Published on Friday, 1 August 2025 at 1:47:45 PM
Council has endorsed its Annual Budget and Rating Strategy 2025/26, reinforcing its commitment to responsible financial management, community-focused service delivery, and sustainable long-term growth.
This year’s $26 million Capital Works Program will fund a significant range of infrastructure projects across the Shire, including continued investment in the Dalyellup Multipurpose Community and Youth Centre (DMCYC), upgraded recreational facilities, improved community safety infrastructure, and investment in local trails and public amenities.
The Annual Budget 2025/26 has been developed in alignment with the Shire’s Strategic Community Plan and the Corporate Business Plan, resulting in an 3% average increase to residential zones. The Budget reflects community input received through last year’s extensive community engagement processes and delivers on a wide range of projects that meet the communities priorities.
Shire President Doug Kitchen said the budget demonstrates a clear and responsible plan to deliver essential services, improve community assets, and support a growing population.
“This is a sound budget, with a lot of ambition for our community and our future,” President Kitchen said. “It balances the need for financial sustainability with meaningful investment in infrastructure, services, and our people. The Shire is focused on building strong foundations for growth, while remaining flexible and responsive to changing community needs.”
“From community facility upgrades and improved playgrounds to investment in our workforce and the digital transformation of our customer service systems – every dollar has been carefully allocated to support a thriving, connected, and resilient community.”
Some key projects for 2025/26 will include:
- $26 million Capital Program of Works, including roads, bridges, drainage, paths, parks, and facilities.
- $2.3 million for current and new projects as outlined in the Shire’s Corporate Business Plan.
- $111,246 in Community Budget Submissions funded to support community-led initiatives.
- $2.6 million in reserve transfers to strengthen the Shire’s long-term financial position.
- 13.5 new positions allocated to support service delivery for a growing population.
- Investment in waste infrastructure, asset renewal, and strategic long-term planning.
Major capital projects include:
- Dalyellup Multipurpose Community and Youth Centre – Stage 2 build ($11.3 million)
- Mallokup Bridge Dual Lane Upgrade ($1.98 million, fully grant funded)
- Dalyellup Ferndale Park Oval Lighting ($550,993)
- New playground equipment at Gelorup’s Sheoak Park and Community Centre ($300,000 total)
- Upgrades to Peppermint Grove Beach ablutions, BMX track in Capel, and trail enhancements in Boyanup
- Further capital upgrades to the Capel overnight rest area
- Master planning of the Shire owned cemeteries in Capel and Boyanup.
Looking Ahead
In response to the Shire’s growing demands, the budget sets a clear direction for the years ahead with focus areas including:
- Strengthening asset management and infrastructure renewal
- Supporting the Shire’s Waste Strategy and sustainability commitments
- Continuing strategic planning and economic development, through projects such as the Integrated Growth Framework
- Enhancing customer service and operational effectiveness through the Enterprise Resource Program
- Supporting the delivery of key strategic projects, such as the Bunbury-Capel-Busselton Cycle Link and Ironstone Gully day-use area improvements.
The Annual Budget 2025/26 represents a forward-looking and community-informed plan, ensuring the Shire of Capel remains the lifestyle of choice Local Government now, and into the future.
For further information or to view the full Annual Budget Report, visit www.capel.wa.gov.au.
Doug Kitchen
Shire President
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