Why sustainability advocates should be budget savvy: The power of reading Local Government budgets

If you're passionate about sustainability, you might be focused on reducing your carbon footprint, supporting eco-friendly businesses, or advocating for environmental policies. But there's another crucial aspect of sustainability that often goes overlooked: understanding and engaging with government budgets. Today, we'll explore why reading budgets is essential for anyone who cares about creating a sustainable future, with a focus on local government budgets here in Victoria, Australia as an example.

Why Budgets Matter for Sustainability

1. Follow the Money: Budgets show where priorities lie. By reading budgets, you can see how much funding is allocated to sustainability initiatives, renewable energy projects, or environmental conservation.

2. Hold Politicians Accountable: Knowledge is power. When you understand the budget, you can effectively question local politicians about their spending decisions and advocate for more sustainability-focused allocations.

3. Identify Opportunities: Budgets can reveal gaps in funding for important sustainability projects. This knowledge allows you to advocate for increased spending in these areas.

4. Understand Trade-offs: Sustainability often requires balancing different priorities. Reading budgets helps you understand the complex decisions local governments face and propose informed solutions.

The Local Government Budget Process: A Victorian Example

To illustrate the importance of budget literacy, let's look at how local government budgets work in Victoria, Australia:

1. Common Framework: Victoria has a legislated framework that all councils must follow when setting their budgets. This standardisation makes it easier for citizens to understand and compare budgets across different local governments.

2. Transparency: The budget-setting process is designed to be open and transparent, actively seeking community input before adoption. This is your opportunity to have a say!

3. Strategic Alignment: The budget shows how a council plans to achieve the key strategic objectives outlined in its Council Plan for the coming year. It's a roadmap of their priorities and actions.

4. Comprehensive Coverage: A council budget includes:

   • Annual maintenance, upgrades, and renewal of assets

   • New or replacement infrastructure

   • Community services and facilities to be provided

   • Associated costs for all of the above

5. Revenue Sources: The budget also estimates revenue from various sources, including fees, charges, and government funding. This helps determine the amount needed to be collected in rates or if additional revenue streams should be considered.

6. Public Comment Period: Each council must adopt a draft budget, which is then open for public comment for at least 28 days. This is your chance to provide feedback and advocate for sustainability initiatives.

7. Timelines: All councils must adopt their budget by June 30 each year (unless otherwise specified by the Minister) and submit a copy to the Minister within 28 days of adoption.

How to Become Budget Savvy

1. Mark Your Calendar: Note when your local council typically releases its draft budget and when the public comment period begins.

2. Read the Draft: When the draft budget is released, take the time to read through it. Pay special attention to sections related to sustainability, environmental initiatives, and infrastructure projects.

3. Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to reach out to your local council members or attend budget information sessions to ask questions about specific allocations or the lack thereof.

4. Make Submissions: During the public comment period, make a submission advocating for increased funding for sustainability initiatives. Be specific and provide evidence to support your requests. If you need help utilise existing resources such at the Local Government Climate Emergency Toolkit for metrics and ideas.

5. Collaborate: Connect with local sustainability groups to share insights and coordinate your advocacy efforts. A united voice can be more effective in influencing budget decisions.

6. Follow Up: After the budget is adopted, keep track of how the allocated funds are being used. This information will be valuable for your advocacy efforts in the next budget cycle.

Conclusion

Reading and engaging with local government budgets might not be as exciting as planting trees or installing solar panels, but it's an equally important part of creating a sustainable future. By understanding where public funds are being allocated, you can more effectively advocate for sustainability initiatives and hold your local government accountable.

Remember, sustainability isn't just about individual actions—it's about systemic change. And one of the most powerful ways to effect that change is by influencing how public money is spent. So, the next time your local council releases its draft budget, get invloved. Your informed advocacy could make a real difference in your community's sustainable future.