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From Albury Council defers special rate variation consideration

How could the deferral of the Special Rate Variation affect Albury's infrastructure funding?

Likely What happens if… A possibility worth considering, not a forecast.

Albury faces a $16.5 million annual funding gap without the SRV The council's decision to defer the Special Rate Variation (SRV) means the planned extraordinary increase in municipal taxes is postponed. Since the SRV was intended to help address the city's financial deficit, its shelving creates a significant funding gap. Specifically, without the SRV and continued adoption of rate pegs, there is an estimated $16.5 million annual funding gap required for the renewal of infrastructure, such as roads and drains. The council must now find measures and service cuts to return to a budget neutral position over the following five years without relying on the SRV.

Reported by 1 independent outlet Written Oct 18
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The facts so far

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  • The council voted 5-4 to defer the consideration of the SRV on October 12, 2026.bordermail.com.au
  • The SRV was intended to introduce a cumulative increase of nearly 30 per cent in municipal taxes across two years.bordermail.com.au
  • Without an SRV and continued adoption of rate pegs, there is estimated to be a $16.5 million annual funding gap for infrastructure renewal.bordermail.com.au
  • The council's operating deficit was cut from $26.4 million in 2024-25 to $13.8 million in 2025-26.bordermail.com.au

Why it matters

The deferral of the SRV directly impacts Albury's ability to maintain essential public services and infrastructure. The city is already managing a significant operating deficit, which has been reduced but remains substantial. The $16.5 million annual funding gap for roads and drains highlights the immediate pressure on the council to find alternative, non-tax-increase solutions to maintain service levels.

This decision comes amid strong grassroots opposition to the extraordinary rate hike, which was supported by several councillors, including Raissa Butkowski. However, critics warned that deferring the increase could lead to an even greater hike later, potentially resulting in a 40 per cent increase or more.

What we don't know yet

  • What specific measures and service cuts will the council implement to achieve budget neutrality without the SRV?
  • Will the deferral of the SRV lead to a longer deferral period before the issue is revisited?

What would change this answer

The council secures alternative funding or revenue streamsThe $16.5 million infrastructure funding gap could be mitigated, reducing the pressure for service cuts.
The deferral is extended significantly past the next council election in 2028The council may face increased political pressure to implement drastic measures or face a larger financial shortfall.

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