Blacktown City Council has released its draft 2026/27 Operational Plan and Budget, the first in the council’s history to exceed $1 billion in planned spending.
The $1.011 billion budget, on public exhibition until 9 June, reflects the scale of growth in one of Australia’s fastest-expanding cities. A decade ago, when the LGA’s population was around 340,000, the council’s budget sat at $563 million.
More than $292 million is earmarked for major capital works. The largest single allocation, $125.8 million, goes to building improvements across the city. Roads and footpaths receive $32.7 million; upgrades to sporting grounds, including in Mount Druitt, draw $18.2 million; drainage and stormwater works are funded at $7.7 million; and $67.2 million is set aside for land acquisition in new release areas.
The draft budget also proposes a Special Rate Variation that would permanently increase rates for many homeowners by 15 per cent above the rate peg from 2026/27, with higher increases proposed for business properties. Council documents frame the rise as essential to maintain services and infrastructure in the face of sustained population pressure.
Residents and business owners who want to understand how the spending affects their rates or which capital projects are scheduled for their suburb can still review the full suite of draft documents at haveyoursay.blacktown.nsw.gov.au. The documents include the Revised Community Strategic Plan 2025-2050, the Works Improvement Program, and the Long-Term Financial Plan 2026-2036.
Submissions closed on 9 June. The draft budget is not yet final; feedback received during the exhibition window will inform the version adopted by council later this year. It is important to note the distinction between the headline $1.011 billion operating budget and the $292 million capital works program — the former covers all council services and day-to-day operations, the latter funds longer-term assets.
The final budget is expected to be adopted following council consideration, setting the course for Blacktown’s services and infrastructure through the next financial year.
Quick Facts
Blacktown City Council
Local government authority responsible for the City of Blacktown in Western Sydney, one of Australia’s fastest-growing areas. It manages services, infrastructure, planning, and community facilities for a large and expanding population.