We use land values to distribute rates across the local government area. We do this by using a combination of the land value of the property and a fixed amount per property.
Our Statement of Revenue Policy, which is included in our operational plan, sets the rates and charges we need to fund the services we provide to the community.
A change in land value does not necessarily lead to a similar change in rates.
The amount rates increase each year is restricted. The maximum amount rates can change each year is set by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART). This is called rate pegging.
We must make sure the total income from rates does not grow by above the amount set by IPART, even if land values rise.
Each property falls into one of four categories, depending on its use, for rating purposes:
At any time you can apply to us to have your land category reviewed. To do this you need to complete the 'Change in category of land application for rating purposes' form.
Find more information about land valuation on the NSW Government website.
For detailed tables of base and ad valorem rates for our region see our operational plan.
Under State legislation, some pensioners are eligible for mandatory rebates. A maximum of $250 is available each year on all ordinary rates and domestic waste management charges. People who become, or cease to be, eligible pensioners during the year will receive a concession proportionate to the number of full quarters in which they are an eligible pensioner.
To be eligible:
War Widow Pensioners who do not hold a Pensioner Concession card may be entitled to a concession provided they meet an income and assets test. Click here for more information and to apply.
If you are experiencing difficulty in paying your rates by the due dates contact us on 7955 7777 as soon as possible, preferably before the account becomes overdue. We can discuss alternative payment arrangements that are available to suit your current situation.
Daily interest is usually charged at around 10.5% on all overdue amounts. If you are not under financial hardship and don't make an arrangement or pay by the due date, we may send the debt to a debt collection agency and you may incur legal costs. After five years of non-payment we may sell property by public auction.
Not all properties in our region are connected to the water and sewer service. Those that are receive a separate set of fees and charges, specifically relating to water usage.
Each year the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) sets the maximum amount that councils can increase their overall income from rates. This is called the rate peg. It does not apply to the waste or stormwater parts of your rates bill.
You can read more about how rate pegging works on IPART's website.
If you are the executor of the estate, remaining joint property owner or know someone who has passed away and owns a property in the MidCoast area, click on this information sheet to find out what information needs to be supplied or updated.
Information on land values can be found on the NSW Government Housing and Construction website.
More information on rates and charges can be found on the Office of Local Government website.