Budget
Cairns Regional Council's 2026/27 Budget was handed down at a Special (Budget) Meeting on Wednesday 17 June 2026.
- $786M total budget
- $308M capital works budget
- 3.95% general rate rise + water and waste utility charges and State Waste Levy (7.5% total rate rise)
- $41.6M to service and maintain community assets
Investing in safe, resilient, connected communities
Cairns’ residents will benefit from a significant investment of $36.4 million in community infrastructure, active travel, recreation facilities and public spaces as part of Council's 2026/27 Budget.
Backing tourism, events and sporting activities
Targeted investments designed to attract visitors, support events and promote sporting activities are key component of Council’s 2026/27 Budget.
Changes to city parking
Cairns Regional Council is introducing a series of updates to CBD parking arrangements from 1 July designed to improve bay availability, support local traders, and help maintain the city’s parking infrastructure.
Budget meets today’s challenges
Council has adopted its 2026/27 Budget, delivering a plan that responds to current challenges while continuing to invest in the region’s future and maintain the services and infrastructure the community relies on.
Councillors' 2026/27 Budget addresses
Comments from each of the nine Divisional Councillors on the 2026-27 Budget.
Mayor's 2026/27 Budget address
This Budget provides for the delivery of essential services, investment in important infrastructure and continued progress towards a more financially sustainable future.
What this Budget means for you
Every $100 of your rates is invested in important services and infrastructure.
Last Updated: 22 June 2026
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