Cairns ratepayers continue to get value for money

Cairns ratepayers continue to pay some of the lowest rates and utilities in the state according to Council’s annual rates benchmarking report.

Council compared its rates and utilities charges to the 12 local government areas (LGAs) in Queensland with a population of more than 100,000 people, and our nearest neighbours.

In Cairns, a typical rates notice includes four separate charges: general rates, water access charge, sewerage connection charge and cleansing charge (waste collection and management). Residents also receive separate water usage bills.

Other Councils present their rates and utility charges separately, or in some cases, water charges are billed by a different provider.

To ensure a fair comparison, the report combines all rates and charges applicable to the local government area, irrespective of which body issues the bill.

Looking at the median valuation residential property in each LGA, Cairns continues to have the lowest annual charge, 5% below Townsville, 12% less than Brisbane and 24% below the Gold Coast.

For the minimum valuation residential property and the minimum valuation strata dwelling, only Townsville rates and utilities are less, by 2% in each category.

Mayor Amy Eden said the benchmarking exercise confirms Cairns is an enviable place to live and do business.

“Whether it’s borrowing a book at a library, enjoying a family bike ride along the foreshore, or the basics of knowing the toilet will flush and rubbish will be collected on time, Council is committed to delivering value for money for our residents,” Cr Eden said.

“To come out ahead of every large council in Queensland in the median residential market, and only just behind Townsville in the remaining two categories, shows we are budgeting responsibly for today while securing the quality of life we expect into the future.

“We are all feeling the impact of cost-of-living pressures which is why Council’s 2024/25 budget is focused on the little things that make a big difference – such as increasing funding for new footpaths and the budget to keep our parks and open spaces at their best.”

Median valuation residential Queensland councils with more than 100,000 people

Minimum valuation residential Queensland councils with more than 100,000 people

Minimum valuation strata Queensland councils with more than 100,000 people