MEDIA RELEASE - Building a Stronger Future: Sutherland Shire Council Adopts 2025/26 Budget

Sutherland Shire Council is proud to announce the adoption of its new four-year Delivery Program and annual Operational Plan following extensive community consultation, which sets out an ambitious and community-focused vision for the future of Sutherland Shire.

These comprehensive plans reflect our community’s priorities and ensure the ongoing delivery of high-quality services and infrastructure for the Sutherland Shire community in the years ahead.

Sutherland Shire Mayor, Councillor Jack Boyd, reaffirmed Council’s commitment to transparent and strategic investment in the local community.

“This Delivery Program and Operational Plan is ambitious but responsible. It reflects Council’s commitment to deliver high-quality services, invest in our local infrastructure, and plan for a sustainable future,” Mayor Boyd said.

“At its heart, this plan is not just about numbers on a page - it’s about delivering real benefits to our community.

“Our budget reflects a strong commitment to community wellbeing, environmental sustainability, cultural enrichment, and future-focused urban planning. It prioritises essential services such as beach safety, stormwater infrastructure, libraries, and waste innovation, while continuing to invest in arts, sports, and community support programs that enhance quality of life for all residents.

“Our plan supports the development of key strategic documents to guide long-term growth and resilience and provides funding for over $95 million in capital works. Importantly, it delivers investment across all five wards, with targeted upgrades to local infrastructure, community spaces, and recreational facilities - ensuring we are delivering tangible benefits to every corner of the Shire.

“This budget ensures we can continue to provide vital services and infrastructure for our community while building towards a safer, stronger, and more vibrant Sutherland Shire for all.”

To guide Sutherland Shire’s long-term growth and sustainability, Council will continue developing a suite of strategic plans, including the Housing, Biodiversity, Resilience, Climate, and Economic Strategies, along with Place Plans for Miranda, Sutherland–Kirrawee, and Caringbah. These evidence-based documents will shape a future that balances development with environmental protection and local identity.

Council remains a proud supporter of local arts and culture, with dedicated funding for the ongoing operations of The Pavilion Performing Arts Centre, Hazelhurst Regional Gallery, and the newly opened Kirrawee Library+. These venues are part of a broader network of 34 Council-managed spaces that provide diverse opportunities for cultural expression, creativity, and community connection.

The budget also includes significant investment in active lifestyles, with ongoing upgrades to sporting fields, indoor centres, and leisure facilities. These well-maintained spaces encourage residents of all ages and abilities to stay healthy, active, and socially connected.

Environmental stewardship is well-supported in this year’s budget, with continued investment in stormwater drainage upgrades to reduce localised flooding and improve water quality. Bush regeneration, tree planting initiatives, and community education programs will also help preserve and enhance Sutherland Shire’s natural environment for generations to come.

A major sustainability initiative in this year’s budget is the commencement of the rollout of a Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) service. Council has committed $7 million to deliver the necessary infrastructure and a further $2.3 million to plan a new Community Recycling Centre and Circular Economy Hub - marking one of the most significant shifts in local waste management in a generation.

In total, the capital works program will deliver over $95 million in new and upgraded community infrastructure. This includes $20 million for road improvements, $31 million for parks and open spaces, $4 million for drainage projects, and $26 million for renewing and enhancing Council buildings. An additional $14 million will go toward modernising the Council fleet and delivering FOGO-related infrastructure.

Each ward across Sutherland Shire will see projects that reflect local needs:

  • A Ward: Continued upgrades to Cronulla Town Centre, renewal of Bundeena Wharf and Wally’s Wharf, work on the Captain Cook Drive cycleway, and renewal of Gunnamatta Pavilion.
  • B Ward: Significant investment in Seymour Shaw Park and Gymea Bay Baths, a new park at Caringbah Town Centre, and upgrades at Hazelhurst Art Gallery.
  • C Ward: Upgrades to Kareela Synthetic Oval, preparation of a master plan for Sylvania Waters - Taren Point Recreation Precinct, and new playgrounds at Como Pleasure Grounds and Meldrum Avenue Reserve.
  • D Ward: Continued work on Heathcote Oval Stage 2, improvements at Cooper Street Reserve, and upgrades to Sutherland and Engadine Leisure Centres.
  • E Ward: A new playground at Kodala Way Reserve, clubhouse upgrades at Blaxland Oval and Tom Evans Field, improvements to the Menai Indoor Sports Centre, and design planning for The Ridge Golf Course clubhouse.

“It ensures that the money collected through rates is delivering positive impact in our community - through services, spaces, and projects that improve life for everyone,” Mayor Boyd added.

“Every part of Sutherland Shire will benefit because this is a budget that delivers on local priorities while planning for the future.”