Remote, rural and regional councils across NSW have labelled the Federal Budget’s failure to increase Financial Assistance Grants as a “slap in the face”, warning communities could pay the price through mounting pressure on local services and infrastructure.
Country Mayors Association of NSW (CMA) chairman and Temora Shire mayor Rick Firman said while there were welcome funding announcements in the 2026 Budget, the overall package fell short of what regional councils needed to remain financially sustainable.
“We are extremely disappointed that the Budget has failed to recognise the very real financial challenges that Local . . .
Access to this content is available via a current Coonamble Times subscription.
Purchase single issue downloads of the Coonamble Times online editions for only $2.50 or become a subscriber for full access to online flip-books, archive downloads and the latest local news content.
For free content see our Featured Local News category