Ratepayers face 9.5% overdue interest as Central Coast adopts 2026 - 27 budget package

Central Coast ratepayers will face a maximum 9.5% interest charge on overdue accounts in 2026 - 27, while eligible pensioners can claim rebates of up to $250 on ordinary rates and domestic waste charges.

Central Coast Council adopted its Delivery Program 2025 - 2029, Operational Plan 2026 - 27, Fees and Charges 2026 - 27 and Long Term Financial Plan 2026 - 2036 on Monday. The package also authorises the chief executive officer to make minor legislative or administrative changes.

The community halls directorate must achieve at least $50,000 in efficiencies in 2026 - 27 and beyond. The budget also includes an annual $100,000 saving through more efficient disposal of mattresses and similar items.

Eligible pensioners can receive rebates of up to $87.50 each on water and sewerage charges. Council made and fixed the ordinary and special rates, domestic waste, waste management, wastewater, water and drainage charges for the financial year. The supplied decision does not state the dollar amount or percentage change for individual household charges.

Funding priorities also changed. The 2026 - 27 Tuggerah Lakes Dredging Program allocation was deferred and redirected to establish The Entrance Town Centre Reactivation Taskforce, including possible engagement of Renew Australia or another qualified place-activation organisation.

Council directed a further $200,000 to the Heritage Small Grants Program. The budget also includes $650,000 to reconstruct public toilets at Mangrove Mountain and increases the St Huberts Island internal restriction allocation from $35,000 to $70,000 for canal and island maintenance.

The adopted package sets Central Coast service priorities for the year. Several related policies and notices of motion, including matters covering Woy Woy shared-path access and Tuggerah Lake entrance management, were deferred to the 28 July 2026 council meeting.