Read our media release below to find out what's in store for 2024/2025.
Council looks to the future with 2024/25 Budget
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Image: McCallum Park Active Area
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Victoria Park Council has announced a sustainable, community-focused budget for 2024/25.
This year the Town is prioritising improvements to parks and public spaces and community connection. Major projects include the Edward Millen Redevelopment, the transformation of the McCallum Park Active Area, and upgrades at Higgins Park and Stiles-Griffiths Reserve.
Mayor Karen Vernon said the budget would ensure the Town could deliver a raft of improvements for residents.
“The 2024/25 budget reflects our dedication to creating a sustainable and vibrant community here in Victoria Park.”
"When I speak to residents, they tell me they love Vic Park’s beautiful green spaces and leafy streets, our convenient facilities and incredible local business offerings.”
“We are investing in projects that bring people together. We are working to enhance our public spaces, support local businesses, and promote environmental sustainability.”
Construction to revitalise the Edward Millen Precinct is set to kick off in 2024/2025. Restoration work will begin on the heritage buildings, shortly followed by upgrades to the surrounding parkland.
Work will also get underway this year to transform McCallum Park into a premier recreation destination. The upgrade, also made possible by State and Federal Government funding, will deliver key youth spaces including new basketball courts, a BMX pump track and skate and scooter areas.
The Town is strengthening its sustainability efforts, with the rollout of FOGO waste management in mid-2025, installation of new electric vehicle charging stations at key facilities, and a LED floodlight conversion at Fraser Park.
The community can look forward to the return of the beloved annual events program, with highlights including the Summer Street Party, Arts Season, and Twilight Soiree.
This budget strengthens support for local businesses through grant funding, networking opportunities including Business Awards and Business Breakfast, and the Town’s destination marketing campaigns such as Shop Local and Lunar New Year.
Over the last five years, the Town transitioned from supporting residents through COVID-19, to gradually repairing our budget for the future.
During the pandemic, the Town reduced rates, and only approved minimal increases for several years. This year’s 8% rates increase is required to fund the Town’s core responsibilities for asset management and renewal.
The average rate change over the past five years equates to a 2% increase per annum. This is significantly less than Perth’s average CPI increase of 3.8% over the same period.
In real terms, excluding revaluations, the average residential ratepayer will pay $170 more in 2024-2025 compared to 2018.
The Town will continue to advocate to State and Federal governments for greater funding through grants and reciprocal agreements to ensure community facilities and infrastructure are funded responsibly.