Council focuses on basics in 2026–27 Budget

Townsville City Council’s 2026–27 Budget delivers a back-to-basics approach, prioritising the everyday services residents rely on and expect.

Mayor Nick Dametto said despite rising operating costs, Council remains committed to maintaining core services.

“We’re doubling down on the basics with a significant portion of this budget focused on delivering the core services that keep Townsville running day to day - the services people expect to just work,” Cr Dametto said.

“Our focus is on efficiency and prioritisation, making sure these services continue to be delivered to the standard our community deserves.

“These might not be fancy projects you get to cut a ribbon on, but services like water, roads and drainage only get noticed when they fail and that’s why getting the basics right matters.

Supporting this approach is a $415.5 million capital works program, alongside the continued delivery of essential maintenance programs across the city.

Key capital investment includes:

• Roads and transport networks - $116.1 million across 62 projects aimed at improving connectivity and safety, including upgrades to the Northern Beaches trunk road network ($31.4 million), Murray Street reconstruction ($2.8 million) Veales Road and Darling Road intersection upgrade ($2 million), Hugh Street and Gulliver Street shared pathway ($3 million), and Melaleuca Street reconstruction ($1.4 million).
• Stormwater and drainage - $14.2 million across 16 projects to support strengthening flood resilience and water management, including works on Hammond Way culverts ($1.2 million), Winifred Street flood improvements ($1 million), Sykes Close drain construction ($25,000) and Commercial Avenue drainage renewal ($1 million).
• Water and wastewater infrastructure - $108.2 million maintaining essential services through major upgrades and sewer network rehabilitation including Stage 2 of the Wulguru Wastewater resilience project ($4.5 million), West End Reservoir renewal ($3.65 million) and Thuringowa Sewer Trunk Main rehabilitation ($1.5 million).
• Parks and open spaces - $9.8 million, supporting well-maintained and accessible community spaces, including irrigation renewal projects ($700,000), park lighting at Charles Maroney Park ($220,000), Stage 3 of the Riverside Green project including a dedicated carpark ($900,000) and Stage 2 Recreation Use on Ross River Dam - Boat Ramp Design ($270,000).
• Buildings and community facilities - $8.9 million, ensuring community assets remain safe, functional and fit for purpose including the Kalynda Chase Tennis Centre – Court Lighting renewal ($214,000), Security improvements and upgrades ($200,000) and Energy Transition project ($1.5 million).

These investments focus on maintaining and renewing the essential infrastructure and public spaces that residents use every day, from local roads and drainage, to parks, playgrounds and major community precincts.

“A dedicated renewal program will ensure The Strand, now more than 25 years old, remains fit for purpose - supporting its ongoing revitalisation while keeping it at its best today and planning for the future.”

Council is doing its part to support Queensland Police Service and the Queensland Government. in their lead role in crime prevention and community safety.

In doing so Council will continue to invest in community safety and local facilities, including expanded CitySafe patrol coverage on weekends, increased cleaning in high-use public areas within the CBD and Strand precinct, extended lifeguard hours at Riverway Lagoon, and targeted after-hours patrols to address illegal dumping.

“People expect a city they can feel safe in and proud of, and this investment ensures our public spaces are maintained to that standard.”

Councillor Dametto said maintenance programs such as cleaning and mowing are central to Council’s back-to-basics approach.

“Our people are out there every day making sure the city runs smoothly and looks its best. It’s that everyday work, that keeps the city running and makes a real difference to how people experience Townsville,” Cr Dametto said.

The Budget also includes investment in replacing outdated systems and technology, improving how the community connects with Council and giving employees the right tools to deliver for Townsville.

“Residents have been asking for a focus on the basics, and the positive feedback shows confidence in the work being delivered across Townsville.

“Maintaining these everyday services, and delivering them to the standard our community expects, is the backbone of this Budget.”

The Budget includes total investments of:

• $116.1 million Road and transport network
• $108.2 million Water and wastewater infrastructure
• $14.2 million Stormwater and drainage
• $9.8 million Parks and open spaces
• $8.9 million Buildings and community facilities

Visit our Budget 2026/27 page for more details.