Your rates are based on property valuations

East Gippsland Shire Council have recently issued the 2020/21 Valuation and Rate Notices.

Council, in recognition of the financial impact of the 2019/20 bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic, adopted a zero increase in rates and municipal charges to be raised for this financial year. However, this does not mean everyone’s rates will stay the same. Ratepayers may see a change (decrease or increase) in the rates raised for their individual property and this will depend largely on their property valuation, which is determined independently of Council by the Valuer-General Victoria.

Rates are based on the capital improved value (CIV) of each property calculated by the rate in the dollar (set each year by Council as part of the annual budget) together with a fixed component being the Municipal Charge.

Council uses a differential rating system and the differential rating system means there is a different rate in the dollar for different property types or categories (residential, commercial/industrial or farm).

Council offers a range of rate payment options. Visit our website, refer to the reverse side of your rate notice or call us for more details. If you choose to pay by instalments, the first instalment is due by 30 September.

Acting Chief Executive Officer Ms Fiona Weigall said rate notices are issued by the ratepayer’s chosen method of delivery: electronic through BPay View, email and standard postal mail delivery.

“Included with the rate notice this year is a hard waste voucher, a Raymond Island ferry pass and the rates information brochure. Details on what the vouchers can be used for is listed on the voucher,” Ms Weigall said.

“The rates brochure includes frequently asked questions, payment options and methods, and a breakdown on how rate revenue is used to deliver services and infrastructure across the municipality,” she said.

“Anyone who considers that they might find it difficult to pay their rates by the due date is encouraged to contact us to discuss alternative payment arrangements. There are several ways we may be able to assist, including an arrangement to pay that is tailored to your situation, however it is important you contact us and have a discussion.”

If you have not received your notice please contact us for a copy, at no charge.

Objecting to your valuation:

Ratepayers have the right to object to the property valuations or the Australian Valuation Property Classification Code (AVPCC) as shown on their notice. Valuation objections must be received by 4 November. Ratepayers who wish to object, need to contact Council to discuss their concerns and get the appropriate form.

Requesting a review of your rating classification:

Ratepayers can request a review of the rating classification as shown on their notice.

Farmers should pay attention to the rating classification to ensure the reduced farm rate differential has been applied. Farm rate application forms are available on Council’s website. Applications must be received by 31 December.

Farmers who have more than one farming property may also be entitled to exemptions from some charges. These ratepayers should contact Council to ensure that they are achieving all their entitlements.

Applications for Single Farming Enterprise exemptions must be received by 31 December.

Payment arrangements:

Council understands that ratepayers may experience periods of financial hardship due to circumstances beyond their control. Council officers are committed to working with ratepayers to put a plan in place for paying any overdue amounts. The important first step is contacting Council as soon as possible.

Anyone experiencing financial hardship can apply for assistance that may result in a waiver of interest charges, to assist in reducing their rates debt.

This is particularly important as interest is applied to unpaid rates and charges. Interest is calculated daily and is currently charged at 10 per cent.  Payments made after the due date, including late instalment payments, will incur interest on the outstanding amount, from the date the payment was due.

Council has customer service centres in Bairnsdale, Lakes Entrance, Mallacoota, Omeo, Orbost and Paynesville. The opening hours of these offices will vary depending on COVID-19 restrictions, however contact by telephone on (03) 5153 9500 is available Monday to Friday between 8.30am and 5.00pm.

More information on the 2020-21 Valuation and Rate Notice is also available on the ‘Rates and Valuations’ page of Council’s website.