Brisbane City Council has handed down its 2026-27 Budget, outlining a mix of cost-of-living relief measures and local infrastructure projects that will impact residents across Sandgate, Brighton and surrounding suburbs.
The $3.9 billion budget includes a range of initiatives aimed at helping households manage rising living costs. For owner-occupiers, minimum general rates will increase by 3.97 per cent, which Council says is below forecast inflation. Residents will also continue to receive a $60 annual discount for paying rates on time, while pensioners will benefit from an increased rates rebate.
Other cost-saving measures include the removal of credit and debit card surcharges for Council payments, the return of the popular $2 Summer Dips pool program, free off-peak public transport for eligible seniors, free waste vouchers, free native plants and the continuation of Brisbane’s annual kerbside collection service.
Local Projects and Infrastructure Improvements
Closer to home, the budget includes several projects for the Sandgate and Brighton area. Work will continue on the Brighton Foreshore upgrade, including new picnic facilities, improved pathways and better beach access. Planning will also begin for additional picnic facilities and park improvements at Sandgate Foreshores Park.
Other local projects include lighting upgrades at Barlow Place Park in Boondall, design and construction work for a bridge replacement at Donna Philp Park in Bracken Ridge, and weeding and replanting at Cabbage Tree Creek.
Road resurfacing is planned for Murphy Road in Zillmere, Odare Street in Brighton, Scott Street in Deagon, and roads in Bracken Ridge and Fitzgibbon. Drainage improvements are planned for Sunday Street in Shorncliffe.
Learn more about the Brisbane Budget 2026-27.
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