The Andrews Labor Government is ensuring councils can continue to focus on delivering for the communities they represent by extending the deadline for council budgets and annual reports.

Local Government Minister Adem Somyurek has announced an extended deadline for 2020/21 Council budgets until 31 August and for annual reports to 30 November.

Councils are usually required to adopt their budgets by 30 June and to submit an annual report by 30 September each year.

Councils continue to be required to give public notice and hear public submissions before adopting budgets or submitting an annual report.

The extensions are open to all councils and Regional Library Corporations should they wish to use them.

The Labor Government is working with Councils and the Municipal Association of Victoria to consider the implications of coronavirus on their operations including the welfare of staff, compliance with the Act, elections and their meetings.