Reduced Rate in the Dollar Proposed to Offset Increased GRVs
At next week’s Council meeting, Council will be asked to consider measures to keep rates affordable for the community
State legislation (Local Government Act and the Valuation of Land Act) states that rates must be calculated using property valuations set by Landgate, multiplied by a ‘rate in the dollar’ set by Council.
With an average 31% increase to the gross rental values (GRV) of non-rural properties across the shire coming into effect from 1 July 2025, Council is being asked to consider reducing the rates in dollar downward to ease the impact on ratepayers while ensuring the Shire can continue to fund essential services amidst rising costs.
Shire CEO Andrea Selvey said while additional rates revenue is needed, the Shire has worked to keep the proposed increase for rate payers as modest as possible.
“Like many organisations across Australia, the Shire faces rising operational costs which means we need to increase our total rate revenue by a minimum of 4.9% in 2025-26,” Ms Selvey said.
“Rather than passing on the full GRV increases, Shire Officers are recommending that Council reduce the rate in the dollar to minimise the impact to our ratepayers.”
“For the average residential household, the increase in rates will be around $2.83 a week, or $148 a year, although it will depend on how much their individual property valuation has changed.”
Council will also be asked to consider a new rating structure following a comprehensive rates review last year, which included advice from external rates specialists.
“We’re proposing to reduce the number of rating categories and change some of the minimum payments in line with the State government legislation and guidelines,” Ms Selvey said.
“The new structure is designed to be simpler and fairer for all property owners and businesses, and will be introduced in two stages, starting in 2025-26.”
Ms Selvey also reiterated the need for the State and Federal Government to revise its funding models to make a bigger investment in our shire given its increasing popularity as a tourism destination.
“Tourism is a vital part of our local and state economy, and we’re proud to welcome visitors who enjoy the unique experiences our region has to offer,” she said.
“However, current the State and Federal funding models are based solely on permanent population and don’t consider the significant extra demand high visitor numbers place on our infrastructure and services.
“As part of our ongoing advocacy efforts, we’re urging the State and Federal Government to review these models to ensure we can continue to provide quality facilities for both residents and visitors, and support our growing role as a destination of choice.”
Before finalising the 2025–26 rates, Council will invite community feedback during a public consultation period starting 29 May 2025. Residents will also have the opportunity to discuss proposed rates with Shire Officers at a community Q&A session on Wednesday 4 June from 4.30pm to 6.30pm in Council Chambers.