FAQs

Acknowledging the cost of living pressures faced by households and businesses, we propose an average rate increase of 2% above annual CPI (3.4%), which will represent an average dollar increase of $106 per ratepayer.

The proposed increase is earmarked for asset renewal and will focus on:

• Asset maintenance and upgrades to existing assets. This includes repairing roads, upgrading playgrounds, and community facilities.
• Infrastructure renewal. As assets age, they require renewal. Whether it's replacing aging water pipes or upgrading electrical systems, these investments are essential to prevent costly failures and disruptions.
• Long-term viability of our community. By investing in asset renewal, we protect our community's well-being and enhance community pride.

The amount of rates payable per property is determined by four factors: 

• valuation type (GRV or UV) 
• property valuation 
• differential rate category 
• rate in the dollar or minimum payment 

A GRV or UV valuation type is applied to land predominantly used for non-rural purposes and rural purposes respectively. 

Valuations are provided by the Valuer General in accordance with the Valuation of Land Act 1978 and are revalued regularly (usually every four years for GRV and annually for UV). Such revaluations will apply effective from 1 July 2024. 

General Rate 

Council sets arate in the dollar as part of its annual budget process which is then multiplied by a property's valuation to determine the amount you pay in rates each year. 

Minimum Payment

Each differential rate category has a minimum payment that is applied to ensure those properties not subject to a rate in the dollar calculation make a fair and equitable contribution to the Shire's rate revenue. A minimum payment is levied when the calculated rate is equal to or less than the minimum payment amount for the relevant rate category. 

To calculate your rates, multiply either your GRV or UV, depending on your property by the rate in the dollar of the respective rate category. 

For example: if your property is valued at $70,000 and the 'rate in the dollar' for the relevant rating category is 10c, we will multiply the value ($70,000) by the rate in the dollar (10c) and the result will be the rate amount ($70,000 x 10c = $7,000 rates).