Central Coast Council Updates Bring Direct Impacts on Household Costs and Local Planning

Central Coast Council water and sewer rates will increase by 5.5 per cent, or $82, for a typical household in the 2026-27 year, bringing the annual bill to $1,565. This change forms part of a series of council decisions that directly affect household expenses, coastal protection and long-term planning for the area.

Rate Rise and Household Budgets

The increase in water and sewer charges comes into effect for the 2026-27 financial year. Residents will see the higher amount reflected in their bills, requiring adjustments to household budgets for essential services. The council has set the new annual total at $1,565 for a typical property, providing a clear figure for planning purposes.

Governance Milestone Closed

The Performance Improvement Order issued in September 2024 on financial sustainability and governance was officially closed on 12 May 2026. This step marks the formal end of external oversight in those areas and allows council to focus on other priorities without the previous reporting requirements attached to the order.

Economic and Employment Strategies

Council adopted the Economic Development Strategy 2026-30, Destination Management Plan 2026-29 and Events Strategy 2026-30. It also endorsed the Central Coast Employment Lands Strategy for submission to the state. These documents outline directions for business growth, visitor management and employment land use that will guide future development decisions across the region.

Coastal Management and Tree Planting

Council endorsed the Open Coast Coastal Management Program with amendments that strengthen offshore sand nourishment provisions. The program will now be submitted to the NSW Minister for Environment for certification. Separately, council secured $600,000 from the NSW Greening Our City grant to fund street tree planting and vegetation work in Woy Woy, Ettalong and Umina over two-and-a-half years.

Next Steps for Residents

Households can prepare for the updated water and sewer charges when the new financial year begins. The coastal program moves to the state minister for review, while the adopted strategies and endorsed lands plan provide the framework for future council actions on economic and employment matters. The grant-funded planting in Woy Woy, Ettalong and Umina will proceed over the stated two-and-a-half-year period.