The City of Perth says its $303 million annual Budget for 2025–26 is “future focused” to deliver “rapid growth, community wellbeing, and sustainable development” and ensure the state capital retains its status as one of the world’s most liveable cities.
The City is working towards an overall plan known as Future Perth, which, it says, will begin to take shape this year.
“Cost of living pressures are not going away. That’s why, for the fourth year running, we’ve delivered one of the lowest rate rises of any major Perth metro council at a modest 3.1 per cent,” said Deputy Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds.
“On top of this, we’re investing more than $24 million in community support, and opening up a $5.7 million Sponsorship and Grants program for events, culture, business innovation, and sustainability upgrades for residential buildings.”
“We’re approving the projects that will shape a more vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable Perth as we prepare for up to 55,000 residents by 2036 — over 20,000 more people in little more than a decade,” he added.
Work funded in the Budget includes:
- $3.5 million for upgrades such as the revitalisation of James Street, Russell Square and Claisebrook Cove, plus other planning for public open spaces;
- $5.8 million for sustainable event infrastructure, such as a permanent event stage at Supreme Court Gardens and improvements to Perth Town Hall;
- $1.8 million for smart city technologies and climate resilience; and
- Nearly $41 million for the renewal of key public infrastructure.
In addition, the Budget allocates funding for “day-to-day” infrastructure and social initiatives, such as:
- $12 million to improve roads, footpaths and public amenity;
- More than $40 million for ‘clean and green’ streets and parks, including $800,000 to protect trees from Polyphagous Shot-Hole Borer;
- $5.5 million for community safety initiatives, such as CCTV, patrols and lighting upgrades;
- A year-round events program worth $11 million.
The City is also working on the Towards 2036 initiative, led by global urban design firm Gehl Architects, with a $845,000 investment in community infrastructure and transport planning.
“Gehl’s work in the 1990s and 2000s helped deliver Cathedral Square and Elizabeth Quay. This next phase will help guide Perth’s transformation over the next decade,” Deputy Lord Mayor Reynolds said.
“This Budget balances the needs of now with the opportunities of tomorrow,” he added.
“With the ECU City Campus and WACA aquatic facility coming online, East Perth Primary School and major upgrades, and major developments underway on just about every corner, Future Perth is already taking shape.
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