At the 15 June 2026 meeting Clarence Councillors adopted the City of Clarence 2026-27 Budget and Annual Plan, setting a clear course for the year ahead with a focus on strengthening community connection, investing in essential infrastructure and preparing for the opportunities and challenges of a growing city.
Mayor Brendan Blomeley said the budget reflected the aspirations of a community that values both progress and the unique lifestyle that makes Clarence such a special place to live.
“Clarence is a city on the move. As one of Tasmania’s fastest-growing municipalities, we have an opportunity to shape a future that builds on our strengths while responding to the needs of a changing community,” Mayor Blomeley said.
“Our community has been clear about what matters most. People value the natural beauty of our city, the strength of our neighbourhoods, opportunities to connect and participate, and the infrastructure and services that support everyday life.
“They want Clarence to continue growing, but to do so thoughtfully, sustainably and in a way that protects the lifestyle and character that make our city unique.
“This budget turns those aspirations into action.”
The 2026-27 Annual Plan outlines 107 priority actions that support the delivery of City of Clarence’s Strategic Plan 2025-2035 and are backed by a capital works program of more than $32 million.
A rate increase of 4.96%, excluding state government levy increases, has been set and was carefully considered to balance affordability with the need to maintain essential services, renew ageing infrastructure and deliver important community projects.
Mayor Blomeley said the budget focused on delivering practical outcomes that improve how people move, connect and experience life across Clarence.
“This year’s budget has been developed against a backdrop of continued population growth, increasing service expectations and rising costs associated with maintaining and renewing community infrastructure,” Mayor Blomeley said.
“It balances the need to maintain the services residents rely on every day while continuing to invest in the infrastructure and facilities required by a growing community.”
Improving connectivity across the city remains a major priority, with almost $15 million allocated to maintaining and improving Clarence’s transport network.
This includes more than $8 million for footpath upgrades and renewals to improve accessibility and support safer movement through neighbourhoods, as well as works associated with the Lindisfarne Ferry Terminal to provide greater transport choice and strengthen connections across the city.
More than $2 million has been allocated to road safety initiatives at locations including Acton Road, Bayview Road, Kennedy Drive and Seven Mile Beach Esplanade, while parking and access improvements are planned for Cambridge Oval, the Clarence Mountain Bike Park and the Rokeby Youth Centre.
Building resilience also remains a key focus, with $3.2 million allocated to stormwater infrastructure improvements, including major upgrades at Anulka Street and Carella Street in Howrah and Fairfield Road in Geilston Bay.
Council will continue investing in opportunities for people to lead active and healthy lifestyles, with more than $2 million allocated to sporting infrastructure improvements at Cambridge Oval, Lauderdale Oval and Rokeby Village Green.
More than $1 million has also been committed to trails, parks and recreation spaces, including projects associated with the Mortimer Bay Coastal Trail and Tangara Trail.
Environmental stewardship remains a priority, with funding allocated to projects within Lauderdale Saltmarsh Reserve and Rosny Parklands, alongside hazard reduction and fire management programs designed to protect both the community and the natural environment.
Several significant community projects will progress during the year ahead, including the $7 million Cambridge precinct development, the $1 million redevelopment of the Rosny Early Learning Centre, upgrades to the Clifton Beach Surf Life Saving Club and improvements to facilities at Bellerive Beach Park.
Mayor Blomeley said the budget represented an investment not only in infrastructure, but in the people and places that define Clarence.
“These are investments in opportunity, safety, inclusion and quality of life,” he said.
“If we want Clarence to remain one of Tasmania’s most liveable and desirable places to call home, we must continue to plan ahead, invest wisely and act with confidence in our future.
“This budget reflects confidence in our community and our shared belief that, together, we can create a city that is connected, vibrant, resilient and full of opportunity.”