Published on Wednesday, 17 June 2026 at 1:28:03 PM
Like households and businesses, local governments are experiencing higher costs across service delivery, maintenance and infrastructure. This Budget balances those pressures with the need to maintain essential services and continue investing in Vincent’s future.
Residential rates will increase by 5.4 per cent - approximately $1.85 per week for the median household.
Vincent remains one of the lowest rating councils in Perth, ranked eighth-lowest for residential rates in 2025/26 based on the median property value.
Council has also introduced a new differential rate for un-hosted short-term rental accommodation (STRA) set at 20 per cent above the standard residential rate, and increased rates for uninhabitable vacant properties or undeveloped land by 40.9 per cent to encourage new housing supply.
Mayor Alison Xamon said the 2026/27 Budget focuses on maintaining Vincent’s day-to-day liveability while responding responsibly to cost pressures.
“Our community expects us to deliver the things that matter day to day, including well-maintained roads, safe streets, accessible footpaths and clean public spaces,” Mayor Xamon said.
“This Budget ensures we maintain those services while managing rising costs and planning for the future.”
In line with community expectations, the Budget maintains a strong focus on core services, including road and footpath maintenance, street cleaning, graffiti removal, tree planting, park upkeep and waste services.
A $25.4 million capital works program will deliver upgrades across roads, drainage, parks, playgrounds and sporting facilities. Around 78 per cent of capital expenditure will be directed towards renewing or maintaining existing assets to avoid larger replacement costs over time.
Key projects for 2026/27 include:
- Robertson Park upgrades - $2.3 million
- Forrest Park improvements - $1.5 million
- Polyphagous shot-hole borer (PSHB) response and urban greening - $882,000
- New skate space for the North Perth area - $403,000
The City continues to prioritise long-term financial sustainability with no new borrowings proposed and existing loans continuing to be paid down.
As Vincent’s population grows, the City will continue to seek support from State and Federal governments to help deliver major projects and reduce pressure on ratepayers.
“Local governments are increasingly being required to take on responsibilities without adequate funding,” Mayor Xamon said.
“This cost shifting has real impacts for our community and we will continue to advocate for a fairer funding arrangement.
Vincent was recently recognised as a Best Practice Entity for the second year in a row by the WA Office of the Auditor General, reflecting the City’s commitment to transparent and accountable financial management.
The full budget, including detailed project information and fees and charges is available here.
Rates smoothing and instalment payment options are available, with financial hardship assistance offered for residents experiencing financial difficulty.
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