AlburyCity Mayor Outlines Budget Priorities as Border Councils Meet

Regional Focus Shifts to Budget Planning and Infrastructure

Monday, 23 March 2026, marks a significant day for local governance in the Albury-Wodonga region. As the 2026/27 financial year approaches, AlburyCity Mayor Kevin Mack has released a comprehensive update regarding the city's upcoming budget and the results of a critical community feedback initiative. Meanwhile, across the border, the Wodonga Council is convening for its scheduled session to address shared regional objectives under the 'Two Cities One Community' partnership.

Mayor Mack Reveals Community Survey Results

In a message delivered today, Mayor Kevin Mack highlighted the findings of a recent 'micro mix' survey conducted to gauge community sentiment on local spending. The survey results are set to play a pivotal role in the budget discussions currently being formulated by the AlburyCity Council. According to the Mayor, the data indicates that residents remain focused on the fundamental services that maintain the city's aesthetic and functional appeal.

• Infrastructure Maintenance: A high priority has been placed on the upkeep of local roads and footpaths.
• Green Spaces: Continued investment in the city’s parks and gardens remains a top concern for Albury residents.
• Sporting Facilities: The community has expressed a strong desire for the ongoing maintenance and development of local sporting fields.

Mayor Mack emphasized that the council is listening to these priorities, stating that the upcoming budget will aim to protect the integrity of the city’s environment and recreational assets. The Mayor also noted that the final budget discussions would be held in the coming weeks, with the public invited to view the business papers and provide further input.

Regional Collaboration and Federal Context

While Albury focuses on its internal budget, the Wodonga Council is holding a formal meeting this evening, Monday, 23 March 2026. The agenda for the Wodonga session includes items that often overlap with Albury’s interests, particularly those involving the regional hospital redevelopment and cross-border transport projects. This meeting follows a period of heightened political activity in the region, sparked by recent federal attention ahead of the 2026 Farrer by-election.

Ongoing discussions regarding the Albury Hospital redevelopment continue to dominate the political landscape. Both local councils have been advocating for increased Commonwealth support to ensure the facility can meet the growing demands of the border population. Today’s activities underscore a busy period for local representatives as they balance day-to-day municipal management with long-term strategic advocacy for the Albury-Wodonga region.