Ararat Rural City Council has received the 2025 General Valuation Report, an annual reporting process that determines the value of properties across Ararat Rural City.
The Valuer-General Victoria is responsible for revaluing all rateable and non-rateable leviable properties in the municipality each year, and appointed Mr Peter Wigg of Wigg and Partners to conduct the valuation.
The Valuer-General will audit the valuations to confirm the figures reported are true and correct. Once approved by the Minister for Planning under the Valuation of Land Act 1960, these valuations will be used by Council to raise rates for the 2025/26 financial year, as well as calculate the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund.
The report found that residential property valuations have decreased by 2.12%, compared to 2024 valuations, whilst rural valuations have decreased by 3.58%. Commercial property valuations have increased by 1.98%, and industrial valuations have increased by 0.11%.
"Compared to previous years, we've continued to see notable easing in this year's valuation report," says Ararat Rural City Council CEO, Dr Tim Harrison.
"We're seeing some reductions in valuations for residential and rural properties, with some minor increases in industrial and commercial properties. Overall, these figures suggest the market is finding a stable footing."
Objecting to a valuation
If you disagree with the valuations on your rates notice, you may object. Objections must happen within two months of the date of issue on the notice and should be submitted online.
Objectors must still pay rates by the due date. If you don't pay your rates by the due date, you may be charged interest on amounts owing.
After receiving an objection, the valuer will discuss the valuations with you. You will be advised of your objection outcome in writing. If an amendment to the valuation is recommended, this must be approved by the Valuer General. If you are not satisfied with the decision, you may appeal to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).
