Council budgets extended

Councils across the state have been granted extra time to resolve budgets and annual reports as they deal with impact of the coronavirus crisis.

Local Government Minister Adem Somyurek announced an extended deadline for 2020-21 council budgets until 31 August and for annual reports to 30 November.

Councils are usually required to adopt their budgets by 30 June and to submit an annual report by 30 September each year. Councils continue to be required to give public notice and hear public submissions before adopting budgets or submitting an annual report.

The State Government is working with Councils and the Municipal Association of Victoria to consider the implications of coronavirus on their operations including the welfare of staff, compliance with the Act, elections and their meetings.

“This small change responds to requests from Councils and will ensure they have time to consider how they will change their budgets to support their residents and businesses,” Mr Somyurek said.