Central Coast residents will see changes to their council bills from 1 July 2026 after the Central Coast Council formally adopted its 2026–27 Operational Plan and Budget.

Under the new budget, general rates will increase by 3.2 per cent. When the transfer of the stormwater drainage charge from water and sewer bills to rates is included, the overall increase in rates is approximately 12.8 per cent. However, council says higher water charges are partly offset because the separate drainage charge has been removed from water bills, meaning the combined increase in rates and water and sewer costs for most households will generally be around 4–5 per cent. Average council fees and charges will also rise by 5.2 per cent.

The budget maintains a strong focus on infrastructure, with a $348.9 million capital works program. This includes $158.5 million for renewing existing assets, $119 million for major upgrades and $49.4 million for new construction projects across the Central Coast. Roads remain a priority, with $44.6 million allocated for road renewal programs and nearly $20 million for new and upgraded footpaths and shared pathways. Council has also committed additional funding to increase roadside vegetation mowing across the region.

Major projects funded in the budget include upgrades to the Charmhaven Sewage Treatment Plant, replacement of the West Gosford Sewer Rising Main, development of the Colongra Sporting Complex, construction of the Mardi Animal Care Facility, improvements to the Ocean Beach–Rawson Road intersection, continued environmental restoration projects, and funding for future community facilities including a new Toukley Community Centre. Money has also been allocated for Tuggerah Lakes dredging, revitalisation of the former Gosford Library and Azzuro Blu complex, and the purchase of Mac Killop Oval at Kincumber.

Council says the budget has been prepared with affordability in mind while acknowledging ongoing financial pressures caused by inflation, rising fuel prices and higher construction costs. To help manage those risks, it has set aside a $22 million contingency fund within its capital works program. Chief Executive David Farmer said the contingency would allow essential infrastructure projects to continue even if costs increase during the year.

Eligible pensioners will continue to receive mandatory rebates on ordinary rates, domestic waste charges, water and sewer services. Council has also removed Australia Post as a payment option for rates notices to reduce operating costs, while Sunday operating hours at waste recycling centres will be shortened as part of ongoing savings measures. Some community grant programs have also received modest funding reductions.

Council expects to deliver another balanced budget, although it acknowledged the operating surplus remains very small, leaving limited room to absorb unexpected financial shocks. Officials say the plan focuses on maintaining essential services while continuing to invest in roads, parks, environmental projects and community infrastructure to meet the needs of the Central Coast's growing population.