Ambitious million-dollar housing plan prepped for renewable projects part of Shire of Narrogin 2025-26 budget

Extra accommodation and residential land, upgraded facilities and emergency services top Narrogin’s priorities this financial year in preparation for renewable influx, revealed in the shire’s $32.5 million budget. Shire of Narrogin adopted its 2025-26 budget on July 23, forecast to invest $32.5m into the community with their greatest expenditure of $12.5m dedicated to unlocking residential land and support the delivery of key worker accommodation. Bolstered by a $5m Federal Government grant, the housing and land budget responds to the rise in residents and anticipated population and employment surge due to several renewable energy developments. Continuing to address the long-standing housing crisis, $1.9m will fund the building of 18 accommodation units at Narrogin Caravan Park and an extra $630,000 for the acquisition of the heritage RSL building, former school master’s house and Furnival Street residential land. To further contribute to new infrastructure, $3.1m is dedicated to constructing a State Emergency Services and Bush Fire Brigade joint facilities to ensure community safety and encourage new volunteers. Roads also shared the forefront, with $2.3m dedicated to road maintenance and repairs and $687,000 for works on the Tarwonga Bridge. The shire also budgeted $385,000 to reseal 2km of Narrogin Valley Road. Shire president Leigh Ballard said the budget reflects council’s long-term vision and strategic priorities. “This budget is about shaping Narrogin’s future, strengthening our infrastructure, investing in land, housing and safety, and enhancing recreational and cultural spaces that reflect the diversity of our residents,” he said. “We are embracing growth while ensuring every investment supports a more inclusive, connected, and sustainable community. “As the landscape of regional WA shifts, Narrogin is stepping forward with confidence and capability, welcoming the opportunities that new industries, housing demand, and population diversity bring.” While still subject to government funding, $4m will finance the Narrogin Hawks football pavilion redevelopment, $2.8m swimming pool roof purlins, and $285,000 for upgrades Narrogin Speedway Club lighting to elevate the town’s sporting experience. A combined $573,500 will finance Narrogin Town Hall improvements, Goods Shed restoration, John Higgins Centre kitchen redesign and library interactive panel and mobile shelving. The shire’s enhancement of community safety will involve $100,000 for additional CCTV and $98,000 for footpath construction. “We recognise the importance of preparing for what’s ahead, but we must also deliver for today and have done this through successful advocacy to both the Federal and State Labor Governments, to which we are extremely grateful,” Cr Ballard said. “This budget strikes that balance. It’s practical, community-focused, and ensures Narrogin remains a great place to live, work, and invest.” Visit www.narrogin.wa.gov.au for more information on the 2025-26 budget.