THE Town of Bassendean council adopted its annual budget during the June ordinary council meeting, including a general rate increase of 3.91 per cent.

Town of Bassendean Mayor Kathryn Hamilton said the council was aware of ongoing cost-of-living pressures and delivered a budget designed to provide tangible value to residents.

“We’ve worked hard to strike the right balance between necessary investment and financial restraint,” she said.

“We understand that cost-of-living is a real challenge for many households, and we approach every financial decision with care.

“(Residents’) rates are an investment in the place we all call home, and we’re focused on ensuring that investment delivers genuine value.

“Thanks to savings identified through our
operations review, we’ve kept rate increases to a minimum, and we’re proud to maintain current waste charges without any fee increase for residents.

“We’ve been able to boost our reserves, redirect funding to community priorities and provide a 1 per cent subsidy on rates.

“We’re also holding the line on waste services and charges ensuring no increase for residential properties.

“Every investment in this budget is thoughtful and targeted – ensuring that every dollar is working hard for the people of this district.”

The 2025–26 budget delivers more than $21 million in investment across infrastructure, services and strategic priorities.

Projects in the capital works program include upgrades to ageing infrastructure and public facilities to ensure they remain safe, accessible and welcoming for residents and visitors.

Bassendean also secured nearly $7.7m in external funding through grants and election commitments for key community projects including the Ashfield Flats master plan, redevelopment of facilities at Jubilee Reserve, and planning for the revitalisation of Bassendean Oval.

Cr Hamilton said this year’s budget was the easiest ever thanks to the streamlined process and that the projects would reinvigorate Bassendean’s community spaces.

“These projects will breathe new life into our local spaces – supporting sport, recreation, and connection across all generations,” she said.

“At the heart of this budget are our people in Ashfield, Bassendean and Eden Hill.”

The budget was passed unanimously by council at the June 24 meeting.