FAQs

Ideally you will balance the budget, because the City cannot embark on a budget in deficit for reasons of economic stability. We understand it's a complex process, so if you're having trouble delivering a balanced or surplus budget, try and ensure the deficit is very small (i.e. $100,000 or less).

The City is keen to make the budgeting process as accessible as possible for everyone. The financial realities of producing a budget are sometimes difficult to communicate to a wide audience, and can get quite technical and specialised. 

By using this tool, we hope to provide clear context to improve understanding, while still letting the community know about the different constraints that are in place when decision makers finalise budgets. 

We estimate about 15 minutes, but ultimately that's up to you. 

Take your time and think about what's important to you, and how you think the City can deliver a budget that is balanced, and offers something to the community as a whole.