Source: Government of Western Australia
Wanneroo Council has endorsed a new Long-Term Financial Plan to ensure City infrastructure, services and community facilities keep pace with rapid population growth over the next decade.
The plan sets a clear and sustainable financial pathway as the City prepares for an additional 60,000 residents by 2035 and continued growth beyond that.
One of the fastest-growing local government areas in Australia, the City of Wanneroo has experienced significant population growth in recent years. Between 2036 and 2046, the City’s population is expected to increase by a further 140,000 residents to 440,000, primarily in East Wanneroo, Two Rocks and Yanchep.
This growth places increasing demands on road, community facilities, open spaces and local services.
The Long-Term Financial Plan responds to community feedback, changing service demands and the need to balance investment between established suburbs and emerging communities.
It focuses on maintaining and upgrading existing infrastructure, while delivering new assets where they are needed most.
Under the plan, the majority of asset-related investments will be directed towards upgrades valued at $562 million and renewal works totaling $402 million. A further $490 million will be invested in the acquisition and construction of new assets to support growing communities.
These investments will be supported by reserve balances, loan borrowings and rates revenue.
The City will continue to pursue grant or contribution funding to help minimise the impact on ratepayers.
The plan also outlines a structured approach to replenishing reserves and managing financial risk in a changing economic environment, including consideration of ageing infrastructure, competing community priorities and interest rates movements.
Wanneroo Mayor Linda Aitken said the plan positions the City to meet the needs of both current and future residents.
“We know our community expects infrastructure and services to keep up as our City grows,” she said.
“This allows us to plan ahead, invest responsibly and make sure we are funding what matters most to residents.
“It balances the need to deliver new facilities in rapidly growing areas with the responsibility to maintain and upgrade the assets our community already relies on.”
The Long-Term Financial Plan supports delivery of the recently endorsed Council Plan 2025-35, ensuring the City’s long-term vision and community priorities are backed by sustainable
and responsible financial planning.
The plan will continue to be reviewed annually.