VOLUNTEER Bushfire Brigade station upgrades at Darlington, Parkerville, Wooroloo, Glen Forrest and Mount Helena were the big winners in the Shire of Mundaring’s 2026/27 annual budget with $3 million allocated.
An additional $497,000 was also allocated for fire access road improvements.
Other big ticket items under a $39m capital works program include change rooms and pavilions at Boya ($2.1m) and Glen Forrest ($2.1m), the Sculpture Park amphitheatre ($1.8m) and the fenced dog park at Brown Park oval ($430,000).
Road works saw allocations to the Brooking Road extension ($2.5m), Roland Road resurfacing ($1m), Stoneville Road resurfacing ($645,000) and Richardson Road footpath works ($171,000).
Waste management came in at $9.6m, recreation area maintenance ($5.1m), maintenance of 121 community buildings ($3.1m), maintenance of the two aquatic centres ($1.2m), library services ($2m) and youth services and Aboriginal engagement ($381,000)
“Developed to deliver community priorities reflected in the council plan, the 2026/27 budget balances responsible financial management with the delivery of the services, facilities and infrastructure valued by the community,” a spokesperson said.
“It also responds to rising costs across local government, including materials, contracts and service delivery.”
Shire President Paige McNeil said council was proud to present a financially responsible budget that delivers on our community’s priorities while investing in the future.
“This budget delivers important improvements across the shire, including modern, accessible changerooms at Boya, Glen Forrest and the Mundaring Sporting Club, ensuring our sporting facilities continue to meet the needs of a growing and active community,” Ms McNeil said.
“In partnership with the federal government, we are also upgrading our volunteer bush fire brigade stations, supporting the dedication of our volunteers and strengthening community safety and emergency preparedness.
“Protecting our unique environment also remains a priority. This year’s budget expands our successful Seedlings for Landcare program, providing Firewise plants for urban areas and supporting residents to create safer, more resilient and sustainable landscapes.
“We are equally committed to supporting the people who make our community thrive through expanded youth services, community events and seniors programs that foster connection, wellbeing and belonging. These initiatives help build a stronger, more inclusive and connected community.”
The budget includes a 3.9 per cent average rate increase, aligned with increases in the Consumer Price Index and wage costs, while supporting the continued delivery of services, facilities and infrastructure across the shire.
Overall rate revenue has increased to help fund the services, facilities and infrastructure the community relies on.
Individual rates notices may change by different amounts because property valuations have recently been updated, affecting how rates are distributed across properties.
Residents can find more detailed information on the shire’s rates webpages.
