Where your money goes

Every $100 of your rates is invested in important community services and infrastructure.

Every day, your rates help keep Cairns running.

From the roads we drive on, to the bins we wheel out each week, to the parks, pools and libraries we all enjoy, rates are an investment back into our community.

Around 85% of Council’s revenue comes from rates.

While local councils collect only a small share of Australia’s overall tax revenue, we are responsible for delivering and maintaining a significant portion of the public infrastructure people rely on every day.

Council is committed to ensuring your rates are spent responsibly, transparently and in ways that deliver the greatest benefit to the Cairns community.

Essential services

A portion of every dollar funds the services you use every week, including:

• Waste collection and recycling
• Water supply and sewerage services
• Public health and safety services
• Regulatory services and community safety

These are the services that keep our city functioning day to day.

Roads, footpaths and drainage

Maintaining infrastructure is one of Council’s largest responsibilities.

Your rates help fund:

• Maintenance and upgrades of local roads
• Footpaths and shared pathways
• Stormwater drainage systems
• Traffic management and safety improvements

This ensures our city remains accessible, connected and resilient.

Community facilities and programs

Rates also support the places and programs that bring people together.

This includes:

• Libraries and learning programs
• Community centres
• Public swimming pools
• Sports grounds and recreational facilities
• Community development initiatives

These services help build a strong, inclusive and active community.

Parks, environment and open spaces

Cairns is known for its natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle.

Your rates help maintain:

• Parks, playgrounds and gardens
• Esplanade and public open spaces
• Environmental protection initiatives
• Coastal and natural area management

Protecting and enhancing our environment ensures Cairns remains a great place to live now and into the future.

Events, culture and tourism

Rates also contribute to the vibrancy of our region by supporting:

• Community events and festivals
• Arts and cultural programs
• Public spaces activation
• Tourism-enabling infrastructure

These activities strengthen local businesses, attract visitors, and build civic pride.

Disaster preparedness and resilience

Living in a tropical region means preparing for extreme weather.

Your rates support:

• Disaster planning and response
• Flood mitigation infrastructure
• Emergency management coordination
• Community resilience programs

This helps protect people, property and the broader community.

Learn more

Want to explore more detail about how your rates are allocated?

• View our Annual Budget
• Read about our Corporate Plan
• Explore our Current Major Projects
• See current and upcoming Works in Progress in your area

Together, we’re building a stronger Cairns.