Strong year-end financial result for Moyne

Published on 26 August 2025

Moyne Shire Council has recorded a strong financial result for the 2024/25 financial year, with preliminary figures showing a positive operating surplus and a well-executed capital works program.

Council ended the year with an operating surplus of $10.7 million, cash and investments totalling $20.2 million, and more than $29.7 million of capital works delivered across the shire.

Mayor Cr Karen Foster said the result reflected careful financial management and strong delivery of community projects.

“We are very pleased with these results, which demonstrate Council’s commitment to responsible financial management while continuing to invest in facilities and services for our community,” Cr Foster said.

“This year we delivered nearly $30 million in capital works, an increase of $3.6 million on last year. Major projects completed include Skate and Play and East Beach precinct improvements in Port Fairy, Hopkins Falls bridge renewal in Cudgee, and new lighting at Victoria Park in Koroit,” she said.

“It’s vital we maintain our roads, footpaths, bridges and drainage in line with community expectations. Our $15.4 million investment in these capital works represents a significant proportion of our total budget.”

“The $15.4 million capital works delivered on roads, footpaths, bridges and drainage as a proportion of Council’s total budget continues to be one of the highest ratios in rural Victoria.”

Council’s operating surplus was bolstered by the early receipt of $5.8 million in Federal Assistance Grants for the 2025/26 year, which is reflected in the current year’s accounts.

Even when this advance payment is excluded, Council’s underlying surplus remains positive at $0.26 million – ahead of forecast.

The report notes an increase in outstanding rates in arrears payments of 10% compared to last year.

Cr Foster said the rise was linked to cost-of-living and drought pressures on the community.

“We are mindful that many of our ratepayers are doing it tough, particularly those impacted by drought conditions across our rural areas,” she said.

“Council is working closely with ratepayers who are experiencing hardship. We offer tailored payment plans and support to help people stay on track, and we’ll continue to take a compassionate but proactive approach to managing arrears.”

The unaudited results will now be reviewed by external auditors, with final statements to be presented to Council in October as part of the Annual Report.

Cr Foster said the strong financial position gives the organisation a solid base moving into the next financial year.

“This result reflects both sound governance and a real focus on delivering for our community. It ensures we have the capacity to keep investing in projects and services that matter for the people of Moyne,” she said.