Albury Council delays nearly 30 per cent rate rise over two years
Councillors voted five to four, and the chief executive must report on cuts by next March.
Albury Council voted five to four on Monday to delay a special rate variation, or SRV. An SRV lets a council raise rates above the usual limit.
Council staff had urged a cumulative rise of nearly 30 per cent in municipal taxes over two years. Councillor Jess Kellahan moved for a deferral and a review of the need for an SRV in 2027.
Chief executive Jason Gordon must report on how the deficit grew under Frank Zaknich, his predecessor. The deficit was a specified $11 million in 2025-26 budget papers but $23 million in a later disclosure.
Mayor Kylie King supported the deferral, citing strong community opposition to the increase. Councillor Kevin Mack, a former mayor, warned a delay could push the rise to 40 per cent or more.
- $11 million
- Deficit in 2025-26 budget papers
- $23 million
- Later disclosed deficit
- 29.96 per cent
- Proposed special rate variation
- 5-4 for deferral
- Council vote
Why it mattersRatepayers could face a bigger rise later if the decision is only postponed, councillors warned.
AustraliaAlbury ratepayers will not see the rise for now, and the question returns in the 2027-28 budget.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 58 min ago
Open this story in InSnip →
