Council expresses disappointment with the 2026–27 NSW Budget

PORT Macquarie-Hastings Council remains focused on delivering more than $200 million in infrastructure projects after adopting its operational plan, despite missing out on funding for several key priorities in the 2026–27 NSW Budget.

General manager Robert Fish said council’s recently adopted budget included one of the largest capital works programs ever undertaken by the organisation.

“Our budget included a capital works program of more than $200 million, representing one of the largest infrastructure delivery programs ever undertaken by council and that is our focus,” Mr Fish said.

“Our focus remains on delivering for the community and the projects needed for our region’s growing population.”

While council welcomed several NSW Budget measures, including cost-of-living relief, continued funding for the redevelopment of Port Macquarie Base Hospital, and the new Tacking Point public preschool, it expressed disappointment that major local infrastructure projects were overlooked.

Mayor Adam Roberts said the Budget included welcome reductions in annual vehicle registration costs, with motorists to save $100 and motorcycle owners to save $80.

“I’ll take the time to fully understand the detail of the budget allocations, which will include reaching out to the appropriate State MPs and Ministers, before providing a more comprehensive response in the coming days,” Cr Roberts said.

“However, in the short term, the cost-of-living support measures for all people living in NSW and the continued support of the Port Macquarie Base Hospital upgrade and the new preschool for Tacking Point are all very much welcomed.”

Council said it would continue advocating for funding for upgrades to the Oxley Highway, the Wrights Road and Lake Road intersections, and major water and wastewater projects at Cowarra and Thrumster.