The council's communications manager, Paul Dunlop, said record growth in the area, with an average of four families moving into the shire each week, is keeping the council budget afloat.

"The first-home buyers grant has meant many families are choosing Cardinia Shire and really it's still go, go, go for the council."

Mr Dunlop said council was still finalising its draft budget with an emphasis on maintaining services in the shire.

"The council will be looking to tighten up, or really balance the budget, so there won't be any big spending sprees and no major rate rise."

Mr Dunlop said the council was mindful that people were being affected by the global recession and would look at offering rates rebates or discounts to some residents.

"We are in an interesting position, because growth in Cardinia Shire is continuing at a fast pace.

"There is a need to continue to expand services to cope with the growth demand and no doubt the budget will reflect this."

Mr Dunlop said although rates would more than likely be raised slightly, there would be no major rate hike and no cuts to services in the shire.

The council will release its draft budget for 2009-10 in the coming weeks.