Supporting Our Community Now and Into the Future

Earlier this year, Council partnered with a Community Panel through a deliberative engagement process to help shape this draft Long-Term Financial Plan (LTFP), along with several other key strategic documents. The panel included a diverse group of local residents who came together to explore the challenges and opportunities facing our shire and provide meaningful input into Council’s long-term planning.

Under the Local Government Act 2020, councils must develop and maintain a Financial Plan covering at least the next 10 financial years, and this Draft Long Term Financial Plan outlines how Council will manage its finances over that period. The draft LTFP ensures Council can continue delivering the services and infrastructure our community values, like maintaining roads, supporting growth, and providing essential services, while remaining financially responsible and future focused.

We know the cost-of-living pressures are affecting many in our community. That’s why this draft LTFP focuses on keeping services affordable, managing rising costs, and planning for future challenges.

Council’s main source of income is rates, which are capped by the State Government. However, the cost of delivering services is rising faster than our income. To manage this, we’re working hard to find efficiencies and explore new ways to generate revenue, without compromising on service quality.

The Panel encouraged Council to look for alternative revenue sources, be transparent about fees, and align investments with community needs. Further details can be found in the Outcomes Report in the Document Library.

This draft Long-Term Financial Plan reflects a shared commitment: to maintain vital services, invest wisely, and ensure Cardinia Shire remains a great place to live, now and for future generations.

Click here to find out more about the community panel and other key strategic documents

Privacy Statement

We will be collecting your information for the purpose of inviting feedback on the Long-Term Financial Plan. To see our complete Privacy Policy here.

Cardinia Shire Council Privacy Collection Statement

Personal information collected by Council, or its contractors, is used for municipal purposes as specified in the Local Government Act 2020. The personal information will be held securely and used solely by Council for these purposes and/or directly related purposes. Council may disclose this information to other organisations if required or permitted by legislation, and who are bound by substantially similar obligations. The applicant understands that the personal information provided is for the above purpose and that they may apply to Council for access to and/or amendment of the information. Requests for access and/or correction should be made to Council’s Privacy Officer on 1300 787 624 or mail@cardinia.vic.gov.au