Budget lays foundations for Parramatta’s bright future

City of Parramatta will invest more than half a billion dollars in the next 12 months to deliver the services our community needs and continuing bringing its vision for the City’s future to life.

Plans include investment in a new community recycling centre, Finlaysons Creek regional cycleway, numerous local park upgrades and Granville Town Square.

The City’s $535 million budget for 2024/25 includes a $195 million capital works program and factors in a $6 million operating surplus.

City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Pierre Esber said it was important for Council to deliver a balanced budget taking into account the need for investment in the area for local businesses and residents.

“Parramatta is Western Sydney’s only global city by 2050, and this budget continues investing in game-changing projects, including the redevelopment of Riverside Theatres into a world-class performing arts centre that brings Broadway quality shows to our City,” Cr Esber said.

“It also provides for our community’s needs right now, including more places to swim, better sporting facilities, parks and public spaces, improved footpaths and cycleways and a new community recycling centre.

“This budget has been shaped by the community and ensures City of Parramatta is the best place to live, work and run a business.”

Cr Esber said Council’s Delivery Program and Operational Plan included an updated waste strategy and a stronger commitment to reduce Council’s carbon emissions.

“Council is committed to building a sustainable City. That includes rolling out our new Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) service and committing to a 5 per cent reduction in carbon emissions each year, in line with our long-term goal of reducing carbon emissions by 60 per cent by 2038,” Cr Esber said.  

“The plan also relieves the pressure on household budgets by capping domestic waste charges for the next three financial years and providing a one-off $50 rebate for residential ratepayers.”

To ensure Council can deliver on all its programs and services, the recommended 5.1% rate rise by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) will be implemented.   To find out more about City of Parramatta’s updated Delivery Program and Operational Plan for 2022-2026 click here.

Key capital works projects in the year ahead include:

Max Ruddock Reserve Amenities Modernisation with Viewing Platform Lake Parramatta Swimming Area Upgrade Doyle Ground Sports Facility Improvements Rydalmere Foreshore Stage 3 ‘Let’s Play @ Kilpack’ Kilpack Park upgrades, Carlingford Epping Pool redevelopment Finlayson’s Creek Regional Cycleway Duck River Nature Trail Rydalmere Bowling Club refurbishment (transforming into a multi-purpose community facility) Granville Town Square Carter Street Precinct Community Centre