Special Meeting Update

Renmark Paringa Council Adopts Balanced Budget Approach Following Community Feedback

Renmark Paringa Council has adopted a revised rating model for its 2025/26 Annual Business Plan and Budget, following community feedback on the initial proposal.

Endorsed at a Special Council Meeting held tonight, the chosen option introduces a smoothed general rate increase of 9 per cent in 2025/26, followed by increases of 6 per cent in each of the following two years, inclusive of growth.

The 9 per cent increase is an increase of $97 a year for the average residential household.

The endorsed option was one of three rating scenarios presented to Elected Members.

After considering detailed financial modelling, the long-term implications of each scenario, and feedback received from sections of the community during consultation, Elected Members chose the option as a balanced compromise that addresses immediate affordability pressures while maintaining a path to long-term financial sustainability.

Renmark Paringa Mayor Peter Hunter said Elected Members were required to make a difficult decision that balanced competing priorities.

“This was not an easy decision. Elected Members were faced with the challenge of weighing cost-of-living concerns expressed by parts of the community against our responsibility to plan for the long-term financial viability of Council,” he said.

“Ultimately, we’ve chosen a path that eases some of the immediate pressure while still keeping us on track to return to an operating surplus by 2028/29.”

During the consultation period, residents expressed concern about the affordability of the originally proposed increase in 2025/26.

In response, Elected Members moved a recommendation for administration to investigate more manageable alternatives. The adopted option reduces the average annual residential rate increase by $51, lowering the figure from $147 to $96 in Year 1 of the budget-recovery period.

Mayor Hunter said Council valued the input it received through the consultation process.

“We appreciate those community members who took the time to provide feedback and engage with us on the budget,” he said.

“It has reinforced the importance of maintaining clear communication and transparency around these significant decisions.

“Council looks forward to continuing to build on this positive relationship with our community and will look for opportunities to further improve how we share information and engage on key issues in future.”

Council’s current financial position also continues to reflect the significant and ongoing impact of the 2022/23 River Murray flood.

The damage to infrastructure and the unanticipated recovery costs placed substantial pressure on Council’s budget, forcing it into a deficit position.

“The financial hit we took during the 2022/23 flood has had long-lasting effects,” Mayor Hunter said.

“It pushed us into a deficit position, and we’re still managing the recovery to Council’s budget.”

To support the revised rating approach and ensure Council continues moving toward financial sustainability, a number of strategic initiatives are being undertaken.

A comprehensive review of Council’s rating structure will be undertaken in the next planning cycle to assess equity, efficiency, and alignment with strategic objectives.

The review will consider elements such as differential rates, fixed charges, and the impact of growth.

Council will continue to explore asset rationalisation opportunities, including the potential sale of underutilised assets, and will continue to actively pursue grants that help reduce its reliance on ratepayer funding.

Mayor Hunter said Council remains committed to careful planning and ongoing dialogue with the community.

“This is one step in a much broader recovery journey,” he said.

“With a clear plan, prudent financial management, and an ongoing focus on open communication, we’re laying the foundations for a stronger and more resilient future for the Renmark, Paringa and Lyrup communities.”

There are a number of options available if you’re struggling to pay your rates:

• Rates Hardship Relief – Council has a Rates Hardship Policy that allows eligible ratepayers to apply for payment arrangements, deferrals, or, in some cases, remission of rates. Each case is assessed individually with compassion and confidentiality.
• Concessions and Rebates – You may be eligible for State Government concessions, including the Cost of Living Concession or Rates Concession. Visit www.sa.gov.au/concessions or call 1800 307 758 to learn more.
• Financial Counselling – Free, confidential support is available through services such as the National Debt Helpline (1800 007 007) or local providers such as AC Care and Centacare.

We strongly encourage anyone having trouble meeting their rates payments to contact our Finance Team on 8580 3000 or email council@renmarkparinga.sa.gov.au.

You can also view Council’s Rates Hardship Policy here.