Central Goldfields Shire Faces Backlash Over Plan to Axe Three Waste Stations

Central Goldfields Shire Council faces fury over plans to close waste stations in Bealiba, Dunolly, and Talbot amid a $11m budget shortfall and fuel crisis.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 3, 2026, 4:40 AM EDT

Source: news.com.au

Budget Crisis Forces Drastic Cuts

The Central Goldfields Shire Council, located between Ballarat and Bendigo, is grappling with severe financial pressures that have led to a radical draft budget for the 2026/27 period. Council Chief Executive Peter Harriott stated that the measures are necessary to counter low revenue growth, state-imposed rate capping, and rising expenses that have accumulated well beyond the council's control.

The shire is currently projecting an $11 million shortfall over the next four years. To bridge this gap, the council aims to save $3.2 million in 2027 alone. Key proposals in the draft budget include:

Closing waste transfer stations in Bealiba, Dunolly, and Talbot.

Reducing labor costs across council operations.

Cutting the Community Grants Program.