Brisbane's New Budget: Enhancing Value Amid Rising Costs

Brisbane's 2025-2026 Budget Overview

As households in Brisbane grapple with the persistent pressure of rising living costs, the city’s leadership has unveiled a responsive Budget aimed at alleviating financial strains for residents. In his address, Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner emphasized the commitment to providing the cheapest rates in South East Queensland, a strategic move designed to deliver both value and relief to the community.

Focus on Subsidiaries and Infrastructure

The Budget underscores significant investments in public transport, highlighting a record subsidy that will continue to enhance the urban mobility landscape. Among the critical components of this public transport initiative are the Brisbane Metro system and the rollout of Brisbane's New Bus Network, expected to add over 160,000 bus services annually. These measures are set against the backdrop of a growing city, ensuring that Brisbane remains accessible and connected.

Community Enrichment Initiatives

Continuing its momentum towards sustainability and community engagement, the Budget allocates funds for the citywide implementation of green waste recycling bins. This will cater to every eligible household, promoting environmental responsibility. Additionally, a $1.9 million investment in a two-year tree planting program—specifically under the Olympic Corridors initiative—highlights the city’s desire to maintain its greenery in anticipation of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Addressing Local Needs

The Budget also contains measures aimed directly at promoting social welfare, including a noteworthy $500,000 donation to assist the Emmanuel City Mission in establishing a 24/7 homeless shelter in West End. Such efforts reflect a commitment to the welfare of all residents, fostering a comprehensive support environment.

• Rate Adjustments: Brisbane owner-occupied households will notice a modest increase of just $1.14 per week, translating to an average increase of 3.87%. This remains significantly lower compared to other councils in the region.


• Pensioner Support: The city retains the most generous pensioner rates rebate in the area, increasing by $50 to reach $1,298 per year.


• Discounts for Timely Payments: A $60 discount for on-time rates payments will persist, having saved residents over $16 million in the previous year.

Long-term Vision

The overarching theme of this $3.49 billion Budget is the Suburbs-First Guarantee, pledging 85% of expenditures to enhance suburban living. The Lord Mayor remarked on the necessity of spending wisely to avoid passing undue financial burdens onto residents, not just now but for future generations.

Brisbane: A Growing Destination

As Brisbane matures into one of Australia’s fastest-growing cities, its appeal as a premier lifestyle destination is set to capture even more international interest. With the Olympic Games on the horizon in seven years, the timing is ripe for forward-thinking investments and the continued transformation of local infrastructure.

This Budget not only reflects a commitment to immediate needs but also outlines a pathway for Brisbane's future, promising to uphold the lifestyle that residents cherish. As the city rides a wave of popularity, stakeholders remain poised to leverage this momentum for further growth and enhancement.