Council rates are supplemented by Government grants and fees revenue to cover the cost of supporting the community at a local level.
The Emergency Services Levy (ESL) helps to deliver essential fire and emergency services to keep Western Australian communities safe from natural hazards and emergencies.
To learn more about how your ESL is calculated, including information on the different ESL rates, limits and concessions visit dfes.wa.gov.au/esl
How are my rates calculated?
The Shire applies a rate in the dollar that is multiplied by the valuation to obtain the rate amount for each property. A Gross Rental Valuation (GRV) is applied generally in town sites and suburbs, and an Unimproved Valuation (UV) is applied in rural areas.
GRV represents the gross annual rental income that a property might reasonably expect to earn annually if it were rented. This amount is determined by Landgate or the Valuer General and is generally re-evaluated every three years.
Each year, prior to the approval of the Council budget for the next financial year, the Statement of Objects and Reason for Differential Rates will be published, and at this time submissions are invited from any elector or ratepayer with respect to the proposed differential rates, and any related matters.
How can I object against a valuation of my property?
Valuations of properties within the Shire have been supplied by the Valuer General, which is the responsibility of the State Government. The Shire has no say in how your property is valued.
If you wish to object against a valuation, you must lodge your complaint with the Valuer General or at the Shire Offices within 42 days of receiving a Rate Assessment Notice. The lodgement of an objection does not alter your obligation to pay the full amount of rates by the date specified in your assessment notice.
How do I notify change of ownership of property?
It is essential to notify the Shire of your change of address or change of ownership in writing via email or mail whenever a change of details occurs. Under the provisions of the Local Government Act 1995, when a person (whether as principal or agent) sells or disposes of land, the owner/agent must advise the Shire in writing within 21 days of the change in ownership, giving full details of the purchaser. To make the relevant changes, please email [email protected]
What is the Emergency Services Levy?
The Emergency Services Levy (ESL) supports more than 26,000 fire and rescue, marine, and emergency services volunteers and funds over 1,600 firefighters. Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) staff provide 24/7 fire and emergency assistance across WA.
Your ESL contribution is included within your local government rates notice. To learn more about how your ESL is calculated, including information on the different ESL rates, limits and concessions, download the ESL flyer or visit dfes.wa.gov.au/esl
Am I eligible for pensioner/senior rate subsidies?
Eligible pensioners/seniors who wish to avail themselves of the Government’s rate rebate scheme must pay the required portion of the rates within the particular year for which the rates were levied. The Government will then pay the balance of the rates to the Council. Please note that Council’s Rubbish Charge is not subject to the rebate and must be paid in full.
If you are looking to claim the rebate, you are required by the Government to present your current concession card. If you are a pensioner who does not wish to take advantage of the rebate, you may continue to defer payment of rates as in the past. This deferment option is not available for seniors.
For more information, please contact the Rates Officer.