Published on Wednesday, 6 August 2025 at 12:00:00 PM
At a Special Council Meeting on 4 August 2025, the Shire of Wagin adopted its 2025–26 Annual Budget, committing $13.6 million to initiatives that strengthen community infrastructure and services. Over $4 million has been allocated to capital works.
Recognising housing as a critical issue for regional communities, the budget includes initial funding to implement the Shire’s staff accommodation strategy. This initiative will renew housing stock and release existing Shire-owned properties for sale to the private market.
The Shire continues to address gaps in health and social care, with increased staffing for aged care services. This includes the addition of a second part-time nurse and four new casual homecare staff. Financial support for the Wagin Medical Centre will ensure continued access to General Practitioner services for residents.
Key road upgrades are planned for Ballagin, Beaufort, Bockaring, Bullock Hills, Jaloran, and Behn Ord Roads, with seal widening works supported by Regional Roads Group and Roads to Recovery funding.
Community recreation also receives attention, with resurfacing of the outdoor sports courts at the showgrounds and maintenance funding for the Shire’s swimming pool.
To support this ambitious program, the Shire’s rates yield is forecast to increase by 3.75%. Non-minimum rate properties will see a 2.35% increase, while minimum rate properties will experience a larger adjustment to promote equity and encourage land activation.
A new UV differential rate category has been introduced for commercial energy generation and storage developments, such as wind farms and battery storage facilities. No properties will be impacted by this rate in the 2025-26 financial year but signals that the Shire intends to recover costs from such developments which represent a unique land use.
Cr Phillip Blight
SHIRE PRESIDENT
End of Media Release
Media Enquiries to Cr Phillip Blight | M: 0429 948 868 | E: sp@wagin.wa.gov.au
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