Greater Bendigo budget and planning decisions shape daily services and creek health for residents

Greater Bendigo City Council has adopted its $280 million 2026-27 budget with nearly $100 million directed to roads, buildings, parks and community facilities. The decision comes as the council operates in caretaker mode while postal voting proceeds for the October 24, 2026 local election.

These choices affect everyday access to maintained streets, open spaces and public buildings for residents across the municipality. The timing adds weight because voters are already receiving ballot papers, and the outcomes will guide spending priorities through the next council term.

Planning changes target city centre growth

Council approved Amendment C279gben to update the Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme. The amendment introduces new activity zones, heritage guidelines and parking overlays to support city centre growth, with the full process expected to take 12-18 months.

Residents will see clearer rules for development and heritage protection in central areas once the changes advance. The update builds on the Bendigo City Centre Plan and will shape how future projects fit existing streetscapes and zoning.

Finance report and creek remediation move forward

The latest finance report forecasts a $9.4 million budget deficit, leading council to secure a $3 million loan while VAGO indicators show the overall financial risk remains low. Separately, a remediation plan addressing contamination of Bendigo Creek from the Bendigo Gasworks site has been completed and approved by the EPA, with a site management plan to be developed over the next six months.

These steps determine how quickly runoff issues are controlled and how the council balances its books without major service cuts. The six-month timeline for the site management plan gives residents a concrete window for visible progress on the creek.

Council will continue routine operations under caretaker rules until the election results are declared. Residents can review the full budget documents and amendment details on the council website to understand the specific projects and timelines that will affect their neighbourhoods.