Council is seeking feedback on its proposed rates structure for 2026-27.
Council is proposing to retain the current rate structure following input from a Community Reference Panel. The aim is to ensure the way rates are distributed across the Local Government Area is:
- Fair
- Easy to understand
- Reflective of differences in services and communities.
The revenue structure is reviewed each year. This year we formed a community reference panel which was made up of ratepayers from across the LGA from each rating category (farmland, business, residential).
The panel has considered information like:
- The cost and types of services Council provides
- Comparison of rates with other, similar councils
- Capacity to pay
- Changes to property valuations across the local government area
They looked at the principles of equity, clarity, simplicity and efficiency and discussed their different views over several workshops. The notes of the community reference panel, and the full analysis of 8 different structure options are available for download on this page.
Council recognises that there are cases of genuine financial hardship requiring respect and compassion in special circumstances. Council has adopted a Financial Hardship Assistance Policy that aims to provide as much assistance as we can to anyone who needs help. Please contact Council if you would like to discuss your circumstances or complete the financial hardship form on our website.
