorchy City Council approves a budget each year that funds all Council services, infrastructure and projects.
How the budget is set
Council’s budget is developed by staff and presented to elected Aldermen for approval each June. The community is invited to provide input before the budget is finalised.
The budget covers:
- Operating expenditure — the cost of running day-to-day services such as waste collection, road maintenance and community programs
- Capital expenditure — investment in infrastructure such as roads, parks, buildings and facilities
- Revenue — rates, fees and charges, grants and other income
How we pay for services
Council’s main sources of income are:
- Rates paid by property owners
- Fees and charges for services
- Government grants
- Other revenue
Community input
We invite the community to provide feedback on budget priorities before the budget is finalised each year. Watch for announcements about public consultation.
Current budget
The adopted budget for the current financial year is available on the Documents and Publications page.
Budget FAQ
Why does Council have a budget?
The budget keeps Council financially stable while funding essential community services. The 2025/26 budget projects a small surplus of $871,000 and aligns with the 2023–2032 Strategic Plan.
What are the highlights of this year’s budget?
Key investments include:
- $23.4M for new and improved Council infrastructure
- $8.3M for the Glenorchy Memorial Pool, Humphries Rivulet and an International Food Garden
- $1.2M for maintaining Council buildings
- $1.1M for recreation and environmental services
- $600,000 for city cleanliness
Funding also covers community halls, childcare services and youth programs.
What are council rates and what do they pay for?
Rates are a property tax that funds local services including roads and footpaths, parks, waste collection, city cleanliness, community programs and local events.
What is the 2025/26 rate increase?
The average increase across residential and non-residential properties is 4.95%.
How are rates calculated?
The Valuer-General assigns each property an Assessed Annual Value (AAV) — an estimate of its annual rental value. Your rates are calculated by multiplying the AAV by a set rate in the dollar.
When are rates due?
Rates can be paid in full or in quarterly instalments. The 2025/26 due dates are 15 August 2025, 1 November 2025, 1 February 2026 and 1 May 2026.
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