Mayor's update: Building a stronger future together

Published on 03 July 2026

Over the past few years, our community has heard a lot about Council's finances.

It hasn't always been easy reading, and I know many people have wondered when we would be able to move beyond talking about financial recovery and start talking more about the future.

We are making progress, but we're not there yet.

This week, Council adopted its 2026-27 Budget, setting the direction for the year ahead. It's a budget based on responsible financial decisions, careful planning and a commitment to protecting the services our community values while continuing the work of restoring Council's long-term financial health.

Thanks to the NSW Government providing Council with an additional year under our Performance Improvement Order, we've been able to avoid some of the significant service reductions that were being considered earlier this year. That's good news for our community, but it doesn't mean the hard work is over.

Financial recovery is about a number of decisions made consistently over time. That's the approach your Council is taking.

We're continuing to look for efficiencies, reviewing the way we operate, identifying new revenue opportunities and making sure every dollar we spend delivers value for our community.

At the same time, we're continuing to invest in the infrastructure, facilities and services that make Kiama such a special place to live.

We also have a responsibility to ensure any major event is financially sustainable.

The Council decision on New Years Eve is one of those decisions, committing funding towards bringing fireworks back if funding is available, while making it clear we'll actively seek sponsorship, grants and other external support so that ratepayers do not carry the significant cost.

If we can make it happen responsibly, that's exactly what we'd like to do. If not, we'll still work with local businesses and the community to deliver a safe, welcoming and enjoyable celebration that encourages people to spend New Year's Eve in Kiama.

For me, it’s about listening to what people value, being honest about the challenges we face, and making decisions that balance today's expectations with future commitments.

Not every decision will please everyone, but every decision should be made with the long-term interests of our community in mind.

I'm confident that by continuing to make sensible, measured decisions, we can strengthen Council's financial position while continuing to invest in the things that make people proud to call Kiama home.

Thank you, as always, for your patience, your feedback and your continued support as we keep moving our community forward together.

As a final note, nominations have now opened for the upcoming council by-election. On behalf of Kiama Municipal Council, I wish everyone putting their hand up to serve our community all the very best.

Standing for public office takes commitment and a genuine desire to contribute, and I thank each candidate for their willingness to be part of our community's future.