Job Cuts and Service Reductions Proposed
Kiama Council is set to vote on its proposed 2026-27 budget that threatens significant job losses and cuts to essential community services. This development has sparked outrage from the community and the United Services Union (USU), which represents council workers. The draft budget suggests closing or selling youth services, the Community Recycling Centre, and the Visitor Information Centre, while waste services might be outsourced. These proposals come despite Kiama having significantly lower rates than neighbouring councils such as Shellharbour, even though property values in Kiama are substantially higher.
Stuart Geddes, Acting Southern Manager and Industrial Officer for the USU, criticised the budget, asserting, “Instead of taking a balanced approach by reviewing both services and rates while developing a sustainable forward plan, Council appears intent on throwing the baby out with the bathwater.” The USU warns that these actions could lead to long-term financial impacts and degrade the quality of community services that residents have relied upon for years.
Community Outrage and Political Dissonance
Labour Councillor Stuart Larkins has controversially backed the cuts, contradicting NSW Labor’s platform against austerity and privatisation. This stance added to the community’s frustration, as residents expect their representatives to protect local jobs and services during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. The proposed budget cuts could result in job losses for long-serving local workers, many of whom have lived in the Kiama LGA for over a decade and are already struggling.
These proposals are part of the Council’s efforts to meet a Performance Improvement Order requiring a balanced budget by 2026/27. However, Mr. Geddes argues that contracting out services will cost ratepayers more in the long term, opposing the intended financial savings. Tonight’s vote will not only decide the immediate future of the budget but will also place it on public exhibition for 28 days, allowing further community input and opposition. A community protest is planned at 4pm today ahead of the meeting.
As the community prepares to voice its concerns, the USU promises continued support for its members and residents. “The USU will continue to stand with our members and the Kiama community against these short-sighted cuts. We urge councillors to pursue a measured path that protects both jobs and the services residents value,” Mr. Geddes concluded.
Last updated: 29 June 2026, 12:33 pm
