Albury residents could face one of the largest council rate increases in New South Wales in recent years, with councillors voting to seek community feedback on a proposed hike of up to 42 per cent over two years. The move aims to address a significant financial shortfall, as reported by the ABC on June 16, 2026.
The proposed increase, which would be phased in over two years, is intended to fill a financial hole in the council's budget. Councillors voted to put the plan to the community for consultation before any final decision is made.
If approved, the rate hike would be among the steepest in the state, potentially impacting thousands of households in the border city. The council has not yet specified the exact amount of the shortfall or the breakdown of the increase per year.
Community feedback will be gathered over the coming weeks, with a final vote expected later in the year. The council has emphasized that the increase is necessary to maintain services and infrastructure.
