02/06/2026
βΉ FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY UPDATE π
Council was unsuccessful in its application for a special variation of rates for 2026/27. The determination by IPART does not resolve the serious financial challenges we face, and we will continue to communicate with the community as we progress our ongoing financial sustainability journey.
In the meantime, we have prepared a draft Delivery Program and Operational Plan (DPOP) for 2026/27 using available revenue based on the rate peg, which is currently on exhibition.
The draft DPOP reflects a reduced works program, including less road and infrastructure maintenance and fewer drainage and flood management improvements than would have been possible under the proposed Special Variation.
Have your say on our draft Delivery Program and Operational Plan for 2026/27 here: https://together.cessnock.nsw.gov.au/draft-operational-plan-2026-2027