Rate Rise Capped – Concern over cost-of -living expenses
Published on 28 June 2023
The Moira Shire Council today capped the shire’s rates at 3.5 per cent in line with the State government’s recommendation and concerns about the cost-of-living pressures on residents.
The Council has also maintained the government’s municipal rates concession for eligible pensioners. Eligible pensioners may be entitled to a reduction of up to 50 per cent of the municipal rates, with a maximum concession of $253.20.
The Chief Administrator John Tanner AM said the Council sought to strike a “fair balance” with the budget given the poor economic outlook for the nation, rising inflation and the need to ensure Council services are maintained in line with community expectations.
“Residents are feeling the pinch with mortgage rises, gas and electricity increases and the general cost of living,” said Mr. Tanner. “The Council is also facing rising expenses.
“Our decision has not been made lightly. It has been made after our community feedback sessions and careful consideration of various factors affecting our ratepayers, the Council’s budgetary pressures and its ability to deliver quality services to our residents.”
The community consultation sessions were held between 27 April and 17 May this year in Nathalia, Numurkah, Yarrawonga and Cobram.
“In recent years, the rising costs of essential resources and services have presented significant challenges for the Council,” said Mr. Tanner.
“We anticipate these pressures will extend to future years, placing greater emphasis on longer-term financial planning to ensure the Council’s financial sustainability.
“To address these pressures and maintain the level of service our residents expect, it has become necessary to implement this rate increase which is in line with the Minister for Local Government’s 3.5 percent rate cap.
“This is consistent with a number of other local Councils, and below some of our Councils in neighbouring NSW.
“The additional revenue generated through this rise will enable us to invest in infrastructure, road maintenance, improved drainage, support for the operations and maintenance of pool and recreational facilities and with maintenance of parks and gardens. This is on top of other requirements to ensure the continued provision of reliable, efficient, and innovative services.”
Mr. Tanner said Council understood the community’s concerns regarding the cost of living and were mindful of the potential burden it was having on households and businesses.
“Therefore, we welcome any inquiries from our ratepayers who need assistance in paying their rates,” he added.
Rate notices will be distributed from late July to the Council’s 18,000 ratepayers.
Quarterly payments will be due in September, November, February and May. Lump sum payments must be made by February 2024. There are also 10 monthly direct debit options available. The Council’s revenue team is also available to discuss payment plans with ratepayers, including financial hardship.
“We recognise that the cost of living is a critical factor,” said Mr. Tanner. “We are dedicated to ensuring that our rates remain affordable and competitive while continuing to deliver the reliability that our ratepayers deserve.
“The Panel of Administrators places great importance on responsible financial management by the Council to ensure the funds generated from the rate rise are allocated prudently.”
“We believe that any investments must be crucial for maintaining robust and resilient services that meets the evolving needs of ratepayers.”
Eligible pensioners may be entitled to a reduction of up to 50 per cent of the municipal rates, with a maximum concession of $253.20 in the 2023/24 financial year. A further $50 concession is also granted on the Fire Services Property Levy Fixed Charge. Pension cardholders should contact the Council to discuss eligibility for these concessions.