Your rates help fund the essential services you rely on every day, as well as the facilities and projects that make Cockburn a safe, connected and thriving community.
Even if you don’t use every service yourself, your contribution ensures that everyone benefits from clean streets, well-maintained parks, safe roads, and strong community programs.
Everyday services and facilities
Your rates support a wide range of services across Cockburn, including:
- Waste and recycling services - weekly collections, verge collections and recycling facilities
- Roads and footpaths - upgrades, resurfacing and maintenance to keep the community safe and connected
- Parks, reserves and natural areas - maintenance of playgrounds, ovals, sporting fields, bushland, beaches and lakes
- Libraries and community centres - services, events and programs for children, young people, seniors and families
- Recreation and leisure - support for local sporting clubs, recreation centres, public art and community events
- Health and safety - food safety inspections, noise and dust monitoring, and managing contaminated sites
- Community support - funding for grants, donations and services to help those who need extra support.
How rates benefit the community
Rates make sure everyone has access to safe, reliable and inclusive services.
They help ensure that:
- Roads and paths are well maintained for all residents
- Green spaces and community facilities are available for sport, play and leisure
- Waste and recycling are managed responsibly
- Libraries, events and programs bring people together
- Environmental areas are protected for future generations.
Budget highlights
Each year the City adopts a budget, which outlines how rates are allocated. The 2025-26 Budget continues the focus on low rate increases, careful cost control and value for money.
This year, your rates are helping to fund:
- Playground renewals and upgrades across several suburbs
- Road resurfacing and traffic safety improvements
- Beale Park redevelopment
- Environmental upgrades and foreshore works
- Community facility improvements and ongoing maintenance.
For more information, you can read the full City of Cockburn Budget 2025-26.
Frequently asked questions