Budget Figures and Project Dates Outline Whitehorse Council Priorities

The 2026/2027 Whitehorse City Council budget carries a 2.75% rate rise that matches the State Government rate cap and allocates $194 million to services plus $85 million to capital works.

Budget Allocations and Rate Adjustments

These figures form the core of the virtually finalised budget, directing resources to ongoing operations and new infrastructure spending. The rate rise remains capped at the state level, providing a clear percentage benchmark for property owners in the municipality.

Facility Reopening and Completion Dates

Box Hill City Oval reopened on 16 May 2026 after installation of a new playing surface and synthetic track. The two-storey West Pavilion at the same site is scheduled for completion in mid-2027. Whitehorse City Council has endorsed a precinct management model that lets the Box Hill Hawks Football Club and Box Hill Cricket Club share oversight of the oval, with broader sporting facility works also set to finish in 2027.

Site Advocacy and Open Space Targets

Council continues to push for full rehabilitation of the 7ha Box Hill Brickworks site as community open space. It is urging the Planning Minister to reject a planning panel recommendation that would restrict public open space on the site to 5%.

Cultural Centre Planning Stages

The proposed Chinese Community and Cultural Centre in Box Hill remains in early planning. Council is waiting on state and federal support to fund a feasibility study that will examine site options and long-term financial sustainability.

These verified dates, percentages and dollar amounts provide residents with concrete reference points for tracking council progress on services, recreation facilities and land-use outcomes through the coming financial year.