Council Budget 2025/26: A Roadmap for Growth and Resilience

Published on 03 July 2025

Mayor Rick Britton has unveiled the Boulia Shire Council’s 2025/26 Budget(PDF, 8MB), calling it “a budget for the future” that lays the groundwork not only for the next few years but for the next generation of residents in the remote outback region.

Central to the budget is a substantial investment in road infrastructure, underscoring Council’s commitment to connectivity, safety, and economic opportunity. “This is all about planning ahead - not just for today or tomorrow, but for the next 5, 10, and 25 years,” Mayor Britton said.

Major Road Works and Safety Upgrades
We have committed to the Council’s road network, backed by a combination of external funding and our local reserve funds.

Key projects include:

$6 million for paving and sealing the Donohue Highway, part of the iconic Outback Way – Australia’s Longest Shortcut.
$909,532 from Roads to Recovery and $300,000 via TIDS for additional sealing work on the Donohue Highway.
Over $11.3 million in flood damage repairs, particularly following rain events earlier this year, creating employment for Council workers and local contractors.
$2.1 million in State-funded Road maintenance, including upgrades on the Mt Isa Rd and other safety measures.

The Donohue Highway remains a priority, with Mayor Britton highlighting the challenge of maintaining and sealing a major route managed by a small local Council:

“It’s a double-edged sword — we want to keep our people employed and roads trafficable, but the cost of completion is significant and won't happen without the support from State and Federal governments.”

Our focus is on Future-Ready Infrastructure & Community Projects
Looking beyond roads, the Council has committed to infrastructure that supports growth and community wellbeing:

Development of a new Residential Estate (Stage 1) with housing and shaded recreational spaces.
The Boulia Community Hub, a wonderful project including a new Council administration building is funded through the Growing Our Regions program.
Electronic road signage and Hamilton Channels flood resilience upgrades through the $4.5 million Nth Qld Resilience Program.

Investment for Housing, Technology, and Environment
Council is allocating over $2.1 million to housing, including upgrades to 22 houses and 18 units, construction of a new residence. A further $768,100 will be invested in information technology, focusing on system upgrades and hardware replacement.

Environmental stewardship remains a priority, with $374,350 allocated for pest control, stock routes, and wild dog and feral pig management.

Community, Culture and Tourism
Tourism continues to play a central role in Boulia’s identity and economy. $1.09 million is budgeted to maintain the Min Min Encounter and Heritage Complex. Council is also dedicating $160,000 to community events, including iconic gatherings like the Camel Races and Rodeo.

Rates and Service Charges
To support these initiatives, Council has approved a modest increase of $1.54 per week in general rates and services. Water and sewerage charges have also increased, with water now $736/year and sewerage $509/year.

Outlook: A Vision Beyond 2025
The Boulia Shire Council continues to foster partnerships through organisations like RAPAD, the Western Alliance, and the Outback Highway Development Council, ensuring a united approach to regional challenges and opportunities.

In closing, Mayor Britton reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to driving growth, sustaining the local economy, and improving the quality of life for all residents:

“We’re not just working for today — we’re building for the future of Boulia, creating the foundation for Community”

For more updates on budget allocations and community projects, stay tuned to www.boulia.qld.gov.au.