Shaping Our City’s future: Have your say on the draft Annual Business Plan 2026–2027

The City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters welcomes comments on its draft Annual Business Plan and Budget for the 2025-2026 financial year—an essential part of the Council’s Planning Framework.

Incorporating the Long-term Financial Plan update, the draft Annual Business Plan outlines the key projects, services, and programs that will shape the future of our community, focusing on infrastructure renewal, community wellbeing, sustainability and economic growth.

The draft Annual Business Plan contains a budget with maintenance of infrastructure as a core focus, including the construction and integration of a gymnasium at the Payneham Memorial Swimming Centre (scroll down for information), which is scheduled to open ahead of the summer season.

This project reflects our vision of not only delivering high-quality recreational spaces and infrastructure for residents but a focus on ongoing financial sustainability.

Gym proposal  

The Council is committed to reducing the operational costs associated with community facilities such as the Payneham Memorial Swimming Centre on ratepayers.

To reduce reliance on Council subsidies and enhance the offering at the Payneham Memorial Swimming Centre by providing a full aquatic and fitness service, the Council is proposing to construct a new gym as part of the precinct.

The proposal would see the integration of a gym facility, including a large open gym weights space, flexible programming rooms, lockers, and storage facilities, with round the clock access for members, in addition to access to the Payneham Memorial Swimming Centre during operating hours.

Based on independent financial forecasts and industry feedback, the gym is expected to generate a net financial benefit (operating surplus) to Payneham Memorial Swimming Centre operations over its expected life.

The Plan also prioritises the essential infrastructure that supports daily life in our community. Key investments include:

• Civil infrastructure works $6,635,087 (including roads, footpaths and kerbing)
• Stormwater drainage infrastructure $2,045,500
• Recreation and open space infrastructure $1,592,800 (eg renewal of playgrounds and associated reserve furniture)
• Council-owned building works $2,795,000
• Renewal of other assets such as plant, equipment and library materials $957,583.

Playground upgrades continue with the construction of a new playground at St Peters Child Care Centre & Preschool.

Beyond infrastructure, the draft Annual Business Plan & Budget outlines a range of initiatives designed to foster community connection and wellbeing.

“While infrastructure remains a core focus of the proposed budget, the Council has also given considerable attention over past months to ensure its ongoing financial sustainability, which includes identifying different rate revenue streams,” says Mayor Robert Bria.

“Community feedback plays a vital role in shaping the final Annual Business Plan and Budget. We encourage all residents, business owners, and ratepayers to review the draft Plan and share their comments.”

Have your say

• Online: Complete the online comments form or download a form to submit in person.
• In person: View a hard copy at Norwood Town Hall or any of our three libraries.
• By post or email: Send written feedback by 5pm, Sunday 31 May 2026.
• Public meeting: Make a representation directly to the Council at Norwood Town Hall on Tuesday 26 May, from 7pm–8pm.

Together, let’s build a City that reflects the needs and aspirations of our community—now and into the future.

To review the draft Annual Business Plan and have your say, visit: Have Your Say