What are rates?

    Form of Taxation available for Councils to levy against owners of property within their communities. Rates are calculated by the value of the property x a Rate in the Dollar. (RID)

    What is a valuation?

    The value of a property provided by the Valuer General. The value reflects the recent sale of properties of similar type in the area.

    What is equity?

    Equity= FAIRNESS 

    Equity is about FAIRNESS, it's about making sure people get fair and impartial treatment. 

    What is a rating review?

    A rating review looks at the distribution of rates and how this is structured. Comparisons are then made with alternative structures to see if the distribution is equitable in terms of capital values, capacity to pay and other influencing factors. 

    What are the ratable land categories?

    The Land Use types in accordance with the Local Government Regulations and as determined by the Valuer General are:

    • Residential

    • Commercial (Shop)

    • Commercial (Office)

    • Commercial (Other)

    • Industrial (Light)

    • Industrial (Other)

    • Primary Production

    • Vacant Land

    • Other

    • Marina Berth

    What are differential rates?

    Differential rates are where councils set different rates in the dollar for different categories of rateable land. For example, farm land, various categories of residential property or commercial/industrial properties will each pay a higher or lower rate in the dollar.

    What is a general rate?

    All types of property are rated at the same rate in the dollar (RID) multiplied by the value of the property