First half-yearly rates notices issued

Council’s general rates notices for the first half of the financial year have been issued.

From sporting facilities to library programs, roads to rubbish, parks to animal management, general rates help council cover the costs of the 60-plus core services it provides to the community.

‘Delivering these services across the region requires a large workforce, some 437 at the last headcount, and the reliable maintenance of our $1.6 billion asset pool,’ Mayor Kerry Hayes said.

‘To do this, each year council sets a budget that carefully balances the expectations of our communities against our fiscal responsibility.

‘Setting fair and reasonable rates is one of the challenges in developing a budget, particularly as we adapt to the changing economic conditions that now prevail – high inflation, rising interest rates, supply chain disruptions and significant price increases for goods and services.’

To achieve an equitable contribution to council’s rate base, Mayor Hayes explained that residential, commercial and rural rates had increased by 3% and properties in the resources sector by 4% for 2022-2023.

‘We understand it’s never nice to see a bill balance go up, so we have worked really hard to keep these increases as low as we possibly can,’ Mayor Hayes said.

‘These rate increases are below CPI – the Brisbane March quarter for 2022 was 6%. They are also at the lower end of the spectrum in comparison to other local government rate increases which have ranged from 2.5% to 10%.’

Payment of the general rates notices will be due by 5.00 pm on 22 September 2022, with those who pay in full on time receiving a 5% discount.

If you are finding it difficult to pay your account, there are several concessions and payment options available, including:

‘Each ratepayer’s situation is completely unique, so everyone will see different changes to their bills,’ Mayor Hayes said.

‘Should you have any questions or wish to discuss your payment options please contact council on 1300 242 686.’

For answers to some frequently asked questions about rates, head here.