Draft Budget 2011/12, 1

The proposed increase in Council rates is 6.5%. This includes externally imposed cost increases such as the State Government's waste levy of $405,000 and the MFB fire services levy of $148,000. The draft budget's major focus is on making the City more sustainable and taking action on climate change. The budget proposes a capital works program of $31 million which includes major childcare projects, improving parks and gardens, cycling and walking, and improved streetscapes.