Rates explained in a new series of engaging videos

The City of Greater Bendigo has launched a series of short engaging videos that address some of the most common questions raised by ratepayers.

Director Corporate Performance Andrew Cooney said the videos were produced to provide an informative guide for ratepayers.

“The seven videos cover a variety of topics, including the different ways to pay rates, how to receive rates either via mail or electronically, and what it means if you receive a supplementary valuation notice,” Mr Cooney said.

“We’ve also explained some of the terms that appear on the rates notice, how to object if you think your rates are too high and how the revenue raised from rates is used across the municipality.”

The engaging videos complement a new-look rates notice which was sent to 60, 000 property owners at the beginning of August. The fresh layout conveys important information in a quick and easy way.

“The rates notices provide essential information for our ratepayers as a result of some feedback from the community on how this can be displayed better. Our new-look notices clearly set out important information and dates at a glance,” Mr Cooney said.

“The front of the rates notice includes the various payment options, important due dates, valuation information, the Victorian Fire Services Levy and waste charges. The reverse side of the notice provides plenty of information, such as how to sign up for SMS reminders, pension concessions and more details on when and how to pay.”  

Payment options include:

Option One - Pay in full by February 17, 2020 Option Two - Pay in full early by September 30, 2019 to receive a 1.5 per cent discount (any arrears owing needs to be paid at the same time to be eligible for the discount) Option Three – Pay four instalments. To qualify for instalments, the first instalment needs to be paid in full by September 30, 2019  

“Fortnightly and monthly payments are a great way to manage your rates. Direct debit is available for all payment options, including fortnightly and monthly.

“Some people may not be aware that the City can help ratepayers who want to manage their rates better by making smaller payments rather than trying to find the full amount when it’s due.

“If you think that making regular smaller payments works better for you, please contact our Customer Support team to set up an approved regular payment schedule that will keep your rates on track so that they are paid off in time.

“I encourage ratepayers to visit our website for more detailed information and to check out these useful new videos.”

To view the videos and to find more rates information, please visit http://www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/Payments/Rates-and-your-Property/Pay-Your-Rates