FAQ

Differential rates mean there is a different rate for different groups ie: residential, commercial and industrial. The reason for them is so one group isn’t burdened by rate increases more significantly than others.

The rates paid on residential property is calculated based on the potential rental value of the premises and the operating requirements of Council.

The rates you pay are a proportionate share of what is needed by Council to provide local services and facilities.

That is, if your home has greater potential rental return than your neighbours, you will pay a higher share of the total rates budgeted by Council.

An increase, decrease or maintain has yet to be determined. This will take place as part of the budgeting process with council and administration. 

Increased cost shifting and legislation from State Government mean increased administration costs for Councils to facilitate the collection of fees for various services and rebates. When the State Government increases the cost of power, water and other utilities, these costs are passed on to you via rate increases.

All Councils also rely on and compete for additional funds from the State and Federal Government through assistance grants and funding bid opportunities. Without these we would not be able to implement large scale infrastructure projects or subsidise health and safety initiatives such as installing CCTV cameras.

Council operates 27 service areas that cover services run from facilities such as the library and leisure centres, as well as community development programs, such as events, public art programs and safety initiatives, and operational services with capital works, maintenance and improvements for roads, footpaths, parks and waste collection, plus building and development compliance, strategic and place planning services, environmental health, animal control, local business support, customer and administration services.